Hawaii Weddings

When Jose Villa and Jill La Fleur hold a workshop, beautiful things happen.  Amazingly beautiful things. Like gorgeous displays of floral perfection from Flowerwild, a cake (almost) too pretty to eat from Maggie Austin Cake and these mesmerizing images from the oh-so-fabulous Wendy Laurel, who never EVER fails to steal our hearts with each and every photo she takes.  All set against a breathtaking Haiku Mill backdrop and featuring one stop-you-in-your-tracks moment after another, this, my friends, is a day chock-full of inspiration and a whole lot of pretty.  See so much more right here.

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From Wendy Laurel… Jose Villa and Jill La Fleur led a workshop for photographers on Maui at Haiku Mill. It was beautiful event with tons of details. I was an attendee and these are my photographs of the workshop. Mahalo!

Photography: Wendy Laurel / Venue: Haiku Mill in Haiku, Maui, Hawaii / Coordination: La Fleur Weddings and Events / Workshop Leader: Jose Villa / Floral Design: Flowerwild / Cinematography: Joel Serrato Films / Catering: Maui Executive Catering / Wedding Cake: Maggie Austin Cake / Desserts: Dolce Bakery Boutique / Stationery: Ceci New York + Pitbulls and Posies / Musical Entertainment: The Throwdowns / Art: Karina Puente / Rentals: Island Rents / Linen Rentals: La Tavola / Wedding Dress: Elizabeth Fillmore / Accessories: Jannie Baltzer / Jewelry: Karen Lindner Designs / Beauty: TEAM Hair and Makeup / Other Contributors: Robyn + Hali’i Iaea of Pacific Weddings, Angela Marcaccio of Richard Photo Lab, Casa de Perrin, Marty Dread, Garnish Events + Manutea Nui E

Oh, Maui…could you be any more gorgeous with lush landscapes + picturesque beaches? I think not. Every single image by Tamiz Photography capturing this fairytale destination wedding is filled with perfect light and so much LOVE!  La Fleur Weddings & Events + Dellables piled on the pretty in the bride’s “lilac + lemonade” color palette and I can’t  help but smile at the maid’s flouncy White by Vera Wang dresses! There is so much more to see (and swoon over) in the full gallery!

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From the Bride… Although Ben and I briefly met through work over a decade ago in Taiwan, we would not have the chance to become close friends until many years later. Through several twists of fate, we fell in love in New York City, and Ben ended up proposing to me over a rainbow as we flew over Niagara Falls in a helicopter! I had always dreamed of having a wedding that is both modern and intimate. As Ben and I had friends and family scattered all over the world, we wanted our wedding to be memorable and worth traveling for. After doing extensive research, I fell in love with the magnificent Oceanside Wedding Chapel and grounds of the Grand Wailea Resort in Maui, Hawaii.

I was also lucky to find the right vendors that I had envisioned for the important day. Jill LaFleur provided thoughtful inspirations to complement my desire to have a “Lilac and Lemonade” color palette for my wedding, in the form of delicate Hawaiian table decorations and the elegant lemonade stand. Della Peacock personally presented me with the bridal bouquet of my dreams, featuring some of my favorite flowers, from David Austin roses to peonies. Mira did an incredible job with all our hair as well as makeup and made the mood of the day light and full of laughter. All the exquisite flowers, pretty decorations and wonderful emotions were beautifully captured by Rebecca and Jonathan from Tamiz Photography. I could not have asked for a better team for my wedding.

For the ceremony, we were fortunate to have had such a gorgeous day! It was a comfortably breezy 75 degrees with barely a cloud in the sky. The chapel location was as beautiful as we had imagined with our decorated chuppah overlooking the deep blue ocean. It was such a very happy day for both us as we celebrated our nuptials in front of nearly 50 friends and family who had traveled from all over the world to share our special moment. We both feel very lucky to have each other and to have the ones we loved the most bear witness to our matrimony in a place that will always be memorable in our hearts.

Wedding Photography: Tamiz Photography / Wedding Venue: Grand Wailea Resort in Wailea, Maui, Hawaii / Floral Design: Della Peacock of Dellables / Styling + Design: Jill La Fleur of La Fleur Weddings & Events / Menus: Pitbulls and Posies / Wedding Dress: Huang Shu Chi / Bride’s Shoes: Manolo Blahnik / Bride’s Jewelry: Nadri / Bride’s Garter: Bleu Garters / Hair + Makeup: Maui MiRa / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: White by Vera Wang / Robe: Natori / Men’s Suits: Yves Saint Laurent / Groom’s Shoes + Tie: Hugo Boss / Wedding Rings: Tiffany & Co.

Maui, Maui, Maui. When will your lovely landscapes ever stop stealing my heart away? Judging from my fluttering heartbeat, it looks like it will be no time soon and that is perfectly alright with me. This wedding from Anna Kim Photography is equal parts charming, adorable, and oh-so-beautiful and definitely causing some serious gushing over here. Nestled amongst the gorgeous monstera leaves and orchids backdrop from Maui Floral on the jaw-dropping Molokini Lookout, every bit of this wedding is well-deserving of some (and by some, I mean quite a few) moments of your Monday morning to be spent in our gallery right here.

