Hawaii Spring Wedding Themes

A wedding marks a new beginning for a couple. It is a very special and joyous day for both the bride and the groom, and their families as well. It is the joining of two families as one of their own decides to join the other in holy matrimony.
Photo By Hawaii wedding Photographer
There are a lot to consider in planning for a wedding, from the theme, the colors, the flowers, guest list, and the tasks list just goes on and on. You do not want to settle for less on your wedding day of course, this is after all once in a lifetime event and a very significant one at that. You will need months to prepare and you will need enough time to consider all options to make sure that when you decide on something, it is really what you want.

This season for Hawaii weddings are delightful to the eyes, plants are blooming trees are full of leaves and the birds are chirping , although in Hawaii every day of the year is like spring. This type of wedding is easier on the budget and likely less formal of an occasion to celebrate so you dont need all the hopla . Spring weddings are all about light pastel colors, so pleasing and lovely to the eyes. You can mix different pastel colors that match the tropical florals that are blooming around you.


For this colorful wedding, lively bright colors are the theme decorations, you can have fairies and butterflies as icons. You can maybe place a décor of these on each table, complimented with wonderfully colored flowers like yellow sunflowers and pink roses.

The wedding giveaways you can have your guests take home to remember the special wedding by, may be some fairy figurines, butterfly glass decors, or a photo of you and your partner placed in a spring themed frame. You can also add in a short thank you note to thank your guests for their presence and for their joining you and your partner in the beginning of your lives together.

Themed weddings are usually and justly held at a garden. With flowers, green grasses, trees, and the rest of the nature to remind of spring. Even if most spring weddings are celebrated or held at gardens, you may have your own spring wedding elsewhere. If you are fond of the beach, you may have a wedding on the beach if you wish. You can just have the whole decoration put up, not too much is needed but enough that can bring out your spring theme. And you can just have chairs placed for guests to sit on. If you wish to celebrate an indoor wedding, this can also be done, just have the decorations ready to be put up. Your wedding day can be anything you and your partner want it to be, all you have to keep in mind is the budget and also the number of guests you will be expecting.

Remember not to stress out the preparation part too much. You will also want to enjoy the wedding preparations of course, you would not want to look back only with stress and frustrations to remember the wedding preparations by. Just make sure you allow ample time for you and your partner to prepare for you wedding day. The wedding date should be set months before so that you will not be caught off guard with preparing and all the small details that have a way of sneaking up on you.
Just remember you and your partner finally committing to each other forever.
Kauai weddings and wedding theme ideas
More info email islandweddings@hotmail.com or cal 808 294-9385

Their Wedding in hawaii funny photo

Elizabeth Ginnett & Brian Cox got married in Hawaii with Aloha Island Weddings
We would like to congratulate her on her Oahu beach wedding. she sent us over a picture of the ceremony and an email in regard to her planning the wedding.
they had fun taking photo after their wedding as you can see them making a funny photo to each other after the shoot.

Her personal email to the Wedding planner.
" As far as our week and plans with you, I would also like to confirm when and where and what time we should meet you on Wednesday the 13th. I know we would like you to see Aunt Wilma and Uncle Richards house in Kailua that day, and we also need to take care of our wedding license. I was also hoping that we could meet with the minister 'Mahalani Mix" on Wednesday as well? Should we contact him ourselves, or can you set up a meeting with him? We would like to do a special part in the ceremony that honors our "Ohana". I recently lost both my Grandma's this past year and I would like to have white Roses for them.

I also wanted to confirm our decisions for the cake. We decided that we will only need a two layer cake after all. We don't need the third layer. We have decided on Chocolate and Strawberries and Cream.

For the cake decorations I would like to have two white square layers with fondant with a bright fushia ribbon lining the bottom of both layers. I would then love green cybidium orchids flowing down one side with some pink/purple orchids added as well.

their Hawaiian websit may be viewed here


Photo tour : Pre wedding bridal photography : Hawaii Wedding Ceremony







By the misfit bride : Wedding theme ideas and beach weddings

Advise from Hawaii wedding specialist

Advise from Oahu wedding specialist of www.bluehawaiiweddings.com
There is no other word that best describes a wedding aside from “romantic”. Two people looking forward to spend the rest of their lives with each other, exchanging vows and promises in front of their families and friends, being brave and taking the step toward raising a family, now, what can be more romantic than that? So it is given already that a wedding event is romantic by itself. However, it can be made more loving and passionate by making use of romantic wedding themes.

First we suggest to break away and fly to an exotic island like Hawaii to have your wedding!!
Invite no one so you can have all the attention where you want it on eachother !!
give each other massages and be full of surprises .

A romantic mood of love is all about alone time with each other , candlelight, champagne, subtle colors, soft and delicate flowers, chiffon materials, fine music and elegant decorations in a beautiful aura of ambiance.
This getaway alone time with each other creates more intimate ceremonies . But of course, if you really want to invite more people, you can do so. Just remember that in planning a big wedding, some of the romantic elements may be lost in the hustle and bustle of making sure family and friends are content .
Stay turned for more Hawaii wedding advise from your Hawaii wedding planner

Hawaii wedding guest

Pampering Out of Town Guests for you Hawaii wedding

When the bride and groom plan a wedding – they often have out of town guests. One of the biggest challenges can be taking care of so many out of town guests all at once – while still managing the logistics of your wedding. But taking care of your out of town guests is very important. Your family and friends have flown or driven in from different areas to see you get married and they deserve to be treated well.

