How to Get Your Hawaii Marriage License - Instructions & Tips

Oftentimes when planning a wedding, it’s easy to want to just focus on all the fun parts of the planning process! Such as selecting your flowers, decor, favors, and so much more! However, the MOST important item that we need but don’t often think about as much as the “fun” stuff is your Marriage License!

What’s the difference between a Marriage License and a Marriage Certificate you ask? 

  • A Marriage License is the document that states that you and your partner are allowed to legally get married. (A couple should get this BEFORE their wedding!)

  • A Marriage Certificate is the document that states that you and your partner are legally married! (A couple should get this AFTER their wedding!)

  • Not to make things confusing but a “Decorative Certificate” is something many vendors or venues may give a couple. This is purely decorative and is not a legal document in any way.

As this is such an important but often overlooked item in the wedding planning process we sat down with well experienced officiant Reverend James Chun to share some instructions and tips on how to get your Hawaii marriage license!

What are the Steps to Getting a Marriage License in Hawaii?

  1. Apply online at https://emrs.ehawaii.gov/emrs/public/home.html

  2. Go in-person to the Hawaii Health Department (Both people MUST be present)

What Do You Need to Apply for a Marriage License?

Online Application 

To fill out this application you will need to know the following: 

    • Date and location of the wedding.

    • Mother’s maiden names, and Parents’ birth dates.

    • The chosen name for anyone changing their name after the marriage. This will be listed as the “Declared Name”.  

    • Name of performer. This will be the name of your officiant who is registered in the State of Hawaii.

    • Fill out the application to the best of your ability! If you fill in anything incorrectly, or do not know the required information, it’s okay! When you meet the marriage agent at the health department you can let them know what information needs to be adjusted and they should be able to help you update your application!  

In order to submit the application, you will have to pay $65.00

In-Person Visit

  1. As you and your significant other will need to go in-person to the Hawaii Health Department, we recommend making an appointment prior! Click here to schedule an appointment! 

  2. If you choose to walk-in, we recommend going to the Hawaii Health Department before 12pm as walk-ins typically have a higher chance earlier in the day. 

  3. Both of you will need to bring photo identification, such as a Driver’s license, State ID, or Passport.

  4. Bring your receipt (in email if applied online) that has your locator ID. 

Photo from: Honolulu Civil Beat

What Happens at the In-Person Visit?

With your partner, you will meet with a marriage agent and they will verify that your application has all of the necessary information. Then they will have you take an oath attesting that everything stated is true, and that you both are there on your own will to get married! Following that, you will get your license! 

When Should you Apply for a Marriage License/Pick up the License?

You are able to apply for a marriage license up to one year before the date you plan to get married. 

You should pick up your Marriage License within 30 days prior to your wedding. Once you pick up your marriage license you will have 30 days to get married, before it expires. That’s why we highly recommend waiting to pick up your license a week or two before your wedding date! 

How to Get Your Marriage Certificate? 

On the day of your wedding, bring your marriage license with you to the ceremony. Following the ceremony you and your officiant will typically sign the license and then they will submit it to the Vital Records department so that you can get your marriage certificate! If your officiant is doing this service for you, it’s always good to follow-up a few days after your wedding to make sure that they submitted it to ensure that you two are legally married! Typically the certified marriage certificate will be ready within 2-4 weeks after your wedding. However if you need it sooner than that, the temporary copy can typically be downloaded within 1-3 business days following your wedding. You can also go to the vital records department in person, to request a certified copy (may have to pay a fee). 

Couples That are Traveling to Hawaii for Their Wedding

If you’re flying to Hawaii for your wedding, please note that you MUST HAVE a Hawaii Marriage License in order to get married in Hawaii. Due to this, if you are unable to visit the Hawaii Health Department prior to your wedding, there are agents that work outside of the health department that you can contact to see if they can meet with you to give you your license. Check out the Hawaii Health Department website to see the license agents that work outside of typical hours. 

XOXOXO

Happy Planning!

(A Perfect Day)

Fun Gift Ideas for Your Wedding Party

Photography: Embr Photo

Your wedding party is made up of the people in your life that have been there for you through all the ups and all the downs! Maybe they were there to help you get through every breakup and now they’re getting to see you marry the person of your dreams! Or maybe they’re the person that always encouraged you to try new things and one of the new things you tried led to you meeting your significant other! No matter the story behind your relationship, the members of your wedding party are some of the most important people in your life and will now be such a important part of the life you’re creating with your other half! 

If you’re still trying to figure out who should be in your wedding party, check out our blog sharing five things to consider when selecting your wedding party! 

Whether or not your love language is “Gifts” as we know that so many of our couples like to give their wedding party a gift to say thank you, we’ve come up with a few fun gift ideas for your wedding party! 

Photography: Ryan O Photo

Luxury Gifts 

The folks in your wedding party have helped you through the planning process, been there to listen to you vent, and to lend a helping hand at a moment's notice. So a  gift of luxury, perhaps something they wouldn’t typically purchase for themselves as it’s a bit of a splurge, may be a nice way to say thank you for all of your help and here’s something to make you feel a little “extra”! 

Luxury Gift Ideas for Both Parties:

  • Jewelry 

  • Watch

  • Electronic Device

  • Certificate for a Massage (something they can do after your wedding!)

Sentimental Gifts 

It seems that there’s no gift that will be able to truly express how much gratitude and love you have for your wedding party but a sentimental gift comes close. As they’re often connected to a story or sweet memory they’re a meaningful gift to give to some of the most meaningful people in your life! Each year these gifts will grow with more and more sentiment as they celebrate such a wonderful friendship! 

Sentimental Gift Ideas for Both Parties:

Personalized Gifts 

Photography: Bianca Photography

A gift created specifically for each member of your wedding party not only makes them feel extra special but it is also a fun way to show them that they are truly one of a kind to you! As local engraving shops and sellers on Etsy seem to be able to personalize a wide variety of items, this is a great option for couples who want to give their wedding party practical gifts that are unique to the person and/or the occasion! 

Personalized Gift Ideas for Both Parties:

  • Drinkware

  • Clothing and Accessories

  • Tote Bags/Backpacks

  • Cufflinks (Something that they’ll use on the wedding day!)

We hope these ideas help you find the perfect gift to say thank you to your wedding party, as well as that’s a “WRAP” on the wedding planning!

XOXOXO

Happy Planning!

(A Perfect Day)

What Does It Mean To Have A True Elopement?

GUEST BLOG BY HAWAII VISTA WEDDINGS

What does it mean to have a TRUE ELOPEMENT? The word elopement is derived from the Anglo-French word aloper, meaning to run away or abduct. This romantic idea involves a private and intimate wedding. In the past, elopement was reserved for secretive couples who wanted to avoid the drama of a traditional wedding. A true elopement means “to run away secretly with the intention of getting married usually without parental consent” as found in the dictionary. Although many people consider an elopement up to 20 people, it really is just the two of you and an officiant .Anything more than two is really a small wedding. Eloping is just about what you want SOLEY for yourselves.

