If you have an upcoming trip to Oahu and have been envisioning planning an engagement session, Oahu is the dream destination you. Whether you are drawn to the coastal vibes and sunsets on the Eastside in Kailua, the jungles with swimming holes and waterfalls or the moutains that meet the ocean. Oahu has offers so many romantic places to make your moment unforgettable.
In this blog, I’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the details of planning your dreamy engagement session on Oahu. This guide will serve as your go-to resource for every step of the way, ensuring your wedding is nothing short of extraordinary.
1. Crouching lion
Crouching Lion is perfect for couples who don’t mind a small hike. This mountain top location looks down into Kahana Bay, creating an oppertunity for photos on the beach after. Located east side of the island, it’s a moderate .3 mile hike to the top. It’s perfect for a sunrise session or proposal for an intimate moment with soft, glowy light rising over the ocean. Crouching lion is stunning at all times of the day but the mornings are extra quite.
2. Ka’a’awa Beach
Ka’a’awa Beach is a magical setting that is always picture perfect. This spot is beach front with picture perfect palm trees and a mountain as your backdrop. This beach is on the east side of the island as well just down the road from Crouching Lion. This beaches benefit is that is is almost always empty allowing you the space to be yourselves. This spot is perfect for the couples who want both the mountains and beach.
3. Ko Olina
Ko Olina is the perfect location if you want an easy location that is beach front. Located right between the four seasons and the Disney Aulani Resort it’s easy to access. Surrounded by rocks, oceans, and palm trees this location is a popular one for the picturesque views. Ko Olina has restuarants and bars which is perfect for after your celebration. As a bonus theres a Lu’au located on property if you want to end the night with a fun event.
4. Barbers Point Light House
Barbers Point Light House is truly a location out of a romance movie. It is a private beach on the west side of the island in Kapolei. This location has stunning sunsets that happen right at the point and is a quick walk from the parking lot. Barbers Point is only about a 15 minute drive from Ko Olina, which allows you to stay close to restaurants. You can also finish off your night at the la’ua right on the beach next to the lighthouse.
1. Choose the Right Location:
Pick a spot that resonates with your relationship. Maybe that’s the beach, a garden, or somewhere meaningful to you both. Either way make sure you know if your partner wants it to be intimate or more public. I can help you find a spot that is perfect for you both.
2. Timing is Everything:
Depending on where you choose will effect the best time for the proposal. I always recommend proposing during golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) for the best glowy lighting! This always creates magical photos
3. Add Personal Touches:
Incooperating elements that reflect your relationship, a handwritten letter, or props that hold sentimental value make your photos show off your story.
4. Practice your proposal beforehand:
Make sure you practice what you’re going to say so you feel confident in the moment. Include things like inside jokes and personal memories of when you knew they were the one for you.
5. The big day is here:
Day of, we’ll share locations on “Find My Friends” so you can see when I’ve arrived, and I’ll know when you’re approaching. I’ll stay hidden or blend in until the moment you get down on one knee!
6. Celebrate Nearby:
After the proposal, pop some champagne, take a moment to facetime a family member or friends, then then we will get started capturing some portraits! I’ll give you prompts that make the moment feel more like a date night instead of a portrait session.
A proposal is one of the most memorable moments of your life! Having it professionally photographed ensures the emotions, reactions, and moment is preserved for you and your partner to relive the moment. You will always be able to look back at these images and remember the exact feelings from your special day.
Oahu has so many beautiful locations and variety making it a top choice for couples looking to propose. Ready to start planning your enagagement session on Oahu? Head to my contact page so we can chat about the ideas you have! If you want to learn more about me and what I do, click here. Can’t wait to hear from you!