Wedding At Hale Wailele On The Big Island Of Hawaii
A Dreamy Intimate Wedding in South Kona
Nestled in the lush, tropical paradise of South Kona, Hugo and Ruth’s intimate wedding was a beautiful fusion of simplicity and elegance. With roughly 30 of their closest friends and family, this wedding felt deeply personal, as though every moment was crafted just for them.
The couple chose a stunning residential venue in Captain Cook, South Kona, a place surrounded by vibrant jungle and serene mountain views. The cool, breezy weather and partly cloudy sky created the perfect setting for an outdoor celebration. Although this specific venue is now closed, intimate home venues like these offer an unmatched experience, far more personal than large resort weddings. For couples dreaming of a similar wedding, I highly recommend checking out Airbnb or VRBO to find unique and intimate homes that double as wedding venues. These smaller, private settings create an unforgettable atmosphere, where your wedding is just about you and your loved ones—without the distractions of a busy resort.
For more ideas on venues, take a look at my blog about some of the best Big Island wedding venues here.
The day began with getting ready shots, capturing those natural, candid moments as Hugo and Ruth prepared for their big day. What struck me most was how calm and connected they were—no stress, no rush, just pure joy in being with each other and their closest friends. Their personalities shone through, with a quiet confidence and fun-loving energy that set the tone for the day.
One of the standout moments for me was photographing the couple at the venue’s infinity pool. With the backdrop of the vast South Kona coastline, I was able to capture a reflection of them in the still water—a shot that has become one of my all-time favorites. It was the kind of magical moment that reminds me why I love shooting intimate weddings.
After the ceremony, we hopped onto the farm’s UTV and made our way up through the property to a secluded spot in the jungle. It was just the three of us—Hugo, Ruth, and myself—walking through the lush greenery with the sun filtering through the trees. These private moments gave them a chance to take it all in: the vows they had just exchanged, the significance of the day. I directed them with simple prompts, but their natural chemistry took over, making the whole session feel effortless.
If you’re considering a wedding on the Big Island and are curious about what other scenic locations might inspire your day, explore some of my favorite photography spots here.
What made this wedding truly special was the palpable sense of friendship between Hugo, Ruth, and their guests. It felt like a celebration among lifelong friends, with laughter and love flowing throughout the day. While the wedding was elegant and understated, the joy shared by everyone there gave it a richness that no amount of elaborate décor could replicate.
Hugo and Ruth’s intimate, relaxed style was the perfect match for the vibe of the venue, and it’s a reminder that when planning a destination wedding, the experience often matters more than the size of the guest list or grandeur of the location.
*If you're considering a smaller, more intimate wedding, check out my thoughts on the signature wedding experience I offer here.
While many couples opt for resort-style venues in Hawaii, there’s something incredibly special about choosing a private residence for your wedding day. Venues like this offer privacy, intimacy, and a sense of home, where the only people sharing your day are your closest friends, family, and trusted vendors. I love the chance to step away with the couple during the day, offering them a quiet moment to reflect on their wedding in a secluded area—something that’s much easier to do in these private spaces.
If you’re inspired by Hugo and Ruth’s wedding, inquire about planning your own unique and intimate day HERE!
Hugo and Ruth’s wedding was a reminder of how beautiful, simple, and meaningful an intimate wedding can be. From the reflective infinity pool shots to the golden jungle light, everything about this day felt personal and full of love. Whether you’re planning your wedding on the Big Island or considering a destination wedding in another tropical paradise, there are countless opportunities to create a day that’s both elegant and unforgettable.
For more ideas and inspiration on planning a wedding in Hawaii, check out Go Hawaii’s Big Island Guide.
