Zack & Aleka’s love story began at a bar at the University of Maryland. Aleka said, “I will never be with someone I meet at a bar”. Never say never! 3 years later they had an epic surprise engagement on a family trip to Italy. So, with their so far adventurous relationship and engagement, it only seemed fitting to add that element into their Hawaii wedding day. Zack’s Father grew up on the island of Oahu so the Hawaiian Islands already held a very special place in their hearts. It only seemed right to start their life together as a married couple, here in Hawaii, with an adventure!

The morning of their wedding day, the island of Kauai was covered with low, dark grey clouds and the rain had started to sprinkle. The original plan was to hike to one of Kauai’s Beautiful Ridges and say their “I Do’s” on top of a mountain. This was obviously hindered by the idea of not getting those breathtaking views for their photos! Together Lead Coordinator, Lauren, Photographer, Jenna Lee and the couple made the decision that Kauai has SO many beautiful locations to offer and if the epic mountain views were going to be compromised they should switch to plan B. So, the wedding team of Hair and Makeup, Joanna with Jolee Artistry, ABC Coordinators, Lauren + Hannah, Photo and Video, Jenna Lee Pictures, Officiant Kahu Ai and Zack’s parents headed to the sea cliffs of the south shore!

As they reached the edge of the cliffs, the couple was overcome with the beauty of clouds, the cliffs, view of the mountains, and the sea turtles swimming beneath us! We all instantly knew this was the spot for their first look together. Aleka took to the trees to change into her gorgeous wedding dress and Zack scurried down the sea cliffs to put on his tux!

Their first look was nothing short of tear-jerking! With so much love and magic in the air, no one even seemed to care when it started raining (especially the bride and groom). Talk about being troopers. In their full wedding attire, we hiked 30 minutes along the beach and cliffs out to a sacred point where the ceremony would take place. With direction from the wildly talented Jenna Lee, the couple embraced ALL of the elements. They stopped to take photos on top of lava rocks, at the limestone lava tube, in the forest, and on the beach. It was truly an ADVENTURE!

The Mahaulepu coastal heritage trail leads us to our Ceremony site. Kahu Ai shared his knowledge and stories on the area and the sacred meaning of it. This was the last touch of magic the day needed. The couple shared a very special traditional Hawaiian Ceremony with Zack’s parents as witnesses.

The energy & connection this couple has is something you fall in love with from the moment you meet them. To end the night with a bang, the couple had a champagne toast and made their own shower! See below 😉  

We are so lucky to have been there to make this day happen for them. Their adventure elopement love story is something we will remember and be talking about for years to come.

Coordination: Lauren with Hawaii Adventure Elopements 

Hair & Make Up: Joanna with Jolee Artistry

Photography: Jenna Lee Pictures 

Officiant: Officiant Kahu Ai

Flowers: Kealoha Flowers