By Nicole Sanchez

Considering a Hawaiian wedding? Hawaii is one of the most beautiful and romantic locations to hold a wedding. However, before you make a rash decision, there are several factors to consider before taking this leap. In this part one of three, consider the wedding style, location and the honeymoon.

Having a wedding in Hawaii is a big step as there is much travel and lodging to consider. If you feel this task could be overwhelming, you may want to consider hiring a wedding coordinator or consultant located on the island of your choice to assist you in the planning of your big day.

Wedding Style

Prior to planning out the details of your wedding, you need to first decide on your wedding style. The style you choose will dictate the details of your wedding planning. For many couples, Hawaii is a ideal location for a romantic place for a wedding, not to mention a fun, low-key wedding style. In Hawaii, you have many options. You may choose to have your ceremony in a ballroom, a fancy hotel, in a garden or of course, an Hawaiian beach. The beach of course offers breath taking views and allows for wonderful photographs.

It is also a possibility to rent out a chapel or a private villa for your wedding ceremony and reception. Other items to take in consideration for a Hawaiian wedding would be the option of including the Hawaiian culture. Perhaps it is the culture and tradition of the clothing, music, food or wedding vows. Only you can decide the direction to take your ceremony.

Location

Locations for a Hawaii wedding get reserved quickly therefore plan at least a year in advance and reserve your location. Not only booking early gives you that peace of mind, but it allows time for booking the different vendors you will need. Since you will be traveling, an early reservation also allows family, friends and other guests to start planning in advance as well. A wedding in Hawaii is not something you throw together last minute unless you are not planning on a small guest list.

You also want to take in consideration the date of your wedding. If you are looking to marry in Maui on Valentine’s Day, you may have to book earlier than a year, be flexible with location on Maui or reserve your spot a lot sooner than a year out. Special days such as Valentine’s Day or a unique date such as the past November 11, 2011 (11/11/11) fill up pretty fast.

Like with many couples selecting a location, you may want to take the time to visit the location to ensure it is suitable for you and your guests. If you have seen it in previous visits or can get a virtual tour via the internet, then you may be good to go. Otherwise, you may want to take the time and money and come to Hawaii to see for yourself. After all, what if you are planning a beach wedding where there is sand, water and perhaps rocks and you have guests in wheelchairs? It may become an issue. Better to deal with that up front instead of at the altar.

When planning a wedding in Hawaii, first narrow it down to which island to have it on. Once you have decided that, you can obtain a list of its many locations to have your ceremony and any potential obstacles you will need to overcome. Unless you live in Hawaii and already know the area, hiring a wedding consultant that is familiar with that particular island is highly recommended.

Honeymoon

So many people head to Hawaii for their honeymoons. However, what if you get married in Hawaii? Do you have to leave the island? Why should you? Stay in Hawaii and explore all that the island has to offer, especially if you have never been there before. Take the opportunity to do the touristy things, but also take in the life of the locals. You will be amazed by what you can find when you get into the heart of the islands.

Perhaps you got married on the island of Oahu and want some alone time with your new spouse away from family and friends, then take a couple of days over on Maui as each island has so much to offer that differs from one another. After a couple of days, go back to enjoy Hawaii with your family and friends to make it a truly great vacation.

About The Author

Behind The Lens Maui specializes in professional quality photography, with an emphasis in Maui weddings. If you are looking for a Wedding Photographer in Maui, visit us online or call us at 808-205-2366. Behind The Lens Maui - 75 Waiaka, Wailuku, Hi 96793 www.behindthelensmaui.com

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