A Dream Wedding Maui | Stress-Free Wedding Planning, Destination Weddings, Personalizing Your Wedding

In this episode, I’m sharing why full-service wedding planning is one of the best investments you can make when planning a destination wedding in Maui. After helping thousands of couples get married here, I’ve seen firsthand how full planning transforms the experience from stressful and overwhelming to calm, organized, and truly enjoyable. I’m pulling back the curtain on what really happens behind the scenes and why having a full-service planner saves you time, money, and emotional energy. From eliminating costly mistakes to managing vendor communication to creating a proven planning system that keeps everything running smoothly, full-service planning is designed to protect your peace throughout the entire journey. In this episode, I cover: Why “you don’t know what you don’t know” is often the biggest challenge for couples planning on their own How full-service planning prevents last-minute problems like missing florals or overlooked fees Why Maui vendors typically respond faster to planners and how that benefits your experience How a well-refined planning system can save you over 300 hours of work What I look for in contracts, timelines, and budgets to avoid surprises Why full-service clients enjoy a more peaceful engagement and a calm, grounded wedding day I also share real stories from recent weddings, including catching missing staffing fees in a venue contract, helping a couple navigate a forgotten floral order, and the behind-the-scenes work my team does to constantly improve our planning process. If you’re wondering whether full-service planning is worth it, this episode will give you a clear understanding of what you receive, how it supports your vision, and why the long-term value goes far beyond logistics. Resources Mentioned: Visit adreamwedding.net to learn more about our planning packages Follow me on Instagram @adreamweddingmaui Book a consultation through my website or message me on Instagram If you’re dreaming of a beautiful, effortless, and joy-filled Maui destination wedding, I would love to support you on your planning journey.

As the holidays roll in this year, I’ve been feeling something I know many of you can relate to — that sense of being on a hamster wheel of expectations. Between the shopping, events, travel, traditions, pressure to “make it magical,” and worrying what everyone thinks… it’s so easy to lose sight of what the holidays are really about. And you know what? The same thing happens with weddings. In this deeply personal episode, I share the emotional moment I experienced last Christmas — and the surprising clarity that came when my family and I talked honestly about what truly matters to us this season. Spoiler: we’re not scaling back everything… we’re actually going bigger on what brings us joy and letting go of the rest. Yes, tacos for Christmas dinner and yes… hiring a DJ for our house party! This realization ties beautifully into how I encourage my couples to plan their weddings: Focus on what matters most. Let go of the pressure. Create a celebration that feels like YOU. If you’re planning a destination wedding, feeling overwhelmed by decisions, or struggling with expectations from family, friends, or social media — this episode will help you breathe again. I’m giving you the same framework my family used: ✨ Identify your non-negotiables ✨ Invest your time, energy, and budget in what lights you up ✨ Release the traditions and expectations that don’t serve you ✨ Create a wedding experience that fills you with joy — not stress Whether your dream wedding includes a packed dance floor, stunning florals, intimate moments with your closest people, or a simple, unfussy menu… you deserve a celebration that reflects your values and vision. Inside the episode, you’ll hear: • Why holiday overwhelm mirrors wedding overwhelm • The emotional moment that shifted how I’m approaching this season • What my family chose as our “non-negotiable” — and what we’re letting go • How to identify your wedding priorities • Why you don’t need to impress anyone or follow traditions that don’t fit • How to plan a wedding that feels authentic, intentional, and meaningful • Three questions every couple should ask before (and during!) wedding planning If you’ve ever wondered how to stay grounded, connected, and true to yourselves during the wedding planning process — this one’s for you. Resources Mentioned: Follow me on Instagram: @adreamweddingmaui Learn more about planning your Maui wedding: adreamwedding.net If this episode resonates with you, please share it with an engaged friend or leave a review — it means the world and helps more couples plan their dream wedding with ease and intention.  

