Weddings

James and Nicky’s Boracay Island Wedding

Words by Hannah Pronesti / Images by Beck Rocchi
January 27, 2016

Paradise? Tick. Gorgeous, loved up couple? Tick. Vera Wang? Double tick. James and Nicky’s wedding ticks all the boxes when it comes to an idyllic island love-fest. With 65 of their closest family and friends in tow, the pair took to the tiny island of Boracay for an intimate destination wedding and we just can’t get enough of their gorgeous images by Beck Rocchi.

Crisp and white were keywords for this couple and with its contrasting sandy beaches, colourful huts and gritty-but-charming neighbourhoods, Boracay made for a culturally rich backdrop.

A venue as luxe as the Shangri La Boracay needs little help in the looks department, but Boracay Weddings ensured the garden was superbly styled and the tables laden with green foliage and lush white flowers. The Shangri La was responsible for the family-style fresh seafood feast and with the rocky peninsula and clear blue waters nearby, James and Nicky had the paradiso vibe down-pat.

Philippines destination wedding at Shangri La Boracay / Photography by Beck Rocchi

Having stumbled upon the tropical gardens and beach backyard of the Shangri La Boracay on a previous holiday, Nicky admits to having immediately envisaged their wedding there – even though she and James weren’t engaged at the time. Nothing wrong with planning ahead, we say!

James channelled a little Leo - circa Great Gatsby - in a crisp white Oscar Hunt tux jacket, with his groomsmen looking every bit as dapper.

We’ll admit we are a little jealous of Nicky’s incredible Vera Wang gown, but envy aside, this exotic beauty made a truly gorgeous bride with maids in tow wearing dusky pink numbers by Rodeo Show.

A beachside celebration wouldn’t be complete without some chilled tunes and acoustic duo, Blondie and Le Fro were happy to provide. “They knew exactly the atmosphere that we were trying to create and nailed it!” Says Nicky.

Dusky pink bridesmaid dresses by Rodeo Show

It’s always nice to see friends and fam pitching in, but James’ bro Simon went the extra mile with his contribution – literally. “Sim carried out the six months training to become a registered celebrant whilst living in Afghanistan and flew to Boracay via Australia, to knock over the paperwork.” James tells us proudly. “This had to be one of the most amazing moments in the wedding having someone so close conducting the ceremony.”

Nicky and James confess to being camera-shy, but Beck Rocchi managed to capture them looking cool, calm and collected. “ Beck is out of this world!” They say, “She definitely knows how to make you feel comfortable and most importantly, natural. Her bubbly and easy-going personality makes you feel so at ease and relaxed.”