faqs

Do we need a permit to have a beach wedding in Hawaii?

Yes! All beach and park weddings in Hawaii need a photography permit. Honolulu Wedding Group has an account with the State of Hawaii and we are verified to purchase permits for your wedding. As part of our packages we obtain the permit for you. We do charge a fee for the permit. You will see the fee listed on your final invoice.
Is HWG insured and do we have liability coverage for beach weddings?
Are your wedding officiants licensed to perform weddings in Hawaii?
Can we have our own wedding officiant? Like a family member or friend?

We have many weddings where the couple would like a friend or family member to officiate the wedding. Unless your friend or family member is licensed with the state of Hawaii, they cannot file the marriage license after the wedding. In this case, it’s ok to have two wedding officiants. The two officiants can work together to figure out who will take care of each part of the ceremony. Usually, our officiant will take care of the Hawaiian elements of your ceremony and your officiant can perform the vows, ring exchange, prayers, and the kiss.

Since our officiant will be present at your ceremony, our officiant can take care of the marriage license filing after the ceremony is finished.
What do we do if it rains on our wedding day?

We are on a tropical island, and it does rain here quite often. However, most of the rain is usually just a passing shower and doesn’t last more than a few minutes. Usually, we wait a few minutes, and the rain should pass. Scheduled weddings will happen rain or shine. If it’s a rainy day, there’s usually windows of opportunity where we can perform the ceremony when the rain stops. However, in the event of a storm or hurricane we will be able to tell in advance how bad the weather might be. On the day of your wedding, we will decide whether it would be a good idea to reschedule for the next day.
When is the rainy season in Hawaii?
When is the best time of the year to get married in Hawaii?
What’s the best time of day to get married?

It really depends on which beach you select. Some beaches are better in the morning. Some beaches are better mid to late afternoon. A good general rule to follow is trying to have your ceremony either in the morning between sunrise and 10:30 AM or in the afternoon between 2:00 PM until sunset. Just try to avoid the middle of the day. It can be very hot in the middle of the day, and the lighting is not ideal for photography/videography.
How long does it take to get our photos and videos?

We try to send the photos out between 2–4 weeks. The photos are usually finished between 2–3 weeks but sometimes we need an extra week if we are having a busy month.

The video takes approximately 4–6 weeks. If you ordered the highlight video, you will need to choose a song. Once a song has been chosen, the video takes be between 4–6 weeks. It’s usually finished around 4–5 weeks but if we are having a busy month, it might be closer to the 6-week timeframe.
How many people can I have at a beach wedding?
How long does the ceremony last?
How does the photography work?
How does the videography work?

Before the ceremony starts, the Videographer will put a wireless microphone on the groom. If you ordered the “ceremony only video” the videographer will cover your full ceremony and leave after the ceremony is finished.

If you ordered our “highlight video package” the videographer will stay after your ceremony to capture group shots, and more shots of just the couple throughout the park and on the beach. You will need to choose one song for the highlight video. After a song is chosen, your video should be finished in about 4–6 weeks. Final videos will be emailed to you with a download link.
Can we play music on the beach, or do you recommend a musician?
Can we have a Hawaiian blessing and include some traditional Hawaiian elements in our ceremony?
Can we have personalized vows during our ceremony?
Do you offer elopement packages, and vow renewal ceremonies?
What is your cancellation policy?

We require your full invoice to be paid no later than 30 days before your ceremony date. If you cancel your beach wedding package within 30–15 days before the ceremony, you will receive a 50% refund. 14–0 days before the date of your beach wedding package, no refund will be issued. For private wedding venue packages, there is no refund within 30 days of your wedding date. Failure to pay your invoice balance 30 days before the ceremony date can result in cancellation of your reservation with no refund. However, we do not want it to come to this. If you are having trouble making payments, please let us know.
Is gratuity included in your price?

Honolulu Wedding Group - Hawaii Wedding Planner