AinaKai Photography: Hawaii Wedding & Lifestyle Photography blog

New! Hawaii Wedding Blog

2010-01-21T11:52:00.000-08:00

Hawaii Wedding and Lifestyle Photography Blog

We will be featuring recent weddings and engagements sessions that we have photographed, amazing wedding venues in Hawaii, tips to get the best wedding photos, lifestyle and family photo shoots, and, of course, special offers on our new blog. If you would like to see any other information, let us know. And don't forget to tell us what you think of the new blog - we are always looking for ways to improve.

Ko'olau Ballrooms Wedding: Kaneohe, Oahu

2010-01-18T18:57:00.000-08:00

Darwin and MaryAlyce, a couple from Alaska, enjoyed a destination wedding in Kaneohe. They said their vows with the lush Ko'olau mountains as the backdrop. Check out MaryAlyce's "something blue" shoes! Around 100 guests flew in from Alaska to celebrate with the couple. The black-and-white-with-a-splash-of-pink themed reception was held in the Glass Ballroom at Ko'olau Ballrooms. As alway, the event and catering staff at Ko'olau Ballrooms did a fantastic job. Congratulations and best wishes to the happy couple and their cute little boy!

Engagement Session: Waialae-Kahala Beach, Oahu

2010-01-08T12:06:00.000-08:00

Become a fan on our facebook page to get the scoop on our special offers. We are presently offering a $99 engagement session to Hawaii residents who plan to hold their wedding on the island of Oahu. Engagement session needs to be booked by Valentine's Day.

Ihilani Resort Ko Olina Wedding

2010-01-02T19:28:00.000-08:00

Eric, a Canadian, met Sarah, an Aussie, when he took a job in Melbourne. They had a destination wedding at the Ihilani Resort in Ko Olina, Oahu. Around 100 guests flew in from all over the world to celebrate with this beautiful couple. The groom got ready at the nearby Beach Villas at Ko Olina while the bride and bridesmaids got ready at the Ihilani Resort. The ceremony was held at the Ihilani Gazebo and the reception was in the Lurline Room. Congratulations to Eric and Sarah!

Guitarist: Jon Basebase
DJ: Dynamic Sounds

If you're planning a wedding at Ko'olina and would like to see more pictures taken at the Ihilani or Lanikuhonua, please contact us.

Trash the Dress: Lanikai Beach, Oahu

2009-12-23T22:08:00.000-08:00

This lovely couple's wedding photography package included an engagement session, but due to scheduling conflicts and weather issues, the engagement session turned into a trash-the-dress at Lanikai Beach.

We will be posting special offers on the AinaKai facebook page starting in January 2010. Here's wishing all our blog readers Mele Kalikimaka (Merry Christmas) and a very happy New Year.

Wedding at Koolau Ballrooms, Kaneohe, Oahu

2009-12-14T16:54:00.000-08:00

We were honored to be part of Josh and Jessie's fun wedding at the beautiful Ko'olau Ballrooms in Kaneohe. Best wishes to you and we hope you enjoy a sneak peek of your photos. We also enjoyed working with the other vendors at the wedding. A big shout out to Merryl Iraha who did a great job coordinating the wedding.

wedding coordinator and favors: Merryl Iraha, Island Treats Creations
flowers: Terrie Easley Designs
DJ: Tony So
video: IMF Visions

Warm-up Day for Eddie Aikau Big Wave Surfing Contest 2009: Waimea Bay

2009-12-08T13:44:00.000-08:00

The world's best big wave surfers practiced for the 2009 Eddie Aikau Big Wave Surf Contest at Waimea Bay on Oahu's North Shore yesterday. They practiced in 20 to 25 ft. surf in choppy, windy conditions. Jamilah Star (second photo) got smashed against the rocks near the shorebreak on her first paddle-out, but she went back in and surfed with the big boys. You go, girl! Getting back on shore was another challenge and the crowds lining Kamehameha Highway and the beach cheered when the surfers came in. Several of them, including Jamilah, dropped to their knees and thanked God.

I don't know who most of the surfers in the shots are. The surfer with the red board is Kala Alexander. If you know who the rest are, let me know.

The Eddie is on today in beautiful weather and 40 ft. surf at Waimea Bay.

Hawaii Vacation Portraits: Kailua, Oahu

2009-12-02T15:26:00.000-08:00

This family enjoyed a Kailua-style vacation recently. One of the first things Grandma organized when she was planning the vacation was a family portrait session! We enjoyed meeting this lovely family.

