Posted on July 21, 2008
Well, this weekend the state sent shock waves through the local wedding industry by announcing enforced policy in terms of beach weddings. While the law has been ‘on the books’ for many years now, an announcement of strict enforcement was made. Whether this has any real impact on the number of weddings held in Hawaii is yet to be seen. However, I would like all of my future clients who may be planning a beach wedding to understand this permitting process.
First, the form must be completed and mailed/hand delivered to the state DLNR office. The form can be found on the DLNR website at: Link
Note the form requires some specialized, detailed information such as a tax map key, square footage to be used, and detailed attendee and time information. You can find tax map keys here.
Second, be sure to allow at least one week for processing of the form. Shotgun weddings may need to at least have a one week buffer!
Third, ensure the beach you plan to have your wedding is state controlled. According to this law, the county may control the sand between low water and high water mark. If you plan on standing between these sections, you may not need this permit, and you may need a county permit instead.
Last, be ready to pony up a fee of $0.10 per square foot of sand you plan on standing on. The minimum charge is $20.00.
So, once you have chosen Hawaii for your wedding and plan on a beach wedding, be sure the beach you want is either a state or county beach. Make sure the sand area you want is either state or county, and go measure the area you want in square footage. Complete your permit, and mail in your check.
With any questions, always call the State DLNR office at: (808) 587-0400.
Posted on July 17, 2008
Many thanks to my friend Nate (www.nathansearles.com) for my delicious new logo!
Posted on July 17, 2008
This was a shot I took at a wedding in Alaska, a few years back. I had been working with the family for quite some time and was with them all morning for bridal and groom preparations. I could clearly see that Mary’s mom was a huge help and the ring leader for the wedding.
I turned and snapped this pic just as Mary’s mom was handing her the bouquet, and it seemed as if that was it. That was her resignation of her daughter’s youth…the turning point for her daughter’s adult life. And, this seemed like the final detail on a perfect wedding.
It is one of my favorite images of the day.
Posted on July 16, 2008
We all know firsthand the problems sometimes with photographs – the moment as you remember it just isn’t captured on the paper. As professional wedding photographers, we have the luxury of seeing things only from one perspective and with an outsider’s view.
I am starting a new blogseries called BACKSTORY, where I will choose an image from my portfolio, and share the story behind it.
Let me know what you guys think!
Scott
Posted on July 16, 2008
I designed this set for a recent engagement project where we had multiple shoots over multiple days.
The final box was shrink wrapped.
Posted on July 13, 2008
You guys had an incredible wedding! Thank you so much for letting me be a part of it all. The VW bug was INCREDIBLE, huh? I thought for sure the MPs would have pulled us over (driving across a military runway in a convertible bug with a bride and groom, their photographer standing in the front seat). It was such a blast.
Best wishes for you guys. Enjoy Ireland!
Scott
Posted on July 3, 2008
The other day I met up with some wedding clients to scout the location of their upcoming wedding. The bride to be asked me “Since you see all sorts of weddings, what are some things we should know?” Typically, I shy away from offering advice unless it pertains to photography. But I sure have seen some crazy things, and decided to offer a couple of points.
First, and most important – have contingency plans for everything. Identify the major components of your wedding day – ceremony location, flowers, band or DJ, photographer, etc. Then, establish a plan in the event something should happen. What if it looks like rain for your beach wedding? What if the DJ is in an accident en route to the wedding? These are, sadly, more common than you may think.
Second, rely on family and friends. Most people will enjoy supporting you on your wedding day. Don’t feel bad about doling out chores (aka responsibility – brand it wisely). Have people be responsible for specific items – setting up the ceremony, follow up with the florist, make sure the DJ volume is OK all night, etc.
Last, have a good time. So much planning and stress goes into your wedding that it seems people forget to appreciate it. Take deep breaths, roll with whatever issues pop up and remember what the core of the day is really about – celebrating your love.