
Everything you'll Need to Know to
Get Married in Hawaii.
Legalities
The sunny state of Hawaii truly is a romantic oasis and the perfect location for a bride and groom to begin their forever love story. With stunning ocean shorelines and captivating mountain landscapes Hawaii has much to offer. Whether you're a visitor or local to the islands, we’re here to make your special day in paradise unforgettable!
Permits
The D.L.N.R. (Department of Land & Natural Resources) requires beach use permits for all weddings performed on Hawaiian beaches. All such permits must be applied for and obtained for a specific date and time, and the event must not exceed 2 hours per permit. Only a Wedding Officiant licensed in the State of Hawaii is able to apply. The State also requires adequate insurance coverage of all vendors.
Don't worry we've got you covered! Oahu Island Weddings (your Wedding Officiant representative) will handle applying for and obtaining the permit on behalf of your group and providing proper insurance coverage for your Wedding Day.

FOUR
EASY
Steps
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Can we customize our wedding (or vow renewal)?Absolutely! Your wedding should be as unique as your love story. Every element can be carefully selected to reflect your style and preferences. Add special touches with hair & makeup, extra floral pieces, a Hawaiian musician, or aerial drone footage personally chosen to make your day even more magical. Customize easily through your Personal Online Wedding Planner.
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***What’s included in each package?What specific services, such as photography, music, or hair and makeup, are included in each package?
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***What specific services, such as photography, music, or hair and makeup, are included in each package?Is the photography or event coordination limited to a certain number of hours, or can we extend it?
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***How many people can be accommodated in each package?Does the package include a set number of guests, or is it scalable for larger groups?
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***Is there a price difference for weekend vs. weekday weddings?Do the costs vary depending on the day of the week, or is the price consistent across all dates?
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Why choose Oahu over the other islands?Oahu stands out from other Hawaiian islands with its perfect blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. Unlike other islands, Oahu offers a mix of stunning beaches, lush mountains, and vibrant city life, giving you the best of both worlds. You can have a serene, intimate ceremony on a quiet beach, then easily head to a world-class restaurant or luxury resort for a reception. The island is home to the vibrant city of Honolulu, where you’ll find diverse dining, shopping, and entertainment options, ensuring your guests have plenty to enjoy. With daily flights, accessible transport, and a wide array of venues and activities, Oahu provides a unique destination with unmatched convenience, beauty, and excitement for your special day.
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What is the best beach location you recommend?With over one hundred and twelve miles of beautiful beaches on the island, choosing the perfect one for your wedding can be tricky! Some beaches are sacred, difficult to access, or restricted for commercial use, while others may require a hike—definitely not ideal in a wedding dress or heels! We’ve carefully selected the best locations based on your wedding size, the season, weather, and permits, ensuring you have a stunning and accessible spot for your special day. We’re here to help you find the perfect spot for your dream day!
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Do you offer other venues than the beach?Yes we have many options available. Beach weddings are the most affordable option with just a Beach Use Permit starting at $75 (depending on your group size). For private venues like hotels, homes, or waterfalls, there are site fees that range from $500 to $5000 or more. Oahu offers a variety of stunning wedding venues, from tropical gardens (with or without a gazebo) to waterfall weddings, horseback, small airplanes, or even a riverboat wedding. You can also enhance your celebration with Hawaiian musicians or a Hula dancer, making your Oahu wedding as fancy or laid-back as you dream!
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What happens if the location is unavailable on our wedding day?No worries! If your chosen location is unavailable on your wedding day, we’ll seamlessly transition to a beautiful alternative. With our local expertise and insider access to Oahu’s stunning beaches, we always have a backup plan to ensure your day is nothing short of magical. You can relax knowing we’ve got it all covered!
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Can we visit the location before booking?(TEST) Absolutely! We’d love for you to visit the location before booking. If you’re on the island, we can set up a time to meet and show you around. And if you’re planning from afar, no problem—we’re happy to provide photos, videos, or even a virtual tour to help you feel confident in your choice. We're here to make sure you find the perfect spot for your special day!
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Is there a limit to the number of guests at the location?(TEST) Yes, our beach wedding locations can accommodate up to 30 guests comfortably. This ensures an intimate and beautiful setting while keeping within local guidelines. If you have specific questions about your guest list or need help tailoring your plans, just let us know—we’re here to help!
