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Jack and Vincent’s Oahu venue wedding was nothing short of a love-filled celebration, bringing together the joy of a decade-long journey! With Vincent as a product manager and Jack as a software engineer, their lives were already beautifully intertwined, especially with their energetic twin boys turning 10.

The decision to wed on Oahu was an easy one for this adventurous couple, who had shared countless memories on the island over the years. Their love story, which began over a decade ago as casual acquaintances, took a romantic turn during a music-filled evening in Mountain View. Fast forward to a year of dating, and Vincent’s unforgettable proposal set the stage for a wedding day that would match the same level of romance.

Our Happy Place

Choosing the popular Paradise Cove as their wedding venue, the day unfolded with an intimate and family-oriented atmosphere. Moreover, the little sprinkles in the air added an extra touch of magic, making the day feel even more romantic. Dressed in matching outfits adorned with leis, Jack and Vincent looked not just happy but absolutely fabulous!

Surrounded by the love and well-wishes of friends and family, their joyful ceremony was a testament to their enduring bond. The newlyweds radiated happiness, and everyone present was overjoyed for this special couple!

After the ceremony, Jack and Vincent strolled to the beach for some private moments as newlyweds! It sealed their big day with romantic moments alone. What’s more, their wedding day mirrored the beauty and romance of their proposal, creating a chapter in their love story that will be treasured for years to come!

Congratulations to Jack and Vincent! It was an honor to bring your dream wedding to life on the island you love! We hope you have an amazing time with your family! Lastly, all of us at Simple Oahu Wedding send you lots of love and peace in the decades ahead!

OAHU VENUE WEDDING – EVENT DETAILS

Time Of Day: Sunset

Wedding Venue Location in Oahu: Paradise Cove

Oahu Wedding Package: Paradise Cove Luau Ceremony Package by Simple Oahu Wedding

Onsite Coordinator: Vy & Olivia of Simple Oahu Wedding

Musician: Rodney Bejer

Oahu Officiant: Lindsay ‘Kawena’ Mechler

Wedding Planner in Oahu: Simple Oahu Wedding

Oahu Wedding Florals: Leis by  Sweet Blossoms

Oahu Wedding Photographer: Megan of Karma Hill Photography

We are so excited to share the beautiful day of our wonderful couple, Shelby and Christopher! Their love story led them to the breathtaking island of Oahu for their dream destination wedding. With a shared passion for cooking, music, and outdoor adventures, this couple from Indianapolis decided to seize the opportunity of a family trip to the island to exchange vows and celebrate their love. As they turned the next page, their hearts were filled with joy and excitement. Keep reading to see more magical moments of their Oahu venue wedding!

Priceless Moments

The Royal Hawaiian Golf Club provided a picturesque backdrop for Shelby and Christopher’s wedding ceremony. Nestled among the mountains of Oahu, this private spot in paradise was everything they had dreamed of. Surrounded by their loved ones, they basked in the beauty of their surroundings, knowing that they had found the perfect venue for their special day.

Shelby walked down the aisle with her father; her beauty illuminated the entire venue. Accompanied by Christopher waiting at the altar and their adorable four-month-old son, Oliver, held with her family, their love was palpable. The smiles that adorned their faces spoke volumes about their happiness and the joy they felt at that moment. It was a celebration of love, family, and the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

With heartfelt vows exchanged, Shelby and Christopher sealed their commitment with cheers and hugs from their loved ones. The celebration continued as they ventured through the stunning grounds, capturing newlywed photos amidst the lush tropical scenery. Every shot captured their love and the enchanting ambiance of the island, creating memories of their Oahu venue wedding that will be treasured forever.

Congratulations to Shelby and Christopher as you journey through life hand in hand, embracing every adventure that awaits them! All of us at Simple Oahu Wedding wish you all the love and joy as you begin your next chapter as husband and wife!

