get married in hawaii
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How to Plan and Legally Get Married in Hawaii

Nowadays, Hawaii is undoubtedly one of the most popular and dreamiest places to get married. It is an island with so many gorgeous locations, the state does not require a lot of paperwork, and versatility is the main feature, meaning you can create the celebration you have envisioned. 

However, if you wish to get married in Hawaii, you probably dread the planning process and preparation of documents. Organizing a union from a different country might make handling all the elements of a magical celebration difficult. But do not worry because we have everything covered for you. In this blog, you will read about how you can easily plan a Hawaii wedding! 

get married in hawaii

Getting Married in Hawaii – How to Do It?

If you are planning to get married in Hawaii, the process is pretty simple. 

First, you will need to apply online for a marriage license, which costs $65 and is non-refundable. After that, be sure to meet with an agent about 30 days before your wedding to go over your application and any required documents, such as a valid government ID. 

Remember, your ceremony has to happen within 30 days of picking up your license. Otherwise, it will not be valid anymore. However, the good news is that there are no residency or citizenship requirements, meaning you will not have to prepare some special documents that will take days to get. 

If this seems complicated to you, you can always ask us to help you. Our Hawaii wedding officiant services also include features like preparing paperwork and handling all those documents that you cannot do from far away.  

Steps for Planning a Hawaiian Wedding 

Once you get a hold of the legal requirements, you can move on to the exciting stuff. This means choosing a location, along with all the features and details you want incorporated into your Hawaii wedding. 

Find Your Dreamy Location

One of the most important things to get married in Hawaii is the spot you pick for these unforgettable moments. The entire state of Hawaii is fascinating, but you will have to choose one. And we will be honest with you – this can be a difficult task in the planning process. 

However, we have narrowed it down to several locations that are considered undoubtedly stunning. Checking them out can help you find exactly what you are looking for. 

  • Oahu

Oahu is home to Honolulu, Waikiki, and the North Shore, all of which are super popular. With so many amazing spots, finding a wedding venue on the island is a breeze. Whether you want to tie the knot on the beautiful sandy beaches with big waves, in the city of Honolulu, or surrounded by lush greenery, you really cannot go wrong with choosing Oahu for your Hawaii wedding.

  • Kauai

Kauai, often called the Garden Isle, is abundant with native plants, wildlife, and beautiful beaches. It features amazing spots like Waimea Canyon State Park, Na Pali Coast State Park, and the picturesque Hanalei Bay, along with several fantastic wedding venues. Plus, the weather stays pretty consistent throughout the year, making it a great option for weddings in any season!

Establish The Type of a Wedding You Want 

Since getting married in Hawaii allows a lot of versatility, you need to decide what kind of celebration you want. You can have a big wedding with a lot of guests, or a more intimate one with only your close people. However, you can also decide to have an elopement and share those special moments between the two of you only. As you can see, it is not strange that couples love Hawaii, considering all of these options.

Moreover, you can decide to have a Hawaiian courthouse wedding, a town union, or a beach celebration. Once you pick a location, you will have to determine the type of wedding you want. That is how you will be able to proceed with other details. 

Decide Whether You Want a Wedding Officiant 

A Hawaii wedding officiant will help you make your wedding authentic and memorable. This is a person who will perform your ceremony and add a unique touch to the entire celebration. However, besides performing your union, they can also include some ceremonial bridal traditions that are common in Hawaii. This will be a way to make your wedding stand out. 

Moreover, a Hawaii wedding minister can also help you handle all the details revolving around your celebration. Since you will have to start planning from your home, it might be a little bit difficult to determine all the features from a different country. But this is a local person who has a lot of connections, meaning they can help you organize everything even before you arrive in Hawaii. 

Figure Out Wedding Vendors 

When planning your Hawaii wedding, it is important to consider which additional vendors you might need. Many venues include certain vendors in their packages, so take a moment to review what is covered and see what gaps you need to fill. 

One of the unique things about Hawaii is that the wedding vendor community is quite close-knit. This makes getting referrals easier, which can help streamline planning and ensure everything goes smoothly on the big day. Plus, there are plenty of vendors who can manage multiple aspects of your wedding – like planning, coordination, and officiation – all in one go. 

