Christine and James get Maui’d
When James and Christine vacationed together for the first time nearly nine years ago, they chose Hawaii as their romantic destination. It was on this trip that James got down on one knee on Lanikai Beach, and the rest is history! It was obvious that the sharing of their most special day with their family and friends would surely bring them back to Hawaii’s shores.
All the gorgeous photos were captured by Megan Moura and coordinated and styled by Tropical Maui Weddings. You can see all the photos in the full gallery here.
From initial preparations such as stationery by Miss B. Calligraphy, to an incredibly gorgeous and sentimental ceremony, and throughout the evening festivities, the day was simply perfect! Christine was oh so stunning in her classic strapless Allure white wedding gown and hair and makeup by Meili Autumn Beauty. James looked pretty darn good too, but, as we know….. it’s all about the bride!
However, when James first viewed his dream bride, there seemed to be something in his eyes. It could possibly be the sun, however, my guess it is the gorgeous vision his eyes rested on, of his best friend, soul mate, enduring love partner, and all his endearing adoration for her that elevated him to another level. Eight Count Edits was there to capture all this beauty on film.
From the bride Christine
Hawaii holds a special place in our hearts. It’s the first big trip we took together as a couple when we started dating 8 years ago. James also proposed to me in Oahu in Lanikai Beach, so it was a no brainer that we had to have our wedding in Hawaii, a place that we love, with those we love most.
Olowalu Plantation House was recommended by James’ sister, Karen. Once we visited the venue, we immediately fell in love and it had everything we were looking for: overlooking the ocean, intimate, private and breathtaking views.
Wedding Venue
Olowalu Plantation House, the indescribably gorgeous tropical oceanfront venue, provided privacy and the perfect backdrop for their “best day ever.” This grand historic plantation-style home completed their vision of Hawaiian old-world charm. Bouquet florals included garden roses in white and blush, anemone, eucalyptus, and wildflowers by Feather & Fern Maui. Other florals accentuated tropical elegance with an array of greenery complemented with blush and white.
Filipino Wedding Ceremony
The family provided the traditional ceremonies of the Veil, Cord, and Coins. The Veil symbolizes the oneness of marriage, the Cord symbolizes the unbreakable bond of marriage, and the Coins symbolizes their mutual prosperity. My favorite memory was reading our personalized vows to each other. It was emotional for the both of us, and there were many laughs and tears. I’ll never forget how special that was.
Special Bride and Groom Moments
Immediately following their ceremony, we reserved a private moment for them to cherish as husband and wife with their requested thirst-quenching vodka shots and ice waters in the air-conditioned comfort of the bride’s room.
It was truly a special moment when they returned to hear all of their loved ones cheering them on. They joined their guests for a full group photo, followed by ever-flowing cocktails and appetizers.
Amazing Food & Drink
It was quite obvious that everyone was thoroughly enjoying this surreal venue, the incredible service, and the abundance of love in the air.
The Bars Are Us staff allured their guests with tantalizing cocktails, including a tropical favorite, Haleakala Sunset, comprised of vodka infused with mango puree, topped with citrus soda, and then a splash of cranberry.
Mai Tai’s, Chi Chi’s, whiskey, a variety of wine, pineapple IPA, local Longboard beer, and champagne resulted in a night not to be forgotten.
A hot malasada action station featuring fresh-made traditional Portuguese fried doughnuts, complete with haupia (coconut), lilikoi (passion fruit), and chocolate lava fillings.
But, the sweets did not stop there. Other goodies included individual mini apple and banana creme pies, wedding cake with tropical flavors of passion fruit mousse, caramelized pineapple, and strawberries.
Non Traditional Guest Book
Spotlight Photobooth was there to add another element of fun and interaction for guest and their non-traditional “guestbook” consisted of a genuine Hawaiian ukulele where their guests penned their names and well wishes.
James and Christine’s creativity was evident as they even designed personal cooling fans as their ceremony program, corresponding menus, and favors for their guests as keepsakes.
ROMANTIC RECEPTION
A romantic ambiance was created through an abundance of twinkling candles, strings of bistro bulbs, a sweetheart chandelier, and ocean illumination. Their love for each other was proclaimed as they read personalized vows to each other, which also included some laughter and tears. Their Filipino heritage was an integral part of their ceremony.
- Bar Service: Bars Are Us
- Cakes & Catering: Cafe O'Lei
- Cakes & Catering: Cakes by JoAnn
- DJs: DJ Del Sol
- Flowers: Feather & Fern Maui
- Hair, Makeup & Beauty: Meili Autumn Beauty
- Lighting, Entertainment & Photo Booth: Spotlight Photobooth
- Paper Goods & Calligraphy: Miss B. Calligraphy
- Photographers: Megan Moura
- Venues: Olowalu Plantation House
- Videography: Eight Count Edits