Building Your Dream Team
Connect with Big Island's finest wedding vendors and professionals
Written by a Local Expert
Kalani MillerYour Wedding Team is Your Lifeline
Your wedding team is your lifeline, especially when planning from thousands of miles away. You need people who are not only experts at their craft but also intimately understand the unique challenges of the Big Island. I've worked with hundreds of vendors here. These are the questions that separate the good from the great.
When you start receiving quotes, you may notice that some services are priced higher than on the mainland. This isn't arbitrary. It reflects the real challenges of our island location. Nearly everything, from specialty flowers to high-end rental equipment, must be shipped across the ocean. This incurs significant costs. Furthermore, the Big Island is, well, big. A vendor based in Kona may need to drive two hours or more to service a wedding in Hilo. Their quote will necessarily include that travel time and expense. Understanding this helps you budget realistically and appreciate the effort that goes into creating a beautiful event here.
Wedding Planners
Your On-Ground Advocate
A great local planner is the single most important investment you can make. They are your on-the-ground advocates and problem-solvers. Look for planners who specialize in the type of wedding you envision.
Sunshower Weddings
Known for their meticulous, detail-oriented approach and focus exclusively on Big Island weddings.
Simple Hawaii Wedding
Experts in crafting beautiful, stress-free beach and venue ceremonies for smaller groups (50 guests and under).
Kona Wedding Officiant
Highly reviewed for their personal touch and expertise in elopements and intimate beach ceremonies.
⚠️ Key Question for Planners
Do your packages include the cost and labor for filing beach/park permits? The permit process is non-negotiable for public locations. Ensure your planner handles this. It's not something you can easily do yourself.
Photographers & Videographers
Capturing Your Memories
Your photos and video are the lasting memories of your day. Choose a professional who is skilled at shooting in Hawaii's intense and rapidly changing light.
📷 Key Question for Photographers
Can I see a full gallery from a wedding at my venue or one with similar lighting (e.g., harsh midday sun on a lava field)? Lighting conditions are extreme here. You need to see how they handle deep shadows and bright sun, not just perfect sunset shots.
Florists
Tropical Beauty
A local florist can guide you toward using stunning tropical flowers that are grown right here on the island. Not only are they more sustainable, but they are also better adapted to withstand the heat and humidity.
🌺 Key Question for Florists
Which of my desired flowers are grown locally versus which need to be shipped in? How does this affect cost and resilience in the heat? Shipping flowers to Hawaii is expensive and risky. Using local tropicals like orchids, anthuriums, and ginger is often more sustainable, cost-effective, and durable.
Caterers
Farm-to-Table Excellence
The Big Island has an incredible farm-to-table culinary scene.
Papa Kona Events & Catering
Offers great flexibility with diverse offsite catering menus and full bar services.
HeartBeet Catering
Specializes in customized, health-supportive menus using fresh, local ingredients. Perfect for couples with a focus on wellness.
Merriman's
Peter Merriman is a pioneer of Hawaii Regional Cuisine. Their catering service brings that legendary, high-end restaurant quality to your event.
🚚 Key Question for Caterers
How do you handle food transport and safety for remote venues like a ranch or private estate? Food safety is paramount. They need to have refrigerated trucks and a clear plan for keeping food at the correct temperature over long distances.
Musicians & Entertainment
Setting the Mood
The right music sets the mood for your entire day.
Ceremony Music
Consider the beautiful sounds of an instrumental guitarist like Ravi Lamb or a classical ensemble like String Poets.
Reception Music
For a party that will have everyone on the dance floor, a high-energy group like the Island Kings Band is a fantastic choice.
Key Questions for Your Big Island Wedding Vendor
This checklist goes beyond the basics. These are the questions that will reveal a vendor's true experience and preparedness for the unique challenges and opportunities of a Big Island wedding.
For All Vendors
Question:
What is your specific backup plan for rain, especially for an outdoor venue?
Why It's Crucial: This is the #1 question. Weather can change in minutes. A professional will have a detailed, immediate plan, not just a vague "we'll figure it out."
Question:
Do you charge travel fees for events outside of the Kona/Kohala area?
Why It's Crucial: The island is huge. A vendor based in Kona might charge hundreds to travel to Hilo or Volcano. This must be in the contract.
Next: Planning by Season
Learn about the best times to get married on the Big Island and tips for your guests.
🗺️ Wedding Guide
Getting started
Marriage LicensePermits & paperwork
Venues & LocationsFind your perfect spot
You are here
Best times & guest tips
✅ Vendor Checklist
- Wedding Planner
- Photographer
- Videographer (optional)
- Florist
- Caterer
- Musician/DJ
- Hair & Makeup
- Transportation
💰 Budget Tips
- Expect 10-30% higher prices than mainland
- Factor in travel fees for distant venues
- Use local flowers and ingredients
- Book 8-12 months in advance
💡 Kalani's Tip
Ask every vendor for references from recent Big Island weddings. Then actually call those references. You'll learn more in a 5-minute conversation than from any website or brochure.