Wedding Planning Tip: points to consider for your wedding cake topper

When our parents and grandparents tied the knot, wedding bells, plastic brides and grooms, or artificial doves adorned the tops of their wedding cakes.  Modern day weddings, however, feature a wide selection of unique cake toppers, enabling couples to personalize the look of their cake.  Before purchasing or special ordering that "must-have" topper, be sure to consider:

Photo by HelmutWalker Photography

• diameter of the topper - make sure that the top of the cake is wide enough to fit the topper or vice versa, that the cake topper you are ordering is of a size proportional for the top tier of the cake.
• weight of the topper - with toppers available now in all kinds of materials, check with your cake maker (prior to your wedding day) to see whether the cake can support the weight of the topper.  If not, the cake maker may need to reinforce the cake with dowels or supports, or he/she may suggest not placing the topper on the cake at all.
• material of the topper - couples sometimes get creative by choosing something out of the ordinary to serve as a cake topper.  If doing so, be sure to check whether it is made of non-toxic materials if planning to actually consume the top tier of cake.

Happy Planning!

Mona

neu events

(formerly known as Weddings by Grace and Mona)

Photo by Kai Photo

I'll Have a Cone, Please! (petal cones for your flower shower)

What could be more romantic than rose petals fluttering over you as you recess down the aisle or exit the church?  It certainly makes for a picture-perfect moment, and enhances the sentiments of joy and celebration.  Without a doubt, the flower shower serves as the perfect ending to a heartfelt and momentous wedding ceremony.

Photo by Visonari at the Halekulani Hau Terrace in Waikiki.

However, what the photos do not reveal is the logistics behind the creation of that picture-perfect moment.  Particularly for outdoor ceremonies, when the flower shower takes places immediately after the kiss and announcement of the newlyweds, how do the guests get the petals for tossing?  Do they hold a handful of petals throughout the entire ceremony until that moment that the couple passes?

Photo by L'amour Photography

We suggest providing guests with a cone or receptacle for the petals.  While purely functional, they can be made to coordinate with the colors and style of the wedding, and we like it best when they tie in with the "day-of" wedding stationery!  Often times, local stationers will string a ribbon through the cone, so that the guests may easily take one, or so that they can be hung from the ceremony chair.  

Photo by Visionari.

Here are a few examples of some custom designed cones.  Perhaps they will provide you with inspiration for cones of your own!

Happy Planning!

Mona

neu events

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

Cones by Emi Emi Ink.  Photo by Visionari.

Cones by Something Blue.  Photo by L'amour Photography.

Cones by Emi Ink.  Photo by Kai Photo.

Petal cones by Emi Ink.  Photo by Eclat Photography.

Wedding Planning Withdrawals?

Many brides and even grooms after their wedding have told me about "wedding withdrawals," that feeling of not knowing what to do with the sudden increase of free time; of missing their wedding planning; of not having their wedding to look forward to anymore...but wait! Just because your wedding may have come and gone, there remain a few tasks to keep track of after the wedding has taken place. Be sure to keep these items on your radar:

• head to the bank - immediately after your wedding, deposit any monetary gifts

Photo by Kai Photo

• gown preservation - if keeping your gown, have your gown cleaned and preserved, and particularly if your gown is soiled or stained, do this as soon as possible

Photo by Kai Photo

• thank yous - remember to send out thank you notes to all those who contributed to your wedding with a gift or by lending their help and support
• name change - if taking on a different name in marriage, have all official records, accounts, licenses, etc. updated with your new name
• select photos for album - if ordering an album, choose photos and get the album design process underway quickly, as this may easily be one of those items that get placed on the back burner and forgotten
• relive the memories - enjoy reminiscing about your wedding by viewing your wedding photos and video

Photo by Kris Labang Photography

Happy post-planning!

Mona

Obtaining a Marriage License in Hawaii

To "tie the knot" legally in Hawai'i, whether a local resident or traveling from elsewhere, the process is much simpler and speedier now than in years past. As of January 1, 2012, the State of Hawai'i's Department of Health took another step toward the digital age by facilitating the process of applying for a marriage license, filing it, and obtaining a legal marriage certificate online.

Couples may apply for their marriage license online and then the two must appear in person before a marriage agent or at the Department of Health to pick up the license worksheet. The application costs $60 and the application processing fee costs another $5, payable online or in person when submitting the application to the licensed marriage agent. Upon approval of the application, the license is issued immediately thereafter and is good for 30 days. The marriage license enables couples to legally get married anywhere in the State of Hawaii.

On the day of the wedding, the licensed officiant then goes on-line to confirm that s/he has legally married the couple. The Department of Health then reviews this registration, which requires a full business day. The next day, assuming everything passes review, the married couple may download an official marriage certificate, good for 90 days, until the permanent one is sent to them in the mail by the Department of Health.