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From the Bride… Having grown up in Maui before moving to California to pursue college and a career, I always dreamed I would have a Maui wedding. I remember Ted mentioning before we were together that he would want a destination wedding, so when we started talking about our wedding plans, it was a given that we would get married in Maui. With my parents in Maui to help with the planning on island, we chose not to hire a coordinator and most of our vendors ended up being family friends or referrals from close friends. We wanted a setting that featured the beauty of Maui while still being private. After visiting Molokini Lookout, there was no question that we wanted to be married there atop the hill looking out at the Pacific with Molokini, Kahoolawe and the West Maui Mountains as our backdrop — it was just stunning and peaceful that it felt very spiritual, despite not having our ceremony in a church. Gannon’s restaurant also provided the chic, island vibe we were going for with its modern Red Bar and beautiful open-air dining room. The ease of having our reception at a reputable restaurant with food by one of Maui’s greatest chefs and a location that provided everything for the evening took a lot of the stress away from the sometimes daunting task of planning a destination wedding.

It was really important to us to make sure our guests made the most of their time on Maui and enjoyed all the island has to offer. We welcomed our family and friends to Hawaii with a luau at the Polynesian Village and gifted each out-of-town guests with a welcome bag full of Maui treats, beach necessities and travel info handpicked and assembled by Ted and me. We wanted the wedding style to be elegant yet casual, focusing on the beauty of Hawaii and natural decor. From day one, I knew I wanted monstera leaves and orchids throughout the wedding decor, and the monstera leaf became our central design element in our stationery and floral design. The other key element in our decor was wood. My father is an artist and works with wood, so Ted and I worked with my father to incorporate this natural and meaningful element to the wedding design. Using native monkey pod wood from Maui, my father made all of the vases for our centerpieces, display trays for our escort cards, the monstera leaf ring tray and the base for our wedding cake. These wood elements helped us to complete our laid-back yet elegant Hawaii style, and having my father’s touch throughout our wedding decor added a unique and sentimental element.

With such an amazing view, we kept the ceremony decor simple with white orchids leis lining the aisles and draped from our bamboo archway with our monstera leaf accent. The lookout point had enjoyed a nice cloud cover all day, but just as we were to begin our late afternoon ceremony, the sun came out, and our guests made wonderful use of our fan-shaped programs and parasols. Our officiant opened the ceremony with a Hawaiian chant and blessing, and we did a traditional Hawaiian lei exchange as well. Our reception was held just below the lookout point at Gannon’s Restaurant. The food was delicious, and DJ Blast of Chill Town Productions, who happened to be the same DJ at my youth dances and prom, was amazing and had the dance floor full the whole night! With a few breaks for great speeches, the obligatory bouquet and garter tosses, and dessert of guava and lilikoi wedding cake and Gannon’s amazing chocolate cups, the energy of the celebration was just great, and it was so rewarding to see everyone enjoying themselves. Our DJ ended the night by playing Iz’s “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and having all of our family and friends make a circle around Ted and me — the memory of our closest loved ones singing that song to us it is a memory we will always cherish.

Wedding Photography: Anna Kim Photography / Ceremony: Molokini Lookout in Wailea, Maui, Hawaii / Reception: Gannon’s in Wailea, Maui, Hawaii / Floral Design: Maui Floral / Officiant: Rev. Joe Miles / Wedding Stationery: Sugar Press Invitations & Stationery / Ceremony Music: Kanoa / DJ: Edward Gallartia of Chill Town Productions / Favors: Maui Macaroons / Wedding Dress: Casablanca Bridal / Hair: Sugandha Ferro Black / Makeup: Heather Green of On Location Styling / Sunglasses: Oakley

The weather is getting cooler and the leaves are changing colors, but the weddings? The weddings are still pretty as can be. That will never change. We will always be here to report the latest stunning soiree for you. And when the end of the week comes, we will have one more shot of love to send you away into your weekend. This week, it comes from Hawaii by way of Anna Kim Photography, and it is one super gorgeous engagement shoot. The perfect parting shot. See you Monday, my loves! xoxo

Click here to see the full image gallery!

This gorgeous week, pretty as can be lined up for you:

a super romantic English highlight film
a bit of gorgeous inspiration with gorgeous florals in Philadelphia
an oh-my-goodness pretty Michigan theater wedding
a Colorado bridal boudoir shoot that is blush worthy & gorgeous
a winter soiree straight from Chicago that is be-yond
a Virginia vineyard affair that is as beautiful as can be
a sweet Hawaiian wedding with so, so much love
an artsy fête in St. Louis that is uber cool + super romantic
a Pennsylvania soiree with so much personality, you can’t help but love it
a pretty in pink + oh so very classic Long Island wedding

A few little links we’re loving (and think you might too!):

a Homemade pumpkin frozen yogurt recipe just for you via Babble
a few fab ways to dress up your pumpkins (perfect for a centerpiece!) via Chatelaine
a gorgeous California wedding with a rainbow of bridesmaids via Green Wedding Shoes

Brides + Grooms to be – Don’t forget about our LBB! This week’s Don’t Miss List spotlights our Little Black Book VIPs who take the stress out of planning your big day. In between saying “Yes!” and exchanging “I do’s,” plan to perfect your soiree with the professionals WE couldn’t live without.

