Your Complete Guide to Planning a Wedding on Oahu
Planning a wedding is an exciting but often daunting task, especially when your dream destination is the breathtaking island of Oahu. Known for its stunning beaches, lush mountains, and vibrant culture, Oahu offers countless opportunities to make your wedding unforgettable. To help you plan the perfect day, we’ve compiled a complete guide to organizing your wedding on this Hawaiian paradise. From venues and officiants to entertainment and accommodations, here’s everything you need to know.
Step 1: Find a wedding venue. Here are the top 10 Wedding Venues on Oahu
Lanikuhonua Cultural Institute
Known as “Where Heaven Meets Earth,” this venue features expansive lawns, stunning oceanfront views, and a peaceful ambiance. It’s perfect for couples seeking a traditional Hawaiian setting.
Kualoa Ranch
A versatile venue offering several picturesque locations, including Secret Island Beach, Paliku Gardens, and the historic Molii Gardens. Each site provides a unique backdrop of mountains, ocean, or greenery.
Haiku Gardens
This lush botanical garden is ideal for intimate ceremonies. Surrounded by tropical foliage and with a charming chapel on-site, Haiku Gardens captures the essence of Oahu’s natural beauty.
The Royal Hawaiian Hotel
This iconic pink hotel on Waikiki Beach combines luxury and history. Its oceanfront lawn and Monarch Room are perfect for sophisticated weddings.
Sunset Ranch
Situated on the North Shore, this private estate offers panoramic views of the coastline, forests, and mountains. It’s a versatile option for rustic or elegant weddings.
Paradise Cove
A beachfront venue in Ko Olina with white sandy beaches and swaying palm trees. Paradise Cove is perfect for couples dreaming of a classic Hawaiian beach wedding.
Waimea Valley
This sacred valley features lush gardens and a majestic waterfall, providing a unique and serene setting for your ceremony.
Turtle Bay Resort
Located on Oahu’s North Shore, this resort offers multiple venue options, including oceanfront lawns and a glass-walled pavilion overlooking the Pacific.
Loulu Palm Estate
A private beachfront property offering a secluded and romantic setting. With views of the ocean and mountains, it’s a popular choice for boho and rustic weddings.
Hale Koa Estate
This luxury venue in Honolulu combines a grand estate with tropical gardens and ocean views, providing a glamorous setting for your big day.
Step 2: Find a hotel for yourself and guests. Here are the top 10 Hotels for Guest Accommodations.
Halekulani Hotel
This luxury hotel in Waikiki offers elegant rooms, oceanfront views, and world-class amenities. It’s perfect for guests seeking a high-end experience.
The Kahala Hotel & Resort
Located just outside Waikiki, this secluded resort features pristine beaches, dolphin encounters, and exceptional dining.
Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort
A family-friendly resort with modern amenities, beachfront access, and a Polynesian cultural center on-site.
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa
Ideal for families, Aulani combines Disney magic with Hawaiian culture, offering activities for guests of all ages.
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa
Known as the “First Lady of Waikiki,” this historic hotel combines old-world charm with modern luxury.
The Modern Honolulu
A chic and contemporary hotel with stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, and easy access to Waikiki’s nightlife.
Turtle Bay Resort, Ritz Carlton
A North Shore gem offering oceanfront cottages, golf courses, and activities like horseback riding and surfing.
Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel
A budget-friendly option with colorful decor, beachfront access, and stunning views of Diamond Head.
Hilton Hawaiian Village
A sprawling resort with multiple pools, restaurants, and activities, including nightly luau shows and fireworks.
Sheraton Waikiki
Featuring an infinity pool, oceanfront dining, and a central location in Waikiki, this hotel is a convenient and luxurious choice for guests.
Step 3: Find a Caterer. Here are the top 5 caterers on Oahu.
Top 5 Wedding Caterers on Oahu:
Honolulu, HI
Offers professional catering services focused on events and wedding celebrations, emphasizing quality and accommodating various budgets and preferences.
Honolulu, HI
Specializes in custom, chef-crafted menus, focusing on clients’ favorite dishes, providing full-service catering with skilled staff, bar services, event rentals, and custom decor.
Honolulu, HI
Provides an elevated culinary experience with exceptional, high-end food offerings that complement any wedding celebration.
