Congratulations you’re engaged! Now the fun part begins: planning your wedding. There are so many small details from your dress and flowers to makeup and catering, but one thing every bride usually decides on first is the venue. In celebration of all our newly engaged brides, I’m sharing some of our favorite luxury wedding venues on Oahu. Being born and raised in Hawaii, I love the country. I grew up in the suburbs on south Oahu, but I believe I’m a country girl at heart. One of my favorite things to do on my days off is to drive around the island and stop to enjoy the calming sound of the waves rolling on the sand, which is probably why all of them are outside of the busy city and sit quietly in some of Oahu’s small towns. We’ll reveal one beautiful venue each day to help our brides-to-be with the first step to their perfect wedding day.
The Four Seasons Resort at Ko Olina, nestled on the west shore, is Oahu’s newest luxury resort. Formerly the Marriott Ihilani Resort, Four Seasons has revived the property to embody the feel and aesthetic of Hawaii. When you first walk into the resort, you’re greeted with an open and quite grand entrance. The airy lobby allows access directly to the Hokulea lounge, which is a cafe by day, bar by night, opening out to stunning views of the cove and Pacific Ocean.
There are four restaurants on property all with exquisite fare for varying palettes. Visit La Hiki for the breakfast buffet or if you’re adventurous and want to try some of Hawaii’s favorite pan-Asian style dishes. If you’d like to do a light lunch or dinner with cocktails check out Waterman Bar & Grill while you take in stunning views of the pool and sunset. Noe is known for it’s Italian cuisine as Chef Ryo Takasuka creates delectable dishes that combine the flavors of southern Italy with local seafood. You may also want to check as Noe periodically serves brunch. Fish House is well-known for it’s excellent seafood fare. Open for lunch, cocktail hour and dinner, you won’t be disappointed with original presentation and gorgeous views.
Around every corner are perfectly manicured landscapes with beautiful marina, ocean or mountain views. There are several different locations on property to have an intimate wedding with sweeping views of paradise. One of my favorites is the deck that hovers over the cove with picturesque 360 degree views. This area is the perfect location for a sunset ceremony. After you say your “I dos” head over to the grass area where you can celebrate with your family and friends while you enjoy the scenic views and watch the canoes gracefully float by on the ocean. The property also has a chapel on site for religious ceremonies that opens up to a stunning view of the ocean.
If you prefer having an indoor event, the Four Seasons has ballrooms that are designed with every detail perfectly executed. The Malolo Room, one of the larger event rooms, has floor to ceiling windows as well as a balcony to get an unobstructed view of the Waianae mountains. If you want something in between, you can have your intimate celebration in the veranda. With high vaulted ceilings and an open view to the fauna, pond and mountain views, it’s the perfect compromise.
With the opening of the Four Seasons in late 2016, it is one of the top luxury resorts on the island. Enjoy a true luxury island experience outside of the bustling city and go home with the aloha spirit and a new husband or wife. For more information contact Amanda Belton at amanda.belton@fourseasons.com.