Start your party planning right with the stationer who can set the perfect tone for your wedding. Our Little Black Book has some of the best in the biz, like Lazaro Press & Design, A Day In May Design, Fuzzynk Design Studio, AJK Papery and so many more. Next, you might want to tour a few phenom venues, might we suggest The Clear Creek Group?

If design elements are next on your list, make sure to stop into our LBB. We’ve got some amazing floral designers, event stylists & designers, and rental companies in there. Branch Out Floral and Event Design, Bash, and Isari Flower Studio are just a few of the fabulous professionals you can find in our LBB. And we’ve got you covered when it comes to, well, keeping you covered in the most chic way. Nika Vaughan, Makeup Artist, Olia, and Something White Bridal are all rockstars in our fashion & beauty sections.

And when it comes to capturing your big day, we’ve got you covered there. If you’re looking for a phenom photographer – Millie Holloman Photography, MIMMO & CO, Open Image Studio, Orchard Cove Photography, STAK Photographer Duo, Steve Steinhardt Photography, and Stevie Ramos Photography are all FAB.

You’ll be dancing your newlywed heart out with our LBB entertainment members. Affairs to Remember DJ Entertainment, Extreme Productions Entertainment, LLC, and DJ William Ryan all know how to make it a night for everyone to remember.

Last, but certainly not least, when you visit our LBB you can have your cake and eat it to with cake designers just like Sweet Heather Anne, Sweet Cakes by Rebecca, Jewell Events Catering, and Pure Joy Catering!

I have a real soft spot in my heart for the magnificent tropical flower that is the calla lily. They are so uniquely beautiful that they completely capture me heart and soul every time I get a glimpse of their lustrous petals. And when they’re amidst the palm trees and ocean shore of the Olowalu Plantation House in Maui? Pure, unadulterated magic. See all of the impossibly gorgeous images from Joanna Tano Photography in our gallery right here.

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From Joanna Tano Photography… Stephanie and Jasper’s wedding was simply stunning! Family and friends traveled from the mainland and Taiwan to celebrate their special day. With a combination of the breathtaking beauty at Olowalu Plantation House, watermelon and pistachio wedding colors, and White Orchid Wedding orchestrating the event, their wedding was perfection! Many thanks to Jenna Strubhar for shooting with me.

Wedding Photography: Joanna Tano Photography / Second Photographer: Jenna Strubhar / Wedding Venue: Olowalu Plantation House in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii / Coordination: A White Orchid Wedding, Inc. / Catering: Catering from Soup to Nuts / Wedding Dress: Wtoo “Jemma” / Bride’s Shoes: Glint “Radiance” / Hair + Makeup: Regina Campisi

Mmm… Hawaii. Just the name evokes such a sophisticated, yet relaxed atmosphere perfect for a wedding filled with absolute joy, romantic love, and style for miles thanks to Seasons of Life Events. With Frank Amodo Photography behind the lens, this wedding was bound to be perfection from the start, and it does not disappoint. See for yourself in the full image gallery!

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From Seasons of Life Events … Chiyo and Joseph’s wedding was a sophisticated intimate celebration at an oceanfront Waikiki resort. Both are cycling enthusiasts and competitors so we infused their passion of cycling into their wedding invitation suite. Their monogram was designed after the gears on a bicycle  and used throughout their decor. Joseph is a fine wine connoisseur so their favors to their guests were bottles of wine created by Joseph with a custom label.

From the start Chiyo knew she wanted the color palette to be white and green. Getting to know them, we realized that we had to create a design that would be clean and sophisticated and something that would match their design esthetic. We incorporated capiz shells into their ceremony and in their venue space. We created symmetry with their table decor and added a lot of candlelight and soft uplighting. In order to create intimacy, we divided up the space with fabric to create a lounge that guests could sneak away to.

Chiyo and Joseph blended their families together by exchanging family bracelets during their ceremony and by lighting a family unity candle to start off their reception. The couple then took their candle and lit a single tall candle that was at each guest table to share in the significance of their wedding with each guest that travelled from around the world to celebrate with them. International ukulele virtuoso, Jake Shimabukuru entertained guests throughout dinner and played a special song for Chiyo and Joseph’s first dance. Dinner was a fine dining experience with each course paired with a specially chosen wine. A tropical ntermezzo set the stage for a decedent dessert plate.  You can get a glimpse of their sense of humor from their bobble head cake topper. Joseph’s son shared a toast to his new family and tears and laughter filled the night. 

Photography: Frank Amodo Photography / Design and Coordination: Seasons of Life Events / Flowers: Easley Designs / Printed Materials: Bradley Lily / Linens: Les Saison / Rentals: Pacific Party Rentals / Venue: Halekulani Hotel / Harp: Harp Hawaii / Emcee: Dynamic Sounds / Entertainment: Jake Shimabukuro / Hair and Makeup: Maleana / Cinematography: Fisheye Studio

Ah, yes. I’ll take a healthy dose of this wedding in all of its pure loveliness by Belle Destination Weddings & Events. Here is a whole day that appears to be so completely wrapped in sunlight that you can almost feel the Hawaii warmth on your skin as you’re perusing our gallery. And it’s all thanks to Anna Kim Photography for capturing the oceanside beauty that is this wedding at Hale Honu in Maui. See so much more beachy goodness in the gallery right here.

