Helen Janneson Bense: Australia

I still remember the day I opened the email from Free People inviting me to Sydney for their FPme Australia experience! I was jumping for joy in my computer chair and dancing my happy dance :) Then to discover I could bring along one of my best friends, Nat from Melbourne, who I hadn’t seen in sooooo long! It was seriously a dream come true.

From beginning to end, this was the dreamiest, most amazing experience of my life. I could not be more honoured and grateful to Free People for the opportunity and experience.

Here’s a little about our day, and a collection of my behind the scenes photos along with some amazing photos taken by Katrina Parker who was our beautiful photographer on the day.

Awaiting us upon arrival to Sydney – the most gracious host we could ever have wished for, the hallway lined with racks of free people clothing, jewelry, accessories all ready for us to style, delicious healthy food to feast upon, and an incredible inspirational space with every single detail taken care of.

We spent quite a few hours giggling, styling, connecting while we discovered our looks for the FPme shoot and the pop up shop opening night. This was more fun than I’ve had in a long time. Sharing it with a bunch of awesome girls who love style and free people as much as I do, was simply the BEST!

That night we got all dressed up for the pop up shop opening, where I had the chance to meet so many gorgeous artists that have been a part of my insta-family for so long. A wonderful night of connection, laughter, and shopping of course! ;)

SHOP Dress, Necklace, Hat, Belt, Bra

We arose bright and early the following morning as we readied ourselves for a full day of photoshoots. This was such an exhilarating moment. The entire day I felt like a tourist, seeing more of Sydney than I ever had before. The bondi to bronte walk was by far my favourite. To be right by the ocean and watch all the different shades of blue mix together like tie-dye was magic. Hanging out with the FPme girls, enjoying breakfast, lunch, laughs and getting to know one another as we were shooting, was the time of my life. No work involved whatsoever!

SHOP Tee, Flares, Bomber, Bra, Hat

After this amazing exploration of the coast we changed into our lunch outfits and strolled the wintery streets of Sydney, followed by a nourishing and delicious lunch at the Book Kitchen. We also just happen to come across an old Valiant as it pulled up at the crosswalk. The owners happily accommodated us with a chance to photograph inside this iconic car. Such a wonderful spontaneous moment fuelled so much excitement and joy.

SHOP Dress, Shoes, Hat

And the magnificent finale for the day – watching the sun set over sydney from the most beautiful view I’ve ever seen of the city. I took a deep breath in this moment to relish in the beauty of this very special day and all the precious connections I had made.

Mallory, Jessica, Aly, Amanda, Kate, Me, Miann, Nat