For instance, our Hawaii wedding packages help couples plan everything easily. There are different kinds, so you can pick the one that has the features you need. Whether you need a photographer or a makeup artist, we have you covered. Your only job would be to relax and enjoy your big moments. 

Trust us, the wish to legally get married in Hawaii is not as challenging as it may seem. You just need to find the right people who can help you, and you will be able to enjoy a stress-free bridal celebration. Plus, you do not need a lot of paperwork, meaning your union can go smoothly and with an abundance of memorable moments.

Want to discuss bridal details? Fill out our contact page. If you need more details, explore our Wedding Services and Locations pages. In case you wish to discover more tips, then our blog page will be of assistance!

hawaii courthouse wedding
Categories TIPS

Hawaii Courthouse Wedding: Legal, Simple, and Beautiful

Planning your big day can feel overwhelming, given the many decisions and costs, but a Hawaii courthouse wedding might be just what you need if you are after a simple and serene ceremony. This option lets you enjoy a beautiful destination wedding without the stress. Many couples choose it because it helps them avoid headaches, and the experience is magical! 

To get married in Hawaii legally, you will need a marriage license, but luckily, the process is straightforward. Whether you are a tourist or a local, we will guide you through the essentials of courthouse weddings, from handling the paperwork to planning your big day, ensuring it is memorable and easygoing.

What Are The Perks of a Hawaii Courthouse Wedding?

Many couples dream of a big wedding with majestic landscapes and a stunning setting. However, when you look into the logistics, the budget, and the entire planning process, seeking alternatives is a solution for many newlyweds. That is how hosting a Hawaii courthouse wedding has become quite popular among lovebirds.

Namely, City Hall style weddings in Hawaii come with numerous perks that couples love, so it is unsurprising that many decide to go for them. Here are some of the advantages you can count on if you decide to get married in a Hawaiian courthouse. 

  • Simplicity, Privacy, and Affordability

Having a smaller guest list or no guest list at all really lets you focus on your love story. A Hawaii courthouse wedding creates a personal and meaningful atmosphere for your special day. You get the chance to enjoy these special moments with your other half and maybe share them with some of your closest people.  

Moreover, these kinds of bridal celebrations allow you to save a lot of money, which means you can spend more on unforgettable experiences or a fantastic honeymoon. In short, you do not have to spend a fortune to enjoy your big day since it can be simple and intimate and, without a doubt, stunningly beautiful. 

  • Versatility and Flexibility 

Another great aspect of Hawaii civil weddings is their flexibility. You can plan your bridal celebration whenever it suits you without worrying about seasonal venue availability or lengthy planning timelines. There are so many wonderful spots you can choose for your celebration! The best part? You do not have to think about the weather. Hawaii is one of the places on the planet where it rarely rains, so couples do not feel overwhelmed about significant changes in plans. 

In addition, since these weddings happen in the City Hall, newlyweds can opt for any spot for celebration. Or, they do not even have to book a venue for lunch or dinner if they do not want to. Instead, they can go for some activities on the island and enjoy their special moments authentically. Some activities can also be done in groups, so if your loved ones are present at your Hawaii courthouse wedding, you can include them in your things to do as well – of course, if you want to! 

  • Stress-Free and Relaxed 

Let’s not forget how stress-free City Hall weddings in Hawaii can be! You will not have to deal with elaborate decorations or catering details, so you can truly enjoy your commitment without the extra hassle. Some couples simply want to enjoy these moments and not care about bridal features and details. 

If you have always dreamed of a relaxed wedding, a courthouse union can be your ideal option. Take into account that this is your big day, so if you want to make it simple, go for the courthouse wedding. You will not regret it!   

How to Plan a Courthouse Wedding in Hawaii? 

As we mentioned, a Hawaii courthouse wedding is quite simple and beautiful. Namely, it takes only a few steps to legally get married and give your love story another chapter in a magnificent place. 

