Planning Your Hawaiian Wedding in Paradise

With its beautiful climate, miles of beaches, and tropical flowers, Hawaii is one of the most romantic spots on Earth. It’s no surprise that so many couples decide to begin their married lives by exchanging vows in this enchanted locale. Here are some things you should know as you begin planning your Hawaiian wedding in paradise.

Choose the Date

While Hawaii typically enjoys ideal weather year round, there are times of year that are more favorable for weddings. Summer and fall are the peak seasons for weddings in Hawaii, so if you hope to avoid crowds you may want to opt for a different season to get married in. Winters in Hawaii are very mild and, if you have your heart set on a winter beach wedding, the odds of mild outdoor weather are greatly in your favor.

While the weather is pleasant year round, the islands’ flow of tourists should factor into your planning. Major holidays and popular travel times bring large crowds and higher costs, so if you hope for an intimate beach wedding there are some dates to avoid. Some annual events that bring large crowds to Hawaii are:

• Japan’s Golden Week holiday, from late April to early May
• Merrie Monarch Festival, beginning Easter Sunday
• Ironman World Championship (check for current dates)
• Big wave surfing events, typically held December–February

Take Care of Paperwork

The State of Hawaii issues marriage licenses, and their online system makes it easy for out of state couple to fill out and pay for their marriage license application ahead of time. You will have to finalize your license in person, so make time for that as you plan your itinerary. The basic requirements for marriage license applicants in Hawaii are:

• Both applicants must be at least 18 years old; younger applicants may be ineligible or require official consent from a legal guardian
• Both applicants must appear before the marriage license agent at the time of application
• Official proof of age, such as a certified birth certificate (age 18 and under) or a driver’s license (age 19+), must be provided
• Applicants must pay a $65 fee for the license and processing

Pick a Place

You’ll first have to decide which island you wish to get married on. There are six Hawaiian islands to choose from. Here is a very brief summary of what each island has to offer. Click on the island name for more detailed information and links to wedding planners on each island.

• Oahu offers beautiful beaches, historic venues like Kawaiahao Church, and world class hotels and resorts.
• Maui is called the Magic Isle and offers everything from a casual beach wedding to a five diamond resort setting.
• Kauai allows you to choose from North Shore or South Shore beaches, historic estates, and lavish resorts.
• Lanai is a more secluded option and is perfect for those who seek an intimate location for their wedding ceremony.
• Island of Hawaii gives you the option of a sunset beach ceremony on the Kona or Kohala coasts, along with serene pagodas, horseback rides, and more.
• Molokai is perfect for those who want a very low key, personal wedding ceremony.

After you have chosen an island you can then narrow the location further depending on what your dream wedding day is. As you can see from the brief list above, your options range from secluded beaches to luxury resorts and everything in between!

Find a Wedding Coordinator

Once you have the date set, have filed for the correct paperwork, and have chosen the perfect island location for your wedding, turn to the professionals for the rest of the planning. A wedding coordinator will help you with all the local details such as floral arrangements, photographers, and reception planning. Make your big day as stress free as possible by letting a wedding coordinator pamper you. The official Hawaiian tourist website has an extensive list of wedding coordinators that you can check out to find the right professional for your big day.

Begin your new lives together as a married couple by saying “I love you” the Hawaiian way: aloha au ia oe. A beautiful wedding in paradise is a perfect way to begin your journey as a pair. Need to find the perfect dress for your Hawaiin wedding?  Be sure to stop by our Berkley, Michigan location and let us help!