Ihilani Resort, Ko'olina: Couple Portraits

2009-11-28T01:53:00.000-08:00

Destination Wedding on Kailua Beach: Michael & Eri

2009-11-19T16:50:00.001-08:00

This gorgeous bride and good-looking groom from Japan got married on an unusually windy overcast day in Kailua, Oahu, but the sun came out in time for their ceremony - hooray! It was a sweet, heartfelt bilingual ceremony full of happy tears. The couple took some sand from Kailua Beach with them in two small vials that they wore around their necks. Congratulations Michael and Eri! We wish you a very happy life together.

Flowers: Emi's Flowers and Gifts

Ke Iki Beach Wedding, Oahu: Mark & Morgan

2009-11-09T16:33:00.001-08:00

Mark and Morgan, an ocean-loving couple, had a destination wedding on beautiful Ke Iki Beach on the North Shore of Oahu. Their friends and family rented all the units at the oceanfront Ke Iki Beach Bungalows, where the reception was held. The weather gods were kind to this surfer-diver couple as the gale force winds died down and rainclouds gave way to a beautiful sunset during the ceremony officiated by Rev. William Webb (808-625-9692). The outdoor reception was a fun affair with a scrumptious Indonesian buffet catered by Annie of Baik Catering (808-393-1513, baikcatering@hotmail.com). Congratulations to Mark and Morgan!

View more images of this wedding on the Oahu Wedding Photo facebook page.

Roy's Restaurant Wedding, Hawaii Kai: Joe & Jess

2009-11-02T02:04:00.000-08:00

Jess and Joe's wedding took place in a beautifully decorated private dining room of Roy's Restaurant in Hawaii Kai. Jessie's sister and mom served as the wedding coordinators and Joe's father officiated the ceremony. Over 100 guests celebrated with the happy couple. Congratulations to Jess and Joe!

Catering: Roy's Restaurant
Hair and Makeup: Leslie Gallagher

Family Portraits on Lanikai Beach, Oahu

2009-10-29T12:35:00.000-07:00

Hawaii Engagement Photography: Kama'aina Discount

2009-10-26T12:20:00.000-07:00

Fifty percent kama'aina discount on engagement photography: $180 (regular price is $360). E-session package includes one hour of on-location photography on Oahu, a disc of edited and enhanced images with copyright release, and a private online gallery of images to share with family and friends. Offer is valid until January 30, 2010.

We are also offering beautiful Save the Date cards on high quality, eco-friendly paper. Please contact us for more information.

Molii Gardens Wedding: Jordan and Jessica

2009-10-22T16:27:00.000-07:00

Slideshow (may take a few minutes to download).

Oahu Wedding Photo clients Jordan and Jessica tied the knot at Molii Gardens, Kualoa Ranch a couple weeks ago. The overcast skies did not dampen the spirits of this young couple and their friends and family. They exchanged vows by the water in a ceremony officiated by two of their friends. One of my favorite images of this wedding is when it started to sprinkle and Jordan looked up at the sky and said "Why does it have to rain on my wedding day?" We reminded him that rain and rainbows are considered a blessing in Hawaii. Both Jordan and Jessica of course knew this because they had both grown up in Hawaii. The rain stopped after just a few minutes. Congratulations to Jordan and Jessica! Enjoy the slideshow. We will post reception pictures later.

No Marriage Licenses on Furlough Days in Hawaii

2009-10-21T11:32:00.000-07:00

Couples planning a destination wedding in Hawaii should be aware that marriage licenses will not be issued on the following days due to state worker furloughs, which start this Friday.

Friday, October 23 and 30

Friday, November 20 and 27

Thursday, December 24 and 31

For more information on how to apply for a marriage license in Hawaii, please visit the Hawaii State Department of Health marriage license office.

Koolau Golf Club Wedding: Lawrence and Naomi

2009-10-18T23:18:00.000-07:00

Naomi and Lawrence tied the knot at Ko'olau Ballrooms in Kaneohe. They had a lot of children at their wedding, so Naomi's talented sister had a kid's favor buffet set up to keep the little ones entertained during the reception. What a good idea! It was a wonderful celebration with a Lion Dance and Taiko Drummers. Best wishes to Naomi and Lawrence.

Honolulu Vacation Photography

2009-10-12T02:23:00.000-07:00

Grandma, mom and daughter visited Oahu over the summer to enjoy some quality time together. The young lady belongs on the stage - she was so full of fun and theatrics and kept us laughing through photo session. We enjoyed meeting these three lovely gals.