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Is parking available at the location for guests?(TEST) Yes, most of our beach wedding locations offer parking options for guests. We’re happy to provide detailed information about parking availability, including nearby lots and tips for a smooth arrival. If needed, we can also assist with transportation arrangements to ensure everyone gets to your celebration with ease!
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How far is each location from Waikiki?(TEST) Our locations are all within a short drive from Waikiki, typically ranging from 10 to 30 minutes depending on the specific spot. We’ll provide you with all the details to help you plan travel smoothly, and we’re happy to assist with transportation options for you and your guests to ensure everything goes seamlessly!
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Are flowers, hair, makeup, and musicians part of the package?(TEST) No, flowers, hair, makeup, and musicians are separate from the main package. However, we offer completely customizable options to fit your budget and vision. Whether you want a simple bouquet or a full beauty and music experience, we’re here to create a personalized package that works perfectly for you!
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Can I choose my flowers and colors for a personalized touch?(TEST) Absolutely! You can choose your flowers and colors to make your wedding day truly personal. We’ll work with you to select the perfect arrangements that match your vision, ensuring every detail reflects your unique style and personality.
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Why are flowers so important for our wedding?Yes they are totally worth it for your irreplaceable photos on your wedding day! Flowers add vibrant color to your wedding photos, making them even more memorable. A bouquet creates a beautiful backdrop for ring shots, while the Haku (head lei) helps with the bride's hair and adds color. The Maile lei on the groom enhances his look, and orchids in the bride's hair complete the ensemble. Flowers may add to the cost, but they bring out the beauty and joy of the moment in your photos.
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When will we get our flowers?If you've ordered a bridal bouquet or other florals from us, we'll bring your beautiful blooms straight to the beach, ensuring they’re as fresh as possible for your ceremony and photo session! If you’d prefer, we can also have your flowers delivered right to your hotel room for just a small $35 fee.
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What do we do with our hair?With the tropical Trade Winds, it's likely your hair might not stay in place during your beach wedding! But don’t worry, bride and groom—there are plenty of ways to keep your hair looking great despite the breeze. Brides can opt for a Haku Lei, pin their hair back, or have a professional stylist help with the perfect look. Floral hairpieces, like orchids, are also a great way to keep hair in place while adding beauty. For grooms, a little hairspray or a well-placed hair tie can help keep things tidy. Adding flowers to your hair, like a bridal bouquet, Haku lei, or leis, will not only control the wind but also brighten your photos and enhance your overall look!
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How long do hair and makeup services take, and when should we start?(TEST) Hair and makeup services typically take about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the style and number of people being done. We recommend starting about 3 to 4 hours before your ceremony to allow plenty of time for everyone to be ready and enjoy a relaxed, stress-free morning. If you have a specific timeline in mind, let us know, and we’ll help coordinate everything to ensure the perfect timing!
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What music will the musician play?Our talented Hawaiian musicians will fill your ceremony with beautiful Hawaiian love songs and wrap things up with the traditional Hawaiian Wedding song, creating the perfect atmosphere. If you have a special song in mind that we need to learn, we can certainly accommodate that for a small additional fee. For a more classical touch, we also offer cellists and violinists to make your day even more magical.
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Do you offer special transportation options like limos or shuttles?(TEST) Yes, we offer a variety of transportation options to make sure you and your guests travel in style and comfort. From elegant limousines to spacious shuttles, we can customize your transportation to fit your needs. Whether it's just for the bride and groom or for your entire party, we’ll coordinate the perfect vehicles to ensure everyone arrives on time and relaxed. Just let us know your preferences, and we’ll take care of the details!
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Can we request specific moments to be captured?(TEST) Absolutely! We encourage you to share any specific moments you'd like captured. Whether it’s a special glance, a family tradition, or a particular detail, we’ll work with you to make sure those meaningful moments are beautifully preserved. Our photographers are experienced in capturing everything you envision, so feel free to let us know what’s most important to you!
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***Do you offer additional coverage for getting ready and reception photos and videos?Absolutely! We offer customizable packages to include extra coverage for those special getting-ready moments and reception celebrations. Whether you’d like a photographer, videographer, or both, we can tailor the coverage to fit your vision. We’ll provide you with the available options and transparent pricing, ensuring you capture every beautiful memory from start to finish.
