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?

Yes, we have liability coverage for beach weddings. The state of Hawaii requires us to carry liability insurance in order to purchase photography permits for your wedding. If you are looking for vendors in Hawaii, make sure they can obtain the proper permits for beach weddings.
Are your wedding officiants licensed to perform weddings in Hawaii?

Yes, all our wedding officiants are licensed to perform weddings in the state of Hawaii. They must be licensed with the state of Hawaii to file your marriage license after your wedding ceremony is finished. If the officiant is not licensed, the officiant cannot file the marriage license when the wedding is finished.
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?

Our rainy season typically runs November through March. However, the weather is very unpredictable. Even during our rainy season, the weather can be perfect! During our summer season, you might get a little bit of rain. It’s best not to worry about the weather and try to enjoy whatever is given to us that day. Fingers crossed!
When is the best time of the year to get married in Hawaii?

Anytime is a good time to get married in Hawaii!

The best time to come is whenever it’s convenient for you and your guests. Don’t worry too much about trying to predict the weather. Your chances for less rain are a little better if you come to Hawaii May through November. The busiest time for tourism in Hawaii is during summer break, spring break, and winter break.
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?

The photography starts when your ceremony starts. Photography covers the wedding ceremony including group shots after the ceremony is finished. After the group shots are finished, the photographer will take you through the park and on the beach for more photos. The final photos will be emailed to you between 2–4 weeks.
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?

Yes, you can! Before your ceremony starts, your officiant will ask if you have anything personal to say to each other. During the ceremony, the officiant will give you time to share a personal message as part of your Hawaiian wedding ceremony.

If you don’t have anything prepared, it’s not a problem. Your officiant will guide you through the whole 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?

Gratuity is not included. If you had a great experience, feel free to tip each member of your wedding team before they leave on your wedding day. After the wedding is finished each of our team members still have work to do. The officiant must file your license. Photos and videos must be edited. This is the service industry and tips are greatly appreciated but not required.

Honolulu Wedding Group - Hawaii Wedding Planner