Kailua Sunset Wedding: Steven and Kori

2009-10-06T13:48:00.000-07:00

Kori and Steve, a fun-loving couple from Alaska, enjoyed a destination wedding on Kailua Beach last month. Kori's relatives on Oahu and Kauai helped plan a beautiful Hawaiian wedding ceremony that included ukulele music and a hula dance. Guests were given Japanese umbrellas and lauhala fans to keep them cool during the ceremony. The lively reception was held at Pah Ke's Restaurant in Kaneohe. Pah Ke's is a local favorite for Chinese food and mouth-watering desserts and cakes (the owner, Raymond Siu, used to be the pastry chef for the Halekulani Hotel). Congratulations and best wishes to Kori and Steve! Steve will never forget their anniversary: 9-9-09!

Flowers: Flowers by Carole
Officiant: Rev. David Leonard Vega
Wedding dress: David's Bridal
Cake: Raymond Siu

Look for more images of this wedding on our facebook page soon.

Hawaii Family Photography

2009-10-02T12:32:00.000-07:00

Lanikai Wedding: Nelson and Tricia

2009-09-25T13:44:00.000-07:00

A sign that read "Toes in the sand is how we'd planned," greeted Nelson and Tricia's close family and friends on Lanikai Beach. The guests left their slippers by the sign and walked down to the water's edge to watch the couple exchange vows in a short, sweet ceremony officiated by Rev. Diana Warrington. The reception dinner was held at a Lanikai hillside residence. The beautiful and delicious cake was made by Cakeworks. Congratulations and best wishes to a lovely couple!

By the Sea Vacation Photography: Lanikai, Oahu

2009-09-22T00:35:00.000-07:00

Three brothers and their lovely families enjoyed a summer vacation in Waikiki, Oahu. They requested family photos on a beautiful beach, so, we suggested Lanikai Beach. After the photo session, the kids enjoyed pizza from Bob's Pizzeria and shave ice from Island Snow. We hope to catch up with you on your next visit to Hawaii!

Destination Wedding on a Waikiki Catamaran

2009-09-16T16:16:00.000-07:00

Dylan and Jessica chartered a catamaran for their wedding on the waters off Waikiki. Diamond Head, a Hawaiian sunset and the blue Pacific was the backdrop for their small destination wedding in Hawaii. This was the first time we had photographed a wedding on a boat and it was fun! Before the party started on the water, the couple wanted some photos on land. The sunset ceremony on the Kahala Kai was emotional and heartfelt. The groom had a ceramic wedding ring because of his work. The twenty some guests enjoyed heavy pupus (the summer rolls were yummy), champagne and delicious cupcakes made by the talented Vikki of Sunshine's Cake Creations. Congratulations and best wishes to Dylan and Jessica!

Catamaran: Kahala Kai

Catering: Panya

Coordinator: Katy Castillo Weddings

Cupcakes: Sunshine's Cake Creations

Flowers: Patty's Floral Designs

Hair/Makeup: Beauty by Tania

Officiant: Rev. Greg Christopherson

PS: We would also like to congratulate makeup artist Tania DeJesus on her recent marriage to a popular teacher at Punahou.

View more photos of this wedding on wedding coordinator Katie Castillo's website.

Outrigger Canoe Club Wedding, Waikiki

2009-09-11T13:47:00.000-07:00

The Outrigger Canoe Club, a storied oceanfront private club in Waikiki, was the venue for Tom and Jane's sunset wedding. The ceremony, officiated by Rev. Yukio Hamada, was attended by about 80 of the couples' close friends and relatives. The buffet dinner, catered by the Club, was amazing. The couple enjoyed a breathtaking Hawaiian sunset during their first dance, bouquet and garter toss. Speaking of garter toss, the lucky guy who caught the garter was delighted to find money attached to it! Congratulations and best wishes to a very gracious couple. Thank you for letting us be part of your celebration.

Wedding Proposal and Engagement Photos on Oahu, Hawaii

2009-09-04T00:56:00.000-07:00

This couple came to Hawaii from the Bay Area to attend her brother's wedding in Ko'olina. They wanted some photos taken to remember their time on Oahu. Although, they had planned to get married next year, he hadn't yet formally proposed or given her an engagement ring. What better place to do that than in Hawaii?! Part way into the photo session, he surprised her by proposing! Check out the cute hula girl ring box!

