Maui Wedding Photographer

BELLSTONE
Highway 340 West Maui
This large volcanic rock sitting on the side of the road has an unusual capability – it sounds like a bell when struck in the right spot. There are several such stones throughout the islands, which is due to the chemical composition of the lava. If you strike this rock on the right side (mountain side) you will hear a metallic clank.

BLACK ROCK
Ka’anapali Beach Highway 340 West Maui
Black Rock is the site where ancient Hawaiians believed that their spirits “jumped off” or left this world. Each island has such a spot. It was believed that a spirit left this world to join it ancestors. If there were no ancestors to greet the spirit, it would wander the earth causing mischief.

Black Rock divides the beautiful beaches of Ka’anapali and Kahekili. Resorts line the coast but there are several public beach accesses available. This area is the site of one of the last volcanic eruptions on Maui. Snorkeling and scuba diving is especially good in this area as Black Rock forms a great reef wall. Locals are often seen diving into the deep waters around the rock.

Useful Information: FREE Parking available at the parking garage between the Sheraton and the Ka’anapali Beach Hotel. However, only a few sites are free and fill up quickly. Pay parking is available at Whalers Village Shopping Center. Paved walking path stretches the entire length of Ka’anapali Beach. Restaurants, snack bars, gift shops located at the resorts lining the beaches. Public access pathways located between many of the hotels. Great site for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving when the ocean is calm.

Directions: Take Highway 30 from Lahaina toward Ka’anapali. Turn left onto Ka’anapali Parkway at Mile Marker #24. Black Rock is located at the end of Ka’anapali Beach

DRAGON’S TEETH
Makalua-puna Point, Kapalua West Maui
Makalua-puna Point was created from one of the last lava flows on Maui. However, the lava here is a little different from the rest of the lava on Maui – it is much lighter, denser, and fine-grained. The wind sweeping over the point caused the lava to harden in an upward fashion. The jagged points of this formation look like dragon’s teeth, thus the name. Hundreds of years of salt spray has whitened the lava and even eroded holes through some areas.

Useful Information: FREE, paved parking is located off Office Road. The hike to the point is approximately 5 minutes along the edge of the golf course. Honokahua Preservation Site is halfway to the point on the right side of the path. Wear sturdy shoes when walking on the lava point, as the area is rocky and uneven. Windy area – no facilities or water available. Good view of Oneloa Bay from the left side of the point.

Directions: Turn left on Office Road just past Mile Marker #30 off of Highway 30. Parking is located on the right where the Office Road meets Lower Honoapiilani Road.

HONOKAHUA PRESERVATION SITE
Kapalua West Maui
This is the most important historical site at Kapalua. The site was unearthed when digging began for The Ritz Carlton, Kapalua. When the importance of the discovery was realized, the hotel was moved inland. The area, which contains over 900 ancient Hawaiian burial sites dating between 610 and 1800, has been recognized as a sacred site. Hawaiians believe that from such a place ancestor spirits continue to lovingly watch over the land and its people. The area is now carpeted with lush grass and bordered by native naupaka bushes. Also at the site is a portion of the 16th Century Alaloa or King’s Trail, a footpath that once encircled the island.

Useful Information: Weekly “Sense of Place” tours are offered to visitors by employees of The Ritz Carlton, Kapalua. View the area but DO NOT enter the actual burial grounds. Please show respect, as this is a religious site.

Directions: Take Lower Honoapiilani Road to the end where it becomes Office Road. There is a small parking lot here. Park and walk along the edge of the Ritz Carlton golf course toward the ocean and Makalua-puna Point. The Preservation Site will be on your right. It is well marked with informational signs.

KAHAKULOA HEAD
“The Tall Land” East of Kahakuloa Village West Maui
This 636-foot high hill is situated on a point east of the sleepy town of Kahakuloa. Part of his this hill is called Kahekili’s Leap. The 18th Century Maui King Kahekili used spend some of his time in this area. Legend states that before breakfast, the agile King would climb over 200-feet up the hill and “leap” into the water below. There is a hiking trail located between Kahakuloa Head and the 547-foot hill to the right called Pu’u Kahuli’anapa. From here are great views of the Head towering above. Trails lead to the top of Pu’u Kahuli’anapa and Kahakuloa Head, however, the trail to the top of the Head is very treacherous.