Honolulu, HI
A full-service wedding and event catering company offering food and beverage preparation, service for rehearsal dinners, cocktail receptions, and more.
Honolulu, HI
Known for personalized wedding catering services, offering a variety of menu options tailored to clients’ preferences.
Step 4: Find a florist. Here are the top 5 Wedding Florists on Oahu:
Hawaii’s largest retail florist, offering a wide range of floral arrangements and services for weddings, known for their fresh and creative designs.
Specializes in creating incredible wedding arrangements, including bouquets, arches, and centerpieces, with a focus on fresh, seasonal blooms.
Offers European and tropical-inspired floral designs for weddings, elopements, and events, emphasizing lush, artful arrangements.
A wedding and event florist with a passion for creative, fun, and intentional floral design, providing services across Oahu.
Known for unique and heartfelt floral designs, creating arrangements that weave stories with their blooms.
When selecting vendors, it’s advisable to contact them directly to discuss your specific needs, check availability, and request personalized quotes.
Step 5: Find an officiant. Here are the top 5 Wedding Officiants on Oahu
Reverend James Chun
Known for his warm and personalized ceremonies, Reverend Chun works closely with couples to create a service that reflects their love story and values.
Hawaii Wedding Minister (Reverend Michael Nelson)
Reverend Nelson specializes in non-denominational and spiritual ceremonies. His calming presence ensures a stress-free experience.
Kahu Pomaika‘i (Kahu Bruce)
A traditional Hawaiian officiant who incorporates cultural elements, such as lei exchanges and Hawaiian chants, for a truly authentic experience.
Rev. Diana Sands
With over 20 years of experience, Rev. Sands provides heartfelt and inclusive ceremonies tailored to each couple’s preferences.
Hawaii Vows (Reverend Watters)
Reverend Watters offers a variety of ceremony styles, from formal and traditional to casual and lighthearted. His flexibility and professionalism make him a popular choice.
Step 6: Find a DJ or Band for Entertainment. Here are the top 5 on Oahu.
DJ Hapa Boy
Known for his ability to read the crowd, DJ Hapa Boy ensures a packed dance floor with a mix of contemporary hits, classics, and island-inspired tunes.
Pacific Sounds Entertainment
A full-service DJ company offering professional sound, lighting, and MC services. They work closely with couples to create a custom playlist.
Mango Season
This versatile band blends jazz, Hawaiian, and pop music, providing a unique and lively soundtrack for your wedding.
The Fresh Preps
A local favorite, this band offers a mix of acoustic, reggae, and pop covers. Perfect for beach weddings and relaxed receptions.
Ka’ala Boys
A popular Hawaiian band specializing in traditional island music and contemporary hits. They bring an authentic Hawaiian vibe to any celebration.
Step 7: Find a photographer and videographer
Oahu’s natural beauty deserves to be captured by professionals. Look for photographers and videographers experienced in destination weddings to ensure you get stunning shots of your big day. One of our favorites wedding photographers on the island is Megan Costello.
Additional Tips for Planning Your Oahu Wedding
Consider the Season
Oahu’s weather is warm year-round, but it’s essential to consider seasonal factors. The summer months (June-August) are typically dry and sunny but can be busier due to tourism. Winter (December-February) brings cooler temperatures and occasional rain, but it’s also whale-watching season. Fall and spring offer a balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Budgeting and Permits
Hawaiian weddings can range from modest to extravagant. Be sure to budget for venue rental, travel expenses, and vendor services. If you’re planning a beach ceremony, check if you need a permit—many public beaches require one.
Local Traditions
Incorporating Hawaiian traditions, such as a lei exchange or an oli chant, adds a meaningful touch to your ceremony. Work with your officiant or planner to include these elements authentically.
Hiring a Wedding Planner
A local wedding planner can be invaluable for coordinating vendors, securing permits, and handling logistics. Their expertise ensures a smooth and stress-free experience.
Transportation
Consider arranging transportation for guests, especially if your venue is in a remote location. Shuttle services or group transportation can make logistics easier for everyone.
By selecting the right venue, hiring experienced vendors, and incorporating local touches, your wedding on Oahu can be everything you’ve dreamed of and more. With this guide in hand, you’re well on your way to planning a celebration that you and your guests will cherish forever.