If you want breathtaking, sweeping views of mountains for your big day, check out Charmaine and Brysen’s Ko’olau Ballrooms wedding. This day was a long time coming for the couple, but worth the wait. I actually met Charmaine and Brysen in early 2020…before the disease that shall not be named came into the picture. You like what I did there haha?

We had their engagement session at Kavela Bay on Oahu’s north shore and were preparing for their wedding in December of 2020. A heavy set of restrictions rained down on Charmaine and Brysen so they decided to postpone their day a whole year to 2021. It takes a lot of love for your guests to postpone that long to make sure everyone can come and celebrate with you!

Getting Ready at the Prince Waikiki

Nestled near the harbor, the Prince Waikiki is the perfect space for brides and grooms to get ready. The hotel has modern décor and the rooms are spacious, which let my team and I get some beautiful shots. I also appreciated all the natural light that could stream through their floor-to-ceiling windows! Talk about perfect lighting for those dreamy bridals!

While the girls were busy getting styled to perfection by Perfectly Made Hawaii, the guys were kicking back and enjoying some well deserved drinks to ease those pre-wedding jitters. I could tell both groups were excited to celebrate!

Another thing I loved about the Prince Waikiki Hotel is the gorgeous outdoor pool with unique architecture. It’s the perfect spot for a first look! Charmaine and Brysen also chose to do some private vows there. When Charmaine walked out in her sparkly princess gown from Masako Formals Hawaii, I could absolutely tell Brysen was blown away! It was such a sweet and intimate moment the two got to share!

Surreal mountainous beauty at the Ko’olau Ballrooms

After the first look and some formal bridal party and groomsmen photos, we left for the ceremony at the Ko’olau Ballrooms. The venue is located in Kaneohe, on Oahu’s east side. The Ko’olau Ballrooms and Conference Center is on a golf course, so the grounds are pristine. When you rent the space for a wedding or event, you gain full use of the space and parking lot (a huge plus if you are having a large wedding on Oahu).

The Ko’olau Ballrooms wedding ceremony location is just outside the building and has sweeping mountain views. I was truly blown away with the scenery and all those vibrant greens.

Charmaine and Brysen chose a classic blue, green, and white color scheme for their Ko’olau Ballrooms wedding. I was very impressed by the elegant floral arrangements by Easley Designs and Events. Because the backdrop was so striking, it was actually nice not having an arch at the ceremony! Also great for me because I didn’t have to worry about Charmaine and Brysen being perfectly centered hehe.

Kawena Mechler led a beautiful wedding ceremony and included traditional Hawaiian touches such as a blessing and exchange of breath.

The staff at the Ko’olau Ballrooms and Conference center were kind enough to take us to some less accessible areas of the course for dreamy “just married” portraits. Although it was cloudy, the vibe was excited and intimate.

Time to Celebrate the Newlyweds!

Now that Charmaine and Brysen were officially married, it was time to celebrate! The Ko’olau Ballrooms and Conference center offers outdoor weddings with indoor elegance. From buffets to individually served course entrees, the staff and kitchen is there to please. I was lucky enough to try some of the tasty dishes and I was in for a treat. Charmaine and Brysen also let me know that the menu was completely customizable! I could tell they were pleased with the all-in-one package and help with wedding planning that was offered by the staff at the Ko’olau Ballrooms.

After a grand entrance, a first dance, a delicious buffet, a few drinks, and a bouquet and garter toss, Charmaine and Brysen danced the night away in wedded bliss 🙂 Thanks for letting me be a part of your special day!

Want more on Oahu wedding venues? Check out my post about Secret Island at Kualoa Ranch!

Planning a wedding in Hawaii? Check out my work + contact me to book!

Thank you to all these amazing vendors:

Hotel – Prince Waikiki Hotel | Venue – Ko’olau Ballrooms and Conference Center | Florals – Easley Designs and Events | Wedding Dress – Masako Formals | Ring – Kay Jewelers | Hair + Makeup – Perfectly Made Hawaii | Wedding Coordinator – Taryn at A touch of you