Relying on the help of the seasoned staff at the St. Regis Princeville Resort, Tara Hansen began planning her nuptials to fiancé Raul Delatorre on the magical island of Kauai. “The St. Regis Princeville does so many amazing weddings, I had no doubt that mine would turn out just as incredible,” the bride says. “The [consultant] at the property had great ideas and had excellent vendor referrals, which helped me to take my time and enjoy the process.”

When Tara initially began scouting locations, she stopped immediately after discovering a photo of Kauai showcasing “beautiful canopy trees with the ocean and Hanalei Mountains in the background.” The bride remembers, “I knew [instantly] that I wanted to get married right there.” 

Forty of the couple’s loved ones trekked to Hawaii to participate in the celebration, including the couple’s respective broods. “It was important to include our children in the wedding,” shares the bride, who wore a timeless silk satin gown and carried a full bouquet of rosy peonies. “We each had our children walk us down the aisle.” The ceremony included Hawaiian customs, as well as another familial aspect; the minister cracked open a coconut that the couple and their children then all took a sip from to symbolize the new unit. The officiant also thanked Hawaiian ancestors per local custom and bound the couple’s hands together as a sign of their new journey together.

Choosing to focus on the beauty of the island, tropical flowers and a color scheme of vanilla, fuchsia, and tangerine were selected. The punchy and cream tones were implemented throughout the décor, including gorgeous orchids that dangled from tree branches and miniature bunches of flowers affixed to bamboo posts. Reception centerpieces included candlelight and hundreds of colorful blooms arranged in crystal vases, while a singular orchid was set on every silky dinner napkin to add a bit of sophistication to the otherwise relaxed, intimate event. 

Attendees dined on baby arugula salad, Kabocha squash soup, and a duet of beef tenderloin and Kona lobster during the sit-down supper. For the remainder of the evening, the couple and their guests enjoyed cocktails, dancing, and the merriment of the scene. 

The bride offers one bit of advice to others devising a destination wedding: “[Consult] with an event planner who knows the area well because hiring local vendors can make a big difference. These [professionals] can help eliminate the stress and worry of planning, so you can enjoy your day!”