I just love an elopment, and this was my first for 2012.  Denise and Gary were such a lovely couple and came to Perth with their gorgeous young boys, Finlay and Dexter.  They wanted to holiday here but decided some time ago they would like nothing better than to be married in the warm Western Australian sunshine and contacted me out of the blue just over a month ago.  Their friends and family at home in the UK are going to be so surprised when they hear the news!

Their ceremony was witnessed by just their Perth friends Jo and Steve..... plus the children, a few people walking their dogs, assorted beachgoers and some families enjoying picnics in the early evening sunshine.  By 5.00pm a light sea breeze had cooled the typically blistering conditions in Perth this time of year and a little shade was provided by the three pine trees on the grass at Watermans Beach.

Denise wore an elegant white dress with pearl detailing on the neck and a simple hair accessory.  Gary was 'smart casual' in fitting with the location in his white shirt and beige shorts and Finlay and Dexter wore matching shirts and shorts.  We all took photos of course although I was tempted to engage the services of a nearby mum with what looked like a pretty sophisticated camera!

Playing tourist

It was wonderful to meet with Gary and Denise and their children after planning their ceremony via email and telephone in the past few weeks.  We spent some time together a couple of days before the ceremony, at Watermans Beach and Hillarys Boat Harbour and after hearing they had seen kangaroos at the zoo, I figured a little drive through the Pinnaroo Memorial Park was in order.  It's such a peaceful place and honestly, it's a great place to see kangaroos!  They were lying on the grass in the shade, some mums with joeys in pouches and they hardly moved when we all got out of the car to say hello to them!

Watermans Beach

I just adore Watermans.  Not only is it 'our family's beach' and a fave for our young children with its protected lagoon, but has a couple of  great options for ceremonies.  The grassed area is easily accessible with some shade and a playground close by for the children.  The beach itself is gorgeous and the water is crystal clear, with a small cove surrounded by limestone rocks.  Weddings need to be booked through the City of Stirling.