We certainly love this wedding’s playful vibe with all the robin blue (aka Tiffany blue) accents, Hello Kitty details, and the fun candy bar. What’s more amazing is that the cathedral where they had their ceremonies, looked like it had a hint of blue walls too! And even though we usually just associate Tiffany blue with luxury, pairing this color with the beautiful beach setting of Hawaii made everything look not only elegant but vibrant and refreshing as well. And lastly, I must tell you that the bride’s bouquet was just a bundle of beauty and personality. I feel like it somehow captured what our bride was like, beautiful and full of sentimental and fun aura.
Congratulations Tim & Courtney! And ladies, it is said that Tiffany blue can sometimes make women giddy and excited, so enjoy this feature while their photographer tells us how our couple made such a fine event.
What is the couple’s love story?
Courtney and Tim are one of the most fun, genuine couples I’ve ever photographed. Every moment when they were together, it was real. The emotion was palpable. They really do love each other. They met through a mutual friend in 2008. He loves motorcycles, she loves crafting and graphic design, and they’re both big foodies and love their Filipino heritage. Tim popped the question on the beach at sunset during a romantic getaway to Morro Bay, CA in 2012. Courtney absolutely loves Hawaiian culture and traditions, and used to do Hula dancing, so Oahu seemed like the perfect place to tie the knot.
Tell us something about the wedding.
Before heading to the church, Courtney and Tim had a two-part faux first look. For the first part, they stood on either sides of a pillar while Tim read a card from Courtney. For the second part, Tim was blindfolded with a fun aviator eye mask while Courtney said a prayer and they shared a moment holding hands. The prayer was emotional; Courtney struggled through tears to thank God for the beautiful day that was to come and to tell Tim how much she loved him.
The ceremony was held in the oldest cathedral in continuous use in the United States: Cathedral of Our Lady Peace in Downtown Honolulu. Unique from other catholic churches, the guests sat facing each other rather than the front. It was perfect for this intimate affair. After the ceremony, the guests created a celebratory receiving line outside. They were given wands that had ribbons attached to bells at the end, so they could wave them as the bride and groom came through the doors.
Courtney decided on mainly neutral colors, and Tiffany blue as the main accent color for the wedding. Her beautiful shoes were the ultimate pop! Her bouquet was handmade from brooches received at her bridal shower. On one side of the bouquet, she pinned her grandmother’s wedding ring. On the other side, she mounted a gopro camera! Talk about something old and something new!
There was a four hour break in between the ceremony and reception so that guests could rest, change, and travel to North Shore for the party. Guests arrived to Tiki Moon Villas to see two beautiful long tables adorned with classy tropical touches and crafts, made by Courtney. A local Hawaiian cover band played familiar songs in the background. The guests were introduced to their “baggage claim” style escort cards, a full candy bar, a shave ice vendor, and local pupus (Hawaiian for appetizers).
My favorite detail was the passport invites: Courtney designed them herself to mimic a passport, and the RSVP cards were shaped like luggage tags! After the grand entrance and first dance, everyone was seated for a family style dinner presented by Chef Kimo Kalauli. The several dishes included Lihung Mui (dried plum) pineapple, Filipino pancit, and grilled steak. After dinner, guests danced the night away, and Courtney surprised Tim with a special Hula dance.
What inspired the wedding day outfits?
Culture inspired the mens’ outfits. They all wore traditional Filipino barongs. The color of the day: Tiffany blue, inspired the ladies dresses.
What was your favorite part of the day?
The “faux” first look was a truly intimate moment. They read cards from each other tearfully while Tim was blindfolded.
Was there any Do it Yourself (DIY) projects? If so, can you describe them in detail?
Courtney is very crafty and did almost all of the details herself!
What were the highlights from the ceremony & reception?
The ceremony was beautiful. The receiving line afterward was special and fun! At the end of the reception, Courtney surprised Tim with a hula dance she had been practicing. It was a really special moment!
Was there a theme for the ceremony and reception?
The “destination wedding” theme appeared in several places, including the invitations and seat assignment cards.
Vendors
Photographer: Whittaker Portraits
Linens and Coverings: Accel Party Rentals
Cake Designer: Agnes Portuguese Bake Shop
Cake Designer: cakeworks
Hair Stylist: Cherie Floyd
Bridesmaid Dresses: Coralie Beatrix
Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal
Caterer: Kimo Kalauli
Reception Venue: Tiki Moon Villas
Dress Store: Gesinee’s Bridal