Sara & Burke :: Oahu, Hawaii {Real Wedding}

We just adore Sara & Burke’s Oahu wedding photographed by Joseph Esser! Eight years ago during the summer these two friends were lounging poolside at the Halekulani Hotel, waiting for a table to open up at the hotel’s popular open-air restaurant, The House Without a Key, when they made what they thought was a silly little promise. “Okay, if neither of us is married in 10 years, let’s get hitched,” said Burke. Sara agreed. It was the night before she was to move back to Texas.

A few months later, the distance made them realize how much they loved each other and they’ve been together ever since. Because of their promise, The Halekulani Hotel was the only venue this couple considered. Turquoise and chocolate decor and lighting were picked by the bride because she wanted to “keep it modern, fresh, and clean.” Ferns were woven into the flower arrangements on the arbor to represent the groom’s family business, and local orchids and gardenias floating in bowls of water were placed throughout the cocktail terrace and reception room in memory of his mother (gardenias were her favorite flower). The bride’s little brother was unable to obtain leave from the Air Force and was skyped in so that he could watch the ceremony. Later, while the couple was taking pictures on Waikiki beach and the guests were enjoying cocktails and hors d’oeuvrs as the sun set, the computer was passed around and he was able to say hello to everyone.

The reception featured a five course meal that focused on locally grown foods and the North Shore yellow corn bisque with soft shell crab was a favorite with everybody. The tables were named after the various Hawaiian islands and paper fans were given to each guest before the ceremony to keep them cool as the sun set. How romantic! Congratulation to Sara & Burke!

Island: Oahu

Photography: Joseph Esser

Venue: The Halekulani Hotel

Catering and Cake: The Halekulani Hotel

Ceremony Music: Members of the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra

Reception Music: Bruce Hamada and Jim Howard

Flowers and Decor: Designs by Hemmingway

Hair and Makeup: Heather Bell

Dress: Winnie Couture