Planning a destination beach wedding in Hawaii requires forethought to ensure everything goes well and include everyone you love. Here are a few factors to keep in mind as you prepare for this special occasion.

3 Guest List Tips for Hosting a Beach Wedding in Hawaii

1. Invite Only Your Closest Loved Ones

The unique and beautiful beaches in Hawaii provide an amazing backdrop and an intimate setting for your big day, but keep in mind that they’re often small venues and there are restrictions for the amount of people allowed on any beach in Hawaii. To ensure optimum ease in finding the right spot, not to mention lowering your stress levels the day-of, keep your guest list to a max of the 20 or so people who mean the most to you.

If possible, send the invitations several months in advance to give people plenty of time to take off work, find flights, and book lodging. Since some people won’t be able to attend a destination wedding due to funds and travel time, don’t take it personally if they decline.

2. Keep Others Involved in the Ceremony

Just because some people can’t make it doesn’t mean they have to miss out entirely. You can create a video to share with friends and family after the beach wedding with snippets of getting ready, saying the vows, and reception speeches. Some couples also live-stream their ceremonies so people back home can watch this special moment in real-time.

3. Plan a Local Reception 

After having your once-in-a-lifetime destination wedding, host a reception or party in your hometown a few weeks or months later. This gathering is the perfect opportunity to invite people who couldn’t attend the wedding and those you love who weren’t on the guest list, so they also get to share their congratulations. 

If you’re interested in hosting an intimate beachside ceremony in Hawaii, contact Simple Kona Beach Weddings in Kailua-Kona. Owner Becky Ringler has years of experience offering personalized planning for destination weddings and vow renewals with all-inclusive packages. Call the Hawaiian wedding experts at (888) 582-5775 for a consultation, or visit the website for more information on their offerings. You can also check out previous clients’ five-star reviews on Wedding Wire, The Knot and Yelp.

Photo Credits: Top Photo: Robert Malovic (now retired); Middle Photo: Mark Hinwood Photography; Last Photo: Simple Kona Beach Weddings (cell phone)