Useful Information: Wear sturdy hiking shoes if you plan to walk any of these trails. Carry plenty of water if hiking, as there is no shade, water, or facilities available.

Directions: Travel east on Highway 340 past Kahakuloa Village, a short distance past the 14 –mile marker. Kahakuloa Head is on the left.

NAKALELE POINT AND BLOWHOLE
Highway 30, West Maui
The drive from Kapalua around Nakalele Point and on to Wailuku is extraordinary. After passing the pineapple fields of Kapalua, you will see the famous surfing spot, Honolua Bay and then Honokohau Valley. Nakalele Point and light beacon is immediately after the valley. Hike down the hill to the magnificent blowhole below the beacon. The blowhole is the result of the ocean wearing away the shore below the lava shelf. With each wave, water is forced through a hole in the lava shelf resulting in the “eruption” of water similar to a geyser. The “blowing” of the water varies dramatically depending on tide levels and wave action. High tide and strong surf result in the best effects.

Useful Information: The blowhole, point and light beacon can easily be seen from the two trailheads without taking the hike. Two trails lead down to the blowhole – the first and longer trail called the Acid War Zone, leads down from Highway 30 starting at a dirt parking lot on the side of the road. The second and shorter trail begins less than 1/2 mile from the first site and is marked by a dirt pullout on the side of the road. Use extreme caution when walking these trails, as they are rocky and descend steeply toward the ocean. Wear sturdy shoes. Be very careful around the blowhole as the waves and resulting eruptions are unpredictable and dangerous.

Directions: Follow Highway 30 (Honoapi’ilani Highway) north from Kapalua. The Acid War Zone trail is near Mile Marker #38 where a gravel parking lot is located. A dirt jeep road begins the trail, which takes approximately 30 minutes to hike. The second trail to the blowhole is located 1/2 mile past Mile Marker #38 and is marked by a dirt pullout along the side of the road.

OLIVINE POOLS
Highway 340 West Maui
The Olivine Pools were named for this semi-precious gem found encrusted in the surrounding lava and sandstone. These naturally formed swimming pools are located on a lava shelf stretching along the coastline. When the sea is calm, the area is excellent for swimming, wading and sun bathing. Notice the unusual lava formations surrounding the area as you bathe in these wonderful pools.

Useful Information: Wear reef shoes when walking on the lava. Wear study shoes to walk the trail to the pools as it awkward and may be slippery. Do not wear lotions or oils in the pools as it may harm tiny sea life. DO NOT remove rocks, fish, or any sea life from the area• No facilities available. Monitor the ocean at all times – waves can be very unpredictable and dangerous.

Directions: Take Highway 30 past the Bellstone going toward Kahakuloa Village. A small gravel road on the left is located just prior to Mile Marker #16. Park and walk toward the ocean. A rock platform overlooks the pools. To the left of this overlook is a lava bench and a trail leading down to it and the lava shelf.

KAHAKULOA VILLAGE
Highway 340 West Maui
Traveling along the West Coast is one of the most scenic drives on the island. Past the Nakelele Blowhole and the Olivine Pools. Highway 340 narrows considerably for about 1.5 miles as it descends the mountain and enters Kahakuloa Village. This community is one of the most isolated spots on Maui and most of the residents work in and around the village. Aina Anuhea Tropical Gardens, Kaukini Gallery and Bruce Turnbull Studio and Sculpture Garden are a few examples of local businesses. Leaving the village is pullout with a terrific view of the village and bay. Just as the road widens past the village is another wonderful vantage site located between Kahakuloa Head, a 636-foot high hill beside the ocean, and Ku’u Kahuli’anapa, a 547-foot hill to its right.

Useful Information: Wonderful views of the village and ocean before and after the village. No gas stations or restaurants located in the village. Road is VERY NARROW for 1.5 miles leading into and out of the village – be very cautious and drive slowly!

Directions: Take Highway 30 around the west end of Maui from Kapalua. The highway turns into Highway 340 just prior to the village. Kahakuloa Village is located between Mile Markers #14 and 15 on Highway 340.

