Question 1

How far in advance should we start planning our Maui wedding?

Accepted Answer

We recommend starting 12 to 18 months out, especially for peak season (June through September) or popular venues like Haiku Mill or Wailea Resort. Elopements and smaller ceremonies can come together in 4 to 6 months. We have also pulled off weddings in as little as 8 weeks, so reach out and we will let you know what is possible for your timeline.

Question 2

Can you help us plan our wedding from the mainland?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most of our couples plan the whole thing remotely. We do all consultations over video calls, share venue tours through professional walkthroughs, and use a shared planning portal where you can review vendor proposals, approve designs, and track your timeline. Many of our couples do not visit Maui until a few days before the wedding, and everything is ready when they arrive.

Question 3

Do we need to do a site visit before booking a venue?

Accepted Answer

A site visit is nice if your schedule allows, but not required. We have detailed photo galleries, drone footage, and virtual walkthrough tours for every venue we recommend. Our planners know each property well and can walk you through the pros, cons, and logistics based on your guest count, style, and budget. Many of our best weddings were planned entirely sight-unseen until the couple arrived on the island.

Question 4

What is included when we book a full wedding planning package?

Accepted Answer

The full planning package covers concept design, venue sourcing, and day-of execution. That means unlimited planner consultations, vendor sourcing and contract negotiation, custom design and decor planning, timeline creation, guest travel coordination, rehearsal management, and full on-site direction on your wedding day. You tell us your vision, we handle the logistics.

Question 5

How do our guests get to Maui, and where should they stay?

Accepted Answer

Maui is served by Kahului Airport (OGG), with direct flights from most major West Coast cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, and Portland, as well as connecting flights from everywhere else in the US. Alaska Airlines also offers direct seasonal flights from Anchorage (see our Alaska destination wedding page for specifics on that route). We provide a curated list of recommended hotels and vacation rentals near your venue, negotiate group room rates when possible, and can set up a guest travel page with all the information your attendees need, from flight tips to packing lists to island activity suggestions.

Question 6

Do guests need a rental car on Maui?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your venue location and how much exploring your guests want to do. For weddings at South Maui resorts like Wailea, many guests can get by with hotel shuttles and ride-shares. For venues in more remote areas like Haiku or Olowalu, a rental car is recommended. We always include transportation logistics in our guest information materials and can arrange shuttle services between hotels and your venue for the wedding day itself.

Question 7

Can you coordinate a multi-day wedding weekend itinerary?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and we love doing it. Many of our couples plan a full weekend that includes a welcome dinner or luau the night before, the ceremony and reception on the main day, and a farewell brunch the morning after. We can also arrange group activities like snorkeling tours, sunset sailing excursions, or guided hikes for guests who arrive early or stay late. Our Grand Aloha package includes multi-day event coordination as a standard feature.

Question 8

What is the average cost of a Maui destination wedding?

Accepted Answer

Maui wedding costs vary depending on guest count, venue, and customization level. Our Sunset Package for intimate beach ceremonies (under 10 guests) is a flat $2,500 for coordination. Our Classic Package (15% of budget) handles a single event, while the Deluxe Package (17.5%, minimum $15K budget) covers ceremony and reception. The Ultimate Package (20%, minimum $25K budget) is a full weekend experience. Total wedding costs typically range from $5,000 for elopements to $100,000+ for luxury celebrations. We begin with a complimentary consultation to understand your vision and budget.

Question 9

Is a deposit required to book, and what is your payment schedule?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a 50% down payment is required to reserve your dates and secure vendors. The remaining balance is structured per your contract terms. Before any commitment, we start with a free consultation to understand your vision, followed by a $250 Proposal & Planning Consultation where we present a tailored plan. Only then do we move to a custom budget and formal agreement. A detailed payment schedule is outlined in your contract.

Question 10

Are vendor costs included in your package prices, or are they separate?

Accepted Answer

Our package prices include the planning and coordination services described, as well as the specific vendor services listed (such as photography, florals, and officiant). Catering, bar service, entertainment upgrades, and additional décor rentals are typically quoted separately based on your guest count and preferences. We always provide a comprehensive estimate that accounts for all anticipated costs so there are no surprises.

Question 11

What are the legal requirements for getting married in Hawaii?

Accepted Answer

Hawaii keeps it simple. No residency requirement, no waiting period. You can get your marriage license and get married on the same day. Both partners need to be at least 18 with valid government-issued photo ID (passport or driver's license). The license is $60, payable by credit card, and valid for 30 days. No blood tests required.

Question 12

How do we obtain a Hawaii marriage license?

Accepted Answer

The process is straightforward. First, both partners complete an online application through the Hawaii Department of Health eMarriage system. Then, you attend a brief in-person appointment with a licensed marriage license agent on Maui to verify your identification and sign the documents. We coordinate this appointment for you and can arrange for an agent to meet you at your hotel or even at the ceremony venue for maximum convenience. The license is issued immediately at the appointment.

Question 13

Is a wedding performed on Maui legally recognized in our home state?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A marriage legally performed in the State of Hawaii is recognized in all 50 US states and internationally. After your ceremony, your officiant files the signed marriage license with the Hawaii Department of Health, and you will receive your official marriage certificate by mail within a few weeks. We provide guidance on the name-change process and any additional documentation you may need.

Question 14

What is the best time of year to get married on Maui?

Accepted Answer

Maui has warm weather year-round, so any season works for a wedding. The most popular months are April through June and September through November: warm temperatures (75-85 degrees), low rainfall, and fewer crowds. Summer (June through August) is peak tourist season with the highest prices. Winter (December through March) brings slightly more rain and whale watching season, but also the holiday rush. There is no bad time to get married here.

Question 15

What happens if it rains on our wedding day?

Accepted Answer

Rain on Maui is usually brief, localized, and often followed by a rainbow. We always have a weather backup plan for every outdoor ceremony: a covered location at your venue, a tent on standby, or a nearby indoor space we can pivot to. In Hawaiian culture, rain on your wedding day is actually considered a blessing. Some of our best photos have come during or just after a passing shower.

Question 16

Does the side of the island matter for weather on our wedding day?

Accepted Answer

Yes, significantly. Maui has distinct microclimates depending on location. The south and west sides of the island (Wailea, Kihei, Lahaina, Kapalua) are considerably drier and sunnier than the north and east sides (Haiku, Paia, Hana). If having guaranteed sunshine is a top priority, a South or West Maui venue is your safest bet. If you love lush, tropical greenery and don't mind the possibility of a brief shower, North Shore venues like Haiku Mill offer incredible atmosphere. We factor weather patterns into every venue recommendation.

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