Amber and Danny tracked me down on the Internet. They’re from Lightening Ridge but thought, “Hey, why not have a blast and tie the knot in Newcastle?” They weren’t picky about the date, time or location, so after some chitchat, we all agreed that an evening beach wedding with sand between our toes was the way to go. They were all about finding a photographer who could keep things chill yet fun. I knew my friend Ell from Rogue would be the perfect match. When she threw out the idea of a sunset Bar Beach elopement, we were all in.
It was a freakin’ stunning Thursday evening in September. The main beach was swarming with Novocastrians soaking up the sun. So we decided to veer left around the headland and strolled a bit. The farther we walked, the more deserted it became until we hit a point where we couldn’t go any further. And bam! We stumbled upon the most breathtaking piece of beach with waves crashing around us and a massive cliff in the background. The setting was so perfect, it could’ve been lifted straight out of a postcard.
As the sun began to set, we formed a circle. I had some Zoom chats with Amber + Danny in the lead up to the wedding, and I got to know them pretty well, so I put together a super personalised story about their love. I think it caught them off guard; they didn’t expect to laugh and cry as much as they did.
‘Holding space’ is a skill I’ve honed over the years, and it’s something I genuinely enjoy. There’s a certain magic in helping people connect with their emotions during significant moments and encouraging them not to hold back. Elopements, in particular, offer a special chance for couples to be vulnerable with each other, embracing the raw and honest emotions that come with it.
After Danny + Amber’s Bar Beach elopement ceremony, we decided to spice things up by taking a different route back to the car. We embarked on this rocky path that wound up the side of the cliff ⛰️ feeling like true adventurers. The kids, of all ages, were absolutely loving scrambling up those rocks with their bare feet 👣
Once we reached the top, we all just plopped down on the grass, basking in that relaxed and content feeling. It was like a wave of pure happiness washed over us. We ditched the signing table and did the paperwork right on our laps, and then we raised a shot glass for a toast, just as darkness started creeping in 🥃
Saying goodbye to this wonderful family wasn’t easy. They showered me with thanks and hugs, and I couldn’t help but feel a warm sense of satisfaction. Knowing I’d not only met but exceeded their hopes for their wedding day, left me feeling pretty darn good as I headed home 💘
Big weddings with a whole bunch of guests can be a real production, with every little detail meticulously needing to be planned. But when it comes to elopements, it’s a whole different story. Danny and Amber fully embraced the freedom that comes with eloping and just let the day unfold naturally, and boy, did it turn out spectacularly ✨
So, if you’re looking for a wedding experience that’s all about authenticity and emotion, why not consider a Bar beach elopement with me (and Ell from Rogue Weddings) 💕
I’m a big fan of black and white photos, but it’s weird; I hardly ever put them on my social media. I feel like they’re better suited for decorating real walls.
The thing about black and white pics is they really amp up the feels. They make you tune in more to the emotions and the stories behind the shot.
By peeling away the colour, you are left with the pure, unfiltered essence of the moment.
Looking at black and white photographs almost feels like you were there when the photograph was taken. Do you agree?
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