When I planned my own destination wedding in Hawaii years ago, I didn't realise I was part of such a growing trend towards destination weddings. I just thought it would be neat to get married while on holidays in a seaside chapel on the Big Island of Hawaii. I saw a picture of this chapel and just knew it was where I wanted to get married.
Hawaii is such a beautiful place to get married, it just oozes what is referred to locally as aloha spirit. Everyone makes you feel so warmly welcomed, you can't help but feel at home.
Visually, Hawaii is breathtaking with it's gorgeous palm fringed beaches, misty rainforest-covered mountains, spectacular waterfalls and awesome volcanoes. Although Hawaii consists of eight islands, the most popular wedding destinations tend to be Oahu, Maui, Kauai and The Big Island of Hawaii.
Incorporating quintessentially Hawaiian elements such as orchid lei's, a conch shell blower and Hawaiian musicians is popular amongst many destination wedding couples. You can provide leis to your guests to wear during the ceremony and/or reception. Every day in Hawaii I couldn't resist wearing a fresh orchid or frangipani (known locally as plumaria) lei around my neck. I can still smell their sweet, tropical perfume wafting through my memories.
Image from: www.alohaislandweddings.com
There's a range of wedding planners and wedding service providers across the islands. Most of the resorts also provide wedding co-ordination services. You only have to Google "wedding in hawaii" to be inundated with myriad of wedding options in Hawaii.
My advice when planning a destination wedding in Hawaii is to go by word of mouth wherever possible. Depending on what kind (and size) of wedding you are planning, you may choose to use a wedding planner to arrange everything for you.
Since my wedding was very intimate, I arranged most things myself although my wedding celebrant helped out by putting me in touch with a reputable local hairdresser and florist. The day went off without a hitch and one of the highlights was cruising along Ali'i Drive on the way to the chapel in our rented Mustang, listening to a Hawaiian version of a Barry White tune. The drive along the Kona coast is spectacular with the sun sparkling on the ocean waves and the palm trees arching from white sand and volcanic rocks.
I would highly recommend getting married in Hawaii, it really is one of the most romantic places on earth.
If you have any questions feel free to ask!
