PLANNING TIPS
Congratulations on your decision to marry! We know that planning the wedding you've always dreamed of requires organization and careful attention to detail. To assist you, Hawaii Bride & Groom has compiled this on-line guide to wedding planning. More information is available in every issue of Hawaii Bride & Groom. Subscribe Now!
SETTING YOUR WEDDING BUDGET
Once you have decided the style of wedding you want, it is time to establish a budget. A budget will help you allocate funds, make realistic choices and stay organized. When planning your wedding budget, begin by asking yourself "How much can we afford?" Who pay's for what? Today there are no absolute rules. It is now common for both the bride and groom's parents and / or the couple to share expenses. Download a copy of the wedding worksheet in Adobe Acrobat format.
GETTING YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE
The Hawaii State Department of Health requires that the prospective bride and groom go together to the marriage license office to file an application. A $60 cash fee is required, along with a valid driver's license, a picture I.D or a passport. The marriage license is valid for 30 days. The ceremony must be performed by an officiate licensed by the State of Hawaii. The legal marrying age in Hawaii is 18 years old.
Hawaii State Department of Health
1250 Punchbowl Street
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Oahu - Recorded Message (808) 586-4545
Oahu -For an Agent (808) 586-4544
Hawaii ( Big Island) (808) 974-6008
Kauai (808) 241-3498
Maui (808) 984-8210
Molokai (808) 553-3663
Lanai (808) 565-6411
For A Pamphlet Entitled "Getting Married", Published By The State of Hawaii, write to:
State Department of Health
Marriage License Office
P.O. Box 3378
Honolulu, Hawaii 96801
(808) 586-4544
Marriage License Applications Now On-Line
The State of Hawaii has a Marriage License Application that can be downloaded, printed and filled out in advance.
The website address is www.hawaii.gov/doh/records (Adobe Acrobat required)
SELECTING YOUR WEDDING PARTY
When deciding who to ask to be a part of your wedding, use discretion. Your first consideration should be your budget - the more attendants you have will usually result in additional expenses. In Hawaii, the bride usually pays for her attendants dresses. The maid of honor and best man will have many duties, so make sure they are responsible and organized.
YOUR MASTER OF CEREMONIES
Selecting the right person to be Master of Ceremonies at your reception is one of the most important decisions you will make. That person should be experienced at public speaking, organized and reliable. A Master of Ceremonies checklist of duties is available in every issue of Hawaii Bride & Groom. Subscribe Now!
FOR THE GROOM
With all the excitement of wedding planning, it may seem that all the attention is focused on the bride. Remember that on your wedding day, you will also be in the spotlight. To ensure that you will look your best, choose your wedding attire carefully and seek the guidance of the professionals.
TUXEDO / FORMAL WEAR
The appropriate wedding attire for today's groom allows for more variety and personal style, especially in Hawaii. Men's formalwear may be purchased or rented. When renting a tuxedo, you should visit the store at least three months before the ceremony to assure that the style you choose will be available.
YOUR BACHELOR PARTY
It's a tradition in Hawaii to celebrate those final days of single life with a gathering of friends. Although it was once customary to have this party the night before the wedding; that tradition is fading. The best man usually makes the arrangements, although there is nothing wrong with throwing your own. The guest list should include all male members of the wedding party, close friends and relatives. If alcohol is being served, make advance arrangements for safe transportation after the party.
MARRYING AGAIN
With second marriages amounting to over 38 percent of all marriages in Hawaii last year, many wedding traditions and customs are changing. Traditionally, when it is the bride's first and the groom's second, all aspects of the wedding remain traditional. When it is the bride's second, a semi-formal or informal wedding is chosen. The bride may wear white, but a veil, the symbol of virginity, should not be worn. A bouquet may be carried, but the bouquet and garter toss should be omitted. Toasting, cake cutting and the "first dance" are appropriate.