Family Portraits at the Hilton Hawaiian Village

2009-08-27T23:40:00.000-07:00

This family celebrated Mom's birthday at the Hilton Hawaiian Village recently. Dad surprised mom with a family portrait session, something she has been wanting for a while. While the kids were hunting for hermit crabs, we took some photos of mom and dad.

Vow Renewal: Waimanalo Bay, Oahu

2009-08-25T19:11:00.000-07:00

This family flew in from San Diego to watch Mom and Dad renew their vows on Waimanalo Beach this summer. Congratulations and best wishes!

Kahala Family Photography: Waialae Beach, Oahu

2009-08-12T19:22:00.000-07:00

A family visiting from the Bay Area, stayed with family in Kahala and had their photos taken at nearby Waialae Beach Park.

Lanikai Destination Wedding, Oahu: John and Lisa

2009-08-06T18:09:00.000-07:00

John and Lisa's intimate destination wedding in Lanikai can be described as simple elegance. They exchanged vows in front of a few family members on the lanai of a private hillside residence that overlooked the Mokuluas. After the ceremony, we hurried down to the beach to take a few quick photos before nightfall. Congratulations to John and Lisa!

Officiant: Rev. Frank Mak

View more images of this wedding on our facebook page.

By the Sea Family Photography: Oahu

2009-07-31T02:09:00.001-07:00

This family came to Oahu to attend a wedding and decided to have a lifestyle photography session in Kailua.

Vow Renewal on Kailua Beach, Oahu

2009-07-28T00:53:00.000-07:00

Rob and Robin renewed their vows on Kailua Beach to celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary. It was a beautiful, simple ceremony attended by their two cute sons. Best wishes to Rob, Robin and their 'ohana!

Flower lei: Emi's Gift and Flowers

Officiant: Rev. Dave Vega

OneWed Honors AinaKai Photography for Excellence in Wedding Photography

2009-07-22T12:32:00.000-07:00

Top Wedding Planning Website Awards Outstanding Wedding Photographers

Chicago, IL (July 22, 2009) OneWed is thrilled to award the OneWed Loves It! seal of approval to some of our most outstanding wedding photographers. After receiving thousands of professional wedding photos for consideration to be featured on our OneWed homepage, we’ve selected the best of the best from these submissions.

Those photographers with the most outstanding wedding photos will have their exceptional work featured on our homepage, with a photo credit and link to their OneWed listing. To honor these talented artists, we’ve awarded them the OneWed Loves It! seal of approval. “At OneWed we believe in sharing the love,” says Jennifer Napier, VP of Marketing. “The OneWed Loves It! seal is our way of honoring excellence in wedding photography.

As home to both the largest searchable online database of local wedding vendors (many of which are professional wedding photographers), and the buzz-worthy Savvy Scoop wedding blog, we see hundreds of real wedding photos each and every day. So we are thrilled to introduce a new group of brides-to-be to AinaKai Photography!

About OneWed
OneWed provides the largest searchable online database of local wedding vendors, with honest and detailed ratings and reviews. Founded in 2003 and re-launched in December 2008, OneWed boasts a directory of over 200,000 vendors nationwide. OneWed also features smart editorial content including tips, advice, and creative suggestions to help any couple personalize their wedding experience. With the launch of OneWed's Savvy Scoop Wedding Blog, online Wedding Checklist, Free Wedding Websites, and Honeymoon Planner, couples can continue to look to OneWed for everything from wedding dresses to planning advice. OneWed can be found online at www.OneWed.com, www.facebook.com/Wedding.Planning, and www.twitter.com/OneWed

By the Sea: Oahu Beach Portrait Photography

2009-07-20T18:41:00.000-07:00

A family from Texas visited Hawaii last month and Mom bought a lifestyle portrait session as a Father's Day present for Dad. We are happy to report that Dad (and Mom!) loved the photos :)

Kaneohe Yacht Club Wedding Slideshow

2009-07-16T11:53:00.000-07:00

Enjoy the slideshow from Tim and Melissa's wedding.

Oahu Bridal Portraits: Bruce & Feng

2009-07-12T17:17:00.000-07:00

Oahu Wedding Photo clients Bruce and Feng had an intimate destination wedding at Makapu'u Beach recently. They had a sunrise ceremony but wanted professional wedding photographs taken later in the day to capture the turquoise color of the Pacific Ocean. We were blessed with a beautiful summer's day in Hawaii. Congratulations to Bruce and Feng!