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From Anna Kim Photography… Katie and Eric got married at the gorgeous Hale Honu private estate in Makena, Maui. Their classy event overlooked the ocean and was full of modern and thoughtful details. After the ceremony, guests were escorted to the large deck that was transformed into a lounge for their cocktail hour. The decor was modern with hints of lavender and white. Guests were treated to signature cocktails  while a Dj spun some loungy tunes.  After the sunset, the candle lit reception began in the romantic pool cabana area.  Dancing and dessert was served on the top deck where guests could snuggle on a lounge chair with warm blankets provided by the bride while they enjoyed the dancing tunes and watched the stars. It was truly a stylish and romantic wedding! Enjoy.

Wedding Photography: Anna Kim Photography / Wedding Venue: Hale Honu in Wailea, Maui / Event Planning: Belle Destination Weddings & Events / Floral Design: Bella Bloom Floral Boutique / Catering: Maui Executive Catering / Wedding Cake: Maui Sweet Cakes / Bar: Garnish Events / Wedding Stationery: Bella Figura / Calligraphy + Seating Display: Miss B Calligraphy / DJ: Scott Doran of Maui DJ Services / Rentals + Lighting: Pacific Isle Rentals / Lounge Furniture + Linens: Pacific Event Group / Wedding Dress: Jim Hjelm “8002” / Hair + Makeup: Mira Carman of Maui MiRa

I have to admit that almost anything with Hawaii in the title is just about a guarantee to wow my tropic loving heart, and that holds true with this lovely wedding as everything inside of me is ooh-ing and ahh-ing at each image from Simply Rose Photography. I’m still reeling from the amazingness that is this bride’s custom dress by The Cotton Bride and all of those graceful, romantic images on that lovely Oahu beach. And let’s be real, I’ll take anything that has to do with those Givenchy shoes. See it all in our gallery right here.

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From Simply Rose Photography… Noreen and Jeremy’s sun-drenched wedding was held at the Turtle Bay Resort on the famous North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. Everything about this day was overwhelmingly lovely — from the glitzy, glittery Givenchy heels to the delicate floral centerpieces that Tamara Rigney designed for the reception tables. No detail was left to chance or overly done. The couple’s impeccable taste and style were woven throughout the day, and the backdrop of sand and blue waters were a perfect complement to their easy-going personalities. The day was beyond memorable — the location was stunning, the couple was so wonderful, and family and friends were so warm and inviting. It was the perfect wedding!

Wedding Photography: Simply Rose Photography / Wedding Venue: Turtle Bay Resort in Kahuku, Oahu, Hawaii / Floral Design: Tamara Rigney Designs / Officiant: Kahu Bruce (kahupuluke@aol.com) / Ceremony Music: Randy Allen Music / Wedding Dress: Custom by The Cotton Bride / Bride’s Heels: Givenchy / Bride’s Flats: Vera Wang Lavender / Bride’s Bracelet: A Thrift Shop / Bride’s Earrings + Wedding Band: Catbird / Hair + Makeup: Sarah la GLAM / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Designed by the Bride’s Sister, Irene Chiu + Made in Hong Kong / Groom’s Shoes: CVB Shoes / Groom’s Shirt: Michael Kors / Groom’s Wedding Band: Michael Dean Jewellery / Thank You Card: Jamie Irene

I’m pretty sure that when every little girl dreams about her big day, the words Maui and Ritz-Carlton are both high on her list of wishes, right alongside a dashing prince and a beautiful white gown. Well, SMPers, Wendy Laurel would send those little girls right to the moon and back with this little number that is full of that amazing warm Hawaii sunlight and clothed in luxury and elegance. See all of the dreamy goodness in the gallery right here.

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From Wendy Laurel… What happens when a big Italian family and a big Mexican family get together on Maui? A colorful and fun-filled wedding with a lot of toasting and even more dancing. Victoria and Jai chose to fly away to Maui for their marriage and brought along all their family and friends. If the party was this big as a destination wedding, imagine how big it would have been if they stayed home. Must be why they choose to get married overlooking the ocean on the cliffs of Kapalua and have a beautiful reception outside next to the beach.

Wedding Photography: Wendy Laurel / Assistant Photographer: Patrice Carlton / Wedding Venue + Coordination: The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua in Kapalua, Maui, Hawaii / Floral Design: ASA Flowers / Officiant: Rev. Joe Miles / Reception DJ: DJ Dan / Hair + Makeup: The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua

When you live in Hawaii, you need not go far for a drop dead gorgeous destination wedding. And that’s exactly what these adorable love birds did. They headed to the secluded North Shore, away from all the hustle and bustle of their home base of Honolulu, and invited only their nearest and dearest for an intimate and unforgettable ceremony. Sarah DeShaw Photography captured all the pretty details like the gorgeous all-white flowers and the yummy Kona coffee favors and you can see all the rest right here!

