We’ve decided that Laura and Ben could probably write a guide on how to elope; that’s how incredible their nuptials were. Yes, the photos (taken by the talented duo that is Lilac in Hand) are nothing short of stunning, however it’s the couple’s memories that really made this wedding something special. “The whole day was perfect,” they tell. “We had plenty of time to enjoy breakfast in the morning, got ready at a leisurely pace, and we drove to the beach together playing our favourite songs. We spent the day doing things we love, and by keeping it so simple, we were able to take in and experience every moment.”
Laura and Ben shared all of the details with us, including some very wise snippets of advice that we think you’ll want to read, so scroll on for more…
THE INSPO “We took a modern approach to our wedding day. We wanted to throw every tradition out the window, do something extremely intimate, and spend the whole day together outside in the sunshine. The vibe was centred around our idea of a perfect day and the feeling you get when you’re on holiday – you’ve spent the whole day in the sun, you come home in the early evening, you shower, and you feel so calm, happy, clean and beautiful. When we were getting ready for our evening ceremony, this is exactly how we felt.”
THE DRESS “I [Laura] wanted to stay away from anything traditional. I knew that I wanted a two piece, an open back with dramatic sleeves, and for it to be something I could wear again. Brooke Tyson is in New Zealand, so she sent lots of videos and images to show me the top during the design process – bearing in mind that this was only two weeks before our wedding! She was amazing, and I cannot wait to wear the top again when we celebrate with our friends and family in England.”
MEMORABLE MOMENT “Laura’s sister, Emily, and my brother, Tom, each sent our celebrant readings to be included in our wedding ceremony as a surprise. They are both back in England and it was so special to hear what they had written for us.”
A WORD OF ADVICE “Remember that this isn’t anybody else’s wedding; it’s uniquely yours! This is your time to be selfish – get married in the way that you want, wear the outfit that you want to wear, plan the day around things you both love to do, and don’t succumb to the pressure that society, your family or friends place on to you. Remember why you’re getting married and eliminate anything from your day that will take away from your joy. When you look back in years to come you will only remember how you felt, so make sure that feeling is happy, relaxed and present, above all else.”
STANDOUT VENDORS “We found ourselves surrounded by the most beautiful women; the ladies who did my flowers [Chill Flowers], the owners of our accommodation, our celebrant [Alix the Celebrant], my top designer [Brooke Tyson Ritual], and of course our photographer Jess [Lilac in Hand], whom we met with many times before the day. Dylan, Jess’s partner, was the other photographer, and although not a woman, he was absolutely incredible on the day too! We feel really happy to have been able to support so many women-owned and small businesses.”
Laura and Ben’s wedding was originally featured in our 2021 Real Wedding Special, and because our readers are so fab, we’re currently treating you all to a free copy when you purchase Real Wedding Special Volume 8. Just remember to add both to cart and use the discount code DOUBLETROUBLE at the checkout! But first…
CONTRIBUTING VENDORS Photographer Lilac In Hand Florist Chill Flowers Ceremony & Reception Berry Bay Celebrant Alix The Celebrant Rings RUUSK (bride), James Thredgold (groom) THE BRIDE Top Brooke Tyson Ritual Skirt Bo and Luca Bridal Boutique Your Art Bridal Earrings The White Files THE GROOM Shirt Country Road Pants Trenery