This holiday wedding in Australia’s dreamy Whitsundays region brought a family together and created a lifetime of memories.
Date: 08.04.2023 Photos: Timeless Images by Vanessa Venue: Villa Botanica
It’s not often we hear of a groom booking the wedding venue before his proposal. But for Simon, the stars aligned so perfectly that he locked in exclusive Whitsundays estate Villa Botanica prior to popping the question to his love, Victoria. A private helicopter flight to Whitsunday Beach then set the scene for a romantic proposal and a dream destination wedding.
The Melbourne-based pair had always wanted to extend their celebration into a holiday-style event. With family and friends flying in from Melbourne and the UK, it meant everyone could share time together before and after the official event. And where better to catch up with loved ones than the holiday haven of The Whitsundays?
After a site viewing at Villa Botanica, the couple left most preparations in the hands of the venue’s experienced wedding team, who “helped arrange everything flawlessly,” says Victoria. “The best advice we were given was that everything would come together perfectly. And it did!” They also had a little local magic behind the lens in the form of Vanessa Dale (Timeless Images by Vanessa) after being inspired by the photographer’s stunning style.
When the big day arrived, with Simon awaiting her in the Ceremony Pavilion, Victoria made an unforgettable entrance in a shimmering Berta Bridal gown. What else would you expect from a bride who once performed as Elsa from Frozen!
Vows exchanged and spirits high, the Seadeck then beckoned everyone to a balmy evening reception — the open-air space perfect for soaking up the tropical ambience and celebrating under the stars. Guests were treated to exquisite wining and dining, fireworks, and … a surprise flashmob. “Our entire bridal party had learnt a choreographed dance,” says Victoria. “It blew everyone away!”
When asked about her most precious memory, Victoria evokes the beauty and emotion of the day. “Wearing my dress and leaving a trail of glitter behind me as I married my best friend,” she says. “I cannot even begin to put into words how much I love Simon and our friends and family. It was the best day of our lives.”
And the newlyweds’ advice for others planning a holiday wedding? “Make sure you have a great team of suppliers that work well together,” says Victoria, saving special thanks for their ‘camera crew’ of Vanessa and videographer Phil from Riptide Creative. “They were amazing to work with: even our bridal party commented on how incredible they were. The ultimate dream team!”
For the happy couple, ‘I do’ was also part of a broader celebration. “Everyone has commented that the whole wedding was spectacular,” says Victoria. “And the best part of a destination wedding was spending quality time with loved ones rather than just one day.”
This sentiment flowed into a week-long honeymoon at qualia on Hamilton Island. Some of Victoria’s close family from the UK were also staying on Hamilton Island, meaning they could all celebrate a belated 80th birthday with a beloved grandparent.
The icing on the cake.
DREAM TEAM
Guests: 80 // Photography: Timeless Images by Vanessa // Videography: Riptide Creative // Venue: Villa Botanica, The Whitsundays // Gown: Berta Bridal // Makeup: Lauriely Taylor MUA // Planner: Linda at Villa Botanica // Catering: Aquava Boutique Catering // Decor: TP Events & Styling Whitsunday // Celebrant: Deanna McKeowen // Flowers: Sofi & Flora // Fireworks: Skylighter Fireworks
