Amidst the reopening of the world following the pandemic, many couples have opted to forgo the large, lavish wedding ceremony and instead choose a small and intimate, yet luxurious, destination celebration. Lia and Ryan did exactly that! When they first began the planning process, they originally envisioned an elopement in Paris. But, their plans were sidelined due to travel restrictions and a desire to have their daughter, Tinsley, by their side. However, as they say, everything happens for a reason – and the plans that followed ended up being more than they dreamed of.

Emily Tincher, Aloha Collective Principal Planner, says: “Family was so important to Lia and Ryan. When they were originally thinking of eloping in France, they were torn over not being able to have their daughter, Tinsley, involved in the ceremony. By moving their ceremony to Hawaii, they were able to have Tinsley and the rest of their family join them for their ceremony. I think that being so in love and having those who love them the most created the most amazing atmosphere for their wedding day.”

Hawaii offered them the destination elopement they were going for, but one that was more accessible. Lia and Ryan said “I do” in the historic ruins of one of Maui’s most beloved wedding venues, Haiku Mill. This venue struck the perfect balance between Hawaiian charm and the French countryside vibe they were originally going for. With just a handful of their closest in attendance, the romance and intimacy of their nuptials were felt and cherished by all.

When it comes to their design, Emily shares: “Planning with Lia and Ryan could not have been easier. They had a very clear vision for what they wanted their design to look like, from the drapery to the hanging crystals and floral arrangements.” Drawing inspiration from the French countryside, florist Mandy Grace Designs brought in lush garden blooms to create an overgrown garden vibe.  Dendrobium orchid leis were strung from the ceiling of the mill, tying in a nod to Ryan’s Hawaiian heritage. Erica Goldsmith, Aloha Collective Creative Director + Owner, adds, “Classic, timeless and romantic is what comes to mind when describing Lia and Ryan’s wedding design.  It was the quintessential fairy tale wedding with the most beautiful couple. We created an afternoon where guests were swept away to a dream-like fairy tale setting perfect for Lia and Ryan to say their I dos.”

All the details from the day flowed together seamlessly thanks to Aloha Collective and the rest of their vendor team, and Chris J. Evans captured it all to perfection.