  • Choose Your Location 

When planning a City Hall wedding in Hawaii, you can pick whatever location you want. Or choose to have a simple ceremony in the beautiful natural surroundings…from stunning beaches to glorious parks, there is something for every taste. Just imagine tying the knot surrounded by stunning scenery, like lush landscapes or the beautiful Pacific Ocean. 

Undoubtedly, Hawaii boasts so many gorgeous spots. Plus, the warm, welcoming aloha spirit adds a special cultural touch to your day. Choosing Hawaii for your courthouse wedding means more than just a pretty backdrop –  it is an unforgettable celebration filled with island charm!

  • Obtain a Marriage License 

Getting a marriage license usually involves a few standard requirements like your social security number and state ID. If you are having a Hawaii civil wedding, both partners need to go in person to a Department of Health office to apply. Each county might have slightly different rules, so double-checking those details can help avoid any surprises. Overall, knowing what you need for a marriage license can make planning your wedding a lot easier and less stressful!

If handling documents and legal paperwork seems difficult and tricky to you, we can help you prepare all the papers you need. We know that this is the part couples hate, so we are here to help you as much as we can. 

  • Hire a Photographer 

Since Hawaii courthouse weddings are simple and lovely, they deserve to be documented. With that said, we strongly recommend that you pick a professional photographer who will capture all your big moments. Your amazing outfits, the vows, the excitement of getting ready, and all those little moments in between are worth being framed. Every memory counts! When it is all said and done, professional photos and videos are what you will cherish the most. 

If you believe that looking for a professional photographer in another country is difficult, you can always opt for our packages, which include an expert who will ensure your memories are preserved. 

Couples who dream of getting married in a fascinating location will love the idea of a Hawaii courthouse wedding. Having your big day in such a glorious setting with great features might be just what you need! 
If you are ready to discuss wedding details with us, fill out the contact page. Head over to the Locations or Wedding Services pages if you need more information about getting married in Hawaii. Wish to read more? Discover our blog!

immigration process
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Immigration process for couples

The Immigration Process for Couples

Hawaii is an idyllic location for destination weddings. But what happens when two people hold different citizenships, in particular, where a U.S. citizen wants a foreign-born partner to be able to live and work in the United States following marriage? This post will discuss some options for the couple to consider in the immigration process. See also our post about the Marriage Apostille process.

immigration process


What if the couple is married and already living in the United States? There is a process where the foreign-born spouse might be able to adjust status to U.S. permanent residency without ever having to leave the United States. However, whether this option is available will depend upon a variety of factors, including the way the foreign-born partner entered the U.S. (e.g., with a visa, or without inspection). Please consider speaking with an experienced immigration attorney, who will be able to explain the process as well as potential issues that might apply to your case and the risks involved with such an application.None of the above options are guaranteed, and no one size fits all. During a consultation, an experienced immigration attorney will be able to explain the pros and cons of each of the above options. In addition, an attorney will gather facts that are unique to your situation, and advise you of potential obstacles you might experience. This way, you can rest assured that you are proceeding with the best immigration option for your situation. The team at Noha Immigration Law LLLC enjoys helping couples navigate the U.S. immigration process. Founder and Managing Attorney Sherry Nohara is a former ICE Senior Attorney, and has nearly 23 years of experience exclusively practicing in the area of immigration law.

K-1 Visa

A K-1 visa, if approved, will allow a foreign-born partner who is currently outside of the United States, to enter the U.S. for the purpose of marrying the U.S. citizen spouse. Following their marriage, K-1 visa holders must apply to adjust their immigration status from a K-1 to a U.S. lawful permanent resident based on their post-marital status as the spouse of a U.S. citizen.

The K-1 visa involves two steps. The first requires the U.S. citizen to file a Form I-129F petition to demonstrate to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) that the citizen and foreign-born partner will legally marry within 90 days of the partner’s entry into the United States. If the I-129F is approved, the foreign-born partner moves on to the second step, filing an application for a K-1 visa with U.S. Department of State (“DOS”). The partner must also attend an interview at a U.S. consular post abroad. If approved, the foreign-born partner will use the K-1 to travel to the United States. Marriage First, Followed by an Immigrant Visa.

