Bay and Joe’s North Shore elopement in Oahu was one of those days that felt like pure joy. Rather than having a large guest list, they brought only their closest friends for a weeklong island trip that ultimately turned into a mix of vacation, reunion, and celebration. As a result, everyone was fully present, laughing together and soaking in the beauty of the Hawaiian coastline!
From the moment I arrived, the energy was warm and welcoming. You could tell this was more than a wedding, it was a celebration of friendship and shared memories. The ceremony took place right on the sand, with the ocean breeze moving through the group and the sound of waves filling in the pauses between vows.
The North Shore is famous for its rugged coastline and turquoise water, and this setting couldn’t have been more perfect for Bay and Joe’s ceremony. Meanwhile, barefoot guests stood in a circle, the groomsmen in light neutrals and the bridesmaids in bright, tropical colors that mirrored the island. As Bay walked down the beach, her floral crown and bouquet by Kaululani Florals stood out beautifully against the soft backdrop of the sea!
I loved how everyone cheered as the couple exchanged rings. In that moment, it was clear the atmosphere wasn’t formal or overly posed. Those are the kinds of moments I always look for while photographing a North Shore elopement: the unplanned, genuine ones that carry the most emotion!
Afterward, we ventured deeper into the island for portraits in a nearby jungle area that felt straight out of a movie. It turns out, scenes from The Hunger Games: Catching Fire were filmed there near Turtle Bay Resort! The lighting was golden and soft, filtering through the trees in a way that made every photo feel cinematic.
Bay’s dress caught the light beautifully with every movement. The floral details added such texture and depth to each frame. When they started dancing barefoot under the trees, you could feel the magic of the moment.
Finally, we ended the day back at the beach as the sun dipped low, turning the water to gold. Bay and Joe walked hand in hand along the shoreline, occasionally stopping to look out at the horizon or laugh about something one of their friends said earlier. The evening light in Oahu is unreal. It wraps around everything softly, giving every image a sense of peace and warmth.
Days like this remind me why I love photographing intimate celebrations. When the focus is on connection and presence, the photos tell the story exactly as it felt in the moment.
If your dream day includes ocean breezes, barefoot walks on golden sand, and an effortless kind of love story, the North Shore is calling. Whether you’re exchanging vows at sunrise or chasing waves after your ceremony, I’d love to capture every real, unposed, joy-filled moment. Let’s start planning your Oahu elopement and bring your vision to life — simple, heartfelt, and surrounded by island beauty. Reach out today to learn more about my packages and all the details!
Hair + Makeup: @perfectlymadehawaii
Florals: @kaululaniflorals