It was around about 5 or so years ago now that I had crossed paths with Elizabeth, and ever since we’ve always stayed in touch. So when she had contacted me informing me of not only the amazing proposal from the man of her dreams... but the wedding location every girl dreams of, she asked me to accompany them both on their journey to becoming husband and wife. As a wedding photographer/videographer with the aspiration to capture their true essence of love, I found myself planning my next big adventure to Fiji.
The excitement was overwhelming, being provided this amazing opportunity to not only be shooting in tropical paradise but to also have an adequate amount of time to spend with the love-struck couple prior to their big day enabled me to get to know them both, gaining a meaningful connection which in turn formed a great bond. Having this time to engage, connect and embrace the couple's love gives me a deeper sense of connection when capturing those precious unforgettable moments.
At first, the task of doing both photo and video seemed like a difficult and extremely challenging endeavour. Only completing this a handful of times, as you could imagine, I was hesitant. After communicating this concern, we had come to the conclusion that we had two major factors on our side—both time and a limited number of guests. These two components in turn made this exercise much more achievable. Discussing that sufficient time could be taken, also enabling me to produce quality content, even if some had needed a few shots... we had the time!
I had decided to spend a few days on the mainland of Fiji to explore some of the more popular wedding venues such as the Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort which had a great chapel named The House of Love—so I really look forward to booking a wedding there. The Intercontinental Fiji Resort & Spa offers exotic island wedding and honeymoon packages, and I also got to visit the Sheraton Fiji Resort, which was great because I love shooting at the Sheraton Grand Mirage Gold Coast.
After scoping out the wonderfully exotic island of Fiji, my location in which I had decided to stay was the DoubleTree by Hilton. The amazing Fijian service was impeccable—they didn't hesitate to go above and beyond, creating such a peaceful and relaxing environment for each and every guest. On the journey of a lifetime, I had decided to face one of my biggest fears—getting in front of the camera myself to start my very own J’adore video blog.
Many people tell me that I should share my many stories and adventures. Others ask me how I got to where I am today… and my answer never changes. I followed my passion for photography, combined it with my determination for success, and now just sit back watching it take me all over the world fulfilling all of my lifelong ambitions. I figured that blogging my adventures as well as filming them would be a beneficial way to share my journeys with all those interested in tagging along.
Next stop for me was Plantation Island, which is around about an hour from Nadi, travelled to by boat. On arrival I received the traditional Fijian welcoming featuring a guitarist accompanied by some talented singers welcoming us to the island. Not long after arriving I decided to head straight over to the Lomani Island Resort to meet both Lizzie and Zach. Straight away we began our adventures together—scenic bike riding, paddleboarding across crystal clear waters, and a breathtaking stroll along Lomani beachfront, finishing up our journey with a relaxed conversation swaying in the hammocks. Taking full advantage of the beautiful energy surrounding them, I got them to answer just a few questions in which I had prepared earlier to assist in telling their story in front of the camera.
Good quality audio is priceless when it comes to couples telling their stories, helping the people watching to really connect. Day 2 was the wedding. I met first with Zach to cover his preparation. Zach truly is one of the nicest guys I have ever had the pleasure of crossing paths with. As long as everyone else around him is happy, he is happy—a rare quality to find in not only one person but also their partner as well. Lizzie obtaining this exact same trait—they really just were the perfect match for one another. Being with them in this special time, it was like nothing else mattered. The love they shared and the love you felt just being in their presence was truly breathtaking. I enjoyed watching them both get so lost in each other.
They only had a handful of family that attended, keeping it nice and simple, making room for all the love to flourish through the air as this special day took place. I then went over to spend those few special moments with the bride before her life changed forever and she was to become Mrs Hansford. I find these moments with my brides before they get married to be very special and often find that a few well-placed genuine words of wisdom help as well as building that connection.
Both deciding that their dream day would take place in the backyard of their villa at Lomani Island Resort, as they'd just fallen in love with its beautiful scenery at first sight. The ceremony itself was breathtaking—it was a pure reflection of the beautiful love and passion they shared for each other. I mentioned to the couple not long after that seeing the love they shared for each other most certainly brought a big man to tears. For me, I feel as though this is one of my biggest assets—being able to feel those raw emotions as well as having the passion for love myself. I believe this works to my advantage, enabling me to tell their stories and share those precious emotions with others. After the ceremony had concluded, myself and the family all went over for lunch, accompanied again by two local musicians entertaining the group.
Our bride and groom shared their first dance together as husband and wife. After having a chance to cool down, we then spent the afternoon down by the rocks on the beach getting creative together. I really felt like I nailed a few of the images. Showing them to the bride and groom, we all got very excited over the shots captured.
Coming into Day 3—my last day with the couple—we decided to make the most of our remaining time together and went to go check out the surrounding forest, ending this beautiful morning down by the ocean, which I believed to be some of my most favourable moments. It truly was an amazing experience getting to spend this special time with the couple and their loved ones in such a beautiful place. I felt very privileged to have had the opportunity to capture the true love they shared with each other.
If you have gotten this far—props to you! I would love to have you engage with your comments and thoughts. I am currently on my way to my next big destination: Costa Rica. Again lucky enough to have an amazing connection with my next upcoming couple, I cannot wait to continue my epic journey.