Gone are the days of signing an official document at the ceremony.

Photo by Kai Photo

Gone, too, are the days of forgetting the marriage license at home on the day of the wedding! While the tradition of signing the license will be no more, the tradeoff of easier filing and quicker turnaround should make it all worthwhile.

For more information, visit http://hawaii.gov/health/vital-records/vital-records/marriage/index.html.

Flower Showers, Bubble Showers, and Feather Showers...oh my!

Photo by Amodo Photo

It appears the tradition of throwing rice, symbolizing the bestowing of prosperity on the bride and groom, has become "untraditionalized," evidenced by the fact that in 12 years of planning weddings, we have not once witnessed a wedding where rice was thrown. It is said that the uncooked grains of rice pose health risks to the birds who might eat them. However, several pretty alternatives exist, and make for great photos, too.

Photo by Kai Photo

One of the most popular in Hawaii, would be the tossing of rose petals. They seem to drift upon the couple, truly highlighting them as the stars of the day.

For guests' ease, petals may be inserted into petal cones like these, designed by Emi Ink, to match with the rest of the couple's wedding stationery.

Photo by Kai Photo

These petals cones, sweetly affixed to the backs of the chairs, and feature petals in the form of the original rose blooms.

Bubbles make for beautiful photos as well...

Photo by Kai Photo

As do a mixture of petals, bubbles, and feathers...

Photo by Eclat Photography

Consider the look you would prefer your wedding and choose accordingly. Happy Planning!

Tips and Advice: selecting the right people to be on your bridal party

Photo by Eugene Kam Photography

I cannot underscore enough the importance of picking the right people to serve as your bridesmaids and groomsmen. On several occasions in my wedding planning career, brides and grooms have confided in me, sharing their frustration with the bridesmaid who seldom calls back... or the groomsman whose arm has to be twisted to go in for a tuxedo fitting... or the opinionated bridal party member who shoots down all of the bride's ideas for her wedding... or even the groomsmen who never plan a bachelor "outing" for the groom... It breaks my heart when couples do not receive the support they should when preparing for such a significant occasion in their lives.

Part of the problem lies in the choice of bridal party members. Often times, couples select bridesmaids and groomsmen out of obligation. They feel they ought to ask certain people to be on their bridal party because this is their oldest friend, or their future sister/brother-in-law, or because the other person asked him/her to be on that person's bridal party previously... There are countless reasons why couples have chosen someone to be on their bridal party just because they felt they should.

However, I would urge couples to instead consider those individuals who will truly take their role as bridesmaid or groomsman to heart. These people should be ones who sincerely care for the bride and groom, and who will take an active part in helping the bride or groom ensure the success of their wedding. Such bridesmaids and groomsmen, maids of honor and best men, make all the difference in seeing to it that the bride and groom enjoy not just their wedding day, but the process of planning it leading up to that special occasion.

Photo by Kris Labang Photography

I have witnessed a number of instances where members of the bridal party have gone above and beyond the call of duty to make the bride's or groom's experience extra special. Some will go shopping with the bride for her gown, or they will even plan unique and creative bonding events such as a bridal party scavenger hunt before the wedding. Another memorable example was the planning and preparation of skits for the couple, performed at their wedding receptions. Even just basic and kind-hearted gestures like helping to assemble favors or helping the couple by running errands for them can make all the difference in a couple feeling supported and extra excited about tying the knot. When it comes to selecting your bridal party members, choose wisely; you'll thank me for it.Photo by Kai Photo

Happy planning!

Tips and Advice: prepare photos from your hair and make-up trial for your wedding

Hair and make-up trial or practice sessions with your hair and make-up artist prior to the wedding day help tremendously to solidify your bridal look. We recommend taking photos from the trial session and bringing them with you on the day of your wedding, to best jog your hair and make-up stylist's memory so that s/he can replicate the look, or can adjust the style as you wish by referencing the photos. Some hair and make-up artists will take and bring their own photos of you from the trial for your wedding, but if not, be prepared and take some on your own to best ensure the look you're most happy with on your wedding day.

Note how well Nica Jacinto of Flaunt replicated Shirley's hair and make-up style from the trial session style on the wedding day.

Photos by Kai Photo

Tips and Advice: devise a shot list

As the saying goes, "hindsight 20-20." In retrospect, many couples after their wedding wish their photographer and/or videographer had captured, say, more images of the guests, or a shot just with grandma, or some of the key moments and special touches planned for the day. Of course, nothing can replace those memories, but documenting them through film truly helps to relive those memories and to share them with others.