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From the Bride… We met in 2004 at Duke University during a two-week summer program right before our senior year of high school. We hit it off and continued to talk after the program was over and started dating long-distance between Arizona (where Julia lived) and Iowa (where Matt lived) in the fall of 2004. Julia decided to go to the University of Iowa, and we continued to date for the next seven years. We got engaged on the beach in Hawaii in April 2011 while we were planning our move from Iowa to Hawaii. Our wedding included 52 guests from all around the world. (For example, the bridesmaids were from Iowa, Arizona, Georgia, Wisconsin and Colorado, and Julia’s dad lives in Hong Kong.)

We live in busy Honolulu and wanted to get married away from the hustle and bustle. We thought the North Shore would be perfect. Loulu Palm Estate was the intimate setting we were looking for — we didn’t want hotel guests staring at us. We also wanted to have our wedding and reception in the same place so our guests wouldn’t get lost in an unfamiliar town. The estate was ideal because it was only two miles from Turtle Bay Condos where we were all staying, and we were able to get vans to shuttle guests back and forth. By the day of the wedding, everyone knew each other by name. It was amazing how much everyone truly enjoyed each other and made for an intimate, laid-back and fun wedding. All of our living grandparents were able to make the trip, and all spent time on the dance floor!

We had a surf board shaped and painted with our last name and had guests sign the back for a guest book. The flowers were all white but of great variety — all of the bridesmaids had different posies that they got to pick out themselves. The wedding designers were able to take the shabby-chic but laid-back and simple style we were going for and make it come to life.

Wedding Photography: Sarah + Brent DeShaw of Sarah DeShaw Photography / Wedding Venue: Loulu Palm Estate in North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii / Event Design: Sandra Williams of Finishing Touch / Event Planning: Tristen Lobendahn of Finishing Touch / Floral Design: Passion Roots / Catering: Big G’s Catering (808-218-4096) / Wedding Stationery: Finishing Touch / Ceremony + Cocktail Music: Kunoa / DJ: Troy Michael / Surf Board: Designed by the Bride & Groom + Created by Keoki / Wedding Dress: Allure Bridals “8800” / Bride’s Jewelry: Givenchy / Hair + Makeup: Maleana Cosmetics / Groom’s Suit: Ben Sherman / Other Suits: Celebrity Tuxedo / Rings: Seibke Hoyt Jewelers in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

What do you get when you mix vintage goods, drop dead gorgeous florals by Bella Grace Flowers Wedding & Event Design, and a cute as can be baby goat? Give up? You get one heck of a pretty, vintage Hawaiian photo shoot! Aihara Visuals Photography + Joanna Tano Photography captured all the vintage details and there’s so much more waiting for you right here in the full gallery!

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From Bella Grace Flowers Wedding & Event Design… The eclectic collection of Billy Goat Vintage, a rental decor company here on Maui, was the inspiration for this photo shoot. Their decor plays with chipped-paint vintage pieces, custom-crafted furniture and a little salute to old Hawaii. Olowalu Plantation House, a favorite wedding site here on Maui, provided a breathtaking backdrop. A dream team of wedding vendors collaborated to make this Hawaiian, vintage-styled shoot come to together seamlessly.

Photography: Aihara Visuals Photography + Joanna Tano Photography / Photo Shoot Location: Olowalu Plantation House in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii / Floral Design: Bella Grace Flowers Wedding & Event Design / Furniture + Styling: Billy Goat Vintage / Hair + Makeup: Adiel Sneary of Salon 253

It’s hard to imagine a better place than the sands of Oahu, Hawaii and this wedding from Wendy Laurel has got me aching to experience the swaying palms and endless beaches of The North Shore surrounding this beauty. And when you have the brilliance of La Fleur Weddings & Events behind it all? Pure loveliness. This wedding cake from Sharon Munar perfectly complements the romantic blooms of Yvonne Designs that make this little wonder so impeccably soft and pretty. Find the full wedding in the gallery, right here.

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From Wendy Laurel… Tina and Jeff chose to bring their closest family and friends to the beautiful North Shore of Oahu for their wedding. They escaped from L.A. to vacation and tie the knot in paradise. They chose a vacation rental where they could all stay together (plenty of bedrooms and a separate cottage) plus have the wedding and reception right there on the beach. They also choose a wonderful wedding planner, Jill La Fleur, to set the stage and handle all the details. About as stress free and easy as you can get.

Wedding Photography: Wendy Laurel / Second Shooter: Alisa Greig / Wedding Venue: The North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii / Wedding Planning: Jill La Fleur of La Fleur Weddings & Events / Floral Design: Yvonne Design / Officiant: Pastor Jofrey Rabanal / Catering + Rentals: Chai’s Island Bistro / Wedding Cake: Sharon Munar / Music: Marty Dread / Hair + Makeup: Jacque

Having met and fallen in love in London, this bride (from Japan) and groom (from Brazil) choose the location from their nuptials based on the photos from a friend’s Hawaiian wedding! Knowing Waikiki would be the spot if and when they said “I Do,” the adorable couple took full advantage of the island and all of its beauty for their intimate and perfectly informal wedding. Wendy Laurel captured too many amazing shots for this post alone so head over to the gallery for much more!

