One of the most important aspects of Zachary and Kaela’s day was to have an experience for their guests. Instead of the usual church bells and ballrooms, they decided to spice things up with a wild adventure elopement aboard the Pride of Maui. And let me tell you, it was nothing short of legendary. Their Pride of Maui wedding had everything from whales and dolphins to an amazing dance party and a sky full of stars.
The day kicked off in ‘Iao Valley, a lush paradise straight out of a fairy tale. Kaela and Zachary exchanged vows other amidst towering bamboo trees. It was intimate, it was serene, and it was the perfect start to their epic adventure.
One of my favorite parts of the day was when Kaela’s best friend showed up when were in ‘Iao. Despite battling the flu and facing more flight cancellations than you can shake a palm tree at, Kaela’s best friend made it to Maui just in time to fulfill her bridesmaid duties. Talk about friendship goals, right? Even though she couldn’t join the boat party (thanks, flu), it was amazing she made it for portraits!
We made our way to Maalaea Harbor next to greet friends and family as they boarded the boat. The Pride of Maui was decked out in flowers fit for a tropical dream. And guess what? Kaela and Zachary lucked out with the weather – no storms in sight! This is saying something because it was the only day that week that it didn’t storm!
Pride of Maui Wedding
As they said their “I do’s” against the backdrop of the ocean, nature decided to crash the party in the best way possible. Humpback whales showed up for a cameo, flipping and frolicking in the distance. I have to say, when I met them ahead of time to talk about their timeline, we wrote down “whales during the ceremony” – I swear we manifested them. And if that wasn’t enough, a pod of dolphins decided to join the celebration, making it a double feature of aquatic awesomeness.
The rest of the evening was a blur of toasts, laughter, and some seriously killer dance moves. With the stars twinkling overhead and the ocean breeze in their hair, Kaela and Zachary soaked in every moment of their unforgettable day.
This Pride of Maui wedding was all about sharing Maui with the people Kalea and Zachary love most. And I’ll tell ya, that’s the experience I wish for all my couples!
A big thank you to the Pride of Maui staff that made this a seamless and memorable wedding experience for Kaela, Zachary, and their families!
Photographer: Angela Nelson Photography
Venue: Pride of Maui
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