In the wake of the tragedy inflicted on West Maui by recent wildfires, it is imperative that brides and grooms continue to consider Maui for their destination weddings. Destination I Do has partnered with local Maui wedding planner, Taryn Stark Wyant, to spotlight areas of Maui open and eager to host couples and their families and friends!

“Lahaina is my home,” Taryn says. “I grew up there, I started a business there, I’ve raised a family there, and I own a home there. It is, in my opinion, the most magical place on earth and what makes it so is the community. The people of Maui are full of mana (power), full of aloha (love). Although Lahaina is closed to tourism at this time, the rest of our beautiful island is open. The Lahaina community, and the community of Maui as a whole, need our island economy to move forward in the wake of this tragedy. While our West Maui O’hana comes together to support each other and rebuild, we will rely on our visitors to continue experiencing the joy of Maui on the other sides of the island. The best thing you can do to help Maui is to come to Maui and enjoy our Southside and Upcountry.”

Chris Serna of KCK Entertainment, another Lahaina resident and Maui wedding vendor, shared his perspective with our team. “Lahaina and West Maui are a proud and strong community as with all the islands. There are many many families that need to continue to work and South Maui needs to keep moving forward to help support all of us… Lahaina needs time to heal and needs support but from a distance.”

South Maui presents an enchanting canvas for couples seeking an unforgettable destination wedding. With its idyllic blend of natural beauty and serene ambiance, this tropical paradise offers the perfect backdrop for celebrating love. The warm, year-round climate ensures a reliably pleasant setting for your special day, while the stunning sunsets over the Pacific Ocean create a romantic and magical atmosphere. South Maui’s array of luxurious resorts, intimate boutique hotels, and charming villas cater to every couple’s vision, providing not only exquisite accommodations but also a range of exceptional services tailored to make each wedding a unique masterpiece. Beyond the ceremony, couples and their guests can explore an array of activities, from snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs to embarking on scenic hikes up the dormant Haleakalā volcano. South Maui, with its natural allure and romantic allure, beckons couples to embark on a memorable journey of love and unity.

For those in search of an idyllic, off-the-beaten-path locale that resonates with romance and allure, Upcountry Maui emerges as a top-tier choice for an unparalleled destination wedding. From boutique wineries to quaint local farmers’ markets, the area offers diverse options for pre- and post-wedding activities, allowing couples to infuse their special day with cultural richness and personalized flair.

Supporting Lahaina in its recovery from the Maui wildfires requires a collective effort and a compassionate spirit. First and foremost, contributing to local relief funds and organizations dedicated to wildfire recovery can provide much-needed financial resources to assist affected residents and businesses. If you feel led to do so, here is a vetted donation link: https://www.hawaiicommunityfoundation.org/maui-strong

To help inspire your South Maui wedding plans, we’ve included shots from Beth and Mathew’s stunning wedding. Taryn Stark Wyant helped this couple plan their island celebration, and it was perfectly executed by a team of talented vendors, many of which call Maui “home.” (Find a full vendor list below the images.)