Vendor Highlight: Eugene Kam Photography

I thought it might be helpful to start introducing Hawaii's vendors to readers, and giving them a bit of my "insider insight," as many of you may be in need of their services. For my first feature, I've selected one of the veterans in the wedding industry, Eugene Kam Photography.

Eugene is one of the photographers who have successfully transitioned from the film to digital age of photography, and because of this, he brings with him a solid foundation in technique. What I admire most about Eugene's work, is his ability to capture couples at their best, through direction and an understanding of how to minimize physical traits that couples may find less flattering (such as significant height differences, "fluffy" areas) while accentuating their best features.

He also offers couples a full range of products, including albums, thank you cards, and now, he even sends couples a mini, lightweight, paperback album with photos from their wedding. Special touches like this, and his calendar Valentine's card with the wedding date marked with a heart, make his truly a complete and comprehensive service.

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!

Wedding Planning Tip: Selecting the Right Vendors for Your Wedding

Photo by Kris Labang

With so many qualified, talented, and reputable vendors available, many brides and grooms find themselves overwhelmed, not knowing which hair and make-up artist, photographer, cake maker, floral designer, etc. best suits them. As seasoned wedding planners, we tailor our vendor recommendations to each of our clients' unique set of needs, thereby streamlining the process for them. Here are some tips regarding vendor selection that I shared with brides and grooms who attended this last Wednesday's workshop held by The Wedding Cafe, to help them better understand vendor selection:

Things to consider:

• Budget - calculate how much you would ideally like to spend on each vendor type.
• Style - learn about the different vendors' styles, and assess whether their style matches your own for your wedding.
• Priorities - determine as a couple what your priorities are, as these are the areas where you may want to splurge, and cut back on those areas that fall lower on the priority list.

Suggested Process:

• Narrow down list of possible vendors.
• Schedule appointments to meet or speak with vendors under consideration.
• Meet with your prospective vendors and ask lots of questions to gain a clear understanding of what they provide. (Remember, vendors and venues may or may not be holding your date while you weigh your choices, so make decisions in a timely manner to ensure the greatest likelihood of booking your first choice in vendor.)
• Book the vendors that make the most sense for your wedding.
  

Launch of the Hawaii Blog for The Knot

Aloha! I am excited to be blogging for The Knot, and I look forward to sharing some insights into all the spectacular things we have to offer here in Hawaii for weddings. The amazing talent of our vendors; the temperate climate; the unique melding of so many cultures; and above all, the wonderful brides, grooms, and people in the wedding community continue to inspire me and remind me time and again of why I consider myself fortunate to be planning weddings.

Stay tuned for some updates on the latest and greatest with Hawaii weddings! In the meantime, here's a photo shot by Absolutely Loved of my dear friends, whose June 20, 2009 wedding we helped to plan. Congratulations Cindy and Duff!

~ Mona