Photo by Michele C Photo

Here Are 4 Reasons To Have A True Elopement

1. Wanting to Be Stress Free

If you are tired of the stress of planning a traditional wedding, opt out of one and have a true elopement. Be sure to discuss all the details with your partner. What's most important to you? Do you want to be casual barefoot in the sand on a nice tropical island, or married at the edge of a mountain? You should still hire a wedding planner to help you with the planning because usually an elopement still requires great vendors and coordination which can be very stressful. If your whole intent is to relax and enjoy yourselves, spend the money to have someone help you plan. Another thing that causes stress is family and friend drama. Elopements give couples the freedom to get married without the stress of family problems, expectations, and traditions. Many families are dysfunctional, and a wedding can bring a painful reminder of past misunderstandings. Parents may start to take over the planning and make it the wedding of THEIR dreams. Suddenly you are attending a wedding that you did not want and with people you don’t know.Who to invite and who not to invite can be stressful in itself. Will one ex parent get along with the other? If you don’t invite one to avoid the drama, will feelings get hurt for the one who is not invited? Will your best friend be mad at you if you invite her ex who is your cousin? Making the list can be a stressful one that starts off your wedding with a bad taste that only continues during picture taking and table seating arrangements.

2. On a Budget

The average cost of a wedding is $30,000 dollars!! Instead of spending thousands of dollars on a large, over-the-top wedding, consider a small, intimate elopement and make it truly magical. You will save a lot of money on unnecessary party favors , gifts, bridesmaids dresses, travel fees, lodging, food to feed an army with elaborate table settings,and the list goes on. You will be surprised how the cost keeps growing and growing as unexpected wedding costs pop up. Once you are committed to one thing, it’s hard to back down with the others. If you are paying for hair and make up for your mom, you probably should pay for your future Mother in law. If you are paying for airfare and lodging for the brides sister, the grooms sister may feel hurt if hers is not paid for too. At this point you are already in too deep to back out.

An elopement can be done any day of the week, saving lot’s of money. You can have your wedding on a weekday since you aren’t worried about everyone taking off from work. Many venues and vendors are cheaper on weekdays and non holidays.

Most couples are young and starting off in life. Blowing your whole savings while thinking about buying a house and starting a family can be a financial burden. Money is a big issue in marriage so why start your marriage off in debt and uncertainty?

3. Have a Unique Wedding

Pictures from Pinterest

If it is just the two of you, you can do whatever you want! Want to sky dive out of a plane and say “I do” 14,000 feet in the air? Go scuba diving 130 feet under the water or have a snowmobile race and get married in a secluded spot on a chilly mountainside to mark your special day. Once you are done, you can have an amazing picnic for the two of you. Have a first dance with a musician to serenade you while a local artist paints a scene of your love story. Fly to another country the next day and explore the world newly married. There are officiants and wedding planners out there that will have an adventure with you. So find one and get creative.The ideas are endless and nothing seems more romantic than just being with the one you love. If you are planning to have kids right away, this may be the last time you are alone together for a while so make it great!

4. Don’t Like Big Weddings

Just because you are getting married, does not mean everyone needs to celebrate with you. With a true elopement,you won't have to worry about coordinating 200-300 guests or planning for large groups and families. If you're an introvert, a big wedding might be overwhelming and uncomfortable. It's hard to enjoy and be yourself when you're surrounded by so many family members and friends all wanting your attention. Feeling obligated to talk to everyone can be a challenge. The idea that so many people made the time to come see you can be intimidating with expectations mounting. This is supposed to be one of the best days of your life and for some people being the center of attention just sounds like a nightmare. Even with a small wedding, having people looking at you and admiring you can be so awkward and uncomfortable. With an elopement you can still pamper yourselves by getting your hair and makeup done, hiring a photographer and videographer, have champagne and cake. Friends and families can still send you gifts or cards to congratulate you but if you are a quiet person, a true friend or family member will understand.

An elopement allows you to focus on your partner and to make your wedding exactly the way you want it to be.Just make sure that you're comfortable and relaxed, as elopement ceremonies can be fun and memorable! If you let everyone know that it is really going to be just the two of you, then it sends the message to everyone “it’s all about us”! So grab your partners hand, leave the drama behind, and start your life together as one.

XOXOXO

Happy Planning!

(A Perfect Day)

2022 & 2023 Trending Wedding Color Themes

We know that colors can hold so much meaning. They can make us feel happy, remind us of a time in our lives, and even symbolize someone special! For one of the most meaningful days of your life it’s natural to want to select wedding colors that are also very meaningful to you and your partner! And as there are SO MANY beautiful different shades to choose from, we’ve found a few color themes that are trending for 2022 & 2023 weddings and hope that they’ll give “hue” some inspiration!

Lilac + Vintage Yellow + Blush Pink

Florist: Halu Hawaii | Hair & Makeup: Face Art Beauty Photography: Caitlin Alohilani Photography

Though Blush Pink has been a wedding color favorite for the past few years, Lilac and Vintage Yellow have been making their way up the color popularity ladder! So it’s no surprise that together these three colors really create a theme of sweet elegance! 

With multiple colors in your wedding theme, it can be easy to feel that you have to use the combination of colors in every area of your wedding. However, one of the best parts of having a color theme is that you’re able to use each color individually in different areas, and when they come together they beautifully showcase your color theme! Such as these bridesmaids in Lilac dresses don’t need to also have Vintage Yellow, or Blush Pink in their attire because the colors are represented in the flowers of their bouquet! 

TIP: Including greenery is a great way to ground the light colors and provide a subtle contrast to the overall theme!

Coral Pink + FuchisIa + Canary Yellow + Green

Florist: Always Flowers 808 | Hair & Makeup: Cherbu Makeup Photography: StephEn Ludwig Photography

We don’t know about you, but looking at these colors together immediately transport us to one place… TROPICAL PARADISE! Which is of course the perfect theme to use when getting married in Hawaii! The vibrancy of these colors together truly create stunning eye catching floral pieces! 

As these colors are on the brighter side, if you're looking for a color to pull together the ensemble we recommend earthy, natural tones. This bride’s use of Navy Blue to stand alone against the tropical ensemble created a really beautiful balance of tropical plants meets the deep sea!

TIP: Including a metallic color such as silver, gold, or champagne can be a fun way of adding some extra texture to your color theme!

White + Forest Green + Neutrals

Florist: Always Flowers 808 | Venue: Hawaii Vista Weddings Photography: Mike pham photography

A color theme showing the true sweetness in the simple things. The softness of the white florals, paired with the freshness of the greenery, and neutral undertones creates a truly classic look and feel to an intimate wedding. The use of neutral colors such as tan and peach in the groom’s suit and tie, was a great way to include moments of warmth to the overall color scheme!

Tip: Look for a photographer who’s editing style compliments your color scheme/has the ability to photograph you in a way that best showcases your colors!

We hope you’ll be able to say “I do” to one of these 2022 & 2023 trending wedding color themes! If not, we hope that they at least inspired you to add some color to your vision board and find the wedding color theme that is meaningful to the both of you and will be the perfect backdrop for your wedding day! :)  

XOXOXO

Happy Planning!

(A Perfect Day)

5 Things to Consider When Selecting Your Wedding Party

You chose the person that you’re going to spend the rest of your life with YAY! :) So now it’s time to choose the people that are going to be there to support you and your other half on your wedding day and throughout the many years after!