Try planning a guide to the area for them ahead of time. Most guests will get to the area a day or two ahead of time and leave the day after the wedding. This leaves them with some free time and they might like to find something to do. Giving them some great ideas – or even planning some group activities for out of town guests is an excellent idea. List cultural events or activities in your area from theatre, movies and other activities they might enjoy. Give them the name of local taxis and take out restaurants. Remember to give them those little tips that only locals would know – say if a street name changes midway and someone from out of town would find this confusing.

www.lotustar.com

Hawaii wedding photographer

Get a local hotel to offer your out of town guests a discount to stay at their hotel. This is often easy enough to do. Most hotels are eager to have the business and will offer you a twenty or even thirty percent discount for a group rate. One of the great benefits of this group rate is this means your family and friends will all be together and they can enjoy eating meals together or connecting with each other at the hotel.

Greet your guests at their hotel rooms with a little goodie bag. This is one of the more fun things you can do – and it doesn’t even have to be very expensive or fancy. Give each of your guests or guest families a goodie bag to welcome them to your wedding. This can be themed closely to your wedding. So if you are having a beach wedding, give them sunglasses and sun block. You might also want to give them snacks or activities they can do in their hotel rooms. A map to the local area could be a nice gift.

Ask members of the wedding party to be in charge of welcoming out of town guests. While they may not need to be physically picked up at the airport, dropping by their hotel or even just giving them a call as they’ve arrived is a very nice thing to do. Find out if they need anything or have any questions about the wedding. You may discover that the female guest needs pantyhose or someone else needs some other small errand – and that this friendly call can help to save time, stress and trouble. More info may be found @ wedding theme site

wedding on the beach in Hawaii

Weddings on the Beach: The Latest Trends
Most weddings we see or read about nowadays are being held in one of the mostunconventional places ­ the Beach! We may think that it takes out the formality of having a wedding when set in the beach, but that isn't true at all! Weddings on thebeach are the latest in the trend now. Should you consider your budget, comfort ofyour guests, something romantic and fun, this would be the best choice.
Another good thing to think about is the availability. There's thousands of miles of coastline - so why not? Weddings on the beach appeal to anyone, and who wouldn't?! The cool breeze, soft sand between your toes, and the beautiful sunset, or sunrise, asyou share those precious moments with people who matter to you and your lifetimepartner. more info by Oahu beach weddings and wedding themes

French Weddings

Another interesting way to tie the knot is by having French weddings. It is a practice in most French towns that the groom meets the bride at her home on the wedding day. The bride and the groom walk together to the ceremony with children running along with them throwing white ribbons that the bride cuts while she is walking. They believe that fragrant flowers will cast of evil spirits so the flowers are used for the decorations and bouquet. The couple stands under a silk canopy which is believed to protect them from bad luck. After the wedding ceremony is done, laurel leaves are scattered outside the church. The guest usually brings small cake in the reception and they are piled in the middle of a table. It is a belief that if the bride and the groom get to kiss over the top of the cakes, it will symbolize a long life together.

Filipinos have an interesting wedding culture. It is a belief of the Filipinos that brides should not try to wear the wedding gown before the wedding day. The groom should be the first one to arrive at the wedding ceremony before the bride to avoid bad luck. It is also their practice that siblings should not marry at the same year. Rice confetti is being thrown at the bride and the groom to bring them prosperity.

Different countries have different wedding cultures in which the couple may adapt to when they have their big day. Get to know different countries wedding culture. It will definitely be a unique and memorable wedding. for some into on fairytale theme weddings you may find this wedding theme site helpful

Interesting Wedding Cultures

There are a lot of wedding traditions and customs which vary because of different practices in each country. Couples nowadays are inspired by the beautiful wedding cultures in countries. Some couples who come from different countries would incorporate their own wedding culture and have a very meaningful and traditional wedding.
For example in the Czech Republic wedding traditions is one of the very symbolic wedding customs and traditions. Similar to traditional weddings, Czech weddings also highlights the bride. The wedding reception is very unique since before the festivities start, someone should break a plate. This is not just to signify the start of the wedding reception but to introduce the groom and the bride with a wish of happiness. The bride and the groom also ness to eat soup together using one spoon as if they are forced to eat together. This signifies that they are united and they must stick together through good and bad. The most interesting and fun part of having a Czech wedding is when the friends of the groom kidnap the bride. They will hide the bride and the groom must be able to find her until a specific time given by his friends. If he fails to do that, the groom needs to buy the bride from his friends. This means that the groom needs to protect his wife forever.
Celstial theme wedding more info at wedding theme website

Unique Wedding Photography

Many couples today are searching for unique wedding photo ideas and poses or even graphics in photography. With the competition rising, professional wedding photopgrahers are constantly struggling to top themselves. Brides and grooms are trying everything to capture the best wedding moments from descending into caves to underwater shots. One professonal photographer followed a newlywed couple into the jungles of Mexico, into a hole in the earth, through waist deep water and a flock of bats, just to capture a shot of the happy couple in an underground beam of light.
These extreme efforts produce stunning photographs that capture a couple’s uniqueness while providing surreal effects. Typically, couples who seek to capture these unique photos will wait until a day or two after their original ceremony and prior to their honeymoon. These types of photos stand out against traditional wedding shots and are considered conversation pieces for the future. Once in a lifetime photography compliments once in a lifetime moments very well. The dramatic appearance of wedding apparel against stark and unusual surroundings add to the shock value of both the experience itself, and the product on film.

