A sandy aisle in a tropical paradise sealed the deal for Kelly and Ian, who followed their holiday wedding dreams to Fiji’s Plantation Island Resort. “We are from Australia and South Africa — and live in Canada,” Kelly explains. “We wanted to have the wedding on neutral ground, and a location where it would be fun for our guests to travel to. The Plantation Island Resort was unique, tropical, and it had a sand bar!”
Positioned on the west coast of Malolo Lailai island, the resort’s 23 acres of swaying palms, lush gardens, and white-sand beaches created the perfect setting for this pair of nature-lovers and their 24 guests. The turquoise waters of the lagoon only added to the magic, creating a dreamy backdrop. “Everyone felt so special to be invited to such an intimate wedding in a location that was just a little bit different,” says Kelly. “Our most special moment would be sharing our vows on the sand bar, with our loved ones watching.”
The bride wore a chic Made with Love Bridal gown in luxurious French crepe while the groom captured the day’s stylish yet relaxed vibe with his suit and frangipani boutonnière. Getting to and from their sun-kissed slice of sand also delivered a funny moment for the couple — they were each picked up and carried from the sand bar to the boat to keep their wedding shoes dry!
Festivities stayed on the waterfront with a romantic sunset photocall and a delicious buffet dinner. “It was secluded and private,” says Kelly of the beach soirée. “We enjoyed all the food, particularly the seafood!”
The couple credits the resort team with helping to create such an easy and memorable event in this glorious setting. “Go with the flow and don’t stress!” Kelly advises anyone crafting a similar experience. “It will all work out beautifully and come together on the day.” And the best part about planning a holiday-style event? “Lots of things! Minimal planning — it was a tick-and-flick sheet! We also LOVED not having to clean up at the end of the night or pack up decor items that would just end up as clutter in our house!”
The newlyweds made the most of the sublime location, enjoying a four-night ‘family-moon’ at Plantation Island Resort, with an official honeymoon in the works for later this year.
DREAM TEAM
Ceremony & reception location: Plantation Island Resort, Fiji | Photography: Nadi Bay Photography | Guests: 24 // Bridal gown: ‘Grayson’ by Made with Love Bridal // Wedding planner: Nirtika Maharaj at Plantation Island Resort, Fiji
