How Much Does a Wedding in Hawaii Cost?
Planning a wedding in paradise is a dream come true—but what should you expect when budgeting for a wedding in Hawaii? The average cost of a wedding in Hawaii ranges from $25,000 to $45,000, depending on your guest count, venue, and vendor preferences. Below, I break down the typical expenses involved and share a few of my favorite venues and vendors that I’ve personally worked with as a Hawaii-based wedding photographer.
1. Venue and Accommodation
- Venue Rental: Costs range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the location and amenities.
- Accommodation: For couples and guests, hotel rates can vary from $200 to $500 per night, influenced by the island and season.
2. Catering and Beverages
- Catering: Expect to pay between $50 and $150 per person, depending on menu choices and service style.
- Beverages: An open bar or specialty cocktails can add $20 to $50 per person to your budget.
3. Photography and Videography
- Photography: Packages typically range from $2,000 to $6,000, based on the photographer’s experience and coverage duration.
- Videography: Adding a videographer can cost an additional $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the package.
4. Attire and Accessories
- Wedding Attire: The average cost for wedding attire, including dress and suit, is around $2,000.
- Accessories: Budget an additional $500 to $1,000 for shoes, jewelry, and other accessories.
5. Entertainment and Music
- Live Band or DJ: Hiring entertainment can range from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the type and duration.
6. Flowers and Decorations
- Floral Arrangements: Expect to spend between $2,000 and $5,000 on bouquets, centerpieces, and other floral decorations.
- Decor: Additional decorations can add $1,000 to $3,000 to your budget.
7. Planning and Coordination
- Wedding Planner: Hiring a planner can cost between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on the level of service.
Wedding Venues in Hawaii
- Cafe Julia – Located in the heart of downtown Honolulu, Cafe Julia feels like a charming French villa with lush courtyards and elegant architecture. A beautiful and romantic setting for your ceremony and reception.
Visit Cafe Julia - Kualoa Ranch – Paliku Gardens – With panoramic views of the ocean and Kaneohe Bay framed by the majestic Koʻolau Mountains, Paliku Gardens at Kualoa Ranch offers a truly unforgettable outdoor wedding experience. It’s one of the most scenic and serene spots on Oʻahu.
Visit Kualoa Ranch – Paliku Gardens - Ko’olau Ballrooms – Nestled against the Koʻolau mountain range, this venue offers breathtaking views and a spacious ballroom—great for larger weddings.
Visit Ko’olau Ballrooms
Catering Options
- Keneke’s – Keneke’s offers delicious local-style catering with generous portions and lots of aloha. Their BBQ and Hawaiian-style food are always a hit at weddings.
View Keneke’s Catering - Cafe Julia – Besides being a stunning venue, Cafe Julia also provides in-house catering with a versatile menu full of island-inspired favorites.
View Cafe Julia Catering
Photography and Videography
- Kpix Photography – That’s me! I specialize in documenting authentic love stories in Hawaii and beyond. My goal is to capture your day with joy, emotion, and timeless imagery.
View My Portfolio - Mark Arista – Mark brings a cinematic flair to wedding videography, with heartfelt storytelling and crisp visuals. A joy to collaborate with.
Visit Mark Arista - Small Hour Films – Specializing in intimate, emotional wedding films, Small Hour Films brings your wedding day to life with style and sincerity.
Visit Small Hour Films
Entertainment and Music
- Spectrum Entertainment – Spectrum is always reliable and brings high-energy entertainment to every event. Their team makes sure everyone is dancing and having fun.
Visit Spectrum Entertainment - DJ Kevo – DJ Kevo from Bliss Hawaii knows how to read the room and keep the energy going. Always professional, fun, and one of my go-to DJs in Hawaii.
Follow DJ Kevo on Instagram
Wedding Planners and Coordinators
- Aloha Bridal Connections – This planning team offers a seamless and stress-free experience. They’re passionate about helping you enjoy every moment.
Visit Aloha Bridal Connections - Esselle Weddings – A boutique wedding planning company with a creative and elegant approach. Always a pleasure working alongside their team.
Visit Esselle Weddings - IDoWeddings – With a dedicated team of professionals, IDoWeddings ensures every detail is handled with care and aloha.
Visit IDoWeddings
From finding the perfect venue to booking vendors that match your vision, planning a Hawaii wedding is an exciting journey. Whether you’re dreaming of a beach ceremony or a grand ballroom celebration, there are beautiful options available at every price point. For more wedding planning inspiration and tips, check out my wedding photography tips or get in touch with me to discuss how I can help you document your day.