Couples want their big day captured on film and they desire to have virtually every moment immortalized. Unscripted wedding moments are as important as are the scripted ones and it’s up to the photographer to provide unique choices and unique angles. It’s also up the photographer to capture creative wedding portraits of not only the bride and groom, but the rest of the wedding party and the guests as well. For these reasons alone couples are taking major “dress ruining” risks in order to ensure they get the most unique photos possible.
According to award winning photographers Sol Tamargo and Mattt Adcock, these risky photo sessions are happening more and more. “It’s really getting popular,” says Matt, “Last year we shot 22 TTD (Trash the Dress) sessions, and at this point now we’ve already shot 30 and change, and we’ll still do 8 to 10 more. We’ve had 89 inquiries for the month of July, and at least half of them are interested in TTD.” The popularity of this “dress trashing” concept travels through word of mouth as well as through the growing online forums covering the subject.
Unique photographs for your wedding are only a phone call, or a web search away. If you’re interested in exploring extreme photography for your big day, take some time to do your homework. Consult your present photographer and see ‘how far’ he or she is willing to go to guarantee you get exactly what you want for your wedding album. Remember, extreme unique photography can cost more than the traditonal variety because of the risks posed to both photographer and equipment. But, when it comes to this high-end option – you wil get just what you pay for. Professional and qualified photographers will reserve the right to apply additional fees for services outside their typical comfort zone. So, if you ask your photographer to go rock climbing with you so that he can get a shot of you and your honey on the side of a cliff, be prepared to pay the price. brought to you by Children photography

Hawaiian Wedding Videos

Getting Services of Professional Wedding Video
Weddings are significant events that are treasured. Videos are essential to preserve and have a memory that will last forever. Wedding memories will not easily fade if the couples have their wedding video. The couple may be able to share the special event to their kids in the future using the video. Wedding videography is considered an art and a skill. It is an art simply because it captures emotions and feelings of the couple in the wedding. It is considered as a skill because it needs special training and talent to be able to produce quality wedding videos.

Choosing the right wedding videographer is important in a way that videos that will be made will last a lifetime. It will constantly remind the couple the vows that they made. The video should be able to capture the image that shows love and affection as well as the excitement of celebrating the special day with loved ones, family and friends.

Several tips are provided to assist couple in hiring a good and professional Wedding Video . One of the Video guide is that the couple must look into before selecting a wedding videographer is to check the quality of the work done by them. Ask for a demo video that could be a previous wedding videos that they had done. If you want to know if you are going to talk with a professional videographer, ask them to bring at five sample videos. If they can’t provide it or just look for reasons not to bring it, probably they still have not even taken five wedding videos and could be new in the profession. Portfolios will help customers in knowing the skill of the videographer. more information may be found here ::: Reception videos Preserving Videos

Art of Hawaii wedding photography

Shawn & Aki Hawaii wedding Photo Tour Continued

Photography as an Art and as a Science

People had been asking if photography is considered an art or a science. Based on some studies made, photography is both an art and a science because this is the time that a photographer can create a world-class photo. But both are applied differently as well as the practice is not the same. The technique and the equipments in photography are considered the science part. The skills used in photography, such as the artistic view and goals of the photographer are considered to be on the art aspect. \

A sample of a Wedding Artfull Photography

Shawn & Aki : wedding Hawaii beach Setup Hawaii Wedding Family at our wedding in Hawaii Romantic Oahu Photography Kimono Photo tour :: Blow hole :: Palm Trees

Photography needs a lot of attention that is the reason it is considered a complex art. Photography is also considered an art of wisdom because it requires skills of thinking that is more detailed, artistic and vivid compared to a normal human being. Photography expresses emotions which is basically the concept of art. The way the photographer connects to the subject as well as their unique concept and skill in delivering the images is how they express emotions. When you dig deeper on what photography means, it will tell you the emotions that photographers capture in every photos they take. The beauty of the photograph itself is already an emotion expressed and could be considered as an art. Photos are used to preserve memories, send messages, tell stories, as a source of entertainment and capture special moments. Photography is considered an art primarily because it conveys and talks to the viewers about the subject.

