flowers

Every Shade of Blue

May 28, 2017

Photography – Bobby Bense | Helen Janneson Bense

Drone Photography – Look Down Bali

Model/Styling – Helen Janneson Bense

Location – Azul Beach Club, Bali Mandira – Legian | Nusa Ceningan | Nusa Penida – Bali, Indonesia

Nusa Penida Boat trip – Seaduction

Outfit Details

Dresses – Chaouen Maxi | Silk Blue Gown | Brazen Blush Dress | Palma Australia Lace | Maple Maxi

Tops/Skirts – Stardust Sequin Cami | Tropez Embellished Tunic | Mini Skirt Galaxy

Kimonos – Sting Ray Cover | Safi Kaftan

Jewelry – Lakshmi Mala | Blue Quartz Drop Necklace | GypsyLovinLight Shop

Hats – The Beverly | Arizona

So excited to share with you our recent Bali adventures to the magnificent Azul Beach Club and Bali Mandira. We spent easter here with the whole family, enjoying many awesome events, including the ultra cool LushLand Sunset Sesh where we danced all night long under the stars to some amazing tunes and first class performances. It’s now become our Bali home away from home. Picture a 3 story bamboo treehouse overlooking the beautiful ocean with those perfect Bali waves rolling in. Envision a spiralling bamboo staircase taking you to the best sunset view, a tiki bar made of geodes in beautiful ocean blues, and a wall feature shimmering with the iridescence of abalone shells. Everything from the infinity pool, the spa, the lights, the music, the cool vibes, all the little details…. it’s candy for the eyes and soul…and I haven’t got to the best part! The food, the drinks, the service! Next level Bali! All the tiki cocktails are prepared with premium rum, served in custom made glassware. You’ll find yourself in culinary heaven eating only the yummiest cuisine created by one of Bali’s most celebrated chefs using the finest quality ingredients. So if you haven’t been to Azul Beach Club yet, seriously you must go! Book yourself a poolside cabana, order an Island Nectar (my favourite) and definitely indulge in all the food…everything is delicious and we seriously tried the entire menu! For the perfect sunset dinner experience, book a pod overlooking the ocean!

If you are visiting from afar, then check yourself in at Bali Mandira. You’ll have easy access to Azul and you’ll have everything you could need right there. Amazing pool, swim up pool bar, kids club, beach, water slides, club benefits and more. We really loved our stay in the Pool villa which had an adjoining room for the children. We indulged in a floating breakfast in our pool for something a little extra special and fun! We highly recommend the day spa, the rooms and massages are incredible! After our massages we headed back to our room and relaxed in our very own flower bath. It’s sure to transform you into a state of complete bliss. And after all, we all need a little pampering on holidays. Once you’re nurtured and feeling loved up and energised, try the SUP yoga in the beach pool. It’s a safe and easy environment to experience this and it’s just so much fun! I can’t wait to do it again!

You can probably see from my images that we had an incredible time here. We love Bali and we have visited and stayed in many different places. We are really particular with where we stay and only recommend the best. This is a really great affordable spot, perfect for families and couples. For adult free time, Azul offers a quiet space by their infinity pool. For family fun, the beautiful large beach style pool at Bali Mandira is your go to. We experienced everything from a romantic dinner on the beach to a traditional balinese cooking class with the family.

We were lucky enough to spend a day circumnavigating Nusa Penida on this trip aboard the Seaduction. We set sail from Sanur with a fun crew, equipped with the amazing drone skills of Look Down Bali and a sense of adventure. It surely was a wild experience as we journeyed by boat around the more remote parts of this island. The colour of the water was simply breathtaking. I think I said WOW only about a hundred times! It was like being in an entirely otherworldly land. I was secretly waiting for dinosaurs to appear haha!

Big love and thanks to our hosts, Azul Beach Club and Bali Mandira, for one of the most wonderful family holidays we’ve had. We were so well taken care of, every need anticipated, and as we interacted with other guests, we could see everyone was feeling the same. It’s a truly special place. I hope you all get the opportunity some day to enjoy this island paradise.

