At twenty-one Amber Barnard set her sights on a full-time job. As every new graduate would assume, it wasn’t going to be easy, nor was it going to be fun. No longer could she spend the mornings languishing in bed, with the reality of several espresso shots and early starts steadily creeping closer.
Like most job interviews, Amber faced a mountain of predicaments, but during this one in particular, she encountered a rather unlikely one – 25 year old Duane Herring! The interview room immediately filled with undeniable chemistry as Duane interviewed Amber for a position in his team. Two years later, the pair could no longer set their journeys apart and began dating.
Whilst holidaying on Boracay Island in the Philippines, Duane proposed! Duane didn’t take the occasion lightly, organising a scenic sunset helicopter tour to woo his beloved before an intimate beachside dinner complete with personal chef. Who wouldn’t say yes after all that?!
On their 10-year anniversary, Amber and Duane eloped on the breathtaking shores of Bora Bora. The pair were welcomed with crystal blue skies and an immediate sense of relaxation. Immersed in the magical scenery, Amber and Duane were ecstatic to have chosen an intimate wedding ceremony. In another unusual change to tradition, the pair were married by the Mayor of Bora Bora. Unable to speak any English, an interpreter was present and pronounced the gorgeous pair husband and wife.
When asked, Amber told Wedded Wonderland “We completely eschewed tradition wherever it suited us – Duane helped me find my dress and attended my fitting while on our wedding day we got ready together (Duane even helped me get dressed!). I did my own hair and make-up, we travelled to the ceremony together, we didn’t have a bridal party or any guests, no bouquet or wedding cake – and I decided to keep my own name!”
Be Inspired, Fairies!
Photographer Damien Gobron @boraboraphotographer Ceremony Venue Bora Bora City Hall Reception Venue Bora Bora Intercontinental Thalasso Resort & Spa @intercontinental Wedding planner Bora Bora Intercontinental Thalasso @intercontinental Bridal dress designer Grace Loves Lace @grace_loves_lace Bridal purse Celine Bridal jewellery Grace Loves Lace Diamonds International Wedding rings Cartier Groom’s suit Calibre @calibreaustralia
Article written by Alison Donnellan