In this episode of Dream Wedding Maui, I sit down with my sweet bride Danyelle to relive her stunning summer wedding at Olowalu Plantation House. From her 12-year love story with Scott to her vibrant floral design and heart-melting father-of-the-bride moment, this conversation is packed with warmth, laughter, and inspiration. Danyelle shares what it was like planning a destination wedding on Maui, how she personalized her design with thoughtful touches (including a basketball-bracket-style seating chart!), and the lessons she learned along the way. We also chat about: 💍 The moment she knew Olowalu Plantation House was “the one” 🌸 Designing her dream wedding with Rochelle from Friday Flowers Every Day 🎨 Infusing personality into elegant, tropical design 🎥 Why trusting your planner makes all the difference in choosing vendors 💖 The emotional surprises from her husband that brought everyone to tears Plus, I include a quick note about vendor professionalism and why it’s so important to work with a planner you trust before booking any vendors — a small decision that makes a huge impact on your wedding-day experience. Whether you’re planning your own Maui destination wedding or just love hearing real love stories, this episode will give you all the island wedding feels. 🌺

Getting married in Hawaii? 🌴 In this episode of Dream Wedding Maui, I’m sharing exactly what you need to know to make your marriage legal in paradise. I’ll walk you through how to apply for your Hawaii marriage license, what to bring to your appointment, how long it takes to receive your official marriage certificate, and what to do if you’re bringing your own officiant from the mainland. Here’s what I cover: 💍 Who can legally get married in Hawaii (no residency required!) 📝 How to apply online for your marriage license before you arrive 📅 When and where to meet with a licensed agent on Maui 💌 How long it takes to receive your certified marriage certificate 🙌 What to do if your officiant is a friend or pastor from the mainland 🌺 Bonus: Answers to the most common questions I get — from symbolic ceremonies to witnesses and same-day weddings. Whether you’re planning a simple beach elopement or a full celebration with family and friends, this step-by-step guide will help you feel confident that your wedding will be beautiful, stress-free, and legally official. 💕 Connect with Me: 🌐 @adreamweddingmaui 💌 Book your complimentary consultation today!

In this week’s episode, I chat with Corissa, who planned her stunning Olowalu Plantation House wedding all the way from Berlin! From an intimate welcome party at Hotel Wailea’s Birdcage Bar to a whale watch with Trilogy and a heartfelt ceremony surrounded by loved ones from around the world — Corissa’s Maui wedding was filled with creativity, connection, and emotion. We dive into her thoughtful design vision (inspired by volcanic tones and still-life art), her best advice for other destination couples, and how she and Jason navigated time zones, planning stress, and post-wedding blues with grace and humor. Whether you’re planning from afar or dreaming of Olowalu, this conversation is packed with inspiration and heart. ✨ In This Episode You’ll Hear: How Corissa and Jason planned their Maui wedding while living in Berlin The story behind their elegant, art-inspired design at Olowalu Plantation House Why they chose a long engagement and how it helped them stay grounded The vendors that brought their vision to life — from Maui Bars to Noni from Maui Palm Tree Floral Honest reflections on post-wedding emotions and the magic of slowing down to soak it all in Vendors Mentioned: Planner: A Dream Wedding Maui Venue: Olowalu Plantation House Florals: Maui Palm Tree Floral (Noni) Catering: Food for the Soul Bar Service: Maui Bars Rentals: Rio Event Design Transportation: Maui Tours & Transport Photography: Jacqueline Locke Videography: Stephan Böker DJ: Jesse with Maui DJ Services 🌺 Connect with Us: Visit adreamwedding.net for Maui wedding inspiration and planning resources. Follow along on Instagram: @adreamweddingmaui

Remember when every couple wanted a massive, super-detailed wedding checklist? The longer, the better? Well… those days are gone — and for good reason. In this episode of A Dream Wedding Maui, Ashley shares how her approach to wedding planning checklists has completely evolved over the years. What used to be hundreds of detailed tasks has now become a simple, streamlined, effortless process — because that’s what modern couples truly want. Ashley dives into: 💡 Why ultra-detailed checklists can actually overwhelm couples instead of helping them 🌺 How her team redesigned their planning system into easy, stress-free phases 🗓️ The five signature planning phases — from vendor selection to go time ✨ Why “effortless” has become her signature word, not only for planning but in life and personal style 🤍 How simplicity builds trust and gives couples more space to enjoy their engagement If you’ve ever felt buried under a never-ending wedding to-do list, this episode will feel like a breath of fresh Maui air. 🌴 Connect with Ashley: Website: adreamwedding.net Instagram: @adreamweddingmaui

