Missy and Jonathan met in the summer of 2004 in their hometown of Hilo, Hawaii. After dating and once Missy was near the end of her medical residency, Jonathan decided to pop the question. The couple planned a month-long trip to Iceland with their friends, during which Jonathan planned to propose. Due to the unpredictable weather, Jonathan could not plan on a specific day or time. The groom and his friends came up with a code phrase: “There’s a rock in my shoe,” giving his friends a heads-up to start recording and taking pictures.  

On the fifth day, the couple was blessed with sunny weather. While Missy was taking in the sunset over Iceland’s northern coast, Jonathan knew this was his moment. “I have a rock in my shoe,” he said cuing his friends. Missy said “yes” to the proposal with the Kirkjufell Mountain behind them. 

Thailand has always been on the bride and groom’s bucket list, so having their wedding there was an easy decision. Family and friends responded exactly how the pair hoped. “They packed their bags and jumped on a plane with us!” says the bride and groom. 

The newlyweds consider themselves non-traditional and chose to have an intimate destination wedding in Thailand to experience a new culture. The bride and groom chose Samujana, because it allowed them more privacy in addition to its beautiful surroundings. The main objective for their wedding was to show their 40 guests a good time. “Having our family and friends travel so far to share our wedding day made it extra special to us,” the bride says.

The ceremony décor was tropical and enchanting with a modern feel. Missy and Jonathan exchanged vows with a breathtaking sunset and beautiful flower wall backdrop. 

“Our night was filled with love, laughter, dancing the night away and just having a good time with the people we love,” Missy says. “The private fireworks show for the finale was amazing!”

This article first appeared in Destination I Do’s Spring/Summer 2019 issue. You can order a copy here.

Vendors: Photographer: Jenna Lee Pictures; Videographer: Seeking Films; Wedding Planner: The Wedding Bliss Thailand; Ceremony/Reception Site: Samujana; Florist: IAMFLOWER; Gown Designer and Veil: Koa & White Hot Hawaii; Groom’s Clothing Designer: Tom Ford; Bride’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin; Jewelry: Cartier and Tiffany & Co.; Groom’s Shoes: Magnanni; Groom’s Watch: Rolex; Groomsmen’s Outfit: Ted Baker; Groomsmen’s Shoes: Cole Haan; Groomsmen’s Bowties: Brackish; Groomsmen’s Watches: Hamilton; Bridesmaids’ Dresses: White Hot Hawaii; Bridesmaids’ Shoes: Christian Louboutin