Real Bride Story: Taylor wearing Maya by Galia Lahav
Bride & Groom: Taylor & Dylan
Wedding Dress: Galia Lahav Maya from Helen Rodrigues Bridal
Photography: Zoom Fiji
Venue: Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort
Floral: Fiji Weddings
Planning & Styling: Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, Chelsea Jayne Weddings (planning), Fiji Weddings (styling)
Accessories: HR Signature veil from Helen Rodrigues Bridal, Earrings & Shoes from Etsy, Simon Curwood custom wedding ring
Hair & Makeup: Hair & Makeup Perfectionist Fiji
Videography: Zoom Fiji
Bridesmaid Dresses: Conte Dress NBM1019 by Nicoletta
How did you and your husband meet?
Before our love story truly began, we were simply backdoor neighbours in high school; just a fence apart, yet unaware of the life waiting for us on the other side. Almost eight years ago, fate found its way back to us through something as ordinary as a dating app. We chose to meet at a gaming arcade, never imagining that day we were meeting not just as strangers, but as future husband and wife.
We spent the night laughing like kids, letting our inner child run free among the flashing lights and video games. But it was afterwards, sitting side by side on a bench in the shopping mall, that something deeper began to spark. We talked, we laughed, and we shared pieces of ourselves until time slipped away completely. Eventually, the security guard gently asked us to leave, and that’s when we looked around and realised the shopping centre was empty, not a single soul in sight, just the two of us. Little did we know, that night marked the beginning of a forever we never saw coming, yet had both been unknowingly waiting for.
How did he propose?
My husband and I have always been travel bugs, chasing new adventures together wherever we could. For our four-year anniversary, we decided to finally make a dream come true and celebrate in Bora Bora; a place we had talked about visiting for as long as we can remember.
The week we spent there, it rained every single day. But somehow, it made everything feel even more magical; like the skies were saving something special just for us. On the day Dylan proposed, the rain stopped. There wasn't a single cloud in the sky, just sunshine. It felt as though the world paused to make room for something beautiful.
We were on the deck of our overwater bungalow, capturing little moments on our camera like we always do. In the middle of it all, Dylan quietly switched the camera to video. As it started recording, he walked over to me, looked into my eyes, dropped to one knee, and said, “I love you so much… will you marry me?”
It was the easiest and best decision I’ve ever made in my entire life. In that moment, everything felt right like my heart already knew the answer long before he even asked.
What was your vision for your wedding day?
My husband and I share a love for travel, so when he suggested the idea of having our wedding overseas, Fiji instantly felt like the perfect choice, and it truly was. Our vision centered on creating a beautiful guest experience while showcasing the love we share. We filled the space with lush greenery, elegant white florals, fairy lights, and glowing candles to bring to life a romantic, ethereal outdoor celebration.
Where did you look for your wedding gown inspiration? (What tools/sites did you use to gather your inspiration)
I stumbled across a photo of the Maya Galia Lahav gown on Pinterest years ago and instantly knew it was meant for me. I had always envisioned wearing something feminine, romantic, and ethereal. I instantly knew that this gown was meant for me.
Tell us about your experience at Helen Rodrigues Bridal and what drew you to your gown?
Years ago, I discovered the Maya Galia Lahav gown and instantly fell in love. No other dress ever gave me that same feeling, and from the moment I saw it on Pinterest, I knew it had to be mine. When I got engaged, I searched everywhere in Sydney until I finally found it at Helen Rodrigues Bridal. The Maya gown was the first, and the only dress I tried on. The team made the entire experience unforgettable; they were professional, supportive, and so knowledgeable, guiding me effortlessly and helping me choose the perfect veil to complete my look.
“From the moment I stepped into Helen Rodrigues Bridal, I felt like I was in the hands of people who truly understood my vision. Helen, Sophie, and Brooke weren’t just guiding me to a dress, they were helping me bring a dream to life. They combined incredible expertise with genuine warmth, making me feel completely supported every step of the way. Not only did they have the gown I had been searching for for years, but their personal touches and care turned finding my dress into an unforgettable, magical experience.”
What was the highlight of your wedding day for you?
The best advice I can give to any bride is this: if you fall in love with a gown, don’t let anyone else’s opinion sway your decision. At the end of the day, you know yourself better than anyone and you’ve likely dreamed of this moment your whole life. Keep your appointments intimate, bring only the people you know truly have your best interests at heart.
Is there any advice you would give other #HRBride’s?
Take every single moment in as you walk down the isle, and take your sweet time.
Whether you're looking for a classic wedding dress or something truly unique, Helen Rodrigues Bridal offers a truly personalised experience for every bride. Book your appointment today and find your dream gown.