Photography: Embr Photo | Venue: La Pietra

Your wedding party AKA your Bride Tribe, Friends of Honor, I Do Crew, etc, are going to be  your main support group for your wedding and for your new life with your partner! They are the people that will be there for you through the stressful moments of wedding planning as well as be there to “chee-hooo” the loudest during your big celebration! 

Though this decision may be easy for some, we also know that it can be a very difficult and sensitive one for others. That’s why we are sharing 5 things we think that all couples should consider when selecting their wedding party! 

The Number 

As there’s no “rule” of how many bridesmaids or groomsmen one should have, we recommend you selecting people based on the quality of their relationship to you rather than by the number of people you think would look best in photos.

If having “balanced” photos is something that is a priority to you, but the ratio of bridesmaids to groomsmen (or vice versa) that you’re thinking to have are not equal, we recommend chatting with your photographer on various poses, and photo arrangements that can be done to best capture your wedding party. 

Photography: VIVIDfotos | Venue: Four Seasons Resort in Ko’Olina

The Cost 

Photography: Embr Photo | Venue: Kahala Hotel & Resort

As the greater number of guests you have = the greater the budget, similarly the greater number of members in your wedding party = the greater amount of coordination & spending you may have to do! Especially if you plan to purchase the attire for your wedding party, pay for hair & makeup services, buy gifts to present to them on your big day, as well as any costs that come with having a bachelor/bachelorette party, and/or destination wedding. 


Your Expectations 

It’s important that you and your significant other determine the expectations and responsibilities that you have for your wedding party so that after the members are chosen you don’t realize that the things you want from your wedding party are not the things they are able to provide. 

For instance, if you want a wedding party that’s very involved in the planning/DIYing of your wedding and would be able to stop by to help at a moment’s notice you may have to consider selecting people that live close to you rather than long distance friends. By having honest expectations of your wedding party you will be able to select the people that can take on those responsibilities and will be there for you in the way that you want and need  your wedding party to. 

Your Family

Though they will typically be sitting in the front row of your wedding, including your family members into your wedding party can be a nice way to make the event a bit more intimate! As your bridal party doesn’t necessarily need to be limited to just bridesmaids and groomsmen, this can be an opportunity to be unique! Such as the Bride’s brother being a bridesman, the groom’s sister a groomswoman, and even the family pup can be the flower girl or ring bearer! 

However, if you choose not to include your family in your wedding party that’s completely fine as well! If they expect to be included it may be good to have a conversation with them on your decision and to have them assist you in a different way so they still feel involved with your big day!

Other Wedding Roles

Besides having a wedding party you can also assign specific roles or tasks to folks that you want to have included but not necessarily in the party. This could be a great way to include family members as well! Some areas we often see family members or close friends assisting with are as the emcee of the reception, giving the banzai toast, and helping at the registration table!

Whether you choose to have a wedding party of 2 members or 10 we hope that these tips will help you in selecting the wonderful people that will make up your wedding party and be the smiling faces you’ll see standing next to you at the altar as you say your I DOs!

XOXOXO

Happy Planning!

(A Perfect Day)

CONGRATULATIONS JESSICA & KENNY! <3

Today we are throwing it back to November 2019 to highlight the beautiful wedding of Jessica & Kenny! 

At the stunning Kahala Resort located on the east side of the island of O’ahu, Jessica & Kenny tied the knot surrounded by their family & friends. It was truly a beautiful day to celebrate the happy occasion! The talented photographers from Embr Photo captured the entire event. One of our favorite photos from their wedding is of Jessica, Kenny, & all of their wedding guests! With the Hawaii wedding industry slowly going back to “normal” we look forward to seeing more photos like this one!

The day began with Jessica & her bridesmaids getting ready in their hotel room. The talented hair & makeup artists from both Grace Nicole Glam and CJ Siepka were there to help the bridal party get all dolled up for the special occasion!

As Jessica & her bridal party were getting ready, the ceremony and reception sites were also undergoing a makeover as the hardworking Kahala staff and vendors were creating the most beautiful setting for a wedding! The florists from both Florist Grand and Creative Concepts by Jeff decorated the area with lovely soft pink and white florals. In the reception area, the team from Elegance with Grace provided the drapery and linens that perfectly matched the color scheme of the wedding and created the perfect “pretty in pink” atmosphere!

Jessica & Kenny not only had a color theme of blush and ivory but also had a theme of travel for their wedding! We love the way they so creatively incorporated their passion for traveling into multiple areas of their celebration! A few of our favorite travel moments include the custom monogram created by Bliss DJs Hawaii as well as the cake design created by We Heart Cake Company!

To see more of Jessica & Kenny’s special day, check out the same day edit video created by the wonderful videography team from Inspired Films Hawaii.

It was an honor to be able to help Jessica & Kenny plan the wedding of their dreams and we wish them many more years of a happy marriage!

XOXOXO

(A Perfect Day)

Is Planning a Wedding Really that Hard? Do I need a Wedding Planner?

These are 2 questions we frequently hear and although our perspective and response to these questions may be unique to A Perfect Day, if it helps someone, we’re happy to share!

PC: Derek Wong Photography

PC: Derek Wong Photography

To discuss the first question: “Is Planning a Wedding Really that Hard?“ No, at least we don’t think so. This is evident in the fact that most couples are looking for what has been called a “day of” planner versus “full coordination”. We have found that the couples seeking “full coordination” are doing so usually because they don’t have the time to plan a wedding or often times don’t live here and are unfortunately scared into thinking the disconnection puts them at a higher risk of being taken advantage of. Both reasons have nothing to do with the ability to do with the mental capacity of being able to plan it. With technology only getting better with each day that passes, planning a wedding locally or from off island really isn’t much different anymore. Sure, you can’t taste the food or touch fabrics unless you are in person but the great news is that since Oahu is such a popular destination for weddings, our industry has adapted.

PC: Kai Photo

PC: Kai Photo

To discuss the second question: “Do I need a Wedding Planner?“ Again, our answer would be “No”. We feel our job is to relieve stress, anxiety, to guide our clients through their wedding day as smoothly as possible as well as to prevent and troubleshoot undesired situations. For that reason, if you aren’t worried about anything and are okay with or even prefer to do all the troubleshooting personally on your wedding day, then you probably don’t need a Wedding Planner :-).

Happy Planning!

XOXO A Perfect Day

5 Tips to Create Your Wedding Guest List

Planning a wedding comes with having to make A LOT of decisions! Some may be easy, such as selecting the flavor of your wedding cake (at least we think it’s easy RED VELVET OFC!). Whereas some may be REALLY difficult such as deciding who WILL and who WILL NOT be invited to your wedding! 

As there are so many factors to consider when building your guest list, we came up with the following 5 tips to help you in creating your perfect guest list! 

Venue: Hawaii Vista Weddings | Photography: Michele C Photo

1. Set Your Budget 

Most of the time, the greater amount of guests that you have at your wedding will result in the greater amount that you may need to spend on your wedding. With this in mind determining your overall budget, especially on how much you will be spending on your venue, will influence your guest count! Once you set your budget, you can then set your guest count, and then finally begin determining the people who will make up your set guest count number! 

Additionally, be aware of costs that may arise with out of town guests! 

If Hawaii is a destination wedding for any of your guests, and paying for a portion of the lodging/flight expenses is something that’s important to you, factoring in these possible costs may greatly influence the size and the names on your guest list. 

