Hawaii Weddings

Maui is a beautiful, beautiful place – especially when seen through the lens of Wendy Laurel.  I am fairly certain her breathtaking images are the sole reason for many a Hawaiian wedding and this intimate beach affair is certainly no exception.  Crazy gorgeous and literally overflowing with romance (seriously), it’s the epitome of island matrimony – casual, yet elegant, seaside nuptials and a whole lot of dancing on the beach.  See it all here.

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From the Bride… Two years ago Nick and I came to Maui together and fell in love. Coming from the hustle bustle of San Francisco, we knew that Maui would be the perfect place to have an intimate wedding and to share that special day with our close family and friends. And we were right! The day, and the whole trip, was an absolute dream and we can’t wait to get back.

From Wendy Laurel… They got ready at the oceanfront Wailea condominiums, had their ceremony at Polo Beach in Wailea, and then continued on to Gannon’s in Wailea for their reception dinner. The bride’s father passed away several years ago but she wore the Mickey Mouse watch he gave her in the ceremony so he could be there with her.

Wedding Photography: Wendy Laurel / Assistant Photography: Images by Jeffrey / Ceremony: Polo Beach in Wailea, Maui, Hawaii / Reception: Gannon’s in Wailea-Makena, Maui, Hawaii / Catering + Wedding Cake: Gannon’s / Signs: DIY by a Friend / Wedding Dress: Nicole Miller / Bride’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin / Groom’s Suit: John Varvatos

I swear Hawaii must have been crafted specifically to be the best wedding location ever. How else can you explain the grassy land and swaying palm trees that just so happen to rest atop a cliff that overlooks the ocean like at the Olowalu Plantation House? Coincidence? I think not. And the romantic love story behind these nuptials is a sure sign that everything leading up to these two tying the knot has been pure fate. Kaua Wedding Photography has captured every moment and you can find it all in the gallery right here.

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From the Bride… Bryan and I met as teenagers in 1997 in the hallways of Burlingame High School. We were high school sweethearts for two years (we have the prom pictures to prove it!) before Bryan graduated in 1999 and we went our separate ways. Fast forward a decade to 2009, and thanks to a message on Facebook, Bryan and I reconnected over dinner. Sparks flew, and two years later he popped the question, surprising me during a friend’s photo shoot with a proposal and an impromptu engagement party with our close family and friends. (He knows how to make a girl happy!) We always knew we’d have a smaller destination wedding in Hawaii. Bryan basically said, “Will you marry me… in Hawaii?” I am only half kidding! Bryan has family there, and my family has vacationed on the island for many summers. With my father’s passing in 2010, we wanted a place that he loved and where we both had a connection — Maui!

When I first drove up to Olowalu, I knew it was the place. There was no other place I could see us getting married. A fun fact is that my now-husband was actually not on that trip to Maui, so he didn’t see Olowalu until he drove up to get married! If that doesn’t say love, I don’t know what does. He trusted me, and we agreed that it was by far the most beautiful wedding site we had ever seen. And lucky us, it was ours. Once we found Olowalu Plantation House, the wedding planning fell into place with the fantastic recommendation of Lori and Jamie Lawrence and Jackie Tanaka of Tropical Maui Weddings. I knew very early on that I wanted a rustic, Hawaiian, garden party type of wedding. Bryan and I both like a clean palette and didn’t want to take away from the gorgeous Maui Olowalu setting with overly tropical decor – greens, tans, and lots of white and cream were central when conceptualizing the look and feel of the wedding. Once I connected with Lori, Jamie and Jackie, they knew just the photographer who would capture our day with grace – Kaua! After I was introduced to his website and we chatted over email, I just had a feeling it would be a great match, and we were right! I think the photos speak for themselves.

