Many couples decide to get married on the spur of the moment, while sipping their morning coffee. Thirty days later, they’re standing on an Oahu beach, saying their “I do” with zero stress.
With Rev. James Chun by your side, planning a wedding in Hawaii is a breeze. We help couples tie the knot without big guest lists and endless checklists. If you are someone who likes doing things spontaneously, here are some tips on how to get married in under thirty days.
Why Choose Oahu for Your Hawaii Wedding?
Oahu has some of the best locations for a Hawaii civil wedding. You’ll have easy access to the Department of Health to grab your marriage license. Let’s not forget the beaches, parks, and ridges, which are all just minutes apart.
All you need to do for your quick destination wedding is fly in, get hitched, and fly out. All this saves couples thousands compared to traditional planners back home. Furthermore, civil ceremonies keep things straightforward and fully legal.
Days 1 to 3 to Secure Your Date
The first step in planning a wedding in Hawaii is to pick your date and lock it in before anything else falls into place. This also means doing a quick check on flights to ensure you can make it happen.
If you wish to sidestep weekend crowds and score better deals, it’s best to go for mid-week arrivals. You’ll always be ahead of the gamer because Oahu’s weather is reliable and good year-round.
Days 4 to 7 to Handle Licenses
Now that the wedding date is set, you can jump straight into applying for your marriage license. You can do this online, through the official website, where you’ll enter simple details like names, birthdates, and parents’ information. Then, you’ll be asked to pay the $65 fee and print your confirmation code.
There are no residency requirements, blood tests, or waiting periods that complicate things. All that’s required of you is to be at least 18, and if you’re recently divorced or widowed, bring the necessary documents if they’re less than 30 days old.
Next, you’ll need to book an appointment at the Oahu Department of Health. Both you and your partner must show up together with your IDs to pick up the license on the same day. The marriage license is valid for 30 days anywhere in the state.
Days 8 to 10 to Explore Oahu Locations
With the license underway, you can now concentrate on scouting the perfect spot for your Hawaii elopement. Here are some locations we think work beautifully for small groups:
- Honolulu Ridge offers fantastic panoramic views after an easy hike, where you can frame your vows with rugged mountains as a backdrop.
- Magic Island at Ala Moana provides stunning lagoon settings with the city skyline subtly in view.
- Aiea Loop Trail takes you on forest paths that are ideal for that intimate, nature-wrapped feel.
- Foster Gardens show off those tropical blooms, giving off a romantic garden vibe.
- Keehi Lagoon delivers classic beach energy minus Waikiki’s bustle.
- Plaza Courtyard is right outside the office and offers the ultimate convenience.
- You also have the option to skip the outdoors altogether and have an in-office wedding in a judge’s chamber.
Days 11 to 14 to Reserve An Officiant
The most important part of planning a wedding in Hawaii is booking an officiant who will ensure that everything flows legally and personally. The officiant is a licensed professional who conducts a short civil ceremony lasting 10-20 minutes.
Once you’ve exchanged your vows, the officiant will file all the paperwork. Your marriage certificate will arrive in the mail weeks later without you having to do anything.
Days 15 to18 for Permits and Logistics
With your wedding date approaching, you’ll need to address obtaining all the permits. You’ll want to keep things legal, especially if you’re having a Hawaii beach wedding. Here, Oahu’s state parks have pre-approved sites for which you can apply online through the DLNR portal. The permits usually cost $50-200, depending on the location. You also have private options, like our office, where you’ll entirely skip the permit process.
Days 19 to 21 for Planning Outfits and Extras
Once you’ve handled all of the legal tasks of planning a wedding in Hawaii, it’s time to think about outfits. The islands demand simple, breathable outfits, such as a flowy dress or a linen suit, that pair perfectly with sand-proof shoes or going barefoot. Our advice is to keep makeup light to beat the humidity.
This is also a good time to get your rings sized, if needed, and consider booking a local photographer who knows these spots inside out for golden-hour shots that capture the magic. Furthermore, flowers should stay minimal with just a single bouquet.
Days 22 to 25 for Guests and Timeline
Send quick text invites to the small guest list, the date, location via Google Maps, and a relaxed dress code. Direct flights into HNL make arrivals simple, with Ubers or shuttles handling transport. You can also book hotel rooms near Waikiki, which cuts the costs for everyone involved.
Days 26 to28 to Double-Check and Prep for Weather
Use these final prep days to run through your full checklist and confirm the license is ready, outfits are packed, and the spot is set. Oahu showers pass quickly, but we always have indoor backups, and your photographer will verify timing right alongside us.
Days 29 and 30 to Settle In and Say “I Do”
Arrive in Honolulu and get your license. You should check into your hotel to unpack before taking a quick walk to your Hawaii civil wedding location. This is the time when you exchange vows and share that first kiss. We’ll handle all the legal filing, leaving you married and free to toast.
Conclusion
Oahu’s central location is why couples choose it for their Hawaii elopement. The Health Department is right downtown, and all the spots are within a 20-minute drive.
Planning a wedding in Hawaii in just 30 days might sound overwhelming, but it can easily be done with our help.
Fill out our contact page today, or click through to the Locations or Wedding Services pages. Let’s turn your rush into reality.
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