Married on Lana'i - A Secluded Island Paradise
When thinking about Hawaii, most people will instantly think of The Big Island (Hawaii), Maui, and Oahu. You can't go wrong with choosing Hawaii as your destination wedding location, but before you decide on getting married on one of the better-known islands, have you considered all the options? Lanai is the smallest inhabited Hawaiian island that is publicly accessible, and to those looking for an unforgettable destination wedding location, Lanai could be the perfect hidden gem.
Lanai: Luxury Off the Beaten Path
Whether you're after unparalleled luxury away from the crowds or an untamed adventure prior the wedding, Lanai packs a punch despite its small size.
The 140 square mile island with 3000 residents can only be reached via plane from Oahu or a ferry from Maui. Due to that, the island retains its privacy and serenity as only approximately 200-300 tourists visit per day.
At the very heart of the island is Lanai city - both geographical and cultural epicenter of Lanai. You cannot help but embrace the exotic small-town charm and life here moves in the slow lane. Quite literally. There are only about 30 miles of paved roads in Lanai and a 20-30 mph speed limit. What about the rest? You will need a 4-wheel drive for that. You won't find buzzing nightlife in Lanai. Instead, you'll be met with hospitality and natural beauty.
The only resort on Lanai is the Four Seasons. It excels with unmatched oceanfront views overlooking Hulopoe Bay (we dare say, one of the best beaches in Hawaii) and is only a 20-minute drive from Lanai City. Not only does it offer indoor and outdoor wedding venue options, but there's also plenty to do for both you and your guests before the wedding. Head inland and explore the island with an adrenaline-fueled UTV ride, go horseback riding or enjoy a game of golf in the Jack Nicklaus-signature golf course.
A more budget-friendly option is staying in the charming and historic Hotel Lanai that has welcomed guests since the 1920s. In Lanai City at Dole Square, you will find many local-owned shops and restaurants, or you can catch a movie in the movie theater.
Exploring Lanai
Historically, Lanai was known for its pineapple plantations, and if you head to Lanai City from Hulopoe Bay, you will pass through Palawai Basin which used to be a pineapple field. You can also head up the Munro Trail that reaches Lanaihale, Lanai’s highest peak. If ocean views and serene beaches aren't enough to take your breath away, Keahiakawelo
certainly will. Known also as the Garden of Gods, it is known for its otherworldly Mars-like scenery of red sand and rock formations. It is located only about 45 minutes away from Lanai City. Some eeriness can be found in Kaiolohia or the Shipwreck Beach where the hull of a 1940s oil tanker still sits in the water. We already mentioned the Hulopoe Bay which is not only one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii but also offers perfect snorkeling spots. And if you are looking to chase those romantic last rays of the sun during an unforgettable sunset, there's no place better than Kaumalapau Harbor.
Useful facts:
Many activities are offered by and booked directly through Four Seasons while some are exclusive to resort guests, so check beforehand.
Majority of the island outside of Lanai City can only be reached by 4-wheel drive, therefore it's best to check locally for directions and/or restrictions.
For accommodation options aside from Four Seasons Resorts Lanai and Hotel Lanai, there are a handful of local-owned vacation rentals.
Expeditions is the name of the ferry between Maui and Lanai.
Sailing Trilogy offers sailing tours from Maui to Lanai.
Becca & Ryan’s Joyful Destination Wedding in Maui
Becca and Ryan’s romance began in the sunshine of Australia, so it was only fitting for their love to be sealed forever in a different beautiful coastal destination like Hawaii. For Hawaii wedding planner, Lorrie Betsill Nielson, curating the details for both the Wedding Day, and also their Aloha Welcome Party the night before, was a dream come true as the love that surrounded them by their family and friends was the perfect reflection of the pure love they have for one another. To kick off the Maui destination wedding festivities, we began with a welcome reception at the beautiful Westin Maui Resort + Spa that embodied the aloha spirit shot beautifully by Sanaz Photography.
Guests were treated to a visual rainbow of vibrant tropical details and florals, which they enjoyed while sipping the couple’s signature cocktail, a Mai Tai, amongst the palms.
Fresh local fish tacos with the couple’s favorite toppings were served, while guests dined at communal tables designed with clear modern stools and simple, clean florals, pineapples and palm leaves.
A Maui destination wedding isn’t complete without a taste of shaved ice! Becca and Ryan incorporated this extra sweet station for guests to choose their favorite flavors of this refreshing Hawaiian staple.
The evening centered around details that were bright, fresh and joyful, just like Becca and Ryan. With live musical sound provided by Barefoot Minded, bringing the perfect blend of island style vibes.
For their wedding day, Becca and Ryan chose romantic details, with an al fresco oceanfront flair with a focus on bright and carefully planned details. “We wanted the guests to attend their wedding, not just any wedding!” says destination wedding planner Lorrie Betsill Nielson, founder and creative director of Unveiled Hawaii. Photo Credit: Sanaz Photography
The sounds of laughter and excitement filled the bridal suite as Becca and Ryan got ready to see each other for the first time as she prepared for her romantic first look.
Excitement permeated the warm air as Becca and Ryan eagerly waited to become husband and wife. Even our little flower girl was anticipating the moment.
