It was the halfway point. Maui, that is. Guests from, literally, all parts of the world arrived ready to witness one incredible union in paradise. Kristine, originally from New York, had moved to Tokyo where she met and fell in love with Hisashi… and so their story begins.

After meeting both families, laughing and crying together (even with a language barrier) it was easy to see why Kristine and Hisashi are so special. A traditional luau kicked off the three-day celebration, leading into a perfect day at Olowalu Plantation House, and ending with a wet day-after shoot.

The ocean breeze brushed through the curtains in the plantation room Kristine was readying herself in, and she spritzed her new bottle of Chanel. It was what she wore when the two began dating, and it was one of Hisashi’s favorite scents. Her mom latched the back of her gown, and they giggled over the load of dresses she had shipped to Tokyo, and tried on over Skype. She was calm, witty, and ready to see Hisashi all dressed up… hoping he’d remembered to bring everything on the list she left for him in the morning. She was merely practicing her wife skills; writing lists, and brushing it off when he forgets.

In another room, Marcus helped Hisashi place his custom collar stays, and recalls watching one of the happiest people he’s ever seen get dressed. I guess when Hisashi proposed to Kristine and she said yes, HE was the first to cry! But it makes sense, because that’s Hisashi – A warm, loving, deep-down in your soul committed man whose laugh can turn the worst of days into the best. His heart is so full of love and admiration for Kristine and the friends and family who surround him. Together, they are beautiful. And the thoughtfulness and attention to detail for their guests was spot on.

Kristine + Hisashi :: You are who and what we want to be around, all the time. Marcus and I could not be more thankful for experiencing your wedding and Hawaii through you. We had such an amazing time getting to know you both, and feeling your love. Oceans and languages apart, you two will always be in our hearts. Kris – if nothing else, I have THEE funniest emails to look back on. I love when you write me.

Beauuuutiful!!

Gah!! He’s always laughing and we LOVE it!!!

We were thrilled Kristine and Hisashi opted for a First Look and saw one another before the ceremony. IT. WAS. UNREAL!! Hisashi was so blown away by Kristine, and this was the first time Marcus and I BOTH cried during a first look! Beautiful.

The two were tucked away while guests arrived for the ceremony.

The stunning flowers were done by Bella Bloom. What a perfect fit!

It was so nice to see Hawaiian traditions incorporated.

Seriously? This backdrop?

I can’t say enough wonderful things about Jane and Lena from Belle Destination Weddings. They executed such a wonderful experience for everyone, and I’m SO excited they’ve branched into San Diego!

There were SO many meaningful and thought out details of the day. Here are just a few. How awesome is the ribbon table runner?!

The food by Aloha Events and drinks by Garnish Events were divine!

The cake toppers are modern interpretations of the couples’ Japanese zodiac years, and were made by an artist in Gunma, which is near Hisashi’s hometown.

There were about 30 guests, which we loooove! Marcus and I specialize in smaller, intimate weddings because that’s really where our heart is. It was so wonderful to connect with each and every person that attended! They were all WONDERFUL!!

Stay tuned for Kristine and Hisashi’s DAY-AFTER session!

Wedding Coordinators :: Belle Destination Weddings
Venue :: Olowalu Plantation House
Gown and Shoes :: J.Crew
Invitations :: Bella Figura
Calligraphy :: Kelle
Flowers :: Bella Bloom
Catering :: Aloha Events
Bar Service :: Garnish Events