Lanikuhonua Event and Wedding Expo TOMORROW

Lanikuhonua, one of O'ahu's most popular venues for weddings and events, is hosting a highly anticipated Event and Wedding Expo tomorrow at the venue itself, situated in the beautiful Ko'Olina area.  Anyone looking for an outdoor, oceanfront site for a special event will surely benefit by attending.  It is an opportunity to see Lanikuhonua all dressed up, and will feature drawing for great prizes, food, beverage, entertainment, and an array of vendors who can help make an outdoor wedding or event come to fruition.  Participating vendors include caterers, rental companies, entertainment providers, planners, floral designers, decor companies, and more!  To attend this event, which is open to the public, purchase tickets purchase in advance at tix.com or or pay at the door.  Admission is $25 for adults, $12.50 for children 6-12 years old, and it is free for kids under six.  For more information, e-mail or call 808-674-3360.

We love weddings at Lanikuhonua.  It offers stunning views of the ocean and coastline, some of the best sunsets to be found in Hawai'i, an abundance of free parking, and vast open spaces, representing a blank canvas for designing unique and special events.  Here are a few photos from events we have planned there over the years, to provide a sense for how the space can come to life and be transformed for weddings.

Photo by Chrissy Lambert Photography

Photo by Dave Miyamoto & Company

Photo by Stephen Ludwig Fotographi + Art

Photo by Christie Pham Photography

Photo by Marcia Campbell

Photo by Chrissy Lambert Photography

Photo by Eugene Kam Photography

Happy Planning!

Mona

neu events

(formerly known as "Weddings by Grace and Mona")

When Is the Best Time of Year to Get Married in Hawaii?

I have to chuckle whenever a destination bride or groom asks me what the weather is like during a certain time of the year in Hawai'i.  My answer is usually something like, "it is probably going to be pretty much like today, warm - in the 80s."  As the saying goes, "lucky we live Hawaii," where our tropical climate varies very little from month to month, and where there's never a need for a trench coat or heavy jacket (unless, of course, it is to make a fashion statement).

Photo by Jim Creed

In all honesty, we do have some variation in weather.  We get a little more rain here between the months of November and March, and at nights, temperatures drop by around 10 degrees.  During the summers, we usually see temperature highs in the upper 80s and during the winters, low 80s.  Easy-peasy.

Photo by Chrissy Lambert Photography

There are other factors to think about when planning for a wedding month or date.  Consider the following:

May - this is a great month for peonies, an extremely popular bloom for weddings, and since this is the height of their growing season, floral designers can most easily obtain these flowers in the month of May.  Remember, however, that in May, we have many proms, graduations, and Mothers Day, which make the demand for flowers and leis higher, and thus, we tend to see higher pricing during this month.

Summer - this is a great time of year for pikake (jasmine flowers) and for pakalana, small, fragrant flowers that are exquisite in leis.  These local blossoms are particularly abundant in the summer.  It is also when we experience a peak in travel to Hawaii, with many families spending their vacation here in our islands.  This translates to higher demand for hotel rooms, so room rates are pricier and rooms do book quickly, so early planning for a summer wedding is always advisable.

Holidays - many couples are drawn to the holidays and three day weekends for a wedding.  Because the demand for wedding venues and services is higher during holidays, the couple that plans with a short lead time will find slim pickings for a long weekend.  For the "bigger" holidays in Hawaii:  Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's, vendors and venues may also charge a premium, as they themselves incur increased labor costs for holiday pay, and it also means time away from their loved ones on what is traditionally considered time spent with family.

To best address timing specific to your wedding, speak with a wedding planner.  He or she can provide any pros and cons regarding a certain date and can even advise as to best day of the week for you.

Happy Planning!
Mona

neu events
(formerly known as "Weddings by Grace and Mona")

Destination Weddings in Waikiki - A Look at Pros and Cons

Gorgeous view of Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach from the Sheraton Waikiki.  Photo by Eclat Photography.

As a wedding planner, part of my job is to help couples weigh pros and cons regarding the numerous decisions they need to make regarding their wedding.  I recently had a bride ask for my thoughts about holding a wedding in Waikiki.  Here are some things I shared with her...

While Waikiki can feel a bit hurried at times, with traffic being a bit of a bear, it offers so many advantages.