Your wedding day goes by in the blink of an eye—and after months (or years!) of planning, the best gift you can give yourself is the ability to be truly present. In this episode of Dream Wedding Maui, I’m sharing six powerful ways to slow down, soak in the magic, and create memories that last a lifetime. From handing off logistics to your planning team, to building intentional pauses, to anchoring your favorite moments—you’ll walk away with simple, heartfelt strategies to actually enjoy your wedding day instead of rushing through it. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about a perfectly executed timeline or the exact shade of blush in your florals—it’s about connection, gratitude, and love. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 🌸 Why “overplanning and then letting go” is the key to peace of mind 🌸 How to build intentional pauses that make the day feel less rushed 🌸 Why you should put your phone away (and who to give it to instead) 🌸 A simple gratitude practice to help you lock in memories 🌸 How to release perfectionism so you can focus on joy 🌸 The secret to anchoring memories you’ll treasure forever ✨ Whether you’re planning a beachside elopement or a grand oceanfront celebration, these tips will help you feel calm, present, and connected on your wedding day. 💌 Let’s Connect: Website: @adreamweddingmaui 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a new episode, and if this helped you, please leave a review or share with a friend who’s planning their big day!

Your wedding day will be unforgettable—but what if you could stretch that joy across an entire weekend? In today’s episode of the Dream Wedding Maui Podcast, Ashley shares how planning multi-day celebrations can transform your destination wedding into a full guest experience. Fresh off a three-day birthday celebration packed with unforgettable activities, Ashley shows how the same ideas can be reimagined for wedding weekends. From private luaus and canoe regattas to sandcastle competitions and sunset sails, discover creative ways to connect your guests, honor Hawaiian culture, and make memories that last a lifetime. What you’ll hear in this episode: Why wedding weekends create deeper connections with your guests How extra events allow us as planners to deliver even better service Unique activity ideas from a recent 3-day celebration, including: Private luau with music, hula, and cocktail competitions Canoe regatta with Hawaiian cultural experiences Garden lunch with a live art class and music Semi-private dinner at Nobu—perfect for a rehearsal dinner Sandcastle building competition on the beach BBQ lunch + sunset sail to wrap up the weekend How multi-day celebrations help guests from all over the world feel like family by the wedding day Options for full planning or à la carte event planning with A Dream Wedding Maui Links & Resources: 🌺 Learn more at @adreamweddingmaui

Hey friends, it’s Ashley! Today I’m diving into a problem that’s been growing in the wedding world lately — and especially here in Maui. And I’ll be honest…I’ve been part of it, too. It’s Amazon. What used to be one or two simple boxes from couples — a card box, some cocktail napkins, a few favors — has now turned into my team feeling like an Amazon fulfillment center. Dozens of boxes filled with candles, signage, chargers, and fragile glass arrive at venues, leaving us knee-deep in bubble wrap instead of where I want to be: by your side on the wedding day. In this episode, I’m sharing: ✨ The hidden costs of ordering décor from Amazon (time, waste, and stress). ✨ Why cheap online finds rarely hold up — fragile glass, paper-thin napkins, chargers that chip after one use. ✨ The truth about live flame candles in Maui (and why LED is the way to go). ✨ The new boundaries I’m setting so I can serve my couples at the highest level. At the end of the day, I want to be fully present with my clients, not unboxing Amazon shipments. Let’s rethink how we approach these wedding details and choose options that are beautiful, practical, and kind to Maui. 🌺 Find me at @adreamweddingmaui.

