Mar 123 min read

A Dream Maui Wedding at Hui No’eau and Pukalani Community Center | Kaala & Nathan

Updated: Jul 22

Wedding Ceremony

Nestled amidst the rolling hills and lush landscapes of Upcountry Maui, the Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center stands as a beacon of beauty and creativity. It’s a place where art, nature, and history converge, creating a unique setting that becomes the perfect backdrop for one of life’s most cherished celebrations - a dream Maui wedding. It was here, under the gentle Hawaiian sun, that Kaala and Nathan decided to exchange their vows, weaving their love story into the rich tapestry of this enchanting location.

The Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center, with its expansive lawns, historic buildings, and stunning views of the West Maui Mountains, provided a picturesque and versatile venue for Kaala and Nathan's special day.

The ceremony was held in the early afternoon, with the soft light of the Hawaiian sun filtering through the towering trees. The weather was a little bit chilly but the sun came out just in time for their ceremony casting a warm glow over the proceedings.

The grounds of the Hui No’eau, meticulously landscaped and bursting with tropical flora, created a natural aisle for Kaala’s walk toward her future. Guests were seated on the lawn, facing a simple yet stunning altar provided by Country Bouquets Maui and adorned with local flowers and greenery, blending seamlessly with the surrounding beauty. Let's Entertain Maui provided beautiful seating options with dark wood benches and cross-back chairs. Kanani Franco officiated the sacred ceremony. The couple’s vows were heartfelt and moving, echoing against the serene backdrop of the Maui countryside. The gentle breeze carried their promises to one another as if nature itself was bearing witness to their union.

After the ceremony concluded, Kaala, Nathan, and their bridal party departed with The Limo Company to have fun and enjoy their post-ceremony photo and video shoot provided by Hi Range Media. The guests, in the meantime, went straight to the reception hall.

Wedding Reception

Following the ceremony, this dream Maui wedding celebration continued at Pukalani Community Center. Located in the heart of Maui’s upcountry, with panoramic views that sweep across the island to the blue Pacific, the Pukalani Community Center offers a blend of scenic beauty and community warmth making it a unique choice for wedding receptions. One couple’s dream day there highlights how this venue is perfect for those looking to celebrate their love surrounded by the aloha spirit and breathtaking natural beauty.

The venue allows couples to incorporate elements of Hawaiian culture and the close-knit community feeling so intrinsic to life on Maui. The Pukalani Community Center, with its spacious hall and open-air spaces, became the canvas on which Kaala and Nathan painted their dream Maui wedding reception.

Reception Decor

For their reception, the couple decided on a theme that matched the venue’s ambiance. They used the natural beauty surrounding the center as inspiration, incorporating vibrant tropical flowers and soft, flowing all-white fabrics that danced in the upcountry breeze. The hall was transformed with lights and draping by Maui Event Lighting, casting a warm glow that made the evening feel intimate and magical.

Catering

No Hawaiian wedding reception would be complete without a feast that honors the rich culinary traditions of the islands. The couple worked with a local caterer Dani's Catering known for their ability to blend traditional Hawaiian dishes with gourmet flair. Guests were treated to a sumptuous buffet that included seafood, a variety of poke, pork and peas, look, and kalua pig. A highlight was the dessert bar featuring brownies, a choice of cheesecakes, haupia (coconut pudding), and a wedding cake provided by a local cake baker Chelsea Updike.

Entertainment and Activities

The entertainment for this dream Maui wedding was thoughtfully chosen to reflect Hawaii's cultural significance and beauty. Local musicians Ohana Vibes performed ceremony music. Later, during the reception, the local DJ Domingo partnered up with the emcee Val Toro to lead the wedding reception program, making announcements and keeping the guests entertained. Maui High School provided photobooth services. Kaala and her bridesmaids danced hula telling stories of love and the island through their graceful movements. The night ended with dancing to the Maui's band Homestead.

What set the reception apart was the spectacular setting, the exquisite food and entertainment, and the palpable sense of community and love. The Pukalani Community Center, often a hub for local gatherings and events, provided a sense of belonging and joy that enveloped the couple and their guests throughout the evening.