Frequently asked questions
What type of ceremonies do you perform?
I typically perform smaller intimate ceremonies that draw upon reflection of your relationship, celebrate your passage into new beginnings, and use aspects of the land (i.e. lei, paʻakai, niu) to help ground you in the moment. As a Kanaka I ground my ceremony in common Hawaiian practices but am open to incorporating elements you find important!
How long is the ceremony?
30 minutes will typically give enough time for pre-ceremony, introductions, vows, and closing.
Can we write our own vows?
Absolutely, in fact I sincerely encourage it. I believe in the power of personal vows and encourage you to find your collective voice that speaks to your shared future. Because of the importance of vows, I provide a vow coaching service with myself and/or wife who is a licensed marriage and family therapist.
How far in advance should we book you?
A few months in advance is great to give me enough time to get to know you and prepare for your specific needs but am happy to lead a spur of the moment ceremony as long as my availability is open. Feel free to reach out at any point in your planning!
What is the cost/price of wedding officatioin?
The average price per wedding is typically around $600. We can switch in and out components of the ceremony based on your vision and budget. At the bottom of this page are a list of common services I provide.
What is your cancellation or refund policy?
A 50% non-refundable payment is needed at time of booking in order to secure the date. The other 50% is due by the day of the ceremony.
What do you wear?
I typically wear a natural color linen shirt (e.g. beige, sage, white) and dress shorts with a ti leaf lei. I have done weddings requiring a suit to match more formal dress codes but am ultimately happy to wear anything you find appropriate for the ceremony. Ceremony pictures coming soon!
What services do you provide besides standard wedding officiation?
All the services should be laid out in the section below! Specifics to meet your needs would best be elaborated over the phone during a consultation with me. Click the "Contact" button in the menu at the top of this page to reach out. Aloha!
Services
Day-of-officiating
Upon booking with me, I will help plan the day-of-ceremony by going over elements you find important. I typically incorporate a few Hawaiian components that help center ourselves in gratitude, togetherness, and reflection. 1) Breath (Hā) helps ourselves center, relax, and reflect in what can seem like a vast and immeasurable step you are taking, 2) A lei is a gift that symbolizes unity and gratitude for your love, 3) Chant (oli) can bless a ceremony and provide a clear path to the future. Inquire for more info and example script/outline!
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Average ~$600
Vow writing &
Coaching
Composing thoughtful vows are often seen as the pinnacle of a wedding, as they transcend the ceremony itself, offering a lasting, heartfelt declaration of love and partnership that shapes the foundation of your future together. Prior to the ceremony we will meet several times to outline your love and commitments, go over example vows, and write/edit vows that best articulate your commitment to each other. This is typically in coordination with my wife Steph who is a writer and licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). Please inquire about example vows I've helped craft.
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Average ~$600
Flower harvest &
Lei making
Lei are often given during important life events to honor and show appreciation towards the recipient. Lei thoughtfully made by the hands of a loved one are thought to be the most precious. A day or two before the ceremony we will meet in a remote hiking area, reflect on your relationship while gathering, and arranging a beautiful and unique lei that celebrate your passage. These lei will represent a tactile connection to the land where your ceremony will take place and honor the symbolism of your unification.
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Average ~$800