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

Heart of Bali

November 5, 2016

Photography – Bobby Bense

Model/Creative Direction – Helen Janneson Bense

Location – Kupu Kupu Barong | The Edge View Villa – Bali, Indonesia

Outfit Details

Wild + Free Dress | Wrap around me Dress | Slice of Harmony Dress – Dasha the Label

Finally we had the opportunity to venture to Ubud on our recent Bali travels. The peaceful energy was palpable the moment we stepped out of the car. There was a zing in the air, a calming effect created by the mystical surrounds and gentle culture. It felt as though we had just entered the heart of this amazing island. The flowing river and nearby waterfalls make it such a perfect area for water explorers. I instantly fell in love with our elevated spot and our river view villa at Kupu Kupu Barong. We would end our days of family adventures with flower baths taking in the river views with an incredible backdrop of the jungle and Mt. Agung.

We thoroughly enjoyed a little pampering at Kupu’s world renowned L’occitane Tree spa and it was simply amazing…picture open air massages, perched atop of mango trees, high above the jungle where you can hear birdsong and the flowing river, and feel the essence of this mystical land.

And there was so much more… dinner by candlelight in one of the most romantic settings imaginable. An entrance lined with aromatic flowers, a twilight dinner set up for two, floating on a private pool twinkling with sunset reflections and a majestic mountain vista. It really is all kinds of heaven at Kupu Kupu Barong.

All the while I was blessed to be dressed in the best resort clothing from the divine Dasha the Label and Indie + Harper Jewels. These flowing fabrics and styles were perfect for the Balinese climate and fun family holidays with my tribe.

If you get the chance to visit Bali, I highly recommend the trek to Ubud and definitely book a stay at Kupu Kupu Barong! We are already dreaming of going back :)

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

Celebrating 40

October 10, 2016

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

One Love

August 8, 2016

Photographer – Bobby Bense

Drone Photography – Longest Way Round

Creative Director/Model – Helen Janneson Bense

Assistant – Sophie Ferguson

Macro Photography/Assistant Styling – Longest Way Round, Sophie Ferguson

Props – Pretty Willow

Flowers – A Little Bohemia

Stationary – The Little Press

Hair Styling – The Nest Hair Boutique

Outfit Details

Ti Adora by Alvina Valenta Dress

Canyon Moon Mesh Duster – Spell Designs

Faux Fur Stole – Review

Three Stone Love Ring – Alice Or Jewellery

Dark Romance Neck Collar + Cuff + Crystal Stud Earrings | Gold Dust Nights Cuff + Ornate Ring Set + Ring Set + Necklace – Samantha Wills

Aeon Diamond Rings | Custom Diamond Lariat Necklace – Aristides Fine Jewels

‘Summer is Here’ Hat – Sarah J Curtis

The Strathberry Nano Tote

Hair – The Nest Hair Boutique | Blakk Extensions

Nails (Aura) – Sienna Byron Bay

Spray Tan – Perth Mobile Spray Tans

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.

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

Dancing in the Rain

September 30, 2015

Photography – Bobby Bense & Helen Janneson Bense

Model/Styling – Helen Janneson Bense

Location – Centara Grand Resort & Spa – Krabi, Thailand

Outfit Details

Sea Urchin Crochet Dress | Hat

Crochet Bikini + Halter Top | Necklace | Sunglasses | Hat

Kimono | Sundress (similar) | Hat

Tanzania Bikini | Hat

Innika One piece Swimsuit | Hat

Kiss the Sky Gown

Sundress (similar) | Hat | Necklace | Rings | Clutch

Arizona Chain Necklace | Kimono

Gold Leg Chain

“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass….It’s about learning to dance in the rain” – Vivian Greene

This quote has never been as relevant as it was for our recent wanderlust adventures to beautiful Thailand. The day we arrived, so did a crazy monsoon. I must say even though I envisioned my time away with never-ending sunshine, it was a wonderful opportunity for both Bobby and I to embrace the uncertainty of life and find gratitude for all the unexpected blessings. It forced us deeper into ourselves, to reflect and discover what we actually love most about holidays is connection. We still had many pockets of sunshine where the rain and wind slipped away momentarily and we made the absolute most out of it.

