Hawaii Wedding Style - Summer/Fall 2020

The WEDDING RESOURCE GUIDE of HAWAII

SUMMER/FALL 2020 HAWAIIWEDDINGSTYLE.CO

WWW.QUEENKAPIOLANI.COM

www.magnoliawhite-hawaii.com 808-800-3088

T H E

B E S T

Hawaii Wedding PRIVATE AND INTIMATE VENUES FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY

ANGEL GARDEN

THE EWA BEACH HOUSE

HANALANI CHAPEL

PARADISE COVE CRYSTAL CHAPEL

WHITE BEACH CHAPEL

WINDWARD WATERFRONT GARDEN

w w w. t h e b e s t h a w a i i w e d d i n g . c o m

Photos courtesy of Christie Pham Photography, Chrissy Lambert Photography, Kai Photo, Dave Miyamoto & Co., Kris Labang Photography

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S U M M E R & FAL L

Refined Elegance & Bold Statements.

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TH E L IS T

Hawaii’s Wedding Experts.

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IN S TA-WO RTH Y

Some of Hawaii's best Instagram accounts.

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TH E M AR KETP L AC E

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Shop for the perfect wedding professional for your special day.

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94 SUMMER/FALL '20 REAL LIFE WEDDINGS 22

R AC H E L + KA`IM I

Pretty In Paradise.

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EM ILY + T YL E R

Magic At The Mill.

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EM A + H O L D E N

Romance On The Ranch.

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L IN D S EY + CO L L IN

Historic Modern or Modern History.

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www.summerhousehawaii.com hello@summerhousehawaii.com

artisphotos

www.lilyrose-designs.com info@lilyrosehawaii.com

For the person who expects excellence.

Enjoy the freshest ingredients, local produce, seafood and meats all combined with great care and balance to create the centerpiece of the fine dining experience.

www.foreverbythesea.com

WELCOME Letter from the editor

Aloha, This year has been nothing like any of us has seen before. The world has changed. Or rather, this year’s events have put change on the forefront, after all, change is the only constant. Only now, change has occurred at an accelerated rate. At times, it has been stressful and chaotic. At others, it has brought clarity, bringing us closer together to those most important in our lives and magnifying the good in people. The resilient professionals of Hawaii’s wedding industry put competition and self-interest aside in order to come together to uplift one another, offering support and encouragement through these difficult times. These acts of compassion and generosity embody this business of LOVE, and it’s been humbling to witness. I’m truly honored and proud to be part of this community.

The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably changed the way the we communicate and interact on a daily basis from Zoom consultations and wedding professional meetings to virtual site tours with future brides and grooms. So what is the “new normal” for weddings?

We know things will be different from before and that it will and will be ever-changing. Most importantly, flexibility and creativity will be essential, rather than optional. Large gatherings may have forever changed, making the Micro and Hybrid wedding with physical distancing the new normal. What are Micro and Hybrid weddings? They are smaller, more intimate events with live stream capabilities to include more friends and family.

The Best Hawaii Wedding’s paddleboard commitment ceremony is an example of innovation, incorporating physical distancing and fun. Wedding vendors and the couple can keep their physical distance in a unique outdoor setting. Not knowing when large ceremonies will again be allowed, couples have chosen intimate, informal commitment ceremonies to promise their love for each other until large, legal ceremonies are again permitted.

Although we are in uncharted territory, we are taking this opportunity to celebrate each other’s strengths, learn from the challenges, and collaborate to successfully navigate this journey together. We are excited for what the future has to offer for our industry, its professionals and future brides and grooms.

We promise,…We are all in this together!

Love with Aloha!

Julie

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www.hawaiiweddingfilmsandphotos.com

SUMMER / FALL 2020 ISSUE 55 Publisher A2H2 MEDIA, LLC Executive Editor JULIE ARAGAKI Creative Director G AV I N K O B AY A S H I Social Media Coordinator C A I T LY N B A B A Executive Director of Sales & Advertising JULIE ARAGAKI

On The Cover Beautiful photo captured by NV MAUI MEDIA nvmauimedia.com

ADVE RTISING IN QU IRIES

Phone: (808) 428-1596 Email: julie@hawaiibride.com SUBMISSIONS

Phone: (808) 381-0918 Email: gavin@hawaiibride.com

www.hawaiiweddingstyle.co ©2020 A2H2 MEDIA, LLC. Hawaii Wedding Style is published biannually by A2H2 Media, LLC. Offices located at 47-472 Hui Kelu Street, Kaneohe, Hawaii, 96744. All rights reserved. Title is protected. All materials published remain the copyright of A2H2 Media, LLC. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher.

Hawaii Wedding Style will not be responsible for unsolicited materials. Photographers own the rights to all photos submitted for this publication and have given permission to the publisher to reproduce these photos. Published in Hawaii.

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R A C H E L andK A ` I M I

Venue: L A N I K U H O N UA C U LT U R A L I N S T I T U T E Planner: B E S T D AY EV E R H AWA I I Catering & Bar: M E M O I R S H AWA I I Cake & Dessert Table: A C A K E L I F E Photography: J E N N A L E E PI C T U R E S Videography: I N S PI R E D F I L M S H AWA I I Florals: C R E AT I V E CO N C E P TS B Y J E F F DJ & Emcee: B L I S S D J S H AWA I I - D J K EVO Rentals: H AWA I I T E N TS A N D EV E N TS Lounge and Peacock Chairs: A LO H A A RT I S A N S Photobooth: F L A S H L A B Favors: M A N OA C H O CO L AT E Hair & Makeup: W H I K'D H A I R A N D M A K E U P H AWA I I Guest Accomodations: AU L A N I, A D I S N EY R E S O RT & S PA Transportation: LU X U RY L I M O H AWA I I Stationery: S H I N E W E D D I N G I N V I TAT I O N S Jewelery: Z A D D O K J EW E L E R S

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E M I L Y andT Y L E R

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Wedding Planning and Design: OPIHI LOVE Ceremony Venue: HAIKU MILL Reception Venue: OLOWALU PL ANTATION HOUSE Photography: NV MAUI MEDIA Hair and Makeup: AMELIA HAIR AND MAKEUP Catering: CELEBRATIONS CATERING Bar: MAUI BARS ARE US Entertainment: MAUI DJ SERVICES Rentals: RIO EVENT DESIGN Florals: BELL A BLOOM MAUI

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E M A andH O L D E N

Venue: D I L L I N G H A M R A N C H Wedding Planning and Design: S AY I D O B Y K A R I S A Photographer: A R I A S T U D I O S Videographer: R E D E F I N E D M E D I A Dress: M U S E B Y B E RTA Florals: S U - V E X P R E S S I O N S Makeup: K E C I A L I T T M A N , S A R A H G O M E Z Hair: H M B Rentals: PAC I F I C PA RT Y R E N TA L S, A LO H A A RT I S A N S Cake: PA N YA Lei: L I N’S L E I S H O P Linen: T H E W E D D I N G L I N E N CO Catering: C H E F A N D R EW S TO N E Music: TA H I T I R EY Entertainment: D J D E KO S O U N D Dessert: M O C H I S A D A S, B L AC K S H E E P C R E A M CO

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L I N D S E Y andC O L L I N

Coordinator: F O R T H E G O O D EV E N TS Venue: M OA N A S U R F R I D E R Florist: F LOW E RG I R L S H AWA I I Cinematography: V I V I D F OTO S Hair & Makeup: M OA N A L A N I S PA

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Dress: B I J O U B R I D A L Catering + Cake: B E AC H H O U S E AT T H E M OA N A Linens: ACC E L R E N TA L S DJ + Emcee: S PE C T RU M E N T E RTA I N M E N T

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SUMMER & FALL Photographer: D AV E M I YA M OTO & CO. Dress: M AG N O L I A W H I T E Model: K AT H RY N G O N O Hair & Makeup: J ACQU E RO J A S Planner: A R LU S W E D D I N G S Video: A R I A S T U D I O S

Cake: C A K E WO R K S Venue: H AWA I I P O LO C LU B Florist: N O H E A F LO R A L Rentals: ACC E L Linen: T H E W E D D I N G L I N E N CO M PA N Y Arch: A LO H A EV E N T P RO D U C T I O N

Jewlery: S A N D E E B. Garter: J A R R E T I E R E Stationary: M I C H E L L E S N Y D E R

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Jenna Lee Pictures

THE LIST Get To Know Some of The Top Wedding Vendors Located In Hawaii.

VENUE

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OAHU

53 BY THE SEA

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 8 Starting Rate: $3,500 Contact: 808-800-3088 www.foreverbythesea.com About: Beyond the fine-dining restaurant’s famed grand staircase are two exquisite wedding chapels with breathtaking views.

From intimate ceremonies to receptions that will have your guests dancing the night away, the Chapels at 53 By The Sea are the perfect backdrop for making memories that will last a lifetime.

What is special about your business?

While our stunning views of Diamond Head and Waikiki will take your breath away it is the staff’s commitment to service that is exceptional. Our in-house coordinators, Summer House Couture Weddings + Events, specialize in creating one-of-a-kind, customizable experiences. From your first venue tour to the moment you say “I do”, we want to ensure that every moment of your big day will be a memorable one.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Frequently voted Most Romantic Restaurant by Honolulu Magazine’s Hale Aina Awards, 53 By The Sea has a reputation for excellence in fine dining in a awe-inspiring setting. Weddings at the Chapels at 53 By The Sea bring this reputation for excellence and luxury to your big day.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Ask a lot of questions!

While our ceremony packages are allinclusive we love to get creative. From bringing in a string quartet to adding overthe-top florals, we love creating unique events in this beautiful, romantic setting.

What was your most memorable wedding? Our most memorable events are the ones that add a little extra fun to their ceremony. From fairytale themed decor, romantic falling rose petals during the first dance,to confetti cannons during the “I do’s”, anything that takes our already beautiful setting and adds an extra “wowfactor” is something we love!

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ABSOLUTELY LOVED PHOTOGRAPHY Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 17 Starting Rate: $1,250 Contact: 808-779-1894 www.absolutelyloved.com About: We are Stefanie & Anna, a mother and daughter photographer duo based in Hawai'i.

What is special about your business? We believe that having a small family owned and operated business makes us special.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Together, we have over 30 years of experience photographing weddings in Hawai'i.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? We can't emphasize enough how important it is to communicate with and trust your vendors.

What was your most memorable wedding? Our most memorable wedding was the time we flew to Capetown, South Africa! It took place at a beautiful winery in the hills of Stellenbosch.

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OAHU

ALOHA WEDDING PLANNERS Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 29 Starting Rate: $1,500 Contact: 808-943-2711 www.alohaweddingplanners.com About: We are a locally owned & operated business that started out scheduling wedding ceremonies at the courthouse during lunch hour. The company has grown over the years to offer services on all islands and continues to promote the Aloha Spirit in all that we do. Our Coordinators bring in years of experience and caring to every event whether it is a small elopement, large wedding or corporate event.

What is special about your business?

We want to share a bit of aloha each and every day so our team draw passion from their love for the islands and applies this to every event. Kindness and caring are foremost in our minds.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? One of the special events I worked on was a film premiere at the Smithsonian Natural History Museum and then the same film was shown on Waikiki beach. First time that a large screen was set up and open to the public. That event paved the way for other works to be shown on large-scale screen on the beach, like Hawaii 5-O premieres!

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Don’t sweat the small stuff. So many couples get caught up in the whirlwind of stuff and emotional energy that goes into planning the special day that sometimes it can overwhelm them. Remember why you’re doing this. It’s because you love each other and want to be together in a new life adventure!

What was your most memorable wedding? So many are memorable, just in different ways! I’d say some of my most cherished events are the ones that I get to do for family. These tug at my heartstrings more because I get to do what I love and be with those closest in my life.

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PHOTO

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MAUI

AMORPHIA PHOTOGRAPHY

Based On: Maui Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 14 Starting Rate: $1,800 Contact: 808-419-0073 www.amorphiaphotography.com About: Amorphia Photography was established in London in 2006. We are a friendly and professional husband and wife team, Sofie & Paul, now based on Maui. Our philosophy is not just to meet our clients’ expectations but to go above and beyond those expectations. We proudly create images which are timeless and romantic.

What is special about your business? We believe in maintaining quality over quantity and undertake up to 20 weddings per year. This exclusivity allows us to provide personal attention and assistance to our couples and commit time to regular communication in the lead up to their wedding day. It also ensures we maintain a fresh perspective and creativity throughout the year.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? A full list of our awards can be found on our website. Most recent awards have been, 1st and 3rd place in the WPPI Wedding Album of the Year in 2018 & 2015 and we have each been named The Societies Events Photographer of the Year in 2016 & 2015.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Set aside ample time for photos of you and your partner but, above all, enjoy and appreciate every moment of your wedding day!

What was your most memorable wedding? Each wedding is special! Some are memorable because of the lasting friendships we have made with our clients.

Others are memorable because they have won us awards and other weddings have been beautifully unique such as the unforgettable surfboard wedding we photographed on Maui.

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MAUI

ANGELA NELSON PHOTOGRAPHY Based On: Maui Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 7 Starting Rate: $2,800 Contact: 808-633-1432 www.angelanelsonphoto.com About: I moved to Maui in 2009 with my husband, a few suitcases, and a chance for a new beginning. Over a decade later, I feel so lucky to call this magical place home.

Maui reignited my love for the outdoors and my love for photography. I am inspired by love, nature, and the beauty of relationships – and years from now I want you to remember how your wedding day FELT through your images.

What is special about your business? I am a moment-driven wedding photographer that focuses on connection. I aim to document moments as they happen. My secondary focus is epic portraiture. Many of my images feel cinematic; I always go for the "wow" factor.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? I am a brand ambassador for MagMod, a lighting magnification system that helps photographers control their artificial light. I am an award-winning photographer through ISPWP. I've also been nominated for the Rangefinder's 30 Rising Stars and have been featured alongside some of the best in the world in Fearless Photographers special galleries.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? There are no rules when it comes to your wedding day. If you want karaoke at your cocktail hour? Do it. Shots during your vows? Go for it. Choosing to make the day yours is the best way to honor your love story and to create a memorable experience for your guests.