LAHAINA
“Cruel Sun” Highway 30 West Maui
Lahaina may, at first glance, seem like just another sleepy port town. But this lovely and pictureque city is full of life and brimming with history! Day or night, Lahaina is a site not to be missed. Parking is probably the only “problem” in the town, however, there are several public lots that are conveniently located. Lahaina started as an ancient Hawaiian fishing village. Then westerns and their tall ships began sailing to the islands and Lahaina became a popular town due to it’s natural harbor. Several of the buildings and much of the history of the area revolves around those early years of the 1800′s.

HALEAKALA VOLCANO
Sunrise Crater Tour: “HOUSE OF THE SUN”
A trip to Maui is never complete without viewing a magnificent sunrise from aloft Haleakala, Maui’s sleeping volcano. Travel to the 10,023 foot summit with Ekahi and experience the dawn of creation. Panoramic views, nature in the raw, and the wonders of Haleakala National Park will leave you breathless!

Wedding Hairstyles

Bridal and Wedding Hairstyles

Wedding Hairstyles are one of the most worried about hairstyles. From the bride to the bridesmaids, flower girls, moms, and all the guest, everyone’s goal at the wedding is to look their best in every way. The bride has to pick from the best Bridal hairstyles and everyone has to pick their best wedding hair styles. Wedding hair styles are usually the most eloquent and beautiful hair styles due to the nature of the event.

Bridal Hairstyles

Bridal Hairstyles have to be the best looking wedding hair styles because she is the center of attention. It is the day of her life that she has been looking forward to since she was little and she has to make it the most memorable day. There are so many other worries but bridal hairstyles is at the forefront with the major ones. Bridal hairstyles have to not only match the person but also match the dress, the veil, the shoes, the wedding colors, and the very ambiance of the wedding itself. There are many bridal hairstyles, classic and new, that is fit for each person. Bridal hairstyles can be any style from updos to flowing down. For updos bridal hair styles, there are many decorative ways to put your hair up. It is best to chose one that matches everything you are wearing. For those who chose flowing bridal hairstyles, having hair at it’s shiniest and softest through consistent hair care and salon visits will help you looking elegant.

Wedding Hairstyle Ideas

Medium Bridal Hairstyle
This wedding hairstyle is a choice for medium length hair. The bangs have a small sweep and the tresses are just allowed to naturally flow down with some touch. The ends are lightly curled out producing a complimentary style with the veil. A nice wedding hairstyle idea for woman with medium length hair.

Long Wedding Hairstyle
The second wedding hairstyle here is for hair that is a little longer in length. The hairstyle is center parted with wavy locks that fall gently past the shoulders. Instead of a veil, a simple tiara is used to add a touch to the overall style where a veil could take away from the overall look. There are many ways to go with flowing wedding hairstyles or down dos. Check out the wedding hairstyles pictures gallery for more ideas.

Updo Hairstyle for Weddings
The third wedding hairstyle idea present here is your basic, but really gorgeously done updo. A lot of women prefer updos because these hairstyles provide a unique look that no one attending the wedding can outshine. A great updo can make the bride gleam with radiance. This updo has a great tie in the back and the hair is brushed back to form a great place to add a tiara to top of the look.

Bridal Hairstyles Resources

There is an abundance of Bridal Hairstyles resources. All over the internet, in many magazines, and several television shows provide brides with help with everything from wedding hairstyles to the honeymoon. The internet has many websites dedicated to weddings. You can surf the web all day long and not run out of resources for bridal hairstyles. Internet bridal websites offer unlimited pictures of hairstyles on different face shapes as well.

Many of these sites offer forums and help boards where you can get expert advice about everything about the wedding as well as contest to help you with your wedding. Bridal magazines are great resources for bridal hairstyles. They provide bridal hairstyles pictures, tips for keeping your hair at its best, and some also provide consulting help. They provide valuable resources for bridal hairstyles as wedding hairstyles in past issues just might be what your are looking for in your wedding. Another sources, although, not as abundant, are wedding shows. There are many shows dedicated to weddings and the process of going through them which includes getting that perfect bridal hairstyle. The Women’s Network, TLC, and Oxygen sometimes have wedding shows that may help you chose a bridal hair style. Of course, a bridal consultant can be one for the best resources. A bridal consultant is experienced in all facets of the wedding and can help you chose the right bridal hairstyles to go with your wedding dress and veil.

