Hawaii Weddings

Hawaii Wedding Tips

Don't wear pantyhose to a beach wedding
Sand will get caught in them and cause runs.

Bring Water
It's hot in Hawaii, and guests will need something to drink if they are going to be in the sun all day so they don't pass out in the middle of the ceremony. You and your guests will appreciate this thoughtful gesture.

Bring an Umbrella
It rains everyday in Hawaii and an umbrella can be the difference between saying "I DO" and running for cover. It is also a great source of shade on a hot Hawaiian day.

Don't wear an over the face veil to a beach wedding
The wind will blow it off your face or worse, press it completely against your face. Either way, it's not recommended.

Wear Undergarments
I am embarrassed that I must address this but believe it or not, this has been an ongoing problem.
Ladies who don't want a panty line showing will often forgo undergarments. The problem arises during photographs when you are asked to do a dip, kick or the groom picks up the bride.
Also during the "garter" and when stepping in and out of a large limousine. 
PLEASE, wear undergarments.

Have veil clips
A veil clip is a small clip or pin that you can use to pin the veil to the back of the wedding dress during the ceremony. This will ensure no "Fly Away" veils during the ceremony so that you get good photographs.

Unity Candles
Unity candles won't stay lit on a beach due to the wind. Instead try "Unity Sand".

Bring Lots of Tissues
For both crying and sweating. If it's a hot day, tissues will be a life saver.

Always Look at the Most Expensive Camera
Everyone is taking photographs but only one of them is costing you and arm and a leg, and is sure to produce great photos. Focus on the professional photographer, and not the guest's cameras. You'll be glad you did.

Bring an Emergency Beauty Supply Kit
Hair brush, hair spray, matching hair clip, nail polish remover, liquid powder (no loose powder), lip stick, extra shoes, tide stick and instant clothing stain remover. Hopefully you won't need any of these, but if you do, you will be glad you brought them!

Avoid Facials Before the Wedding
A good facial forces all of your pores to purge impurities which may cause pimples. If you get a facial within 3 days of your wedding you are risking a breakout for your wedding day. If you are looking for a way to pamper yourself, try a massage instead.

Avoid Sunbathing Before the Wedding
Countless times, a bride has worn a beautiful strapless dress only to expose the tan lines from the tank top or swim suit she wore the day before. Also, numerous brides have arrived with completely red faces from being sunburned. The sunburned faces and tan tine lines will be in all of your wedding photographs forever. Avoid the urge to get sun before the wedding. You'll be glad you did.

Don't Be Late!
Just because you're on vacation doesn't mean that the minister, coordinator or photographers are. They are dedicating a set amount of time for you regardless if you are there or not. Please don't assume that they will be available to stay late because chances are they can't, and if they do stay later it will cost you extra.

Be Prepared for Traffic
On the mainland the common understanding is if it's 60 miles it takes about 60 minutes to get there. This rule doesn't apply to Hawaii. It takes an hour, or an hour and a half during rush hour, to get from Waikiki to the North Shore, yet they are only 25 miles apart. 
To determine how long it will take to get somewhere, simply multiple the amount of miles by two and you're pretty close. If you are traveling during rush hour, then multiple by three. Remember, don't be late!

Check Out the Location Before the Wedding
Drive around the island before the wedding. Look at the beach you are getting married at and look at other beaches. If you don't like the beach, or found another one you like better, you may be able to switch locations. At the very least, it will ensure that you won't get lost on your wedding day.

Get to the Department of Health Early
To avoid lines, go early! You probably don't want to waste part of your vacation sitting in an office building waiting for your number to be called, so get up and go first thing in the morning.

Relax!
You're in Hawaii and getting married, so don't fret, panic or sweat. Grab the one you love by one hand, put a mai tai in the other hand, and go stroll along the beach! Enjoy yourself!