Love has a funny way of bringing people together, and for Ashley and Jay, it was the digital world that played cupid. Meeting on Match in October 2018, they quickly discovered their shared love for adventure and travel. Two years later, in July 2020, they decided to take the plunge and got engaged. With their hearts set on a destination wedding, they sought to create a magical and stress-free celebration that would transport them and their loved ones to the tropical paradise of Maui.

“We love traveling and getting away from the everyday stresses of life,” the couple says.

When it came to choosing the perfect venue, Ashley and Jay knew exactly what they wanted. They found a picturesque location by the ocean with an expansive lawn, providing the ideal backdrop for both the ceremony and reception. Olowalu Plantation House‘s beauty and proximity to the ocean made it an irresistible choice. It was a place where Maui wedding dreams were destined to come true.

The couple envisioned a wedding that would reflect their personalities and love for travel. With the assistance of their talented wedding planner, Kristen of Opihi Love Wedding and Events, they were able to bring their vision to life. The decor was a blend of tropical elements and elegant touches. The color palette consisted of hues of pink, ivory, light coral, and pops of yellow, reminiscent of a Hawaiian sunset. Lush tropical greenery added a natural and whimsical feel to the atmosphere.

“We incorporated some tropicals with touches of spring flowers to create a mix that used the flowers of Hawaii,” planner, Kristen, says.

Planning a destination wedding from afar can be a daunting task, but Ashley and Jay were fortunate to have the guidance of Kristen. With her expertise and support, they navigated the challenges of organizing a Maui wedding.

“We did do a pre-wedding site visit prior to booking the venue,” the couple says, “and we are so happy we did so we were able to envision everything!”

One of the unique elements of Ashley and Jay’s wedding was the personalized drink toppers that doubled as place cards. Each guest had a topper with their name, adding a special touch to the reception. It was a DIY project that showcased the couple’s attention to detail and their desire to make every guest feel cherished.

The ceremony was a heartwarming affair that incorporated both tradition and personal touches. Ashley walked down the aisle accompanied by their 8-year-old daughter, a beautiful symbol of their love and unity as a family. From the beginning to the end, they made sure their daughter was an integral part of their Maui wedding.

“We wanted to incorporate her in all the special moments throughout the day including our first dance,” Ashley says.

Ashley and Jay’s Maui wedding was a testament to their love for each other and their shared sense of adventure. From their first online connection to the moment they exchanged vows in paradise, their journey had been filled with love, joy, and a desire to create lasting memories. Surrounded by their loved ones, they celebrated their union in a tropical paradise, where dreams really do come true.

Vendors: Photographer: MeewMeew Studios; Wedding Planner: Opihi Love Wedding and Events; Venue: Olowalu Plantation House; Florist: Bella Bloom Maui; Stationery: Olive Paperie Co.; Hair & Makeup: Maui Makeup Artistry; Gown Designer: Made with Love Bridal; Bridal Concierge: Maui Wedding Dress Pressing; Rentals: Rio Event Design & Yard Games Hawaii; Tabletop Rentals: Set Maui, Hostess Haven & Rêve Maui; Calligraphy: Miss B Calligraphy; Catering: Cutting Edge Catering; Entertainment: Manzano Entertainment; Transportation: Maui Tours and Transport; Bar: Maui Bars; DJ: Maui DJ Services