Did you do any DIY Projects or create any handmade items for your wedding?
We had leis made from the local flower store, and my best friend made a pearl hair piece to be my “something new”.
What creative or personal aspects did you include in your wedding?
We wanted it to be intimate and traditional to the Hawaiian culture, so we had an officiant perform a traditional Hawaiian ceremony. This included a blowing of the conch shell, a blessing of our rings and leis, and a ceremonial song.
What is the most memorable moment of your day?
Marrying the love of my life! I was someone who never really thought I would find someone, and I was fine with that. Being there and in that moment knowing how amazing my husband is and how there wasn’t a doubt in my mind that he was my person – and that he believed the same thing – was something I don’t think anyone could truly explain.
What was the biggest thing you did to save money?
The biggest thing I did was not make the wedding about other people, and instead made it about just my now husband and I. It was just us on that beach and our officiant. By eloping in paradise we didn’t have to pay for anything besides our outfits, rings, and Simply Eloped.
What was your biggest splurge?
My biggest splurge for my wedding was probably just going through Simply Eloped. With them, all I had to do was pay for the service which was around $2,000 and they booked everything for me: the officiant, photographer, flowers, and venue. Everything else I paid for wasn’t that expensive.
What was your favorite detail?
My favorite detail was the traditonal ceremony that our officiant performed. The man was the sweetest person on this planet, and he explained every part of the traditon so that we would understand the importance.
What’s the best advice you have for planning your wedding now that you’re on the other side?
My best advice is remember that it is your day and not anyone else’s. I will never regret eloping somewhere beautiful, because we got to truly focus on each other.
