HAWAII WEDDING FAQS
What are the requirements to legally marry in Hawaii?
All that's required is a marriage license. The majority of this process is done online, you simply pickup the licnese upon your arrival. After the event we will file all legal documentation on your behalf. The only documentation required to obtain the license is a photo ID such as a drivers license or passport. There are no citizenship or residency requirements, your marriage is legal throughout the world. Some countries do require an Apostille, you can apply for this document when obtaining the license. Your wedding conformation will provide all necessary information to obtain the license.
How long does it take to get a Marriage License?
You can apply and obtain a marriage license the same day. You can pre-apply for the license within one year of the wedding date. Once the license is physically obtained it is good for 30 days.
When will I receive my Marriage Certificate?
The State of Hawaii will issue a temporary copy of the marriage license which can be downloaded online within a few days of the ceremony. You will then receive a certified copy of your marriage license by mail within 120 days of your wedding. If you need a certified hard copy of your marriage license sooner, you can go online to request the copy or send the green form that is given to you when you apply for the license.
How do we get our Hawaii Marriage License?
All that is required is a photo ID and $65 paid to the State of Hawaii. You can get a Head start on the process by applying online at marriage.ehawaii.gov. Once you come to Hawaii you must go to the Hawaii State Dept. of Health located at 1250 Punchbowl Street in Downtown Honolulu with your photo ID to pick up your Marriage License. They are open 8am-4pm Monday-Friday. If you are unable to go during their regular office hours don’t panic. You can arrange to meet with an agent after hours or on the weekend.
What is the best time of year to come to Hawaii?
In our opinion ANYTIME is an ideal time to have a wedding ceremony in paradise. The average temperature is 75 to 85 degrees, year round. The seasonal change is minimal, February and March have a greater possibility of rain.
What happens if it rains on our wedding day?
Weather forecasts typically call for rain on the islands throughout the year. This does not mean it will be raining at your location. The forecast is typically referencing the valley regions, the chance of rain at beach venues is fairly low. In the unlikely event of rain, we do have alternative locations. In many cases it will be raining at a location on the South Shore yet beautiful on the East Shore. If requested, and available, will can also make arrangements at indoor chapel locations (additional fees will apply). If we see a storm is developing we can also move the service to another day (subject to availability).
What is the best day of the week to plan my wedding?
Hawaii is a very active state, the local community definitely takes advantage of the natural elements on weekends. If seclusion is important to you, we highly recommend choosing a weekday.
How long is the wedding?
That depends on the package you choose but between 1-5 hours. The ceremony itself is typically 18-20 minutes, the remainder of the time is for photography purposes. If you have a musician, doves, readings or blessings from family or friends it can last a bit longer.
Where do we go for Hair & Makeup?
We send our stylists to wherever you’re staying. They bring everything they need to get you gorgeous. All you have to do is have dry hair and a clean face.
Do we need to send photos of Bridal Hair and Makeup?
Our stylists are very in touch with what’s current in Bridal Hair and Makeup and especially Hair and Makeup for Photography. If you see a photo you like of great makeup or amazing hair please send it by email to our office and we will pass it along to our stylists. If you don’t have a clear vision for your BIG day, don’t worry, our team will have some great ideas to complement your face shape and hair texture as well as your wedding dress. Please vocalize your thoughts during your day-of consultation. Trust me, or stylists are great listeners!!
What is the Hawaiian Lei Ceremony?
The lei ceremony is a time honored Hawaiian blessing to present fresh flower leis to honor each other as a gesture of love, aloha and respect. The true meaning of what a lei means is explained during the ceremony which adds a touch of Hawaiian tradition to the event. It is also a perfect way to show your appreciation to your family and friends.
How do I book my wedding date with you?
To reserve your wedding date, a non-refundable deposit is required. The deposit is deducted from the total cost of the wedding. This allows us to begin planning your wedding and secure the date and time. Start by sending us an email with your wedding details or simple call us (808 321-7445). A wedding coordinator will contact you within 24-48 hours, typically by e-mail, with a personalized wedding confirmation.
What happens after we have reserved our wedding date?
Once we receive your reservation you will receive a personalized wedding confirmation. The confirmation arrives via email within 24-48 hours. In your confirmation you will find a "Wedding Package Information Sheet". This sheet will allow you to customize the package based on your preferences. We request you return the completed information sheet at least one month prior to your event to ensure all requests can be accommodated.
How many days before our wedding would you recommend arriving in Hawaii?
We recommend at least two days prior to your ceremony. This is so you have enough time to get acclimated to the time change, meet with your wedding coordinator and obtain all legal documentation. Please keep in mind, this is not a requirement. Many couples arrive the day before and even the day of. In these cases special arrangements will need to be made however, we are happy to accommodate.
What do we wear?
The great part of a destination ceremony is it allows you to make the rules. There are no requirements on our end. Your wedding coordinator is happy to provide a variety of recommendations based on the style you choose. It is not uncommon for the bride to be in a gown and the groom to be in a "Tommy Bahama" style shirt and shorts! Everything works. Just a little advice on the shoes, high heels on the beach can be a challenge. It's good to wear flats or bring a second pair to walk in.
Can the wedding packages be customized?
Absolutely! You are welcome to customize any of the packages to accommodate your requests.