What was your most memorable wedding? One of my favorite weddings was one couple who had a literal petting farm at their cocktail hour. There was a lot of laughing as the donkeys didn't want to cooperate and the miniature horse relieved himself on multiple occasions. It was definitely a wedding I'll never forget!

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PHOTO + VIDEO

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OAHU

ARIA STUDIOS

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 10 Starting Rate: $3,000 Contact: 808-734-9994 www.ariastudios.com About: ARIA Studios is a team of creatives passionate about telling stories that matter.

They specialize in commercial, lifestyle and non-profit work but their first love is LOVE. Being able to capture love and the little things that make each couple unique is truly an honor.

What is special about your business?

ARIA Studios was born to give back. In 2008, founders Jay and Kolby donated work to Zoe International - a non-profit organization rescuing orphans and children trapped in slavery. They’ve since started their own foundation and continue to work alongside Zoe as well as other organizations dedicated to saving children around the world.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We have been featured in US Weekly, Martha Stewart Weddings, Style Me Pretty, and the Knot, to name a few.

We’ve been recognized by WeddingWire, The Knot and won a Tele Award for a Wedding Special that aired on K5.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? The best tip I can give wedding couples is to write their own personal vows. It’s the easiest way to make your film unique and completely your own.

If you are more reserved and prefer not to read it out loud during the ceremony, we can always capture you reading it during a more intimate moment in the day.

What was your most memorable wedding? After shooting over a thousand weddings, it is so hard to pick just one that stands out. However, much like relationships, sometimes there is great chemistry and we get to stay connected: Julie + Mike, Jordan + Tamlyn, Minh-han + Reff, Gabe + Raina, Marichris + Norman (MC is now our Commercial Project Manager), and so many others who have become forever friends. We are so grateful for these bonds!

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FLORIST

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MAUI

BELLA BLOOM FLORAL Based On: Maui Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 12 Starting Rate: n/a Contact: 808-875-1919 www.bellabloommaui.com About: Bella Bloom is a full service flower shop, specializing in wedding and event florals. Established in 2007, we have grown into Maui’s leading florist and wedding flower specialist. Bella Bloom is a unique Maui florist as our boutique in Wailea provides an incredible location for brides to come and plan all of their wedding florals and decor. Our boutique also allows us to create and deliver modern arrangements for any special event or occasion.

What is special about your business?

We provide custom designs to every client. Whether a client is choosing florals for a wedding, corporate event or a centerpiece for their kitchen table, we work with them on the perfect design.

Our flower shop provides a creative atmosphere where a client can see our flowers, containers and other dĂŠcor to make their event one of a kind.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We have been published in many wedding publications like Brides, Style Me Pretty, The Knot, Wedding Chicks, Borrow & Blue and Magnolia Rouge.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Trust your team of vendors. We are experts in our field and will ensure your dream wedding will come to life.

What was your most memorable wedding? All of our weddings are memorable! We put a lot of heart and customization into all of our events as we want to create a memorable experience for everyone involved.

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E N T E R TA I N M E N T

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BLISS DJS HAWAII

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 9 Starting Rate: $1,000 Contact: 808-216-6504 www.blissdjshawaii.com About: Our owner Kevo, started as a DJ in the late 80's, spinning at the clubs back in the day. He's worked with many companies in the beginning, but he's focused his efforts on weddings more seriously over the past decade. Started with only himself running events, but decided to start Bliss DJs. His DJ & Emcee team love to produce great events and utilizes their many great talents to help them along. They all get a kick out of meeting the challenges and producing very successful events. Their musical knowledge ranges from the 60's to the present. A little bit of country, rock and alternative are always in the mix if needed.

What is special about your business?

We are a full service DJ company, with ceremony, officiant, DJ, emcee, custom lighting & effects and photobooth – All-inOne team.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Over 300 reviews on multiple platforms. WeddingWire and TheKnot rated too.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Have fun with your music and make it super personal to yourselves.

What was your most memorable wedding? We have had too many and can’t just pick one.

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C AT E R E R

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OAHU

CHEF CHAI

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 25 Starting Rate: $65 per person Contact: 808-330-0279 www.chefchai.com About: Ask anyone in Hawaii about us, Chef Chai is recognized as one of Hawaii’s top Hawaii Regional Cuisine chefs. Known for fusing fresh Hawaii ingredients with the exotic flavors of Asia, Chef Chai has created a culinary style that reflects the cultural diversity of Oahu and the Hawaiian Islands.

What is special about your business? To strengthen the partnership with Hawaii’s local farmers and fishermen, Chef Chai co-founded Hawaii Island Chefs (HIC) This group of HIC chefs is on a mission to provide the world with the best of Hawaii’s diverse culinary resources from the culture of the people and the bounty of the land and sea.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Winner of the Hale Aina Awards "BEST CATERING", by Honolulu Magazine readers. Also featured as best catering in Martha Stewart Wedding, New York Times, Wedding Wire and The Knot.

Many celebrity clients included Justin Timberlake, Kathy Ireland, Robin Leach and more.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Hiring an experience wedding planner, it will make your special day smooth and easy. A good wedding planner can help you plan and execute a perfect event from the beginning to the end.

What was your most memorable wedding? Must be one of the catering we did at the Lanikuhonua, 300 guest, 9 course dinner, 180 bottles Dom Perignon.

But the most memorable came after all the guests left and the couple just turned on the music from their phone and started to slow dance in the dark in each others arms.

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OAHU

CHERISHED IN HAWAII WEDDINGS Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 15 Starting Rate: $2,000 Contact: 808-800-4109 www.cherishedinhawaiiweddings.com About: Cherished in Hawaii Weddings is an expert full-service wedding planning company based in Honolulu. Our dedicated team of creatives specializes in bringing together exquisite and unforgettable weddings for couples from all over the world.

Whether they are dreaming of an intimate gathering or a grand and stylish affair, each wedding is planned with the couple’s love and friendship in mind.

What is special about your business? Our team shares broad and varied experience working with many different couples. And so we have had the privilege of being featured in numerous publications, as well as receiving hundreds of 5-star reviews on The Knot, Wedding Wire, and Yelp from plenty of delighted couples.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? NACE Hawaii Wedding of the Year Award 2019; The Knot Best of Weddings and Hall of Fame 2011-2020; Wedding Wire Couple’s Choice Awards 2012-2020; Featured on Aisle Planner and Diversity Wedding Magazine.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? We love it when we see couples incorporate unique details of their personalities and interests into their wedding. Something as simple as personalized table numbers can make great conversation among guests and make the day especially memorable.

What was your most memorable wedding? One couple approached us dreaming of an Iron Man triathlon-themed wedding. The bride and groom are talented and spirited athletes and wished to incorporate their passions in as many details as possible – their arch featured a unique bicycle spoke installation; the aisle resembled a “starting line” signifying the beginning of a new chapter in their lives; guests were treated to a "hydration station" and were awarded custom medals.

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OAHU

COUTURE WEDDINGS HAWAII Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu & Kauai Years In Business: 17 Starting Rate: $2,000 Contact: 808-741-8757 www.coutureweddingshawaii.net About: Couture Weddings Hawaii focuses on providing high-quality service with the utmost care for our clients and attention to detail. We dedicate ourselves in turning each occasion into a beautiful...memorable...and seamless event!

What is special about your business?

Couture Weddings Hawaii understands the non-traditional nature of today's modern couples and strives to showcase their personalities with their own unique styles.

We have the passion and an optimistic spirit to define all possibilities and create something that says, "This is You!" What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? With Shari Dang's (Principal Coordinator) continuing education during this pandemic, she is anticipating to receive a diploma in Interior Design by Fall 2020, a certification from an institution recognized worldwide in the interior design industry. The capabilities of using her new learned knowledge will turn your ideas into a reality! We are also licensed to perform Weddings in the State of Hawaii (for emergencies only).

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? As you build a relationship with Couture Weddings Hawaii (and with your vendors), you will begin to establish a close and harmonious relationship, where you will feel comfortable in communicating your thoughts and feelings of both positives and negatives. We strongly believe that communication is key!

What was your most memorable wedding? We love weddings that are fun!

We love when couples are happy and feel beautiful and are in love! We love when couples let their guard down and truly enjoy every minute and every hour with their families and friends!

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FLORAL

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OAHU

CREATIVE CONCEPTS

BY JEFF Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 8 Starting Rate: $3,500 Contact: 808-398-5403 www.jeffalencastre.com About: From fairy-tale curtains of lush roses to dripping bouquets of romantic blooms, Creative Concepts by Jeff excels in crafting the floral masterpieces of your wedding dreams. We work personally with each couple from the start, developing a cohesive, stunning vision based on each clients' unique budget, tastes and needs.

On the day of, step back, de-stress and let us work our magic: With over a decade of experience in the event business and floral-design world, we are experts at executing top-tier occasions from setup to breakdown.

What is special about your business?

We’ve built an eclectic mix of rental vases that we offer to clients to help maximize their flower budgets while also being more environmentally friendly, reducing waste and disposable plastics.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Our floral work has been featured in numerous publications & websites over the years including, Honolulu Magazine, Destination Wedding Details, Hawaii Wedding Style, Confetti Daydreams, Wedding Chicks and more.

One shining moment was having our florals featured on the cover of the summer/fall 2017 issue of Hawaii Bride and Groom.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? When it comes to flowers, trust in your florist’s expertise to offer ideas and flower mixes that are seasonally available and will work with the natural environment and atmosphere of your wedding.

What was your most memorable wedding? Last year, we imported over 5,000 hydrangeas & roses for a large ceremony installation. The sheer volume of flower product and design mechanics needed to execute the designs really pushed our creative boundaries which was exhilarating and extremely satisfying.

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DAVE MIYAMOTO & CO. Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 29 Starting Rate: $2,400 Contact: 808-383-5884 www.davemiyamoto.com About: Leading the pack as a multi-awardwinning photographer, Dave Miyamoto possesses the exceptional ability of capturing the emotion and fleeting moments so true of a wedding. Born and raised in Kuli'ou'ou, O'ahu, Dave is known for his comfortable, and approachable personality so characteristic of his Hawaiian up-bringing. He is able to easily connect, anticipate and capture the wedding day as it unfolds naturally and organically - the anxious preparations, the intricate details, the symbolism of love, the only-on-yourwedding-day gaze of a couple in love, and the ever-present unspoken sentiments.

Experience and technical skills, together with his passion for life, and creating incomparable images in lasting photos, that relay the moment, is what makes Dave Miyamoto a truly exceptional photographer.

What is special about your business?

With over 29 years of experience, Dave Miyamoto Photography has the skills and creativity you can trust.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? WeddingWire Couples Choice Awards 2014, 2016, 2018, 2019, Best Wedding Photographer 2016 Expertise Awards, 2020 Best of Honolulu Awards in the category of Commercial & Industrial Photographers, The Knots Best of Wedding Photographers 2013, President Oahu Wedding Association 2007-2009, Treasures Oahu Wedding Association 2006.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Trust your photographer and enjoy your wedding day.

What was your most memorable wedding? So far it would have to my own wedding but when my kids get married that will be the best weddings ever!

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DEREK WONG PHOTOGRAPHY

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 19 Starting Rate: $3,000 Contact: 808-352-9072 www.derekwongphotography.com About: Hawaii’s very own renowned wedding photographer, Derek Wong, has captivated his audiences with his inspiring editorial wedding images. Derek thrives on creativity and explores every wedding to capture honest and romantic images. His professionalism and soft demeanor gives him a very approachable style to get in close to the most intimate occasions without compromising any moments.

What is special about your business?

Derek’s authentic style of creating beautiful images has really set him apart from his peers. He will not only learn more about your wedding plans but will give guidance and direction that will further enhance your photography experience with him.

What truly sets him apart from other photographers in this field are his attention to detail, his commitment to quality, and his talent for capturing moving images – images that are at once spontaneous and elegant, authentic and timeless, poignant and artfully beautiful.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Published in Grace Ormonde Wedding Style, Junebug Weddings, Style Me Pretty, Carats & Cake, Hawaii Wedding Style, Praise Wedding, Borrowed & Blue, Wedding Wire, The Knot, Spur Magazine, Vancouver Magazine, Wallpaper, The New York Times, and Style Magazine.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Give yourself enough time on your wedding schedule so that you can be present and fully enjoy the wedding day.

What was your most memorable wedding? During the ceremony, it started to downpour. The show must go on as the bride & groom proudly walked down the aisle, the guests cheering in the rain and I was honored to be their chosen Photographer to capture the excitement.

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DESIGNS BY HEMINGWAY

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 10 Starting Rate: $3,500 Contact: 808-294-4194 www.designsbyhemingway.com About: I am a destination wedding florist specializing in beautiful lush artful floral designs for weddings & elopements. My design aesthetic is best described as romantic textural floral art. Based on the island of Oahu. I also travel to all neighbor islands & worldwide to design & style weddings.

What is special about your business? I created an online shop to sell beautiful heirlooms from my traveling collections and I offer designer & vintage dress rentals for engagement shoots & elopements in Hawaii. Our new “Artful Floral Elopements” packages are exquisite romantic coastal floral collections for intimate weddings in Hawaii.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? I created an online shop to sale beautiful heirlooms from my traveling collections and offer rental dresses for engagements & elopements in Hawaii. I offer “Artful Floral Elopements” packages for intimate weddings in Hawaii.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? A venue can influence your floral decor, styling and rentals so make sure you book your wedding date and venue first before contacting vendors for a quote. The most efficient way to receive a floral quote is to have your design inspiration images organized in pinterest boards and then you can share that link with your florist, planner & other wedding vendors.

What was your most memorable wedding? Designing a recent wedding on the island of Lanai at the 12th hole at Four Seasons Resort. It is truly a luxury experience & has the most beautiful view in the world!

