A Simple, Elegant Wedding at Palauea Beach, Maui | S + Y
When S + Y contacted me to photograph their intimate Maui beach wedding, they knew exactly on what beach they wanted to say their vows. They had spent some time looking through my portfolio, and they were drawn to Palauea Beach because it has quite a long stretch of white sand, blue ocean views, palm trees, some lava rocks, and some greenery lining the beach. A little bit of everything that you could want on a Maui beach!
This sweet couple lives in California, and they invited a handful of family and friends to join them in their marriage celebration. They met 3 years ago while attending university in southern California. S + Y both work in the tech industry, and their jobs are 100% remote. The flexibility in their work situation allowed them to plan a long honeymoon following their wedding, with a month’s stay on Maui.
We arrived at Palauea Beach to find that it was overcast and cloudy. These conditions are actually ideal for a beach wedding for a couple of different reasons: It keeps it from getting hot and uncomfortable for the couple and guests during the ceremony AND it allows for even lighting for photography! I know that it’s hard not to worry about what might happen with the weather on your wedding day, but I encourage couples not to fret too much. After all, the weather is not something that any of us can control! Maui is a tropical island, and while the weather is often bright and sunny, there are times when it’s not. Regardless if the sun is shining brightly or not, the views and sights and sounds, however, are always stunning. You can read more about what to expect for the weather on Maui here.
We started off the afternoon by taking some individual portraits on the beach. S wore a simple, yet elegant gown, and I absolutely loved the stunning orchid flower pieces that she wore in her hair. Y wore a long-sleeved shirt and tie. The couple was striving for a simple elegancy for their wedding day, and I think they nailed it!
Y’s uncle walked S down the beach to the ceremony location. The couple’s immediate family lives in China, but they were excited to have an aunt and uncle join them for their wedding day. Their ceremony was incredible touching with many sweet moments and a few tears too!
Following the signing of the marriage certificate, we jumped right into friend and family portraits. We did some traditional poses portraits, and also some fun ones with Y’s friends. There were lots of laughs 😂
After the fun portraits with family and friends, the remainder of the evening was spent capturing photos of S and Y. This beautiful couple clearly adored each other, and they had a great time creating memories of their wedding day at Palauea Beach.
As we were wrapping up the couples portraits, I looked at the beach and I was absolutely amazed to find that we were the only people on the beach. Even during the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, I didn’t see beaches this empty! Wow! What a blessing for this couple and their friends and family to enjoy.
Ho'omaika'i ana (Congratulations) on your marriage, S and Y! It was an honor to be your Maui wedding photographer! I wish you the very best as you begin this next stage in life together.
Ceremony Location: Palauea Beach, Maui
Planner: A Perfect Paradise Wedding
Hair & Make-up Artist: Kymberly Marr
Florals: Maui Blooms
Officiant: Kuya Alamodin
Photographer: Kathryn Haldiman
Kind words from the bride:
The photos are awesome!! Exactly what I wanted and even better!
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