Written by your faithful planner, Carly Wilson

Photos by L’Amour Photography

The city of San Francisco holds special meaning for Sheryl and Kyle, as it is one of the first places they ever traveled to as a couple. Years after their first visit together, they returned to celebrate the holidays. They set out for a scenic drive over the Golden Gate Bridge, but the rainy and foggy sky obscured any view. Though Sheryl suggested they turn back, Kyle instead pulled over at one of the scenic lookout spots. When Sheryl asked why they were stopping, he responded by pulling out a ring and asking her to marry him.  “The exact word out of my mouth was ‘Okay!’” Sheryl remembers. “I was completely in shock and very happy!”

Once back home on Oahu, the couple began planning their wedding. The prestigious Royal Hawaiian Hotel has a long history of luxury. Hawaii’s first monarch, King Kamehameha, often relaxed there with his royal court. In current times, the pale pink building, designed in Spanish-Moorish style, is an integral and instantly recognizable landmark of the Waikiki Beach silhouette. The “elegant, old-world beauty” of the hotel drew their attention, Sheryl recalls, and also “its pink color!”

To acknowledge the hue of the resort, the couple incorporated various shades of pink throughout their day.  And with a little help from Manolo Blahnik, they started using the color from the ground up – literally!

Artist Alison Hayashi of Kiss and Makeup was in charge of styling the ladies. She curled Sheryl’s dark hair and then swept the locks into a low, elegant chignon. Creamy phalaenopsis added a fresh, youthful spin.

For a sentimental touch, the bride accessorized with “something borrowed” in the form of a rare pearl necklace belonging to her mother.

As she prepared to dress, Sheryl read the heartfelt sentiments that her soon-to-be husband had prepared for her. No doubt it will be the start of many love letters to come.

Pronovias, a Barcelona-based brand coveted for its exquisite designs and fabrics, was Sheryl’s choice in bridal gown designer. The top of the style was beautiful simplicity with a slim-cut silhouette and a romantic sweetheart neckline. This led the way to the long train, which flared out in a display of hand-sewn and delicately crafted lace. Her veil, the crowning touch, elicited pure drama as it cascaded down in gauzy, lacey folds.

At the Royal Hawaiian Coconut Grove, guests awaited the bride’s entrance as they enjoyed the harmonious playing of the Flute a la Harpe duo.

The couple included a thoughtful touch to keep the attendees cool in the sunny afternoon, complete with a whimsical label by Something Blue stationery.

Though every detail of the ceremony décor had been carefully planned, the littlest members of the entourage still managed to steal the show:

The bride glowed with happiness as she stood at the altar with Kyle. Hearing her describe their relationship, we understand why: “Kyle loves me for me,” she explains. And on top of that, “he is the perfect gentleman.” In the picture below, you can almost hear her joyful laughter:

The couple’s wedding cake was specially designed by cakelava, a locally-owned cake company that has gained an international following thanks to coverage by the Food Network and TLC. A fondant construction of intricate of lace, inspired by the bride’s gown, trailed down the side of the three-tiered creation. In fact, the cake design had been kept secret from the groom so as not to give away the look and pattern of the lace! A boldly fuchsia flower, handcrafted, made a saucy addition to the dessert. And importantly for the guests, the taste lived up to its mouthwatering name: Rainbowlicious.

REA Events and Designs provided specialty linen for the event. Ivory satin chair covers gave the ballroom a classic bridal feel, while the berry undertones in the satin napkins added a colorful spin.

Table cards designed by Something Blue incorporated a peachy-rose flourish that made it fun for guests to check their seat assignments.

Designer Jae Yoo of Honolulu-based My Florist created the centerpieces of vividly-hued roses accented by white blooms and greens. A porcelain bowl showcased the arrangement and didn’t compete with its beautiful colors.

The program, emceed by famed comedian Greg Hammer, combined both sentiment and humor. Then came the time for the big reveal. Kyle had secretly worked with Mona and me and the videographers to arrange a special surprise for his new bride: a Same-Day Edit filmed by Kai Media’s acclaimed cinematography team. The final piece showed a video montage of the most precious getting ready and ceremony moments, set to an emotional ballad. I have to admit that watching Kyle’s touching introduction brought tears to my eyes!

The sweet mood continued as guests took home their favors: Gift cards to Shimazu Store, the couple’s favorite place for shave ice. As an added treat, Kelvin Shimazu himself prepared his popular shave ice on-site for the couple and their guests.

