When asked why newlyweds James and Christina decided to have a destination wedding on the beaches of Hawaii, the answer was simple: “We love to travel, and we love Maui!”

Because the bride had always dreamed of getting married in Maui, vacationed there since her childhood and even lived there after college, the island seemed like the perfect destination for the couple to embark on their new journey together as husband and wife.

“James and I had taken many trips to Maui, and it became a special place for us. We love the ocean and the beach and were excited to have our family and friends celebrate in a place we love,” the bride says.

To carry this sentimentality throughout the wedding, Christina and James also paid a special homage to their dog and to their grandparents who were not able to attend the wedding in person.

“We had a display with pictures of all of our grandparents as well as our parents on their wedding days. I bought pineapples and propped the printed pictures on them,” the bride says. “One of our favorite details was our signature cocktail, which was named Kona Kooler, after our sweet dog Kona who couldn’t make it to the wedding. We made stir sticks with her picture to garnish cocktails.”

Fortunately for Christina, executing the details of her destination wedding was easier than she thought it would be, thanks to the help of her planner, Kristen from Sugar Beach Events. She also took a trip to Maui six months prior to the big day for a tasting and a meeting with the florist. 

Christina also recommends splurging on photography and videography over anything else. “It has been amazing reliving all of the details over and over with gorgeous photos and a video,” the bride says. 

Although the price tag for a destination wedding can seem expensive at first, the couple estimates that they would have spent the same amount had they opted for a local wedding instead. Cost aside, their wedding experience would have lacked the same Hawaiian essence had they tied the knot anywhere but Maui.

“We wouldn’t have had the fun, tropical vibe that we loved,” the bride says. “It was so fun to have people there for multiple days. We had a few pre-wedding events, so we were able to spend more time with our guests. People were on vacation mode, so I would like to think they enjoyed the wedding more than had it been at home.”

James and Christina’s Hawaiian nuptials perfectly captured the love they share for Maui with a destination wedding that was as beautiful as the love they share for each other.

Vendors: Photographer: Anna Kim Photography; Wedding Planner: Kristen Sterback with Sugar Beach Events; Ceremony/Reception Site: Sugar Beach Events; Florist: Bella Bloom; Stationery: Paper Bloom Studio; Hair & Makeup: MeiLi Autumn Beauty; Gown Designer: Anna Campbell; Bridesmaids Pre-Wedding Pajamas: Piyama; DJ: Maui DJ Services; Calligraphy: Miss B. Calligraphy; Entertainment: Manutea Nui E; Table Rentals: Set Maui