Jo + Andrew’s Epic Byron Bay Beach Elopement

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“There was so much to love about this shoot. Getting to work with awesome vendors is always a highlight, and I think it makes all the difference for the couple when they can feel that genuine connection between their vendors on the day, especially for an elopement or intimate wedding. And then of course, I loved Jo & Andrew’s playful connection. Two lovers, living in the moment and having a blast getting married, their way – there’s nothing more fun than that!”

Jo + Andrew’s Epic Byron Bay Beach Elopement

Since Covid, we’ve seen a major leap in the amount of elopement’s happening all over Australia. A true elopement is when the couple sneak away without any of their family or friends knowing anything of their plans.

Jo and her fiance Andrew decided they wanted to secretly elope to the beach and stay in Australia’s iconic Byron Bay in Autumn 2023. First of all, Jo contacted one the regions’ best and friendliest wedding photographer’s Sean Reefman.

They wanted something really simple that they didn’t have to think about much. When they separately contacted one of our Celebrant’s Victoria Armstrong who helped them build a package with Hair and Make-Up, Florist, and Kombi – all under the Lennox Weddings banner. It’s worth noting here that Victoria was, at the time, in the planning phase of launching Lennox Weddings as you see it now.

These two were such a wild pair, with non-stops laughs all the way from when Kellie Bates turned up to make-up Jo and then Sean to take their pre-wedding snaps at their accomodation at Azur in the heart of the Bay, and Miss Nimbin, the Kombi, who chauffeured them to the beach to say I Do!

The month of May really is one of the best months to marry here in the Northern Rivers and Mother Nature really put it on for them with the most beautiful weather and stunning sunset.

We asked Sean some of his tips about getting the best wedding photographs:

1) What did you love most about this shoot?

“There was so much to love about this shoot. Getting to work with awesome vendors like Victoria and Pikt is always a highlight, and I think it makes all the difference for the couple when they can feel that genuine connection between their vendors on the day, especially for an elopement or intimate wedding. And then of course, I loved Jo & Andrew’s playful connection. Two lovers, living in the moment and having a blast getting married, their way – there’s nothing more fun than that!”

2) Do you find beach weddings challenging or inspiring?

“Definitely inspiring. We’re so lucky to have the most incredible beaches here with picture perfect backdrops, creating a dreamy location for a late afternoon ceremony with that beautiful light. Beach weddings instantly have that relaxed vibe too which can help couples loosen up, ditch the nerves and feel more comfortable as they say ‘I do’.”

3) Do you enjoy shooting elopements?

“I do! Elopements definitely have a more intimate feel and a hyper focus on the couple, their unique connection and their love. There’s nowhere to hide when you’re eloping and every moment feels really intentional and personalised just for you. It’s a special energy to be a part of and one that I’m grateful to be trusted with as a photographer.”

4) What advice can you give to couples wanting to elope on the beach?

“It’s best to aim for a secluded beach to help minimise distractions and an early morning or late afternoon ceremony is usually the golden time for that beautiful soft light. If there’s a beach that means something to you as a couple or forms part of your love story, you can work with your photographer to find those hidden backdrops or special spots ahead of time. The most important thing is that you feel at home and comfortable to let the world fall away as you focus on each other, and let your team handle the rest.”

5) What is your number one tip for getting the perfect wedding shot?

“A ‘perfect shot’ can mean different things to different people. But I’d say that the more a couple can be present and ‘in the moment’ and focused on each other, the more natural and candid the photos will turn out and the more loved they will be. As a photographer, it’s my job to help my couples relax, by being more of a friend rather than a vendor, and being responsible for the good vibes I bring to their day. As a couple, don’t forget to reminisce on your story, where you’ve been together and where you are going together. This is your day and having your dream team around you will let you focus on exactly that.”

Of you’re looking for a simple elopement style package then get in touch with the Team at Lennox Weddings and we’ll help you build your very best most affordable wedding package.