OAHU VENUE WEDDING – EVENT DETAILS

Time Of Day: Morning

Oahu Wedding Photographer: Mike from Karma Hill Photography

Wedding Florals: Leis, Custom Bouquet by Sweet Blossoms

Oahu Wedding Venue Location: The Royal Hawaiian Golf Club

Onsite Coordinator: Keani & Ocean of Simple Oahu Wedding

Musician: Manutea Nui E

Oahu Wedding Packages: Venue Wedding Ceremony Package #3 by Simple Oahu Wedding

Oahu Officiant: Kelehua Kawai

Loving their Royal Hawaiian Golf Club Wedding? You’ll love this one! https://simpleoahuwedding.com/arielle-kevin-oahu-venue-wedding/

“How are we not sick of each other yet?” said our darling newlyweds, Meghan and Matthew, before their Oahu venue wedding! These two have been head over heels for each other since the day they met! We love a good love story. Meghan knew they were going to be together the day she met him, and from that day forward, they’ve been inseparable ever since! So it was our pleasure to coordinate their intimate and beautiful wedding…keep reading to see some of our favorite moments from their amazing day!

Surrounded by their nearest and dearest, our sweet couple exchanged their vows to the peaceful sound of the waterfall at Waikiki Leia, one of our beautiful new Oahu wedding venue options! Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood in Waikiki, this lovely Oahu wedding venue has so many beautiful photo opportunities! It’s quiet and intimate but also convenient!

How happy they look! Meghan admitted to us that she is a hopeless romantic (we are too) and is constantly reminded by her big-hearted new husband, Matthew, to appreciate the little things and live in the moment – and they absolutely did at their Oahu venue wedding!

After their beautiful ceremony, we whisked our newlyweds away for a few portraits by the chapel! They have that newlywed glow in these photos! Matthew is a firefighter with the softest heart, and Meghan is a nurse, so they think they both work so well together because they see how fragile life is…So, hand in hand, our beautiful newlyweds are ready to live their life to the fullest as husband and wife!

Congratulations, Meghan and Matthew, on your recent nuptials! We couldn’t be happier for you both! May you continue to grow in love in the years ahead! And we have no doubt about that since you’re crazy for each other! Until we meet again,

OAHU VENUE WEDDING – EVENT DETAILS

Time Of Day: Late Afternoon

Oahu Wedding Package: Simple Oahu Wedding

Oahu Wedding Venue: Waikiki Leia

Florals: Vibrant Rustic Hawaiian Bouquet by Sweet Blossoms Hawaii

Oahu Wedding Photographer: Pinky of Karma Hill Photography

Oahu Officiant: Kimo Taylor

You’ve dreamt of your Oahu destination wedding for as long as you can remember, and now it’s finally here! All you should be worried about is celebrating with your loved ones and saying ‘I do’ with your toes in the sand. However, we understand getting to this point can be a daunting task. To ensure you can savor every minute of this occasion, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about planning a long-distance event. We asked the lead coordinator at Simple Oahu Wedding, Aysha, to spill the secrets on how to make your dream destination wedding in Hawaii a reality. Bon voyage!

Where Should Your Oahu Wedding Planning Start?

You’ve just decided you want to have a destination wedding in Oahu, Hawaii! Now, what are the first steps you need to take?

Start With Guest Count

Aysha said the first and most important step is to determine how many guests you expect to attend your wedding. This number will help you decide between a venue or a beach wedding — especially since there are guest limits for beach weddings.

Select Your Perfect Venue Location

Next, you need to choose the location for your special day: do you want a public beach ceremony or a private venue event? Beach ceremonies are relaxed, no chairs or arches are allowed and they have a twenty-five guest limit due to state permitting restrictions. Therefore, you should consider the number of people you expect to come and if you want more flexibility with arches and seating. If you have more than 25 guests, but still want a beach wedding, we are lucky on Oahu to have several private beach ceremony options so you can have the best of both worlds. The Paradise Cove Luau venue, pictured in this post, and the Kualoa Secret Island Package are examples of private beach ceremonies. When we say private, it doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t see another human as water and beaches are publicly accessible, we mean the portion of the beach you are getting married on is private and therefore does not have to comply with the public beach wedding permit rules. You also have exclusive use of the area your ceremony will be in, but you may see other people on the beach further down.