Renew your wedding vows in the Island of Oahu

Not only does Oahu offer a great place for newly wed couples. This magnificent island is also best for those who want to get wed again. Celebrating a decade or decades of being strong and in love is always expressed in great importance through another wedding celebration. And this time, the wedding becomes more meaningful and unforgettable if it is done on the islands of Hawaii. Oahu is one of the best places that you can spend a good vacation and rest together with your close family and friends.
I have always been amazed by couples who get married again with the same person after their long years of being together. They celebrate the milestone that they have reached and the achievements that made during the past years of being together. It is always very admirable to see couples last long despite the increase in the number of annulments and divorce each year. Seeing them sweet and in love with each other even when they are no longer in their younger years is a great achievement.

Paul Agung is the owner of Aloha Island Weddings a Wedding in Hawaii company that helps couples and family's create their travel wedding dream vacation on Hawaiian islands.He also discusses many different types wedding articles related to wedding themes. Based in Hawaii he is an active Kauai wedding coordinator and event planning specialist.

baby shower gifts

Baby Shower Gifts:

Baby Shower Gifts are presented to the expected mother in a baby shower party to honour the arrival of the new born baby in the world. To present baby shower gifts on the baby shower occasion has become more of a tradition and these gifts are cherished by the parents of the baby all through their life.

A thoughtful, creative and innovative gift is usually appreciated on all occasions and baby shower party is not an exception. Gifts reflect a great deal about the emotions of the gift presenter. Unique gift testimonies a special relationship, hence presenting practical items rather than generic gifts are most likely to get appreciation from the expected parents. It shows the care and concern that goes with it. Hawaii Photographer

It is not simple to find a perfect gift for the occasion of baby shower, since myriad cute items are on display in the baby’s section of a store. Indeed, there are numerous unique gifts available in the market and with a little bit of search, innovative gifts can be easily discovered. A gift that is useful to both the child and the mother is perhaps the best baby shower gift.
Baby Shower Gift Ideas:

Baby shower offers great opportunities to people for helping the new parents with the baby essentials. Baby shower party is the best time to pamper for both mother and father. Pregnancy literally drains the mother and she does not even get time for relaxation. Hence, a very thoughtful baby shower gift can include gift for the baby as well as the parents.

Mothers can be gifted with beauty items as such skin care kit, to bring a glow on their face. Besides, manicure and pedicure sets and shower gels or lotions can lift the spirits of tired mom. They are great gift ideas for a baby shower occasion. In essence, anything that can render a young mother an opportunity to enjoy and relax is appreciable.

Few amazing baby shower gift ideas are discussed below:

1 A Customized Blanket: It is very simple to purchase a personalized blanket, buy the one having babies name engraved on it or if the baby shower party is after the birth of the baby, get the photo of the infant imprinted on the blanket. This gift is both unique as well as useful.
2 Piggy Bank: This is fine baby shower gift and can be personalized by engraving the name of baby on it. This is a very useful and thoughtful gift, since it encourages both the child and the parents to save money for the future.
3 Baby bedding item: This is a good option for gifting to the expectant parents. Bedding sets pertaining to cribs, cradles, bassinets and baby beds are available in all colors and sizes spanning from bright colors to pastels.

Soft toys, pillows, teddy bears, dolls, clothing items, photo frames and cute pendants are few other gift items that can be presented on baby showers.

Gift Basket:

A baby shower gift basket can be prepared with several small gifts that can be useful for baby and the parents. Ideally, the gift basket needs to contain practical items in them such as diapers, books, toys, undergarments and baby gloves. The baby shower gift basket needs to incorporate all the things that a mother would require after the birth of the child.

These baskets are sold in the market based on varied themes. Few of them focus on an infant’s bath time requirement. These baskets usually comprise of towels, comb, washcloths, brush sets and many rubber duckies for fun. The baby shower gift baskets are also available on girls theme and boys theme. The basket based on girls theme is normally pink in color and comprises of useful items.

Scrapbooks can also be included in the gift baskets. The mother can note down all the important dates in the scrapbook, such as the infant’s first steps and first words.

The price of each basket varies, as per the items that are included in the basket. Simply, by searching online, these gift baskets can be ordered. These are wondrous gifts and shows, how thoughtful the gift presenter is to compile a unique baby shower gift. by hawaii weddings and Hawaii wedding packages

Home Decore wedding gifts

Home Décor Gifts:

Home Décor Gifts are usually searched by individuals at the time of visiting a housewarming party or a wedding occasion. These two events indeed are the best occasions to gift the friends or associates with Home Décor items.

Home is regarded to be a heaven that is created by man on the earth. Since, by the end of an incredibly hectic day, every individual desires to rest in peace and comfort of a cozy home.

Just a bit of innovation can introduce a whole gamut of changes in a home. Perhaps this is the reason why so many people consider presenting home décor items to an individual as the most excellent gifts for just married couples

Home is conceived to be the best place in the whole world by all. Hence, to make it more sweet, gifting home décor items to the friends is simply the best idea. Home accessories are the best for gifting at any occasion.

Countless home décor gifts are available in the market to complement each type of home. Hence prior to buying any home furnishing gift, it is better to know the likes of the gifted person and also, the type of décor that prevails in the house.

The look dominating in the house will make it even simpler to decide, which gift is fine. A person who loves modern décor needs to be gifted accordingly. Contrarily, if somebody likes to cherish antique or ethnic look, then it is fine to gift antique gift items.