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DJ TROY MICHAEL

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu, Hawaii Island Years In Business: 12 Starting Rate: $2,100 Contact: 808-256-2003 www.djtroyhawaii.com About: Troy’s DJ style can be described as “Fun, Refined, & Modern”. He strives to be unique and does not play “Cha Cha Slide”, “YMCA”, or “Electric Slide” type songs commonly played by many DJs. He keeps his dance floor filled by relying on music knowledge & smooth club style mixing skills.

What is special about your business? I am not a production/package type DJ company. I am owner operated. I will always be your DJ & Emcee and point of contact. I do not subcontract or manage other DJs, Emcees or other events.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Wedding Wire’s Couples choice Award 10 years in a row. The Knot’s Best of Wedding Award Winner.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? My advice to couples is to make every minute of your wedding day count. If you want your wedding to be fun, keep your formal program short. The fun will truly start when you can dance, mingle and socialize with your friends and family.

What was your most memorable wedding? My most memorable wedding was for Lindsey & Chris. Their outdoor wedding took place during a major pop up storm which would make most couples call off the day. Their energy and carefree attitude was contagious and everyone danced non-stop for 4 hours on a flooded dance floor that was basically underwater.

To have 150 people forget about the worst weather conditions I have every seen at a wedding and dance the night away was truly unforgettable.

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DMITRI AND SANDRA PHOTOGRAPHY Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 10 Starting Rate: $2,000 Contact: 808-276-8568 www.dmitriandsandra.com About: Aloha, we are Dmitri and Sandra. Best friends, adventurers, business partners and husband and wife photography team. With an innovative spirit for storytelling, fine art, and incredible scenery, we strive to capture stunning photographs while remaining a force of encouragement and calm on our couple's special day. Our images are composed with purpose to capture both the editorial detail, as well as genuine moments as they unfold.

What is special about your business? We are a husband and wife team which allows us to help our couples feel comfortable in front of our cameras, let loose and enjoy their special day. As we are both lead shooters, we can be in different areas and cover different events that go on at the same time. Our goal is to deliver wedding photos that are authentic, joyful and that will pass the test of time. We want our couples to look at their wedding album and relive their day year after year.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Published within the pages of Inside Weddings, Destination I Do and Pacific Weddings Magazine. As seen on Magnolia Rouge, Style Me Pretty, 100 Layer Cake, Ruffled, Junebug Weddings, Wedding Sparrow, Carats and Cake, among others.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? To not sweat the small things and have a well-thought wedding timeline with lots of buffer time. The wedding day goes so fast. It is important to have time to take it all in and enjoy all the details you carefully selected and every guest that came to celebrate with you.

What was your most memorable wedding? Ohhh we couldn't pick one. Each wedding is so unique and special because each of our couples is unique and special.

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ÉCLAT PHOTOGRAPHY

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 15 Starting Rate: $1,500 Contact: 808-256-3441 www.eclatphoto.com About: Based in Honolulu, Hawaii, éclat photography was created by George Wang with the support of his wife Shiho to fulfill his photojournalistic vision of wedding and lifestyle photography here in the Pacific. George has photographed more than a thousand of weddings for both local and visiting families and has performed lifestyle, commercial, and modeling shoots for a variety of clients. George’s intuitive abilities and extensive practical experience give him an exclusive perspective. Constantly attentive and always in the moment, George is honored to provide you with his skill for turning seemingly "everyday" moments into your family's treasures.

What is special about your business?

At éclat, your radiant will be taken care of. Stylish and fun, sophisticated and emotional, candid and beautiful—your images will remain with you and yours for generations. We are honored to provide our vision & service transforming your event from mere recollections into a permanent part of your life.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We’ve been published and featured many weddings on Hawaii Wedding Style magazine. We’ve been part of 1500 + wedding celebrations and more to count!

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Wedding is all about you. Start planning early! Hire a wedding coordinator. And enjoying your special day.

What was your most memorable wedding? We can’t choose one single wedding because every wedding is special to us in its own way. We get teary eyes photographing a wedding all the time.

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ESSELLE WEDDINGS & EVENTS Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 3 Starting Rate: $2,200 Contact: 808-391-8697 www.esselleweddings.com About: Esselle Weddings and Events is a bespoke wedding planning and coordination company. With a limited number of bookings per month, we employ a personalized approach in getting to know each couple and custom create a wedding plan for them. No two weddings are alike, and no two planners are the same. We focus on building a meaningful relationship between our clients and team that extends well past the wedding day.

What is special about your business? We are a small locally owned company that employs young dreamers and aspiring hospitality professionals for each event.

We are a tight knit team that believes every wedding deserves time and affection pre-wedding and especially on the wedding day! We are here to support our couples throughout their wedding journey and deligently work with you to customize your wedding plans.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? I’m honored to have been published in Wedding Chicks, Junebug Weddings, and featured with WedSites.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? On the day of your wedding, trust your wedding team and just let go. Enjoy the bubbly, laughter, and embrace all the love that your friends and family are showering upon you. Your memories are precious so live in the moment.

What was your most memorable wedding? Our team’s most memorable wedding took place last fall at the ‘Iolani Palace. Working with a young and upcoming local designer, our Bride thoughtfully designed all of the linens for her reception, as well as her favors and giveaways. She also collaborated with another local designer for her custom Monstera leaf inspired wedding dress. The details were absolutely stunning.

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EVER AFTER MOMENTS

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 4 Starting Rate: $1,600 Contact: 808-499-8350 www.everaftermomentshawaii.com About: Four years in the making of planning and coordinating effortless events.

This is a hobby that turned into a full time business all because I realized as a bride, my fellow brides would need someone to execute the day.

What is special about your business? By God’s grace, we are blessed to not be limited only to coordination and planning.

We offer a variation of services from cakes and sweets, rustic rentals, floral, and even elopement photography.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? An accomplishment would definitely be having the opportunity to check off venues from my wishlist of local venues. I have a goal to plan an event at every local venue within the next two years. So far my amazing couples have given me the chance to check off a good percentage of that list.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? The day is yours. Always prioritize what means most to you for the day of so that you have no regrets when you look back at your wedding day.

What was your most memorable wedding? My most memorable wedding would be an intimate elopement in a sunflower field with a gorgeous backdrop of one of our beautiful mountain ranges.

Emotion, simplicity, and love.

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THE EWA BEACH HOUSE

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 4 Starting Rate: $1,300 Contact: 808-829-1423 www.thebesthawaiiwedding.com About: On the west side of Oahu, The Ewa Beach House oceanfront estate provides couples with a chance to create their dream wedding day. This elegant private home is a dynamic indoor/outdoor space with a modern take on island decor. Known for its year round gorgeous weather.

Discover this little known secret of one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.

Sparkling white sands, azure skies and teal blue waters. Loose track of time as you're being mesmerized by the sights and sounds of the glorious Pacific Ocean. You'll be relaxing in a luxury two story brand new custom beachfront home. Located on a private lane with restricted public access. The indoor space has several gathering places for your guests to explore and enjoy. Let us help you imagine a chic and exclusive private event!

What is special about your business?

With over 30 years of experience in the wedding industry, we have experience in all areas to ensure your special day is memorable.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We have been featured numerous times in Hawaii Wedding Style Magazine and The Knot.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Enjoy your wedding day and leave the details to the experts.

What was your most memorable wedding? Since all of our clients are treated like family, all of our weddings are memorable in our eyes.

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EXQUISITE VIBES ENTERTAINMENT

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 1 Starting Rate: $1,150 Contact: 808-223-4827 www.exquisitevibesentertainment.com About: Exquisite Vibes Entertainment has 20 years of experience. We take pride in what we do and love the value in each of the services we provide, which includes dj, emcee, uplighting and many more. Our mission is to provide a quality experience at an affordable price.

What is special about your business? “ Music is what feelings sound like.” We captivate every moment with a melody or tune to enhance the overall experience.

Every event is a production that we produce with flawless execution.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? As a newly established business, we have not had the honor of receiving any awards. However, our greatest reward is the happiness and appreciation we receive from our clients.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Never forget the love you have for one another. People can change, but the love you have, doesn’t have to. Evolve together and lean on LOVE. What was your most memorable wedding? The most memorable wedding, would most definitely be the first wedding we worked together as a TEAM. It was a night of “firsts” that laid the groundwork and foundation to provide an unbreakable friendship, business partnership, and a newly established business now known as Exquisite Vibes Entertainment.

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FISHEYE STUDIO

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 11 Starting Rate: $3,600 Contact: 808-561-8193 www.fisheyestudio.com About: Since 2009, Josh Fair and his team have been filming weddings all over the islands. Known for using our custom approach to every wedding, no two films will ever be close to the same because neither are our couples. We like to say, “We don’t film weddings. We film couples who are getting married.”.

What is special about your business? In addition to our cinematic films we produce, we’re also a pioneer in live streaming for weddings having done our first in 2004.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? In 2019, Fisheye Studio was awarded the Filmmaker of Excellence as voted by a nationwide panel of their industry peers of the WIPA (Wedding Industry Professionals Association) which is the largest network of wedding professionals in the country.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? We recommend a first look to capture a unique moment and to also allow for photos to be spread out so you can relax and enjoy the entire day.

What was your most memorable wedding? Wow, so many amazing ones!

One of the most powerful was when a groom who was confined to a wheelchair since suffering an accident was able to stand for his vows and dance with his bride.

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FROM ABOVE ENTERTAINMENT

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 4 Starting Rate: $950 Contact: 808-398-2462 www.fromaboveentertainment.com About: We are a full-service mobile entertainment company providing Emcee, DJ, Photo booth, Monogram, Lighting, Cold Sparks, & Projection mapping service. As a husband & wife team, our goal is to provide professional & quality service to clients looking to have a fun & memorable event.

Wedding packages are available.

What is special about your business? We value the importance of having a stress free, personalized, & fun event. With great energy & experience we will be sure to help you create a MEMORABLE time!

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Wedding Wire Couples Choice Awards 2019 & 2020. NACE Ekahi Awards DJ of the Year 2019.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? On the day of your wedding forget about EVERYTHING. Don’t stress about little things. Live in the moment & enjoy it because in a blink of an eye your Special day will go by so FAST! What was your most memorable wedding? All of the weddings we did were very memorable. But the one that stuck out the most would have to be our first biggest wedding when we first started our business. We will never forget, there was 26 total on the bridal line with a 3 tier head table on the stage, 500 guest count and the Bride flew over a special singer to surprise the Groom which was Spawn Breezie!

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HALE HOU

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 10 Starting Rate: $300 Contact: 808-596-2539 www.halehouhawaiianmusic.com About: We are Hale Hou (Home Again), a duo that specializes in traditional Hawaiian Music (slack key guitar, ukulele, nose flute, conch shell, and ipu heke). We are local boys who grew up on Oahu, retired from the military, and returned to the islands after 30+ years of being away to rejoin our ‘Ohana ame Ho’aloha (family and friends).

Hale Hou has performed at weddings, anniversaries, Hawaiian luaus, birthdays, kupuna (senior) centers and luncheons; social events, restaurants, and special private functions.

What is special about your business? We blend traditional Hawaiian instruments into our performances and bring Aloha to your special wedding day. Catering to each couple’s individual needs, we tailor our performances to the bride and groom’s vision. We’ll perform as part of your wedding ceremony, rehearsal dinner or any other part of your special occasion.

If you’d like to include traditional hula with our performance, we can arrange that as well.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Performed at the Smithsonian Museum of American History, Senator Daniel Akaka’s Lying-in-State, and numerous Hawaii State Society events.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Coordinate with your musician a minimum of 30-days before your special day to finalize your music list or special request.

What was your most memorable wedding? My wedding day (41 years ago) - I can still see my young bride’s face glowing through her veil as a rainbow from the chapel stained-glass windows shone upon her, and the Hawaiian Wedding song played in the background.

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HANALANI CHAPEL

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 4 Starting Rate: $2,255 Contact: 808-829-1423 www.thebesthawaiiwedding.com About: Nestled in a lush tropical oasis, a charming Victorian chapel sits at the water’s edge. The verdant garden setting is home to some of Hawaii’s most exquisite tropical flowers surrounded by rolling green landscape. The versatile grounds can comfortably accommodate a large outdoor celebration or an intimate chapel wedding.

Newly renovated, the chapel features romantic architectural details and custom travertine and onyx stone flooring, illuminated by whimsical crystal chandeliers.

The sunlit chapel is a picturesque setting for a storybook wedding. While it feels like a secluded retreat, the chapel is located conveniently in the heart of Honolulu and near the airport, just 15 minutes away from Waikiki, with ample parking for your guests.

What is special about your business?

With over 30 years of experience in the wedding industry, we have experience in all areas to ensure your special day is memorable.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We have been featured numerous times in Hawaii Wedding Style Magazine and The Knot.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Enjoy your wedding day and leave the details to the experts.

What was your most memorable wedding? Since all of our clients are treated like family, all of our weddings are memorable in our eyes.

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HARP HAWAII

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 37 Starting Rate: $295 Contact: 808-737-6422 www.harphawaii.com About: Sharing the art of harp, with strings of Aloha. Specializing in weddings, ceremonies, events and elegant experiences. Performing the harp for weddings and private events for over 35 years mostly on the island of O’ahu. Although classically trained, I love contemporary over classical repertoire. Mostly, I am hired for harp solo.

The harp is wonderfully complimented by other instruments such as the flute, the saxophone or the violin. I book by contract.

I have a splendid admin team that helps the me every step of the way so that I can do what I do best.

What is special about your business?

From a testimonial : “ Harp playing that doesn’t put you to sleep. Classy, on time, professional and played a few pop songs on harp we loved and Hawaiian classics, lovely” Amber R. What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? 2013 pick - the knot Best of Weddings. Member of Oahu Wedding Association since 2009. American Harp Society.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? When you have your date, time and location in place, you are ready to book live harp music. One hour booking covers 15 minutes while guests arrive, 30 minutes for ceremony and wrap up the hour with photos. Add another hour for to entertain your guests’ cocktail reception while you are away taking photos.