2. Establish Policies for Plus-Ones and Kids

If you’re planning to send an invitation to guests that have a significant other or kids, we highly recommend establishing a policy for determining if any/which Plus-Ones and Kids will be invited. By communicating with each other and creating a set rule for these two additional invitation groups, it will be clear to both you and your guests who will be invited. The following are some examples of policies that can be set for Plus-Ones and Kids.

Plus-Ones 

  • A significant other that both of you know.

  • Their other half is a part of your wedding party. 

  • Engaged or married couples.

  • Couples who live together. 

  • Been together longer than X months. 

Kids

  • Parent(s) are a part of the wedding party. 

  • In the wedding party (i.e. flower girl or ring bearer).

  • They’re family. 

  • At least X years old. 

  • Younger than X years old and both parents are invited. 

Photography: Embr Photo

By setting policies early, you may be able to avoid having to make decisions for Plus-Ones and Kids, on a case by case basis. You’ll also be able to anticipate how many Plus-Ones and Kids will be included in your guest count and decrease the chance of being surprised with a higher count when you receive RSVPs. 

3. Stick to the Guidelines

Whether it’s  guidelines you’ve created, like on Plus-Ones and Kids as mentioned above, or policies out of your control such as COVID-19 regulations, sticking to these guidelines will make it easier for you to communicate with guests how the guest list was created. Note that if you make any exceptions to the guidelines you may have to be prepared to explain the exceptions to your guests, that’s also why we highly recommend sticking to any guidelines, so that no one takes anything personally! 

 

4. Order Your List

Order the people on your guest list by priority rather than group. Instead of putting the names of your guests in relationship sections such as family, friends, coworkers, etc. Order your list from the people you most need at your wedding to the people that you will be okay with them not being there. Though it may sound harsh, by creating your list in this order if your guest list size has to decrease in any way, it will be easier for you to see who will have to not be invited (names at the bottom of the list) rather than re-looking at your entire list and going through the list by the different relationship sections.

5. Know Your Priorities

Photography: Bianca Gomes Photography | Officiant: Rev. James Chun

Does the wedding that you dreamed of match your guest list? If your vision is to have an intimate backyard wedding, but your guest count is over 50 people, really think about which one is more of a priority to you and who are really the people on that list! During the wedding planning process outside influences (espeically parents) can tend to affect the number of guests as well as who the guests are. Though this special event can be seen as a family event, at the end of the day it’s central focus is on you and your other half. So by knowing your priorities it will help you to keep to the wedding vision that you want! 

We hope these 5 tips help you in creating your ideal wedding guest list! As your wedding day is the ultimate celebration of you and your significant other committing to spend the rest of your lives together, you should be surrounded by the people that you wnat to be there to witness and support this incredible moment in your lives!!

XOXOXO

Happy Planning!

(A Perfect Day)

8 Factors to Consider When Selecting a Hawaii Wedding Venue

Venue: Hawaii Vista Weddings | Photography: Michele C Photo

With so many beautiful wedding venue options in Hawaii, it can be really difficult to choose which venue (or venues) is the perfect one for your wedding! From gorgeous gardens by the beach to beautiful ballrooms in luxury resorts we know that the choices can sometimes be very overwhelming for couples. Especially as every venue is unique and provides different items, amenities, and fees they can’t exactly just be compared side by side.

Due to that, we recommend that you and your other half determine what factor or factors are most important to the two of you, and only compare those areas when looking at multiple venues. With that in mind we created the following list of factors that you may want to consider when selecting a hawaii wedding venue! We hope that this list will help you find the wedding venue that will capture your personality, priorities, style, and of course budget!

  1. Site Fee & Minimum Guarantee

    A site fee is the amount that it will cost to book the venue space. Whereas the minimum guarantee is the amount that you are required to spend on food and/or drinks. Some venues may have higher site fees but lower minimum guarantees and vice versa. Note that as a minimum guarantee will require you to spend a certain amount, this factor may also affect your guest size. 

  2. Parking Fees 

    Though many local guests anticipate having to pay for parking, if taking care of this cost completely for your guests is something that is a priority to you, this is a cost to consider as some venues have free parking while others will have parking fees. 

  3. Bar Fees 

    Similar to parking fees, though guests are typically prepared to pay for their drinks, if taking care of this cost completely is something that is important to you, the cost and bar options is something to consider. Though most venues offer options of fully hosted bars, drink tickets, a time limit, or dollar limit it’s crucial to determine which option matters to you so that your venue aligns with this priority! .

Venue: Kahala Resort | Photography: Derek Wong Photography

4. Amenities

Some venues offer free or discounted items that would come with booking their venue such as a spa treatment, wedding cake, hotel rooms, ceremony/reception decor, and champagne glasses. Though it’s always nice to get items for free or at a discount, really consider if the amenities that are offered are things that you would actually use!

5. Service Fees

Used for a venue to cover their incidentals as well as for tipping their banquet staff this fee typically comes with every venue. However, the exact amount tends to differ from venue to venue so this fee is something to consider if you’re sticking to a tight budget. The service fee  percentages typically range from 21% to 30% of the venue cost. 

6. Provided Items

If having a venue that has the “standard” items such as chairs, linens, and an arbor are something that’s important to you as you won’t have to hire another vendor to provide these items, then you may want to consider venues that provide these standard items and possibly more. Some venues can even provide candles, cocktail tables, and easels upon request. 

7. Food

If you and your other half are “foodies”, this area may be especially important to you! You may want to consider venues that not only serve the food that you desire, but may also allow for a taste testing before the wedding. And if you’re planning on a budget does this venue provide a taste tasting at no extra charge? If the taste of the food served at your wedding is especially important to you, this may be high on your priority list! 

8. Atmosphere

What kind of atmosphere do you want for your wedding? A completely outdoor wedding by the beach? Or an outdoor ceremony and indoor reception in a ballroom? If there’s a certain type of atmosphere you want to create at your wedding see what venues are able to help you create that ambiance. If you’re still unsure whether you want an indoor or outdoor wedding, please check out our video below covering the topic as well as the five blogs that go into more depth of the pros & cons for both indoor and outdoor weddings! 

Know that if there’s a venue that you really want but it’s slightly above your budget there’s no harm in inquiring with the venue to see if any of the factors such as site fee, minimum guarantee, and the fees mentioned above can be negotiated!

Additionally, if you just want to see pictures and videos of the various properties, click here for a gallery of images and videos of weddings at the various wedding venues on the island of Oahu.

We hope this list of 8 factors to consider when selecting a Hawaii wedding venue will help you choose the perfect location for you and your best friend to say “I Do!”.

XOXOXO

Happy Planning!

(A Perfect Day)

Private Indoor Hawaii Wedding or Fresh Outdoor Hawaii Wedding? (Part 5 of 5)

We’ve saved one of the most important factors in this decision for last. Your budget is always important because it can determine how enjoyable and stress free the planning experience AND your wedding day will be!

COST: TO SPEND OR NOT TO SPEND…

According many of the couples we come into contact with, many of the brides originally think they will save money with an outdoor wedding.  As planning continues, most couples realize that an outdoor wedding usually costs more than an indoor one.  The reason it usually costs more is because the flexibility in cost is dependent on the couple’s preference. If you select an indoor venue that is top notch, it could be very pricey. If you decide to have an outdoor wedding with all the bells and whistles, that could also add up very quickly. Please keep in mind that if your venue does not provide the necessary items like: tents, chairs, linen, dance floor, sound equipment, generators, lighting, food, etc., it would be an additional cost.  NOTE:  If you are not okay with plastic utensils, that could be a cue that outdoors may cost you more than indoors.

