It’s official! As of today, June 19 the state of Hawaii will allow weddings to take place as they qualify under gatherings for religious ceremonies.

But what does that mean? Who counts? Where?

All I can say is it’s a breath of relief to get this news, however picking up steam is a PROCESS. I’m part of a Facebook group with 282 other local wedding vendors teaming up to ensure we do this the right way, most efficient, healthy, safest etc. We care about our clients well being and the industry as a whole so there are a number of hoops we still have to jump through….. like a big one that 14 day travel quarantine for anyone who flies here. Travel ban is still in place until July 31 as of the time of this post.

So… The simplest answer right now is micro weddings, eloping or “minimonies” are the way to go if you are local. If you have a group of less than 50, can maintain social distancing measures, and ensure sanitation and cleanliness is handled you should get the green light to celebrate indoor or outdoor.

Outdoor weddings are allowed with up to 100 people (including all vendors in that headcount). Now more than ever is the time to lean on your vendor team (primarily planners) and get the 101. Permits need to be pulled, waivers signed, COVID-19 compliances met, and more so to start it’s not a skip in the park, but it’s not impossible either!

There is a light at the end of the tunnel and the state has done an outstanding job of keeping numbers of overall cases low. Our industry will likely be meeting with government officials soon to discuss our concerns and come up with creative solutions to ensure all parties are best protected.

Here’s some helpful links to read for more information:

Hawaii Re-Opening Presentation

Q+A of the 4 Phases of Re-Opening

It’s Still Not The Time to Travel To Hawaii

Hang in there friends, it’s been a rough 4 months, but we can make it out alright. Sending love and joy your way.

xoxo,

Marina