For those in the process of planning their wedding, we suggest creating a photo shot list, to include things that the photographer and videographer would not intuitively know to capture. For example, it would be unnecessary to include "bride and groom together" on the shot list because naturally, your photographer and videographer will know to shoot this, but the out of the ordinary requests are those that should definitely be included. Perhaps you would like a close-up of your grandmother's handkerchief that she has shared with you for your wedding, or it could be a photo sharing a toast with the groomsmen and the fathers prior to the ceremony. What touching images these would make!

To illustrate, here are some shot requests by other brides and grooms...

The bride and groom's "first sight" shot when they see each other for the first time on their wedding day, but the groom instead being more overwhelmed to see his "true love" (his car)

Photos by Kai Photo

A photo with the littlest and dearest member of the family - their dog

Photo by Kris Labang Photography

Photos at sunset

Photo by Kris Labang Photography

Photo of the bride and groom shooting themselves with their cell phones (to tie into their "When Apple Meets Droid" theme) after being pronounced "husband and wife"

Photo by Kai Photo

Note: an overly extensive shot list will mean that your photographer and videographer may end up spending more time checking things off the list than on capturing some great candids, so review your list with your wedding planner, photographer, and videographer to ensure that the list makes sense given the timing of the day.

Happy Planning!

Leis for Weddings

Now I know I've blogged about this topic before, but with destination weddings, many couples find the culture and usage of leis a bit foreign, so I thought I might help to shed light on the subject. Who should get a lei, and what type of lei is appropriate to give?

Let's start with the bridal party. For grooms, the most popular would be the maile lei, whose fragrant leaves look masculine and readily identifies a person of honor. It also does not stain clothing - a big plus on any occasion. Maile leis are typically reserved for "VIPs," so these would be appropriate for the groom, groomsmen, fathers, officiants, and even emcees, if this person is someone dear to you.

Kevin sports a maile with tuberose lei for his wedding earlier this year. Photo by Christie Pham Photography.

As for brides, one of my favorites is the rope pikake lei. The pikake, or jasmine blossom, resembles a dainty pearl and its sweet fragrance delicately scents its wearer. I recommend the rope over the multiple strands, as the individual flowers may separate on a strand, revealing the thread or floss holding the blooms together, whereas the rope style of lei retains its shape nicely, even after many hugs and a long day.

Nancy wore the beautiful and fragrant rope pikake lei for her reception and sunset photos on Waikiki Beach. Photo by Eclat Photography.

For moms and special female guests, something "fancier" and with a pretty scent usually serves well to acknowledge key people. Pikake leis, Micronesian ginger leis, double tuberose leis, and fancy orchid work nicely. (FYI - orchid leis generally do not have a fragrance.) For dads and special male guests, opt for leis without fragrance; some of the more popular varieties include kukui-mock orange and cigar leis.

Tiare's new mother-in-law and her mom wear beautiful Micronesian ginger leis for the wedding. Photo by Kai Photo.

As for out-of-town guests and even extended family members, a simple lei generally serves as a thoughtful gesture to recognize these people, without upstaging "VIPs" such as parents or bridal party members. Some suggestions include a single strand tuberose lei, single strand orchid lei, single strand lantern ilima lei, or single strand crown flower lei, to name a few. These typically cost less but still fulfill the objective of acknowledging these guests in a kind way. Choose flowers that match the colors of the wedding; the photos look even better when things are nicely coordinated.

Remember that the giving of leis is by no means a requirement, so do not feel obligated to give leis at your wedding, but if doing so, be sure to give them from the heart. Consult your floral designer, lei shop, or wedding planner for more ideas and tips on selecting leis for your wedding and enjoy the happy smiles of your guests when they get "lei'd in Hawaii!"

Featured Wedding #16: Tiare and Gary

Photos by Kai-Photo

They say love conquers all… but was it strong enough to bridge the differences between Gary, a die-hard Verizon Android fan, and Tiare, who can’t live without her Apple iPhone? Judging by their fun-filled wedding day at the Halekulani on July 10, 2011, our answer is a resounding yes!

This tech-savvy couple built the entire theme around their informal “rivalry.” First up were humorous shots of the ladies devouring fuzzy Droid dolls, and the groomsmen vigorously biting into green apples!

All was forgiven, however, during their romantic wedding day photo shoot on the Halekulani grounds…

or maybe not...

No matter their tech preference, no one could deny how lovely Tiare was in her form-fitting strapless gown. Crystal detailing on her neckline added subtle sparkle, while her cathedral-length veil was pure glamour. On her father's arm, she smiled all the way down the grassy aisle.

When it came time to exchange vows, the junior bridesmaid presented the couple with their phones on a silver platter so they could read the heartfelt sentiments they had stored.

Every detail of the décor was perfectly planned. Passion Roots created a lush bridal bouquet which included orchids and calla lilies in gorgeous shades of violet, while the bridesmaids’ cool green arrangements kept the look fresh.

Delicate mokara and dendrobrium orchids in impressive white box frames flanked the sand ceremony table and provided a backdrop for the vows.