So many wonderful moments! Getting ready with my best friends, my sister and my mom. Holding my beautiful bridal bouquet wrapped in my late father’s tie. Walking across the grass with my mom and looking up to see the very first love of my life, my high school sweetheart and now my soon-to-be husband, standing at the end of the aisle waiting to marry me. Listening to Bryan’s touching vows. Our first dance to “The Way You Look Tonight” and just dancing, dancing, dancing with everyone until the last call. And finally, holding hands and running through the sparklers held by our amazing friends and family! My advice to other brides is to trust who you are working with when planning, and let go of the small things. Be present in your planning, and be present at the wedding, too! Having a destination wedding allows you to spend real time with your guests, and it’s an incredibly overwhelming feeling to know that your closest friends and family flew over an ocean to be with you to celebrate such a special occasion. We will always look back on our wedding day and wedding weekend with deep love and gratitude. Aloha and mahalo to everyone who celebrated with us!

Wedding Photography: Kaua Wedding Photography / Wedding Venue: Olowalu Plantation House in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii / Wedding Planning + Coordination: Tropical Maui Weddings / Floral Design + Table Decor: Lois Hiranaga Floral Design / Wedding Cinematography: Maui Wedding Videography by Outer Island Productions / Catering: Cafe O’Lei / Wedding Cake + Desserts: Cakes by JoAnn / Bar Staffing: Maui Bars Are Us / Ceremony + Cocktail Music: Jamie Lawrence / DJ: DJ Del Sol of Maui Wedding DJ / Wedding Dress: Blue By Enzoani “Casablanca” (2010 Collection) / Bride’s Veil: Her Mother’s from Her 1974 Wedding / Bride’s Hair + Makeup: Pam Jensen / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Dessy “2832” Color: Apple Slice) / Bridesmaids’ Hair: Martie Balmer

I think it’s safe to say that Maui is a pretty fine backdrop for an engagement session. I think it’s also safe to say that if you are lucky enough to be in Hawaii for that engagement session – Wendy Laurel is your girl. We’ve seen some seriously pretty features from that talented lady’s lens (like this wedding, or this one or this one – just to point out a few), so not only are these two soon to be Mr. & Mrs adorable as all get out – they have great taste too. See so much more of their e-session here!

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From Wendy Laurel… Krista and Peter chose to come to Hawaii to get married. They both wanted a destination wedding and picked Maui as being the prettiest and easiest to coordinate from the mainland. A few days before the big day, we met for some fun engagement photos. They wanted a relaxed, casual feel, so we meet a local beach to have some fun. It was a great way to get to know each other and gave us a big head start for the wedding day since we got comfortable with each other, and I got to know the couple and how they felt in front of the camera. It turned out to be way more fun then they had imagined.

Photography: Wendy Laurel / Location: Maui, Hawaii

It won’t take long for you to fall head-over-heels in love with this Maui beach wedding from Anna Kim Photography. What started as an elopement turned into an intimate affair when some of the bride + groom’s family decided to join the celebration as they became a Mr. + Mrs. There’s a gallery full of pretty (and an amazing Makena Cove sunset) for you to swoon over right here!

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From Anna Kim Photography… Anita and Dal were planning an intimate elopement in Maui from Utah. At the last minute, a few of their family members decided to come along to celebrate their Maui wedding celebration. A Hawaiian turtle even decided to hang around for their wedding as they said their I do’s on one of Maui’s picturesque beaches, Makena Cove. The happiness and the tears made this wedding such a sweet celebration of their love.

Wedding Photography: Anna Kim Photography / Wedding Location: Makena Cove, Maui, Hawaii / Bouquet: Lois Hiranaga Floral Design / Officiant: Reverend Kimo / Wedding Invitations: Polka Dots & Daisies / Wedding Dress: Allure Couture / Bride’s Veil: Bridal Expressions / Bride’s Shoes: Matisse via Nordstrom / Hair + Makeup: Mira Carman of Maui MiRa / Groom’s Suit: Joseph Abboud via Nordstrom / Groom’s Tie: J.Crew

This pretty-as-all-getout Maui wedding will have you dreaming of a seaside fête all your own. Held on the stunning grounds of The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, in the property’s quaint seaside chapel, the day was filled with sunshine, beautiful surroundings and LOVE. Lucky for us, Wendy Laurel captured it all through her lens! See the rest right here!