Most couples think the first step in planning a wedding is locking in the venue. But here’s the truth: booking your venue first is actually step two. In this episode of A Dream Wedding Maui Podcast, I’m sharing why hiring your wedding planner before you choose your venue can save you time, money, and stress — and make the entire experience so much more enjoyable. Fresh from a full day of site inspections with one of my couples, I’ll walk you through: The common pitfalls couples face when booking a venue on their own. How my insider knowledge and venue relationships streamline the process. Why efficiency matters: how one couple planned on multiple days of site tours, but with my connections, we knocked it all out in a single day. The hidden benefits of site inspections — building trust, setting priorities, and laying the foundation for a great planning relationship. If you’re dreaming of a Maui wedding or just starting your venue search, this episode will give you the clarity to start planning in the right order. Resources & Links: Learn more at adreamwedding.net Follow along on Instagram: @adreamweddingmaui

In today’s episode of Dream Wedding Maui, I’m sharing how the book Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara has inspired me—and how it perfectly translates into the way we serve our couples. Unreasonable hospitality isn’t just about doing a good job. It’s about surprising and delighting people in deeply personal ways—in the small details, the big gestures, and the quiet moments that aren’t written on the timeline. I’ll share three real stories from weddings we’ve planned: The last-minute LED sparklers that almost didn’t arrive—and how we made sure every guest had one. A groom’s pet peeve about lighting—and the lengths we went to dim a neon sign so the dance floor felt just right. The time I reconstructed a bride’s dress minutes before her first look—because she deserved to feel radiant and confident walking toward her groom. I’ll also open up about what this means as our business grows: my commitment to making sure every couple feels cared for, seen, and celebrated through this level of above-and-beyond service. Because to us, wedding planning isn’t just about logistics—it’s about memory-making. ✨ Resources & Links Learn more: @adreamweddingmaui If this episode resonates with you, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a couple who wants a wedding that’s not just beautiful—but unforgettable.

Music is one of the most powerful parts of your wedding day. Long after the flowers fade and the cake is gone, the songs you choose will instantly transport you back to those unforgettable moments. In this episode of Dream Wedding Maui, I’m walking you through the top 10 songs every couple should select for their wedding day—from the processional and bridal entrance to the dance floor opener and the very last song of the night. You’ll learn: Which songs set the tone for your ceremony Fun options for cake cutting and parent dances Why your first dance song is often the most personal choice of all How to choose the perfect dance floor opener to get guests moving Tips for creating a Spotify playlist, “must play” list, and “do not play” list for your DJ Whether you’re dreaming of a Hawaiian-inspired ceremony, a classic ballroom celebration, or a fun beach bash, music will help define the experience and create lasting memories for you and your guests. ✨ Resources & Links Book a complimentary consultation: @adreamweddingmaui If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another couple planning their big day.

Micro weddings are having a moment—and I am here for it! In this episode of Dream Wedding Maui, I’m sharing all about Sarah and Aaron’s beautiful and intimate wedding at the Sheraton’s hidden gem: the Ali‘i Suite. From a sunset ceremony on a private lawn to a relaxed dinner on the lanai with their closest people, this day was low-stress, high-style, and absolutely unforgettable. Tune in to hear: What really defines a “micro wedding” (hint: it’s not just about the guest count) Why I love planning these stress-free, connection-filled celebrations A behind-the-scenes look at Sarah and Aaron’s wedding day flow My favorite Maui venues for micro weddings (including secret spots you might not know!) Tips for keeping your guest list tight—and why that matters with small venues How to make a micro wedding feel just as luxurious and meaningful as a big one Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate gathering or just want more quality time with your guests, this episode will inspire you to think small—in the best way. 🔗 Links & Resources: → Learn more at @adreamweddingmaui → Ready to plan your Maui micro wedding? Book a free consult 🌺 Let’s Make Your Wedding Feel Like You Whether your celebration is 15 guests or 150, we’ll help you design a day that feels effortless, elegant, and full of aloha. Subscribe for weekly planning tips and inspiration!

