Planning a wedding poses countless challenges, and doing it from half a world away only adds to the stress. When you walk down the aisle—or up the beach—at your dream destination wedding, though, all the work that went into planning it will be well worth it. And, if you choose the right venue and coordinator, you can eliminate much of the stress from the start. Below, the friendly event coordinators at Manoa Grand Ballroom in Honolulu have shared a few tips for planning your Hawaiian wedding.

How to Get Hitched Without a Hitch at the Perfect Venue in Hawaii

1. Apply for Your Marriage License Online to Save Time

Although you can apply for your marriage license online, you must appear in person to obtain it before the ceremony. Fortunately, there is no waiting period in the state of Hawaii, which means you can get married as soon as you complete all the necessary paperwork. The license is valid for 30 days; you will probably be incredibly busy once you arrive on the island, but give yourself plenty of time to obtain the marriage license before the actual wedding.  

2. Find a Coordinator You Trust

Your wedding venue will likely provide a coordinator to assist with the catering, as well as the itinerary for the big day, but it is up to you to book all the outside vendors, which might include a photographer, a florist, a photo booth operator, a DJ, and an officiant. Since finding the right vendors can be challenging from thousands of miles away, it is best to include a coordinator in your budget. Find someone local who understands your vision for the big day.

3. Consider Adding Local Touches to the Ceremony or Reception

Most couples include a lei exchange in their Hawaiian wedding, but there are other local touches that you can add to give guests a truly memorable experience. For example, you can talk to the catering director about putting a few Hawaiian dishes on the menu, or you can ask the DJ to play the Hawaiian Wedding Song at some point during the evening.

If you’re looking for the perfect venue for your destination wedding, check out Manoa Grand Ballroom in Honolulu. Visit their website to learn more about the banquet halls they have for hosting big events. You can start planning your dream wedding today by calling (808) 946-6758.