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How long does it take to get our photos/video?Wedding Photos Your beautiful wedding photos are usually ready in 7-10 business days—we can’t wait to share them with you! If you’d like them a little sooner, we offer RUSH processing: get your photos in 5 days for $250 or 3 days for $350. Our talented photographers use top-of-the-line Nikon FX cameras to capture every moment, delivering stunning high-resolution .jpg images perfect for enlargements. Your photos will be available for digital download, with the option of a USB stick for an extra special touch. Wedding Video Your web stream will be ready within 24 hours, and your fully edited wedding video will be delivered in about 8-10 weeks. You’ll get an email as soon as your stream is online and ready for viewing. If you need your full video sooner, we offer RUSH processing for a 14-day turnaround at just $299. Need it even faster? Just let us know!
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***Are enhancements like color correction, retouching, or special effects included in your standard package, or are they available as add-ons?Our standard package includes professional editing, such as color correction, light retouching, and enhancements to ensure your photos and videos look their best. For those looking to elevate their experience, we also offer a deluxe edit option. This upgrade provides advanced retouching, special effects, and a more polished, artistic touch to create truly stunning visuals. We’d be delighted to discuss which option aligns best with your vision!
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How do we receive our photos/video?(test) You’ll receive your photos and video through a secure online gallery, where you can easily view, download, and share them with family and friends. We’ll also provide high-resolution files, and for videos, a digital download link or DVD, depending on your preference. Our turnaround time is quick, so you can relive your special day without any wait!
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Will we receive both digital and printed photos?(TEST) Your photos will primarily be provided digitally through an online gallery, where you can easily view, download, and share them. However, if you’d like printed photos, you can absolutely request them, and we’ll be happy to arrange custom prints for you. Just let us know what you'd like, and we’ll take care of the details!
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Step 1 - Apply OnlineYou can complete this up to 1 year before your wedding! It’s a quick and easy digital process for just $65. Don’t forget to note your Authorization Code/Locator ID—and you’re all set!
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Step 2 - Schedule AppointmentNext, book your appointment with a Licensed Agent 30 days before your wedding! Schedule online, by phone (808-586-4544), or email (doh.marriage@doh.hawaii.gov). One step closer to "I do!"
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Step 3 - Meet Licensed AgentAlmost time to say “I do!” Both of you must attend your appointment, where the Licensed Agent will check your application, verify photo IDs, and issue your Marriage License. From there, the countdown is on! It’s valid for 30 days anywhere in Hawaii, so get ready for the most magical moment of your lives!
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Step 4 - Rings, License, and 'I Do's'Just bring your rings and Marriage License, and we’ll handle the rest! Our amazing team—Minister, Musician, Photographer, and Videographer—will be ready to welcome you for an unforgettable wedding experience. Your gorgeous flowers and perfect music will be set, and your ceremony will last 15-20 minutes, with your full celebration running 1-2 hours, depending on your package. Once you’re officially married, you can print a temporary Marriage Certificate online, and your final Marriage Certificate will be mailed to you from Honolulu. And just like that—you’re officially newlyweds!
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Is a wedding in Hawaii legal everywhere?Absolutely! Getting married in Hawaii is legal everywhere in the world—Canada, Australia, the UK, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, all Eastern European countries, Asia, and beyond! We’ve had the joy of marrying many couples from all over the globe. Plus, we speak both German and English, so you're in great hands! For some countries, like Germany and other EU countries, an additional document is required from the Hawaii Department of Health. Don’t worry, we’ll take care of it for you for a small fee.
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Step 1 - Build Your Dream Wedding PackageDesign a wedding as unique as your love story: Choose your Oahu package & location – a breathtaking beach ceremony awaits (we handle the permit). Enhance the experience – add flowers, music, photos, video/drone, hair & makeup, transportation, and more—(we take care of every detail effortlessly. Book it! – lock in your date and get ready for an unforgettable journey together. Personal Planner - after booking we will email you a link to your very own personal planner where you can view your booking and make adjustments as you go.
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Step 2 - Prep For SuccessA little planning makes for a seamless celebration: Secure your wedding license – apply online & schedule your Hawaii pickup. Plan your travel – flights, hotel, and car rental—coordinate with loved ones for a smooth arrival. Find the perfect wedding attire – the dress, the suit, and those special touches that reflect your style. Plan your wedding dinner – whether an intimate table for two or a joyful group gathering, we have wonderful recommendations!
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Step 3 - Your Wedding DayYour dream day, effortlessly unfolding: Savor the moment – start your morning with a relaxed breakfast, laughter, and time to soak in the joy together. Enjoy a little pampering – whether it’s hair & makeup or getting ready side by side, embrace this special time. Meet us at the beach – where the waves, sand, and sky set the perfect stage for your vows. Say "I Do" – a heartfelt ceremony, beautifully captured to cherish forever. Your 2-hour beach permit ensures a relaxed and magical experience.
