Some find their perfect match at the very beginning of a journey and fall in love without much thinking.
Amy Baleibaravi and Joshua Clark felt this magic spark and it didn’t take long before they knew their hearts were compatible.. however Amy carries Fijian genes on her paternal side so they decided to tie the knot in Fiji earlier last month in front of close family members and friends.
“My koro is Nasilai, Rewa and my mataqali is Daunakelo, of yavusa Vulagi,” Amy shared.
Amy first met Joshua during a lastminute trip to Bali in Indonesia with a group of friends in 2014.
“We spent time together over two weeks, getting to know each other which we continued when we got back home, and the rest is history.
“The first stage in our relationship was exciting and adventurous! We did lots of travelling, camping and went to lots of concerts and music festivals.
“We were camping one night, and I remember us falling asleep underneath the stars and it was just the perfect moment.”
Amy said their first official date was back in February 2015 when they went out for tacos and later enjoyed some time at the circus.
“We had been together for five years when Joshua proposed and eight years before officially getting married.
“We both love to cook and socialise with friends and family. We both share in each other’s dreams and are people driven.”
While walking with their dog Leo along the beach one day, Joshua got down on one knee and asked Amy to marry him.
“Right after I said yes, Leo attempted to eat the engagement ring.”
Planning their big day was smooth. The couple chose a package through Sofitel Resort and Spa with only certain adjustments tailored to their taste.
In fact, there were two wedding celebrations, one at the resort and the other at Kinoya Village organised by Amy’s father and family in Fiji, which h was a surprise for the pair.
“We wanted to ensure our wedding had traditional Fijian characteristics s whilst adding a touch of contemporary.
“My beautiful dress was made locally by Tabuadrau Design and was absolutely perfect.”
The groom and his groomsmen were also dressed in locally made bula wear.
“All the decorations were sourced through Sofitel and they ensured we were able to capture the beautiful tropics of Fiji.
“We were also lucky enough to have traditional meke, fire dancing and fireworks for our wedding entertainment.”
At the second celebration, Amy’s aunties dressed the couple with traditional masi and were spoilt with a traditional feast including lovo and kava.
“We danced the night away with our families and guests from Australia. This is a truly special memory that t we hold close to our hearts and will l never forget. Amy said their most memorable e moments were building their dream home and sharing life experiences travelling internationally, including Fiji. As a message to would be couples and newly married ones, they said: “Surround yourself with those you love, take your time to enjoy the day and don’t sweat the small stuff.”
