Jacqui and Alena walk toward the harbor, their flowing white dresses catching the breeze, with the Sydney skyline visible in the background.

A Sophisticated Wedding at Dunbar House

From a chance meeting in a London nightclub to building a life together in Sydney, Alena (she/her) & Jacqui’s (she/her) story is filled with love, resilience, and plenty of laughs along the way. With their ceremony set against the stunning harbor views at Dunbar House, this waterside wedding beautifully blended beachy charm with city sophistication. There was even a surprise flash mob that had everyone on the dance floor!

How did your love story begin?

We met in London back in September 2001 at a dodgy nightclub called Cherries. It was one of those magical moments where our eyes met across the dance floor to Kylie Minogue’s “Can’t Get You Out of My Head,” and everything changed. 

Alena was working in London on a visa, and I was living there as a Brit. 

The connection was instant – we spent all our time together during those first few weeks. Life had a way of deepening our bond, especially with everything going on in the world at the time. 

One night, I invited Alena over for Vegemite on toast, and I think that sealed the deal!​

Why did you choose Watsons Bay for your wedding venue?

We’ve always had a special connection to Watsons Bay. 

Back when we lived in the Eastern Suburbs, we’d often swim or kayak there, so it felt like a natural choice. It has that perfect mix of beachy charm and city vibes, which suits us to a tee. 

The ceremony was held at Dunbar House, right next to the beach, with the sparkling harbor as the backdrop. It was a dream location that brought together so many elements we love.

What were some challenges you faced during wedding planning?

Like so many others, COVID threw a spanner in the works. We originally planned to get married in 2020, but that had to be postponed. 

Through all the changes, we leaned on each other, kept things organized with trusty Excel spreadsheets, and made sure to stay focused on what really mattered – getting to celebrate with our loved ones.

A bouquet of vibrant, textured florals, including proteas, eucalyptus, and delicate blooms, sits on a table in a cozy, modern home with decor in the background.
A candid black-and-white moment captures a bride in a chic gown smiling as someone descends a staircase in a stylish, art-filled home interior.
Two brides in elegant white gowns stand outside "The Old Barn," each holding colorful bouquets and smiling under the bright sunlight of a summer day.
Jacqui and Alena walk hand-in-hand down a quaint street lined with charming homes, both wearing stylish white outfits and holding vibrant bouquets.
A black-and-white photo of one bride from behind highlights the elegant open-back design of her white gown, as she walks toward the ceremony.
Jacqui and Alena walk toward the harbor, their flowing white dresses catching the breeze, with the Sydney skyline visible in the background.
The brides step onto a ferry deck, one wearing a minimalist open-back gown and the other in a flowing embellished dress, both holding vibrant bouquets.
Jacqui and Alena pose on a ferry with the Sydney Harbour Bridge in the background, both wearing sunglasses and exuding joy and elegance in their white gowns.
A close-up captures Jacqui and Alena sitting side-by-side on a ferry, holding hands, showcasing their rings and bracelets, and radiating intimate connection.
Jacqui and Alena step off the ferry onto a dock, greeted by a guest, with the sparkling waters and scenic views of Watsons Bay behind them.
The brides clasp hands joyfully during their outdoor ceremony under a leafy tree, framed by dappled sunlight.
Jacqui and Alena exchange wedding rings during the ceremony, their joy captured amidst lush greenery and natural light.
A black-and-white image captures Jacqui and Alena embracing under a tree at the conclusion of their vows.
Jacqui and Alena walk hand-in-hand back up the aisle, surrounded by smiling guests and dappled sunlight under the trees.

Tell us about the journey to Watsons Bay on your wedding day.

The day started at our home in Balmain, which we’ve lovingly renovated over the years. Alena, being an interior designer, made it our perfect little barn. We had hair and makeup at home, and then my mum and brother, who had flown in from the UK, joined us for the trip to the harbor. 

From there, we hopped on a water taxi with our friends and family for the ride to Watsons Bay. It was breezy, a little bumpy, but full of laughs – and only a small amount of champagne was spilled​.

What made your wedding outfits so special?

We both initially thought we wouldn’t go for the traditional white dress, but we ended up having so much fun with it. Alena found a gorgeous vintage Oscar de la Renta gown, while I opted for a sustainably made Bianca Spender dress. 

Both were perfect for the summer weather and felt like extensions of our personalities. They added just the right amount of elegance to the day

Did you include any unique or personal touches in your celebration?

Absolutely! One of the highlights was our first dance. Instead of keeping it simple, we surprised our guests with a flash mob to Barry White’s “You’re the First, the Last, My Everything.” 

We had a few practice sessions, and while our coordination wasn’t flawless, the laughter and joy it brought made it unforgettable. Seeing everyone join us on the dance floor was pure magic.

Jacqui and Alena step outside through an open door, framed by the elegant interior and scenic waterfront beyond.
A candid moment shows Jacqui and Alena walking along a sunny path, their flowing dresses and bouquets creating a beautiful balance of movement and color.
Jacqui and Alena share a private moment on a waterfront pier, their gowns glowing in the golden light.
Jacqui and Alena share a private moment on a waterfront pier, their gowns glowing in the golden light.
Jacqui and Alena ascend the steps to their reception venue, their dresses creating elegant movement as they enter.
A single bride stands in an elegantly decorated room, adjusting her hair in the mirror, surrounded by warm, dim lighting.
Jacqui raises a toast while Alena shares a tender kiss with a guest at a warmly lit reception table adorned with lush florals.
Jacqui and Alena dance with joy at their reception, wearing sunglasses and chic white gowns, surrounded by laughing guests.
Jacqui and Alena smile as a loved one takes a photo of them holding bouquets in a cozy home with modern decor and exposed beams.
Guests gather under a large leafy tree by Watsons Bay, with chairs arranged neatly and the harbor sparkling in the distance.
Jacqui and Alena exchange smiles during their ceremony under the leafy tree, sunlight streaming through the branches.
The reception room is set with round tables draped in white linens, floral centerpieces, and sparkling chandeliers overhead.
A framed sign welcomes guests to Jacqui and Alena’s wedding, with floral graphics and an itinerary of the day displayed.

Photography by Kelly Tunney Photographer

Celebrant Jessie Cacchillo
Ceremony Venue Dunbar House
Dress Designer Bianca Spender & Oscar De La Renta
Florist Blumette
Hair Stylist Christina Cleary
Live Music Red Soda
Makeup Artist Christina Cleary
Shoes Bared Footwear
Transport VIP Water Taxis
Wedding Rings Matthew Ely Jewellery

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