Big Island Wedding Bliss: A Guide To Tying The Knot In Paradise

Planning a wedding on the Big Island of Hawaii? You're in luck! The Big Island offers some of the world's most picturesque outdoor wedding locations, from iconic white sand beaches to secluded coves and lush greenery. With its stunning natural backdrop, your special day is sure to be magical.

One of the benefits of choosing the Big Island for your destination wedding is the ease of the process. Hawaii's laid-back vibe and the true spirit of Aloha make it a stress-free choice. Plus, as a US location, there's no complicated paperwork or unfamiliar territory when obtaining a marriage license.

Whether you're looking for an intimate ceremony on a quiet beach or a large celebration at a historic estate, the Big Island has something for everyone. Popular beach wedding locations include Mauna Kea Beach, Kukio Beach, and the Kona Sea Salt Farm. For a more unique setting, consider the Old Kona Airport, which offers a dramatic view for your wedding photos, or the Secret Waterfall, accessible only by helicopter.

So, start planning your dream wedding on the Big Island, where you can create unforgettable memories against the backdrop of Hawaii's exquisite landscapes.

Choosing a wedding planner

Planning a wedding can be a stressful task, especially if you're planning a destination wedding in a place you're unfamiliar with. Hiring a wedding planner can help you create a stress-free and enjoyable experience for your special day. Here are some tips for choosing a wedding planner for your Big Island wedding:

• Local Expertise: Look for planners who are based in the Big Island and have extensive knowledge of the local area. They should be able to suggest unique and hidden gems for your wedding venue, including pristine white sand beaches, stunning lava rock shores, and secluded locations. Local planners will also have established connections with trusted local vendors, ensuring a smoother planning process.
• Customization and Flexibility: Choose a planner who understands your vision and is willing to work with you to create a customized wedding experience. Whether you dream of an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, they should be able to tailor their services to match your specific needs and budget. Look for planners who offer flexible packages and are open to customization.
• Experience and Expertise: Opt for planners with years of experience in the wedding industry, specifically in planning and executing weddings on the Big Island. Read through their client testimonials and reviews to get a sense of their work ethic, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills. An experienced planner will handle all the details, from selecting the perfect venue to coordinating with vendors, allowing you to relax and enjoy your special day.
• Range of Services: Consider what specific services you require from your wedding planner. Some planners offer comprehensive packages that include event design, venue selection, timeline management, vendor coordination, and day-of execution. Others may specialize in certain areas, such as floral arrangements, photography, or catering. Choose a planner whose services align with your priorities and specific needs.
• Communication and Rapport: Effective communication is key when working with a wedding planner. Choose someone with whom you feel comfortable sharing your vision and who understands your expectations. They should be responsive, provide timely updates, and be transparent about any adjustments or issues that may arise. A good rapport with your planner will ensure a smoother planning process and a more personalized experience.
• Value for Money: Discuss pricing and payment terms upfront to ensure there are no surprises. Compare the prices and services offered by different planners to find the best value for your budget. Remember that the cheapest option may not always be the best, and investing in a skilled wedding planner can save you money in the long run by avoiding costly mistakes.

• Pink Pineapple Weddings: Specializes in destination weddings and elopements, with over 500 weddings planned. They offer all-inclusive packages and can also customize based on your specific needs.
• Sunshower Weddings: A team of event planners based in Kona, specializing in creating personalized and sustainable weddings. They respect your budget while delivering a memorable "wow" factor.
• Beach Glass Weddings: A team of professionals with experience in planning and executing exquisitely designed wedding ceremonies. They offer custom destination wedding packages and welcome couples from all backgrounds.
• Simple Hawaii Wedding: With over 12 years of wedding planning experience in Hawaii, they specialize in beach and venue ceremonies for small weddings, elopements, and vow renewals. They offer easy-to-book packages, premium quality services, and top-notch customer service.