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From the Bride… We chose Hawaii because it is my favorite place in the world, and it is also where we got engaged! We were there celebrating my dad’s 60th birthday, and Tim proposed in Maui one year before our wedding. We chose the Ritz because the level of service we received from the wedding planners (Akkiko, Michelle, and Tori) there was outstanding. (Not to mention the beauty of the chapel and the grounds!) It was my absolute dream come true! The chapel at The Ritz-Carlton is a wooden, quaint, seaside chapel right on the edge of the property. It is reminiscent of a different era. The ceremony in there was gorgeous, and then we stepped outside to a beautiful, classic Maui day, full of sunshine and breeze.

Wedding Photography: Wendy Laurel / Wedding Venue: The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua in Kapalua, Maui, Hawaii / Planning: The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua / Wedding Dress: Lea-Ann Belter “Lucy” via Mariee / Bride’s Veil: Mariee / Hair + Makeup: The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Their Choice / Groom’s Suit: Hugo Boss via Nordstrom / Rings: Jared

It’s bound to be a beautiful Monday when the amazingly talented Wendy Laurel is involved and this family-centered Maui wedding simply couldn’t be any prettier. Keeping things low-key and intimate, this bride + groom (along with their four children) said “I Do” on a private estate with a traditional Hawaiian ceremony. Stunning florals from Dellables and an (almost) too-pretty-to-eat cake from Maui Wedding Cakes added to the already perfect day. See the rest right here!

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From Wendy Laurel… Dana and Roland escaped from their busy lives in Oregon and ran away with their kids in tow (three of his, one of hers) to a beautiful palm estate on the west side of Maui to get married. Dana planned the wedding and ceremony for an early morning to catch the clean, bright light and really bring out the Maui colors. Yellow details and flowers made the ceremony pop against the bright blue skies and lush green of the Maui backdrop. It was gorgeous and low-key for the family so that everyone could enjoy the day. The same pastor from the Modern Family Hawaii episode presided over the ceremony, giving it an authentic Hawaiian touch.

Wedding Photography: Wendy Laurel / Wedding Venue: A Private Estate in Maui, Hawaii / Floral Design: Dellables / Officiant: Rev. Laki Pomaikai Ka’ahumanu / Wedding Cake: Maui Wedding Cakes / Sign: Go Jump in the Lake / Wedding Dress: J.Crew / Bride’s Shoes: ModCloth / Bride’s Ring: LFrank Jewelry via TWISTonline / Girls’ Dresses: United Colors of Benetton Kids via Nordstrom / Groom’s + Boys’ Attire: J.Crew / Groom’s Shoes: Nordstrom / Groom’s Tie: Cheap Neckties / Groom’s Ring: Annie Fensterstock Jewelry via TWISTonline

When I laid eyes on this Maui stunner sent over by Wendy Laurel it was love at first sight. And then to find out the oceanside celebration was a small + totally intimate gathering of the couple’s nearest and dearest? My wedding-loving heart skipped a beat. Lovelies, set aside your afternoon…there is some serious beauty to be seen in the full gallery.

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From Wendy Laurel… Claire and Dan got married with just a few family members on Maui. Dan’s father did the ceremony and it was such an intimate and special occasion. He had their written vows in his notebook, and the whole family was together on the beach. Makena Cove is one of the most popular beaches on Maui for weddings. Its tiny, just a small cove, but it’s gorgeous with black rocks and pounding waves surrounded by palm trees.

Wedding Photography: Wendy Laurel / Location: Makena Cove, Maui, Hawaii / Bride’s Bouquet: DIY by the Bride + Her Mother / Officiant: The Groom’s Father / Wedding Dress: David’s Bridal / Groom’s Suit: Hugo Boss via Nordstrom

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

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

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’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

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

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.

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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!

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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