Maybe you are looking for to simplify your wedding plans or don't see the point in spending a year's salary on a one-day event. Or you've always dreamed of getting married in Hawaiʻi in a picturesque beach wedding. Whatever the reason, elopements and smaller destination weddings are becoming more and more popular with couples. Before you ditch the traditional wedding plans, check out some of these dos and don’ts.
Don’t Forget To Plan
You may not need a traditional wedding planner, and your wedding to-do list may be a lot shorter there are some very important details to consider. You will need to set a date and location. Make sure to get the marriage license, or it won’t count (at least in the eyes of the government). Consider an officiant, there are a lot of great officiants that specialize in short-but-sweet ceremonies. And don’t forget about the decorations. Maybe not as grandiose as a larger wedding, but a bouquet, boutonnière and even lei will help to make the ceremony even more romantic.
Do Tell Your Parents
Mom and Dad should never find out about you got married on social media. And you don’t want someone else telling them before you. Make sure to call them. Remember, they may be disappointed that they were not there.
Don't Forget About The Photos
If you're going old school and getting married by a civil servant (judge, mayor, town clerk), this classic shot will capture the spirit of your simple but just-as-meaningful I dos. And if you are going through the planning to have an intimate ceremony on the beach, a photographer will be there to capture all of the emotions and beautiful moments.
Do Add Special Touches.
Think about writing your own vows. Or consider a special date that is meaningful to the two of you. Maybe add in a unique item or piece of decor that will make your wedding ceremony memorable. Remember, the ceremony should be small, but that doesn’t mean your decorations need to be.
Do Plan A Reception Back Home For Friends and Family
A simple reception or dinner party will mean the world to your loved ones. They may not have been there during your ceremony, but they will still want to celebrate with you. This can be as large or as small as you want. Even a backyard barbecue can be fun.
If you are considering eloping in Hawaiʻi or are planning a destination wedding here in the islands, we would love to hear from you and see how we can best capture your special day.