Selecting an officiant

Consider the Type of Officiant and Ceremony You Want:

Firstly, decide on the type of ceremony you want, as this will influence your choice of officiant. There are several options to choose from:

• Religious: If you are a member of a church, synagogue, or religious organization, you may want a pastor, priest, rabbi, or minister to perform the ceremony. These ceremonies are usually more traditional and follow the customs of that religious organization.
• Interfaith: This option allows you to have a spiritual ceremony, especially if you and your spouse-to-be have different faith backgrounds. Interfaith ministers can offer a more personalized ceremony.
• Secular: Secular officiants provide a lot of flexibility. You can include religious aspects or make it entirely non-religious. They are certified to perform legally valid weddings.
• Civil: Judges, justices of the peace, and magistrates can perform ceremonies at courthouses or other locations. Contact your local county clerk's office for a list of available officials.

Meet with Potential Officiants:

It is important to meet with potential officiants to ensure they are the right fit for your ceremony and share your perspective on marriage. Schedule in-person meetings or in-depth phone conversations to discuss their approach and your expectations. Ask about their experience, comfort with public speaking, and willingness to personalize the ceremony.

Treat Them Like Any Other Vendor:

Ask for recommendations, reviews, and referrals from friends and family. Don't be afraid to request testimonials and videos of previous ceremonies they've performed. You can also attend a ceremony they are officiating to observe their style and tone. Remember to do your research thoroughly, just as you would for any other wedding vendor.

Ensure They Are Recognized by the State:

Before making your final decision, confirm that your chosen officiant is officially recognized and certified in your state and county. Also, clarify their official duties, including submitting the marriage license to the local clerk's office for filing.

Put Everything in Writing:

Once you've selected your officiant, put all the details in writing, just as you would with other vendors. This includes payment details, duties (rehearsal, ceremony timing, etc.), specifics of the ceremony (vows, readings, etc.), and any other relevant information.

Find Someone You Feel Comfortable With:

Ultimately, you want to find an officiant who makes you feel comfortable and at ease. Seek someone who is caring, willing to get to know you, and committed to providing a ceremonial experience that aligns with your vision.

Getting a marriage license

Step 1: Complete the Online Application

To begin, you must fill out the online application form, which can be found at https://marriage.ehawaii.gov. The application fee is $65, plus a potential additional $5 processing fee. The online application is valid for up to one year from the issue date, but the paper license you receive upon arrival in Hawaii is only valid for 30 days.

Step 2: Schedule a Meeting with a Marriage License Agent

After completing the online application, you will need to schedule an appointment with a marriage license agent. This meeting can be done via a Zoom call, and it is important to be punctual. You will need to bring the receipt from your online application form, a valid form of photo identification (such as a driver's license or passport), and the $5 processing fee.

Step 3: Finalise Paperwork and Receive Your License

During your meeting with the marriage license agent, they will finalise the necessary paperwork. If you have been divorced within the past 30 days, you will also need to provide your divorce decree. After finalising the paperwork, you will receive your marriage license.

Step 4: Use Your License Within 30 Days

Your marriage license is only valid for 30 days from the date it is issued. Therefore, you must ensure your wedding ceremony takes place within this timeframe.

Additional Information:

• You do not need to be a Hawaii resident or a U.S. citizen to obtain a marriage license in Hawaii.
• There is no waiting period for marriage licenses in Hawaii, so you can get married as soon as you receive your license.
• The minimum age for marriage in Hawaii is 18 years old, and no blood test is required.
• Self-solemnization, or officiating your own wedding, is not permitted in Hawaii. You must hire an officiant or have a friend/loved one get ordained online.

Picking a venue

Location and Scenery

The Big Island offers a diverse range of natural wonders, from pristine beaches to lush rainforests, snow-capped mountains, and even active volcanoes. Consider the type of scenery you want as your backdrop. Do you envision a beach ceremony with ocean views, or would you prefer a venue surrounded by nature, like a hillside garden or a waterfall?

Venue Type

The island has a variety of venue types to choose from, including resorts, hotels, botanical gardens, parks, and even a coffee farm. If you're looking for a more unique setting, you might opt for a historic site like the Anna Ranch Heritage Center, which offers a glimpse of Old Hawaii, or a royal residence like the Hulihe'e Palace.