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From Wendy Laurel… Mayu and Lando met in London. She is from Japan and he is from Brazil.  They have lived in London, Brazil and now Japan. It was so fun shooting their wedding. They were up for anything and really wanted their photos to reflect “Hawaii.”  Shooting in Waikiki is a real treat because it is the “Hawaii” that you see on tourist brochures and has all the big landmarks (Duke statute, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head). I love that we get such diversity in our Hawaii weddings with brides coming from around the world.

From the Bride…. We (especially me) were not really interested in having a wedding ceremony. My mum was always telling me to have a little ceremony and get photos taken because its gonna be a good memory in the future. Right after we moved to Japan, I met up with a friend of mine, Mami, and she showed me a beautiful photo of her wedding in Hawaii. The Hawaiian blue sky looked amazing, and the couple looked so happy! I told her that I wanted to go to Hawaii if we ever have a wedding. Then we started to plan our little Hawaiian wedding!

Wedding Photography: Wendy Laurel / Second Shooter: Alisa Greig / Location: Waikiki, Oahu, Hawaii / Floral Design: Debbie Hemingway of Designs by Hemingway / Officiant: Rev. Mark Yasuhara / Wedding Dress: Alberta Ferretti / Bride’s Shoes: inuovo / Bride’s Bracelet: Moon Indigo (From Tokyo) / Bride’s Hat: Grace Hats / Groom’s Tie: Helios / Groom’s Shirt: Alessandro Gherardeschi

You know those weddings where everything looks perfectly easy and beautiful. It’s as if the Bride woke up looking that incredibly gorgeous; as if the flowers all grew already arranged to perfection. I think it’s the overall sense of free spiritedness that lands this Hawaiian wedding in that category. A wedding held on breathtaking Anna Ranch, thoughtfully crafted by Bliss in Bloom and so beautifully captured by Ruth Anne Photography – all in all, it’s a recipe for easy, breezy, beautiful (sorry Cover Girl, I’m borrowing your line). See so much more right here.

From Ruth Anne Photography… Radka is from Slovakia but moved with her family a few years ago to Calgary, Canada. She loved hiking and thought joining a hiking club would be a good way to make new friends and also explore the cowboy country she now called home. Allan, an avid hiker and member of this club, was quickly head over heels with this blonde beauty! It didn’t take Radka long to fell in love with this handsome man by having lengthy conversations on their long hiking excursions. 

When Radka and Allan told me they were thinking of getting married at Anna Ranch, I knew this rustic ranch would be the perfect backdrop for them to be married at! It’s located in Waimea (a small town on the Big Island of Hawaii) at the foot of a great hiking spot called “Buster Brown.” Waimea is known for being windy and wet, but on this day the weather was just magical! They were both so involved in planning their wedding — they even handmade their own thank you gifts for their guests wrapped in pieces of vintage lace! Radka loves lace, so she had her bridesmaids wear beautiful lace dresses, and she wore lace flats. The reason she wore flats was because they were comfortable. Radka and Allan had decided go on a hike together after the ceremony — so romantic! They were so smitten with each other and loved to laugh. It was so sweet to watch the way their eyes lit up around each other! I just know their lives together are going to be filled with joy and adventure!

Wedding Photography: Ruth Anne Photography / Wedding Venue: Anna Ranch in Waimea, Hawaii / Floral Design + Wedding Coordination: Bliss in Bloom / Table Centerpieces: DIY / Catering: Paradise Gourmet Catering / Wedding Dress: Romanza / Bride’s + Groomsmen’s Shoes: TOMS / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Zara / Bridesmaids’ Necklaces: Claire’s / Groom’s Suit: Custom by Cheung Hing in Hong Kong

This gorgeous couple, still on cloud nine after their amazing wedding at Haiku Mill, got gussied up once again and hit the up-island country area for a no pressure day after session by Anna Kim Photography. It really doesn’t get any better than this and if you’re like me and have never ventured to Hawaii, these images will pretty much seal the deal for your next vacation destination…or wedding! Until then, you can enjoy all the gorgeousness right here in the full gallery.

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From Anna Kim Photography… Nikki and Chauncey had an elegant wedding at the stunning Haiku Mill in Haiku, Maui. Their day after session was inspired by the beautiful landscape of the upcountry area. The incredible views and scenery were the perfect backdrop to highlight the couple’s elegant style and beauty. 

Photography: Anna Kim Photography / Location: Maui, Hawaii / Hair + Makeup: Jessica Waite

I just love a good love story, especially when it ends in an unbelievably picturesque wedding by Wendy Laurel Photography. This stunning couple chose the Olowalu Plantation House in Maui because it’s the place where their two worlds meet in the middle {doesn’t get much more romantic than that!}. With pieces of Hawaiian flair throughout, Island Rents flawlessly created a classic feel for the day which can see more of by clicking here.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… The universe must have been spinning in the most perfect direction because I can only say that fate brought us together. I am from New York, and Andy is from New Zealand — these two places are literally on opposite ends of the world. Four years ago, our lives brought both of us to the same small fishing town in the Pacific Northwest in the beautiful San Juan Islands. On the very first night out on the town with my sister, Andy and I had no idea that we would meet the person we would spend the rest of our lives with. Three amazing years later, Andy proposed to me on a secluded beach in New Zealand. We knew immediately we wanted to get married in a place where our two worlds meet in the middle: the beautiful island of Maui. Our wedding day was a dream, and it was only the beginning.

