Tips and Ideas

LOVE IN ACTION

We love favors - those thoughtful gifts from a host to a guest, often found at each place setting. They can add to the tabletop decor and let guests know that their attendance is appreciated. Our couples and clients often ask us for ideas, and one idea we’d like to share is actually a favor alternative.

In lieu of a favor, you could consider a donation to a non-profit organization that aligns with your values and interests.  (Note:  donations could also be done in addition to giving favors.)

Here are some non-profits based in Hawai`i, some of which we have been blessed to work with, that would gratefully accept support:

CULTURAL PRESERVATION FOCUS

BISHOP MUSEUM

EDUCATION FOCUS

Public Schools of Hawai`i Foundation

The Public Schools of HawaiΚ»i Foundation directly strengthens public education statewide by funding innovative classroom projects, STEM and AI initiatives, and teacher-led programs that reach thousands of K–12 students each year, with more than $5.7 million awarded in grants since 1990.  With approximately 95% of funds raised going straight to schools and educators, donations create meaningful, measurable impactβ€”empowering teachers to inspire creativity, problem-solving, and future-ready skills in HawaiΚ»i’s youth. 

Roosevelt high School

(This is Mona’s alma mater. πŸ₯°)

ENVIRONMENTAL FOCUS

808 Cleanups
Ho`okua`aina
HoΚ»oulu Κ»Δ€ina
Kākoʻo ʻŌiwi

HEALTH FOCUS

Healthcare Association of Hawai`i (scholarship fund)
Susan C. Hirano Cancer C.A.R.E. Community

SOCIAL FOCUS

Hawai`i State Coalition Against Domestic Violence

DESIGN TIP! PANTONE COLOR OF THE YEAR

Pantone, the universal language of color design, has announced their 2026 Color of the year: Cloud Dancer (PANTONE 11-4201). This shade of white encourages serenity, relaxation and focus. The Pantone color of the year often makes its way into wedding design and decor. For some articles on colors of the year, including previous years, check out https://www.pantone.com/articles/color-of-the-year. An airy, off-white hue, the primary digital color codes for this shade are HEX #F0EEE9 and RGB 240, 238, 233.

TIP TALKS

Welcome to Tip Talks – our bite sized series of wedding & event planning by tips to make your celebration unforgettable!

Pets at weddings? Yes, but here’s the must-know info 🐾

We absolutely love when our couples include their four-legged family members β€” but there are a few key things to keep in mind:

🐾 Not all venues allow pets (and some only during the ceremony!) Make sure your venue allows for your furry guest before booking if their attendance is a must have

🐾 Designate someone to be your pet’s dedicated handler for the day

🐾 If they’re only attending the ceremony, make post-ceremony plans for their care

🐾 Be sure they’re comfortable, well-fed, and feeling the love too!

Wedding Cakes & Fresh Flowers

If you’re planning to decorate your cake with fresh florals, here’s a pro tip:

Make sure to coordinate with your floral designer in advance so they can provide safe, fresh flowers that match the rest of your event design.

Better yet? Have your floral designer and cake decorator connect directly. This ensures seamless styling and proper placement for a picture-perfect (and safe-to-eat!) cake.

Weddings with little ones? Here are a few tips to keep things smooth + sweet!

βœ”οΈ Schedule photos after the ceremonyβ€”when kids are rested, fed, and at their best

βœ”οΈ Hold off on buying their outfitsβ€”get them closer to the wedding for the perfect fit

βœ”οΈ Consider offering a nanny service if you’re planning an adults-only event

βœ”οΈ Set up kid-friendly activities (think coloring books, games, or a mini movie corner!) to keep them entertained during the reception

Because a little planning goes a long way in making sure everyone enjoys the celebrationβ€”big and small πŸ’›

Planning a daytime β€œI do”? Here are a few things to keep in mind πŸ‘‡

Afternoon Pros:

βœ”οΈ Lunch menus are often more budget-friendly

βœ”οΈ You and your guests still have the rest of the day to celebrate or relax

Afternoon Cons:

⏰ Hair + makeup starts bright and early

β˜€οΈ Outdoor venues can get a bit toasty

⏳ Setup time might be tighter, especially for outdoor spaces

Would you go for a sunny afternoon reception or stick with a classic evening affair?

🍰 Sweeten up your celebration! A dessert table isn’t just delicious β€” it’s a showstopper!

πŸ’‘ Tips & Tricks:

1️⃣ Mix heights & textures for visual impact.

2️⃣ Include a variety of flavors so there’s something for everyone.

3️⃣ Add personal touches like custom signage or themed dΓ©cor to tie it into your event.

Whether it’s a wedding, birthday, or corporate party, a well-styled dessert table will have guests coming back for seconds (and thirds πŸ˜‰).