Home Décor Gift Ideas:

People in contemporary times prefer minimalist furniture, which allows them to move freely that is otherwise not possible owing to space constraints. Hence, such people can be endowed with minimalist kind of furniture easily obtainable in markets.

For a new wedlock, furniture items such as sofa set or bed are ideal. If the space of the room is considerably small, it is best to endow them with foldable furniture or piece of furniture that occupies a very less amount of space.

Furniture obtainable for dual intentions such as box arrangement bed, which can be used as a storage space as well as a bed is a good option. Fine quality folding tables that can be folded when not in use and also make good home décor gifts.

Few home décor gift ideas are discussed below:

1. Wall Ornamentations: Instead of pricey paintings, items such as wrought iron adornment or broad sized mirrors are great alternatives that can decorate both the contemporary and traditional room interiors. Sandstone wall ornamentations literally accentuate the contemporary drawing room interiors.
2. Table Accents: Home décor gifts pertaining to table are numerous. In case of dining tables, wicker or bamboo bread trays or metallic fruit basket are excellent gifts offering enormous decorative value. Glass Vases and prop candle holders are great for consoles and coffee tables in drawing room as well as lobbies.
3. Storage Purposes: Home décor gift for storage purposes are wondrous, since most of the people look forward to organize their homes. A shelf that is wall mounted is a good storage accessory. Metallic magazine or newspaper racks and chest drawers are the home décor gifts, which rarely run out of use. Besides, corner racks are the best and cheapest home accessories.

Final Tips: says Paul of Oahu weddings

Hence depending on the space and taste of the individual, home décor gift can be selected. As per the interiors, an individual can gift sofa set made up of varied materials such as cane, wooden, wrought iron and leather. Select the furniture complementing the interior decoration of the rooms. An antique appearing room calls for fine wooden furniture. A modern appearing room can be adorned with leather furniture and a minimalist look can be established with sleek furniture.

Apart from gifting furniture, an individual can also gift upholstery, which plays a vital role in giving the overall appearance of the home. Home décor gifts pertaining to upholstery includes bed sheets, curtains, tablecloth, and sofa covers. These gifts have to be in sync with the color of the walls and furniture.

Diverse forms of light fixtures such as chandelier and lampshades are terrific home décor gifts. Aforementioned are the best home décor gift ideas that an individual can deem over, while taking the decision on home décor gift items. by hawaii wedding coordinator Hawaii weddings

Talking Aloha

Love Aloha, There are also numerous corporations that let their employees dress down on the final working day of the week and this is referred to as Aloha Friday. This is the day when aloha attire could be worn in the offices. Back in 1947, the Aloha Week was created and people recognized that their economy would greatly benefit if their residents would wear more locally-made clothing. The Bank of Hawaii was the first company to ever allow aloha attire for their employees on Fridays. Nowadays, it is uncommon to find a corporation that does not adhere to the tradition of Aloha Friday.

 The Spirit of Aloha has also lent its name to the legendary and colorful shirt in Hawaii, which is called the aloha shirt. This shirt is adorned in an infinite assortment of styles and patterns and is characteristically decorated in bright colors.

 Aloha is more than just another Hawaiian word. It is something that the local folks have deep respect for. It is a deeply ingrained philosophy and is considered as a gift for the beautiful people of the Hawaiian Islands. Brought to you by Aloha Island weddings  Oahu wedding company

Oahu Activities

Love Aloha
Free Things To Do - O‘ahu
Hawaii vacations

You could fill your entire vacation with free things to do on O‘ahu, "The Gathering Place." We recommend trying them all for a well-rounded adventure.

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Arts | Culture & History | Parks & Nature | Recreation

# Back to O'ahu Attractions


A r t s


ART AT THE ZOO FENCE
Local artists hang their works from the zoo fence for the browsing pleasure of residents and visitors alike. Friendly, casual atmosphere, punctuated by the raucous calls of tropical birds (from the zoo).
Where: Honolulu Zoo, outside the zoo fence by the banyan tree, Waikiki
Hours: Every weekend

NORTH SHORE ART GALLERIES
From jewelers, painters and sculptors to glass blowers and candle makers, artists have flocked to the historic surf town of Hale‘iwa over the years and created a bohemian village of galleries among the shell shops and t-shirt shacks. They sometimes ply their trade in public, so look carefully as you cruise through town.
Where: Hale'iwa town (North Shore)

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C u l t u r e & H i s t o r y


CAPITOL DISTRICT
The historic Capitol District of Honolulu includes the State Capitol Building and must-see landmarks such as ‘Iolani Palace, Kamehameha I statue, Kawaiaha‘o Church, St. Andrew's Cathedral, Washington Place, the Hawai‘i State Library, Honolulu Hale, Ali‘iolani Hale, the Old Federal Building and the Mission Houses Museum. To learn more about the history of these places, visit the City's Historical Honolulu site.
Where: South King St., Downtown Honolulu

CHINATOWN
Chinatown offers a rich mix of tradition, culture and history: Meat markets rub elbows with sidewalk vegetable stands; temples bump up against tattoo parlors. Look at the facades of the buildings to see when they were built. A leisurely walk through the district shouldn't take longer than an hour.
Where: Downtown Honolulu, bordered by Nuuanu Avenue, North Beretania and South King streets
More information: www.chinatownhi.com

