blessings in disguise.

Sarah + Ben

T H U R S D A Y  3 1  M A R C H  2 0 1 1

 
In 2009, Sarah was all set to make a big move overseas. While she was out celebrating her upcoming departure, she met Ben. The pair exchanged details at the end of the night, but as Sarah was due to leave the country in just a few weeks, neither expected their chance encounter to lead to anything serious.

A few days later, fate stepped in to change everyone's plans. Sarah's UK VISA was denied as a result of the deepening recession in Europe, she lost her airfare and travel plans, but gained a soulmate, husband and a beautiful daughter.

Sarah and her bridesmaids all wore custom-made gowns by local Brisbane designer Taree Birse, a friend of the bride. Her strapless gown featured layer upon layer of delicately ruched silk chiffon, just perfect for a beach wedding. The bridesmaid's gowns were a gorgeous watermelon colour, while the flower girls wore white tutus. Byron Butcher from 'House of Glamour' did all the girl's makeup, while the hairstyling was provided by another of the bride's friends, Holly Murray. The boys kept it simple in short sleeved black shirts and gray pants from Tarocash

The beach ceremony was simple, short and sweet, Sarah walked down the aisle to Israel Kamakawiwo’ole's 'Somewhere over the Rainbow’ before the pair exchanged their own vows in front of around 60 of their close friends and family. The whole wedding then headed to the reception venue, The Lady, conveniently moored just across the road at Marina Mirage, while the wedding party made the most of the beach and setting sun for some beautiful photos.

















The bride and groom arrived in style to the reception venue, pulling up by gondola to the back steps of the boat, just as the sun set.

Photography by Shirley Hans