We ventured to Krabi first, and discovered this stunning region walled with grand size limestone karsts providing a completely majestic and breathtaking backdrop. It’s a rock climbers paradise and feels a little like a scene from Jurassic Park. We stayed at the luxurious Centara Grand Resort with it’s own pristine private beach. Accessible only by boat or a jungle monkey trail from the nearby town, it’s surrounded by giant awe inspiring cliffs, clear turquoise waters and some of the softest sand I’ve ever felt. It’s a completely magical setting that instantly evokes a relaxed, holiday vibe. We enjoyed the privacy and seclusion of the location, whilst just a short boat ride or hike, you can venture out to the bustling markets, cafes and bars of Krabi. We never felt the urge to leave though as the resort had so much to offer. You can literally jump in a kayak straight from the beach and head out and explore the limestone karsts and turquoise lagoons. The whole area is surrounded by the most amazing beaches, abundant with incredible underwater life. You can take a boat tour to the surrounding islands, or head out for some scuba diving or snorkelling. Enjoy sunset dinners on the beach, jungle hikes, or laze by the multi level pool and spa with a cocktail in hand as you watch the immaculate view of the Andaman sea.

I was lucky enough to celebrate my 39th!! birthday here and indulge in one of the best massages I’ve ever had at their divine day spa. I was lulled into a deep trance and quite possibly this moment was one of the most relaxed I’ve ever felt. Later this evening we were then treated to an amazing Teppenyaki dinner, as we were serenaded with live music, a super friendly atmosphere, creating the perfect holiday ambience we were looking for. We were lucky enough to meet so many amazing travellers here, ending the night with one two many cocktails at the very cool Blu bar. One of the best parts about travelling is all the awesome people you meet and wonderful connections you make. No matter how transient these may be, they are a huge highlight of any adventure abroad.

I’m so excited to explore more of Krabi next time I head back to Thailand. More adventure awaits! ;)

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

Travel Tips :

Rainy season in Thailand is typically from May-November though I’ve been in June and it was sunshine and blue skies with just a light misting so you never know. And it’s still so wonderful even when it is raining :)
When travelling to Krabi or any of the islands by boat, I’d suggest arriving in the daylight hours, so the transfer from car, boat to resort is seamless.
The monkeys here are some the bravest I’ve encountered so watch your stuff, they will take it if you leave it unattended.
If you stay at Centara Grand Resort in Krabi definitely opt for a club room. The extra is well worth all the additional advantages that come with this room type. There is an almost non stop serving of food and drink from the Club lounge and happy hour is so amazing you might not even be able to fit in dinner!
Also make sure you order Strawberry Margaritas here…they are the BEST! ;)

Mommy & Me

June 24, 2015

Photography – Bobby Bense

Models – Jade (daughter) + Helen (mommy)

Styling – Helen Janneson Bense

Location – Sorrento beach, Western Australia

Outfit Details

Jade

Skirt | Flower Crown | Bracelet – Kapri Couture

Luna Necklace + Luna Cuff

Rings – Air/Earth | Strong | Nani | Luna

Nails – Willow Byron Bay (Winter)

Helen

Kimono | Flower crown | Bracelet – Kapri Couture

Luna Necklace + Ananda soul Cuff

Gypsy Belt

Rings – Ananda Soul – Soul Dance | All is Love Aquamarine | Om | Aletheia & Phos Et Cure

Bikini

Skirt

Nails – Willow Byron Bay (Winter) – Use discount code GYPSYLOVINLIGHT at checkout

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.

With love and gratitude,

Helen xx

Helen Janneson Bense

flowers

Every Shade of Blue

May 28, 2017

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Heart of Bali

November 5, 2016

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Celebrating 40

October 10, 2016

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One Love

August 8, 2016

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Dancing in the Rain

September 30, 2015

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Mommy & Me

June 24, 2015

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