A lot of people may not know this, but prior to moving to Los Angeles, I spent a few years living on the island of Maui. And truth be told, that’s where one might even find a little piece of my heart floating around. This is especially the case when I see blissful images like the ones below from Beloved Photo Boutique. This sweet day was planned by our very own, Jane Park for Beth Helmstetter Events and with it’s simple charm and all-around vintage aloha, I couldn’t be happier to share a few moments from the day.
When we first started planning, Tanasia had a vision of a wedding that was a little “off the beaten path”. Something that was simple, but also elegant and refined. Tansia’s style is impeccable, and reminded me right off the bat of SMP, so we both found constant inspiration in Abby’s posts!
Our goal was a casual and relaxed feel, in a stunning formal environment, based around the idea of a gourmet picnic. Once I showed Tanasia the historic Haiku Mill, she knew right away that this was THE location. We loved the vintage chic feel of the location, the beautiful imported Parisian antiques and the rustic environment accessorized with elegant crystal chandeliers, dramatic up lighting , and the open-air ceiling. We didn’t need to add much to the location, however we used items that would compliment the simple, rustic beauty of the inside of the mill with antique bird cages, lace wrapped hurricane vases, white porcelain pitchers, rich feaux silk linen with pale pink antique lace runners.
We filled pitchers and mason jars with lacy white ranunculus, orchids, and roses. Tanasia’s bouquet brought in a bright contrast to the romantic pastels, using shades of pinks, as well as lavender rannunculus and roses. Adrian and Tanasia were both elegantly dressed, with her in a nostalgic Vera Wang dress with an empire waist and silk flower, and Adrian sharply complimenting his bride in a classic black suit. You actually could hear the stunned silence of awe as Tanasia descended down the staircase into the mill, where Adrian greeted his bride with the smile of a man forever in love.
Guests played Bacci ball while nibbling on Mini Kobe Beef Sliders, Brie, Grape & Basil Croustade, and Curried Chicken Salad Finger Sandwiches. The bartenders served refreshing Lychee vodka martinis garnished with a lychee fruit and sprig of lavender and a refreshing twist on the Mojito, the Montana Mule (ginger beer, whiskey, lime and crushed mint garnished with lime).
Dinner was a casual sharing of platters of amazing food served family-style including:
Herb Roasted Tenderloin over Eggplant Caponata
Macadamia Nut Crusted Fresh Catch from Hawaiian Waters, Lilikoi Beurre Blanc
Truffle White Cheddar Mac ‘n Cheese
Wasabi Potatoes Au Gratin
Assortment of Grilled Upcountry Vegetables
Salad of Local Field Greens, Heirloom Tomatoes, Shaved Maui Onions & Edamame, Ginger Chili Dressing
Assorted Rustic Breads with Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar
For dessert, guests indulged in Mini Gourmet Cupcakes infused with coconut, with butter cream frosting, toasted coconut garnish & Chocolate cupcakes with chocolate butter cream frosting and chocolate ganache drizzle. To accompany the cupcakes, the bride and groom chose an ice cream sundae bar complete with all the fixins’ (Macadamia Nuts, Reese’s Pieces, Junior Mints, Oreo Cookies, Fresh Strawberries, Fresh Pineapple, Chocolate Sauce, Caramel Sauce, and Whipped Cream) and a gourmet coffee bar.
The event was such a pleasure to coordinate. I felt that Tanasia and I were great collaborators of her vision, and the event went off without a hitch! She and Adrian are such a young and vibrant couple with such a refined demeanor. The best way to describe their love from an outside point of view is a love that is confident, passionate, and holds a mutual admiration that will last them their whole lives. I was truly touched by their affection for each other, and the kindness and humor shared by their family and friends.
Warmest Aloha!
Jane Park and Beth Helmstetter
Credits: Coordination: Jane Park for Beth Helmstetter Events / Photography:Matt Alvarado of Beloved Photo Boutique / Clergy: Pastor Pia Aluli / Music: Vance Koenig (Classical guitar) & Don Lax (Violin) / Hair & Make-up: the fabulous Mira Carmen / Flowers: Bella Bloom Floral Boutique / Linen: Pacific Event Group / Catering: Celebrations Catering