Koolau Ballrooms Wedding: Andy & Haunani

2009-07-06T13:18:00.000-07:00

Ko'olau Ballrooms at the Ko'olau Golf Club in Kaneohe was the venue for Andy and Haunani's beautiful wedding in June. Debra, the events manager extraordinaire at Ko'olau Ballrooms, and Haunani's sister Bev, did a wonderful job of making sure that everything was perfect for the wedding. Haunani walked down the aisle to a family member singing "Broken Road." The emceeing and entertainment was also provided by talented family members. Congratulations to the happy couple and to their 'ohana for coordinating such a lovely wedding.

Kailua Lanikai Family Photography

2009-06-30T16:17:00.000-07:00

Mid-Pacific Country Club Wedding: Robert & Debbie

2009-06-25T19:48:00.000-07:00

This wedding was all about celebrating with family and golfing buddies at the beautiful Mid-Pacific Country Club in Lanikai. Laura and Maile, the fab event managers at Mid-Pac CC, did a great job coordinating this wedding. Debbie and Bob kept it local by using several vendors from Kailua. Congratulations and best wishes to the happy couple.
Rev. Boyd Luna

Cake: Sweet Stop
Flowers: Picket Fence Florist

DJ: Rick Peralta, Music Express Productions

Oahu Baby Photography

2009-06-19T11:23:00.000-07:00

She's the sweetest, happiest almost-one-year-old baby we have photographed so far. Big brother was also helpful and so cute. Happy Birthday, Baby A! We look forward to photographing the whole family when your new brother or sister arrives.

Waimanalo Beach Wedding: James & Mary

2009-06-13T19:52:00.001-07:00

Mary and James had a destination wedding at an oceanfront residence on Waimanalo Beach last month. Several friends and family members flew in from New York to celebrate with the couple. We loved their invitation in a bottle; it included the Chinese symbol for double happiness. It was a perfect day for a beach wedding. We wish James and Mary double happiness!

Cake: Paradise Pastries

Catering: Chef Grant Kawasaki, Hawaiian Grown Catering

Hair/Make up: Leslie Fair

Officiant: Capt./Rev. Howie

Ihilani Wedding: Wesley and Stephanie

2009-06-04T01:00:00.000-07:00

Oahu Wedding Photo clients Wesley and Stephanie had a small destination wedding at the Ihilani Resort in Ko 'olina, Oahu, last month. The ceremony was held at the gazebo. Ihilani is a beautiful venue for weddings and their senior event planner, Renee, did a great job coordinating Wesley and Stephanie's wedding. The officiant was Cynthia Smoot and the harpist was Aileen Kawakami of Flute a la Harpe. Congratulations to Wes and Stephanie!

By the Sea: Lanikai Lifestyle Photography

2009-05-31T02:20:00.000-07:00

Military family had a lifestyle portrait session at Lanikai Beach a few days before they left Hawaii for their next post on the Mainland. We hope these photos will bring back fond memories of their time at Kaneohe Marine Corps Base Oahu.

Kaneohe Yacht Club Wedding

2009-05-14T18:34:00.000-07:00

As promised, here are a few photos from Tim and Melissa's wedding reception at Kaneohe Yacht Club. Roy of Naupaka Caterers did a great job coordinating the event and putting together a delicious menu. If you're looking for a caterer for your event, give Roy a call! Cocktail hour music was provided by Harry Koizumi. Sorry - we did not get the names of the DJ trio. Kaneohe Yacht Club is a private club in Windward Oahu. To hold an event there, you need to be sponsored by a member. KYC is a beautiful location.

Lanikai Beach Wedding: Tim & Melissa

2009-05-12T16:47:00.000-07:00

Tim and Melissa had a destination wedding at Lanikai Beach followed by a lively reception at Kaneohe Yacht Club recently. About fifty guests flew in to Oahu to celebrate with the couple. The couple's close friend, James, got ordained so he could marry Tim & Melissa! Tim announced to the guests at the ceremony that the officiant they had hired couldn't make it, so James will be performing the ceremony! Rev. James did a fabulous job :) The bride, a professional stylist and make up artist, looked gorgeous. Although, the sky looked stormy at Lanikai Beach, it did not rain. We will post photos from Kaneohe Yacht Club soon. Congratulations to Tim and Melissa!