What was your most memorable wedding? I performed for two memorable weddings; one for my nephew and the other for my step-daughter. Inevitably, family dramas unfolded. My choices of music were more meaningful.

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HAWAII EVENTS UNLIMITED Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 5 Starting Rate: $900 Contact: 808-551-6951 www.hawaiieventsunlimited.com About: We are an event production company which provides you with services that are essential for your wedding. We are always innovating to bring you new and exciting services which will make your wedding extra special.

What is special about your business? Our business is based on the ability to provide an experience and evoke emotion for a once in a lifetime moment. We provide future forward services to keep up with trends like Projection Mapping, Cold Spark Effects, Dynamic Choreographed Lighting, and more all led by professionals who are experts in their respective fields.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Ekahi Choice Award's nominee for Company of the Year 2019, Chamber of Commerce Hawaii featured member, One808 highlighted company, Mobile Beat DJ Magazine 2019 featured article, National Association of Caters and Events member, Oahu Wedding Association Board, Featured on KITV4, KHON's Take 2, Hawaii News Now, 102.7's Buzzin Cuzzins, Community and Media recognition for Essential and Healthcare workers tributes, Community and Media recognition for Graduation Class of 2020 setup dedications, Launched the Hawaii Wedding Showcase.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Get a coordinator!

What was your most memorable wedding? Mark & Abi's San Francisco Bridge Recreation Wall to Wall Projection Mapping Wedding.

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HAWAII WEDDING FILMS + PHOTO Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 10 Starting Rate: $750 Contact: 808www.hawaiiweddingfilmsandphotos.com About: With over 10 years filming weddings, we specialize in capturing small destination weddings and delivering an amazing product that is affordable. We know that coming to Hawaii is expensive and you’ve already spent a lot of money planning your trip here and now comes the daunting task of finding a wedding videographer and/or photographer who you can trust, creates an amazing product and won’t break the bank. Look no further, you’ve come to the right place!

What is special about your business?

Hawaii Wedding Films + Photos creates truly personal and authentic films from the most important day in a couple’s life.

We are Hawaii wedding videographers and specialize in destination weddings. If you are planning a wedding built around your love for one another and are excited to celebrate with your friends and family, let’s get started and create an amazing wedding film together.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We have been featured numerous times in Hawaii Wedding Style Magazine!

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Hire a coordinator so you can just enjoy your special day and don't have to worry about anything.

What was your most memorable wedding? We love all our wedding couples and each wedding is so special!

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HOT HAWAIIAN WEDDINGS Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 10 Starting Rate: $1,900 Contact: 808-729-2651 www.hothawaiianweddings.com About: “Hot Hawaiian Weddings” is an uplifting, inspirational TV show that captures the incredible experience of getting married in Hawaii, the world’s premier wedding destination. Features include the wedding, an outdoor adventure, the photographer, and the Hawaiian culture. The show airs prime time on K5 throughout the state of Hawaii on Wednesdays at 7:30pm and Saturdays at 5:30pm. Contact the show executives to have your wedding featured on this brilliant and unique TV show!

What is special about your business?

"Hot Hawaiian Weddings" is the premier wedding show of Hawaii.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? The recent survey revealed that over 100,000 people throughout the State of Hawaii watch the show.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Have fun and enjoy the ride!

What was your most memorable wedding? When one of our couples went sky diving the day before the wedding.

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ILUMINI

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 23 Starting Rate: $3,000 Contact: 808-781-7232 www.ilumini.net About: Lester has been in the wedding photography industry exclusively for the past 23 years. Born in Tokyo but raised in Hawaii, he is bilingual in English and Japanese, and he is currently active in Hawaii and Tokyo with his portrait photography business.

What is special about your business?

Lester is the first Japan born Master of WPPI (Wedding and Portrait Photography International) the most biggest and prestigious wedding photography industry association, and the only Master of WPPI in Hawaii and Japan.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Aside from his Masters, Lester has received numerous accolades from the WPPI Awards of Excellence Photography Competition, competing against the top wedding photographers in the world receiving over 30 awards for his portrait photography in this prestigious competition. (considered the “Oscar� of the Wedding Photography industry) What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? With so many choices out there, pick a photographer that matches your style and personality.

What was your most memorable wedding? I had the privilege of shooting the wedding of Shun Oguri and Yu Yamada, famous celebrities in Japan.

During the reception, some members of the Japanese pop group ARASHI performed for the couple, it was electric!

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JAMIE LEE NOGUCHI

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 2 Starting Rate: $1,500 Contact: 808-391-1947 www.jamieleenoguchi.com About: Photos are forever. So the photographer you choose should forever represent you and your love story! As a born-and-raised Hawai'i girl, my approach to wedding photography is influenced by unique cultures and a desire to highlight individual stories. I personalize every client experience to showcase their own special legacy.

What is special about your business?

This is my artistic outlet. It is my bare soul.

When you support my small business, you support a real person who invests their all into giving you the absolute essence of love for photography. I thrive on making clients feel their BEST and I will be with them every step of the planning journey.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Every single wedding is its own beautiful accomplishment! With an extensive background in journalism and communications, I bring a documentarystyle focus to crafting a complete narrative. I have been published locally in Honolulu Weekly and Honolulu Magazine, and have been featured on wedding websites such as Wedding Pioneer.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Don't try to replicate a Pinterest post! Instead, find what specific nostalgic or emotional aspects you enjoy, and focus on executing those details on your Big Day! What was your most memorable wedding? Last year, I photographed a yoga-inspired wedding! The couple met on a soul-searching trip and spent their first date under a waterfall. They wanted to bring that same free spirit to their beachfront wedding with a turquoise and yellow color scheme, pineapple-themed decor, and led a yoga class for their guests!

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JEANNEMARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 11 Starting Rate: $3,500 Contact: 808-338-6973 www.jeannemariephoto.com About: I’m a destination wedding photographer, serving all Hawaiian islands. There’s nothing better than being a part of your wedding day. Documenting the coming together of two people forming a new family. These will be the memories that your children’s children will continue to share.

My style has been described as romantic, modern and, timeless. My creative journey with a love of chasing light, movies, story telling, and intimate connections keeps me inspired to continue on.

What is special about your business?

Being the one vendor you’ll be spending most of your day with, I feel as it’s my responsibility to help you make sure you know what to expect on your wedding day. I give all my couples a “Wedding Guide” that’s packed with over 55 pages of useful information to be photo ready!

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? My work has been featured in several international wedding blogs such a Magnolia Rouge, Amber and Muse & Hawaii Wedding Style.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? One of my best tips for couples is, consult with your photographer closely while you’re planning your timeline.

Your wedding day flies by in a flash and all you’ll have in the end are your images.

You’ll want to be sure you have enough time for everything to be covered.

What was your most memorable wedding? All my weddings are memorable!

I’d say one that sticks out is Samantha + Ben. Ben’s mother had been going under Chemo and was confined to a wheelchair…

When it was time for the Mother-Son dance. She surprised us all and stood up to dance with her son. There wasn’t a dry eye and I had to remember to keep on shooting because I too, was in tears.

It truly was so beautiful to witness and capture for them to have…always.

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JENNA LEE PICTURES

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 11 Starting Rate: $1,000 Contact: 808-339-6659 www.jennaleepictures.com About: Wedding Photography + Videography for Wild Hearts. From Adventurous Elopements to Large Luxurious Weddings and everything in between, we love capturing rad humans in love. Inspired by the unique elements that make your story beautiful and authentic. Experienced to handle any and all situations, rain or shine we'll create magic with you.

What is special about your business?

We are known for our Adventurous Elopements and our Gorgeous, Authentic Wedding Photos. we’ll provide as much guidance as you'd like, to help ensure your moments unfold beautifully and in the most REAL way possible. Crafting sweet moments with your favorite humans.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Top 3 Wedding Photographers in the world by Wedaward, World's Best Wedding Photography by Junebug Weddings, Green Wedding Shoes Preferred Wedding Artist, Couple Voted Best of Weddings consistently by the Knot and Wedding Wire. Featured on The Today Show, HuffPost, Buzzfeed, Yahoo, BravoTV, BRIDES, Refinery 29,FoxNews, HNN, Mashable, Popsugar, + more.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Hire the humans who resonate with you the most! They'll be along for your adventure and you will reflect their energy.

What was your most memorable wedding? All of my weddings have actually been incredibly memorable!

Each couple is so unique and different and we love capturing that unique vibe and curating that authentic story. Also, capturing Wedding Photos with the flowing lava will always be an incredible experience I will forever be grateful for.

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JOANNA TANO PHOTOGRAPHY

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 13 Starting Rate: $1,600 Contact: 808-280-5230 www.joannatano.com About: Natural beauty in a natural light.

"It’s beauty that captures your attention; personality which captures your heart." ~Anonymous ~ With camera work that reveals both the elegance of the natural world and the richly expressive personal moments of the wedding ceremony and celebration, Joanna Tano’s photography captures both your attention and your heart.

What is special about your business? With the combination of using natural light and utilizing creative lighting techniques, and with a keen sense of composition, Joanna honors the mood of each moment.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Published in multiple magazines and websites such as Hawaii Bride and Groom, Pacific Weddings, Style Me Pretty, and more.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Be in the moment on your wedding day, don’t worry if things don’t go exactly how they were planned.

There are always surprises and its best to go with the flow of the day and embrace the things you can’t always control and enjoy them.

What was your most memorable wedding? A 3-day Indian wedding with beautiful decor, meaningful cultural traditions, and so much love and emotion!

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JOSEPH ESSER PHOTO+VIDEO

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 10 Starting Rate: $3,500 Contact: 808-259-1475 www.esserphotography.com About: I love to think of my photography and our films as timeless… something that reflects the true personalities and experiences of each of our couple’s wedding day. Storytelling is extremely important to me. Our goal is to capture each wedding in real ways that gives life and voice to our couples. I also love all of our adventurous couples who want to take risks, get off the beaten path, and do something outside the box.

What is special about your business?

We are a full service wedding studio and provide photography, videography, and photo booths. Our photo and video team shoot collaboratively so that when we can be more efficient with our couples time so they can be as present at their wedding as possible.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Our company’s most recent accomplishment was being published nationally in this Summer’s edition of Bridal Guide magazine.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Find a photographer that you connect with because they will be with you all day long. I think that is why it’s so important to meet or Zoom with a couple of different photographers before you book them. The last thing you want is to hire a photographer that is annoying you all day.

What was your most memorable wedding? My own wedding of course (wife is proofreading, jk). As of right now, I would say my most memorable wedding was about four months ago at Lanikuhonua, pre-covid. It was a huge, three tent wedding with about 800 people.

This seems impossible now but looking back, wow, that was a party.

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JULIE D WIRTZ KAUAI OFFICIANT AND CELEBRANT Based On: Kauai Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 15 Starting Rate: $250 Contact: 808-652-9443 www.kauaiofficiant.com About: I offer non-religious style wedding ceremonies. My ceremony scripts focus on human values and the personal strengths and responsibilities important to your marriage. I perform casual beach weddings as well as elegant formal events.

What is special about your business?

Unlike many officiants performing destination weddings, I personally meet with my wedding couples in advance to discuss the ceremony script in person, so the ceremony will genuinely reflect the couple’s feelings and intentions, for a meaningful and memorable event for them and their guests.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Experience, professionalism, resources, and a knack for making weddings simple and stress free, by offering some control over the ceremony content. Humanistic weddings are inspirational without imposing a religious worship service on wedding guests who might have different religious beliefs. For many years, I was the only humanistic minister in the state of Hawaii, which made me very popular! Now, more couples are requesting non-religious ceremonies, so more officiants offer secular style ceremonies as well.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Slow it down. Relax and enjoy the wedding ceremony. Speak meaningfully when making your vows, place the ring on your mate’s finger so they can see it going on, and seal your vows with a tender kiss to end the ceremony!

What was your most memorable wedding? Each wedding is memorable in its own way, from a groom singing his vows, to couples jumping into the ocean to celebrate, to guests responding with signs and shouts of “Do it already!” when asked if anyone objected to the marriage, haha!

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KAI-PHOTO

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 15 Starting Rate: $3,000 Contact: 808-591-1882 www.kai-photo.com About: We are Kyler and Grace, the husband and wife team behind Kai-Photo Hawaii. We love all things WEDDING and are extremely passionate about what we do. Our goal is to provide an exceptional experience to each of our clients from the very beginning to the very end - not just on the wedding day. In fact, we were recently awarded The Knot's Best of Weddings Hall of Fame for consistently exceeding our client's expectations year after year.

What is special about your business?

We notice the little details. From the initial planning, through photography on the wedding day, editing your images, and designing your custom heirloom album it's the little details that make a difference between something good and something great.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We are rated one of Hawaii's top wedding photographers by Bridebox and featured in Pacific Weddings Magazine, Martha Stewart Weddings, Style Me Pretty, The Knot, Forbes.com Lifestyle, and the nationally acclaimed TV show "The Insider" for a celebrity vow renewal.

However, our most meaningful accolades are positive reviews from past couples, knowing that we delivered a 5-star experience for them.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Schedule your hair & makeup trial on the same day as your engagement session. That way, you’ll be able to see how your makeup looks on camera and make adjustments for the wedding day if needed.

What was your most memorable wedding? Some of our most memorable weddings have been with clients turned friends as we continue to document their milestones and growing families.

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KARMA HILL PHOTOGRAPHY

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Maui, Oahu, Kauai Years In Business: 13 Starting Rate: $800 Contact: 808-213-7090 www.karmahill.com About: At Karma Hill Photography, we’re a team of professional Hawaii photographers who love capturing our clients’ lasting memories! We specialize in light and airy photos, capturing soft and beautiful images that are sure to withstand the test of time.

