AMOUR...an Elopement on the South Shores of Maui

Phillipe, Delphine and Diana Eden made the long journey across the globe from Marsielle, France to Maui, Hawaii. They all loved being under the warm golden sun that is found in Hawaii and the family expressed that there was something special in the breezes on Maui’s south facing shores. I told them it was the Aloha Spirit that can still be felt when everyone lands on the island of Maui.

Delphine & Phillipe originally wanted a ceremony in French and Susan with Aloha Weddings was dong her best to accommodate them. The couple settled on the soft, gentle delivery of Wai, an officiant & celebrant, who resides on Maui. Wai customized the ceremony to suit the couple’s cultural difference and it was a touching time for us all. The Maui backdrop always makes for gorgeous photos. The family had a sweet dynamic between them that can be seen in every photo. Merci to Delphine, Phillipe & Diana Eden for playing on Po’olenalena Beach with me under the Maui golden light. It was an unforgettable time.

A Magical Wedding on 11/11/24 at 11:11a.m.

I love when there is some magic and intention behind a wedding day. Charles and Maya planned, with Ayesha of Merry Maui Weddings, a detailed and profoundMaui elopement ceremony that was held at DT Fleming Beach on 11/11/24 at 11:11a.m. The bride & groom were dressed so elegantly and the small group that made up the supporting team surrounded Charles & Maya as they exchanged their vows, rings and a great kiss of course!!!

These two undoubtedly had a love for one another that was not taken for granted in anyway. Charles just adores Maya to the moon and back. It was an honor to be a part of their ceremony and Maya get the Wedding Dress of the Year award in my book!!! So inspiring…

Congratulations and a lifetime of happiness to you both!

The Rizo Family Celebrates at Ironwood's Beach

The Rizo Family made a monumental journey to Maui… all 16 of them… and there were plenty of other family members that could not join… What was the occasion you ask?? Their parents 50th wedding anniversary!!! It is rare to see this kind of martial commitment especially when its celebrated by your loving daughters & their children surrounding the lovely couple.

Rosa (the eldest daughter of her parents) reached out to me and we agreed that a sunrise portrait time would be the best as they were all (mostly) early risers. We met at Ironwood’s Beach which is known for its pastel morning hues and stunning teals ocean colors during sunrise. We did all of the combinations you could dream of. I have to say the children made my day with the respect and love they all showered onto their parents and grandparents.

Thank you Rizo Family for having me that lovely morning. It was an honor to celebrate your parents EPIC 50th anniversary and meet all of you.

Love Always, Desi

A South Side Wedding packed with Love

Steven & Angelica hopped off the cruise ship when it docked on Maui to exchange their wedding vows. Their close friends & family were all able to join on that lovely afternoon at White Rock Beach. Angelica made sure the details were included that she wanted and the touches were worth it. Susan of Aloha Wedding Planning pulled all of the details together and Wai was the day of coordinator. Together those two deliverd a smooth experience for the Bride & Groom and all of the guests. There was an amazing musician and hula dancer woven into their ceremony. Rev. Kuya led their vows with lots of love & laughter. The group held a nice space and were blown away by the sunset that afternoon. I worked along side Brian with videography and we magically got through all of the shot list just as the sun dropped over the ocean. A huge congratulations to Steven & Angelica. I hope to see you all again on the beaches of Maui someday celebrating countless anniversaries to come.

A Magical Maternity Afternoon on Maui's North Shore

Kevin and Melissa are a beloved Maui couple and it was an honor to photograph this very special time for them. Melissa is an incredible artist and her murals are sprinkled throughout the island. She shared with me that she is expecting twins so we hit the beach while she is still feeling light on her feet. We all adore the North Shore as these are the beaches where locals gather for sunset sessions. We did see folks that we know along the way and I can’t believe how gorgeous the colors were that afternoon. Much love to you both and I will be anxiously waiting to meet your lil angels.

A Surprise Proposal on the South Side of Maui

When Eric reached out to plan a surprise proposal, I was all in on making this happen for him and the family. We opted for Kealia Boardwalk as this stretch of beach is stunning and made for the perfect backdrop to ask the Big Question. We booked this as a family portrait session and worked in the surprise proposal as the couple was surrounded by their children and parents. It was such a great moment for us all. If you are thinking about proposing on the gorgeous island of Maui, let me know…. I’d love to give you the support you need.

A Dreamy Couple at White Rock Beach

Franco & Daniella reached out for a simple mini session. Sometimes 30 minutes is all you need and I’m happy to accommodate! We met at the beautiful White Rock Beach and had the most epic lighting that afternoon. I was able to get a Lei Po’o for Daniella to keep her hair out of her face and add the perfect Hawaiian touch. Their energy together was so tender as they both were quite shy. The photos are so stunning that I just have to share!! Enjoy and thank you Franco & Daniella for being willing to make all of these memories happen.

Family Fun at Sunrise

I love getting up and watching the sunrise. The pastel colors against the ocean backdrop on Maui is breathtaking. I know getting up early isn’t for everyone but to make an exception and see it for yourself is an unforgettable experience. This sweet family got up early and met me at White Rock Beach in Wailea. We played all around and because of a gentle sprinkle that had happened on the morning, we had the beach to ourselves. Enjoy these moments with me and let me know if you want a sunrise session soon.