If you're looking for a perfect blend of elegance and romance, the half up, half down hairstyle might be just what you need. Here’s why this timeless look is a fantastic choice for brides and how to style it for your big day.

Why Choose Half Up, Half Down?

1. Versatility: The half up, half down style suits almost every hair type and length. Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, you can tailor this look to match your unique texture.

2. Romantic Vibes: This hairstyle embodies a delicate balance of sophistication and playfulness. It keeps your hair out of your face while allowing your beautiful locks to cascade down your back, adding an ethereal touch.

3. Ideal for Accessories: A half up, half down style provides the perfect canvas for hair accessories— floral crowns, jeweled clips, or elegant veils. You can showcase these accents without overwhelming your overall look.

4. Comfort: Weddings can be long events, and comfort is key. This hairstyle keeps your hair controlled while allowing for movement, so you can dance the night away without worry.

Look for inspiration from various sources like bridal magazines, social media platforms, and even your favorite celebrities. Creating a mood board can help you visualize the look you want. Don’t forget to consider your wedding dress style, as this can influence your hairstyle choice.

Your wedding day is a celebration of love and joy, and your makeup should reflect that with elegance and grace. If you’re leaning towards a look that’s both radiant and understated, soft glam makeup is your perfect match. This style combines subtlety with sophistication, ensuring you look stunning without overwhelming your natural beauty. Here’s everything you need to know about achieving the perfect soft glam look for your special day.

What is Soft Glam Makeup?

Soft glam makeup is all about enhancing your features with a natural, radiant finish. Unlike bold or dramatic makeup styles, soft glam focuses on a smooth, polished look that feels timeless and effortless. Think glowing skin, well-defined eyes, and a hint of color on the cheeks and lips, all blending harmoniously.

Extra tips on preparing for your wedding day: 
Trial Run: Schedule a makeup trial to test your soft glam look before the wedding day. This allows you to make any adjustments and ensures you’re happy with the final result.
Hydration: Keep hydrated in the days leading up to your wedding. Well-hydrated skin looks healthier and more radiant.
Touch-ups: Have a small touch-up kit with essentials like powder, lip color, and mascara for quick fixes during the day.

Soft glam makeup is the perfect choice for a wedding because it highlights your natural beauty while still giving you a polished, elegant look. With the right preparation and techniques, you’ll be glowing on your special day, radiating confidence and joy. Here’s to a day as beautiful as your soft glam look!

Aloha, beautiful brides-to-be! 🌺 As a Hawaii-based makeup artist, I’m often asked about natural bridal makeup. If you’re dreaming of a makeup look that enhances your natural beauty rather than masking it, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into what natural bridal makeup is all about and why it’s perfect for your big day in paradise!

Do you want to Embrace Your Natural Beauty?
Natural bridal makeup is all about celebrating who you are without overwhelming your features. Think of it as a subtle enhancement that highlights your best attributes while keeping the overall look fresh and effortlessly beautiful. This style of makeup lets your personality shine through, which is especially important for a day as personal as your wedding.

The Hawaii Touch
Living and working in Hawaii means I get to work with the most stunning brides in the most beautiful settings. The tropical climate here calls for makeup that can withstand humidity and shine while still looking flawless. Natural bridal makeup in Hawaii is often all about lightweight, breathable products that give you that radiant, dewy glow—perfect for the sun-kissed paradise backdrop!

The Essentials of Natural Bridal Makeup
1. Flawless Base: For natural bridal makeup, the base is crucial. Opt for a lightweight foundation or BB cream that offers buildable coverage. The goal is to even out your skin tone while still letting your natural skin texture peek through. Don’t forget a touch of concealer for those pesky blemishes or dark circles!

2. Soft Contouring: Instead of harsh lines, we go for soft, subtle contouring by using a cream or powder contour that blends seamlessly into your skin. This enhances your features without making them look overly sculpted.

3. Radiant Glow: Highlighter is your best friend for a natural glow.  cream or liquid highlighter that melts into your skin, giving you a dewy finish. Applying it to the high points of your face—cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of your nose—for a luminous look.

4. Natural Brows: Perfectly groomed brows frame your face but don’t need to be overly filled in. Using a brow gel or pencil to fill in any sparse areas with light, feathery strokes for a natural look.

5. Soft Eyes: Keep your eye makeup simple and elegant. Neutral eyeshadows in shades that complement your skin tone work best. A touch of mascara to enhance your lashes will make your eyes pop without looking too dramatic.