Size and Capacity

Consider the size of your guest list and choose a venue that can comfortably accommodate your group. Some venues offer multiple event spaces to choose from, ranging from intimate settings for small weddings to large ballrooms or outdoor areas that can host up to 1,000 guests.

Services and Packages

Many venues on the Big Island offer all-inclusive wedding packages, which can include services like wedding coordination, catering, floral design, entertainment, photography, and videography. These packages can often be customised to suit your specific needs and budget.

Accommodation

If you're planning a destination wedding or have guests travelling from out of town, consider venues that offer on-site accommodation, such as resorts or hotels. This can make the experience more convenient and enjoyable for you and your guests, allowing everyone to relax and celebrate without the hassle of transportation.

Popular Venues

Some popular wedding venues on the Big Island include:

• The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii: This luxury resort in Waimea offers six event spaces, including a breathtaking beach, waterfall gardens, and spacious lawns.
• Royal Kona Resort: Featuring a secluded lagoon with turquoise waters and lush surroundings, this venue is perfect for small weddings and elopements. They also offer larger event spaces for bigger ceremonies.
• Daylight Mind Events: For coffee enthusiasts, this coffee company within the Kona coffee belt provides a waterfront area for ceremonies and a wraparound lanai with picturesque views for receptions.
• Anna Ranch Heritage Center: Nestled in the hillside of Waimea, this historic ranch offers amazing views of the Kohala Mountains and multiple event spaces, including green lawns, an orange tree grove, and an indoor banquet hall.
• King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel: With over 20 event spaces, this venue offers a range of options, from ballrooms to tropical gardens, and is located in the popular area of Kailua-Kona.
• Sunshower Farms: This family-owned, eco-friendly coffee farm in Holualoa offers a bespoke wedding experience, with seasonal farm-to-table cuisine and optional Hawaiian experiences like lei making and hula dancers.
• Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay: A full-service wedding venue with event planning, upscale accommodations, spa services, and incredible waterfront views.

Remember to ask your venue of choice all the important questions and get the details in writing. Congratulations on your upcoming wedding, and may your special day be everything you've dreamed of!

Planning a honeymoon

Choose Your Accommodation:

The Big Island offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. For a luxurious and intimate experience, consider resorts like the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, or the Volcano Mist Cottage, nestled in the rainforest. If you're looking for a charming and relaxing option, the Holua Resort at Mauna Loa Village is a great choice, surrounded by bays and palm trees.

Explore the Island's Natural Wonders:

The island boasts a diverse landscape, from rugged coastlines to tropical rainforests and volcanoes. Adventure-seeking couples can hike to the Green Sand Beach, located inside an eroded volcanic crater, or explore the Waipio Valley, once home to Hawaiian royalty, with its wild beauty and waterfalls. Don't miss the Akaka Falls State Park, where you can witness the majestic Akaka Falls and the picturesque Kahuna Falls.

Romantic Activities and Experiences:

The Big Island offers countless romantic experiences. Stroll along secluded beaches like Waialea Bay, enjoy panoramic views from the Pololu Valley Lookout, or take a sunset cruise on a catamaran. For a unique experience, go night swimming with manta rays, or book a private helicopter tour to see the island's dramatic scenery from above.

Indulge in Spa Treatments:

Hawaii's Big Island is known for its world-class spas, offering treatments that incorporate local ingredients and traditions. Treat yourself and your partner to a traditional Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage at the Fairmont Orchid's "Spa Without Walls," with the soothing sounds of crashing waves in the background.

Discover the Island's Cuisine:

Explore the island's culinary delights, including fresh seafood, local farmers' markets, and traditional Hawaiian cuisine. Try poke at Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill, and don't miss the shaved ice at Kat's Kau Kau.

Consider a Honeymoon Package:

Many hotels and tour groups on the Big Island cater specifically to honeymooners, offering packages that include itineraries, luxury stays, and activities tailored for couples. You can also create your own custom package using services like TripAdvisor and Viator.

With its mix of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and luxurious amenities, the Big Island of Hawaii is a perfect destination for a romantic and memorable honeymoon.

Frequently asked questions