HAWAI‘I OKINAWA CENTER
This cultural center honors Okinawan pioneers and promotes ethnic culture and history.
Where: 97-587 Ukee St., Waipahu (west of Honolulu on H-1)
Hours: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday
Info: (808) 676-5400

HILTON HULA SHOWS AT SUNSET
Watch these lively shows from the beach or pull up a chair poolside. On Friday nights, enjoy a fireworks show at the Hilton.
Where: Hilton Hawaiian Village Super Pool area, 6:30 p.m. Halekulani's House Without A Key, 6 p.m. Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Poolside, 5:45-9:45 p.m.
Info: Hilton, (808) 949-4321; Halekulani, (808) 923-2311; Sheraton, (808) 922-5811

ISLAND SOAP AND CANDLEWORKS
Swing by and check out Hawai‘i's only soap and candle factory. It's a store, but all the goods are made on site and you can watch while they work.�
Where: Ward Warehouse (1200 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu)
Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday-Saturday; until 5 p.m., Sunday
Info: (808) 591-0533

KAWAIAHA‘O CHURCH
Tour the grounds or hear a Christian service in Hawaiian and English at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday. Built in 1842, Kawaiaha‘o Church is the Westminster Abbey of Hawai‘i, with portraits of Hawaiian monarchs lining the walls (many of them were coronated in the building). The pews in the back, marked by velvet cushions and feather standards (kahili) are still reserved for descendants of royalty.
Where: 957 Punchbowl St., Honolulu (Capitol District)
Hours: 8 a.m.-3 p.m., daily
Info: (808) 522-1333

KING KAMEHAMEHA STATUE
On June 11, King Kamehameha Day, 18-foot leis are draped around the neck and outstretched arms of this bronze likeness of the man who united the Hawaiian Islands, circa 1810.
Where: In front of the Ali‘iolani Hale (State Judiciary Building) at the junction of King and Mililani streets, Honolulu

LION COFFEE TOUR
Take a self-guided tour of the oldest major coffee company in the United States (it moved to Hawai‘i 20 years ago from Toledo, Ohio). Some of the equipment dates back to the 1920s.
Where: 1555 Kalani St., just off Nimitz Highway near the Bishop Museum
Hours: 6 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Friday; 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday
Info: (808) 843-4294

NATIONAL MEMORIAL CEMETERY OF THE PACIFIC (PUNCHBOWL CRATER)
The final resting place for more than 25,000 victims of three American wars: World War II, Korea and Vietnam. On Memorial Day each grave is adorned with a flower lei made by Hawai‘i's school children. Early morning is an especially peaceful time to pay respects.
Where: 2177 Puowaina Dr. (Punchbowl crater, overlooking Honolulu)
Hours: 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m., daily in summer; until 5:30 p.m. in winter
Info: (808) 532-3720

PLEASANT HAWAIIAN HULA SHOW
The Pleasant Hawaiian Hula Show has been shaking its hips since 1937, making it quite possibly the longest-running hula show in Hawai‘i. Audience members are often brought up on stage for impromptu hula lessons, so arrive by 9:15 if you want seats up front.
Where: Waikiki Shell Amphitheater in Kapi‘olani Park, Waikiki
Hours: 10 a.m., Tuesday-Thursday
Info: (808) 627-3300

ROYAL HAWAIIAN BAND
Created in 1836 by King Kamehameha III, this 40-piece band has survived through a monarchy, a provisional government, a republic, a territorial government and statehood to become the only full-time municipal band in the country. Come out and enjoy a living link to Hawai‘i's past.
Where: ‘Iolani Palace (Capitol District, Honolulu) and Kapi‘olani Park
Hours: Noon, Friday, ‘Iolani Palace; 2-4 p.m., Sunday, Kapi‘olani Park
Info: (808) 922-5331

SHERATON MOANA SURFRIDER
The Moana was the first luxury hotel built in Waikiki, circa 1901. Rates were $1.50 per room. Featuring one of the first electric elevators in the Islands and a telephone and bathroom for each room, it was considered one of the most elaborate hotels of its time. It's now on the National Register of Historic Places, and one of its three sections - the Banyan Wing - has been completely restored. Free guided tours of the "first lady of Waikiki" are available.
Where: 2365 Kalakaua Ave., Waikiki
Info: (808) 922-3111

U.S. ARMY MUSEUM
Weaponry, uniforms, photos and other memorabilia housed in a historic shoreline battery. Exhibits cover the martial history of early Hawai‘i through the Vietnam conflict.
Where: Fort DeRussy Military Reservation (next to the Hale Koa Hotel in Waikiki). Validated parking across the street.
Hours: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Tuesday-Sunday
Info: (808) 955-9552

VALLEY OF THE TEMPLES MEMORIAL PARK
A nondenominational cemetery of extraordinary beauty, set against the lush, chiseled Ko‘olau Mountains. Wild peacocks roam the grounds, two acres of ponds hold more than 10,000 koi (carp) and a nine-foot Buddha presides over the valley.
Where: 47-200 Kahekili Highway, Kaneohe (windward side of O‘ahu)�
Hours: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., daily
Info: (808) 239-8811

