Brittney & Harry’s Intimate Tropical Garden Wedding at Hale Koa Estate on Oahu

May 31

In April, I had the incredible opportunity to travel back to Oahu, Hawaii to capture one of the most heartfelt weddings I've ever witnessed. Brittney and Harry met in Nebraska, currently live in Colorado, and have traveled to Hawaii so frequently that they decided to say “I do,” there, too. Set in the intimate backyard garden of the Hale Koa Estate, surrounded by lush palm trees and vibrant floral arrangements, this destination wedding was filled with love, joy, and unforgettable moments shared with close family and friends.

The day started with Brittney and Harry getting ready in separate spaces within Hale Koa. Brittney’s makeup by Bliss Beauty Hawaii was perfection, and when I entered her room, I immediately noticed the stunning soaker bathtub and knew it was the perfect place to take photos of her getting into her dress with her best girls. Her blush pink gown from Blue Bridal had intricate geometric bead and lace work, and looked incredible hanging in this space.

Brittney and Harry’s first look took place in the ceremony space, surrounded by lush tropical florals designed by Lulu's Lei and Bouquets. First looks are always one of my favorite moments to capture, because they allow couples to have a private moment to themselves, and they got to spend the rest of the day together too, instead of tip-toeing around to avoid each other. Brittney and Harry's love and excitement was obvious as they laid eyes on each other for the first time.

Throughout the ceremony, I was hiding behind my camera dropping tears because Harry’s vows hit me in ALL THE FEELS. He told Brittney how each day spent with her had been the best day of his life. From the small, simple moments like making hot dogs and mac and cheese for her when they had no money, to the grand gesture of proposing in New York City, right up until today, the wedding day in one of their favorite places in the world. They also held a special lei ceremony for each of their moms which brought happy tears to everyone’s eyes. The pink and white traditional leis by Lulu's Lei and Bouquets looked so beautiful around their shoulders.

After Brittney and Harry said “I do” and hugged all their friends at the end of the aisle, we stole some alone time and took some poolside newlywed portraits. Guests enjoyed passed appetizers and tropical cocktails before the reception began, and when we walked into the reception space, I couldn’t believe the attention to detail in the decorations that adorned every table – Brittney actually DIY’ed all of the decor and her centerpieces and table settings had the most perfect Hawaiian vibes. Dinner consisted of mouth-watering traditional Hawaiian dishes like pulled pork and purple potatoes, and for dessert, the most delicious cake! The night wouldn’t have been complete without dancing under twinkly lights, and they even had a surprise photo bus for guests to enjoy throughout the evening.

To say this unforgettable day at Hale Koa Estate was one of my favorite wedding days is an understatement, and if I could live it all over again, I would in a heartbeat! Whether I'm on the West Coast, in Hawaii, or back in the Midwest where I grew up, my goal is to capture the real and fleeting moments that you can hold close forever. Go take a peek at one of my most favorite destination wedding days!