Location: Kauai, Hawaii, USA
Setting: Botanical Gardens, Lotus Meadow
Season: Spring
How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
The number of guests: 11
Wedding theme/style: Luxurious, tropical, Hawaiian.
Lauren and Preston’s journey began when they met at 18 and has flourished ever since. United for over a dozen years, they embody a harmony that resonates in every aspect of their lives together. They are a laid-back and happy couple, cherishing moments spent with loved ones, showing the essence of togetherness in its most genuine form. These two love good food and trying local eateries and beer wherever they go. Often you’ll find them in the quiet comfort of their home, piecing together puzzles or watching mystery series. During one of these beautiful and cozy days, after cooking at home Lauren’s favorite, Thai fusion tacos, Preston asked her to marry him.
The couple decided to kick off their wedding week with a private catamaran sail along the iconic Na Pali Coast. Their schedule included a rehearsal dinner at the breathtaking 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, leading up to their wedding day’s main event.
Selecting Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens as their venue mirrored the couple’s deep appreciation for nature and their desire for a calming, cozy ambiance. The botanical garden offered a tranquil and backdrop setting, setting the perfect stage for their intimate spring wedding.
Lauren looked stunning in a traditional white gown with a plunging V-neckline, complemented by white sneakers with pearls – a very nontraditional choice. Her look featured relaxed surf-curls and a flawless makeup, creating a blend of elegance and comfort.
Preston was wearing a muted blue suit with brown leather shoes and watches. His attire perfectly complemented Lauren’s, together creating a picture of timeless elegance.
Amid the rainy forest, Lauren and Preston shared their first look. Then, standing together on the cliff’s edge, they embraced tender moments against the breathtaking backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. The powerful waves echoed the strength of their bond, creating a poignant and unforgettable scene.
The wedding ceremony took place in a secluded corner of the garden, under an arch adorned with vibrant tropical flowers. This idyllic deep green setting enriched with colorful blossoms and palm leaves perfectly complemented Lauren’s bridal bouquet. The couple exchanged vows surrounded by this tropical beauty, creating an atmosphere of romance and tranquility. The moment they sealed their promises with a kiss, the joy of their loved ones expressed in the warmest hugs, marking the beginning of their new journey together.
After the ceremony, Lauren and Preston shared a moment alone, reflecting on their journey and the commitment they had just made. This intimate pause allowed them to savor the significance of their special day.
The couple intentionally hosted an authentic Hawaiian aesthetic throughout their wedding day. Their priority was to host a luxurious, tropical Hawaiian affair. The lovebirds wanted to embrace all things Hawaii – from the food to the flowers to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience for their closest family and friends.
Their planners Taryn Stark Wyant utilized local tropical blooms and foliage with the incomparable design skills of Moss Floral Design, as well as locally inspired decor such as rattan pendants, natural wood farm tables, woven charger plates, and tropical-toned dinnerware.
The reception setting had varying shades of pink, and accented with local blooms and foliage, tropical fruits, and the gentle flicker of candles. The decor seamlessly blended the local charm with sophistication – rattan pendants, natural wood farm tables, woven charger plates, and dinnerware in tropical tones, all set under the warm glow of lights.
A unique and heartwarming touch was the incorporation of the couple’s beloved cats into the signature cocktail menu, a playful nod to their furry family members. Each dish during the dinner was thoughtfully paired with a specialty wine, handpicked by the couple and a sommelier, creating an engaging and personalized dining experience for their petit group. In a twist to tradition, the bride surprised the groom with a donut tower topped with a traditional cutting cake. Donuts are his absolute favorite, and he couldn’t have been more excited!
At dinner, the couple chose to host a wine pairing curated by Sugar Beach Events. They collaborated with the sommelier to select specialty wines for each course, crafting an intimate and interactive experience for their small group.
The evening went with an intimate dinner with music, rather than traditional dancing or speeches, emphasizing the couple’s low-key and relaxed style. This choice highlighted the couple’s relaxed style, adding a personal touch to the evening’s ambiance.
The floral arrangements, crafted by Moss Floral Design, played a significant role in setting the wedding’s ambiance. Their expertise in creating a tropical paradise with local blooms added a vibrant touch to the occasion. We admire their ability to integrate Hawaiian flowers like proteas, orchids, plumerias into the decor of the whole wedding and all locations, including bridal colorful bouquet. Couple shared that their wedding day embodied everything they hoped for.
Advice from the couple:
• Starting the next chapter of your life in an extraordinary place with your closest family and friends.
FLORALS Moss Floral Design | PLANNER & DESIGN Taryn Stark Wyant | VENUE Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens | PHOTOGRAPHER Sass Photo | MUAH Maui Makeup Artistry | CELEBRANT Frieda Gayle | CATERING & BAR Sugar Beach Events | DJ & PRODUCTION KCK Entertainment, CaboStrings | RENTALS Kauai Event Design, Mahi Tent and Events | LINEN BBJ La Tavola | TABLEWEAR Destination Events Hawaii | CALLIGRAPHY Hawai’i Calligraphy