Bridal Hairstyles Tips

* Select your bridal hairstyle before selecting accessories
* Try your hairstyle to see how it looks with all accessories
* Schedule your hair salon sessions early and keep good care of your hair
* Select many bridal hairstyles to chose from
* Wear a button shirt for your final bridal hairstyling so taking it off will not mess up your hair
* Keep hair well trimmed before wedding
* Select many bridal hairstyles to chose from
* Chose a style that fits you because its your wedding day
* Do not go overboard on accessories

One of the most important things in Planing your Maui Wedding is the actual location of your wedding.

In determining where you want to tie the knot, I would recommend you look at the following locations for an out door wedding.

When you ready to book your wedding please consider my services for you big day.

Aloha!

Nicole

Behind The Lens Maui- Photography

Big Beach ~ Makena
Big Beach in Makena is known for its often high surf which attracts surfers and boogie borders during the day. This large sandy beach is almost 2/3 of a mile long and over 100 yards wide. There is a smaller section of the beach connected by a path on the right, known as “Little Beach”. The division between Big Beach and Little Beach was caused by a lava flow and earthquake in 1790. The hill dividing the beaches is called Pu’u Ola’i or Earthquake Hill. Just off to the other end of Big Beach is a beautiful mix of palm trees, white sand beach and scattered lava rocks trailing out into the ocean.
Charley Young Beach
This intimate location offers it all for a Maui Beach Wedding ~ Grassy lawn overlooking the ocean, dramatic lava rock formations, white sandy beach, palm trees and more. The 3-acre beach park is located at the north end of Kamaole I Beach Park. The sand is soft and smooth and slopes very gently into the ocean. The area is sheltered from the wind and affords beautiful views of the ocean and Kihei town.
Five Palms Restaurant
On the oceanfront grounds of the award-winning Five Palms Restaurant, this private location on Keawakapu Beach is ideal for those looking for a ceremony/reception site with a manicured lawn, rock/sand beach and lush tropical foliage. Gorgeous views of the ocean stretching out to Maui’s sister islands Lanai and Kaho’olawe
La Perouse Bay
Located in the protected ‘Ahihi Kina’u Natural Area Reserve, La Perouse Bay is a beautiful lava rock beach formed by the only recorded eruption of the Haleakala volcano over 200 years ago. The drive to the bay and the bay itself are reminiscent of the barren landscape of what Mars or the moon may feel like. There is little vegetation, but the stark contrast of rock and sea make this a very unique wedding location.
Makena Cove
Also known as ‘Secret Beach’, this location has become increasingly popular for weddings given its unique combination of white sand beach, dramatic lava rocks, palm trees and tropical foliage. This location offers breathtaking views of Molokini and Kaho’olawe, and offers a gorgeous backdrop for your ceremony at any time of day
Makena Surf
Often called ‘Heart Rock Beach’ for the abundance of coral and sea rocks that wash ashore here ~ many of which are shaped like hearts. This beach is primarily visited by vacation renters during the day, and is often very quiet at sunset. During low tide periods, this beach offers many interesting wedding locations due to the many large rock formations that flank its sides.
North Malu’aka
Located just north of the Maui Prince Resort in Makena, North Malu’aka offers a great view of Kaho’olawe, Molokini and the West Maui Mountains. This location offers a bit more privacy than its Southern companion during the evening, perfect for a simple beach ceremony.

Paipu Beach
A very secluded beach next to Po’olenalena accessible by a tricky lava rock trail makes a perfect location for those looking for a private, pristine white sand beach and contrasting lava rocks trailing into the ocean. This beach is not easily accessible, and is recommended for smaller, morPolo Beach
Located behind the Fairmont Kea Lani Resort in Wailea, this beautiful beach offers terrific views of Kaho’olawe and Molokini, with a soft white sand beach, lava rock outcrops, and a mix of beautiful palm trees and tropical foliage. This beach is an excellent location for those looking for a primarily sandy beach with interspersed
e intimate ceremonies.

