Newbie...Stressed Planning DW in Hawaii

Destination2012 · July 22, 2010

Hi Everyone,

My name is Patti and I am attempting to plan a destination wedding in either Kauai or Maui in August of 2012!! It is so hard to pick an island....esp when I have never been to Hawaii before. We are thinking Hanalei Bay area of Kauai because we want to get married on the beach with our toes in the sand with our closest friends and family at our side....or either at a venue in Maui.

We definitely want our reception outdoors under tents so we can dine under the stars...if it is w/ in our budget. We are hoping for less than 30 people....since we are paying for the entire wedding ourselves and we are trying to keep cost down as much as we can.

Lately I've been getting overwhelmed when I search online because there is so much information out there.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!!!! Thanks

msjulie5475 · July 22, 2010

Patti welcome to the forum. You're on the right path by listing your must haves; wedding on the beach and reception under a tent. I'd suggest keep writing down your must haves for a resort (all inclusive or not, in or out of town, price for reception, price for guests, etc.) and then talking with a TA. I hope that helps a bit.

lsjhik · July 22, 2010

GO VISIT! What a great reason for a vacation!

cookiemunchkin · July 22, 2010

Congrats and good luck with the planning! There are a ton of helpful people on this site, and a few threads dedicated to Hawaii weddings. I'm sure you'll find the answers you're looking for here!

Rolliedelta · July 22, 2010

Congrats on your upcoming marriage! Both islands are very beautiful, but I personally prefer Maui. Both have some beautiful beaches and hotels, but it can be somewhat difficult to find much of an exciting nightlife on Kauai. For that matter, it's hard to find a restaurant to serve you between 1:30pm and dinner. For that reason, I much prefer Maui for the perfect blend of untouched beauty, laid back island life, and yet some luxuries of city life within reach. But, if that stuff doesn't matter to you, than either would be great choices. Best of luck!