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Step 4 - The Love Story Continues...Your wedding is just the beginning your island adventure: Dine under the stars – we can recommend the perfect romantic spots. Celebrate with a Luau – experience the rhythm of the islands with music, dance, and island flavors. Explore together – from sunset cruises to waterfall hikes, your adventure continues. Relax & unwind – a spa day, a quiet beach moment, or simply soaking it all in.
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How do we schedule our wedding (or vow renewal)?(TEST) 1. Review Packages First, take a look at our available wedding packages to find the one that best suits your vision and needs. We offer a range of options, from intimate beach ceremonies to full-service packages with photography, music, and more. 2. Choose Preferred Location(s) Next, select your preferred wedding location(s). We offer several beautiful beaches on Oahu, each with its own unique charm. Feel free to ask for recommendations or guidance to find the perfect spot for your ceremony. 3. Complete Reservation Form, Contract, and Deposit Invoice Once you've chosen your package and location, you'll complete the reservation form and review the contract. This will outline all the details of your wedding, ensuring everything is clear. Along with that, you’ll receive the deposit invoice. 4. Make Deposit Payment to Officially Schedule Your Wedding To officially secure your wedding date and begin planning, you’ll make the deposit payment. Once processed, your wedding is officially booked, and we’ll get started on bringing your dream day to life!
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What happens next after booking?(TEST) 1. Confirm All Details, Including Your Crew Contact Coordination As your wedding day approaches, we’ll confirm all the important details, including your crew’s contact information. This ensures everyone is on the same page and that all team members are ready to help make your day flawless. 2. Final Confirmation Sent Days Before Ceremony A few days before your ceremony, we’ll send you a final confirmation with all the event details—time, location, and any last-minute updates. This gives you peace of mind knowing everything is set for your big day. 3. Day Before Ceremony, Reconfirm Exact Time and Location The day before the ceremony, we’ll double-check the exact time and location with you to ensure there are no surprises. This gives you the opportunity to make any last-minute adjustments and confirm everything is in place. 4. Arrive Early for Your Ceremony to Meet Crew and Review Details On the day of your wedding, we’ll ask you to arrive a little early to meet with your crew. This is the perfect time to review the details, make any final tweaks, and ensure everyone is ready for the ceremony to go smoothly!
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What is the Personal Online Wedding Planner?Once you’ve booked with us, we’ll send you a link to create your very own Personal Online Wedding Planner! This super helpful tool keeps track of all your wedding tasks and is mobile-friendly, so you can make updates on the go! Your Online Planner will create a unique URL just for you, and anytime you make a change, we’ll both get an email to keep everything up to date. If you ever misplace your link, just let us know.
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Why choose the Oahu Island Weddings team over a bunch of random individuals?Why Choose Oahu Island Weddings What sets us apart is our local expertise and commitment to making your wedding flawless. As a family-owned business in Waikiki, we’re more than planners—we’re your local guides, offering personalized support every step of the way. With insider access to Oahu’s best locations, we provide a seamless experience. Our exclusive photography packages include more images, faster turnaround, and free joint copyright—no hidden fees—while we handle everything from permits to photography, ensuring your dream day is in the hands of seasoned professionals. The Risks of Choosing Separate Vendors While hiring separate experts like a photographer, minister, and musician might seem like a way to save money, it can lead to big problems if they haven’t worked together before. Coordination is key for a smooth wedding, and without it, important moments can be missed. When everything flows seamlessly with a dedicated team, you get the best results. Don’t leave your big day to chance—always choose a company with a full, coordinated team for a flawless experience!
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What do we need to know about deposits and payments?A small $200 deposit is all it takes to reserve your wedding date, with the remaining balance authorized on your credit card just a few days before your big day! The $200 deposit is non-refundable if you cancel more than 60 days in advance, but if you need to cancel within 60 days, please check our Terms of Service for details. We happily accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express for payments.
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Do you handle the permits and licenses?(TEST) Yes, we handle all the permits and licenses for you! We take care of the paperwork so you can focus on enjoying your special day, ensuring everything is in place and legally smooth for your beach wedding.
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Can we make changes to our reservation?(TEST) Yes, you can make changes to your reservation! Additional items can be added up until the ceremony date, subject to availability. If you need to cancel, just let us know at least 60 days before the ceremony to avoid any penalties. We’re here to help make everything as flexible as possible for you!