Your guest count will help you determine if you are eligible for a beach wedding venue. A question you must ask yourself when deciding on a beach or venue wedding is what is the feel you want for your ceremony. A beach wedding needs a “go with the flow” attitude as there are many things beyond our control. Beach conditions, weather, other weddings happening on the same beach, crowded beaches, and music from other beachgoers can and will happen. With a beach wedding, you have no reserved spot, ceremony locations on the beach are on a first-come basis. Our team does its best to find the perfect spot for you away from other people or weddings but we have to work with what the conditions are on the beach that day. The pros of a beach wedding are affordability and being able to have your toes in the sand as you say, “I do” surrounded by beautiful nature. A venue wedding is more costly but offers more control over the variables. Many of our venues offer a rain backup location and you are guaranteed a specific area for your group. You can also add more customizations and have more facilities for your guests such as parking, shade, and restrooms. So whether it will be just the two of you or a wedding with guests, keep in mind the feel you want for your wedding and how much you want to share your wedding space!

Once you have decided on a beach or venue wedding, you can move to the next step in the process, booking your amazing wedding day!

What’s The Easiest Way To Plan a Destination Wedding in Hawaii?

We believe the least stressful way to plan a destination wedding is to work with a local coordinating company! They will be able to get the permits for a beach wedding or book the top venue for you and your guests. In addition, they’re also in contact with the best vendors, and their knowledge of the area is priceless! We understand how complicated it can be to remotely plan an event in Hawaii when you’re unfamiliar with the island. As a result, our Simple Oahu Wedding team is passionate about taking care of every big and small detail for your special day!

How To Choose The Perfect Location

When it comes to your ceremony location, there are endless options! Thankfully, Aysha has excellent advice for couples struggling to pick the perfect place. First things first, think about how you want your wedding to look! After this, find spaces that best match this vision and go from there. Second, keep your budget and guest count in mind.

In this post, we have featured the Paradise Cove Luau venue because it’s a beautiful ocean-front venue. We adore planning weddings here because it’s full of breathtaking scenery! Most importantly, we wanted to show off this site and all the exquisite options this spot has to offer. At this venue, you get the lovely benefits of a beach wedding but still can have chairs and decorations.

Not to mention, Paradise Cove Luau has sweeping ocean views and more privacy — making it perfect for intimate ceremonies! Lastly, it has the best luau on Oahu. This event is an impeccable option for your reception since it has food, drinks, and entertainment in one place!

It’s All About The Right Timing

Choosing the perfect day is one of the many hurdles couples will face when planning their destination wedding. Luckily, if you get married in Hawaii, you can never go wrong! In Aysha’s professional opinion, she says any time of the year is the best time to tie the knot in this tropical paradise. Whether you choose Oahu or another island — every location has beautiful weather year-round! On the other hand, if you want to research the perfect date, look at you and your guests’ schedules.

Working With People You Can Count On

One of the most important parts of planning a destination wedding is finding vendors and a coordinator you can trust! When researching coordinators and vendors, Aysha says to ensure they are within your budget and offer services that fit your wants and needs.

For example, our team worked with Designs by Hemmingway for florals at this styled shoot. She is one of the best on the island because she makes any flower inspiration a reality! We love her dreamy, unique, and outside-of-the-box designs. For this reason, she is a bit pricier than other florists on Oahu. Yet, we used the arch provided by Paradise Cove Luau instead of renting one, so we could use our extra budget to get Debbie Hemmingway’s floral magic!

Keeping Your Destination Wedding In Hawaii Budget Friendly

Luckily, this isn’t the only way to save money when having a destination wedding! There are a few things Aysha says you can do to keep your celebration cost-efficient. First, you could contact a room block specialist and get hotel rooms at a discounted rate. Instead of a big reception, you could have dinner at a nearby restaurant after your ceremony with us. 

Above all, the main advice Aysha would give to couples trying to stay within a budget is to prioritize! Figure out the most important details you want at your wedding. For example, if flowers are most important, then you might opt out of having a musician or get a family member to perform.

Making Your Day More “You”

The day you tie the knot should reflect you, your significant other, and your relationship beautifully. Whether you have a beach or venue wedding, styling is an essential aspect of it! Aysha says the secret to having a creative and cohesive design is sticking with a color scheme. Do you want something soft with pastel tones or bright and tropical? Once you determine a palette, choosing an arch and florals will be a breeze! Although the great thing about Hawaii is the breathtaking backdrop — any decoration you choose will enhance the natural beauty!

