High school sweethearts get their dream day
The love and dedication of a pair of high school sweethearts adorned all of Fremantle on December 14, 2019 when Bek and Andrew said their vows to one another on that day.
The backstory of this super chilled out couple is that Bek and Andrew met when they were just 14 years old, and have been together for 12 years. I was honoured to be a part of their special day, and can honestly say it was really fun to be around them and the bridal party.
Each got ready at a separate location, with Bek and her two bridesmaids casually enjoying the morning by celebrating with glasses of champagne, finalising hair and make-up, and really giving in to the excitement building up.
There were some fantastic lighting opportunities for Bek’s pre-wedding photos, so it was only fair that I took advantage of the sunlight coming through the windows, the brightness of the high raked ceilings, and the curtains that gave full effect.
It helped even more than Bek always, at every turn, had a smile on her face.
Andrew also was a most chilled out groom, and breaking with tradition, he had best girl Kate by his side rather than a best man.
Even his unique suit showcased not only his personality perfectly, but the theme of the wedding, which would take place on white sand dunes on a scorching hot Perth day – over 40 degrees!
Coogee Beach set the tone for Bek and Andrew’s nuptials, and when I got there, the location was exquisite with a simple wooden archway filled with native flowers and greens; the colours not so bold as to take away the view from the ocean.
Guests began to arrive, and despite the heat, everyone braved the weather to witness the coming together of these two love birds, who really continued to look relaxed throughout the whole event.
And surprisingly, the sea breeze arrived just in time to give some relief in dropping the temperature down to about 33.
The bridal party arrived in a kombi van, and before we all knew it, the bride and her bridesmaids were coming onto the soft sand. The archway, where Andrew was waiting for Bek, was very picturesque; the symmetry working in my favour as I captured the happy couple declare their fidelity and love for one another. It was an intimate ceremony, and because it was set on the beach, I had an abundance of room to run around in to take as many angles as I possibly could so that Bek and Andrew had a variety in their photo choices.
Without a cloud in the sky, the backdrop for the photos was stunning.
Soon after, we all headed to Peace Park, near Coogee. With Bek’s love of the forest we managed to find a small piece of the location full of pine trees. What makes Peace Park so different is that it is full of small conifers that provide a dense forest-like appearance, perfect for what Bek and Andrew were looking for.
I really love working in outdoor areas like Peace Park because of the great expanse of space, angle opportunities, and textures that complement the newlyweds. Everyone finally relaxed enough for some all natural photos, and I could see they were really enjoying their time together.
Our second stop for bridal photos was Fremantle Port, where it was more just a photoshoot for the bridal party to let their hair down and muck around without worrying about what poses they needed to do for the camera.
There are lots of wide open spaces at the port, and an incredible amount of opportunities for images – especially when the sun is beginning to set for that time of day.
Before we knew it, it was time to head to Little Creatures Brewery’s The Deck for the reception, where the same Australian native flora theme was followed through. With plenty of room for guests to sit down and unwind, thanks to couches and throw pillows, the entire location was filled with laughter and celebratory conversations about Bek and Andrew, who I could see truly loved mingling with everyone (but with Andrew being a big cricket fan, he at times got away with sneakily live-streaming a cricket match on his phone!).
After some teary-speeches and a good meal, it was time for the cutting of the cake where the cake topper was custom made to represent the happy couple riding a bike together! It was then followed by a couple more speeches and finally the first dance.
Never have I seen a more delighted bride and groom! I wish Bek and Andrew all the best for their future together, in the beautiful outdoors, celebrating their lives as one.
Vendors and Suppliers:
Celebrant: Dilhari (Kiss Me You Fool)
Cake maker: Fondant Features
Ceremony Music: Jake and Lauren Music
Hair & MUA: Pretty Parlour
Florist: Boho Blooms Perth
Groom Suit: Terrace Men
Venue: Little Creatures
DJ: The Wedding Spinner
Videography: A New Union
Wedding Dress: Grace Loves Lace
Wedding Hire + Style: Elegant Chair Hire
Second Photographer: Mandy Bowler
