Perfect autumn days on Sydney’s northern beaches have a special kind of magic, and Sharni and Hugo hit the weather jackpot for their March celebration at Dunes. Not a single cloud dared interrupt the brilliant blue canvas stretching above their beachside ceremony – nature’s way of blessing a union that felt both elegant and effortlessly cool.

The Makehaus team transformed Dunes into a neutral and pastel-toned dream, creating a ceremony space that balanced sophistication with coastal charm. Their creative draping installation framed the couple perfectly, while an innovative floral arrangement added just enough organic texture that was highlighted by the glowing sun, setting behind.

These two brought their own beautiful symbolism to the day with a sand pouring ceremony that literally mixed grains from all their favourite places – a perfect metaphor for two lives becoming wonderfully inseparable. And speaking of (un)memorable ceremony moments, my backwards tumble will be etched into my memory as one of the most embarrassing moments of my career. The good-natured chuckles at my photographer fail just highlighted what fantastic people Sharni and Hugo truly are.

What struck me most about this Dunes wedding was how Sharni and Hugo prioritised exactly what mattered to them. Rather than spending hours away from guests for photos, they opted for a sweet first look and portrait session before the ceremony. This choice meant they could slip seamlessly from “I do” straight into celebrating with their favourite people – no long absences, just maximum enjoyment of the stunning Dunes setting.

Inside the reception, tables adorned with subtle pastels and neutrals created an atmosphere of understated elegance that perfectly complemented the venue’s natural beauty. As twilight descended, the entire space took on that magical golden glow that photographers dream about and Dunes weddings deliver so reliably.

There’s something beautifully authentic about couples who know exactly what they want their wedding day to feel like. Sharni and Hugo created a celebration that honored tradition while bending the rules just enough to make it uniquely theirs – relaxed, joyful, and surrounded by love at one of the northern beaches’ most spectacular wedding venues.

The Dunes wedding experience continues to be a standout choice for couples seeking that perfect blend of beachside beauty and refined celebration – and Sharni and Hugo’s day was a shining example of everything that makes it special.