Photo Tour: Windward Oahu

2009-05-10T02:09:00.001-07:00

We spent an afternoon with newlyweds from Texas. They took our Windward photo tour and told us that they never would have found these locations on their own. One of the advantages of taking our photo tour is that you get to visit several off the beaten path beaches where the locals hangout and hear some interesting stories about these places.

Waikiki destination wedding: Sarah and Shyaan

2009-05-01T17:01:00.000-07:00

Sarah, Shyaan and their beautiful daughter Malani, traveled from Japan to Honolulu for their destination wedding. This is the smallest wedding we've photographed recently - it was just the three of them, Judge Karen Reibus and two guests. Congratulations to Sarah and Shyaan!

By the Sea: Hawaii Family Portrait

2009-04-24T18:12:00.000-07:00

A family from Georgia braved blustery wind to have their photos taken at Kailua Beach recently. They told us it was warmer in Georgia than it was in Hawaii! These Southern charmers were real troupers and had a good time no matter what the weather.

Kailua wedding: Meagan and Kirk testimonial

2009-04-21T13:47:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much for helping capture our wedding in such incredible pictures. I just finished looking through them and they are fabulous! I have been so impressed with your work, professionalism and expertise that I am just blown away! Grant (my son) is a total ham in front of any lens and you captured it perfectly. You also captured my favorite moment of the entire day...the look on my groom's face as he saw me for the first time, PRICELESS!!

Even though the lighting wasn't perfect and the wind was blowing, you got some of the most incredible colors in those shots! The bright blues and greens in the background really set the scene, and the bridal party colors really blended well. I could not be more pleased! Thank you again - they are wonderful!

Sincerely,
Kirk, Meagan and Grant

I just can't thank the two of you enough! We received the disc in the mail yesterday, and the photos are just amazing! We could not be happier with how they turned out (and I can't stop looking at them)! Thank you again for capturing all the love, emotion and happiness of our wedding day. You are an incredibly talented couple!

Sincerely,
Meagan

By the Sea: Hawaii Lifestyle Photography

2009-04-17T14:32:00.000-07:00

Newlyweds requested couple portraits (including a few photos with Jesse, their playful chocolate Lab) at their home on the North Shore of Oahu. They told us that they didn't have a proper wedding so they have no good wedding photographs. The couple's parents were asking for photos so they decided to invest in our By the Sea lifestyle session. The weather was overcast when we started the photography but the clouds parted for a nice Hawaii sunset.

Kailua Wedding: Meagan and Kirk

2009-04-13T16:38:00.000-07:00

This post has more images than usual thanks to Meagan's 5-year-old son, Grant! He is so cute - we couldn't help but take a lot of photos of him. The couple and Grant traveled from snowy Idaho to have their destination wedding at a friend's oceanfront home on Kailua Beach during spring break. The windy overcast weather did not dampen the spirits of anyone at this joyful celebration. At the reception, the bride's niece danced the hula and the officiant and his wife, friends of the couple, sang the Hawaiian Wedding Song beautifully.

Hawaii Beach Wedding Slideshow

2009-04-09T17:11:00.001-07:00

Donica and Josh's beach wedding slideshow

Haleiwa Shingon Buddhist Wedding: Anna & AJ

2009-04-05T18:48:00.000-07:00

Oahu Wedding Photo clients Anna and AJ traveled from Florida to Hawaii to have a small destination wedding at the Haleiwa Shingon Mission, the same temple where Anna's grandparents had got married. Anna and AJ were married by the same priest who had married her grandparents! Of course, a group photograph was in order! Anna was escorted down the aisle by her grandfather. This was the first time we had photographed a Shingon Buddhist ceremony. It was simple and beautiful. The priest was so peaceful and had an aura of compassion and happiness. We are confident that the priest's blessings will bring Anna and AJ good luck, courage and peace. After the ceremony, the couple and their family went to Jameson's by the Sea for dinner. Anna and AJ had hired us to cover the ceremony and beach portraits, but we were touched that they invited us to join them for dinner at Jameson's.

Lanikuhonua Wedding Photo Book

2009-04-02T13:48:00.000-07:00

A couple who got married at Lanikuhonua last year, received their wedding photo book recently, and here's what they had to say.