Sometimes couples don’t want to wait for a K-1 visa. Indeed, the processing times for an I-129F petition can vary wildly – from as long as 15 months to as little as three (3) months. (Many factors affect processing times. Contact an experienced immigration attorney for more information.) Where the U.S. citizen and foreign-born spouse are able to marry abroad before coming to the United States, they would (following their marriage) proceed to obtain an “immigrant visa” for the foreign-born spouse to live
permanently in the U.S. This, like the K-1 application, is also a two-step process. The U.S. citizen would first file a Form I-130 petition to demonstrate to USCIS that the marriage to the foreign-born spouse is bona fide, meaning it is a “real” marriage. If the I-130 is approved, the foreign-born spouse moves on to the second step, filing an application for an immigrant visa with the DOS. The spouse must attend an interview at the U.S. consular post nearest to the spouse. If approved, the foreign-born spouse will receive an “immigrant visa” to travel to the U.S. And, upon landing on U.S. soil, the spouse will automatically become a permanent resident of the United States. Permanent residents obtain a document that is also known as a “green card” in the United States.

Adjustment of Status

What if the couple is married and already living in the United States? There is a process where the foreign-born spouse might be able to adjust status to U.S. permanent residency without ever having to leave the United States. However, whether this option is available will depend upon a variety of factors, including the way the foreign-born partner entered the U.S. (e.g., with a visa, or without inspection). Please consider speaking with an experienced immigration attorney, who will be able to explain the process as well as potential issues that might apply to your case and the risks involved with such an application.

None of the above options are guaranteed, and no one size fits all. During a consultation, an experienced immigration attorney will be able to explain the pros and cons of each of the above options. In addition, an attorney will gather facts that are unique to your situation, and advise you of potential obstacles you might experience. This way, you can rest assured that you are proceeding with the best immigration option for your situation.

The blog post was written by Sherry Nohara of the Noha Immigration Law Firm.

The team at Noha Immigration Law LLLC enjoys helping couples navigate the U.S. immigration process. Founder and Managing Attorney Sherry Nohara is a former ICE Senior Attorney, and has nearly 23 years of experience exclusively practicing in the area of immigration law. For more information about immigration law, please contact Sherry Nohara.

808-808-6642
info@nohalaw.com

Categories TIPS

Is a Hawaii Courthouse Wedding Right for You?

When your dream is to get married in Hawaii, you need to consider all your options to make the right choice. Namely, you can have your ceremony in different locations and pick distinct features for your big day. However, deciding on everything, especially when you are planning your destination wedding from far away, is not easy! For instance, many couples have found themselves at a crossroads when trying to decide whether to go for a beach or Hawaii courthouse wedding. This is one of the biggest dilemmas for newlyweds because both options come with great benefits. If you are experiencing similar thoughts and mixed feelings, we are here to help you! 

In this blog, we will explain how a Hawaii courthouse wedding is planned. Once you read all about it, you will know whether this is the right choice for you. 

hawaii courthouse wedding

What Is a Hawaii Courthouse Wedding? 

A Hawaii courthouse wedding is basically a legal agreement between two people in love who want to commit to each other for life. Simply, getting married legally is just a way for the law to recognize that partnership. In other words, it is about making it official on paper so you can call yourself spouses in front of everyone and strengthen that bond between you. 

However, just because the civil part is about handling paperwork does not mean you cannot have a fun wedding celebration! The main difference between a formal marriage and a typical wedding ceremony is that one does not take place in a church or another type of religious temple or institution.  

Most people who choose to marry in a courtroom still want the whole experience – a wedding dress, bridesmaids, flowers, and a big celebration. On the other hand, some couples prefer to keep it simple and fast, skipping the dress and even the rings entirely. Namely, they go for a Hawaii courthouse marriage to keep the event as small as possible and enjoy their privacy. 

Benefits of Choosing a Courthouse Wedding in Hawaii 

When you are unsure whether a Hawaii courthouse wedding is the right thing for you, looking at the benefits might be helpful. Once you see what you get with this kind of union, you will be sure whether this is something you want for your big day or not. 