We are proud to say that we designed and put together most of our wedding ourselves. I have graphic design experience, so I really wanted to put my creative juices to use by creating the invitations, programs and table place cards. The card stock we used was from Paper Source in San Francisco. Andy very skillfully dripped wax on each invitation, program and favor and stamped a “W” into them to signify our new last name of Walker. Andy also builds racing yachts for the America’s Cup, and he is very skilled with his hands. He cut, shaped and painted our table centerpieces into surfboards with seven of the Hawaiian island names for each of our tables painted on front. He also painted pieces of wood with chalkboard paint to display our dinner and cocktail menus. My sisters, mother and I designed the vintage mason jar floral centerpieces, the bridesmaids’ bouquets and my bridal bouquet. It took a lot of time and hard work to put together! We also made our favors, which were burlap bags filled with Maui coffee beans with a wave sash design from our invitations, a label that said “The Perfect Blend” and our signature “W” wax stamp. One of the best DIY projects of the wedding was my veil, which my grandmother and my mother designed and hand-sewed together. So beautiful!

Wedding Photography: Wendy Laurel Photography / Second Shooter: Patrice Carlton / Wedding Venue: Olowalu Plantation House in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii / Wedding Coordination: Rachael Barnard of Maui
Event Planning / Flowers: DIY by the Bridal Party / Catering: Aloha Events Catering / Musicians: Barefoot Minded / Rentals: Island Rents / Wedding Dress: Maggie Sottero via RK Bridal / Hair + Makeup: Bridal Hair on Maui / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: J.Crew / Groom’s Suit: Saks Fifth Avenue / Groomsmen’s Flip-Flops: Havaianas

After celebrating their nuptials in a big, Australian garden-wedding, this UK couple jetted off to a dream honeymoon in Maui, Hawaii. Duing their stay at the Four Seasons Wailea, they set-up a laid-back beach photo shoot to capture some casual newlywed moments! The super-talented Wendy Laurel Photography played off the natural beauty of the island and snapped up sweet moments between this darling duo. There is even more beachy-goodness to see in the full gallery!

Click here for the FULL photo session!

From Wendy Laurel Photography… Ranee and Simon live in the UK, although Ranee is originally from Australia. After a big garden wedding there, they came to Maui for their honeymoon. They wanted some relaxed honeymoon shoots for their thank you cards and just for fun. They stayed at the Four Seasons Wailea, and I stopped by early in the morning and picked them up. We went for a drive up to Makena Cove stopping here and there on the way and to take photos.

Photography: Wendy Laurel Photography / Location: Maui, Hawaii

Nope, these aren’t two gorgeous models in a styled photoshoot here, folks. These INCREDIBLE images from Mariah Milan Photography are simply capturing a couple of real-life darlings celebrating their engagement. Having married my high school sweetheart myself, this couple’s story had me near to tears and filled with joy for the lasting love they share. This spontaneous (if you can believe it!) photo shoot on the sands of Big Beach, Makena, Maui wouldn’t be complete without those ah-dorable American Apparel suspenders and the cutest frock from Bebe with all the feathery-glittery goodness you could ever want. Click here for even more spectacular images in our gallery.

Click here for the FULL engagement session!

From the Bride-to-Be… Our story began six-and-a-half years ago when I was in grade 10, and Kev (my absolutely adorable fiancé) was in grade 11. We were both too scared to talk to each other, so I was forced to settle with a few smiles and simple “hi’s” while passing by each other in the hallway. From the moment I saw him, I was completely enamored by his charm and good looks, but I really didn’t think anything would come of it since he was quite shy, and, well, I was just too scared to talk to him! One day while I was on MSN (way back in the day!), I started a conversation with one of his best friends, Jordan. To my surprise (and luck), I received a message saying “This is Kev, I’m just on Jordan’s account.” I cannot express how nervous and excited I was that I finally was talking to my crush. Kev and I chatted for quite some time and finally arranged to go on a date.  We would see movies and play video games so we didn’t have to talk to each other too much (just in case things became awkward). Once the awkward phase was over, our relationship evolved into the loving and nurturing relationship we both share today. He is my best friend and soul mate, and I knew he was going to be the one I would say “yes” to!

This past year we planned a vacation with both of our families to go to Maui during my reading week (Canadian spring break for universities). I’m currently in the faculty of nursing, so time away from the books was much needed! While packing and finishing up last-minute errands the night before the trip, Kev walks up the stairs and says jokingly, “Kels, I can’t go to Hawaii anymore — my passport is expired.” I gave him a doubtful look, called his bluff, as he laughed and said “Just kidding!” (How mean!) Anyway, five seconds later, he looks at his passport for real, and his passport had expired three days before we were supposed to leave! We were both in a state of complete and utter shock and heartbreak. We had no idea what to do. Kev frantically searched emergency passport numbers to call and was on the phone all night since our flight left at 6:00 a.m. the next morning. I was completely crushed, but he forced me to get on the flight the next morning anyway, promising me he would make it there no matter what. I kissed him goodbye and prayed for a miracle. When I landed in Denver, I received a text message from Kev saying that he was able to get his passport renewed! My eyes filled with tears — I was just so happy.

