From the moment Eric first contacted me and explained his vision, I was excitied! After 23 years of doing weddings, this would be my first surprise proposal & wedding! Eric was grateful that after speaking with several coordinators, he finally found someone who not only saw & understood his vision, but was enthusiastic about the details! Considering Eric and his partner, Steven, had been together 15+ years, the chances of him saying yes, were pretty solid and honestly, that would have been my only hesitation.
Disguised as a family photo session with Steven’s immediate family, they met with one of our favorite photographers, Nicole from www.behindthelensmaui.com at Po’olenalena beach. Unbeknownst to Steven, Eric had arranged for a small group of their close friends to also be on Maui to be a part of the special occasion. I had a fresh flower circle set up on the opposite side of the beach where the family stayed out of view until we were given the signal.
Nicole met with Steven, Eric and family and began strolling down the beach getting shots near where we had arranged for a guitarist, David Wolf & videographer, Stephan Broker to be. When the moment was right, David began to play a special song he learned just for this occasion! The photographer & videographer captured the moment when Steven realized this was for him, that was my cue to have the family walk down and surround the couple with love. Eric then asked Steven’s parents for permission to ask for his hand in marriage. After a beautiful proposal, lots of happy tears & hugs, we all walked back down the beach to where we had the circle of flowers and officiate waiting.
The couple presented leis to their parents and then exchanged rings, leis and kisses during a heart-warming ceremony performed by Charles Nahale. It was beautiful, their personal vows had us all laughing & crying!
