Accessible exoticism
Wedding and honeymoon clients enamored with fantasy-like settings have access to getaways both far-flung and closer to home. But with the Hawaiian Islands, they bask in an exotic locale with a hook: The remote escape requires no passport, currency exchange or Rosetta Stone crash course. Read More
For those looking to take the matrimonial plunge Hawaiian-island-style, many hotels and condominium resorts offer on-site wedding coordinators who can arrange ceremonies at gazebos, on beaches or in lavish gardens.
Agents can also develop partnerships with independent planners who bundle all the wedding bells and whistles for off-property venues.
"There are so many different locations on each island with their own unique amenities and natural beauty that appeal to each bride differently," said Frank Robinson, founder of Island Events.
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obinson pointed out that other tropical destinations "may not be able to meet a couple's expectation level as it relates to their wedding or even how they're communicated with overall. That's not the case here, since Hawaii-based planners are able to deliver on those expectations by managing our local partnerships."
Both Robinson and Stacy Mallory with In Heaven Weddings suggest couples weave Hawaiian elements into their ceremonies.
"We do a lot of smaller weddings on the beach," Mallory said. "And we'll blend in things like the blowing of the conch, Hawaiian chant, lei exchange between the bride and groom, ancient hula and rings blessed with ti leaf and ocean water held in a native koa bowl. It all has very significant meaning to Hawaii, the land and its ancestors."
For larger destination wedding groups or those seeking more intimate accommodations, recommend private vacation homes and vacation condominiums available from companies like Aston Hotels & Resorts, Outrigger Hotels & Resorts, Destination Hotels & Resorts, Parrish Collection and Tropical Villa Vacations.
It's important for couples to know that Hawaiian Islands weddings held in public settings require a state or county permit, depending on the location. Both on-site and independent planners can obtain permits and marriage licenses on their behalf. Hawaii does not require a blood test or a waiting period. Couples simply need to present an official state ID, federal ID or passport when applying. For more information on licenses, visit www.hawaii.gov/doh.
For getting hitched without a glitch, Starwood has partnered with Hawaii's Department of Health to open its own licensing office at the Sheraton Waikiki. The agency has similar arrangements at the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa and the Four Seasons Resort Lanai.
Hotel guests can tie the knot at the on-site chapel at the Westin Moana Surf-rider. The company plans to open an oceanfront chapel on the second floor of the Sheraton Waikiki and at the Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort.
To connect your clients with qualified wedding coordinators, visit www.oahuweddingassociation.com, www.mauiweddingassociation.com and www.kauaiwedpro.com.