If you need a little inspiration, use this styled shoot and our past weddings on our blog! Aysha loves the “Old Hawaii” look of Paradise Cove and the feel of the luau. For this session, she wanted to stay true to this aesthetic! The flowers chosen are local Hawaiian blooms; the florists even cut the bougainvillea the same day. Then Aysha wanted bright shades to contrast with the ivory sand and late morning lighting. This styling is modern and tropical — it effortlessly shows off this stunning venue!

If you’re still not sure whether you want to plan an Oahu destination wedding or not — this is your sign to do it! There are endless possibilities when it comes to having weddings in paradise. Most importantly, our team at Simple Oahu Wedding will make sure your day is flawless from start to finish. Not only will you be able to savor a new experience, but you can also enjoy your time with your loved ones. Lastly, we hope you found these tips helpful; remember planning your special day should be fun!

Oahu Destination Wedding Styled-Shoot – Session Details

Time of Day: Midday

Oahu Wedding Photographer: Megan from Karma Hill Photography

Oahu Venue Wedding Packages: Simple Oahu Wedding

Onsite Coordinator: Oli from Simple Oahu Wedding

Wedding Florals: Designs by Hemmingway

Arch & Chairs: Provided By Venue

Check out another wedding at Paradise Cove Luau here! Looking for family portraits in Hawaii, click the link to find Big Island family photographers for your special time in Kona, Hawaii.

Kaya and Bradley were supposed to tie the knot in 2020. However, they had to postpone their special day until 2022. This ceremony was intimate, romantic, and memorable. Above all, we know our charming couple’s Oahu elopement was worth the wait! Continue scrolling to experience this event for yourself.

Wai’alae Beach Park was the location for this ceremony, and this spot created a breathtaking scene! The soaring palm trees, cerulean waves, and long sandy seaside exquisitely decorated the background. Then the heavy cloud coverage and soft breeze enhanced the dreamy ambiance! Most importantly, the lush greenery surrounding Kaya and Bradley made this elopement look like a tropical fairytale! Keep scrolling to see more.

Why We Love Their Oahu Elopement

This getaway was Kaya and Bradley’s first time in Hawaii. They made this vacation unforgettable by commemorating their love on the island! When it was time for their ceremony to begin, our stunning duo arrived at the beach together. Not to mention, this delightful duo looks beautiful! Our bride looks gorgeous in her elegant and chic gown, while Bradley’s attire is sharp and sleek. Lastly, our favorite thing about this elopement is how joyful Kaya and Bradley look. Karma Hill Photography captured our radiant newlywed’s blissful glow in every portrait!

Our Couple’s Story

Kaya and Bradley first met one another while attending school. Currently, this passionate pair has been together for thirteen years! In 2019, Bradley found the perfect time to propose on a rooftop bar in Bangkok, Thailand! After getting engaged in such a captivating destination, we can’t imagine a better way to get married. Most of all, Kaya and Bradley’s Oahu elopement was just as magical as the moment Bradley popped the question!

Congratulations, Kaya and Bradley! Thank you for letting us be part of your romantic day. We wish you a future full of new adventures and quality time with your friends!

Oahu Elopement – Session Details

Time of Day: Morning

Oahu Venue Location: ​​Wai’alae Beach Park

Oahu Wedding Photographers: Mike from Karma Hill Photography

Wedding Planners in Oahu: Simple Oahu Wedding

Onsite Coordinator: Oli from Simple Oahu Wedding

Oahu Minister: Kahu Kawena Mechler

Wedding Florals: Boho Dream Bouquet by Sweet Blossoms Hawaii

Check out another wedding in Oahu here!

When Kailey and James planned their special day, they fell in love with the blog posts on Simple Maui Wedding. Once they realized similar services were available on other islands — they knew an Oahu beach elopement was for them! Scroll down to see this intimate affair for yourself!

The Oahu Beach Elopement

Kahu Kawena Mechler officiated this sunset wedding on the shores of Papailoa. This north Oahu beach set the perfect backdrop for their special day. In every picture captured by Karma Hill Photography, you can see how breathtaking this location was! We love how the ivory sand, cerulean water, and sensational lava rocks decorate the background exquisitely. Above all, every photo looks like a fairytale!

Our Couple’s Story

Kailey and James met when they were freshmen in college. They have been inseparable ever since the first day of the semester! In 2016, James asked Kailey to marry him. She said yes, but also no because they weren’t quite ready yet. Our lovely couple circled back to the question after they finished college and started their careers. Then in 2020, they publicly got engaged!