With an editing team that’s one of the best in Hawaii, we ensure consistent quality with every photo. Our friendly photographers follow your lead, allowing you to be in the moment as they capture stunning wedding memories.

What is special about your business?

Karma Hill Photography is the exclusive photography team for Simple Maui Wedding and Simple Oahu Wedding. Our photographers are not only incredibly talented, but they’re also friendly and sociable - we truly adore our clients! We pride ourselves on open communication, and we encourage you to send inspirational images and shot-lists so we can help make your photography dreams come true.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We are honored to receive The Knot’s 2020 “Best of Weddings” and our photography has been featured in over 80 publications, including TheKnot. com, Bridal Guide, Strictly Weddings, POPSUGAR, Trends Wedding and Lifestyle Magazine and many more.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Hire a coordinator! It makes the day run extra smoothly so you don't have to worry about a thing and can simply be in the moment.

What was your most memorable wedding? Featured here, Rachel & Jake said “I do” at Maui’s historic Olowalu Plantation House. If you can imagine a dream Hawaii wedding, this was it: rainbows, breaching whales, gorgeous details, a beautiful locale, and an endless amount of love.

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KEITH KETCHUM PHOTOGRAPHY Based On: Kauai Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 13 Starting Rate: $600 Contact: 910-200-9886 www.kauaiweddings.net About: I can find humor in anything, have a degree in Studio Art, married my high school sweet heart/surf partner, and began work as staff photographer and photo editor for a surf lifestyle magazine after college.

What is special about your business?

I merged photojournalistic style into wedding work. I’ve had the opportunity to work with notable actors, bands, models and athletes. I’ve been a fulltime photographer and a member of the Professional Photographers of America since graduating. I come home buzzing with good energy after a heartfelt wedding.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? I'm honored to have been published in Wedding Wire, The Knot, Travel+Leisure, ESPN, New York Post, Rolling Stone Italy, Free People, Kauai Lifestyle Magazine and many more.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Just relax and let the day happen. Be happy and in the moment.

Happy looks best on people.

What was your most memorable wedding? I’ve loved capturing the happiness between many couples over the years. I can’t pick a favorite wedding.

Certain moments stand out. Perfect sunsets at Tunnels Beach, the lingering golden light of Poipu, the epic views of Waimea Canyon and an underwater sessions with couples. One couple was uncertain about doing a quick water session before their flight back. I convinced them and they were glad they did. The ocean was clear and the images turned out perfect. They flew home with sand between their toes and smiles on their faces.

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KEONI MICHAEL WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 4 Starting Rate: $2,400 Contact: 808-628-8277 www.keonimichael.com About: Keoni Michael is the premier wedding photography company in Hawaii based out of Honolulu. Our style revolves around wedding photojournalism with a creative influence from fine-art imagery and amazing scenery. We create pictures that are beautiful, romantic, fun and filled with emotion! While most couples struggle with what to do in front of a camera, we specialize in creating an experience that will make you feel like you were taking photos with friends!

What is special about your business?

Gorgeous pictures are important, but it’s so much more than just having you stand there and take a photo. A little direction goes a long way and we feel that's what we're the best at! We’ll guide you in a way that will make you smile, laugh, feel comfortable, and confident that everything will turn out amazing!

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Humbled to be voted one of the top 5 Wedding Photography Companies in Hawaii 2019 by NACE Hawaii, WEDAWARD International Contest Winner, SLR Lounge Summit Award Winner, also featured in various wedding blogs and magazine publications.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Hire a good wedding planner! After hundreds of weddings, this is the one investment that can have a huge impact on your wedding day and lift the stress off of the whole planning process.

What was your most memorable wedding? When it comes to weddings I remember the amazing moments that happened on that special day! Running into the ocean at the end of the reception, everyone dancing at the end of the night all sweaty and having a great time, the pouring rain ceremonies, the tears, the laughter, the speeches... oh man, those speeches!

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KI'ILANI GALLERY

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 2 Starting Rate: $2,500 Contact: 808-476-6183 www.kiilanigallery.com About: Ki'i and Glenn are a husband and wife photography team based in Oahu, Hawaii. Ki'ilani in Hawaiian means "Heavenly image" so it was only right to name our company that. We love to get to know our clients so that they are comfortable as they can be throughout the entire wedding/ planning process. Our focus is to deliver an unforgettable experience with our bride and groom through our service and photography.

What is special about your business?

Ki'ilani Gallery is able to capture the authentic and raw moments of your day.

How do we accomplish that? We are dynamic in our teamwork. We love the art of marriage and we deliver an experience like no other company.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We are honored to be featured on the Pacific Weddings website!

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? When choosing your wedding photographer, you can sum it up to 3 things: Where is the priority of photography on your vendor list? Do you love their style? And get to know them because you're essentially inviting them to your day. Also marriage is a marathon.

Marathon for love, growth, communication and trust.

What was your most memorable wedding? A promise kept for 25 years: One of our memorable weddings was right before Covid hit. Our bride and groom flew in from Canada along with their families to tie the knot. We found out that the groom's parents made a promise to each other to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary in Hawaii. It was fulfilled along with seeing their son get married. Love and laughter was definitely in the air.

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L-4-LOVE WEDDINGS

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 10 Starting Rate: $1,895 Contact: 808-391-5056 www.L-4-Love.com About: We’ve done over 200 weddings and events. We are committed to our clients and giving them a stress-free, once in a lifetime experience. Focusing on all the big AND little details helps us to be overly prepared for everything. Our clients become part of our L-4-Love ohana for life and we genuinely care for each one of them!

What is special about your business?

We specialize in teamwork, timelines, and attention to detail!

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We've planned weddings and events in Hawaii, all over California and Internationally. Our heart has always been in Hawaii, and we are happy to be focused here on Oahu. We are also listed as a preferred vendor at various venues and take pride in building our relationships with our clients and vendors.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Set deadlines and stick to them. Planning and checking things off your list help alleviate unnecessary stress and allow you to be fully present.

What was your most memorable wedding? In 2014, 2 hurricanes were headed our way. With over a year of planning, this wedding had a ton of details.

Feeling devastated when moving into the barn, but with the help of some AMAZING vendors, we redid the entire layout and had the most amazing, dreamy “barnival” wedding. This wedding tested our strength and resilience, but the outcome was worth every grey hair. Hearing the bride say “this was more beautiful than I could have ever imagined” made our hearts sing. This is “why we do what we do”.

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LA FLOR BY VANESSA OLSEN Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 4 Starting Rate: $1,500 Contact: 808-364-1395 www.laflorevents.com About: La Flor Events is a special event focused floral and coordination company that has grown through creativity and craftsmanship. Our love for floral design, event coordination, and passionate attention to detail are embodied in each and every creation.

What is special about your business?

Each event is customized to the clients style and design needs. We love to source local flowers and bring the accents of our natural surroundings into each experience.

Using unique and unthought of foliages, dry elements & flowers to embody expressive pieces!

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Vogue Weddings & Inspired

by This.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Go by your own rules, love every moment, it goes by quickly! Don’t be afraid to be bold and try something new!

What was your most memorable wedding? Cat & Benji’s wedding in 2018 at Waimea Valley was definitely one for the books. The entire day was filled with love, excitement, fun & wild guests! We styled their day, coordinated our booties off & got our flowers on. The florals were a combination of tropical and desert plants that we DYI’d with our bride. Cherry on top of a beautiful wedding was when their wedding band started and Rob Trujillo, the base player from Metallica, John Theodore, the drummer from Queens of the Stoneage and Whitfield Crane, the lead singer from Ugly Kid Joe came on stage.

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LAHAINA LOFT

Based On: Maui Islands Servicing: Maui Years In Business: 2.5 Starting Rate: $2,500 Contact: 808-868-0540 www.lahainaloft.com About: Lahaina Loft is Maui’s only ocean front event space located on historic FrontStreet Lahaina. The open airy loft space has incredible views of Lahaina Harbor and the island of Lanai. The white pallet combined with the wood flooring and textured walls make for a dramatic back drop to your celebration. We offer professional on-site coordination as well as work with professional event teams from the islands and beyond.

What is special about your business?

Lahaina Loft is happy to share our list of talented Maui vendors we work with, however you are not required to use them. Catering teams may use our commercial kitchen on site. Without having a liquor license, you may bring in your own alcoholic beverages and hire one of our craft beverage teams to service the beverages.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Creating Lahaina Loft with the support of amazing partners that I call “Fairy God Fathers” in one of my most cherished accomplishments. When I stand in Lahaina Loft and see weddings and celebrations full of love and aloha, there is no better feeling.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Be in the moment together and be present! Take a minute together whether right after the ceremony, before you make your entrance and soak it all in. It is about the two of you and the moment.

What was your most memorable wedding? The ones that end in happily ever after of course! How can I pick just one?!

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MAGNOLIA WHITE HAWAII Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 4 Starting Rate: $3,000 Contact: 808-800-3088 www.magnoliawhite-hawaii.com About: Magnolia White Couture Bridal Salon is the dress destination for the islands stylish, fashion forward brides, featuring gowns from top designers including Galia Lahav, Rue De Seine Bridal, Leanne Marshall, and Ines Di Santo. Magnolia White Hawaii has the perfect gown for every bride.

What is special about your business? As the States first and only couture bridal salon, Magnolia White has a highly curated collection of dresses, selected especially for the Hawaii bride. From boho-chic looks to ultra glam gowns, our bridal stylists help brides find the perfect look for their big day.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We recently launched MW at Home, a virtual appointment and fitting experience for our Hawaii brides. This experience allows us to serve brides who may be more comfortable shopping from home while also serving clients on the neighbor islands. Additionally, we take a hands on approach to the alterations process. When you become a Magnolia White bride we are by your side from your first appointment to your final fitting.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Have fun and keep an open mind to styles you may not think suit you. Venture outside of your comfort zone and you may be surprised with what gowns you fall in love with!

What was your most memorable wedding? We had a bride come in that wanted a clean, sophisticated gown for her rooftop wedding. Her list of no’s included NO heavy beading and NO strapless gowns. After trying on every gown in the shop she took a chance on a bead encrusted, strapless mermaid gown and fell in love! The unexpected ended up being the gown of her dreams!

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MARRY YOU IN HAWAII

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 3 Starting Rate: $250 Contact: 808-379-3410 www.marryyouinhawaii.com About: Marry You in Hawaii is a team of the best curated wedding officiants.

What is special about your business?

While no couple is the same, we realize that there is no one officiant for every couple. We have a team of officiants that offer a different range of styles. It’s also nice that we get to continue to grow with our couples, through home and baby blessings.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Our website was designed for the modern couple. We have all of the officiant’s bios and information as well as calendar availability so you can get to know them as well as their availability for your day. If you’d like, you can lock them in and book immediately, or, if you prefer, set up a call to see if they are the perfect fit for you in advance.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Writing your own vows is the best way to personalize your wedding as there will not be another couple who will have the exact same vows as you. If you do go with traditional vows, do not overthink it. They are traditional and timeless for a reason.

What was your most memorable wedding? We will do family members, and also baby and house blessings but it’s truly special when you get to marry a couple twice! Kahu Brutus did an elopement for a couple one year, and then they came back with their family the next year for a big celebration. They were ahead of their time!

Elements were added to their ceremony and they were able to tweak it the second time which was so amazing!

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MAUNA KEA RESORT

Based On: Island of Hawaii Islands Servicing: Island of Hawaii Years In Business: 55 Starting Rate: $7,500 Contact: 808-882-5463 www.maunakeabeachhotel.com About: Mauna Kea Resort’s two hotels, The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort and Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, present idyllic settings with the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration. Laid-back days, crimson sunsets and personalized service are hallmarks of the resort. Beach activities are complemented by an array of resort dining, two championship golf courses, cultural immersion opportunities and more. Discover how easily dreams become melded with magic at Mauna Kea Resort.

What is special about your business?

Mauna Kea Resort offers exquisite venues for intimate gatherings that are ultrapersonal and distinctive to each couple.

Trusted customer relationships are forged during the wedding planning process and often become long lasting.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Mauna Kea Resort has been a destination of choice for generations of romantic weddings. Timelessly magical Mauna Kea Beach Hotel was Hawaii Island’s first resort and inducted as a member of Historic Hotels of America in 2016. Hapuna Beach, fronting The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort, was named among “Dr. Beach’s” top-10 beaches in the U.S in 2020.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? This is your day to enjoy and celebrate. Communicate your vision with your resort wedding planner, go with your heart, and then relax and let your dreams unfold.

What was your most memorable wedding? What stands out the most are little moments that truly take people’s breath away, like once when a groom surprised his bride and their guests with a helicopter drop of white orchids. It was magical and the look on the bride’s face said it all.

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MEEWMEEW STUDIOS

Based On: Maui Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 9 Starting Rate: $900 Contact: 808-205-8696 www.meewmeew.com About: “Capture the moments; tell the story” – this is what we believe and what we do. We are proud to be a boutique photography studio that is known for consistently creating emotional, creative and artful images. Devoted to quality work and committed to every couple, we hand-edit each image in house and take on only a select number of weddings each year. Our goal is to produce photographs with meaning, images that capture you at your best.

What is special about your business? With our dedication, flexibility and creativity, you will find that your vision and desires for your wedding day memories surely come to fruition with MeewMeew Studios..

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We are honored and humbled to be a part of The Knot Best of Weddings Hall of Fame and ten times winner of Wedding Wire’s Couples Choice Awards with close to two hundred all 5-star reviews. We’ve also won Bridal Guide’s Best Wedding Photos award and been published on many prestigious magazines such as The Knot, Destination I Do, Hawaii Wedding Style, South Asian Bride just to name a few.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Set priorities for your investment and focus on things that would last after the wedding. From a survey we did with past clients, the top 3 priorities they chose if they could do their wedding again are: photography, planner/designer, and florist.

