After meeting on the dating app Bumble and hitting it off instantly on their first date in Cabarita, it would only be fitting Jess and Gab would also say I Do on Cabarita Headland! Featuring boho vibes and a sequin Kimono dress, this NSW beach wedding was laidback with hint of sparkle, captured flawlessly by Tessa Shannon.

The Proposal

No big fuss but lots of happy tears, their engagement may not have been the classic roses and candles story, but Jess admits she wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. “Gabriel had just gotten back from work and was being exceptionally quiet, so I was a bit worried what was going on,” explains Jess. “A few moments later he began to cry and told me he wanted to spend the rest of his life with me. At this point we were both in tears and Gabriel asked if I would be down to get married!”

Photography by Tessa Shannon

With none other than Tessa Shannon behind the lens, known for her authentic, raw style of photography, it’s no surprise Jess and Gab were super impressed with both their photos and Tessa’s organisation/professionalism. “Could not recommend this wonderful woman more, she went above and beyond for us and captured our wedding perfectly; I could not have asked for better photos,” says Jess.

Bride and Groom Attire

Jess had little trouble finding her dream dress after spotting the Ciara Sequin Kimono dress from ASOS all over Instagram. “I knew I wanted a dress that would look elegant but feel comfortable at the same time, and this dress did all that and more for me!” says Jess. Finishing her look with dewy, bronze makeup by her sister (Glowgetter by Taylor), a loose textured bun (Foxs Lane Styling) and dried flowers by Seven Blooms, Jess stayed true to her laidback style but with a touch more glam. Next to hubby Gabriel sporting brown vintage-style Politix pants and Timberlands, these lovebirds were the perfect mix of stylish and effortless.

The Ceremony at Cabarita Headland

Standing on a muted floral rug on top of Cabarita Headland, approximately 40 close friends and family gathered to witness the couple’s personalised vows. Only enlisting the help of Jess’ aunty/mum who picked out their rug, the stunning backdrop of Cabarita Beach meant almost no styling was necessary. Simple and sweet, the ceremony wrapped up with friends and family throwing rose petals in the air. “We both shed a lot of happy tears, it was perfect, wouldn’t change a thing!” says Jess.

The Reception at Babalou Weddings and Events

Keeping to their beachside theme, Jess and Gab chose Babalou Weddings and Events in Kingscliff to host their reception. Unfortunately, with international travel restrictions, a lot of the couple’s family and friends couldn’t make it. Luckily, many still managed to offer their congratulations and advice through surprise video recordings played during the reception, a highlight of the couple’s day. “It was so special, especially for Gabriel whose parents could not make it from Brazil,” remembers Jess. Bringing in the night with live music thanks to friend Lucas Herrington, delicious food, drinks and a dance floor, all in all the couple say their reception not only looked gorgeous but was also a whole lot of fun!