PC: Visionari | Venue: The Kahala Hotel &amp; Resort

PC: Visionari | Venue: The Kahala Hotel & Resort

Indoor (PRO):

  • Fully staffed and No additional costs (liability insurance, catering, renting each fork, cup, napkin, disposing of trash, etc.)

Indoor (CON):

  • Minimum requirements (depending on the venue, their min. may be very high)

TIP: Consider all of your venue options before making your final decision. Ask questions and ALWAYS read the fine print.  No vendor we have worked with has ever tried to have any “hidden fees”.  If you tell your vendor what you have in mind and would like to have happen for your wedding, they can then tell you potential costs that might be involved (ie: microphone rental, video screen rental, staffing an extra bar, etc.)

Screenshot.jpg

Outdoor (PRO):

  • Flexibility (can be as inexpensive as the couple are comfortable with) and controllable bar costs (by providing your own beverages from Costco/Sam’s Club and returning what isn’t consumed).

Outdoor (CON):

  • More work (tents are a lot of work) and coordination means more vendors and details required. 

TIP: Try to find vendors that are able to provide more than one service. That way, you might be able to get a package deal instead of outsourcing to each individual vendor and paying each one a separate check.

Venue: Lanikuhonua

Venue: Lanikuhonua

It IS possible to have it all!

Our suggestion to “having it all” is to have your ceremony (and maybe cocktails) outdoors so you and your guests get to enjoy the outdoors when it matters most (when you can see everything and take pictures with a beautiful backdrop) with your reception indoors.  This option will save you on cost, stress, no worries about the weather, you will be in A/C, and you will very likely also be able to have your event last longer (as most outdoor events must end by 9-10pm).

Regardless of which setting you choose, either one can be turned into your dream wedding atmosphere with proper preparation. This is your special day and everything should be the way you’ve dreamed it would be! Hopefully this will help guide you in the appropriate direction that is right for you. Be sure to follow us for more blogs and tips! Happy Planning!

Happy Planning!

XOXO A Perfect Day

CONGRATULATIONS SARAH & SHANE <3

This lovely couple remained resilient through the ever changing COVID protocols and after 5 postponements, in early December of 2021 they were finally able to get married at the beautiful Halekulani hotel! 

Sarah and her bridesmaids got ready for the big day and then helped one of Shane’s groomsmen get dressed for the fake first look! 

A fake first look is a popular wedding trend where a friend, typically a groomsman, dresses up as a bride so when it’s time to do the first look, the groom who’s expecting to see the love of his life instead gets a big surprise! A fake first look is a great way to get any nerves out and it definitely makes anyone who witnesses it, have a big laugh! 

After the fake first look it was time for the REAL first look! You could see in Sarah & Shane’s faces how truly happy they were to finally be able to celebrate their love! 

Brandon of Brandon Smith Photography and Alex of Yee Films captured the wonderful moment and continued to take photos and videos of the couple and their wedding party as the guests were arriving for the ceremony. 

Once all the guests were checked in and found their seats the ceremony began! The talented musicians from Oahu Strings began playing the processional music as Shane, his groomsmen, and Sarah’s bridesmaids walked down the aisle.  Then all the guests were asked to rise for the arrival of the bride! The string trip began to play Tale as Old as Time from Disney’s Beauty & the Beast as Sarah, who looked like a true princess, walked down the aisle with her parents. 

Sarah and Shane exchanged their personal vows, and in front of their family and friends sealed their promise with a kiss! The guests tossed rose petals as the newlyweds took their first stroll down the aisle as husband and wife!  

For cocktail hour the happy couple mingled with their guests in the lanai as the ballroom was transformed from ceremony to reception! The beautiful florals provided by Creative Concepts by Jeff were relocated from the altar to the sweethearts table which were both beautifully decorated with linens from The Wedding Linen Company! The Hau Terrace looked pretty in pink and at 6pm the doors opened! 

We were so honored to be able to assist Sarah & Shane with finally being able to celebrate their wedding day and we wish them a very long and happy marriage!

5 Reasons to Have an Outdoor Wedding in Hawaii

Guest Blog by Hawaii Vista Weddings

Having an outdoor wedding in Hawaii is one of the most romantic events there are. The stunning natural landscapes make the setting a perfect backdrop for a beautiful ceremony and a reception with a view. Whether the couple wants to exchange vows in a tropical garden, or celebrate their union in a mountain setting, Hawaii has something for everyone.

5 reasons to have an outdoor wedding in Hawaii:

  1. Nature’s Backdrop

  2. Lighting

  3. All year round weather

  4. Social Distancing

  5. Reason to take a vacation

1.Nature’s Backdrop

You can enjoy sweeping views of the Mountains or capture a rainbow with a kiss. Having an outdoor wedding in Hawaii will give you a spectacular backdrop for photos. There are so many beautiful places in Hawaii with amazing panoramic scenery. 100’s of pictures are taken at your wedding by the photographer. Many of them are candid shots of the couple getting married, the guests watching the ceremony, eating at the reception, etc. When you are outdoors, almost every angle can have a beautiful backdrop. So no matter what the photographer is capturing, the photos will have a stunning background. There are a lot of rules for different locations. Such as hours of operations for parks or permits to get married at a beach or park. So be sure to look into them before you plan your wedding.

2.Lighting

Light is the most important element of photography. It is one of the main characteristics in changing the style of a photo.Nothing beats natural outdoor lighting for photos. Artificial lighting just can’t bring out the vigor that natural lighting does. No matter how much editing a photographer does, they just can’t replicate natures’ beauty. Outdoor weddings will have no shortage of great photo spots. The light peaking through the leaves of the trees or the romantic haze during the Golden hour makes breathtaking photos.

3.All year long

Pictures of Hawaii weddings are hard to tell if it is in the winter or summer! It could be December, and everyone is wearing warm weather clothing and the sun is shining outside. The climate of Hawaii’s tropical island is remarkably consistent throughout the year. It’s usually around 80 degrees during the day and around 75 at a night for any month. The temperatures are generally steady and sunny, which makes it ideal for a destination wedding. Because of the island's proximity to the Equator and it’s steady climate, you can plan your Hawaiian wedding any time of the year. True, there are rainier seasons and the weather can be unpredictable so you may need to make arrangements to ensure your event remains enjoyable. Be sure to ask your outdoor venue what their rain options are. Hurricane season generally runs June through December of every year but hurricanes are usually far and few between.You can constantly check the weather but to be honest there is a saying, “If you don’t like the weather in Hawaii, just wait 5 minutes”.

4.Social distancing

Social distancing, as most people probably know by now, is the idea that to slow the spread of the highly contagious coronavirus, you need to maintain a certain distance from people. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends social distancing, staying at least 6 feet apart from others indoors and outdoors, as part of its guidance to stop community spread of COVID-19. This is much easier to do when you are outdoors with more space and where it is less transmissible. One thing we learned through the pandemic is that outdoor weddings are safer as far as spreading the virus. Less restrictions were made with an outdoor wedding and social distancing is a bit easier.

