Hawaiian Island Elopement in Kapalua, Maui | Deanna & JD

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The wedding was planned. They had a date, a venue, a coordinator… it was all accounted for. After a few obstacles, however, Deanna and JD began to rethink their plans, asking themselves the million dollar question: What do we really want? Three months later, they were on a plane bound for Maui, HI.

The couple opted for a relaxing getaway in lieu of a large wedding, an experience that was full of spur-of-the-moment decisions that kept the day true to themselves. Deanna purchased earrings at the airport and her floral accessories came from a local market, chosen only an hour before the ceremony. The day came together effortlessly, perfectly reflecting the couple’s vision. “The entire day felt like a fairytale,” says photographer Reagan Hembree. “Their full hearts and laid-back personalities were so evident throughout the entire trip. They woke up on their wedding day and still had no idea where they were going to have the ceremony. When asked about a time schedule the answer was always, ‘Oh whenever, we have the whole day!’”

Deanna and JD were wed at Ironwoods Beach, overlooking Maui’s sparkling blue waters. Pastor Kris Miyake conducted a beautiful ceremony as his daughter strummed the ukulele, providing soothing melodies against the sounds of the sea. “…my favorite part was when the couple started slow dancing after they kissed,” Reagan shares. “It was completely unplanned. They did a traditional lei exchange, said ‘I do’, kissed, and immediately fell into each other’s arms and began to dance. The moment was priceless!” Reagan focused on capturing moments that made the day special and unique to the couple. She documented the quick glances, quiet exchanges, and sweet gestures that might otherwise have gone unnoticed.

“The photos documenting the wedding are important, but there’s nothing like getting lost in a photo that brings you back to it’s moment,” she says. “Weddings really don’t have to be a lot of work or super stressful. Deanna and JD were able to make their dream come true with a little bit of faith and a whole lot of love. Sometimes it’s better to just get away and marry the person you love!”

Photography by Reagan Aleea Photography

If Hawaii is the top of your list of places to elope, why not start your planning with the resources in our Hawaii Elopement Packages!