Rachael Hughey and Brenton Seymour
The Accommodation: Sunset Bungalows Resort, over-the-water bungalows
The Ceremony Location: Sunset Bungalows over-water deck
The Length of Stay: Six days
Why did you opt for a destination wedding? Having been a bridesmaid three times and seeing how much stress a bride goes through with the planning of a wedding, we wanted something completely different and stress - free! So we decided on an intimate tropical ceremony away from all the chaos of everyday life and the ‘typical' dramas of a high - maintence wedding day.
Why Vanuatu? We had been researching the Pacific Islands because the people looked so friendly and relaxed, and the cultures so interesting. Then we won a competition with Holidays for Couples magazine, the prize being a holiday to Vanuatu!
How long did it take to plan? We won the prize in November and we had it all booked a month later. Once we contacted the resort about making our holiday into a destination wedding, they organised everything for us. We liaised easily with each other via e-mail and over the phone.
What was the reaction like from your family and friends? We really didn't think anyone would come, we were anticipating that it would just be the two of us. Then family and friends starting booking flights and we were over the moon! They were all so excited, as it was also a great excuse to have a holiday.
How many guests attended? Twelve guests in total ... nice and intimate!
Where did they stay? Some guests stayed at Sunset Bungalows with us, whilst others stayed at the bigger resorts
like Le Meridien Port Vila and Le Legon. We were all ten minutes from each other, so no one was too far away.
Anything you would have done differently? Stayed longer! Vanuatu is fantastic ... you never want to leave!
The best part of a destination wedding? It's a big adventure with your friends and family. It's something special that you can share with them and remember forever. The wedding celebrations also last a lot longer than a few hours, ours lasted a whole week. It's a bit like a tropical fairy tale!
Any advice for couples planning a similar wedding? Go for it! Don't hesitate to talk to your resort/hotel manager if you have any questions or concerns. Give your friends and family plenty of notice and information about your destination. We both turned into walking talking Lonely Planet guides on Vanuatu!
What is your most special/memorable moment of the day? Tribal Warriors storming in during our wedding feast, it was spectacular and a complete surprise! They danced so loudly I'm sure the whole island heard it!