5.Reason to Vacation

Whether you're planning an intimate ceremony or a lavish, elaborate reception, a Hawaiian destination wedding is a memorable experience for you and your guests. If you're planning a destination wedding, Hawaii offers the ideal blend of adventure, romance, and the perfect setting for an outdoor wedding. It will be unique and special for you and your guests .An outdoor wedding in Hawaii is a great way to incorporate native Hawaiian culture into your ceremony.
Aside from being exotic, a destination wedding in Hawaii also allows you to have a more intimate wedding with a limited guest list. Most people understand that destination weddings are usually meant for the immediate family and closest friends. Flights to Hawaii are not always cheap and can book up quickly. So be sure to plan ahead.

There are so many more reasons to have an outdoor wedding in Hawaii so get to it and plan your destination wedding now. The memories you will make will last a lifetime!

XOXOXO

Happy Planning!

(A Perfect Day)

Private Indoor Hawaii Wedding or Fresh Outdoor Hawaii Wedding? (Part 4 of 5)

We know how big of a decision this can be so we went a little deeper to explain another consideration which may help you with it!

VENDORS: SUPPLY AND DEMAND

As relaxing as an outdoor wedding seems, it may require more work than an indoor wedding. If the outdoor venue is not able to supply you with your outdoor necessities like: tents, tables, chairs, linen, food, catering equipment, dance floors, lighting, generators, setup/breakdown staff, servers, etc., you will need to look for a vendor that can supply you with all of the above, or work with multiple vendors to make sure you have everything you need. On the bright side, an outdoor wedding would allow you to customize every aspect to your liking, while indoor weddings might have restrictions and set packages that you have to oblige to.

Indoor (PRO):

Venue: The Kahala Hotel &amp; Resort

Venue: The Kahala Hotel & Resort

  • Not only do they provide you with tables and chairs, all of your vendors will have access to electricity! Not to mention, a full kitchen for all your catering needs (including space to keep your layered wedding cake).

Indoor (CON):

  • Limited food/catering options as well as limited decorating options.

TIP: Ask your vendors for their suggestions as they may have very creative ideas that work within the limitations as set forth by your venue

PC: Bianca Photography | Venue: Four Seasons Ko’Olina Resort

PC: Bianca Photography | Venue: Four Seasons Ko’Olina Resort

Outdoor (PRO):

  • You can bring your own food/choose your own caterer and your photographer can easily meander around your guests.

Outdoor (CON):

  • More supplies are needed, such as tents and covers to keep guests and food safe from rain, bugs, or even the sun. Also, lighting can be difficult due to the lack of outlets and power sources. You will have to get creative in finding ways to light up your evening.

TIP: Your vendors should have generators, but you might want to double check with them just in case their company doesn’t provide back-up generators.

Happy Planning!

XOXO A Perfect Day

Private Indoor Hawaii Wedding or Fresh Outdoor Hawaii Wedding? (Part 3 of 5)

Are you still unsure if an indoor or outdoor wedding is best for you? Here are some additional things that may help you to decide!

AMBIANCE AND DECOR: SETTING THE MOOD

Are you looking to be surrounded by the tranquility and natural beauty of our island (outdoors) or are you seeking something more private and extravagant (indoors)? With an outdoor wedding, this could mean less decorating since nature becomes your natural backdrop. Indoor weddings are enclosed so you won’t have to scream your vows (unless you want to) to overpower the noise of cars, planes, or construction work. Many venues have rules and regulations you may have to follow. Be sure to get all of your décor ideas “Okayed” by the establishment. If the venue doesn’t allow something, keep looking for the perfect venue!

PC: Keoni Michael | Venue: Hyatt Regency Waikiki

PC: Keoni Michael | Venue: Hyatt Regency Waikiki

Indoor (PRO):

  • Noise control and exclusiveness. You won’t have nosy strangers watch you exchange your “I Dos”. Candles work well, and you get to enjoy AIR CONDITIONING!

Indoor (CON):

  • No complimentary stars to look up and enjoy.

TIP: This could be a good thing. You might save a lot of money from less decorating. 

Venue: Hawaii Vista Weddings

Venue: Hawaii Vista Weddings

Outdoor (PRO):

  • Gorgeous “Hawaii” scenery. Lantern lights and a fantastic sunset can create a really magical end to your big day.

Outdoor (CON):

  • Your photographer will have to race the clock so that he doesn’t lose precious sunlight for those sunset photos.

TIP: Have a list of all the poses and photos you want to take and allocate enough time before the sunset for the photographer to work their magic.

Happy Planning!

XOXO A Perfect Day

Outdoor (PRO):

  • Gorgeous “Hawaii” scenery. Lantern lights and a fantastic sunset can create a really magical end to your big day.

Outdoor (CON):

  • Your photographer will have to race the clock so that he doesn’t lose precious sunlight for those sunset photos.

TIP: Have a list of all the poses and photos you want to take and allocate enough time before the sunset for the photographer to work their magic.

Happy Planning!

XOXO A Perfect Day

Private Indoor Hawaii Wedding or Fresh Outdoor Hawaii Wedding? (Part 2 of 5)

As promised, here is our next blog post about indoor versus outdoor weddings! As there are many other things to consider, feel free to follow us on Instagram or just follow our hashtag #APDblog to be notified of future posts as we discuss this topic. Bonus tip: There IS a way to have BOTH, ask us how!

WEATHER: THE BEAUTY OF MOTHER NATURE, OR NOT….

One of the things that Hawaii is known for is our beautiful weather and scenic views (especially during the summer). For those that are familiar with our weather will know that there are many possibilities. Some days, you might find yourself searching for a spot on the beach to soak up the sun, some days you might find yourself hiding from the sun. Some days the island breeze can give your hair that Picture Perfect wind effect, some days it can create a mini tornado with your hair! From sprinkles of rain, to thunderstorms, to hail, Mother Nature has never failed to keep us on our toes. But everyone knows that weather can be unpredictable. As you plan for one of the biggest days of your life, you still want to be considerate of the comfort of your guests. The key is to be prepared for any possible scenario. These days, there are really fancy tents you can rent to give your outdoor wedding an extravagant appeal as well as shelter for you and your guests.

Indoor (PRO):

  • Comfortably air conditioned, hair intact, dry clothes, clean shoes, and you won’t have to swat flies and mosquitoes all night.

Indoor (CON):

  • If it’s a beautiful day outside, you could miss out on enjoying the warmth of the sun and even the moonlight reflecting in the ocean (unless of course, you have a view from the indoors).

TIP: For picture purposes, you can consult with your photographer to see if they’d be open to capturing a few photos outside (ie: taking you outdoors for “sunset pictures” when dinner begins)...or have your ceremony and/or cocktails outdoors.

PC: Jon Mozo Photography

PC: Jon Mozo Photography

PC: Keoni Michael

PC: Keoni Michael

Outdoor (PRO):

  • From bright sunshine and blue skies to priceless sunsets and nice island breezes, being outdoors is very refreshing for those who enjoy.

Outdoor (CON):

  • Besides the chance of rain (that can come in horizontally), bugs, gusts of wind (which could affect your decor), and the blazing sun, Mother Nature might also trigger allergies if you or your guests have any. Unlike food allergies, where you can just avoid consuming the items you’re allergic to, you can’t remove the allergens and pollens from the air.  

