On the first anniversary of the most beautiful Sara & Akif we are lucky enough to share a glimpse into their story and wedding day….

How did you meet?

We met at a bar- at 3am there were only around 20 people max still there. I had been out with my mother, him with a work mate. His friend pulled me aside to tell me he thought I was a cutie I laughed and told him to approach me himself! After a short conversation the feeling was mutual, we felt like we knew each other forever! Shortly after a few dates passed a holiday or two and lots of time spent together we were in deep- the feelings were real! After 3 magical years he finally decided to pop the question on his parents balcony on a beautiful day!

What was it about your partner that made you think that they were the one?

He is the most selfless, loving human being I've ever met. He constantly makes me feel like a better person and brings out the best in me.

What made you decide to take the leap and have a destination wedding?

I had always loved the idea of having an outdoor wedding unfortunately if you've ever been to Melbourne you would know how unpredictable our weather is! After some deliberation we had decided a destination wedding would suit our wedding style perfectly- and we are so glad we did!

What was the inspiration behind your wedding?

I'm a less is more kinda gal, so when it came to most things like my cake, centre pieces, flowers I wanted to keep everything simple and to complement the venue itself. However unintentionally both the day and night had a very magical, fairy tale theme about it.

Why did you choose to get married at The Royal Pita Maha?

I loved how unique the venue was! I haven't met too many people that have gotten married in a rain forest before! So that for me was a big selling point. We both love nature so we easily felt like this was a good representation of us.

Which part of the day were you most excited about?

Oh that's a hard one! I think the ceremony more than anything. I was just so excited to marry the man of my dreams!

Which part of the day was your favourite?

From start to finish. There isn't a moment I could possible fault!

Where did you splurge and where did you save?

There wasn't really anything we went crazy on, we were already saving on the wedding itself so we could afford to spend a little extra on rings and shoes…

What were the favourite details that you chose for your day?

Honestly everything I chose I loved so much. They did such an incredible job with everything. From the setup at the ceremony and reception to the centrepieces, the lighting. just everything all the small details that we had changed around really came together.

How did you find the perfect dress?

I actually found my gown on Etsy! I had stumbled across a European gown designing company called the Rava Avis Group, it was a little risky ordering a dress online but it was absolutely worth it! Dress by Ange Etoiles.

What did your Bridesmaids and Groomsmen wear?

Bridesmaids wore custom taupe infinity dresses Groomsmen wore linen chinos and shirts

Where was the honeymoon? *

We had stayed in Bali for a few days after the wedding, we then jetted off to Hong Kong then stopped past the Maldives before returning home.

Do you have any words of advice for future married couples?

Botanica Weddings made planning a wedding so so easy it was scary!

I have to admit virtually planning your wedding blindfolded was a struggle but my goodness when we first laid eyes on what we had just worked so hard for it was absolutely worth it! The day had run so smoothly the staff we're so attentive and oh so much fun! Our incredible wedding planner Trasti was beyond all expectations she was an absolute gem! Our MC Brett was outstanding! Our celebrant was so lovely.

The point is you're absolutely in safe hands with Botanica Weddings!

Do you have any messages for your planner or the staff at Botanica for us to pass on?

Once again thank you to all the worked hard and made our night so unforgettable! You guys really made us feel so special and it really made our night so much more relaxing. To everyone at Botanica thank you guys so much for making our dream wedding what it was we're so pleased with the outcome and we loved working with you guys!

What would be your top piece of advice for another Bride / Couple getting married?

Don't take everything so seriously! The day goes by so fast you want to be able to enjoy the entire day!

All of the beautiful images were captured by the Martin Dewata

Hair & Makeup by Fikri Halim

The brides shoes are by Stuart Weitzman

The Dress by Ange Etoiles

The Suit by Peter Jackson

See more photo’s here in their real wedding gallery