It’s no surprise that Maui is a hotbed for destination weddings. With the stunning sunsets over the wide-open ocean, the sounds of tropical birds above and the overall feeling of island relaxation – people flock from all over the world to take in the beauty of the island. Jiwon and Richard fit right alongside most in their adoration for Maui. They decided to marry in Maui for that reason and also for its central location to the U.S. mainland and Korea – where the majority of their family members reside.

“Maui also felt a bit more secluded and private,” the couple says.

With their ideal location picked out, Jiwon and Richard could focus on the logistics of getting everyone together in one place at the same time – which would not be an easy task. Guests coming from Korea were only available for a short time frame. It would be a 10-hour flight from Korea to the island, and those who couldn’t stay long would only spend 48 hours enjoying Hawaii. Luckily, this was a journey many were willing to take to witness the couple’s union be solidified.

The next point of order was to recruit a planner who they could confidently share their vision with and hand over the reins for the most part. Who better to take on the challenge than a team of local planners with Platinum Weddings & Events? 

“Amber and Dani did a great job and were really dedicated,” the couple says.

The groom’s parents also helped in the planning process by taking a mini-vacation to tour some of the many stellar venues Maui has to offer. Ultimately, the couple went with Wailea Beach Resort and reserved a room block right away.  

“This was a quick turnaround wedding – we contracted with them in May and had their wedding in July,” their planner, Dani says.

Along with his parents, Richard played an important role in the planning process as the planner’s main point of contact. As a result, details of the wedding came together a bit masculine, providing a neat twist to the event!

“The groom was really excellent at letting go of some of the control and having faith in us to pull everything together. Their reaction to the wedding weekend was perfection,” Dani says.

Jiwon and Richard’s Maui destination wedding, although a quick turnaround, manifested into an experience with family from across the globe to be cherished forever.

Vendors: Photographer: NV Maui Media; Wedding Planner: Platinum Weddings & Events Maui; Ceremony/Reception Site: Wailea Beach Resort & Maui Brewing Company; Florist: Bella Bloom; Cake: Sugar Beach Events; Beauty: I am U’i; DJ: KCK Entertainment; Photo Booth: Strike A Pose Maui; Linens and Coverings: BBJ LINEN & Accel Party Rentals; Calligraphy: Miss B Calligraphy; Equipment Rentals: Set Maui, Signature Event Rentals & Hawaiian Style Event Rentals; Design & Decor: Rio Event Design