How can I reserve a date for my wedding?
To make a reservation, we ask that you make a $100 deposit toward the overall cost of your ceremony. On our website’s Contact page is a yellow ‘Buy Now’ icon. By clicking on that you can make a secure credit card or PayPal payment to our PayPal account. We’ll follow up with a receipt and an invoice once a plan is in place. Also, keep in mind that a weekday wedding day is always better than the weekend as there are fewer people at the beaches and parks.
When should we consider arriving in Hawaii?
It’s a good idea to arrive two days before your wedding day. You will have been traveling all day. Take that time to check-in, get some rest, and get acclimated to the Aloha State. If you have time and the energy you could also take care of your marriage license meeting at the Department of Health. Otherwise, on the following day, plan on going to the Department of Health at 1250 Punchbowl Street in downtown Honolulu.
What happens if it rains?
In case of light rain, we typically wait until it stops. Usually in Hawaii when it rains it’s just a passing shower. In case of heavy rain, we may have to see about changing location or time of day. In some cases, we may need to change the date. We’ll do our best to accommodate you though.
How can we get a marriage license in Hawaii?
Obtaining a marriage license in Hawaii is a fairly simple process.
Couples getting legally married in Hawaii can begin the process by following 3 easy steps:
Step 1) Begin by filling out a marriage license worksheet online. Payment of $65 to the State of Hawaii should be made at the time you apply online. Your application is good for 1 full year from the date it is submitted online. To begin the application, go to http://health.hawaii.gov/vitalrecords/marriage-licenses/
Step 2) Meet with a Licensing Agent at the State of Hawaii Department of Health, 1250 Punchbowl Street Honolulu, HI. Both Bride & Groom need to be present and have photo identification like a passport or driver’s license. Hours are 8:00am – 3:30pm Monday through Friday. If time is short or you need to meet with a marriage license agent on the weekend or after normal business hours, please contact the License Office at 808-586-4544.
Step 3) Bring your Marriage License Worksheet with you to your ceremony. You both have to sign it together with your officiant. They will take it after the ceremony and e-file it later that day online. For all inquiries about the marriage license process, please call the State of Hawaii Department of Health, Marriage License Office at 808-586-4544. They are very helpful. Mahalo.
Can I make changes to my wedding package plan?
Yes. It’s perfectly fine to make any changes to your wedding plan. We’ll work with you to customize your wedding plan to suit all of your desires. We’ll do our best to help you with our wedding packages or put a wedding plan together a la carte.
Can I hire my own photographer, videographer, or limousine?
Sorry, we do not allow outside vendors other than our own. We have a team of professionals that already provide the best photography, videography, and limousine services. They already know the wedding procedure. They all work together, and also take great care about lighting, positioning, etc. You are welcome to livestream your wedding. But you will have to set that up beforehand. Also, you are allowed to use your own minister if you like. We can deduct $50 from your Package Plan. You will receive a link to download your photos approximately 3-4 weeks after your ceremony. Waiting several weeks is pretty normal for wedding photography. Once you receive your photos, feel free to share them with family and friends or make prints of your favorite photos.
How long is the ceremony?
The ceremony is less than 15 minutes. It typically starts with the Hawaiian Wedding Song. For your vows, you are welcome to use your own if you like. The vows we use are traditional in style. Soon after your ceremony, we’ll sign your marriage license. From then if there is a professional photographer, they will take over for the remainder of the time. They typically start with a group photo of everyone, followed by lots of photos of just the two of you. Share with them any ideas you may have. Keep in mind there is a limit of 30 guests for weddings at public beaches and parks in Hawaii. For more than 30 guests, please inquire with us.
Do you offer any special hotel rates?
Yes. We have partnered with all of the Aston and Aqua Hotels. With our promotion code, you can receive a 15% discount off on room rates. Just type in ISLANDER for your unique promotional code.
How should I dress and prepare for my wedding in Hawaii?
All you really need to bring is your marriage license paper. Oh, and don’t forget your rings! Dress comfortably. Men will be fine with either khaki pants or shorts and a white shirt or aloha shirt. There’s no need for dress shoes. Brides should consider wearing a simple dress that is easy to walk in. In most locations you’ll be walking over sand, so comfortable footwear like sandals work just fine. We can also forward a list of hair and make-up artists if you wish. Bring cold drinks if you like. Also, sunscreen, sunglasses, and straw hats should be considered. Early morning or late afternoons are the best time of day. It’s not as hot as midday and colors are better for those magical photos.