The guests showed their approval as they entered the reception at the Halekulani Ballroom.

An artfully draped backdrop from REA Events, accented by delicate crystals and plum-colored mood lighting, set a stunning stage for the couple's first dance.

Dramatic, tall white trees placed on the center of the tables added dimension to the space. Strands of crystals adorned the outstretched branches and caught the candlelight. Purple satin linen made a regal statement, while the kiwi green napkins added a playful splash of color.

Extra touches enhanced the technology theme. The table numbers were displayed on Apples and Droids, and the seating assignments were printed to resemble an iPod screen. Copper wire, fashioned to look like a computer USB cord, wound through the centerpieces.

A violet-hued mokara orchid was placed at each setting, a thoughtful gesture that added a fresh spirit to the room and also welcomed guests to their seats.

After an acrobatic lion dance that got everyone’s heart pounding, guests dined on the delicious dinner buffet. For dessert, a custom-designed vegan cake appealed to the health-conscious bride.

The couple filled their program with entertainment. Trivia games kept the competitive spirit alive, Gary hammed it up as he wrapped Tiare’s garter around a Nerf football for the toss, and the hilarious Shoelywed Game had everyone laughing.

Throughout the evening, guests snapped away with their cell phone cameras and instantaneously uploaded their photos to the couple’s Facebook page, which was displayed on a large screen at the end of the Ballroom.

Not wishing to send their guests home empty-handed, Tiare and Gary provided each attendee with a vegan strawberry guava cupcake, topped with the rival OS logos.

After an evening of dancing and mingling, the bride happily embraced her new husband, sharing a sweet kiss during the last song. And most importantly, members of both the Android and Apple teams had agreed to a truce… or at least temporarily.

Congratulations, Tiare and Gary!

Providing Your Guests with a Unique Experience for Your Destination Wedding in Hawaii

Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach

Photo by Dave Miyamoto & Company Photography

Whenever catching up with friends, the topic of conversation at some point, always turns to weddings, as everyone knows how much my career as a wedding planner is so much a part of my life and passion. Yesterday's lunch with an old friend was no different. He shared with me his experience attending a destination wedding in Cancun, Mexico, and how he wished the whole affair had involved more "culture," especially since the location, which he had never visited before, promised something unique and out-of-the-ordinary.

That conversation inspired today's blog topic; providing your guests with a uniquely "Hawaiian" experience for your destination wedding here.

A Hawaiian Kahu or Officiant During a Ceremony, Bearing Lei for Family Members of the Couple

Photo by Dave Miyamoto & Company Photography

What is it that makes Hawaii different from any other destination in the world? On a cultural level, it is the hula; the Hawaiian language found in song (although seldom spoken today); musical styling from the ukulele and slack key guitar; surfing (which originated here); Hawaiian prints in fabric and quilt patterns; the Hawaiian and local cuisine; the tradition of giving lei to love ones, the historic landmarks worth visiting; and of course, the aloha spirit and overall cheery disposition that most folks have around here. All of this and more can be incorporated into the wedding itself as well as into activities with guests both prior to and following the wedding.

Seared Blackend Ahi (yellow fin tuna) with Wasabi Aioli, Soy Sake Glaze, and Micro-Greens Served as the Appetizer Course at our August 9, 2010 Wedding Reception at the Beach House Restaurant
Photo by Dave Miyamoto & Company Photography

For our destination wedding couples, we have helped to arrange everything from private surfing lessons; rehearsal dinners at off-the-beaten-path eateries featuring an array of local dishes; private, guided site-seeing tours in trolleys for the visiting guests (sometimes, in multiple languages); private hula lessons for the bride to perform for her groom during the reception; a build-your-own-cocktail station with hollowed-out pineapple cups and an assortment of fresh island juices; custom designed and tailored aloha print attire for the bridal party; parties for the friends in a private karaoke room; and so much more. The possibilities are endless when it comes to treating your guests to a one-of-a-kind destination wedding experience in Hawaii. I encourage you to get creative when planning your wedding here; I assure you, your guests will thank you for it!

Custom Tailored Aloha Print Attire for Guests

Photo by Dave Miyamoto & Company Photography


Catholic Priest Wearing a Fragrant Maile Lei. (A thoughtful and appreciated gesture in Hawaii is to present a lei to the wedding officiant; a tradition which your guests might find very special.)
Photo by Chrissy Lambert

Bride by Stained Glass Window. (Note the pineapple in the bottom corner of the stained glass. The stained glass murals at Our Lady of Peace, known as the oldest Catholic cathedral in continuous use in the United States, depict the development of Catholicism in Hawaii.)
Photo by Chrissy Lambert

Painted Hibiscus Mural Serves as an Original "Vintage Hawaii" Backdrop. Location: Island of Molokai
Photo by Kai Photo