Married!
Guests were treated to a stunning reception set against the backdrop of the gorgeous Pacific Ocean, with blue accents to tie in the cool coastal theme. And it was time to eat, drink and be married!
Now, can it get any more joyful than that? Swoon….
For information on planning your very own Hawaii Destination Wedding please contact us! We look forward to connecting with you soon!
6 TIPS TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR DESTINATION WEDDING
Planning a destination wedding doesn’t come with a rule book. Thankfully, we have planned many luxury Hawaii weddings and want to share 6 tips to know before your destination wedding.
1. Hire a destination wedding planner
Once you know the time of year you want to get married (or even before) it is a very good idea to hire a wedding planner. Destination wedding planners play a vital role to ensure your dream wedding goes off without a hitch, and especially when you are a having a luxury destination wedding. There are many additional details that go into planning a wedding from afar and you want to feel comfortable knowing it is going to be perfect every step of the way. We would love to chat with you about planning your destination wedding!
2. Be weather-wise
Getting married in a tropical destination like Hawaii has many amazing benefits. Beautiful sunny days and warm romantic nights are just two of them! Although, there are times when rain is more common, so if your dream is to have an outdoor ceremony and reception, be sure to ask your destination wedding planner about the weather patterns throughout the islands.
3. Negotiate hotel room blocks well in advance
Having your wedding in a popular destination like Hawaii means your guests are in for a wonderful vacation! Determine as far in advance as you can, where you want your guests to stay so that you’re able to lock-in the best rates possible during your wedding festivities. It’s ideal to offer at least two options of varying price points for your guests to choose from.
4. Send save-the-dates as early as you can
Once you have decided on your wedding date and the room blocks are secured, it’s time to send your save-the-dates! Don’t worry about sending them too early. The sooner you send your save-the-date, the sooner guests will be able to begin planning their trip to Hawaii. People will also start telling you whether or not they plan to attend, which will help give you an idea of how many guests you will have for the wedding.
5. Book activities ahead of time
There are unlimited activities to enjoy during your destination wedding in Hawaii. Help your guests make the most of their trip by booking a couple group activities or excursions. This not only helps your guests plan their trip, but also gives you more quality time to share with your guests who travelled to Hawaii to celebrate with you.
6. Coordinate shipping for any important items you are sending
If there are items you plan to incorporate in your wedding that need to be shipped, make sure to send them well in advance so they arrive on time. You don’t want to have to pay for expensive expedited shipping if possible. It can also be cumbersome to pack everything in your suitcases, so if you can ship items ahead of time that’s often best.
Photos in post by Sanaz Photography
Please comment below, if you have any questions about your Hawaii destination wedding planning!
Tips for Planning a Destination Wedding in Hawaii
Unveiled Hawaii’s Top 5 Tips for Hawaii Wedding Planning
Destination weddings in Hawaii have become immensely popular! We have the distinct pleasure of working with couples from all over the world, who choose Hawaii as the gorgeous destination for their nuptials. However, the actual planning and logistics can seem daunting for couples living so far away. Luxury Hawaii Wedding Planner, Lorrie Betsill Nielson shares a few of her best tips for putting some of the initial destination wedding planning woes aside…
DO: Hire a Wedding Planner!
Having a local wedding planner on your team, and the knowledge they possess, can be invaluable when planning a destination wedding from afar. Hawaii wedding planners know the market, have several contacts, and insider information. We know which vendors are best for which brides, we know the logistics, and we know the venues well. We know these islands!
DO: Take into Account the Time of Year
Hawaii, while almost year-round offers sunny blue skies and comfortable temperatures, does have "seasons" contrary to popular belief. Consulting with your planner to determine the best season for your destination wedding I Do’s is a must!
DO: Consider your Guests when Deciding an Island Location
Each side of the island offers different hotel accommodations, night life options, dining, and activities. Taking time to consider the guests that will likely be in attendance can help you decide the perfect side of the island to host your wedding and offer the best experience for your destination wedding guests.
DO: Have an Idea Where your Guests are Traveling From
It is always important to keep in mind where your wedding guests are traveling from to Hawaii. If guests are coming from countries outside the United States, consider which airports in Hawaii have international terminals that will be able to accommodate them. Some guests may have to take "outer island hopper flights" in addition to their international flights. It is a gracious gesture to have this information available for your loved ones traveling from far away to be in attendance on your special day.
DO: Limit Your Time Searching the Web
There is so much information available online, that the initial planning stages or even the thought of having a destination wedding in Hawaii can seem too overwhelming. Entrusting in the professionals who know the industry will not only help you alleviate the stresses of planning, but will allow you to enjoy your engagement and the special time before you are married. Professional Hawaii wedding planners will point you in the right direction, and can take your dreams and make them a reality.
These destination wedding tips are sure to get you off on the right foot when considering Hawaii for your venue. But this is just the beginning! As part of our Unveiled Hawaii services, our planners develop a custom planning strategy with each bride and groom to include developing a destination wedding planning checklist to meet the unique needs of each couple. Contact us to learn more about how we can help with your Hawaii wedding!