This occasion was our gorgeous couple’s first time in Hawaii! They were most excited to make this visit more remarkable with their wedding and honeymoon.

Since Kailey and James are an adventurous duo, eloping in Oahu was right up their alley! Most importantly, we’re glad we were able to be part of their delightful wedding day!

Currently, they moved to a new city and just recently finished settling in. We can’t wait to see what pictures they hang on the walls of their new home! There are so many enchanting shots to choose from!

Congratulations Kailey and James! It was a pleasure to be part of your elopement. We wish you a future full of free time in your ‘87 Volkswagen Westfalia!

Oahu Beach Elopement – Session Details

Time of Day: Sunset

Oahu Wedding Photographer: Megan from Karma Hill Photography

Beach Location in Oahu: Papailoa Beach

Oahu Wedding Packages: Simple Oahu Wedding

Onsite Coordinator: Oli from Simple Oahu Wedding

Oahu Minister: Kahu Kawena Mechler

Wedding Florals: Boho Dream Bouquet by Sweet Blossom Hawaii

Hair and Makeup: Faith & Beauty Hawaii

Check out another wedding in Hawaii here: https://simpleoahuwedding.com/stefany-davids-beach-wedding-in-oahu/

It was a glistening day on the Leeward side for Demi and Nicholas’s beautiful wedding in Oahu. Paradise Cove beach was vivid with a light tropical breeze that kept the event relaxing and comfortable. We were thrilled to be a part of this couple’s special day!

The Wedding in Oahu

Reverend Kimo Taylor began the event with the beautiful deep sound of the Hawaiian conch. Demi made her entrance wearing an elegant off-the-shoulder boho gown with a flowing mermaid train. We loved how her island look came together with a tropical flower crown and rustic Hawaiian bouquet. Nicholas stood by, wearing his military dress uniform and unable to contain his smile as he watched the love of his life walk down the sandy aisle. These two were meant to be!

Our Couple’s Story

Demi and Nicholas met in grad school, but they didn’t hit it off right away. The magic moment came five years later when he reached out and the spark was lit! Nicholas has two kids from a previous relationship and Demi says, “They’re great!” Demi and Nicholas aren’t just tying their own lives together, they’re also joining their families. Keep scrolling for all the beautiful moments!

Mahalo nui loa, Demi and Nicholas, for selecting us to coordinate your beautiful wedding. It was a gorgeous day and you were a joy to work with. We wish you all the happiness and bright days ahead! 

HAWAII WEDDING – SESSION DETAILS

Time of Day: Sunset

Oahu Wedding Photographer: Megan from Karma Hill Photography

Oahu Beach Wedding Location: Paradise Cove Beach

Wedding Planner: Simple Oahu Wedding

Onsite Coordinator: Kalinda of Simple Oahu Wedding

Wedding Officiant: Kahu Kimo Taylor

Wedding Florals: Rustic Hawaiian Bouquet by Sweet Blossoms Hawaii

Hair and Makeup: Face Art Beauty

Check out another recent Oahu ceremony here: https://simpleoahuwedding.com/eric-ivonnes-oahu-venue-wedding/

After months of mandatory quarantine and shuttered hotels, we’re happy to learn that beginning on October 15th, 2020, the Hawaii Government will be welcoming visitors who test negative for COVID-19 to our islands! That means more happy couples and more beautiful Oahu weddings!

If you’re planning to travel to Hawaii during COVID-19, follow along and we’ll help you understand the regulations and avoid the quarantine.

Here’s a quick overview of what you need to know for all travel to Hawaii during COVID-19:

• Get Tested for COVID-19 72 hours before travel
• Plan for additional precautions at the airport
• Consider your guests

For a very detailed Q&A from the Hawaii State Government please visit The Department of Health Travel Frequently Asked Questions Page.

Now let’s break it down, so you can start planning your dream wedding in Hawaii.

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Get Tested For COVID-19 Before Traveling to Hawaii

Beginning on October 15th, Hawaii COVID-19 travel restrictions will require documentation of a negative COVID-19 test in order to avoid the Hawaii quarantine.

