Hey, future Mr. & Mrs. Adventure! If the big wedding scene isn’t your jam, join the cool kids eloping in Hawaii. Legal stuff? Check. Amazing adventure in nature? Double check. Get the lowdown on the legal stuff, the dreamiest locations, and why Vanessa Arias Photography is your go-to for capturing those epic moments.
First things first, let’s talk about how to elope in Hawaii, legally:
In order to get married in Hawaii, you need a marriage license, and a registered marriage performer (pastor, priest, officiant, etc.). The good news? We can help with all that! We are your regular Hawaii photography team, but with a twist! We not only capture the memories of your special day, but we also want to help you create them.We believe your elopement should be as unique as your love story, and as Maui residents, we know all the secrets to make your day memorable. From finding an officiant you connect with, to guiding you through the process of choosing the right location, and creating out-of-the-box photo ideas on your day, we have got your back!
How to apply for a marriage license:
- Both parties must be at least 18 years old.
- Complete the online application with the Department of Health 30 days prior to your ceremony date.
- Pay the $65 fee.
How to find your ideal Hawaii wedding location:
When it comes to finding your dream wedding location in Hawaii, the options are as diverse as the islands themselves. Start by envisioning the backdrop that speaks to your love story – from golden beaches and lush tropical gardens to majestic waterfalls or panoramic mountain views. Leverage online resources like travel forums, destination wedding blogs, and social media platforms to tap into the experiences and recommendations of couples who have tied the knot in Hawaii.
When booking with Vanessa Arias Photography, you receive a free wedding guide with anything from recommended local vendors, our favorite island locations, and advice based on our experience as Hawaii wedding photographers.
Planning to tie the knot in Maui? Check out our latest blog on “Maui Elopement Destinations: Finding Your Dream Wedding Location.” From breathtaking beach ceremonies to traditional church weddings and private venue celebrations, discover the pros, cons, and insider tips on each option.
How to budget for your Hawaii elopement:
Navigating the budget for your Hawaii elopement involves considering factors such as the desired experience, guest count, venue privacy, and the vendors you choose. While prices fluctuate, our packages typically span from $1,200 to $5,000, providing a general overview of the investment range for your memorable Hawaiian celebration.
How to plan your Hawaii elopement:
Here’s the thing. We believe there are two different main reasons why you might be thinking of eloping:
- You’re not keen on splurging on a grand wedding. Instead, you’re looking to craft a meaningful and intimate ceremony with your partner or close ones. And where better to do that than in Hawaii?!
- For you, it’s not just about the money; it’s about crafting an unforgettable experience. You’re seeking something distinct, something uniquely yours. If you’re going to invest in this moment, why not channel it into creating an extraordinary travel experience tailored specifically for you?
If this sounds like you, grab a notebook and a pen. Sit down with your partner and have an honest conversation. You’ve chosen this path because you want to design your wedding in a way that truly reflects you! It’s not about pleasing others or conforming to social standards. This is an opportunity to create something uniquely special.
Consider these questions for discussion with your partner:
- If you had to choose just one vendor, which would you pick and why?For instance, would you opt for a bucket-list experience or location, even if it means limited access, no guests, or no music?
- Describe what you want to feel in that moment. Be as specific as possible about the emotions and atmosphere you envision.
- How much money can you spend on your elopement?
- Try this exercise: Outline the percentages of how you’d like to allocate your budget (e.g., 40% for the location, 30% for photography, 20% for adventure experiences, and 10% for music). While these percentages may shift over time, this exercise provides clarity on your priorities and helps you determine what matters most and where you’re willing to invest or cut costs.
Regardless if you are team #1, team #2, or both, we know you value the experience more than anything in the world. And we do too. But being aware of the reason why you are eloping can give your wedding planner a better idea of what you are looking for and can help you prioritize what truly matters to you.
You are not sure of what you want yet? No worries! You can book a consultation with us and our team can help tailor a beautiful experience for you!