  • Intimacy 

Hawaii civil weddings let couples really focus on what matters most – their love and commitment to each other. By choosing this simpler route, you can create a private and meaningful ceremony that reflects your unique bond without all the fuss and extravagance of a big wedding. Namely, you do not have to worry about traditions and details that do not really interest you. On the contrary, you get to enjoy these special moments without stressing over anything that does not really matter. 

  • Elegance, Versatility, and Uniqueness 

Hawaii courthouse weddings can be really beautiful and elegant! Most courthouses on the islands have stunning architecture and lovely surroundings, making them perfect for those picture-perfect wedding photos. You can pick whatever scenery you want, and have a dreamy day! 

Moreover, you can choose to dress up as much as you want or keep it casual – it is all about what feels right for you. If you have never imagined yourself in a big white gown or a classic tuxedo, then there is no reason to go for it. It is your day, so you can pick what to wear! 

After saying “I do” at the courthouse, the celebration options are endless! Whether you want a simple reception at a fancy restaurant, a laid-back get-together at a Hawaiian beach, or even a party, you can celebrate in whatever way suits you best. Courthouse weddings really set the stage for a fun post-wedding celebration, allowing couples to create wonderful, lasting memories.

  • Budget-Friendly 

One of the biggest perks of having a Hawaii civil wedding is how much money you can save. Traditional weddings can really add up with costs for venues, catering, decorations, and all sorts of other things, especially if you opt for the destination kind. By choosing a courthouse wedding, couples can keep it budget-friendly and focus their finances on things that matter for their future, like a honeymoon or even their dream car or home.

In short, the money couples usually spend on venues and details, you can invest in a nice and adventurous honeymoon in Hawaii. Weddings can be celebrated in different ways, meaning you do not always need to have a big and expensive event to make it special.

What Happens After a Courthouse Wedding in Hawaii?

Hawaii courthouse weddings are short and sweet, typically lasting around 10 to 15 minutes. A judge or officiant will lead the ceremony, during which you will exchange vows and, if you like, rings. Once everything is wrapped up, you will get a temporary marriage certificate, and the official one will be mailed to you later.

However, the interesting stuff comes after – it is time to celebrate the Hawaiian way! If you are unsure how to kick off the festivities, there are plenty of fun options. Y

You could have a beach photoshoot at iconic locations like Waikiki Beach or Lanikai Beach. For a more immersive experience, consider hosting a traditional Hawaiian luau, complete with delicious food and entertaining cultural performances. If you prefer something quieter, a romantic dinner at one of Hawaii’s fine dining restaurants could be perfect. And do not forget about all the activities waiting for you – think helicopter tours, exploring beautiful botanical gardens, or snorkeling. So get ready for some unforgettable adventures!

As you can see, a Hawaii courthouse wedding can be as unique and authentic as a traditional celebration at a venue. This is your chance to create something really memorable for yourself and make your day marvelous. 

If you are ready to discuss details, you can fill out our contact form and start your planning process. To explore more about Hawaiian weddings, check out our Services and Locations, or simply head to our blog section for more ideas!

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Courthouse vs. Beach: Why Opting For A Honolulu Courthouse Wedding Is Becoming A More Popular Choice

If you decide to get married in Hawaii, you have several options to create the wedding of your dreams. Namely, you can book a venue, pick a beach, or go to the courthouse to crown your love and relationship. However, deciding what to go for might be difficult when you have many options. Many couples pick Hawaii because of the fascinating beaches, but that is not always suitable for everyone – especially if you have a limited budget. If you want to skip out on all the exhausting planning (and save some coin while you are at it!), a Honolulu courthouse wedding might be perfect for you! 

So, what exactly should you choose for your wedding or elopement in Hawaii? Are you unsure of what would fit your story best? Don’t worry. As always, we are here to guide you and help you make your final decision. 

honolulu courthouse wedding or beach wedding

Courthouse vs. Beach Wedding: What to Choose?

If you have decided to get married in Hawaii, you should look into all your options. You have an abundance of locations at your disposal, but it is crucial to consider several factors that will help you decide. 