Here’s a checklist to help you travel to Hawaii during COVID-19, so you can relax and start dreaming of your big day:

• If you travel to Hawaii before October 15th you will have to quarantine for 14 days, regardless of any testing you completed before traveling.

• You must take the test no more than 3 days (72 hours) BEFORE arriving in Hawaii – no commercial testing will be provided at the airport
  • All travelers of all ages subject to pre-test requirement
  • Individuals will be responsible for testing costs
  • After testing and before your flight, please practice social distancing and self-quarantine to help keep our islands healthy!

• You must take the test PRIOR to traveling. You will have to still quarantine for 14 days, even with a negative test result once in Hawaii if you do not take the test prior to traveling.
• You will need to have your RESULTS by the time you fly.
  • However, some tests can take between 3 – 4 days, so plan accordingly and ask your provider for their standard delivery timeline
• If the results are not ready by the time you leave, you must quarantine until your test results come in and are negative. If you do not want to test or are unable to test, you will be required to quarantine for 14 days. If your trip is less than 14 days, you must quarantine for the duration of your trip.
  • During quarantine, you can only leave your accommodation for a medical emergency, you can NOT go out to get food or go to the beach
  • Violating the quarantine can incur a $5,000 fine and/or a year of imprisonment.
  • So get tested for COVID-19 to enjoy your Hawaii vacay!

• CLIA is the federal regulatory system for regulating laboratory testing
• An antibody test will NOT be accepted

Currently approved trusted testing partners are: CVS and Kaiser Permanente. Trusted testing partners are entities that understand exactly what the State requires in terms of this program. Additionally, the state will accept test results from other sources so long as they meet the testing parameters set forth by the DOH, which are an FDA-approved NAAT test processed by a CLIA-certified lab.

Whether through CVS, Kaiser or another source, it is the traveler’s responsibility to confirm they are receiving the correct test.

Keep scrolling for more info on how to travel to Hawaii during COVID-19.

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Plan for Additional Precautions at the Airport

Even after you’re tested, there will still be more safety measures to ensure you can avoid the Hawaii quarantine and any additional COVID-19 travel restrictions. Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect at the airport.

✦ You’ll need to complete a travel declaration form either printed or online

✦ You’ll complete a health screening prior to boarding your flight here and again when you land

✦ If you have a fever before boarding, you may be prohibited from boarding the flight

✦ If you have a fever when you arrive to Hawaii, you will receive a further medical assessment

✦ You will also have to show your completed health form again after arriving at Hawaii

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What Does This Mean For You and Your Guests?

First off, this means your dream wedding in Hawaii is about to happen!! We’re jumping for joy along with you! Take a moment to do a cartwheel or two, and then glance over these few other considerations:

• Begin making plans to get your Coronavirus test, though wait until we get a little more details from the government as September 1 gets closer (depending on your travel date)
• All travelers must be tested, including children.
• Find out if your insurance will cover the test if it’s for travel
• Make sure all your guests have all the rules so they’re prepared
• You will need to wear a mask at the airport and on your airplane as well at most Hawaii retailers
• There may be guest count restrictions from the state, be sure to check with your coordinator for the most up to date information.

Not sure if a wedding in Hawaii is within your budget? It’s much more affordable than you think! Come read our comprehensive article: Hawaii Destination Wedding Cost – Ceremony, Lodging & Airfare

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This Also Means You May Want to Adjust Your Guest Count

So why not consider a small wedding or even eloping in Hawaii?

Having an Oahu beach elopement is a beautiful way to celebrate your love. We understand that it may not be exactly what you’ve hoped for, but limiting your guest count to only a handful of friends and family may keep your loved ones healthy.

Many couples are opting for a very small celebration in the short term, with plans to host a larger celebration back home when it is safe.

To help you bridge the distance, we’ve created elopement enhancements that can be added to all of our Oahu wedding packages. With these add-ons, a professional videographer will record or live-stream your wedding so your guests back home will be part of the special moment! We can even send them leis! This way, if you decide to elope, your guests will be cheering you on in style!

So as you begin planning your gorgeous ceremony day around your travel to Hawaii during COVID-19 regulations, browse the amazing wedding photos below and remind yourself – SOON THIS WILL BE YOU! And we can’t wait to meet you and your special someone!

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us!

Keep checking back because we’ll keep this post updated as soon as any information changes!