📋 Episode Description (Show Notes): Are timeless wedding styles making a comeback? I think so—and Savannah and Danny’s stunning celebration at Sugar Beach is proof! In this episode of Dream Wedding Maui, I’m sharing all the beautiful details from one of our most elegant events to date. From a luxurious white and green floral palette to twinkle-lit chiffon ceiling draping, custom sweetheart table setups, and a heart-shaped Aloha marquee sign—this wedding was the perfect blend of sophistication, romance, and island charm. If you’ve been dreaming of a classic wedding design that still feels warm and personal, this one’s for you. 💡 What You’ll Hear About: Why classic white and green weddings are trending again How we brought Savannah & Danny’s vision to life at Sugar Beach Floral highlights (hello, white phalaenopsis orchids!) How to dress up the Sugar Beach space with lighting and thoughtful design The power of one inspo photo in creating a jaw-dropping event Why Sugar Beach is a top pick for formal or elegant Maui weddings The magic of surprise fire knife dancers (always a hit!) 🔗 Links & Resources: → Browse more real weddings at @adreamweddingmaui → Ready to chat? Book a free consult 🌺 Love This Look? Let’s Plan Yours. Whether you’re drawn to timeless elegance or bold tropical vibes, I’d love to help you bring your unique vision to life. Subscribe for more weekly inspiration—and don’t forget to trust the classics. 😉

📋 Episode Description (Podbean Show Notes): Not all vendors are created equal—and when it comes to planning a seamless Maui destination wedding, who you hire really matters. In this episode of Dream Wedding Maui, I’m sharing why our preferred vendor list is a total game changer for our clients. From florals to photography, DJs to dinner service, I break down how I personally vet each vendor we recommend—and why that list is actually quite small (for good reason!). I also share real stories of what can go wrong when couples go off-list—and what makes our vendor team such a dream to work with. If you're planning a wedding on Maui or anywhere, this is a must-listen before you start booking your vendors. 💡 What You’ll Learn: What a preferred vendor list actually is (and isn’t!) How I personally select and vet each vendor The difference between a smooth planning process and… well, chaos True stories that will make you want to trust the list Why assembling the right team is about more than just individual talent 🔗 Links + Resources: → Learn more at @adreamweddingmaui → Want to chat with me about your dream Maui wedding? Schedule a free consult 🌺 Let’s Stay Connected: Subscribe for weekly tips on planning an effortless destination wedding in paradise, and leave a review if you’re loving the show! Mahalo for listening and trusting us with your big day.

If you're planning a Maui destination wedding, you’ve probably wondered: Do I have to feed my wedding vendors? In this episode, Maui wedding planner Ashley Ulery shares her honest (and spicy!) take on vendor meals—what's expected, what’s reasonable, and what not to do. You’ll learn: What a vendor meal is and when it’s required The 4-hour rule every couple should know Why vendors should not eat when guests eat Whether it's ever okay for vendors to go through the buffet line The small gesture that vendors never forget Whether you’re a Maui bride, a groom, or just getting started with your wedding planning checklist, this episode will help you feel confident handling vendor meals the right way—with clarity, care, and a whole lot of aloha. Mentioned in this episode: Rule of thumb: Feed any vendor working 4+ hours Vendor meals don’t need to be fancy—just thoughtful and timely Why guest experience comes first How planners coordinate meal timing with caterers Why the phrase “Have you eaten?” means so much on a wedding day Connect with Ashley: 💻 Website: https://adreamwedding.net 📸 Instagram: @adreamweddingmaui Subscribe for more episodes on: ✔️ Maui wedding planning tips ✔️ Vendor selection ✔️ Destination wedding etiquette ✔️ Budgeting, timelines, and stress-free planning

🎧 Episode Summary: The big day is finally here — now what? In this episode, I’m walking you through exactly what to expect on your Maui wedding day, from your first cup of coffee to your last dance. We’ll cover how the morning unfolds, what hair and makeup really looks like, why pacing yourself matters, and why a private post-ceremony moment might be your new favorite wedding hack. Whether you’re a bride, groom, or guest-of-honor who just wants to feel calm and prepared, this is your behind-the-scenes look at how the day typically flows — plus a few tips to help time slow down just a bit. You’ll learn: 💄 When hair and makeup usually start (hint: it’s earlier than you think!) 🍓 Why hydration, food, and minimal alcohol are game changers 📸 The real reason you want to gather your flat lay items in advance 💍 Whether or not to do a first look — and why it’s okay to change your mind 🕊️ What happens behind the scenes before the ceremony 🥂 Why you might want a post-ceremony private moment 💃 And how to actually enjoy your cocktail hour and reception Mentioned in this episode: Hair & makeup day-of prep Flat lay photo tips Vow timing (spoiler: don’t wait until the day-of!) How your wedding planner runs the timeline so you don’t have to Let’s Connect: Ready to start planning your dream wedding in Maui? 🌴 Book a consultation: www.adreamwedding.net 📷 Follow along on Instagram: @adreamweddingmaui 💌 Don’t forget: Subscribe so you never miss an episode, and please leave a review if this helped you feel more prepared for your big day!  

