Ben and Shanaye in the Palm Gown
Ben and Shanaye exchanged vows in Port Stephens, Australia in a romantic garden party setting that beautifully reflected their intimate and relaxed style.
Finding Their Forever
Following many awkward stares across the staff room table, Shanaye and Ben’s love story began. Shanaye was completing her teaching placement at the same school Ben was already teaching. One afternoon, as they were both leaving for the day, they bumped into each other, and their subtle stares blossomed into a conversation. It left Shanaye with butterflies in her stomach, and she found herself hoping that something more would come from it. Once Shanaye’s placement had ended, the staff organised to go out for dinner and drinks, and after a few too many glasses of wine, the couple ended up sitting across from each other and talking for hours. From then on, they spent every day of the school holidays with each other, and just three months later, Shanaye moved in with Ben.
Shanaye loves the way Ben makes her feel so safe. “I trust him with my life. I know he will love me unconditionally and do anything to make me happy,” she shares. Beyond the safety and comfort he provides, Shanaye also appreciates Ben’s incredible sense of humour. Even after five years, his jokes still make her laugh as if she were hearing them for the first time
Under the Hawaiian Sun
Shanaye and Ben travelled to Hawaii to witness Ben’s best friend marry his sweetheart. They arrived on the stunning island of Kauai about a week before the wedding, eager to soak in the beauty and relaxation the island had to offer. Little did Shanaye know that this trip would become one of the most memorable moments of her life. One morning, Ben woke Shanaye up early and suggested they hike up a nearby mountain. Although not exactly thrilled at the prospect of an early morning hike, Shanaye got dressed and decided to go along with Ben's spontaneous plan. They had hired a convertible to explore the island, and as they were driving, Ben casually mentioned looking out for a nice beach to stop at and maybe grab a coffee.
They soon arrived at Poipu Beach Park around 6 a.m., just as the sun began to rise. The beach was tranquil and almost deserted, with only a few early risers enjoying the morning calm. Shanaye stood admiring the ocean, and as she turned around, Ben was down on one knee. “I was so excited; I just remember screaming “yes” and reaching out for a big hug and kiss,” Shanaye reminisces.
A Romantic Garden Party Wedding in Port Stephens, Australia
Shanaye and Ben’s wedding took place at Heaven Gardens in Port Stephens, NSW, perfectly capturing the laid-back style they both had envisioned. The DIY nature of the venue allowed them the freedom to bring their unique vision to life, with the ability to choose their guests and create their dream wedding style in an intimate atmosphere. Their garden party wedding featured stunning greenery and romantic floral arrangements that set the scene for their special day. The ceremony itself was a highlight for the couple, with how the celebrant beautifully shared their love story in a way that felt deeply personal. “We held hands and stared into each other’s eyes, making promises that would bind us for life. It was pretty special,” the bride highlights.
The Versatility of Palm
Shanaye fell in love with the versatility of Palm, with four straps to choose from, including the flexibility to be worn strapless. “It hugged my body beautifully and made me feel like a princess,” the bride shares. Her experience at our Sydney bridal boutique was both supportive and accommodating, which she was able to share with her entire bridal party. The Sydney manager provided the bride with styling tips and advice, choosing to complement the Palm wedding dress with our romantic Fleur Veil, which made saying ‘yes’ to the dress a seamless experience.
