How to Plan a Dream Wedding in Hawaii

Planning a wedding in Hawaii can be exciting but overwhelming if you’re unfamiliar with the area. As one of the most popular wedding destinations, Hawaii is known for its stunning scenery and romantic atmosphere – perfect for a beautiful wedding celebration!

Planning a Hawaii Wedding

When planning a wedding in Hawaii from afar, it’s essential to hire an experienced and trustworthy wedding planner who can help you navigate all the details that go into creating your dream day. A professional wedding planner will have great relationships with local vendors, know about the best venues, and make sure everything goes off without a hitch. Plus, they’ll be able to find you the perfect package deal that fits both your vision and budget.

There are plenty of unique packages available throughout the Hawaiian Islands, many of which include things like:

1. Venue rental
2. Floral arrangements
3. Photography services
4. Catering

No matter what kind of wedding style you dream of, there will be a package for you! With so much beauty and romance, Hawaii makes creating an unforgettable experience for you and your guests easy.

Choosing a Venue

When selecting a wedding venue in Hawaii, you have plenty of options! There is something for everyone, from hotels and resorts to chapels and outdoor locations like waterfalls and volcanoes. 

• On Oahu, popular venues include Waimea Falls Park, The Royal Hawaiian Hotel, and Kualoa Ranch. 
• If you’re looking for a spot on Maui, consider Olowalu Plantation House or Maui Tropical Plantation. 
• Kauai offers gorgeous backdrops at places like Kalapaki Beach and Poipu Beach Park. 
• And don’t forget about the Big Island—you can find spectacular views of Mauna Kea and Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park.

Dressing for Your Wedding Day

Once you’ve chosen your venue, it’s time to think about attire. Traditional Hawaiian weddings are often held outdoors, so ensure the bride and groom select clothing appropriate for the weather conditions. For brides, casual dresses made of light cotton, silk, and chiffon are ideal. Meanwhile, grooms should opt for lightweight linen or cotton suits in neutral tones. As far as guests go, they should dress semi-formally in light colors and breathable fabrics.

Wedding Traditions in Hawaii

You’ll want to incorporate some of the island’s traditional customs when arranging a wedding! From exchanging leis and blowing conch shells to performing hula dances, there are plenty of ways to make your special day even more meaningful. Here are four traditions you can consider adding to your ceremony:

• Exchanging Leis – A sign of love and affection, exchanging leis is a beautiful way for couples to express their devotion.
• Blowing Conch Shells – This centuries-old custom symbolizes two people’s union and marks the ceremony’s beginning.
• Performing Hula Dances -Hula dancing has been integral to Hawaiian culture for centuries. Celebrate your union with this ancient tradition!
• Incorporating Hawaiian Music – From melodic ukulele tunes to soothing slack-key guitar songs, Hawaiian music will help create a truly magical atmosphere.

Capturing Your Memories

Your wedding day will be one of the most memorable days of your life, so it’s vital to have professional photos and videos that capture all the joy and emotion. If you plan on getting married in Hawaii, you’re lucky – the area is home to some fantastic photographers and videographers. Here are a few examples of top professionals in the area, along with sample work to inspire you:

• Right Frame Photography – Specializing in wedding photography and events, they capture breathtaking images that tell a story.
• Michelle Jost Photography – Women-owned and operated, with years of experience shooting weddings, Michelle provides stunning footage that perfectly encapsulates the beauty of your special day.

No matter who you choose, you can relax knowing your memories are in good hands.

Flowers & Decorations

When it comes to flowers and decorations for your Hawaiian wedding, there are a few things you should consider! For starters, traditional flower arrangements like bridal bouquets and lei exchanges are always popular options that can add a special touch to the day. If you’re looking for something more unique, try opting for a beachy or tropical vibe with bright colors and natural elements like shells, starfish, and even palm fronds.

Food & Drink

Your food and drinks should be as special as the rest of the day! Consider catering options like local cuisine or fusion dishes that will give your guests a taste of Hawaii’s flavors. To top off the meal, why not serve some unique cocktails popular on the islands? Whether mai tais, piña coladas or Blue Hawaiians, you will find something to satisfy everyone’s tastes at your Hawaiian wedding!

The Cost of Getting Married in Hawaii

Getting married in paradise can be expensive. Costs can quickly add up and vary widely between islands, from the flowers to the reception. Here’s a breakdown of what you should expect when planning your Hawaiian wedding:

• Venue & Catering: Depending on the size of your event and location, this could range from $2,000 – $10,000 or more.
• Flowers & Decorations: Expect to pay around $1,500 for floral arrangements, centerpieces, and other decorations.
• Music & Entertainment: Live music and DJ services typically cost around $1,000-$3,000, depending on the type of entertainment you want.
• Photography & Videography: To capture your special day, budget anywhere from $1,500 – $5,000+ for photography or videography services.

Wave crashing Hawaiian wedding in 2022

Picture it: It’s a glorious summer day; a stunning Hawaiian beach wedding has just begun. Everything is perfect, then out of nowhere – BOOM! A huge wave crashes in and interrupts the ceremony. Stunned guests look on as chairs and tables are flipped over, with dresses and shoes now soaked in seawater. 

The described scenario happened in July 2022 during high tide when a few giant waves swamped a beach wedding venue. It’s a day the bride and groom will never forget – that’s for sure! Thankfully, no one was hurt, but it serves as a reminder: always have a backup plan when planning to wed by the ocean. So let this be a lesson, take heed of the warning, and ensure unexpected waves of surprise don’t ruin your special day!

Frequently Asked Questions