What was your most memorable wedding? Having photographed hundreds of weddings, we still have wet eyes seeing the bride walk down the aisle, every single time! Feeling the joy and happiness of each couple is what makes us so passionate about what we do and keeps us to go above and beyond to tell their beautiful stories.

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MELIA LUCIDA PHOTOGRAPHER

Based On: Maui Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 17 Starting Rate: 1,800 Contact: 808-495-1800 www.melialucida.com About: I began photographing weddings while studying for my Bachelor of Fine Arts and never looked back. It's been a dream to work with interesting people from all over the world during one of their most memorable times.

What is special about your business?

My work is a balance of documentary, reportage and an artistic editorial style carefully finished to outlast photographic trends. Nearing the end of my second decade of wedding photography I feel more confident than ever in the experience, style, editing, and overall quality of service that I offer my clients.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? I have been fortunate to be published in Vogue Weddings, Martha Stewart, Brides magazine, Wedluxe and other incredible publications, thanks to my couples' great style and taste and the top notch work of their vendors.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? The scenery is so diverse on each island; schedule an alternate-day portrait session with your photographer to go somewhere inspiring and different from your venue and enjoy the landscape and get some more beautiful photos in a relaxed way.

What was your most memorable wedding? Perhaps my first wedding in Hawai'i. It was the morning I arrived that I decided I would be back to stay.

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MIKE PHAM PHOTOGRAPHY

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 12 Starting Rate: $2,000 Contact: 808-306-8379 www.mikephamphotography.com About: Mike Pham Photography has been in the wedding photography industry since 2008 working with couples in capturing beautiful milestones in their lives. Our team of experienced photographers is energetic, fun, friendly, attentive and professional.

What is special about your business?

We love working with couples and have a passion for telling a story through the lens of a camera. We strive to create a fun and comfortable experience so that our couples know they can entrust us to tell their love story. Our goal is to create timeless eye-catching photos that are unique to each couple's love story that they can enjoy looking back upon and share with future generations.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Featured on Fred & Kate Events, A Perfect Day Hawaii, Esselle Weddings and Events, L4Love Weddings and The Hyatt Regency.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Remember to save some photo time for yourselves with your photographer on the wedding day. A sunset session is a great time to have a relaxed intimate moment together before returning to celebrate with your guests.

What was your most memorable wedding? Our most memorable wedding is Jessie and Arthur who had their wedding at Kualoa Ranch. The day was amazing and all their loved ones came to celebrate with them. Once the ceremony was over we were met with rain and a soaked lawn that resulted in a slippery and muddy reception.

The couple and their guests didn’t let the rain stop them from celebrating. Every single guest partied barefoot in the mud.

A dance floor full of muddy feet turned out to be one of the funniest and most memorable.

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MODERN ELOPEMENT

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 6 Starting Rate: $7,000 Contact: 808-354-0307 www.modernelopement.com About: A Modern Elopement is an allinclusive intimate wedding ceremony experience that is simple, beautiful and stress-free. Our curated collection is perfectly assembled as a complete ceremony experience, from altar decor and personal flowers, to exclusive location access and the top photographers. We collaborate with the top-tier vendors and premier locations on all islands so every detail of your Modern Elopement is thoughtfully planned and executed so that you get to keep it simple, while we make it beautiful!

What is special about your business? We are the Elopement Experts who have been planning and specializing in small weddings with 30 guests or less, since 2015! We have recently expanded our brand to include a blog and a shop.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We have been nationally and locally featured as the “Elopement Experts� in Destination I Do Magazine, on KHON 2 TV and countless wedding blogs like Style Me Pretty, Junebug Weddings, Carats & Cake, Equally Wed, Bridal Musings and Wedding Chicks for our gorgeous elopement weddings.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Consider going small!

You stretch your budget farther, can treat your guests to more and have a less stressful time planning.

What was your most memorable wedding? The elopement wedding we had on Kauai when the guests flew to the ceremony site by helicopter, had their ceremony on the beach and dinner at sunset at a beachfront restaurant.

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NV MAUI MEDIA

Based On: Maui Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 8 Starting Rate: $2,000 Contact: 808-446-1659 www.nvmauimedia.com About: My photography style focuses on capturing the essence of each couple’s unique dynamic. Connecting with my clients is my top priority and I strive to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera for the best photos. I am a perfectionist to the core and am committed to delivering the highest quality work.

What is special about your business?

Being in front of the camera should be a fun and natural experience. You should never feel awkward or uncomfortable during your session. I always make it a priority to connect with you before we begin shooting, whether your event is an all day wedding or portraits on the beach. Every couple is different, so no two sessions look the same.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Featured on Borrowed + Blue, Martha Stewart Weddings, Style Me Pretty, The Knot, Best of the Knot 2019, Anthony + Alex LaPaglia’s wedding featured in Vogue’s Wedding Print Edition in 2018, Arie + Lauren Luyendyk’s wedding featured in US Weekly, People Magazine, Good Morning America, Popsugar.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? When hiring a wedding photographer, take the time to talk with the photographer face-to-face or on the phone to make sure you connect with them. Your photographer will be with you for some very intimate moments on your wedding day and you want to feel comfortable and supported throughout!

What was your most memorable wedding? The most memorable weddings for me are always the ones where the couple has prioritized time for portraits and trusts me to be creative and capture their love in a unique way.

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OAHU WEDDING ASSOCIATION Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 15 Starting Rate: $200 Contact: 808-557-5997 www.oahuweddingassociation.com About: The Oahu Wedding Association is a trade organization for wedding businesses based on Oahu. Established in 2005, our diverse membership works together and promotes each other’s businesses while ensuring professionalism and ethical business practices. Our goal has been to be recognized as the voice of the wedding industry on Oahu, and as the source of current information for wedding-related businesses on Oahu by creating a unified voice for the industry.

What is special about your business? Our membership is unified through networking and educational opportunities we provide.

As a result of our efforts the wedding businesses can stay connected to changes in the industry and keep abreast of any Governmental issues that might affect us.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We’re proud to give back to our community such as Hawaii Foodbank and Children’s Miracle Network. The past two years we’ve hosted an event called ‘Focus on Families’ where we set up professional photo sessions. Proceeds are donated to Kapiolani Children’s Hospital in support of the Children’s Miracle Network.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? We encourage wedding couples to use sources like Oahu Wedding Association to find services that will best work for you. Ask questions, as these businesses bring years of experience to the table and are masters at their craft.

What was your most memorable wedding? Our most memorable weddings are the ones where our members collaborate together. Being part of a professional organization like OWA means that everyone operates at the highest standard and when we work together, the service and experience is always impeccable.

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PARADISE COVE LUAU

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 44 Starting Rate: $1,500 Contact: 808-842-7911 www.paradisecove.com About: Paradise Cove is located at Ko’Olina Resort, on a secluded 12 acre beachfront resort. The unrivaled serenity of our location framed by pristine white sand beaches and the vast blue Pacific, provide the perfect backdrop for a truly enchanting and memorable event. Begin your Happily Ever After in Paradise!

What is special about your business?

What is so special about our business is that we have one of the most beautiful locations on the Island of Oahu for a wedding ceremony.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We have been nominated the Best Wedding Venue in several websites and magazines throughout the years.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? One of the best tips that you can give a wedding couple is when deciding on a venue for your outdoor wedding, choose a location that is best suited for your “ideal” wedding and is your ‘dream’ wedding. Our venue is a special place, with history of Hawaiian Royalty and a wedding planner is truly a necessity to assist you in making this your most memorable event of a lifetime.

What was your most memorable wedding? One of our most memorable weddings was when “KONISHIKI” got married at our venue and it was truly a remarkable day! We’ve had many celebrities, both local and from the Mainland get married at our venue.

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PARADISE COVE CRYSTAL CHAPEL Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 4 Starting Rate: $3,5500 Contact: 808-829-1423 www.thebesthawaiiwedding.com About: Out on the west side of Oahu and away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki sits the Paradise Cove Crystal Chapel. The Paradise Cove Crystal Chapel is perched on Ko ‘Olina’s stunning oceanfront property and is just seconds away from the water.

This chapel was designed for brides that want a fairytale princess experience, with a touch of island class and romance.

This private wedding estate truly combines island style and tradition with upscale elegance, class and fashion. Unlike any other chapel on Oahu, the Paradise Cove Crystal Chapel is the perfect backdrop for an elegant, enchanting, island ceremony experience.

What is special about your business?

With over 30 years of experience in the wedding industry, we have experience in all areas to ensure your special day is memorable.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We have been featured numerous times in Hawaii Wedding Style Magazine and The Knot.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Enjoy your wedding day and leave the details to the experts.

What was your most memorable wedding? Since all of our clients are treated like family, all of our weddings are memorable in our eyes.

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A PERFECT DAY

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 18 Starting Rate: $500 Contact: 808-497-3339 www.aperfectdayhawaii.com About: A Perfect Day, LLC was created with the vision of being able to offer every bride peace of mind through planning and organization. Our mission is to pass the knowledge and know-how that we’ve acquired over years of coordination & close relationships with vendors to all of our clients. We strongly believe in precision planning, and that there is no such thing as too much information. We also believe that you need to have fun and enjoy what you do.

Planning & Coordination is our PASSION..

What is special about your business? We have unlimited communication with all of our clients from the moment they hire us and we have always worked each wedding as a team!

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? 2019 Ekahi Awards Wedding Planner of the Year & 2019 Ekahi Awards Company of the Year.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Never be afraid to ask questions and only hire vendors who you love communicating with and being around.

What was your most memorable wedding? After doing weddings for 18 years, there have been so many beautiful weddings and amazing couples that we don't have a "most memorable" wedding.

We truly find each wedding has something that makes it memorable. Whether it is the experiences we get to be a part of, the problems we were able to fix, or the people we get to meet, they truly make each wedding memorable!

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A PERFECT PARADISE WEDDING Based On: Maui Islands Servicing: Maui Years In Business: 15 Starting Rate: $350 Contact: 800-969-6281 www.aperfectparadisewedding.com About: Whether an intimate ceremony for two or an elegant event for 200, we would love to assist you in creating the Perfect Day! We are happy to discuss your event in detail and then create a custom wedding package.

What is special about your business?

Wedding planning is fun, but the best part is being on site at each of our events to help everything come together & run smoothly, which is why we only book 1 wedding a day!

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Weddings published in Pacific Weddings.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? An important tip that I always share with my clients is to create a photo shot list! Your so caught up in the moment of your big day and you don’t want to forget a “must have” shot!

What was your most memorable wedding? The most memorable wedding was my “hurricane Lane” couple! The morning of the wedding, the governor shut all golf courses which eliminated our original ceremony site, the Molokini Lookout AND our back up plan of the arboretum. The reception was scheduled for Mulligan’s, they advised me that I could try and get a hold of the Owner of the Wailea Healing center located right next door for the ceremony. I happened to have coordinated the owners wedding over 12 years ago and contacted her on FB, she responded and met me within the hour to view the site. The venue was perfect for our large group and even offered a partial ocean view! We quickly advised all of the vendors of the change of venue. The day turned out beautifully, the couple couldn’t have been happier!

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PINKY PHOTOGRAPHY

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 12 Starting Rate: $1,600 Contact: 808-954-2396 www.pinkyphotography.com About: I’ve been doing photography for 12 years now from the lovely island of Oahu, Hawaii. It started out as a hobby back in college and has developed into what it is today. I absolutely LOVE capturing memories with any piece of technology at my disposal. Film camera, phone, GoPro, Polaroid…. It’s freezing that moment in time is why I love what I do. I love capturing LOVE, capturing the moments filled with emotion and beauty. I help brides feel beautiful, happy, comfy …. to know you’re special. My priority is to provide you with memories that capture your happiness, fall in love all over again, and to cherish it forever.

What is special about your business?

We are flexible and can create custom packages for clients specific needs.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Have been featured in Oprah Magazine, Bridebox, Tokidoki, Kualoa Ranch, and more.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Don’t stress, Let it go and be happy! If you’re stressed or anxious, odds are it will show in the photos. So let it go, if you need I can be your therapist and listen, or run it off with you and get back to photos when you’re relaxed.

What was your most memorable wedding? It rained at a destination wedding, muddy spots around and the couple was a little upset in the beginning.

It cleared up during the ceremony and it was gorgeous! It started to rain during the reception again and the couple just let go and danced in the rain. It was beautiful!

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PLATINUM WEDDINGS & EVENTS Based On: Maui Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 8 Starting Rate: $2,995 Contact: 808-283-6513 www.platinumweddingsmaui.com About: Platinum Weddings & Events is a full service wedding planning firm located in Maui, Hawaii. Specifically designed to exceed all of your expectations for your upcoming Wedding, it is our goal to ensure that your Big Day runs smoothly and flawlessly, surrounded by laughter and love. We pride ourselves on our enthusiasm and passion for weddings and thrive on creating a personalized event tailored to each couple.

What is special about your business?

We deeply value authenticity and strive to maintain a "real" relationship with each couple. We consider the Wedding Planning Process to be deeply personal. We highly value the planner-couple relationship being the right fit from the start. Our intention is to partner with our couples to bring their vision to life in a meaningful and authentic way!

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Martha Stewart Weddings, The Knot, Junebug Weddings Carats & Cake, Style Me Pretty, Wedding Chicks, Ruffled, Destination I Do, The White Wren, Bajan Weddings, Lover.ly, and Bridal Musings.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? You should be partnered with someone that makes you feel at ease and valued. This kick-starts your Planning Process in the best possible direction and ensures that you will both have a fun and flawless Wedding Day, and a wonderful planning experience.

What was your most memorable wedding? Two months before a darling couple's Wedding, we learned that their venue would be under construction during their Wedding. Platinum Weddings & Events and partners were able to upgrade their venue at a matched price-point. Their Wedding Day was absolutely stunning and everything fell into place perfectly.

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BY KERI COOPER Based On: Kauai Islands Servicing: Kauai, Oahu, Maui Years In Business: 20 Starting Rate: $1,200 Contact: 808-652-4207 www.kericooper.com About: I'm Keri, a gung-ho photographer with a passion for people and connection.