And the bride’s favorite memory of the evening? Being introduced as “Mr. and Mrs.” for the first time. But although they have grown-up titles now, that doesn’t change their playful spirit. “Sheryl accepts me for the kid that I am at heart,” Kyle says. And throughout all life has to offer, “she is a strong shoulder I know I can lean on.”

Congratulations, Sheryl and Kyle!

 

 

 

“Shirley wanted something elegant and classy with a whimsical touch,” the groom explains, and Sue-V florist didn’t disappoint. Two different heights of vases containing similar designs mixed up the look while still keeping the effect visually consistent.  The arrangements featured an unexpected play of opposites, blending classic roses with the playful butterfly orchids. White hydrangeas added a neutral base that enhanced the saturated colors of the blooms.

An ivory draping with sparkling paillettes brought shine to the head table. Uplights and a silk charmeuse backdrop from Les Saisons’ sister design company, Vignette, contributed a luxe appeal. Hanging overhead, a custom-designed piece comprised of delicate glass spheres caught the shimmering candlelight beautifully to create a magical effect.

Gregg  Hammer, a famous radio personality and professional emcee, kept the evening lively. “He made everyone let loose and laugh,” Gerold recalls. Jon Basebase, a Hawaii-based singer, songwriter and guitarist who has earned numerous accolades, also entertained during dinner.

The bridesmaids were also dressed to be noticed. The shimmering azure hue of their gowns was reminiscent of the ocean on a sunny Hawaiian afternoon. The lustrous fabric and long length created a formal and glamorous look. To keep the mood light, brightly-hued orchids in their tresses and bouquets supplied a fun surprise of color. Properly attired, the ladies set out for a fun-filled photo shoot on the grounds of the Hilton Hawaiian Village.

Inside the Ocean Crystal Chapel, where the ceremony was held, classy signs welcomed the VIPs to their seats.

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The chapel’s interior has a mood of airy lightness.

Donned in softly shimmering fabric which was exquisitely draped and folded across her frame, Ashlyn exemplified the very picture of beauty. Her father, sporting both a classic maile and punchy orchid lei, proudly escorted her to her new groom.

After the ceremony, Hawaii’s newest husband and wife stole away for a dramatic sunset rendezvous.

Meanwhile, guests took their seats in the Hilton’s Coral Ballroom. White satin chair covers from REA Events added an elegant and modern touch. The centerpieces, designed by Aaron’s sister, consisted of slender branches strung with sparkling crystals whose faceted sides brilliantly captured the candlelight.

Although the dinner buffet was sumptuous, everyone’s favorite part was the dessert. A glass stand from Les Saisons set off the cake to its full advantage. Decked out with sparkling ribbon, a pearldot design, vibrant cascading orchids, and a custom monogrammed topper, the confection made a stylish statement. Equally pleasing was the lemon and lilikoi filling, a zingy combination of tart and sweet flavors that kept guests coming back for more.

While they indulged, the couple’s friends and family also enjoyed an exciting program filled with surprises that included trivia games, “Name that Tune,” and prize giveaways. The Hilton’s tempting display of sweets was also a highlight.

After dinner, a hidden panel opened to surprise guests with a chic lounge area, designed by Naomi Lee of Vignette. Sofas and modular benches upholstered in all white, along with white cube tables, provided an unmistakably modern effect. The white dance floor from Catering Connection also held contemporary appeal. The charmeuse backdrop and candlelight made the area inviting, while accent pillows and uplighting in alluring shades of deep blue and violet added special custom touches.

Already blown away by the transformation of the space, the guests were then treated to the newlywed’s first dance. The golden monogram, provided by Showtime DJs, also enhanced the mood. Ashlyn surprised her guests and new husband by performing a Samoan dance called a “taualuga”. The sacred movements, which require elegance and subtle grace, have long been used in Polynesian culture as a grand finale to celebrate the completion of a milestone event, such as a wedding. With all eyes focused on her, Ashlyn remained poised through each intricate step, demonstrating her dedication to the art. The many hours she had spent secretly practicing clearly paid off, her success evidenced by both her proud smile and the admiration in Aaron’s eyes at the conclusion of her performance.

To finish the night on a high note, Teley Brandon of Showtime DJs began the open dancing with energetic rock tunes. The glowstick favors he provided to each guest added colorful bursts of lighting to the dance floor, increasing the celebratory mood!

From the bling on the bridal gown, the bouquets, and décor, this was an event filled with sparkle and light. But what shone brightest of all was the bride’s radiant smile, which reflected all the joy of the day.