Nestled along the shimmering coastline of Hawaii’s Big Island, Abby and Michael’s wedding at the MAUNA LANI AUBERGE RESORT was a true celebration of love, joy, and the vibrant spirit of the islands. With nature as their co-host, their multi-day celebration captured by DMITRI & SANDRA was nothing short of magical.
Welcome Party at The Milo Tree Lawn
The festivities began the day before the wedding with an unforgettable welcome party hosted at the breathtaking Milo Tree Lawn. Surrounded by tranquil freshwater ponds and just steps from the beach, the setting was pure Hawaiian paradise.
Guests were treated to an evening of local cuisine, expertly prepared to showcase the rich flavors of the islands. From fresh seafood to tropical-inspired bites, every dish reflected the couple’s love for Hawaii’s culinary treasures. To complement the feast, signature cocktails flowed freely, giving everyone a taste of island bliss.
The bride, Abby, was the epitome of effortless elegance, wearing a flowy dress that swayed beautifully in the ocean breeze—a perfect choice for the relaxed and joyful ambiance. The evening was filled with laughter, heartfelt toasts, and an unmistakable sense of excitement for the celebration ahead.
The couple embraced the natural beauty of the Big Island, letting the ocean serve as their breathtaking backdrop. With minimal decor, the setting spoke for itself—effortless, serene, and undeniably stunning.
an Ocean Front wedding
Abby and Michael’s wedding day was a carefully curated celebration that brought together personal touches, tropical charm, and heartfelt moments. Every detail was thoughtfully planned to create a seamless blend of island elegance and the couple’s unique personalities.
The day began with a memorable first look by the canoe in the resort’s stunning lobby. Surrounded by architectural beauty and Hawaiian-inspired decor, this intimate moment set the tone for a day filled with love and excitement. Abby was radiant in her gorgeous INES DI SANTO gown, while Michael’s custom suit featured a sentimental detail—their wedding date embroidered into the lining—a subtle yet powerful nod to the significance of the day.
The tropical theme carried through every element of the event. Vibrant reds, lush greens, and sunny oranges painted a vibrant palette, perfectly complementing the island’s natural beauty. Guests were welcomed by a seating chart featuring oversized monstera and tropical leaves—a striking display that captured the exotic energy of Hawaii. Personalized cocktail napkins and stationery, including custom menu cards, added thoughtful, intimate details that guests couldn’t stop admiring.
THE PAPER GOODS
Abby and Michael’s wedding invitations by TWIN RAVENS PRESS brought a refined, contemporary twist to traditional Hawaiian motifs. Laser-cut floral borders and letterpress printing highlighted iconic elements like plumerias, hibiscus blooms, and lush tropical greenery. Thoughtful details—such as gold foil accents, a custom die-cut plumeria RSVP card, and the Japanese cane basho envelope liner—made the suite feel both modern and deeply rooted in place.
Florals Inspired by Hawaii
The vision for their wedding florals was rooted in honoring Hawaii’s breathtaking natural beauty. They chose locally sourced blooms to infuse their event with the island’s vibrant colors. From lush greenery to exotic tropical flowers, every arrangement by GRACE FLOWERS HAWAII was a reflection of their playful and joyful personalities. The vibrant palette set the tone for a day full of energy and warmth, embodying the essence of their love story and personalities.
An Intimate Ceremony by the Ocean
The couple exchanged vows against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. Choosing to let nature take center stage, focusing on the raw beauty of their surroundings. A talented guitarist played soothing melodies, creating a romantic and relaxed atmosphere. To make the ceremony even more personal, a close friend of Abby and Michael officiated, sharing heartfelt anecdotes and deep insights into their journey as a couple.
The reception, held at the renowned Canoe House, was a culinary adventure. Abby and Michael prioritized creating an extraordinary dining experience for their guests.
A Cocktail Hour to Remember
To kick off their celebration, Abby and Michael served their favorite island-inspired drinks—Mai Tais and Margaritas—giving everyone a taste of their shared love for Hawaii. Laughter and clinking glasses filled the air as friends and family mingled, soaking in the golden hues of the Big Island sunset.
Their Wedding Reception at Canoe House
The reception, held at the renowned Canoe House, was a culinary adventure. Abby and Michael prioritized creating an extraordinary dining experience for their guests. Family-style dining fostered a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere, with dishes featuring local island favorites like poke, mahi mahi, and the ever-popular malasadas. The meal was not just a feast for the taste buds but also a celebration of Hawaii’s rich culinary traditions.
Dancing into the Night
Music was an integral part of the celebration, as both Abby and Michael share a deep appreciation for it. To honor their family’s love for dancing, they chose a DJ who delivered a blend of classic oldies and contemporary hits. Guests packed the dance floor, creating unforgettable memories of joy and connection under the starlit Hawaiian sky.
Guests packed the dance floor, creating unforgettable memories of joy and connection under the starlit Hawaiian sky.