He finally arrived in Maui and told me that the next morning we were going on a “hike.” I got all ready in my hiking gear and was looking forward to seeing all the beauty Maui had to offer. Little did I know we were NOT going on a hike. Kev had arranged to take me on a helicopter ride over looking the Haleakla side of Maui. When I found out he arranged this for me, I was shocked and so excited! The views were absolutely breathtaking, and since it had been raining a little in the morning, there was a beautiful rainbow in the distance. All of a sudden the pilot says, “Kev, I have a spot picked out here for you!” (#1, why the heck did the pilot know Kev’s name?, and #2, why did he have a spot picked out for him?!) My questions were soon answered when he flew over an amazing waterfall, and Kev pulled the ring out from his pocket. He told me I was his best friend and asked if I would spend the rest of my life with him. I broke out in tears and said yes! This was one of the most romantic moments of my life and Kev could not have made it any more perfect.

We arranged for Mariah to take our photos, and could not have been happier with the way they turned out. She does wonders with a camera and, may I add, is one of the sweetest people I have ever met! The three of us each brought some props and made our photo shoot dream into reality!

Photography: Mariah Milan Photography / Photo Shoot Location: Big Beach, Makena, Maui, Hawaii / Feather Dress: Bebe / Suspenders: American Apparel / Beige Pants + White Button Up: Club Monaco

This wedding is a true happily ever after story! The bride and groom each have a young daughter, and the joy of these two families combining into one emanates from the full gallery of photos and makes my heart absolutely melt. I could not be more happy for this new family of four! Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea provided a gorgeous backdrop for this elegant wedding that offered fun for guests of all ages. Thank you, Joanna Tano Photography, for capturing every lovely moment!

From Joanna Tano Photography… When I met Allison and Joe, along with their two lovely daughters, several months ago, I knew their wedding would be a really special one! We did a family/engagement photo session, so I got to know them and their children before the wedding, which was great. On the day of the wedding, Allison looked absolutely stunning. The couple made their ceremony not only about their own commitment to each other but also about their commitment to each others’ daughters, which I thought was really sweet. The team at the Four Seasons Maui did a spectacular job, as always, in creating an elegant and beautiful event. Both the ceremony and reception took place on the Ocean Front Lawn.

Wedding Photography: Joanna Tano Photography / Wedding Venue: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea in Wailea, Maui, Hawaii / Wedding Dress: Priscilla of Boston (Now Closed) / Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo / Hair: Dan Sanchez / Girls’ Dresses: Us Angels

Maui.  A magical island paradise where sun-kissed beaches, picturesque views and crystal blue waters join forces to create the ultimate in wedding wonderlands… AND the ever-so-beautiful host to this magical affair captured by Wendy Laurel Photography.  This, my friends, is what happens when an intimate Maui celebration meets a breathtaking clifftop ceremony and one VERY stunning bride and groom.  Say hello to absolute perfection.  See so much more right here.

From the Bride… I wish I could you some glamorous story about how and why we chose Hawaii, but there really isn’t one. I was never one of those girls who dreamed of a big, fabulous wedding, and I was actually petrified to think about myself walking down an aisle. Or coming out into a big room with all our guests in it as the DJ or band called out our names. It was just never for me. I would have been happy just going to the courthouse. However, for my husband it was a different story — he wanted the big wedding, he wanted all his friends and family there, and he wanted the first dance. It was one of the harder decisions we had to make together. He didn’t want to force me into a big wedding, and I didn’t want him to hold a grudge against me for not having his dream wedding.

We were actually at the Ritz Carlton on Key Biscayne with a wedding planner about to sign the papers to reserve our date for the “BIG wedding” when Andrew asked me if he could talk to me outside.  We went outside and he said, “Let’s not do this.” I was thrilled! I basically ran back inside and said, “It’s off!”  My parents looked at me like I had five heads, and my dad started crying. I had to explain that the “BIG wedding” was off — that we were going to do something more low-key. My dad asked me if I was sure, if I would one day regret not having a BIG wedding. I was positive. We had lunch with my parents after the dramatic loss of our BIG wedding. And as my dad and Andrew were sulking, my mom and I were talking about the trip to Hawaii she and my father were about to take for their second honeymoon. And that’s when it hit Andrew. “Lets get married in Hawaii!” And that was that.

Wedding Photography: Wendy Laurel Photography /  Wedding Venue: The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua in Kapalua, Maui, Hawaii / Venue Contact: Tori Nihei, Events Concierge / Floral Design: Sunya’s Flowers & Plants (808-669-8570) / Officiant: Rabbi Richard Lewis / Music: Marvin / Wedding Dress: Nicole Miller / Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo / Hair + Makeup: Waihua Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua / Groom’s Suit: Hugo Boss