Throwing it back with this blog post to a simpler pre-covid time, reminiscing about this wedding scene of my dreams. This was a passion project of mine, born from a creative vision I had one afternoon. A spark was lit and I knew I had to follow this impulse. This shoot ended up being such a leap of faith as we juggled bad weather and travel schedules to make it happen. At the last opportunity we dove heart first even amidst a storm and 90% chance of rain forecast for the day. It was a miracle that it only rained once, thankfully only between outfit changes.
We were so blessed with beautiful sunshine, beautiful light and a magical sunset. As soon as we packed up the rain came once more.
It was such a joy working with the ultra talented Pretty Willow and Lush Floral design who created a scene more extraordinary that I could have imagined. If you’re looking for some extra talented, ultra committed Perth creatives for your wedding, then look no further.
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.
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!
As she strolls along the deserted beach, time stands still. Her beloved gently embraces her and whispers….”One Love”. Mother nature as their witness, they stroll into the golden horizon, hearts full of dreams, and infinite possibilities for their magical life ahead.
My dream was always to have a bohemian beach style wedding in my favourite and happiest of all places. To walk barefoot upon all that white sand with a vibrant turquoise ocean backdrop. I am beyond blessed after making this a reality in 2008 with my beloved husband Bobby, and now being able to co-create my vision (with a few style updates) with the most amazing team of Perth creatives. It was so inspiring, not to mention fun, creating this together. The day was perfect, and it almost felt like my wedding day all over again. The sun shone, the champagne flowed, beautiful connections were made. It’s a wonderful feeling to work with such passionate artists, who all love what they do so much, and do it so well.
This entire shoot was styled from such a personal place, a true reflection of my style and all that I love. My vision was for a neutral palette of ivory and creams, brought to life with a contrast of varying natural textures, a theme combining both delicate and bold attributes, symbolic of the strength that comes from vulnerability. There’s a magical, free flowing vibe that evokes the vision of a relaxed bride, centred by her presence, empowered by her connection to nature, strengthened by her unconditional love for her husband.
The amazing Pretty Willow and her stunning collection of bridal props, and A Little Bohemia’s floral artistry, together created the most beautiful sacred space; the perfect setting for a barefoot bohemian bride, to simply relax and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Dressed in the most divine Ti Adora by Alvina Valenta Dress it really was a dream come true. The delicate lace and flowing silhouette embodied the carefree spirit and vintage romance that I had envisioned. As an immense jewellery lover, I wanted to create multiple jewellery looks, so I paired some of my favourites from Samantha Wills, Aristides Fine Jewels and a very special 3 stone diamond ring created by Alice Or Jewellery. Each diamond represents the 3 loves of my life – my husband Bobby and our 2 children, Jade and Jacob. I love jewellery with a story, and this ring is infused with so much love for my family; a daily reminder of what is closest to my heart.
I’m so grateful to everyone who helped contribute to this day. It was beyond magical and captured everything that One Love means to me.
My beautiful daughter, Jade, and I were recently blessed to have shared a very special photoshoot together for the divine Kapri Couture. They designed and custom made matching pieces to specifically suit our aesthetic and the mermaid vibes we were after. It was so heart warming to share this journey with my sweet girl, to watch her be pampered in this way, and see her soul alight as she found her own creative expression. She is such a natural beauty, emanating love from deep within her soul. She is my teacher, my angel, and always brings me back to my heart when I need it most. My heart is filled with gratitude for the honour of being her mommy.
This was such a fun family shoot with Bobby (daddy) behind the lens and our dear son, Jacob, our little behind the scenes helper. He was such a sweetheart, taking care of his big sister.
I’m so grateful to Kapri Couture for organising all these pieces for us, so we could share this very special day together. These moments and captures will forever remind us of our bond and unconditional love for one another.
A few weeks ago…or maybe even a month now (WOW!) I had the pleasure of visiting the Hobo + Hatch pop up shop down south in the beautiful town Cowaramup, in the Margaret River wine region. The vibe and beauty of this town and shop was so relaxing…I didn’t want to leave! If you get the chance to stop by on your travels it’s a must! So many of my favourite labels like Rue Stiic + Arrow Divine all in the one place. And what a space it is! So perfectly decked out with peacock chairs, divine tapestries, worldly jewels and cow skulls. See pics below!! I was lucky enough to pick up one of their yakadiyak wool/cotton shawls and it’s been keeping me warm and cosy during this sudden seasonal shift right into winter! And not only are they divine, each purchase supports communities in Nepal. “By purchasing from our Yakadiyak range you’ve helped make a small difference in the lives of others. We will continue to donate our time & money to the Nepalese community that touched our hearts & forever changed our soul” – Leona, Hobo + Hatch. Nothing better than wearing conscious clothing. Feels soooo good in so many ways :))))
These photos featuring this beautiful scarf, were taken a couple of weeks ago when summer was still hanging around for one last party :) The golden light in the afternoon seems to intensify during this time of year. The sunsets are so brilliant and deep, just like the autumn leaves. It’s yet another magical time of year with so much beauty to be thankful for.
Photography – Bobby Bense, Helen Janneson Bense
Model/Styling – Helen Janneson Bense
Location – Sorrento Beach, Western Australia
Outfit Details
Shawl (natural) – Hobo + Hatch | Instagram | Facebook | Visit in person shop 2, 64 Bussell Hwy, Cowaramup, Western Australia
And here are some photos of the Hobo + Hatch pop up store and bts hanging out with owner and beauty Leona..and seriously loving her outfit soooo much! Shop it HERE + HERE + HERE xx
It’s been plentiful love vibes here in the Janneson Bense abode, with V day a couple of weeks ago, and last weekend’s anniversary celebrations. My amazing husband took me on a wine cruise along the swan river to commemorate our 6 divine years of marriage. And it was incredible! The thoughtfulness, the romance, the wine, the food, meeting so many wonderful people, creating new connections, the luxury of cruising along the river in the sunshine, being thoroughly entertained by the hosts and captain of Captain Cook Cruises. They both actually sang us songs on our return trip and they were amazing!
I wanted to wear something really special on this day. My handmade Loveleigh lace dress was absolutely perfect for the occasion. One of a kind, consciously created with love.
I kept my jewels simple and gold with Anna Beck, Torchlight Jewelry and Heather Gardner. While we played at the wineries I wore my Flower Gypsies flower crown, remembering back to the magical flower arrangements at our wedding. As evening set in and we returned to the dock, we strolled along the river, reminiscing on that beautiful moment when we became husband and wife. The sun was setting and it was the perfect end to a perfect date.
Something that came to my attention on this magnificent day was the choice we have to make the most of any experience in life. When we try new things and adventure out of our comfort zone, we can choose to either see everything that is wrong with the situation, or everything that is amazing and awesome. Pretty much goes for a lot of things in life. When we choose to see the blessings and wonder that exists, the opportunities for connection, for fun, and a whole universe of love and joy, open up to us. Our experience is enriched and we are nourished. Like anything it takes practice, though the more we practice gratitude and joy, the richer our life becomes.
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