They wanted to travel in style and in what was Australia’s first-ever bridal Kombi convoy, Becki McDonnell and James Huse did exactly that.
The English-born couple, 33 and 34 respectively, chose their new home of Manly, Sydney to hold their beach chic wedding with an intimate guest list of 35 on January 4, 2014. “As we had to travel 45 minutes up to Whale Beach [after the ceremony], we wanted to do it in style,” says bride Becki. “Why have one Kombi when you can have five?” she laughs.
Kombi Celebrations supplied the transport inside which Becki and James left their guests little surprises. “In each Kombi we left our guests their own little beach bag which had personalised thongs and stubby holders, plus a fan for the journey,” recalls Becki.
Family and friends were greeted at Whale Beach with a vintage-adorned gazebo boasting hanging florals, bunting, lilac paper straws, flowers and bird cages – just to name a few elements. “There was also beach cricket and bowls for our guests of all ages to enjoy,” says Becki.
Later in the evening the reception continued at Ripples Whale Beach where the bohemian vintage themed was carried over with hessian table runners, amber bottles and rustic timber. Lilac featured prominently, matched with pretty pinks and soft peaches.
“For each part of the day we wanted to create different feelings for our guests – so each location had its very own experience.”
Becki’s Vinilo gown by Pronovias was off-white with a flowing silk pearl bottom, purchased from Sydney boutique Marry Me Bridal. Her headpiece and jewellery were by Stephanie Browne Australia.
“We wanted to achieve a soft and pretty mix of florals with a lot of interest,” says Becki of her bouquet. “It worked well with our laid back beach wedding.”
Ripples Whale Beach created the ideal atmosphere for the beach chic wedding. “The reception was classy, stunning, chic and personal. Everyone was looked after,” praises Becki.
The couple will return to their homeland of the UK in June to celebrate with guests who were unable to attend the wedding.
Photos courtesy of Creek Street Photography.
