Guys! 2020 was the craziest year EVER! A true rollercoaster ride of emotions, from thinking we would never photograph another wedding again, to just enjoying the time off with our kids, and of course the fear over Covid, and the economy of our little Island we call home. We are hoping we can help couples who cant wait to celebrate their love with our Ultimate Guide to Eloping on Maui!
Our last event before the lockdowns was on March 9, 2020. The day after we flew to Whistler, Canada for a snowboarding trip that was cut short due to the Mountain closing early. We flew home, stocked up on supplies and locked down like the rest of the world. Nearly all of our weddings for the rest of the year cancelled or postponed…. except one.
Kelly & Dustin
Kelly and Dustin get the award for Bravest bride and groom of 2020. They held on strong, stayed faithful and stoic, fought off the feelings of fear and stuck with their originally scheduled wedding on 10.20.2020. Hawaii State Governor Ige announced Hawaii would re-open for tourism on 10.15.20.
Tips for Eloping on Maui in 2020
Kelly and Dustin kept it very intimate with only and handful of their closest family members and friends. Their total guest count was under 20 people including bride & groom. Because they didn’t break the bank feeding and entertaining 100+ guests, they had a nice budget for plenty of photography time, and beautiful decor and flowers by the very best Mandy Grace Designs.
Rather than having a catered dinner at the Venue, Kelly and Dustin opted for some light appetizers and champagne at the wedding, and dinner at one of Maui’s finest and most popular restaurants, Merrimans Kapalua.
Eloping on Maui is not all that different than it was before, but If your planning on an intimate celebration on Maui in the near future, there are a few things to keep in mind.
1. You and all your guests must present a valid negative covid test taken within 72 hours to avoid the mandatory 10 day quarantine.
2. We would suggest keeping your guest count under 10, so your not breaking any gathering mandates.
3. Reserve a private venue if you can. That way you’re on private property and however you decide to celebrate will be your choice.
4. Reserve plenty of time for photos/video. Since not many family members and friends will be there to witness you exchange vows, its important to get a good collection of photos and vide that tell the story for your loved ones back home.
5. Consider a live web streamed ceremony so family members back home can participate in the ceremony. Stephen Boeker of Live Maui Webcasts is very experienced and has streamed many couples weddings for loved ones who couldn’t make it to the Islands.
We are so excited that Maui is open for tourism again, and we hope to see you on the Island soon!
XOXO D&S
As always, a huge mahalo to all the wonderful wedding vendors who helped make this Maui Elopement so special!
Maui Elopement Planner :: Kelly Miller of A Perfect Paradise Wedding
Floral Design :: Mandy Grace Designs
Musician :: Marin Tevaga
Elopement Photographer :: Dmitri of Dmitri & Sandra Photography
