Meet Ashley, one of my most lovable friends. We were both in Oahu for work and spent a few extra days there for some R & R. It was great to share a lazy Saturday morning with her, and I couldn’t resist getting some photos. Thank you, Ashley, for being a great model, being so spontaneous and letting me take some pics of you in your PJs.

For the ceremony, the two had the good fortune of having Black Sand Beach at Waianapanapa State Park all to themselves. It misted for just a moment during the ceremony, which is said to be a Hawaiian blessing. Amber had envisioned having a picnic for just the two of them after the ceremony, so that they could relax and take in the excitement of being married. She hand-painted the mugs that say ‘Just Married’ and the two of them enjoyed a refreshing beverage and snacks in a nook right by the beach. Mike even had a special song he played for Amber on the ukelele.

After the picnic, we hiked up to a cross that is situated at the top of a mountain overlooking the town of Hana. The view of the town, the pastures and the ocean were incredible.

Congratulations to Amber and Mike! I hope you move back to the islands someday soon.

Wedding Coordinator: Alana Ross of Hana Wedding Co.
Officiant: Anthony Angelini
Florals:Hala Tropical Flowers
Musician: CJ Helekai

Thank you to Jes for assisting me on this wedding.

We spent two hours at different spots on Maui to get a variety of photos. One of the first questions I asked them was: “Do you climb trees?” Phi-Van: “Um, no but I will.” I knew right then what a blast we were going to have. We visited the world’s largest banyan tree in Lahaina, the Maui Sugar Train, an abandoned warehouse, a sandy beach and we were lucky enough to have a full rainbow appear during our shoot.

Here are a few of my favorites!
Makeup: Cindy Walker

Wedding Coordinator: White Orchid Weddings
Hair: Dan Sanchez
Make-up Artist: Jessica Waite
Florals: Bella Blooms
Ceremony: The Makena Beach and Golf Resort
Officiant: Pastor Vance Rosete
Ukelele Musician: Ernest Pua’a

There are very few times when photographers really blow me away with not only their lighting and compositional skills but also their originality and creativity. Jake Garn and Ryan Muirhead are prime examples of this. SLUG Magazine says Jake Garn “combines elements of high fashion and the avant-garde to create beautiful, whimsical images that are instantly identifiable.” Ryan Muirhead has experience shooting commercial work for the TV shows Bones and High School Musical as well an upcoming major motion picture. And they are bringing it to Maui: Two full days of lighting, shooting and discussing ways to elevate your work to the next level. They’re even flying a talented styling team over from the mainland just for this workshop.

They’re offering a discount if you reserve your spot before February 14th. If you want to see more, check out their cool promo video HERE.

There is something uplifting about a gorgeous girl who loves to splash in the ocean while rockin’ her designer dress! This girl is my inspiration for the weekend!

Thank you to everyone who participated–we filled up both of the big booths, and a big mahalo to SmugMug for the scrumptious pizza!

We started in Loring Park and then walked over the bridge to the Walker Art Center. Here are just a few of my favorites…