Bringing some Hawaiian sunshine your way today as we talk all about planning a destination wedding in O’ahu. Specifically, the Four Seasons O’ahu in Ko Olina.

I was lucky enough to chat with Amanda, the director of Catering & Conference Services at Four Seasons O’ahu. And more than her fabulous job, she got married in Ko Olina in December of 2018 and is now raising her son Tommy with her husband on the island. She’s giving us the inside look and tips for the perfect planning.

So, what do you need to know about the Four Seasons O’ahu?

Not only are they focused on high quality, service-focused weddings, but they are in the most amazing location. If you’ve done any research, you know that the West Side of Oahu has the best sunsets and amazing weather. Ko Olina is a lush, green oceanfront retreat on the calm leeward coast (which faces away from the wind) of O‘ahu, Hawaii. It is referred to as the “Place of Joy”

What is so brilliant about the Four Seasons? 

The brand has over 100 hotels and resorts worldwide. And sister locations on islands including Maui, Big Island (Hualalai) and Lanai. They know their stuff!

Awards

Condé Nast Traveler Readers Choice Award 2019

Travel & Leisure World’s Best Awards 2019

USA Today 10 Best Destination Resort, Best Hawaii Hotel, Most Romantic Hotel 2019

KAUAI

The backdrop is stunning for a destination wedding – picture sweeping ocean and mountain views and a string of jewel-like lagoons connected by more than a mile and a half of seaside pathways. Not only that, but most major cities have non-stop flights to Honolulu, and the Four Seasons is only a 20 min drive west of Honolulu Airport.

What is happening in Hawaii and at the property at this time? 

We used the time we were closed to make updates to property even though it’s still new. Hawaii has been very safe and a great place for planning a wedding and traveling! A COVID test is currently required, and you can find more information by clicking here.

What options do couples have for planning a wedding at Four Seasons Oahu?

Don’t forget that there is so much variety available. We can discuss options outside and inside too! There are multiple venue options and Lanikuhonua is next door.

The Four Seasons hosts about 150 weddings per year, and an additional 175 Japanese weddings. I know that price is one of the first questions you might have, so I made sure to ask Amanda.

Depending on the size of the wedding, you’re usually looking at around $250 per person on food and beverage. Beyond that, you’ll have about $15,000 spent on your vendors, depending on your package of choice. Then your rooms will cost about $500 per room per night.

What makes having a wedding on Oahu so special for couples? 

In 2021, one of the biggest reasons is that O’ahu allows you to have a destination wedding that is still safely within the U.S. for travel restrictions. It’s also an easy flight to arrive. You can still island hop, but you will need to test for COVID at each island. 

How should couples go about planning from a distance?             

This is all about who you hire and partner with.

When you are working with a planner and a fantastic venue like the Four Seasons, you cannot go wrong. Make sure you are in clear communication with all of your vendors (and get references!). When looking for vendors, ask your planner and the venue for recommendations. They want you to have an amazing wedding, and they won’t recommend anyone who would hurt their own reputation.