With this cold weather we're having here in NorCal, it happens all the time (people go through these island fever withdrawals). After
someone's been on a week vacation, and having to switch back to reality mode,
I've seen such updates on Facebook and Instagram. You can't see me, but
I'm raising my hand because I'm guilty of feeling that way everytime I
return from Hawai'i. Especially having grown up on the islands, reminiscing with
high school friends, bbq'ing with family, engulfing the bright, tropical
sun, I always feel a part of my heart is left behind.
And I'm sure this couple knows exactly what I'm talking about. Desma Peralta and Michael Lam got married at Turtle Bay Resort on the
North Shore of Oahu on September 29, 2012.
Not only is Turtle Bay one of my stomping grounds throughout my teen years, but the sweet aroma of fresh leis, the calmness
of the ocean breeze, with Hawaiian slack key guitar music making you
wanna sway, just speaks to me in such a way that brings comfort and
makes me smile that Kool-Aid grin.
When Des & Mike got engaged a year prior from their wedding
date during a trip to Yosemite, and said they had plans to marry in
Hawai'i, we were super thrilled. I got even more excited when Mike said
"Turtle Bay Resort". Nuff said.
Immediately, the husby (Jay) & I gave a big nod and said "We're going!" And then to have Des ask for assistance throughout her wedding planning, I couldn't have been more happy to accept. Her vision entailed of a rustic, outdoorsey theme that shadowed the elegance of her dress.
When Des initially started to brainstorm their wedding theme, she
wanted to use a chalkboard effect for guest escort cards, and doilies to
match her graceful mantilla veil.
The doilies were clipped to a chicken
wired wooden frame, displaying where their guests were seated.
She also
included small wooden hearts for her guests to write their well wishes
on. With a lot of DIY projects, we both had searched online and I gave
her a couple websites to order from.
From there, she was all hands-on
and pretty much did a lot of the work herself, with the help of her
entourage. It's fun to see a bride's vision take it's course throughout
the wedding planning, and take flight from the moment they feel
comfortable with what they have in place.
From our suite, we can see Ku'ulima Point, where the white tent,
round tables, chiavari chairs, and linens were being set up.
As an added centerpiece, Des' had the lace-boardered chalkboard stand against a jar, noting their favorite (food) places on the island. The writing replicated exactly how you would see the sign for that specific place. A very cool touch!
Next to the tent, is the
glass-walled chapel Pavilion that opens up with a breathtaking view of
the ocean.
Nothing screams more beauty than a glass chapel on beautiful grounds, surrounded by the sounds of crashing waves.
Thankfully, I had the help of my lovely sister-in-law to assist with
the layout of the guest tables and sign-in area, it was already looking
like a beautiful day, just awaiting to unfold in all it's glory.
With the bright sun above us at a little after 3 pm, Desma had her
stylish pink bow-tie wearing 9 year old son, Jeremiah, walk her down the aisle to one of
her favorite slow songs, "So In Love", by UNV. A gorgeous mantilla
veil drapped over her shoulders, as they walked toward their guests to
meet Mike, smiling from ear to ear.
To join the families together, they
proceeded with a sand ceremony, combining their colors of pink, light
green, and tan, which was then displayed at their welcome sign-in table.
Just like any typical Hawaiian day, it wasn't a surprise to me that
a little island rain passed through right when the entourage were being
introduced during the start of the reception. And as usual at the
perfect time, it stopped when Mr. & Mrs. Michael Lam stepped out to
greet their guests right into their first dance.
The night continued with some delicious local-style buffet,
heart-felt speeches, orders of Jameson liquor, a view of a spectacular
sunset, and family and friends enjoying their Hawaiian evening. It
wasn't complete without dancing underneath the stars and guests in pure
vacay mode.
When I asked the bride recently as to what her most memorable
moment was on her wedding day, she actually answered with 2 special
moments:
1. Walking down the aisle with my Jeremiah, looking down the aisle at Mike, and being so surprised to see tears in his eyes! Almost lost my composure =*)
2. Taking into consideration the advice past brides gave me... Take a moment to soak it all in and enjoy it. When we finally had a chance to sit during dinner, we had a chance to look up and see each and everyone present. We realized how blessed we were to have them all share this important moment with us.
The 2nd answer is something I always remind our couples...to take
that step back during the reception and get a glimpse of the people who
are there celebrating with you..."soak it all in" are my words exactly!
:)
Then when I asked what advice she can give future bride and grooms, she said...
Start early! Then in moderation. That way you don't end up rushing or stressed. As the day gets closer, all you'll have to worry about is "picking up the pieces"
We just want to say "Mahalo" to Mike & Des, for having C&C
Engagements be a part of their wedding. Who knew we'd branch out over
the 2300+ miles of Pacific water to orchestrate a wedding. Lucky us. :)
Aloha~
C&C had the privilege of working with such talented vendors. With that said, we you thank and wish you all the best...
VENDORS
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Turtle Bay Resort
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Mikilani Ikalani
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DJ Tone
Emcee
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Anthony Welden
Des’ cousin Daryl
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FlowerGirls
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Michelle Maeda
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JMJ Rental (Dancefloor, tent)
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Mark Repollo
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Kai Photo
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Grace Kwock
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Image Creations
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Annie Goo
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Faith & Beauty
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Gemina Chong
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Officiant
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Cynthia Smooth
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I would also Highly recommend KPix Photography for any Hawaii Wedding! It's anything but your average Hawaii wedding photographer. Each wedding is treated with care and creativity not found with other Hawaii photography studios. Your wedding day is carefully crafted to offer one of a kind unique photography in the Oahu area. Offering wedding coverage in Oahu, Maui, Kauai and destinations worldwide.Creative. Candid. Fun. These are the words typically used to describe this Oahu wedding photographer. With clients based all over the world.
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