Real Wedding // Rubi & Damien’s Fig Tree Wedding

Rubi & Damien’s Fig Tree Restaurant wedding in Byron Bay was the perfect marriage of elegance and authenticity. Their vision was intentionally simple yet refined — an atmosphere where beauty never overpowered meaning, and every detail told a story. Long tables were dressed with graceful, understated settings, softened by florals that felt organic and timeless. Then, as if nature itself was celebrating alongside them, a rainbow arched across the sky — the most serendipitous symbol of joy and love. As the sun dipped behind the hinterland, music drifted into the night as laughter and heartfelt words filled the air. Every moment felt effortless, meaningful, and deeply true to who they are as a couple. Read on to relive this very special day.

Tell us about your story, how did you meet and where did the proposal happen?

Some believe that the people we are meant to meet in this life are connected to us by an invisible string — one that defies time and distance. No matter how far apart they may be, or how unlikely their paths seem, the universe always finds a way to bring them together when the moment is right.

For Rubi and Damien, that invisible string stretched across countries and seas, weaving their story together in the most unexpected of ways. In 2019, on the streets of Sorrento, Italy, their paths first crossed. A fleeting encounter, a simple exchange of details — neither knowing that the universe had already set their course. But fate wasn’t done with them yet. Messages persisted, conversations deepened, and soon, what began as chance turned into something undeniable.

By August of that year, a first date sparked a connection filled with laughter, shared passions, and an undeniable chemistry. From their love of food and travel to art they discovered in each other a kindred spirit.

In 2023 — an island just off Dubrovnik, Croatia — where Damien knelt on one knee, only to be met with an overjoyed ‘yes’ before he could even utter the question. And now, five years since that first meeting, the invisible string has brought them here, to this moment, surrounded by those they love most, ready to celebrate a love story that was always meant to be.

What were the reasons for choosing Fig Tree Restaurant as the venue for your special day?

Years ago, Rubi wrote a list in her Notes app — a list describing the dream version of the man she hoped to one day meet. One of the things she wrote was, “Must love Byron.”

From a young age, Rubi had been travelling north with her family, and Byron Bay became a cherished holiday destination. It was also the first place she and Damien visited together as a couple. Over time, it became the spot they kept returning to — a place where they could truly unwind and slip into holiday mode.

While Damien’s family lives in Croatia and they love visiting Europe regularly, the logistics of getting everyone to the island where they got engaged were challenging. So, when it came to choosing a wedding location, they knew they wanted somewhere that gave that same relaxed, holiday feeling.

Fig Tree felt like the perfect choice. Set in their favourite local getaway, it also gave them a touch of the European charm they both love. It was the ideal place to become husband and wife — a place they’ll always treasure as the spot where they made it official.

What style were you striving for with your table settings, florals and reception? Was there a certain look or vibe that you wanted to create?

Simple. Elegant. With a touch of chilli.

Every little detail needed to tell a story, and together, they made the day perfect. From the florals to the lighting, the music to the rainbow that made a welcomed appearance — everything reflected exactly who we are as a couple.

Were there any vendors that you particularly loved working with and why?

All of them! A big shout out to our photographer The Bulb Creative and videographer Moments by Sam. Because of them we get to relive the day over and over again through photos and videos.

What were your favourite parts of the wedding planning process with Byron Bay Weddings?

Stress is a word that is normally associated with a wedding – but working with Byron Bay Weddings from day one, this was not a word we used. Before we had even chosen a venue or planner the team were going over and above from booking in venue visits, champagne on arrival, answering every detailed question from the mother of the bride.

Tell us what were the most important aspects of your wedding day and which moments really stood out to you?

As mentioned, the service was exceptional from the moment we first connected with Byron Bay Weddings. Everything was seamless—even our venue visits were booked before we had arrived in Byron.

One of the highlights was the menu tasting — it was honestly one of our favourite parts of the planning journey. Every detail we requested, from an oyster shucker to a hint of chilli in the margaritas, was delivered perfectly.

There was even a moment during the ceremony when my dad’s shoe broke as he walked me down the aisle — and by the time we’d finished our first cocktail, it had already been fixed.

It was thoughtful touches like that which made the entire experience feel effortless and stress-free. We truly had the best day, and the vision I’d carried in my heart since I was a little girl played out in real time— exactly as I had imagined it as a bride.

What would be your biggest advice to other couples currently planning their wedding?

Don’t rush the process. No one really prepares you for the strange feeling that comes after the wedding— the sudden absence of planning, decision-making, and anticipation. So, embrace every choice you have to make, even the stressful ones. Because on the day, it’s truly magical to see each little detail come to life. It all goes by so quickly, and you’ll find yourself wishing you could relive every moment. So take your time, savour the journey, and enjoy the process. It really is the best day of your life — and one you’ll want to replay in your mind again and again.

A love letter to the dress…

Peter Trends Bridal – I’ve grown up in wedding dresses, surrounded by silk, mikado, tulle, and satin. My grandparents began designing in 1969, and decades later, my incredibly talented mum and aunty took the reins of. Growing up, I tried on every style imaginable — so getting to design my dream dress with them was an experience I’ll never stop feeling grateful for. This dress wasn’t just a wedding dress. It was a family legacy.

The first dress – Bold and sculptural, with layers of petticoats and tulle beneath luminous mikado, giving it a couture, fairytale finish. The second – A chance discovery, brought to life by my aunty’s vision of fitted lace and a little sexy.

What a privilege to be the daughter and niece of the women behind the designs — and an even greater one to be one of their brides. 

Rubi & Damien xo

COLLABORATORS
Venue: Fig Tree Restaurant // Hair & Makeup: Alex Ouston Beauty // Celebrant: Ed Ceremony // Photographer: Bulb Creative // Videographer: Moments By Sam // Florals: Nikau Flora // Musician & DJ: Byron Bay Experience // Cake: Eclair at The Bay // Transport: Byron Bay Double Deckers // Catering: Fig Tree Catering // Lighting:  Byron Audio // Stationery & Signage: The SeaSalter // Furniture & Styling: The Wedding Shed // Planning & Coordination: Byron Bay Weddings // Wedding Dress: Peter Trends Bridal // Jewellery: Alana Maria Jewellery // Tan: Forever Sunkissed