Proximity to the beach.  If at an ocean-front property, the views of the water and of the iconic Diamond Head are spectacular, but anyplace in Waikiki is no more than a block or two from the beach, so photographers can easily take couples out for photos with their toes in the sand.

Nearby accommodations.  Waikiki boasts a slew of options for accommodations, ranging from budget to luxury, and includes resorts, hotels, boutique hotels, condo-tels, and rental units.  Guests can choose a place to stay in walking distance, at a price point comfortable for them.

This means that the wedding can probably be planned without regard for providing transportation to and from the wedding site for guests, since the assumption is that most guests will stay nearby.

Moments before the wedding in one of the beautiful guest rooms of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel.

Mild(er) weather.  Believe it or not, it can rain in one part of the island, and yet be perfectly dry in another.  Seldom do we find ourselves making a "rain call" to move a wedding ceremony indoors.

Overall, if looking for a wide, expansive space of country-side, Waikiki is not for you.  Overall, however, the benefits far outweigh the small disadvantages to holding a wedding in Waikiki.  That said, a wedding is one of those lifetime events where the decision on where to celebrate that special occasion is a very personal one.  Fortunately, we have numerous venues here in Hawai 'i, and there is sure to be someplace to please just about any couple.  Hiring a wedding planner can help a couple to seek out the best, and sometimes, little known venues.  I encourage couples to enjoy the venue search and to remember, it should not feel like work, but rather, part of the exciting time in life of being engaged, and a part of the journey in preparing for a wedding.

Happy Planning!

Mona

neu events

(formerly known as "Weddings by Grace and Mona")

Things to Know about Wedding Flowers

When it comes to the aesthetic of a wedding, much of it can be defined by the use of flowers, and for many, flowers rank high on their list of wedding-related priorities.  Often, brides have their heart set on a certain flower type(s) to help achieve their wedding vision, but it is worthwhile to bear in mind certain realities when it comes to flowers, particularly here in Hawai'i.

Ceremony flowers by Flowers by Jane.  Photo by Dylan Dawson Photography.

Being an island state comes with many obvious advantages, and along with it, challenges as well; we do not have the luxury of flower markets similar to SF where cut flowers are abundant and readily available.  In fact, lots of popular wedding flowers, even some of the tropical ones are shipped in (including orchids!).   Many floral designers' policies or contracts will specifically note that they will do their best to meet flower requests, but will also reserve the right to substitute flowers if need be.

Here are some scenarios where flower substitutions may occur.

• damages occurring during shipping
• shipments held up in customs
• flowers out of season
• flowers were different (i.e. smaller than/varying in color) from what was ordered
• weather hardships prevent growers from fulfilling their orders
• most recently, we were even learned that some suppliers of red flowers were refraining from taking orders now in anticipation of Valentine's!

Bridal bouquet by Spinning WEB Florist.  Photo by Chrissy Lambert Photography.

We, as wedding planners, want to see every couple's wedding wishes come true.  With regard to flowers, we encourage couples to gather inspiration images that help convey their desired style, and we work closely with reputable floral designers to help ensure this, too.  While there are indeed challenges with flowers, understanding this and working with a great designer will best put you on your way to being a happy bride or groom on your wedding day.

Bridal bouquet and boutonniere by Spinning WEB Florist.  Photo by Chrissy Lambert Photography.

Happy planning!

Mona

neu events

(formerly known as "Weddings by Grace and Mona")

Tips and Advice: proper care for your gown

Photo by Chrissy Lambert Photography

We tote in our wedding day emergency kit just about everything for attending to spills and stains:  Shout wipes, Tide pens, baby powder, chalk,... but before we apply any products to a wedding gown, we prefer to know how your gown salon recommends treating your special garment.  While many assume that a detergent wipe can fix anything, certain fabrics just don't seem to get along with even the least bit of moisture.  In fact, delicate fabrics can be ruined with an application of just plain water.

Photo by Chrissy Lambert Photography

Before your big day, inquire with your bridal salon about the proper care of your wedding gown.  Ask about how to treat a possible lipstick stain from a well-wishing guest, or a grass stain from walking across an outdoor courtyard, or a soiled spot from a bit of spilled cocktail.  It never hurts to be prepared for those "just in case" moments, especially with an article of clothing as precious as a wedding gown.