After a whirlwind summer of family vacations and beautiful Maui weddings, I'm back—and full of fresh perspective. In this episode, I’m sharing surprising takeaways from our recent travels (yes, even Disneyland taught me something about weddings!). From the importance of a well-planned timeline to the emotional impact of how events begin and end, these reflections will help you think differently about your own wedding day. I also open up about how overwhelming travel can feel—and how that gave me new empathy for couples in the thick of planning. Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or an intimate elopement, this episode is packed with thoughtful insights to help you stay calm, intentional, and focused on what really matters. What You’ll Learn: Why the beginning and end of your event are the most memorable How Disney inspired me to rethink how we wrap up weddings The parallels between vacation overwhelm and wedding planning stress Why planning ahead creates more freedom (yes, I use Aisle Planner for vacations too) The value of taking intentional breaks during the planning process Links & Resources: Book a free consultation: adreamwedding.net Follow on Instagram: @adreamweddingmaui Let’s Connect: If you're getting married in Maui and looking for support, I’d love to meet you! Reach out anytime—DM me on Instagram or visit the website to get started.

In this heartfelt episode of A Dream Wedding Maui, I sit down with Kayla and Armando—an amazing couple who celebrated their dream wedding on Maui with a ceremony at Sacred Hearts Mission Church and an unforgettable reception at Olowalu Plantation House. Together, we reflect on the design-forward planning process, a week full of activities for their guests (including a catamaran sail, golf course welcome drinks, and a sunrise bike ride down Haleakalā!), and even a flower mishap that turned into a beautiful win thanks to communication and trust. We talk about: How they chose Maui and what made them fall in love with Olowalu Planning a destination wedding with full-service support Creating an elegant design that felt timeless and Hawaiian Why it's worth planning multiple events during your wedding week How vendor synergy and a solid planner made all the difference The unexpected moment when bouquets needed a redo—and how we fixed it fast! Vendors Mentioned: Venue: Olowalu Plantation House Ceremony Location: Sacred Hearts Mission Church Catering: Café O’Lei Catering Music: Marvin Tevaga Music Photography: Dmitri and Sandra Photography Videography: No Ka Oi Media Coconut Bar: The Catered Coconut Planning Tip: Always communicate with your planner if something isn’t right. We’d much rather know and fix it than miss the chance to make things right. Case in point: Kayla’s bridesmaid bouquets weren’t what she expected—but one phone call later, we turned the day around.  Favorite Moments: The catamaran snorkel sail Something blue welcome drinks at Ka‘anapali Golf Course A surprise welcome speech that brought guests to tears Their dreamy white orchid lei wall and satin-ribboned place cards Connect with us at adreamwedding.net Follow along on Instagram: @adreamweddingmaui Mahalo for tuning in! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with any couple dreaming of a Maui wedding.

While you're sipping champagne and enjoying hair and makeup with your wedding party, your planning team is already hard at work making the magic happen. In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on exactly what goes on behind the scenes on your Maui wedding day. From early-morning vendor confirmations to sunset photo coordination and post-reception pack-up, we’re walking you through the full day—from our perspective! Get a feel for the calm, confident energy we bring to each wedding, how we keep things running on time, and why working with trusted vendors makes all the difference. Whether you’re a few weeks out or just getting started, this episode will help you envision a stress-free day where your only job is to soak in the joy and say “I do.”  What You’ll Learn: What’s happening behind the scenes while you’re getting ready How we confirm and communicate with vendors (and what we do if they don’t respond!) Tips for seamless ceremony and reception setup The details we triple-check—so you don’t have to How we manage timelines, surprises, and last-minute requests with aloha  Links & Resources: Visit us: adreamwedding.net Follow on Instagram: @adreamweddingmaui