The Bridal Expo: July 23-25

This weekend, anyone planning a wedding, in the wedding industry, or even remotely interested in weddings and events ought to check out the 21st Annual Hawai'i Bridal Expo on O'ahu at the Blaisdell Center. The show, which takes place in January and July each year, features some of Hawai'i's newest and most experienced vendors as well as great venues and options for weddings.

It also offers a chance to see some of the latest styles in bridal apparel with a "roving fashion show" - models donning beautiful gowns and stylish tuxedos through the expo's aisles.

Even if not presently on the island of O'ahu, a flight over may be well worth the investment of time and money, given the opportunity to meet so many exhibitors all in a day. As a professional wedding planner, it is imperative that I remain informed of what vendors currently offer, so I make it a point to visit the expo and I also attend it with clients to introduce them to different ideas and options for their wedding.

Download a coupon for $1 off the regular $9 admission. Expo hours:

Friday, July 23, 5:30pm - 10:00pm
Saturday, July 24, 10:30am - 5:00pm
Sunday, July 25, 10:30am - 4:00pm

Also worth special note, for couples in need of wedding photography services, Liquid Light Images is offering two major specials for the expo. The first is a complimentary engagement session for any package over 6 hours (valued at $399). The second, in addition to the engagement session, for any full day package, is a complimentary 6x8 engagement book (valued at $699, $399 engagement, $300 engagement book).

Other vendors may be offering specials as well. Be sure to pay them a visit!

Engagement photos: Nancy and Lance

I have the great fortune and privilege of planning weddings for couples who sometimes touch my heart at its very core and make me feel so thankful to have what I consider to be the best job in the world. Nancy and Lance are one such couple. Their thoughtfulness and generosity make me feel like I am the one who is being taken care of, when it is really my responsibility to be looking after them.

Their recent engagement photos shot at the Hilton Hawaiian Village by George Wang of Eclat Photography capture some of their personalities, and definitely, their fun side!

I absolutely love this photo of Nancy - a portrait of style and grace.We are just a few weeks out before Nancy and Lance finally tie the knot. It will definitely be a stunning wedding and the guests are in for a treat! Looking forward to it!

To Nancy and Lance ~ I wish you lots of love and a lifetime of happiness!

Twist: experience it now!

Some of the most spectacular panoramic views from the heart of Waikiki has got to be those from Twist, formerly the Hanohano Room, at the top of the Sheraton Waikiki. It's a great place to take out of town guests to for cocktails or dinner, especially if able to get there before the sun sets. At night, the pretty city lights and stars paint the canvas that is floor to ceiling windows, showing off everything to the east, including Diamond Head, and everything to the west.

On top of just beautiful views, the restaurant and lounge offer delectable dishes. I recently had the pleasure of sampling just about everything on the menu, and found there to be something for everyone. Scrumptious lobster bisque, alae salt and rosemary grilled beef, and key lime mousse comprised some of the dishes making it to the top of my favorite list. If wanting to treat special guests to a wonderful rehearsal dinner, or if bringing the parents together for a meal before the wedding day, this site is perfect!

That said, Twist is slated to enjoy its last day in business on September 30, 2010 before the space is transformed into a club lounge for the hotel. Hurry now to enjoy all that Twist has to offer before it is too late!

Fourth of July

It's the Fourth of July! Happy Independence Day! Time to pause and remember the historical significance of this holiday...time for barbecues...and time for weddings?

July happens to be a fantastic month for weddings in Hawai'i. With longer days (= more time for outdoor, day-lit photos), great chances for ideal weather, and vacation time for guests with kids, July weddings are naturally desirable.

The Fourth of July holiday also makes the perfect time for fireworks! Choosing a July 4th wedding date naturally means evening skies aglow with spectacular fireworks displays - for free - if the location affords a view. Brides and grooms wanting sparklers for their weddings may also purchase them at this time, as their availability is limited to the period leading up to Independence Day and New Year's. (Sparklers may not be shipped in to Hawai'i, so be sure to plan ahead.)

One thing to bear in mind: weddings on holidays such as Independence Day will almost certainly mean increased costs. Check with your vendors and venue regarding higher holiday rates or labor fees for choosing a holiday.

Photo by Kris Labang Photography