A large share of the couples I photograph on Oahu are not from Hawaii. They live on the mainland, sometimes internationally, and are planning a wedding or elopement in a place they may only visit once or twice before the big day. If that is you, here is what to know about planning a destination wedding in Hawaii from a distance.

PLANNING YOUR TRIP AROUND YOUR WEDDING

Most out of state couples build their trip around the wedding day itself, arriving several days early to settle in, adjust to the time change, and handle any last minute details. I recommend building in at least one buffer day before the wedding in case of travel delays, and treating the days after as time to actually enjoy being married instead of rushing to the airport.

HOW MUCH TIME YOU ACTUALLY NEED ON THE ISLAND

For a wedding or elopement with portraits, five to seven days is a comfortable window. It gives you time to recover from the flight, do a walkthrough of your ceremony location, fit in an extra portrait session if you want one, and still have a day or two to relax as a married couple before heading home.

WORKING WITH A PHOTOGRAPHER SIGHT UNSEEN

Booking a photographer thousands of miles away, without meeting in person, is one of the biggest leaps of faith in planning a destination wedding. I handle every consultation by video call or phone, share a full portfolio and past couples' galleries, and stay available by email throughout your planning process so you know exactly what to expect before you arrive.

COORDINATING VENDORS FROM AFAR

Hair, makeup, florals, and coordination are all easier when your vendors are used to working with out of state couples. I am happy to recommend trusted local vendors I have worked with before, which can save you a significant amount of research and back and forth.

WHAT TO PACK AND PREPARE FOR HAWAII WEATHER

Hawaii's weather is warm and humid year round, with the chance of a passing shower even on a mostly sunny day. Lightweight, breathable fabrics photograph best, and it is worth packing a backup outfit or cover up just in case. I also recommend building a little flexibility into your ceremony time so we can chase the best light.

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR TIME AFTER THE WEDDING

Since you have already made the trip, consider extending your stay for a few days afterward. Many couples add on a sunrise or sunset portrait session once the wedding stress is behind them, which often results in some of their favorite images from the whole trip.

Planning a wedding from thousands of miles away is a lot to manage, but you do not have to figure out the logistics alone. Visit the Oahu wedding and elopement page to see full pricing and details, or reach out and I will help you plan a trip that makes the most of your time in Hawaii.