Robert and Alexa met “the old fashioned way,” at a bar, but after their love blossomed and it came time to tie the knot, they opted for a non-traditional path.

“We love to travel and some of our best memories together are from various vacations, especially in Hawaii,” the couple says. “And a destination wedding offered us the opportunity to have a more intimate gathering.”

Selecting the venue came almost as easily as the destination. The Four Seasons Maui already held wonderful memories from Robert and Alexa’s previous visits to the Rainbow State. What better location to say their vows than at a resort already near and dear to their hearts?

Unfortunately, right when it seemed nothing could take the wind out of the couple’s sails, COVID-19 hit. Not only did it pose a challenge to travel logistics, but the Pandemic brought on quite a bit of turnover in every industry, especially hospitality. This meant Alexa and Robert’s point of contact for The Four Seasons Maui wedding team changed several times.

“We found it best to work with our own planner who could coordinate directly with the hotel planner,” the couple says. “This was a great solution for us.”

Leah of Your Big Day Of proved to be Alexa and Robert’s secret to a successful, less stressful planning experience. The bride felt Leah truly understood the couple’s style, so handing the reins over didn’t pose any anxiety.

“She made everything so simple and found all of the vendors that we needed,” Alexa says.

With the peace of mind that each detail would be executed to perfection, the couple opted not to overwhelm themselves with DIY projects. However, the bride’s mother did contribute much of her time to folding 1001 origami paper cranes and stringing them to use as additional decor. This also provided a tribute to Alexa’s Asian-American heritage, while the traditional chuppah paid homage to Robert’s Jewish background.

Ultimately, Robert and Alexa tell us choosing a destination wedding over a hometown allowed them to spend quality time with everyone in attendance. Plus, more of the budget could be allotted towards making the event extra luxurious with the finest of details.

The couple imparted their wisdom to us in hopes of encouraging all you couples out there wondering whether a destination wedding is really worth it. 

“A destination wedding won’t initially feel like the easiest or most convenient option, but it allows for so many other wonderful experiences. Not everyone will be able to make it, but it will still be the best and most amazing experience.”

Vendors: Photo/Video: Chris J. Evans; Planner: Your Big Day Of; Venue: Four Seasons Maui; Beauty: Meili Autumn Beauty; Florals: Country Bouquets Maui; DJ: KCK Entertainment; Stationery: Minted; Gown Designer: Berta; Groom’s Clothing Designer: Suit Supply; Wedding Submission Services: Published + Pretty