For instance, going to a Honolulu beach wedding can be a great pick. First, this city is known for its gorgeous and paradise-like beaches. So, you will have the chance to pick the backdrop and the surroundings you have always imagined. 

Second, a beach wedding location is a great option for both large and small weddings. Whether you have a lot of guests or a small circle, you can find the spot that suits you easily. Lastly, you can design the ceremony of your dreams by picking a suitable wedding officiant for your union. 

On the other hand, Honolulu courthouse weddings are excellent for couples who want to get married in a spectacular place without breaking the bank. Plus, it is the ideal type of wedding for newlyweds who want their privacy and do not want many people present at their ceremony. 

Why Have Honolulu Courthouse Weddings Become So Popular? 

So, why go for a Honolulu courthouse wedding?

For one, it is a simple and stress-free way to tie the knot without the fuss of planning a traditional ceremony. You will not have to worry about booking venues, coordinating caterers, or managing guest lists – just focus on celebrating your love in a beautiful setting. 

Plus, Hawaii is full of stunning backdrops, from famous beaches like Waikiki to breathtaking waterfalls and gardens, allowing you to pick a spot that reflects your dream wedding. This means that you can pick whatever you want to commemorate your big moments. You do not need to have the ceremony in a special venue or beach to enjoy these exotic surroundings. 

Another great benefit of a Honolulu courthouse wedding is that it is usually much more affordable than a big, elaborate celebration. This means you can save some money to spend on fun experiences during your time on the islands. You also have the flexibility to choose any date that works for you without stressing over seasonal restrictions or busy venues. 

So, if you want a personal and relaxed way to say “I do” amid Hawaii’s stunning scenery, a Honolulu civil wedding could be just the thing. It is no wonder that so many people choose this type of union these days! 

Where to Celebrate Your Courthouse Marriage in Hawaii? 

If you are considering a Honolulu courthouse wedding, a minister can help you choose great spots for your celebration. This tropical paradise is full of fascinating landscapes, and you will easily find what you are looking for for your bridal backdrop. 

Hawaii boasts several beautiful courthouses that can serve as a flawless backdrop for your big day. Whether you picture saying your vows surrounded by lush greenery, gazing out at the sparkling Pacific Ocean, or enjoying the soft sand of a beach ceremony, this place truly has it all. Whichever courthouse location you pick, you can count on it being a day to remember, filled with the island’s incredible beauty and that warm aloha spirit!

Choosing an Officiant for Your Courthouse Wedding in Honolulu 

When planning a Honolulu courthouse wedding, one of the key choices you will face is hiring an officiant or going with a courthouse official. Each option has its perks and things to think about. 

A Hawaii wedding officiant is usually a professional who specializes in creating personalized ceremonies. They can help create an experience that truly reflects your values and beliefs, and they often work with couples to customize vows and include any cultural or religious traditions.

On the other hand, a justice of the peace is a government official who can perform civil marriage ceremonies. Typically found at local courthouses, they offer straightforward and legally recognized ceremonies, which are great for couples looking for something low-key or intimate in a courthouse setting. 

When picking between an officiant or a justice of the peace, it is essential to think about their availability, cost, experience, and how well you will connect with them. Meeting potential officiants beforehand can give you a good sense of their professionalism and communication style, ensuring they can meet your needs. 

However, a Hawaii wedding officiant can make your ceremony authentic. This professional has different ways of officiating a glorious union, so if you decide to pick this kind of person for your wedding, count on a genuinely memorable event. 

honolulu courthouse wedding

The Bottom Line

Nowadays, couples are quite open to the idea of having a Honolulu courthouse wedding. Yes, beach celebrations are beautiful, but they can be somewhat difficult to plan, especially if you are doing it from far away. Getting married in a courthouse skips out on all of this, so you can fully immerse yourself in the moment you have been waiting for ages – tying the knot with your loved one!
If you are ready to discuss details about your Hawaiian wedding, feel free to fill out our contact page. For more details on celebrations in Hawaii, check out our Locations and Services pages. Need more inspo? Check out our blog section!

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