About Hawaii Wedding Websites
Hawaii destination weddings have evolved from small, primary-vendor driven websites to big business websites. Each has it's place in the market and it depends which you're most comfortable with. We are a vendor driven website.
Awards & Banners:
Impressive right? The truth is, simple pay the advertising and website listing and get an "award". In 2020 Hawaii was shutdown from the end of March to October 2020 because of COVID an still an award? LOL.
Packages:
It's easy to get confused with too much info. Yes, we guess we're guilty too LOL. In a package, all most couples need is a qualified and licensed minister or officiate and a competent photographer. Everything else is a "want". If you see something on one website but, not on another, just ask. Finally, always remember, just as a higher price doesn't mean higher quality, getting more stuff or free stuff doesn't necessarily mean a better deal.
Free Stuff:
Free stuff is enticing but, it usually comes at a price. Free cake with no cutting ceremony, shell lei that's brittle and just a dollar or two in the shops, etc.. Never book a package just because of "free" stuff.
Ministers:
Many of the top ministers work with multiple websites so, you may see the same minister in photos on different websites. With that said, websites often differ on what's expected and maybe this is obvious but, ministers vary greatly on how they perform their services.
Photographers:
Bigger websites who have a huge overhead must do multiple wedding a day and consequently, require a stable of photographers. Nothing wrong with that, it's just that you won't know who's gonna shoot your event or if what you see on the website is what you'll actually receive.
Videographers:
Professional video cameras , computer, editing software, etc. are costly and complicated so, it's going to cost more for a true professional. Select a professional videographer if you want an edited multi-camera edited video. If you just want a video and sound, mobile phones do a pretty good job if used with remote mics.
Musicians:
Good voice, musicianship, and a presentable appearance is all that's required. There's quite a few good musicians. Importantly, you want a musician who understands how beach weddings work and knows what songs are appropriate.
Hair & Make-Up:
You can have the artist come to your hotel room or visit their salon if close to Waikiki. Your hotel or a hotel nearby may offer this service though, they are usually more costly. You want someone who has experience with outdoor beach weddings and knows the styles that work in open air conditions.
Transportation:
Nothing like riding in a limo. Dedicated wedding limousine service usually requires a 2 hour minimum. Nowadays, couples find it more economical to drive a car rental or use Uber, Lyft, or a taxi service.
Lei, Bouquet, Hair Flowers:
Website lei prices will include ordering, pick-up, and delivery to the ceremony either per unit of a flat fee. Or you can select and purchase lei yourself. Some stores have even more selection than a traditional lei shop.
We offer simple bouquet good for beach weddings. If you're looking for a more fancy or custom bouquet, consider a custom florist. Ask the website for a referral or if they can get it for you.
For hair flowers, we suggest considering artificial flowers. You'll find a good selection in Waikiki shops.
Site Set-Ups:
Site set-ups create a "sense of place" when out in the open. The DNLR permit allows for very simple floral set-ups. City parks with a permit allow for chair and arch set-ups. We believe this sort of set-up in a public space has never made sense given the additional expense. For couple desiring a set-up, we suggest using a private venue or hotel setting.
