The Guide You Need To Plan A Dream Hawaii Elopement!
Let me start by saying…. Congrats, not only on your engagement but also on your upcoming elopement! You decided to elope which means that you get to have an incredibly unique experience that is a true reflection of you and your partner! As a Hawaii elopement photographer, I love working with couples to document every moment of your celebration. I have created a list of important information to know when planning your Hawaii elopement.
All You Need to Plan a Perfect Hawaii Elopement
How to Get a Hawaii Marriage License
Just like any other wedding there are a few things you will need to ensure that everything goes smoothly on the day of the wedding.
Before your wedding, you will need to get a marriage license. ou can apply for your marriage license 30 days in advance of your wedding. The marriage license is $60 plus $5 for the processing fee. To start this process and fill out the application online go to the Hawaii State Department of Health. Then, once you have finished you will go together to their office with a form of ID! To start this process and fill out the application online go to the Hawaii State Department of Health. Then, once you have finished you will go together to their office with a form of ID! Also, Hawaii does not require you to have any witnesses, your elopement can be very intimate with just you and your partner and someone to officiate your wedding!
How Much Does a Nashville Elopement Cost?
Since elopements are so customizable, you can make them as affordable as you’d like! On average, couples spend between $2,500-$10,000. Here are a few things you need to consider when budgeting.
- A Registered Marriage Perfromer– This is someone to perform your ceremony and file your license
- Florals
- Accommodations
- Marriage License cost
- Permitting fees
- Travel arrangements
- Excursions
- Photographer
Hawaii Elopement Locations
One of the main reasons that Hawaii is a hub for elopements is the vast diversity throughout the islands. You have mountains, forests, beaches, waterfalls, and everything in between. There is truly something for everyone! Below are a few breathtaking locations for your elopement:
- Waialua Valley Farms: This venue is located on the North Shore of Oahu. It overlooks the Kamananui stream and Mt Ka’ala, which is the tallest peak on the island. This venue offers a space for up to 50 guests.
- Kaimea Estates: This private estate, located just outside Waikiki, offers a variety of stunning backdrops.
- Crouching Lion: If you are looking for a mountainside location, this is your spot. This is a short hike that overlooks the water and is the perfect sunrise spot!
- Ka’ena Point State Park:
- Waimea Valley: Nestled in the iconic Waimea Valley, this venue is surrounded by a lush garden and greenery. You will truly feel the spirit of Hawaii from the moment you drive up to the venue.
Hiring a Hawaii Elopement Photographer
One of the biggest things to keep in mind when budgeting is your photographer. I promise, this isn’t my bias speaking! This elopement is an adventure you’ll want to remember for years to come. It is so deeply special and personal, and you need to document every single second. If you are looking for a seasoned Hawaii elopement photographer ready to be there for your journey, I would love to talk! I am deeply passionate about capturing all those subtle, quiet moments that you’ll want to look back on for years to come. If genuine, timeless moments sound good to you, I think we might just be a match!
Hawaii has implemented policies to protect their land, therefore, Hawaii does require permits to have your wedding/elopement or even just professional photos at most locations. You will want to ensure that your photographer is well versed in permitting to ensure that you are doing everything legally. There are a few different types of permits a Wiki Permit and a Special Use Permit. I offer a location guide with Hawaiis top spots to elope. As your photographer I will file and help with you through the permitting process.
When Should You Elope in Hawaii
One of the most amazing things about Hawaii is that there are really only two seasons in the year, summer and winter. As always there are pros and cons to each of these seasons. The best time of the year to elope or visit Hawaii is between March and September. This means that the islands are at the highest temps with the lowest rain. November through March the weather is more regulated, but this is the rainy season. It is important to not that during any time of the year and rain showers can still be localized and occur. Plus, you might get the infamous rainbows to peak out in your photos after a rainstorm!
- Winter runs from November to March, and tourism is slower. The weather is more regulated, and on average, it tends to rain more. The average temperature is 78 degrees. In the winter, the surf is intense.
- Summer- Runs from April to October. The days are nearly perfect, sunny days, and have less rain with higher temperatures. It is important to keep in mind that tourism is higher during these months, the average temperature is 85 degrees, and the surf is going to be calmer.
Planning Elopement day activities
Planning your elopement in Hawaii means that there are many activities you cannot do in other states. Once you choose your elopement package, I will recommend the best companies for your activities. Along with activities, I will give you recommendations for restaurants, accommodations, and of course, all my favorite vendor referrals, based on which island you choose for your elopement.
On your elopement day, you don’t have to be in your wedding dress all day! We can plan activities and capture some fun moments that reflect your love story, something you both want to try, or even just your daily routine of getting coffee, reading, or going to the beach. Some of my favorite activities are below:
- snorkeling
- waterfall exploring
- hiking
- horseback riding
- taking a boat/sailboat/catamaran tour
- ATVing
- A relaxing beach picnic!
Your Hawaii Elopement Will be Seamless and Stunning
I hope this post helps as you start to plan your Hawaii elopement! If you do want to find out more about booking me for your elopement, let’s chat! Head over to my contact page and send an inquiry so we can get the conversation started.
