5 Mistakes to Avoid When Eloping in Oahu
- Lauren Wylie
- Mar 20
- 3 min read
Eloping in Oahu is a dream come true—stunning beaches, lush mountains, and sunsets that look like they're on fire make it the perfect place to say "I do". However, planning an elopement can still be stressful. I get it! You were hoping eloping was the stress free way to get married and now you're still feeling overwhelmed.
Let me help you by giving you my top five common mistakes couples make when eloping in Oahu—and how to avoid them!
1. Not Checking Permit Requirements
Many of Oahu’s most beautiful locations—especially beaches—require permits for weddings and elopements. Failing to secure the proper permits can lead to last-minute stress or even fines.
How to Avoid It: Work with an experienced elopement photographer (like me!) who knows the ins and outs of obtaining the right permits for your chosen location. Always double-check regulations before finalizing your elopement spot.
2. Choosing the Wrong Time of Day
Oahu is a popular destination, and certain locations can get crowded quickly. Plus, lighting plays a huge role in the quality of your photos.
How to Avoid It:
Sunrise elopements offer soft lighting, fewer crowds, and cooler temperatures—perfect for an intimate experience.
Sunset elopements provide stunning golden-hour lighting but may require careful timing to avoid tourists.
Consult with your photographer to pick the best time based on your preferred location and aesthetic.
3. Underestimating the Weather
Hawaii’s weather can be unpredictable, with sudden rain showers and strong winds, especially in more remote areas. Knowing a little bit about time of year or even time of day can help this!
How to Avoid It:
Have a backup plan in case of rain—many stunning spots have nearby covered areas.
Choose attire that allows for some movement if the wind picks up.
Embrace the natural elements—sometimes, a little rain makes for the most magical photos!
4. Wearing the Wrong Attire
The tropical climate and natural landscapes of Oahu require thoughtful outfit choices. A heavy ballgown might not be ideal for a beach setting, and high heels don’t work well on rocky cliffs.
How to Avoid It:
Opt for light, flowy fabrics that move beautifully in the island breeze.
Choose comfortable footwear—barefoot on the beach or sturdy shoes for adventurous hikes.
Consider bringing a second outfit for more variety in photos.
5. Not Hiring the Right Photographer
Your elopement is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the right photographer ensures every moment is beautifully captured. Some couples prioritize budget over experience and regret not hiring someone familiar with Oahu’s unique landscapes and lighting conditions.
How to Avoid It:
Choose an experienced Oahu elopement photographer who knows the best locations and how to work with Hawaii’s natural lighting.
Find someone who also provides planning guidance to help you create a stress-free experience.
Make Your Oahu Elopement Unforgettable!
Avoiding these mistakes will help ensure your Oahu elopement is as stress-free and magical as you envision. As an experienced Oahu elopement photographer, I help couples plan and capture their perfect day with stunning images that last a lifetime. Considering eloping on Oahu and want my opinion ready my Elopement Guide: How to Elope on Oahu + Photography Locations Already know you want to elope on Oahu and want to start narrowing down some locations? Start with one one my all time favorites:
If you're ready to start planning your dream elopement, let's chat! Contact me here to create an unforgettable Oahu elopement experience.
Comments