VOYAGE THROUGH POLYNESIA
A Polynesian review-style performance, sponsored by the Queen Emma Foundation.
Where: Waikiki Town Center, second-floor landing
Hours: 7-8 p.m., Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday
Info: (808) 922-2724

WAIALUA COFFEE VISITORS CENTER
Tour this modern coffee factory; formerly the mill for the famous Waialua Sugar Co.
Where: Kealohanui Street, Waialua (North Shore)
Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily
Info: (808) 637-2411

WAIKIKI HISTORIC TRAIL
The Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association offers a guided walking tour of Waikiki's historic sites along the Waikiki Historic Trail. This walking tour follows a series of informational markers that highlight historic sites between Kapahulu Avenue and the International Market Place, including the estates of Prince Kuhio, Princess Ka'iulani and King David Kalakaua. The tour covers only a portion of the Waikiki Historic Trail, which can be explored in self-guided fashion.
Where: Meet at the beachside surfboard marker titled, "The Beaches of Waikiki," at the entrance to Kapi'olani Park on Kalakaua Ave.
Hours: 9:00-10:30 a.m. Monday thru Friday
Cost: Free
Info: (808) 841-6442

WAIKIKI HULA SHOW
A roving hula show, stopping at Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center (9 p.m.) and King Kalakaua Shopping Plaza, among others.
Where: Along Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki
Hours: 8-10 p.m., Friday

Delightful Maui

Love AlohaFeel the Beat of Delightful Maui Vacation  ,  It is impossible for the island of Maui not to immediately come to one’s mind when considering a Hawaiian vacation. Maui, like all the islands of Hawaii, features immaculate rainforests, fabulous multicolored beaches, stunning waterfalls and a dazzling underwater world. This island was named after a playful demigod who has phenomenal strength and artistic power. Tourists who are after a terrific adventure would definitely find it in Maui, which is also recognized as “The Valley Isle” and the second biggest among the Hawaiian Islands.

 

Travelers would get a kick out of the Kaihalulu, translated as the Roaring Sea but popularly known as the Red Sand Beach. Its sands are literally red because the beach itself is situated in a volcanic ember cone. The coarse and vibrant sand was actually brought about by the erosion of the red volcanic ashes. Tourists would appreciate the area’s picturesque view: its vivid red sand alongside the aquamarine waters, clear blue skies and cotton-candy clouds. This exotic spot is excellent for people who love swimming and snorkeling.

 

One of Maui’s famous tourist destinations is the Leleiwi Lookout. However, this lookout’s chief attraction is not the panoramic landscape it provides. Leleiwi Lookout actually offers a mysterious phenomenon, which only happens in two other countries namely Germany and Scotland. Once the clouds are really low and when the sun is in the right area behind you (normally during sunset), you would be able to view your own shadow’s reflection! Incredible, is it not? That optical illusion is actually called the Specter of the Brocken, which occurs when there is a perfect combination of shadow, mist and the sun. There are people who compared their experience to seeing their own souls.

 

The Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area is a site in Maui that offers lodging and camping facilities for their guests. Tourists would be able to delight in a mountain hiking with magnificent sights as well as pig and bird hunting. Travelers would do well to take a camera with them for there are pristine forests and numerous trails in the area. Families would be able to take a rest and eat here because there is also an access to a picnic site. It is advised that people should wear multilayered clothing as well as hats and gloves when camping and hiking since the temperature in this place is normally 200 cooler than the coastal regions. 

 

Tourists should not leave Maui without visiting the Venus Pool. It is also known as the Waikoa Pond and is located in the southeastern part of Maui. This swimming pool was naturally formed in an astoundingly lovely setting beside the ocean. The Venus Pool, situated between the Oheo and Gulch Pools, is actually among a chain of pools and waterfalls. Local teachings reveal that back in ancient Hawaii, it was only the royalty who were allowed to make use of this beautiful place. Its freshwater bathing area is the ideal site to spend a quiet day. People can bask in the sun on the huge, flat rocks and treat themselves in the mild, tranquil water.

 

Maui is definitely a pleasurable and fun island for your  Hawaii vacation. It has opulent resorts, colorful sand beaches, freshwater pools and iridescent waterfalls. Surely, there is no other island in the planet that can provide the type of experience that only the island of Maui has to give. Tourists, without a doubt, would enjoy their vacation at this unforgettable piece of paradise called Maui.

Hawaii Civil Ceremony

Licensed venues

There are many venues in the Hawaii for weddings such as hotels, halls, stately homes, restaurants and even football clubs that have been granted licences to hold civil weddings, although some may only allow you to get married there if you will hold your reception there as well. As soon as you have selected your venue you will need to contact the Registration Officers who need to be present for the ceremony. Don't leave this too late as they can get very booked up. In Oahu on honolulu the office opens at 800 am and closes at 4:00pm, it can take from to minuets to 30 minuets depending on the day and time you arrive there

The Ceremony

The marriage ceremony usually takes about 20 minutes. Led by the registrar the bride and groom 'solemnly declare' that there is no reason why they cannot lawfully marry and they call upon those present to witness the marriage. The couple sign the register in the presence of two witnesses before departing for the reception.