My clients like me because I am a heartcentered photographer with the expertise and creativity to provide a beautiful experience along with stunning photos.

When I am not out photographing weddings or family portraits around Kauai, you can find me with my hubby hiking forest trails, running after our 3 boys at the skatepark, or surfing at our favorite beaches.

We love our family adventures out in nature, followed by snuggles and movies on the couch. Star Wars and Mexican food for the win!

I’m a laugh out loud, live big, and love hard kind of woman. I show up excited about your photos and I really care about your experience.

What is special about your business? I make sure my clients know that they are important to me. Their memories, and their story and experience matter to me, big time.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Published in: Hawaii Wedding Style, TheKnot, WeddingWire, PopSugar, & Destination Wedding Details. Member of: Fearless Photographer, Bespoke Elope Photographer, Wandering Weddings Photographer What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Embrace the day as it comes and focus on each other.

What was your most memorable wedding? A last-minute elopement where nothing went as planned. The location had to be changed and there was a huge rainstorm. They remained easy-going and determined to exchange vows. They rocked the wet kisses and played in the rain. It was incredibly inspiring and romantic.

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QUEEN KAPIOLANI HOTEL Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 4 Starting Rate: $2,300 Contact: 808-829-1423 www.thebesthawaiiwedding.com About: The Queen Kapi’olani Hotel is surrounded by a legacy of inspiration. From the Queen herself to a Golden Age of history, imagination, taste and fun living for all those who have experienced Waikiki at her finest throughout the years. Celebrate the most important day of your life in beautiful Waikiki at the foot of beautiful Diamond Head.

What is special about your business?

With over 30 years of experience in the wedding industry, we have experience in all areas to ensure your special day is memorable.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We have been featured numerous times in Hawaii Wedding Style Magazine and The Knot.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Enjoy your wedding day and leave the details to the experts.

What was your most memorable wedding? Since all of our clients are treated like family, all of our weddings are memorable in our eyes.

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RAE MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHY Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 10 Starting Rate: $3,500 Contact: 808-852-9440 www.raemarshall.com About: My name is Rae, and my job is to make sure that your wedding day is captured in the way that it felt when it was happening. It's beautiful, emotional, lots of fun, and it's about you and the people that came from all over to celebrate with you. I have been lucky enough to capture hundreds of wedding days, each one with their own heart.

What is special about your business?

I've got you, it's your time to enjoy. I'll be guiding you with easy cues on making a photo the best it can be. I can move a wedding day timeline along if those groomsmen are dragging, and I'll be fluffing your dress to get all that drama.

I'm reliable, I'm hyped on coffee, and I have 4 copies of your images. I take your day incredibly seriously, while making it easy because it's going to be a blast.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? I'm thankful to have been chosen as one of Hawaii Magazine's best wedding photographers, and have been featured on The Knot, Huffington Post, Buzzfeed, Pacific Weddings, Wedding Chicks, Equally Wed, and won "First Place" in the worldwide Shoot & Share contest.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Hire experienced vendors and delegate, you don't need to be doing a bunch of work on your day!

What was your most memorable wedding? A wedding in Los Angeles with a couple who met in their teens and almost dated, then found each other again almost 30 years later!

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RANDI KRECKMAN PHOTOGRAPHY Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 3 Starting Rate: $1,500 Contact: 760-936-6223 www.randikreckman.com About: I’m Randi, an elopement photographer crafting honest adventures that are anything but common. I help couples plan + capture their dream elopement here on the islands! I’m for creating space for couples to be themselves, capturing the subtle ways they express their love. Let’s tell your story!

What is special about your business? I am not just a photographer, I am also an elopement guide! I come alongside couples to plan a day that is truly meaningful and built around what they want most.

This might be anything from creating an elopement timeline to helping them find the perfect spot to say their vows, it’s my passion to create an amazing day for them.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? I was awarded Rangefinder Magazine’s 30 Rising Stars of Wedding Photography in 2019 which was such an honor! I have also been published in Junebug Weddings, White Magazine, Aisle Society, and Lookslikefilm.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Plan a day that you love.

Don’t worry about what the industry says you need or what others try to tell you, focus on your love and do something that really excites both of you. Make it your best day ever!

What was your most memorable wedding? Recently, I hiked up into the clouds with one of my couples eloping on Maui. We had the best time adventuring and chatting about everything like old friends. Their sunset vows made such an impact on my heart. I loved being able to provide this experience for them and hear how much the day and the photos meant to them. Those fond memories will always be with me.

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SARAH JUAL PHOTO

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 6 Starting Rate: $2,000 Contact: 808-291-0739 www.sarahjualphoto.com About: Hey, what’s up, hello! I’m Sarah, a wedding photographer! I’m exuberant, joyful, and determined. With these powers combined, I’m able to approach your wedding with excitement, joy, and inspiration.

Also I’ve been a bride! Now I use my experience as a vendor and a bride combined with empathy and joy to be a resource for you.

What is special about your business?

Approaching your wedding day, I want you to feel adored, celebrated, and supported from the moment of booking. This is very much reflected in my photography style: bright, colorful, and naturally you! Whether its holding in tears during your vows, giggling during your portraits or laughing so hard at your friend's speech, you'll receive photo that take you back there!

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? I'm so excited to be on the Knot's Best of Weddings (2019 & 2020), and featured on Wedding Chicks, Zola, and Hawaii Wedding Style!

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? One of the best tips to being present on your wedding day is hiring a coordinator! They take away the logistical distractions that will allow you to be present and fully experiencing the day. The day goes by so quickly, so hire a coordinator, enjoy your day, and look back on it with happiness!

What was your most memorable wedding? One of the most memorable moments I've seen at a wedding was one where the groom made a pineapple upside-down cake for their wedding cake!

It was his late grandma's recipe, and was their way to honor her at their wedding. It was one of the sweetest things I've ever seen, pun intended!

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SIMPLE MAUI WEDDING Based On: Maui Islands Servicing: Maui Years In Business: 13 Starting Rate: $2,550 Contact: 808-873-0789 www.simplemauiwedding.net About: Founded on creating a stress-free wedding planning experience, Simple Maui Wedding creates stunning Maui wedding packages with outstanding quality. This highly-reviewed wedding company has a team of talented staff with over 2000 weddings of planning experience. Relax, indulge, and let Simple Maui Wedding create you the ultimate boutique wedding experience in Maui.

What is special about your business?

Simple Maui Wedding’s highly refined wedding planning process and a 24hr return email policy, keep clients fully informed during the entire wedding experience! Simple Maui Wedding specializes in beach and venue weddings without the hassle of overly complicated affairs.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We were honored to receive The Knot’s 2020 “Best of Weddings” and 1st place in Hawaii Magazine’s 2019 “Best of Hawaii.” We’ve been extensively published in TheKnot.com, Bridal Guide, Strictly Weddings, POPSUGAR, Marriage. com, Trends Wedding and Lifestyle Magazine, Gay Weddings and Marriage Magazine, and many more.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Have an unplugged ceremony and don't worry about the weather... just let it be the way it's meant to be.

What was your most memorable wedding? In 2019, Emily & Alex eloped on the shore of Ironwoods and lived it to the fullest: dancing, crying, and enjoying the sunset together. The morning of the ceremony, Alex even went skydiving in Hana to kill time!

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SIMPLE OAHU WEDDING

Based On: Maui Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 10 Starting Rate: $2,675 Contact: 808-439-6700 www.simpleoahuwedding.com About: Simple Oahu Wedding offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu by coordinating simple yet elegant Oahu wedding packages that allow you to just breathe and enjoy Hawaii. Our hand-selected beach locations will leave your wedding guests captivated by Oahu’s natural beauty. Looking for a more private ceremony? Our Oahu wedding venues can provide that uninterrupted personal wedding experience for just your group. Let our staff of professional wedding coordinators craft you the perfect Oahu wedding experience.

What is special about your business? At Simple Oahu Wedding, we pride ourselves on being the most stress-free wedding planning company in Oahu while providing unparalleled quality. With a highly refined wedding planning process and a 24hr return email policy, we make sure our clients are fully informed during the entire wedding experience.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We’ve graced the pages of Trends Wedding and Lifestyle Magazine, Destination Wedding Details, Marriage. com, and many more.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Be in the moment. You only get this one time, so enjoy every minute of it, and don't worry about the little stuff. Also, plan a sunset wedding at either Papailoa or Yokohama for the best scenic & sunset photos. It's worth the drive and completely mind-blowing!

What was your most memorable wedding? There are so many, but one that really stands out is Brittany & Timothy (The top photo). They said “I do” on the shores of Papailoa, and everything from their attire to the scenery was stunning – it looked like they’d just stepped out of a painting.

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SPECTRUM ENTERTAINMENT

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 6 Starting Rate: $2,450 Contact: 808-227-2519 www.spectrumentertainmenthi.com About: At Spectrum Entertainment, we make your wedding day all about you. We take the time throughout the process to understand what your goals and visions are, the type of music you like, and we utilize our experience to make sure that your wedding is the best celebration of your life.

It’s important at a wedding to have a DJ/ Emcee that can cater the music and entertainment to a variety of audiences, and even different tastes in music within friends or different generations at the wedding.

What is special about your business? If you ask others in the industry, besides our energetic DJ/Emcee services, we are known for our “add-on” services. We can provide massive lighting arrays, dynamic lightshows, laser projections, cold spark fountains, nimbus cloud, confetti, and our LED wall which is the biggest game changer yet! Our LED Wall displays vivid custom graphics and visuals ranging from the bride and grooms name, your wedding hashtag, any videos and slideshows you may be showing, and then once the dance floor opens– it takes the party to a whole new level!

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Best of Weddings” 2018-2019.

“Couples Choice Awards” 2017 – 2020.

Featured in Borrowed & Blue Weddings.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Hire vendors that you trust, and make sure they understand your vision so they can do their job and you can enjoy your wedding day!

What was your most memorable wedding? My cousin’s wedding. It was special to me not only because it was my cousin, but he also gave us the green light to go “all out” on all of our services so the atmosphere was unforgettable!

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STIR BEVERAGE

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 8 Starting Rate: $1,000 Contact: 808-551-0887 www.stirbeverage.com About: Stir Beverage is a full service cocktail catering company that specializes in an elevated bar & cocktail experience.

What is special about your business? Stir’s unwavering commitment to our brides & grooms, our fleet of gorgeous bar fronts, our unique and delicious craft cocktails, our attention to even the smallest details and our impeccable standards of service and excellence.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? In the last 8 years Stir has grown into the premiere beverage catering group in Hawaii. We have several key partnerships with coordinators and wedding venues state wide, have been noted in multiple wedding publications and is recognized as one of the top beverage caterers in Hawaii.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Ask lots of questions!

Know all that your vendors service includes.

What was your most memorable wedding? In 2018 the Stir team was actually flown out to NY where we provide bar service on a rooftop terrace for a bride and groom and their 175 guest! It was so crazy, unique and gorgeous! The lights of the city were spread out below and it was really an amazing wedding and an amazing time for the Stir team!

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STUDIO 3511 PHOTOGRAPHY

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 20 Starting Rate: $520 Contact: 808-779-7855 www.studio3511.com About: Welcome to studio 3511 photography! Love + laughter + joy. I love taking artsy and fun wedding photos for amazingly cool couples like you! I'm here to help you create memories and capture that grand feeling of love. The beautiful little details and the grand sweeping gestures.

Wedding and family photographer- innovative, joyful and fun. I can't wait to take photos with you!

What is special about your business?

I believe in happy endings and small moments that tell your story. Photographs that lift your spirit and have your soul soaring when you need it the most.

Walking you through the awkwardness and doubt of taking pictures.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? I was honored to be selected as one of Travel + Leisure's Top Photographers for 2017. But my greatest accomplishment is having 2 amazing kids who are kind, funny, smart- and like to take pictures like their Mom! I love taking photos now more than ever before.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Take it slowly and savor every moment up until your wedding dayand beyond! Make it all mean something.

Celebrate the things that go wrong and work together to solve them as a teamand laugh at it at your 20th wedding anniversary!

What was your most memorable wedding? My sister let me capture her wedding- and the best part was that they used a samurai sword to cut the cake!

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SUNSET RANCH

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 60 Starting Rate: $4,200 Contact: 808-638-8333 www.sunsetranchhawaii.com About: Nestled atop Waimea Valley on the North Shore of Oahu, Sunset Ranch invites you to enjoy practically unseen views of the island’s spectacular northwestern coast and the bright blues of the Pacific Ocean.

Visitors and locals alike are rendered speechless at the sense of place, space and joy they experience at Sunset Ranch.

The ranch house, chapel, guest suites, and sweeping veranda, blend seamlessly into rolling green lawns, with six distinct venues offering opportunity to create events as unique as its celebrants.

What is special about your business? Now forever protected, our mission at Sunset Ranch is to establish the property as a model to advance land conservation and sustainability in Hawaii. We have advanced these efforts by successfully establishing an economically viable business that includes tours and events, horsemanship programs, farming, botanical gardens and forest restoration.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Couples Choice 2020 WeddingWire. Our outdoor venues range from tropical gardens with towering monstera wrapped eucalyptus, to rolling manicured lawns with breathtaking ocean and mountain views. Our exclusive indoor venue radiates rustic elegance with vaulted ceilings, embellished with opulent crystal chandeliers.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Make your celebration a reflection of your combined styles and passions. A wedding is the first of many opportunities you’ll have as a couple, to practice the true art of “give and take”.

What was your most memorable wedding? ALL weddings hosted at Sunset Ranch are equally memorable and amazing!

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TANIOKA'S

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 42 Starting Rate: $37.95 Contact: 808-671-3779 www.taniokas.com About: We are a family style business and we believe in treating our employees right and serving quality foods while offering the best experience for our customers whether it is at our storefront or out on the road at catering events.