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What’s the payment schedule?(TEST) The payment schedule can depend on the package you select and your specific needs. Typically, a deposit is required to secure your date, with the remaining balance due closer to the ceremony. We’ll work with you to create a flexible payment plan that fits your timeline, ensuring everything is taken care of smoothly!
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What should we wear?(TEST) For a beach wedding, we recommend wearing casual and comfortable attire. Since you’ll be on the sand, high heels aren’t the most practical choice. Opt for something relaxed and easy to move in, so you can fully enjoy the beauty of the beach and your special day!
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Do we need to bring anything ourselves?(TEST) Yes, there are a few things you’ll need to bring with you. Be sure to have your wedding license, rings, and vows on hand. We also recommend bringing tissues for the warm day, water or a hydroflask to stay hydrated, and makeup powder for quick touch-ups. Other than that, we’ve got everything else covered to make sure your day is perfect!
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Do we meet our wedding planner before the wedding?Most wedding planners will meet with you upon your arrival to Oahu to go over all the details for your big day if you request so. If you are planning a wedding where you'll have a group of people attend, a few bride's maids, groom's men, large flower order and reception venue to go over, it's a good idea. We also offer a rehearsal service for larger groups at an additional cost. However, if your wedding is small or even just the two of you, it may not be necessary. Most couples will just meet the minister & photographer at the beach at the specified time of your wedding.
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How long is the ceremony?(TEST) The ceremony is typically a beautiful 15 to 20 minutes, followed by the remainder of your wedding shoot, which usually lasts 40 minutes or more, depending on the package you choose. We’ll make sure every moment is captured beautifully, and you’ll have plenty of time to relax and enjoy your special day!
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Will you be there the whole day?(TEST) For a beach wedding, the photographer will be there to capture all the important moments of your ceremony and post-ceremony photos. Typically, we provide coverage for the duration of the ceremony and your portrait session afterward. If you'd like additional coverage for the entire day, we can customize a package that includes extended hours to ensure every moment is captured!
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Will we have a rehearsal?Most wedding planners will offer a rehearsal if you have a larger group and a coordination fee in place to cover the extra time. Some planners automatically add a coordination fee, which helps with arranging everything—like your bridal flowers, coordinating vendors, and even a rehearsal. Others may charge a nominal fee specifically for a rehearsal, which is typically optional. Since beach weddings are often more relaxed and less formal, a rehearsal may not always be needed—it depends on whether you prefer a laid-back or more structured experience. If you’d like to arrange a rehearsal, we’ve got all the details here!
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What happens if it rains?Expect sunny skies with occasional showers and a perfect 80°F temperature for your ceremony and photos! The cool trade winds keep things comfortable, and most people love the relaxed island vibe in shorts and tops. While tropical rain is possible, it’s usually short and localized, clearing up quickly to reveal beautiful blue skies. No need to worry—rain won’t stop your celebration! We can easily adjust the ceremony time, move to a drier spot like the sunny south shore, or reschedule if needed (which has only happened a couple of times in 15 years!). As Mark Twain said, "If you don’t like the weather, wait a few minutes!"
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What happens if we’re late?(TEST) Yes, if the ceremony starts late, there may be additional fees for vendors and photography time. To ensure everything runs smoothly, we recommend arriving on time so that we can stick to the planned schedule and make the most of your special day. If there are any delays, just let us know, and we’ll do our best to adjust as needed!
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What if we would like to reschedule (or) cancel our wedding?Rescheduling Your Wedding Date Sometimes life takes unexpected turns, and plans may need to change—whether it’s a family emergency, work conflict, or something else entirely. No worries, we’ve got you covered! If you need to reschedule your wedding date, there’s no extra deposit required if you’re outside of 60 days. Within 60 days, a small additional deposit of $200 is needed to reschedule, which will go toward your final bill. We’re also happy to adjust your event’s start time if our schedule allows. Simply reach out via email or use your Personal Online Wedding Planner to make any changes, and we’ll ensure everything is smooth sailing! If You Need to Cancel We understand—sometimes life just happens, and plans change. Whether it’s family pressure or deciding it’s best to marry back home, we’re here for you. If you need to cancel, just let us know at least 60 days before your event to avoid any penalties. You can always check out our full cancellation policy, and we’ll do our best to support you through whatever changes come your way.

