Jackie & Micah's Wedding at Hanalani Garden

Every wedding I capture holds a unique experience, filled with moments and sentiments that resonate deeply with the couple. However, some weddings stand out more than others—Micah and Jacqueline’s wedding was one of those days.

From the moment I arrived, it was clear how much thought and care had gone into every detail. From their carefully chosen venue to the personal touches that reflected their personalities, it was evident that this day was meant to be truly special. Their wedding was not only a celebration of their love, but also of their journey together, and the deep connection they share with their family and friends.

In this blog, I’m excited to share the special moments that made their wedding unforgettable and how their story impacted me both as a photographer and storyteller.

A Thoughtful Wedding at Hanalani Gardens

Micah and Jacqueline chose to hold their wedding at Hanalani Gardens, a serene and intimate venue on the southwest side of Oahu, Hawaii. Known for its lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere, Hanalani Gardens is a hidden gem surrounded by a tranquil blue lagoon. At the heart of the garden sits the Hanalani Chapel, a small and intimate space where couples can exchange vows surrounded by nature’s beauty.

The location of their wedding was particularly meaningful to them. Both Micah and Jacqueline share a strong connection to the military, and they intentionally selected this venue due to its proximity to a nearby military base. This was a nod to their shared history and respect for the roots that shaped them. In fact, one special request they had was to capture a plane flying overhead during the ceremony—an element that added a beautiful layer of symbolism to their day.

Personal Touches and Local Vendors

It was clear that Micah and Jacqueline’s wedding wasn’t just about celebrating their love for each other, but also honoring the love and support they received from their family, friends, and community. One of the most special things about their celebration was the way they supported their local wedding vendors. They chose to work with vendors from Hawaii who have been a part of their lives, reinforcing the importance of the people who have stood by them throughout their journey.

Additionally, Jacqueline and Micah’s wedding had many personalized elements that made it feel truly unique. Family friends performed a traditional hula dance during the cocktail hour, adding a special cultural touch to the celebration. Jacqueline, along with her close friends, also handpicked the florals for the wedding—arranging them into the bouquets, table settings, and even the drinks, making every detail a reflection of their personalities.

Capturing Candid Moments: A Documentary-Style Approach

One of the most memorable aspects of Micah and Jacqueline’s wedding was their desire to be fully present and enjoy the day without the pressure of posed photos. They chose not to have any formal portraits taken, instead trusting me to document their day in a documentary-style. This approach allowed me to capture authentic, candid moments as they unfolded naturally, which deeply resonated with me as a wedding photographer.

I’m drawn to capturing people in their most vulnerable and intimate moments—those fleeting expressions of joy, connection, and love. And with Micah and Jacqueline, their energy was palpable. It ebbed and flowed throughout the evening, peaking on the dance floor, where their love for each other radiated as they shared the excitement of the night with their friends and family.