Picture this: You awake on matrimony-morning, and every little detail that lies ahead is a surprise that you and your lover get to discover together. Sounds fun! It’s like a wedding and Christmas rolled into one! It might not be for everyone, but it’s the stress-free approach Jess and Aron took, and they’d happily do it again! From photography to flowers, they “left it all to The Elopement Collective” with a small but mighty talented team in tow, including legend with a lens Pearce Brennan, wedding-movie magicians Bulb Creative, and The Lillipillian, who put together those bloomin’ gorgeous florals.

Completing their day with a fancy dinner (and a rare kid-free moment), the duo enjoyed an evening 100 per cent devoted to appreciating each other’s company. Jess and Aron’s intimate Sydney elopement really reminds us of what this thing is all about—two people celebrating their love and shared awesomeness together. Scroll down to hear from Jess and Aron and admire their stunning elopement album and film.

THE PROPOSAL “I had been trying to do it for a long time but chickened out so many times before. I eventually told our son about it and he helped me set up a picnic on our back deck with champagne and a cheese platter. Having just woken up from a nap, Jess came out very surprised, still in pyjamas. I was on one knee with our son standing next to me. It was very special. [We were engaged] for approximately two years. We thought it would have been longer, but in the early hours of the morning, Jess was up with our newborn daughter and saw a post from The Elopement Collective, who had a call-out for couples who hoped to get married in December. The location was in Sydney, which isn’t too far from us. Jess had been in love with their stuff for a long time, so we jumped at the chance.”

FAVE DETAILSThe Lillipillian made the most stunning flower arch. It was the most magical touch. It blew me away. It had a different shape that made it so interesting with the most beautiful colours and textures. The florist didn’t know me, and I didn’t pick any of it, yet somehow, it was the most beautiful arch I had ever seen.”

MEMORABLE MOMENT (Jess) “Our wedding night was the first night away from our children in years, so having the ceremony and then going to a nice restaurant afterwards made me feel completely connected. It was the best way to spend our wedding, completely stress-free.” (Aron) “We originally decided not to do vows, but with a little sway from our celebrant, Josh Withers, we changed our minds. The vows were hands down the best part and something I’ll never forget.”

STANDOUT VENDORSPearce, our photographer, was so relaxed and polite. He had his work cut out for him working with two introverts. We even asked at one point how awkward we looked through the lens. His reply was that on a scale of awkward people, we were the least awkward, which was very reassuring. All our vendors were excellent and perfect in every way.”

Getting set to elope yourself? Have a forage around our Real Weddings for plenty of Inspiration from couples who have been there and done that. Those unforgettable florals catch your attention? You can find The Lillipillian on the Hello May Directory here. Even if you’re planning a guest-free occasion, maybe you still want some sentimental video evidence so loved ones can relive it with you? Bulb Creative has got you covered; say hi here.

CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Pearce Brennan Cinematographer Bulb Creative Florist The Lillipillian Celebrant Josh Withers (The Elopement Collective) THE BRIDE Bridal Gown & Veil Designer Made With Love Bridal Shoes Kmart Accessories Aje Hair Boutique Blondes Makeup Kayla Clifford Fragrance Dior THE GROOM Sui Rundle Tailoring Shoes R.M. Williams Grooming Gianni Erina