Happy planning!
Mona
neu events
(formerly known as Weddings by Grace and Mona)

Wedding planning tip: cake timing

Towering square tiered cake featuring black and white checks for a racing themed wedding, designed by Rick of cakelava.  Rick was truly ahead of his time, as he was designing ombre hued cakes before ombre even became a wedding trend!  Photo by Chrissy Lambert Photography.

Here's a simple piece of advice related to your wedding cake, particularly if planning your wedding on your own.

Chocolate ribbons stream down the sides of this four-tiered wedding cake designed by the Halekulani.  Photo by Visionari.

Ask your cake baker or designer about the number of hours that the cake can be left out of refrigeration.

Yet another stunning creation by Rick Reichart of cakelava.  This towering cake combines a modern and whimsical look, with varying shapes and heights.  Photo by Sieber Studio.

Make sure then that the time between having your cake delivered and the time of your cake cutting and serving is less than the maximum number of hours that the cake can be unrefrigerated.

Another fabulous cake!  This show-stopping cake was created by Cake Works for a wedding we planned at the Sheraton Waikiki.  Photo by Eclat Photography.

Note that in Hawaii, particularly with outdoor weddings, we have some particularly warm and sunny days, and the length of time for a cake to be left outdoors thus shortens.

Pretty in Pink - cascading fresh flowers in shades of pink adorn this simply elegant cake.  Photo by Dave Miyamoto and Company.

The last thing anyone wants to see is a beautiful wedding cake that starts to slide, collapse, or melt so again, be sure to consult your cake provider to ensure that your cake looks its best throughout its time on display.

cakelava designed this one of a kind cake for our couple, Deb and Keola, who chose shades of purple and yellow for their wedding.  Photo by AmodoPhoto.

Happy Planning!
Mona
neu events
(formerly Weddings by Grace and Mona)

Tips and Advice: picking a veil with the right comb

Photo by Chrissy Lambert Photography

I just attended a hair and make-up trial session at the Naturally You studio with our bride who will be getting married this week, and hair and make-up artist extraordinaire, CJ Bae of Naturally You, shared with me a fantastic tip that I thought merited a blog entry of its own. With regard to veils, often times, they come attached to combs to secure to the bride's hair. Not all veils need to be secured with a comb, and some simply require a few bobby pins for keeping the veil in place, but if selecting one with a comb, opt for the metal combs as opposed to the plastic varieties.

Photo by Dave Miyamoto and Company

Often times, brides will don their veil for the wedding ceremony and formal picture taking, then will remove their veil, which may be a bit cumbersome to wear with guests giving the bride many hugs, and with it being less easy to move around with, for the reception. The plastic comb on a veil, however, will leave dents or marks in the bride's beautiful hair style, whereas the metal combs do not. Today's tip: if selecting the type of veil that has a comb attached to it, pick the "dent-free" option and go for one with a metal comb.

Kana with her veil for the formal picture taking, and without it following the ceremony. Photo by Visionari.

Waialua Soda Works: island-made sodas perfect for destination weddings

Photos by Chrissy Lambert Photography

I don't quite remember when I first came across a bottle of Waialua Soda, but I do remember the cute label with the retro hula dancer, and the fun tropical flavors. In recent years, they've become mainstays at local eateries and supermarkets, and now, even at weddings!

I love the idea of providing guests who travel to Hawaii with welcome gifts delivered to their hotel rooms, particularly when those gifts contain delightful island-made products. In the welcome basket shown below, guests received bags of Hawaiian Isle coffee, a tropical scented loofah-soap, and of course, bottles of Waialua Soda, perfect for enjoying in their rooms. The colorful labels add a cheerful touch to the gift.


Waialua Sodas also make great beverages at off-premise events where providing your own drinks is encouraged. Pop off the cap, stick a bright colored straw in it, and you've got a fun drink which also looks fantastic in photos. Some couples will even choose the flavors that tie in with their wedding colors: Root Beer (ivory and brown), Pineapple (sky blue and yellow), Mango (chartreuse green and orange), Vanilla Cream (wheat and ivory), Lilikoi (bubblegum pink and pastel pink), and Kona Red (ivory and red). My personal favorite: pineapple! Best yet, if your wedding is taking place on the island of O'ahu, the folks at Waialua Soda Works deliver free of charge with a two-case minimum purchase. Can't beat that!