Set against the breathtaking cliffs of Alila Villas Uluwatu in Bali, Abigail and Shaun’s wedding was a stunning celebration of elegance and tropical charm. With panoramic ocean views, lush floral decor, and meticulously planned details, their day showcased the beauty of a destination wedding in one of the world’s most picturesque locations. From a meaningful ceremony framed by cascading white blooms to a lively reception filled with music, laughter, and thoughtful touches, every moment was crafted to create an unforgettable experience for their guests.
Location: Uluwatu, Bali
Style: Elegant, modern, tropical
Time of planning: 1 year
Setting: Villa
Season: Summer
Gate Crash
Honoring their Chinese tradition, Abigail and Shaun began their wedding with a Gate Crash. This custom, full of fun and laughter, involved challenges organized by the bride and her bridesmaids. Shaun and his groomsmen had to complete tasks before he could see his bride.
The games began with “Caterpillar Push-ups,” testing the groomsmen’s teamwork. The second challenge, “Sweet, Spicy, Sour,” involved coriander—a food Shaun dislikes. Despite his aversion, Shaun and his groomsmen powered through, showing great humor and determination.
Bridal Morning
After the Gate Crash, Abigail’s bridal preparation began with Sita Makeup creating a soft glam look and Toni styling her hair into a sleek bun. Together, they enhanced Abigail’s natural beauty and gave her a modern, timeless look.
For the ceremony, Abigail wore an exaggerated flower ball gown by Nicole and Felicia Couture, available at The Ivory Bridal boutique. The dress, part of the Fall Winter 2024 Collection, perfectly reflected her sophisticated vision as a bride.
Groom's Fashion
Shaun exuded timeless sophistication in a classic black tuxedo paired with a white shirt and a sharp black bow tie. His look, enhanced by sleek cufflinks and polished black shoes, perfectly complemented the elegance of the wedding setting. The addition of stylish sunglasses added a modern edge, effortlessly blending formality with a touch of personality.
First Look
Abigail and Shaun shared their emotional first look on the picturesque steps surrounded by lush greenery, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead. Shaun’s awe was evident as Abigail descended the stairs in her stunning gown, holding her delicate white bouquet.
Before heading to the ceremony, the couple joined their bridal party for a series of lively group photos with photographer Depth of Tales. Abigail’s bridesmaids, dressed in elegant sage-green gowns, and Shaun’s groomsmen, in sharp blue suits, added a vibrant touch to the pre-ceremony moments.
Ceremony
Shaun proposed under the snow in Norway in November, and their tropical wedding marked the perfect contrast to that wintry moment. After five years together, they brought their vision for a dream wedding to life.
The ceremony, decorated by AiLuoSi Decor, featured white flowers and personalized touches, including hand fans for guests. Held at the Cliff Edge Cabana, the venue’s breathtaking ocean views set the stage for an unforgettable event.
Guests were greeted with coconut drinks engraved with the couple’s initials while musicians from Alila performed. Shaun and his groomsmen entered in royal blue suits, followed by bridesmaids in elegant green dresses. Abigail, escorted by her father, walked down the aisle to “Can’t Help Falling in Love With You.” During their kiss, “You Are the Reason” played, adding to the emotional moment.
The ceremony concluded with a shower of rose petals and the release of doves, symbolizing love and peace. As these beautiful moments unfolded, the uplifting melody of “Viva La Vida” played in the background, adding an energetic and celebratory atmosphere to the end of the ceremony.
Private Moment
As the couple took a private moment together, their love was beautifully framed by the lush Bali landscape and soft golden light. The photographer from Depth of Tales masterfully used the natural sunlight to add a magical glow to the images, capturing the intimacy of the moment while playing with depth and angles. The blurred foregrounds and dreamy sun flares created an almost ethereal effect, making each frame look like a timeless piece of art. These thoughtful compositions showcased not only the couple’s connection but also the serene beauty of the venue, turning their private moments into stunning visual memories.
"With Bali's stunning backdrop, capturing Abigail and Shaun's photos was effortless."
Decor & Setting
The decor at Abigail and Shaun’s wedding was a spectacular combination of modern elegance and natural charm. Delicate florals in warm tones of peach, ivory, and blush adorned every space, from the “Til Death Do Us Party” statement wall to the ethereal welcome sign crafted with cascading blooms and candlelit accents.
The reception tables, draped in crisp white linens, were complemented by golden flatware, glassware with subtle metallic rims, and intricate floral arrangements that added depth and texture. Overhead, a canopy of twinkling fairy lights illuminated the evening, creating a magical atmosphere under the open sky.
"Embracing an Autumn theme, the decor exuded an elegant and warm ambiance."
Reception
Abigail and Shaun’s reception began with an enchanting sparkler entrance, where the couple was warmly greeted by their guests under a canopy of twinkling lights. The live performance of Soulfeggio’s “Marry You” set an energetic and heartfelt tone for the evening, capturing the excitement of the moment as Abigail and Shaun made their way into the beautifully styled space.
Dinner was an indulgent experience with a Balinese-styled menu featuring a Suckling Pig stall and a curated three-course meal. Guests raised their glasses in heartfelt toasts, celebrating the love and joy of the newlyweds. Flickering candlelight created an unforgettable dining atmosphere.
The centerpiece of the evening was the couple’s cake-cutting ceremony. The stunning cake, created by Top of It, featured intricate floral details in warm hues, perfectly mirroring the wedding’s theme. Its delicate design added a touch of artistry to the celebration, delighting guests with its elegance.
As the night continued, Abigail surprised Shaun with a dynamic dance performance alongside her bridesmaids, dazzling in her glittering second dress. The lively choreography brought an extra spark to the evening, setting the stage for the couple’s much-anticipated first dance. Abigail and Shaun took to the floor for a romantic and playful performance to “Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé, complete with pyrotechnics and an unforgettable dip to end their routine.
The reception transitioned seamlessly into a high-energy after-party, where guests danced the night away under the stars. The breathtaking cliffside venue and electrifying music set the perfect backdrop for the celebration’s final chapter, ensuring that the night ended on a high note filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
"Every moment, from the joyful gate crash to the intimate after-party, was filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories."
PHOTOGRAPHER Depth of Tales | VIDEOGRAPHER Dinara Stika Films | PLANNER Vara Wedding, Christina Nugraheni | VENUE Alila Villas Uluwatu | MUA Sita Makeup | HAIR Toni | BRIDAL SHOP The Ivory Bridal | DRESS Nicole Felicia Couture | DECOR AiLuoSi Decor | CAKE Top of It | SOUND & LIGHTING Azimuth Bali | ENTERTAINMENT Soulfeggio Band | MC Cheryl Marella