"We just got it today! It’s beautiful! Thank you so much, you did such an amazing job. I looked through the book 10 times in the past two hours, I can’t put it down. It’s like reliving the whole day every time I open the book. It’s addicting :) We love it! It’s our official bragging book. I don’t think I’ve seen anyone else’s wedding documented so beautifully. And it’s my wedding! And we get to share it with everyone we love for the rest of our lives. The best investment we’ve made as a married couple thus far. Thanks again! We love Ainakai Photography! - Wendy and Jeremy"

Above is a spread from Wendy and Jeremy's photo book. You can view more photos of their beautiful Lanikuhonua wedding or their engagement photo session at Ko'olina.

We have been so fortunate to have had the opportunity to photograph the weddings of the most amazing couples so far. We have received mahalos (thank you gestures) in the way of flowers, food, heartfelt email messages and handwritten cards. They are all deeply appreciated more than you can imagine - it is the greatest reward for us. Mahalo to all our happily married couples.

Laura & Ben: St. Patty's Day Kailua Wedding

2009-03-29T13:40:00.000-07:00

Laura and Ben got married on St. Patrick's Day at a private oceanfront estate on Kailua Beach, Oahu. Although the weather forecast called for heavy rain, the luck of the Irish prevailed and Laura and Ben had a beautiful outdoor wedding. The ceremony, which included a butterfly release, was attended by about 75 friends and family members. A festive St. Patty's Day theme was carried throughout the wedding from green table linens to the green frosting on the cupcakes from Hokulani Bakery to the flowers in the bride's hair. The table centerpieces incorporated colorful Siamese Fighter (Betta) fish! Congratulations to the happy couple!

Hualalai Resort Child & Family Photography

2009-03-27T13:13:00.001-07:00

This family vacationed at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai on the Big Island of Hawaii and contacted me to take family photos and pictures of their adorable little girl. I spent a Saturday afternoon on the Big Island with this lovely family. The little girl was a bundle of energy!

Lanikai Beach, Oahu - Honeymoon Portraits

2009-03-20T16:39:00.000-07:00

Newlywed Photo Session, Oahu

2009-03-13T17:07:00.000-07:00

Silver Anniversary Portrait, Oahu, Hawaii

2009-03-13T01:06:00.000-07:00

Here's another "By the Sea" photography session to celebrate a Silver Anniversary. A couple from Canada treated their "kids" - son, daughter and daughter-in-law - to a trip to Hawaii to mark their 25th wedding anniversary. It was a blustery, overcast day at the beach, but this did not dampen the spirits of this lovely family. The girls colorful sarongs, which they had picked up from the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet just of the portrait session, looked great against the grey sky. This was another extended photo session with family portraits as well as couple portraits. We'll post the newlyweds photos in the next post.

Engagement Photography Session: Oahu

2009-03-07T22:52:00.000-08:00

Engagement photos from the previous post. This couple was part of the family that celebrated an 80th birthday with a family reunion in Hawaii.

80th Birthday Family Reunion Portrait: Oahu, Hawaii

2009-03-06T13:39:00.000-08:00

This family had a reunion in Hawaii to celebrate dad's/granddad's/great-granddad's 80th birthday. They wanted a lot of traditional family group photos. One of the "kids" was also celebrating an engagement, so they opted for an extended portrait package and combined a family reunion portrait session with an engagement session (photos to be posted next!)

Sunset Beach Wedding Oahu: Donica and Josh

2009-02-24T13:46:00.000-08:00

Josh and Donica had a beautiful sunset ceremony at Ke Iki Beach on the North Shore last weekend. They said their vows in front of Rev. Greg Christopherson and about 50 close friends and family. The reception was held at the Turtle Bay Resort. Donica and Josh were so laid back and calm on their wedding day - they acted like it was just another day at the beach - amazing! Donica and Josh are clients of Oahu Wedding Photo, my wife's company, so she was the lead photographer and got to boss me around :)

Couple Portrait: Oahu, Hawaii

2009-02-18T19:44:00.000-08:00

Here's another By-the-Sea lifestyle portrait of a young couple. This cute couple from California visited Oahu and had their pictures taken on beautiful Kailua Beach.

Ihilani Resort Wedding slide show

2009-02-13T00:03:00.000-08:00

Slideshow from Aja and Ryan's Ihilani Resort wedding reception in Ko'olina, Hawaii. The movie may take a few minutes to download.

Song: At Last

Artist: Etta James

By the Sea: Kailua Beach, Hawaii

2009-02-05T14:55:00.000-08:00

Another By-the-Sea lifestyle portrait of a family from Canada. They had a 2-hour session with two photographers and we got lots of lovely photos. After the beach, we went to their vacation rental and took some photos of the kids playing by the pool.

