A Maui destination wedding allowed newlyweds Shireen and Trevor to spend days creating unforgettable memories with loved ones, like snorkeling in warm Hawaiian waters. “All in all, we created memories that will last a lifetime,” the couple says.

Aside from the fast that the bride and groom wanted to vacation in paradise, Maui has held a special place in their hearts since they first started dating. “Some of our most memorable and magical memories have been created in Maui, so as soon as we got engaged, it was 100 percent clear that we wanted to get married in a place that held a special place in both of our hearts,” Shireen says.

In terms of their guests’ reaction to their destination wedding decision, the pair says they received lots of support. However, not everyone was able to make the journey. “While some special guests were missed, Trevor and I were extremely grateful for those that made the trek out to Maui to celebrate our love,” says the bride.

While organizing her destination wedding, Shireen focused on the enjoyable aspects of planning to avoid any additional stress. “Rather than getting overwhelmed with the details, which is easy to do, I made sure to enjoy every aspect of it,” she says. To help her with inspiration, the bride says she often turned to her wedding planner and different social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram.

The newlyweds’ wedding planner was a huge help to the process, and the couple believes everything went seamlessly thanks to her. “We communicated via email daily for several months along with scheduled phone conversations to ensure we were always on the same page,” says Shireen. “I could not have done this without her! As a bride there are so many details that go into creating a vision and Kristin, our planner, kindly responded to every single one of my 100’s of emails to make sure everything was perfect.”

While the pair feels they likely spent the same amount on their destination wedding as they would have at home, they believe it would not have been as enjoyable or relaxing. “By the time our wedding day came along, we were fully in vacay mode,” the bride says. “On our actual wedding day, Trevor and I woke up early and took a beautiful walk on beach that put us both in this amazing headspace before we parted ways to get ready. There is something so calming and magical about the ocean, tropical breeze and Hawaiian sun just puts you in a good mood and calms you — that is definitely something we wouldn’t have had if we stayed local.”

Overall, Shireen advices taking in each moment and making sure to connect with your significant other throughout the process. “While wedding planning may seem daunting, try to enjoy the entire experience of creating your special day,” she says.

Vendors: Photographer: Tamiz Photography, Wedding Planner: Opihi Love Weddings and Events, Ceremony/Reception Site: Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, Florist: Mandy Grace Designs, Stationery: Minted, Hair & Makeup: MeiLi Autumn Beauty, Gown Designer: Liz Martinez, Bride Shoe Designer: Jimmy Choo, Groom’s Clothing Designer: Hugo Boss, Bridesmaid’s Clothing Designer: Katie May, Groomsmen’s Clothing Designer: Hugo Boss, DJ: Clarity Entertainment, Rentals: Rio Event Design, Signature Maui, and Hawaiian Style Event Rentals, Officiant: Kahu Kale Kaalekahi, Photo Booth: Bamboo Shootz, Custom Wedding Signs: Rich Design Co. & Wedding Favors (Luggage Tags): Curry’s Leather