At Sky and Reef Photography, we focus on getting a mix of both candids and posed. We are about having fun and getting those once-in-a-lifetime shots that last a lifetime. Our photos are bright, vivid, true to life color, which showcases Hawaii's natural beauty. Ultimately, I am here to make you look Damn good in your photographs.
A sandy shore, the soothing sounds of the waves, and the azure sea – this was the tropical setting at Sergiu and Donna’s beautiful elopement wedding in Hawaii. So tropical, right? Wait till you see the photos! I love shooting elopements! They are fun, short, and they are so heartwarmingly intimate! And Sergiu and Donna’s was no different!
With just the two of them (and the officiant and I) in attendance, the ceremony felt just right. And guess what? These two came to get married in Hawaii all the way from Romania! Which, to be honest, I think was a great choice, of course. Read on to find out more about what made this couple choose an elopement over a grand wedding, and in the process, you can also take a look at some of the photos I took.
Sergiu and Donna shared the same pain as many other couples who had to cut short their guest lists due to the COVID pandemic. Initially, they planned on having a large wedding in Romania, their home, but later had to decide otherwise. Finally, they listened to the voice in their hearts and decided to have an elopement, which brought them to the Aloha state.
Hawaii is not just a location; it is a whole different world. Whether you are a family of four or a couple, in my opinion, it is an experience (or adventure) waiting to be explored! And what better place for an elopement than in the pristine beaches of Hawaii. For me, that look on my couples’ faces when they arrive at the chosen venue will always remain priceless. Hawaii offers such diverse and stunning locations that are not just perfect for elopements, weddings, or engagements, but it’s a treat for me as a photographer too!
Sergiu and Donna exchanged rings, shared vows, and got married – all with the sound of the clear blue waves crashing in the backdrop. It indeed felt no less than like a scene from a tropical movie. As the day unfolded, the couple could not stop laughing, jumping, splashing water at each other, and getting sandy – making the most of their special day on the island. It was fun watching them make each other laugh and enjoy this day with just each other’s company.
Beaches sure are a beauty from the shore, but they narrate a whole different story when put into perspective from a bird’s-eye view. Some of my favorite photographs from this elopement were when my couple laid down on the shore, and I took some drone shots from above. The setting simply looks heavenly!
Elopements have a close and intimate essence and, at the same time, a sense of wildness and freedom to them. And I always find myself drawn towards photographing them, making elopements a big part of why I love doing what I do. So thank you, Sergiu and Donna, for letting me be a part of your special day! And a big thank you for gifting me those incredibly delicious Romanian candies too! They vanished in no time. It was a joy photographing you guys, and I wish you both a very happy married life together!
Here’s a small note of gratitude that Sergiu and Donna left behind:
“Tara is such a talented photographer and great to work with! We adored working with her. Her quality of work is outstanding and speaks for itself. She meticulously captures the perfect angles and lighting while still making you genuinely smile the entire time. She can do it all! I totally recommend her, and I promise you, you won’t regret it.” – Sergiu & Donna
Loved reading about Sergiu and Donna’s elopement in Hawaii? Here are some other cheerful elopement stories from the vault! If you have any queries or want to connect with me, you can write to me at skyandreefphotography@gmail.com or call at 808-688-3396. To check availability for a particular date, reach out to me by filling out this contact form. To follow more of my work, you can check out my Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.