TIP: Taking Benadryl and consuming alcohol may not be the best idea. We recommend lots of tissues and staying hydrated if you choose to host your wedding outdoors.

NOTE: Although many hotels DO have outdoor reception options, we’d like to let you know that A Perfect Day currently only plans and coordinates weddings at hotels, resorts, and country clubs so if you would like a recommendation for a planner who specializes in an estate, or ranch wedding, please ask us for a free recommendation!

Happy Planning!

XOXO A Perfect Day

5 Reasons to have an Intimate Vow Renewal In Hawaii

GUEST BLOG BY DIANA MOORE OF HAWAII VISTA WEDDINGS

Why have a vow renewal in Hawaii?  You did the big wedding with 500 of your closest friends and family. Probably at a location that was easy for everyone to get to. Your kids are asking you who the people in the pictures are and you have no idea. Years later,  it’s a great time to celebrate with the ones that really mean the most to you at a location that is made for weddings….Hawaii. Didn’t have much money when you first got married? Now you can  have your dream wedding that you always wanted or recreate the one that you loved  the first time. There are many reasons to have a vow renewal. Here are 5 of them .

Romantic Gesture

After so many years of marriage, why not let the one you love feel the way he or she did when you first were married.  Years have passed, and children come into the picture. The romance fades or is gone completely. You have both worked so hard to provide a home for yourselves, cleaned and cooked, picked up the kids from school everyday. The list goes on and life becomes one long day of mundane tasks. When you first were married, you could only imagine what life would be like raising a family together. It’s not always how you imagined.  So you deserve to treat each other right. There was a reason that you first wanted to get married so find that spark again. Watching your beautiful partner walk down the aisle to you again, can be a powerful reminder of why you got married in the first place. Nothing is more romantic than a vacation to Hawaii and saying “I do” again.

Milestone Wedding Date

A Milestone wedding  is a significant and important year in one's marriage that's bigger, or more noteworthy than other years.   10 years, 25 years, 50 years. You made it to that big date so why not celebrate?  We need to congratulate ourselves sometimes for making it to a milestone date. No one said marriage is easy, so feel free to give yourselves a “reward”. You can even have one every ten years. Knowing that you will have one every ten years can help you look forward to growing older with your spouse and have things to look forward to at any stage in your life.

Have the wedding of your dreams

Years ago, you may not have had a lot of money or there was a big storm on your wedding so you couldn’t get the pictures that you wanted. Maybe you were so young and just wanted to make everyone else happy by having THEIR dream wedding. Now that you are older and may have more money, have the wedding that you actually wanted. There’s no pressure from family and friends anymore about what you should or shouldn’t do so do it your way! Did you have your wedding at a church but now you love the mountains or the beach? When you have your wedding in Hawaii, it doubles as a second honeymoon as well. If you had kids after you were married, they can now be a part of your wedding so make it the family vacation of a lifetime. Hire a photographer or Videographer to recreate pictures from your first wedding. How wonderful to have pictures of the two of you before and after.

Back together after tough times

There may be some signs that your marriage could use a vow renewal. Everyone knows that these past couple of years have been tough for everyone. So we are all sympathetic about going through tough times.  Whether  it’s the passing of a loved one, having to  relocate to a new job, or now the kids are off to college,  this is a good opportunity to do something positive and start over with a new outlook on life. Now you know that you can make it through tough times, so come together again and remember the  good times.You may realize that time can heal and life can get better when you remember what you once had.

Why not?

Do you really need a reason to celebrate your marriage? Maybe you just want a party and have an excuse to do so. Why not? You don’t need a special reason to have a vow renewal. If you were planning a trip to Hawaii anyway, it could be a nice surprise for your spouse. If you hire a wedding planner, they can help  coordinate things for you and make it a surprise. Get a new ring and have an officiant to make it feel extra special. If you are having a party and may already be spending a lot of money on a venue, food, hair and makeup flowers etc., make it extra special and renew your vows too. Life is too short to not celebrate life and love.

https://youtu.be/ZH7TVo-kzwY


XOXOXO

Happy Planning!

(A Perfect Day)

Private Indoor Hawaii Wedding or Fresh Outdoor Hawaii Wedding? (Part 1 of 5)

Weddings are one of the most special moments in the lives of a couple. In Hawaii, an outdoor wedding may have fresh air and breathtaking views, but an indoor wedding will have air conditioning and allow your event to continue later in the evening. There are both advantages and disadvantages to choosing an indoor or outdoor wedding. The tug of war between indoor events and outdoor events in Hawaii might be a bit tough because there are so many options so we created this blog post to get you started. As there are many other things to consider, feel free to follow us on Instagram or just follow our hashtag #APDblog to be notified of future posts as we discuss this topic.

Indoor (PRO):

  • Convenient access to restrooms, you can control your guest count (not having to worry about the cost of having to invite “everyone”), less coordination/planning is usually required as fewer vendors are needed. 

Indoor (CON):

  • Depending on which venue you choose, their maximum capacity might hinder you from inviting everyone on your guest list. 

TIP: If you already know that your final guest count would exceed every venue’s max cap., you may want to consider an outdoor wedding or reducing your guest count.

 
PC: Derek Wong Photography

PC: Derek Wong Photography

Happy Planning!

 

PC: Keoni Michael

 

Outdoor (PRO):

  • Lots and lots of SPACE! Kids can run around freely, you can space out your tables and chairs so your guests can mingle, and you can invite as many guests as your heart’s desire.

Outdoor (CON):

  • Some outdoor venues might have limited parking spaces (especially if you have a really large guest list).  It can also be harder to control/limit your guest list as there is enough space to fit everyone.

TIP: Check with the venue to see if they offer an alternative parking solution or maybe hire a valet.

NOTE: Although many hotels DO have outdoor reception options, we’d like to let you know that A Perfect Day currently only plans and coordinates weddings at hotels, resorts, and country clubs so if you would like a recommendation for a planner who specializes in an estate, or ranch wedding, please ask us for a free recommendation!

Happy Planning!

XOXO A Perfect Day

CONGRATULATIONS KIMBERLY & JOE <3

In early November of 2021 Kimberly & Joe tied the knot at the gorgeous Kahala Hotel & Resort on the east side of the island of O’ahu. The day was filled with stunning florals, and beautiful smiles, as the lovely couple vowed to spend the rest of their lives together!

Their wedding day began with the bride and groom getting ready in their seprate hotel rooms, as the couple chose not to see each other prior to the ceremony. It was a busy morning as Heather and her team from Delish Makeup got Kimberly and her bridesmaids all dolled up for the big day while Christie of Christie Pham Photography and the married duo Amber & Mike of Agalia Films captured all of the sweet getting ready moments!

Now that both Kimberly, Joe, and their wedding party were all dressed and ready, it was time to start the ceremony! The wonderful musicians from Kika, Inc. began playing Hawaiian contemporary songs as the guests found their seats, Joe and his groosmen walked up to the alter, and the bridesmaids began leading the way for Kimberly to make her grand entrance. The bride was truly a vision in white as she made her way down the aisle, her royal veil adorned beautifully over her face and floating in the light tradewinds. It really was a beautiful day in Hawai’i nei as Kimberly and Joe exchanged their vows in front of their families and friends.