Wailea Lawn
Located adjacent to Wailea beach, this unique grassy lawn area rises sharply on a hill that overlooks the ocean and Wailea Beach. Adding to the drama of this location are several tall palm trees that seem to rise forever and provide a sense of royalty atop this well manicured area. The lawn itself is seldom used by tourists, but this location is best suited for early morning or sunset weddings.
Black Rock ~ Ka’anapali
Ka’anapali beach at Black Rock is a gorgeous location that is extremely popular during the day with snorkelers and swimmers. The rock is almost completely encrusted in coral with a large assortment of fish and sea turtles, making the snorkeling experience unforgettable. Hawaiian legend states that the spirits of warriors left the earth to meet their ancestors by leaping from this rock, and a nightly ritual honoring this tradition is performed here.
D.T Flemming Beach ~ Kapalua
Adjacent to the Ritz~Carlton, Kapalua, this beach is popular with boogie-boarders and body-surfers during the day. Also, popular for picnics and sunbathing, this beach provides the best ambience for weddings in the early morning hours since the sun sets at the far right end of the beach.
Hyatt Regency Resort
This beautiful resort at the south end of Ka’anapali Beach offers several great amenities and attractions in a meticulously manicured setting. While we can use the beach here, or at any location free of charge, the private resort grounds here make a beautiful backdrop for your wedding pictures. With several waterfalls, ponds & streams, bridges, interesting architecture and beautiful tropical plants and trees, the Hyatt Regency is a popular choice for wedding couples looking for a more private ceremony.
Ironwoods Beach ~ Oneloa Bay
Officially known as Oneloa Bay, this beautiful stretch of beach is primarily visited by few vacation renters and property owners adjacent to this beach, and is typically less crowded than the nearby DT Flemming Beach and Kapalua Bay. The beach itself is accessed by a paved downhill path with several sets of stairs, making it ideal for smaller, more intimate ceremonies. Also, this beach faces North-East, so this site is typically not ideal for sunset weddings.
Ka’anapali Beach
One of the most popular and well-known beaches on Maui, Ka’anapali beach seems to stretch on forever. South of Black Rock, this beach is normally very crowded with patrons of the many fine resorts that line this beach. Just north of Black Rock, however, there are fewer resorts and the beach offers the same stunning views without quite the crowds. This beach is recommended for early morning and sunset ceremonies.
Lava Point
This unique lava rock formation in Kapalua stretches far and wide into the ocean, and the surface is unusually smooth given its exposure to the trade winds. Privacy is afforded by the several large bushes and trees on the coast line, while wide-open views and dramatic sea-cliffs make this location unforgettable for your wedding.
Maui Heritage Gardens
Located in the lush ‘Iao Valley, Kepaniwai Park’s Heritage Gardens was established in 1952 as a showcase for Maui’s diverse heritage with ethnic houses and gardens representing the Hawaiian, Portuguese, Japanese, Caucasian and Filipino cultures. In 1994 a community of volunteers completely restored the gardens to its original beauty. The cool waters of the ‘Iao Stream flow through these gardens, feeding the ponds and small waterfalls constructed here. This tranquil, picturesque spot is perfect for your tropical, non-beach wedding ceremony.
Maui Tropical Gardens
Tropical Gardens of Maui is a 4-acre botanical garden and export plant nursery located in ‘Iao Valley of central Maui. For nearly 20 years the gardens have been raising and exporting quality orchids, palms & other rare and exotic plants. While primarily a nursery, the grounds here do offer a few choices for quaint, lush tropical garden weddings for smaller-scale ceremonies.
Maui Tropical Plantation
The ultimate location for tropical island feel, the Maui Tropical Plantation offers gorgeous scenery throughout. The entire plantation is bounded by the majestic West Maui Mountains, which slowly taper to rolling fields and orchids, culminating at the focal point fish and duck pond which is beautifully lined with an array of lush tropical plants and towering palm trees. The gazebo and lawn area provide an unmatched private outdoor wedding location.