A joyful Elopement in Dubrovnik with Sea Viewpoint, Croatia
Dubrovnik as a destination to elope
Dubrovnik, a historic jewel on Croatia’s Adriatic coast, is famed for its magnificent medieval architecture and stunning seaside vistas. The Adriatic Sea, with its pristine, clear waters, surrounds Dubrovnik in shades of deep blue and emerald green. The gentle sound of waves against the rocky shore provides a serene soundtrack to the city’s vibrant atmosphere. On the horizon, small, lush islands speckle the sea, beckoning exploration and offering secluded spots for romantic getaways, making it an ideal location for eloping in Croatia.
Just a short distance from the city is the quaint village of Mlini, nestled in a valley and encircled by olive groves and vineyards. This picturesque village, with its whitewashed houses and colorful gardens, radiates a timeless tranquility. Winding narrow paths lead through the village to a small, rustic church that often hosts intimate weddings. The air is perfumed with the scents of lavender and rosemary, and the warmth of the friendly locals enhances the inviting atmosphere. This idyllic setting offers a nice backdrop for an elopement ceremony, blending the ancient allure of Dubrovnik with the rustic charm of the countryside.
The love photo session before the ceremony when sun goes down
At Love Gracefully, we are passionate about capturing the essence of love and family through our Love Sessions. These dedicated photo shoots offer couples, the chance to think about moments together. Unlike the formal portraits typically taken during a wedding ceremony or reception, a Love Session allows couples to focus solely on each other, expressing their love and affection in a more relaxed and natural setting. This is especially meaningful when renewing vows, as it celebrates their journey of trust, shared dreams, and a bright life together.
Our Love Sessions can be held in various locations, such as picturesque outdoor landscapes, charming urban settings, or meaningful indoor venues, depending on the couple’s preferences. The photographer works closely with the couple to create a comfortable and personalized atmosphere, encouraging authentic interactions while capturing candid moments of love, joy, and connection. These sessions are a cherished way for couples to commemorate their relationship and celebrate their love beyond the wedding day itself.
From the Sunshine Coast to the Adriatic Sea: John & Mariela’s Journey to “I Do”
John and Mariela’s story began with a swipe and a spark—two kindred souls brought together on Tinder in 2016, who finally met face-to-face in February 2017 over coffee at a little café called Guru Life on Australia’s Sunshine Coast. What started as an effortless conversation quickly became something deeper: their second date was the very next morning, on Mariela’s birthday, and by their third, they were already inseparable.
Their love story wasn’t linear, but it was always magnetic. A brief separation when John moved to Sydney was followed by a serendipitous reconnection just as he returned home. From that moment, their bond only grew stronger, rooted in shared values, a love for nature, and the kind of mutual understanding that feels both rare and real. Through spontaneous hikes, spiritual growth, and even life’s toughest challenges—including John’s early cancer diagnosis—they stood firmly side by side, never letting go.
Years later, after many adventures, countless coffees, and a quiet, intentional love that had proven its strength, they chose to celebrate their union in the timeless beauty of Dubrovnik. Eloping in this ancient city by the sea felt like the perfect way to honor their journey—one built on love, resilience, and deep connection.
This is the story of their unforgettable day in Croatia.