Hawaii Lifestyle Portrait

2009-01-26T18:58:00.001-08:00

A family from Alaska visited Hawaii and had a lifestyle portrait taken. The boys enjoyed taking photos of each other with my camera!

Ihilani Resort Wedding: Aja & Ryan

2009-01-20T12:43:00.000-08:00

We photographed the wedding reception of Ryan and Aja at the Ihilani Resort, Ko Olina, in late December. It was an afternoon filled with laughter, surprises, great food, song and dance.

Diamond Head Beach: Honeymoon Portraits

2009-01-14T16:25:00.000-08:00

A couple from England spent their honeymoon in Waikiki and had some sunset portraits taken at Diamond Head Beach, Oahu. The couple was thrilled to see a monk seal on the beach that day.

Oahu Wedding Slideshow

2009-01-06T11:07:00.000-08:00

Slideshow from Hannah and George's wedding at Molii Gardens, Kualoa on Oahu, Hawaii. The movie may take a few minutes to download!

Song: Moon River

Artist: Louis Armstrong

Hawaii Vow Renewal Kahala-Waialae Beach

2009-01-05T19:14:00.000-08:00

This couple held their vow renewal ceremony on Kahala Beach while vacationing with their children in Hawaii recently. It was a rainy winter's day but the rain stopped in time for Rev. Frank Mak to perform the ceremony. After the ceremony, the family enjoyed a walk on the beach and returned to the Hale Koa Hotel for some family portraits to mark the special occasion.

Molii Gardens Wedding: George & Hannah

2008-12-11T18:38:00.001-08:00

Hannah and George got married at Hau'ula Congregational Church, a beautiful Hawaiian church founded by George's great-grandfather in the early 1900s. True to its heritage, Sunday service is held in both English and Hawaiian. The reception, coordinated by Hannah and her 'ohana, was held at Moli'i Gardens at Kualao Ranch. George had not seen the lovely reception site with the Hawaiian fishpond until he arrived there after the ceremony. We think he loved it!

Hawaii Beach Portrait: Lanikai Beach

2008-12-10T14:55:00.001-08:00

In addition to Hawaii weddings and e-sessions, we shoot on location family portraits. Here is one of our "by the sea" lifestyle portraits taken at Lanikai Beach on Oahu. If you're interested in a child or family outdoor portrait session, please visit our hawaii lifestyle portraits website.

Wedding Photo Clothesline

2008-11-25T11:50:00.000-08:00

A photo clothesline is a great conversation piece. It's also an easy, low cost way to entertain guests while they wait for the ceremony or reception to begin. All you need are some photos of the bride and groom and their families, some rustic looking jute string or pretty ribbon for your line and some small clothes pins. You can hang the photos in chronological or random order and even include a caption or short story on the back of each photograph. Be sure to include some beautiful photos from your outdoor engagement photo shoot!

You could include a second line for guest photos or bridal party photos. Ask guests to send in a photo prior to the wedding. The theme could be funny photos, baby photos, guest weddings or photos of the guest with the bride or groom way back when. Your guests will have fun looking at all the photographs.

If you had a photo clothesline at your wedding, email us a photo of it and we will post it here.

Lanikuhonua wedding: Wendy & Jeremy

2008-11-12T16:59:00.000-08:00

Lanikuhonua, where heaven meets earth, was the setting for Wendy and Jeremy's wedding. They exchanged vows in front of family and friends in an emotional ceremony. The reception was held at Kapolei Golf Club, where the couple, who are both in show biz, got the party started with a fabulous entrance dance and kept the laughter flowing all evening long. View Wendy and Jeremy's engagement session at the Ihilani Resort lagoon.

Vendors:

Officiant: Paster Art Larson

Musician/ukulele player: Ka Lei Gamiao

Flowers: Paradise Florist

Reception: Kapolei Golf Club

Emcee: Lanai

Videographers: Video by Jen

Sound and Lights: Mystical Sound Productions

Promotion: Katy Castillo Weddings

2008-11-07T12:28:00.000-08:00

Book Katy Castillo Weddings and AinaKai Photography for your 2009 wedding and receive 10 percent off both wedding coordination and photography packages. Contracts to both vendors need to be completed by May 31, 2009.

Katy Castillo Weddings provides boutique style wedding coordination services dedicated to the creation of unique, personal and simply unforgettable weddings.

Katy is a great wedding coordinator. She is easy to work with and loves planning weddings. Give her a call at 808-744-9519.