Photography – Bobby Bense

Birthday Girl – Helen Janneson Bense

Location – Sunsets Room, Cottesloe Beach Hotel

Styling – Pretty Willow

Styling Assistant – Novi – Sjahrir-Bradbury

Flowers – A Little Bohemia

Lighting – Micktric Events

Videography – Indiana Read

Cake – Lottie and Belle

Chalkboard Signage  – Look Who’s Chalkin’

Outfit Details 

Lost Love Dress

Goddess Lariat | Swarovski choker | Roxy choker | Farrah Bodychain

Flower crown

Shoes (similar)

Rings – Torchlight | Anna Beck | Samantha Wills

Hair – The Nest Hair Boutique | Jadore Extensions

Tan – Perth Mobile Spray Tans

Nails – Sienna Byron Bay (Winter)

What a magical fairytale my birthday was this year. I truly felt like a boho princess dressed in white flowing lace, dripping in golden jewels, and adorned in the most beautiful flower crown sprinkled in glitter. It was hard to believe I was turning 40 as I have never felt younger and more alive.

We were totally blessed with the amazing talents of the Pretty Willow team, who created and styled the most beautiful and inspired space. Tapping into everything I love, candles lined the entrance leading into a magical lounge reminiscent of a Moroccan Oasis. We couldn’t have been more cosy with all those beautiful creamy whites and blush tones, and the stunning scents of A little Bohemia’s sparkling florals wafting in the air. It was such a dreamy, love filled space for us all to connect and enjoy, created for the true bohemian at heart.

Our guests started the night off feasting on platters of yumminess, fun cocktails with pretty sprinkles, whilst snapping polaroids in our own bohemian inspired photo booth. Pretty Willow set up the cutest white peacock chair adorned in giant Proteas and lush greenery from A Little Bohemia. There was even a little space for our guests to peg their polaroids on so we could capture all those precious moments. Meanwhile the dance floor was heating up with african drummers setting the mood, bringing us all together in dance and laughter.

The night was filled with all my dearest friends, new and old, heart felt speeches that touched us all, and some hula hooping fun for old times sake. We feasted, we bonded, we shared, we danced, we cried tears of joy and we laughed until our bellies were stitching. We all felt the high vibrations of love swirling through the room on this very special night.

You only turn 40 once and we certainly celebrated to the nth degree with one hell of a party. I’m so grateful to all involved for bringing together the most amazing birthday ever. Special thanks go to Pretty Willow, A Little Bohemia, Micktric Lighting, Lottie and Belle Cakes, Look Who’s Chalkin’ and Indi Film.

There are not enough thanks in the world for my amazing husband, Bobby, who organised this wonderful night for me. My heart is so full of love and gratitude for this incredible man. Your unwavering commitment and unconditional love has me forever by your side and grateful for every moment I have with you.

And lastly, here’s a few of my thoughts on how it feels to be 40…..and I must say so far it’s F**KIN AMAZING! Each decade I discover more happiness and peace within myself. I’ve never felt more confident in my own skin, which of course brings about a more relaxed movement and flow through life. I’m fully embracing what is and where I’m at, super excited for what lies ahead. Here’s to the next 40 and living life to the fullest!

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

All text and images copyright © Helen Janneson Bense 2020