What is special about your business? We have excellent customer relations, fresh quality food, friendly and professional banquet staff, a lot of flexibility within our menu.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Tanioka's has been honored with many awards including the prestigious US Small Business Award, Family Business of the Year [University of Hawaii Business Center], Pride in Waipahu, Ilima Award, numerous Best of the Best awards, and Hawaii's Best. In 2016, Tanioka's was voted 1st place for Hawaii's Best Caterer and People's Choice for Hawaii's Best Poke.

2016 was a banner year for Tanioka's, earning awards including Retail Business of the Year (Oahu) [Hawaii Restaurant Association], Ho'okela Award Retailer of the Year (Oahu) [Retail Merchants of Hawaii], and Yelp's Nationwide Top 100 List.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Cater your food from Tanioka's! Also, look at each other daily while planning your wedding so you can remember why you are doing this and know that your wedding day is one of the best days of your life.

What was your most memorable wedding? They are all so memorable in their own special ways and it would be unfair to put one over the rest. We love catering weddings and it makes our job that much better knowing that we helped a couple celebrate their special day!

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TIKI'S GRILL & BAR

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 18 Starting Rate: $975 Contact: 808-923-8454 www.tikisgrill.com About: Overlooking iconic Waikiki Beach, Tiki's Grill & Bar is a popular place to celebrate with close family & friends in a unique open air setting with gorgeous ocean views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere distinctly of the islands. The ohana driven team provides premiere planning and service experiences from the dedicated, locally owned and operated restaurant, accompanied by award winning Executive Chef creations, a lively bar program, and entertainment nightly.

What is special about your business? With our guided menu and drink options, along with vendor partners for custom desserts and decor, we can be almost entirely inclusive for a stress free experience allowing couples to focus on their personal details. We are located in the Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel on the Diamond Head side of Waikiki, so guests have the convenience to stay and play nearby, and we also take care of free valet parking on site.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We are honored to have received Hale ‘Aina awards as a restaurant, as well as national recognition for overall experience, service, and cuisine. We are proud to be a local and visitor favorite year-round, with our events team winning The Knot's Best of Weddings for the sixth year in a row.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Have fun, honor the things that mean the most to you, and soak in all the joy this time brings being together, it will definitely be a time to remember!

What was your most memorable wedding? There are way too many to count! Each wedding and couple we work with have proven to be unique in their own ways, and we always find ourselves lucky that we get to help them celebrate in the best ways we know how.

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TROPICAL MOON EVENTS Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 9 Starting Rate: $1,400 Contact: 808-464-6696 www.tropicalmoonevents.com About: Tropical Moon Events is a boutique wedding planning and design shoppe, specializing in events at Oahu’s beautiful estate venues since 2011. From full planning and design to day-of coordination, our team of professional coordinators are fashioned to bring together all elements to make your Big Day an unforgettable soiree!

What is special about your business? Our team is uniquely experienced in working with the elements to produce amazing outdoor weddings. With years of executing flawless events through the capricious elements, we are geared to flow with the multitude of scenarios that each outdoor event brings. This allows us to work in the most gorgeous natural backdrops in Hawaii.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We were awarded Wedding Wire’s Couples Choice three years in a row: 2018, 2019, 2020! We also offer Craft Cocktails and Professional Waitstaff services to perfectly compliment weddings at Hawaii’s estate venues through our sister company Star Bar Hawaii.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Be a guest at your wedding! Relinquish the details to your planner and be in the moment. Don’t sweat the small stuff, stay positive, and most importantly, have fun!

What was your most memorable wedding? Recently one of our couples played a host of games with their large wedding party, having them eat donuts off a string blindfolded, and find the garter in a sea of balloons on the dance floor. It was hilarious and totally engrained in our memories forever!

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UNVEILED HAWAII

Based On: Maui Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 3 Starting Rate: $1,000 Contact: 808-446-8811 www.unveiledhawaii.com About: Unveiled Hawaii thoughtfully curates details and flawless event flow so that our couple’s can feel like a guest at their own wedding. We believe your wedding should represent you; today, tomorrow, and every day for the rest of your life.

What is special about your business?

Unveiled Hawaii offers a very hands on approach to wedding planning and is a seasoned expert in all things weddings in Hawaii.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? Features: Print publications include The Knot, Bridal Guide, Inside Weddings, Destination I Do as well as numerous online publications to include; Vogue, Town & Country, Martha Stewart, Style Me Pretty, Carats & Cake, Party Slate, In Style, Once Wed and Wedding Chicks.

Awards: Best of Knot Hall of Fame 2018, 2017 Mayor's Small Business Awards Maui County.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? No matter WHAT happens, which as we all know now, anything CAN happen; at the end of the day remember it is about the BOTH of you and your celebration of love! That is what is most important.

What was your most memorable wedding? A five-day wedding soiree we produced in Lanai for a small group of 40.

Beginning with a welcome dinner, followed by a day on the ocean, a bourbon and leather inspired gathering in Lanai City; a boho inspired Hawaiian luau, ending with the momentous wedding day celebration at The Four Seasons Lanai.

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VIVIDFOTOS

Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: All Islands Years In Business: 8 Starting Rate: $850 Contact: 808-321-2839 www.vividfotos.com About: I’m Melissa, and my husband and I started VIVIDfotos in 2012 after we got married. Experiencing my own wedding allowed me to see the importance of being present and soaking in all the joy and emotion alive on a wedding day.

What is special about your business?

From the beginning of my relationship with my couples, I want to make sure they can truly savor their special day. I guide my couples so they are able to enjoy their wedding day, and also have amazing photos to cherish and share with friends and family. Especially after this pandemic, and having a family, I want my couples to be able to experience things that they can enjoy today!

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We’ve received The Knot Best of Weddings, Wedding Wire Couple’s Choice Awards, and People Love us on Yelp! We’ve also been published on Hawaii Wedding Style, Wedding Chicks, and other many other wedding blogs.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Choose a photographer and cinematographer who you really get along with since they’ll be with you more than any other vendor on your wedding day. This way you’ll be able to feel comfortable in front of the camera and enjoy your day to the fullest!

What was your most memorable wedding? Our most memorable wedding was with our couple Isabelle and Nick. The way they were fully present, reveling in all the love and excitement with their friends and family, was just magical!

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WHITE BEACH CHAPEL Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 4 Starting Rate: $3,025 Contact: 808-829-1423 www.thebesthawaiiwedding.com About: The Best Hawaii Wedding is pleased to introduce White Beach Chapel, the latest addition to our portfolio of custom designed wedding chapels. This gorgeous venue is a touch of old world glamor conveniently located in the heart of Waikiki at the Hilton Hawaiian Village resort.

The intimate chapel frames a sparkling panoramic ocean view and is rich with custom details. Romantic and whimsical, the space features vintage French-inspired decor set in the unparalleled tropical beauty of Hawaii. The altar overlooks an oceanfront lagoon, plus the surrounding grounds and beaches offer wonderful photo opportunities including views of Diamond Head!

What is special about your business?

With over 30 years of experience in the wedding industry, we have experience in all areas to ensure your special day is memorable.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We have been featured numerous times in Hawaii Wedding Style Magazine and The Knot.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Enjoy your wedding day and leave the details to the experts.

What was your most memorable wedding? Since all of our clients are treated like family, all of our weddings are memorable in our eyes.

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WINDWARD WATERFRONT GARDEN Based On: Oahu Islands Servicing: Oahu Years In Business: 4 Starting Rate: $1,775 Contact: 808-829-1423 www.thebesthawaiiwedding.com About: Nestled on the water’s edge of Kaneohe Bay, Windward Waterfront Garden is a hidden gem on Oahu’s East Shore. With the majestic Koolau Mountains as it backdrop, this secluded venue offers a variety of options for your special day. The lush outdoor lawn is the perfect setting for an outdoor ceremony or the historic hall enclosed with floor to ceiling glass opens up to a panoramic view of the beautiful Kaneohe Bay. Just 35 minutes away from Waikiki, the beautiful scenic drive is just a prelude to what you will experience at Windward Waterfront Garden.

What is special about your business?

With over 30 years of experience in the wedding industry, we have experience in all areas to ensure your special day is memorable.

What are your awards, accomplishments, or features? We have been featured numerous times in Hawaii Wedding Style Magazine and The Knot.

What is the best tip that you can give a wedding couple? Enjoy your wedding day and leave the details to the experts.

What was your most memorable wedding? Since all of our clients are treated like family, all of our weddings are memorable in our eyes.

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Hawaii Island "The Big Island" The island of Hawaii, sometimes known as “Big Island,” is the largest in the Hawaiian island chain and the youngest, as it is still growing. Envision yourself sitting only a couple hundred of feet back from the site of lava-flow in a boat, witnessing the synergy between fire and water, as they breathe life into one another. The island of Hawaii is the only island in the Hawaiian chain with an active volcano, Kilauea. The island boasts a whimsical variety of climates, landscapes, and atmospheres. The island of Hawaii is also home to two other famous mountains— Maunakea, which is the world’s highest sea mountain with a snow-frosted tip; and Maunaloa, the world’s most colossal mountain. The island is home to the breathtaking Hamakua coast and the valley of Hilo, with greenery and waterfalls that stretch on for miles, the famous Punaluu black sand beach, and also the Historic Kailua Village. On the island of Hawaii, you experience both the power of Native Hawaiian culture and the power of nature.

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Maui " T h e Va l l e y I s l e " The “Valley Isle” lives up to its name year after year, being voted the “Best Island” by people around the world for more than 20 years. From the undeveloped coastlines to the country towns, the island of Maui is the perfect example of country meets modernity. Get a cultural experience with front row seats of Maui’s beautiful coastline and gorgeous greenery its rainforests offers on an unforgettable and rewarding “Road to Hana” trip or head to Wailuku and visit the sacred Iao Valley. Maui is home to the iconic beaches of Kaanapali, which were frequented

by Hawaiian royalty who returned here to escape their daily routines. Haleakala National Park, translated in Hawaiian means the “House of the Sun” — a most suiting name for the best place to watch the colors of sky dance and transition from sunrise to sunset to the heavens alight with stars.

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Oahu "The Gathering Place" Oahu is home to Hawaii’s capital city of Honolulu. The island of Oahu offers a contrasting cultural experience between a modernized, city lifestyle in downtown Honolulu, to a more relaxed, surfer-town vibe on the North Shore. Compare this relaxed culture to the residents of Waikiki and you see why Waikiki is known as “the Waikiki strip.” Waikiki is a blend of both locals and tourists, in which creates that “aloha” spirit and experience. When the sun closes its eyes and sinks over the horizon, those who call the south shore home, come out to play.

Similar to “the Las Vegas strip,” “the Waikiki strip” never sleeps.

Taking the country roads of Haleiwa back into town, you can physically find yourself transitioning back into modernity. No town on Oahu is the same. Each has its own character, shaping the community and its culture to match. The heart of the island of Oahu, is its cultural diversity.

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Kauai "The Garden Isle" The island of Kauai, is the oldest and most northern isle and sits majestically draped in her emerald lusciousness. Her tears take the form of heaving waterfalls, and we find her smile in the fragrant flowers that we tuck behind our ears. Known as the “Garden Isle,” the island of Kauai surely lives up to the name. The air on Kauai is more than breathable, with the trade winds trading secrets with the trees that stand proudly at the feet of Mt. Waialeale. This uninhabited region is a deafening reminiscence of Hawaii’s natural beauty — untouchable, unforgettable, and simply Kauai. The latter serves as a reflective mirror for the people, culture, and atmosphere. Even for locals living on the other islands, Kauai is a destination of choice because it is an inimitable escape, a reason to hold your breath, and a reminder of what exists outside of daily routines.

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- INSTA WORTHY -

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INSTA-WORTHY Check out some of the best Instagram accounts in Hawaii.

1 . @ a l ohazo ep hotog r aphy (Aloha Zoe Photography) 2. @ rae m arshall (Rae Marshall Photography) 3. @ chrisje vansp ho to (Chris J. Evans Photography) 4. @ m and ygrac ed e s ig ns (Mandy Grace Designs) 5. @sheytograp hy (Sheyanne Lyn Photography)

Want to be included in our next issue?

Post your photo on Instagram and tag us @hawaiiweddingstyle.

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- THE MARKETPLACE -

CO U T U R E W E D D I N G S H AWA I I

H AWA I I W E D D I N G F I L M S + P H O TO S

Planner / Designer

Photographer / Videographer

Couture is the production of something high end, and custom made. Their mission is to offer the finest, high-end, glamour-filled, wedding that is personalized to the very detail of the modern couple.

An affordable wedding Video + Photo company specializing in capturing small destination weddings and delivering an amazing product.

www.hawaiiweddingfilmsandphotos.com

www.coutureweddingshawaii.net

K R I S L A B A N G P H O TO G R A P H Y

MAKANA ACADEMY

Photography

Health & Beauty

My goal is to shoot what you feel and help you remember how beautiful your day was. Especially if it’s something you might have missed or perhaps make the memory look great as well.

Makana welcomes you to relax, rejuvenate and nurture your spirit. Each service is infused with Hawaiian culture, and the natural elements of earth, water and wood that are represented..

www.krislabang.com

www.makanaacademy.com

T H E WA X R O O M H AWA I I

ZOE LASH PRO

Beauty

Beauty

Get smooth sleek and sexy. Our fast and efficient waxing services will leave your skin hair-free and feeling luxurious.

Hawaii’s foremost beauty studio offering Haute Couture of Eyelash Extensions, designed around the clients features enhancing their natural beauty.

@thewaxroomhawaii

@zoelashpro

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A R I A S T U D IO S

November 5th - 10th, 2020. Wedding Week Hawaii is an upscale interactive social event and educational experience to showcase Hawaii’s wedding specialists in exquisite venues across the islands. Through this boutique approach, brides and grooms-to-be, along with industry professionals, will have the opportunity to experience the best of what Hawaii’s wedding industry has to offer.

WWW.QUEENKAPIOLANI.COM

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