While the new Mr. & Mrs. took photos around the Kahala property, their guests enjoyed cocktail hour, and the reception area was getting it’s final touches! The florals created by Florist Grand were breathtaking in both the ceremony and reception space, as well as in Kimberly’s hair and bouquet! The combination of the florals and beauitful linens provided by the Wedding Linen Company perfectly decorated the Kahala O Ke Kai room.

At 6:00pm the reception doors opened and the newlyweds celebrated the happy occasion with their family and friends for the rest of the night! We are soooo honored to have been able to help Kimberly and Joe have the wedding day of their dreams, and wish them a long and happy marriage! <3

Wedding Video Highlight by Agalia Films

Creating Your Wedding Planning Timeline

The BIG question has been answered, a beautiful ring is on display, and now you can call your best friend your fiance. CONGRATULATIONS on your engagement!! 

Though we hope all of our newly engaged couples can celebrate this wonderful moment in their lives, we also know that stress can quickly start overwhelming the soon-to-be newlyweds as questions of the big day arise and the planning begins. 

Photography: Kai Photo

A Perfect Day LLC, was created with the goal of helping every couple achieve peace of mind through planning and organization. That is why we have created numerous resources to assist couples with planning their dream wedding! 

Today’s blog will focus on helping couples to create their wedding planning timeline. Not to be confused with the wedding DAY timeline, the wedding planning timeline does not focus on the day of the wedding but instead on all of the things that have to be done in the time leading up to the big day! This timeline is extremely important as it will ensure that everything is organized and thought out so for the days before, and especially on your wedding you will be able to relax and truly enjoy the occasion!

Venue: Hawaii Vista Weddings | Photography: Michele C Photo

Things to Consider When Creating Your Wedding Planning Timeline

The Length of Your Engagement

Having an idea of how long your engagement will be prior to your wedding will allow you to estimate how much time you will have to plan your wedding! As the average engagement is between 12-18 months, couples who are engaged longer than this period may be able to take their time when selecting vendors and making decisions, while couples who are engaged for less than this period may have to have a planning timeline that’s a bit more jam packed. 

We recommend that couples should secure all of their vendors by at least 4 months prior to their wedding as this will allow them to focus on finalizing details, create their wedding day timeline, and purchase supplies for their big day between 1-4 months prior to the wedding. Depending on the length of your engagement and the number of vendors you choose to have at your wedding will determine the planning timeline. 

  • For example if you are planning your wedding 12 months out, and want to hire 16 vendors by 4 months out, you’ll have 8 months to secure your desired vendors. With this in mind we recommend setting a goal of hiring 2 vendors a month or 1 vendor every two weeks. 

Setting goals will greatly help you with the organization of your wedding planning timeline as it will create achievable milestones along the journey. With the goals in place you’ll be able to clearly see the exact task that will be taken care of and when it will need to be completed by. 


Wedding Budget

It may surprise you but the budget of your wedding will actually play a role in affecting your wedding planning timeline. This is because the timing of which vendors to book will be determined by their priority in your budget. As typically the higher priority the vendor is the greater amount of money is allocated to it in your budget, you’ll want to book your vendor in the order of highest priority to lowest priority. Due to that, we highly recommend that you establish your budget prior to creating this timeline. If you haven’t made your budget yet, not to worry! We have created a series of blogs & videos focused on wedding budgeting! 

  1. Top 5 Decisions That Will Affect Your Budget

  2. How to Create Your Ideal Wedding Budget in 3 Steps

  3. 3 Ways to Stay in Control of Your Wedding Budget

With your wedding budget established you are ready to move on to creating your wedding planning timeline! 

How to Get a Custom Wedding Planning Timeline

Many couples initially reach out to us not knowing what to do first, what order to do things in, or even how much help they need. We have created a new service to create a custom and personalized planning timeline just for you along with helpful tips and guidance from almost 20 years of planing weddings! We will discuss what your actual needs and wants are, what type of vendors, services, and products you are looking for, and at the end, we will be provide you with a digital solid plan that is easy to follow so you can check it off every step of the way. We will take into account your priorities and concerns the entire time. While everyone is busy these days, we feel that our custom personalized plan can get you off on the right foot to planning your wedding successfully and having fun doing it! To find out more, contact Kelly at Kelly@APerfectDayHawaii.com.

As it’s our mission to help you have a wedding planning process that’s as stress-free as possible, we hope you will allow us to help you enjoy the planning process from the very beginning!

XOXOXO

Happy Planning!

(A Perfect Day)

The Banzai Toast. What is it and how is it done.

The Banzai toast is very common in local Japanese weddings. Before we go into depth how it happens during a wedding, we feel a responsibility to also explain that there are multiple translations and it is important to understand all of them to help determine if this is something you really want to do. Here are some translations:

  • The word Banzai has been and can be used as a sort of “battle cry”. An example for this is the belief that Japanese military who bombed Pear Harbor yelled Banzai as they bombed Hawaii. For this reason, some Japanese to this day feel it is in poor taste to participate in a Banzai toast. As a backup option, the word Banzai has recently been changed to use Kampai instead. Kampai means “Empty the cup/glass” so it may not hold the same meaning as Banzai but can help to avoid unintentionally disrespecting anyone.

  • The word Banzai has been used as a way to greet the Japanese Emperor. For this reason, some may feel that it is disrespectful to use it when not addressing the Emperor.

  • The word Banzai is also believed to mean 10,000 years of life. This is the reason why it has become so popular during Japanese local weddings. When doing the Banzai toast, it is done, it is most commonly done twice as the guests first wish the Bride & Groom 10,000 years of life and the second is from the family to all of the guests wishing them 10,000 years of life. Here is how it works: Each person who leads a toast will request all guests to stand (if able) and each will first chant a few words ending with “Banzai” repeated 3 times (each louder than the last). Guests should always be instructed and encouraged to follow and chant “Banzai” (in unison) after each time the speech giver does. After everyone has chanted “Banzai” 3 times, everyone should take a sip of a beverage (traditionally sake). As guests should copy & take a sip at the end, instructions should be given in advanced to the toast starting.

  • The verbiage used is:

    • 1st Toast (to the Bride & Groom): "Shinro shimpu, banzai! (pause for guests to chant “banzai!”), Banzai!! (pause for guests to chant “Banza!!”), BANZAI!!! (pause for guests to chant “BANZAI!!!”)

    • 2nd Toast (to the guests): “Raihin shokun, banzai!" (pause for guests to chant “banzai!”), Banzai!! (pause for guests to chant “Banza!!”), BANZAI!!! (pause for guests to chant “BANZAI!!!”)

      • A more polite version of the 2nd Toast is to say: “Raihin no minasama, banzai!" (pause for guests to chant “banzai!”), Banzai!! (pause for guests to chant “Banza!!”), BANZAI!!! (pause for guests to chant “BANZAI!!!”)

  • One last thing to keep in mind is that the “Banzai toast” is really only something “local” Japanese weddings tend to incorporate. If you were in Japan, they would not be familiar with this activity so like with all traditions and customs, it is important to determine if this is something that makes sense for you to do.

    Here is a video that will give you a glimpse of how a Banzai toast is executed.

Happy Planning!

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