If you wish to have music or readings during the ceremony you need to remember that they must be of a non-religious nature. You may be asked by the registrar to provide a list of the items that you have selected so that they can be approved.

What to wear

There are no formal dress codes for civil ceremonies, although the bride and groom usually wear something casual. The bride might choose a long or short dress, with or without a hat, and the groom usually wears a suit with a buttonhole. Themed weddings are becoming more popular, so the couple (and their guests) could wear medieval costumes, or anything else that their imagination allows.

Love Always

At a wedding Who pays for what?

Who pays for what?

Nowadays, it is not unusual for a wedding couple to organise and pay for their own wedding, although traditionally the bride's parents would finance the big day with the groom paying for some things as well. It is also quite common now for the groom's parents to contribute to the cost of the wedding.

The bride's parents traditionally pay for:

• Announcements in the press
• Dresses for the bride and her attendants
• Flowers for the church and reception
• Most of the transport
• Photography and Video
• The Reception (including toastmaster and entertainment)
• The Cake
• Wedding stationery

The groom traditionally pays for:

• Engagement and wedding rings
• Church fees (minister's fees, licence, organist, choir, bell ringers) or the registrar's fee and civil licence
• Hire or cost of his own clothes
• Bouquets for the bride and her attendants
• Flower sprays for both mothers, and buttonholes for himself, the best man and ushers
• Transport to the ceremony for himself and the best man
• Transport from the ceremony for himself and his bride
• Presents for the attendants, the best man and ushers
• The honeymoon
• 

Wedding insurance

As organizing a wedding involves such a great deal of effort and expenditure it is a good idea to consider taking out an insurance policy. There are companies which offer special packages that provide cover against such things as:

• Damage to or loss of the wedding dress and rings
• Cancellation and loss of deposits
• Failure of suppliers to honour contracts
• Theft of presents

Obtain several quotes and be sure to read the conditions of the policies carefully so that you are absolutely clear about what each company is offering and what conditions, if any, apply.

Hawaiian flowers the Anthuriums are a wide varying

Our Beautiful model of the day is Dewi from Hawaii who is wearing a haku lei mage by Kauai florist @ www.flowerhawaii.com
our Hawaiian flower for today is the
Anthurium

Anthuriums are a wide varying species of plant. Currently there are almost a thousand known species of anthurium, however, it's been speculated that several new species are found every year. Anthuriums exist in many tropical climates, and are especially popular in Hawaii. However, of the few places where anthuriums are not cultivated, Asia is the main area where

anthuriums have barely been introduced. Neither do the plants grow well there. One of the most popular anthuriums is the Flamingo Lily. It consists of usually a bright pink spathe, which is sometimes considered to be a flower, though it is actually more of a leaf, and then a large protruding spadix. The spadix can be one or more of any multitude of colours. The combination is particularly beautiful, and resembles a flamingo's bright plumage. The several different species of anthurium that produce blooms or brightly coloured spathes, are usually bred into hybrid species, to make a more colourful variety. The blooming anthuriums are popular as interior decorating and house plants, because of their vivid colours and preferred growth in shade. The hybrid blooms are also popular in bouquets, and tropical floral arrangements. The anthurium is also know as the Painted Tongue, or Tail Flower. The name "Tail Flower" comes from the Greek word; anthurium literally means "tail flower".

more info on Growing Anthuriums please go here

Hawaii has a new Movie made on the islands

You have all heard of the New Indiana Jones
The best of the three Elvis Presley flicks filmed here has The King cruising Oahu pineapple fields, and singing Ke Kali Nei Au (The Hawaiian Wedding Song) , this article by Hawaii Magazine looks into all the movies that have been filmed on the island of Oahu from 50 first dates to Jurassic park.
1. From Here To Eternity (1953). I work just a half-hour’s drive away from the beach where Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr famously rolled in the surf and turf. Much of the rest of the movie was filmed on location at Schofield Barracks in Wahiawa, Oahu.

2. Jurassic Park (1992). It's still cool watching Tyrannosaurus Rex chase a herd of Gallimus dinosaurs and a bunch of pesky humans against the backdrop of dramatic Oahu and Kauai mountain ranges.

3. Blue Hawaii (1961). The best of the three Elvis Presley flicks filmed here has The King cruising Oahu pineapple fields, and singing Ke Kali Nei Au (The Hawaiian Wedding Song) at Kauai’s now shuttered Coco Palms Resort.

4. Punch-Drunk Love (2001). The Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Waikiki has never looked so gorgeous, elegantly old-fashioned and other-worldly all at the same time as in this eccentric romantic comedy.

5. South Pacific (1958). Kauai calls to us yet again. Nellie Forbush (Mitzi Gaynor) sings “I’m In Love with a Wonderful Guy” on Lumahai Beach; Bloody Mary (Juanita Hall) warbles “Bali Hai” at Hanalei Bay.

6. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981). The first and still best opening sequence of all the Indy flicks has the uber archeologist barely escaping Peruvian natives on foot and by seaplane through the rainforests of