6. Rosy Cheeks: A bit of blush on the apples of your cheeks adds a healthy flush to your complexion. Choosing a shade that mimics your natural flush for a look that’s both vibrant and understated.

7. Perfect Lips: Go for a lip color that enhances your natural lip shade. A tinted lip balm or a soft lipstick can provide just the right amount of color without being overpowering.

The Best Products for Hawaii's Climate
When it comes to makeup in Hawaii, the heat and humidity are real factors. We recommend using products that are long-wearing and resistant to sweat and oil. Look for long wearing foundations, setting sprays, and powders designed for a tropical climate. These will help keep your makeup in place while you dance the night away!

So, let your natural beauty shine, and remember: your wedding day is about celebrating YOU in all your radiant glory.

Mahalo for stopping by, and happy wedding planning!

​Dreaming of a Disney-themed wedding but want to escape to a tropical paradise? Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii, has the perfect blend of fairy tale magic and island beauty. Aulani is the ultimate destination for a Disney-inspired wedding that’s as unique as your love story.

At Aulani, your wedding can be as Disney as you want it to be. Here are some ways to infuse your celebration with Disney magic:

Themed Décor: Choose from subtle Disney touches or go all out with themes inspired by your favorite characters and stories.
Character Appearances: Surprise your guests with visits from Mickey, Minnie, or other beloved Disney characters.
Fairy Tale Elements: Consider incorporating a Cinderella-style carriage, themed wedding favors, or even a magical fireworks display.

Delicious Dining
Aulani’s chefs create culinary experiences that blend local Hawaiian flavors with Disney creativity. Whether you prefer a plated dinner, a buffet, or a beachside luau, the food will be a highlight. And don’t forget the cake! Custom Disney-themed wedding cakes are a specialty at Aulani.

Beyond the Wedding Day
Make your wedding a multi-day celebration with these unforgettable experiences:

Spa Treatments: Relax at Laniwai, A Disney Spa, with treatments designed for couples and bridal parties.
Activities and Excursions: Explore Oahu with activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and cultural tours arranged by the resort.
Private Luau: Host a private luau featuring traditional Hawaiian music, dance, and cuisine.

Stress-Free Planning
Planning a destination wedding can be challenging, but Aulani’s experienced wedding planners are there to help every step of the way. They’ll assist with everything from choosing the perfect venue to coordinating travel and accommodations for your guests. Nicole + Kim and their team are amazing!! 

Getting Ready/First Look

Ceremony 

Reception

Your wedding day is a time of joy, love, and celebration, and you deserve to look and feel your absolute best as you walk down the aisle. One of the keys to achieving flawless makeup on your special day is proper preparation and pampering in the weeks leading up to the wedding. By investing time and effort into self-care and skincare, you can ensure that your makeup application is seamless, radiant, and long-lasting. Here are five essential steps to pamper yourself before your wedding for the best makeup application possible.
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1. Take Care of Your Skin: Beautiful makeup starts with healthy skin, so it's essential to establish a consistent skincare routine in the months leading up to your wedding. Start by cleansing your skin twice daily (day + night) to remove dirt, oil, and makeup, followed by gentle exfoliation 2-3 times a week to slough off dead skin cells and reveal a smoother complexion. After cleansing and exfoliating, moisturize your skin with a hydrating moisturizer to lock in moisture and keep your skin soft and supple. Pay special attention to areas prone to dryness, such as your cheeks and under eyes, to ensure a smooth canvas for makeup application on your wedding day.
2. Hydrate from the Inside Out: In addition to external skincare, it's essential to hydrate your body from the inside out by drinking plenty of water. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day to keep your skin hydrated, plump, and glowing. Proper hydration not only improves skin texture and tone but also helps flush out toxins and impurities, leaving you with a clearer complexion. Start each day with a glass of water and carry a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day to stay hydrated and refreshed. Your skin will thank you, and you'll notice the difference in your makeup application as well.
3. Dermaplane for Smooth Skin: For an extra boost of radiance and smoothness, consider incorporating dermaplaning into your pre-wedding skincare routine. Dermaplaning is a non-invasive exfoliation treatment that uses a sterile surgical scalpel to remove dead skin cells and vellus hair (peach fuzz) from the surface of the skin. By exfoliating the skin and removing fine hair, dermaplaning creates a smooth and even canvas for makeup application, allowing products to glide on effortlessly and adhere better to the skin. Schedule a dermaplaning treatment a week before your wedding to reveal a fresh, luminous complexion that's perfect for makeup application. If you haven’t tried it before, it is essential to do it a few months to see if you will have a reaction to this service. 
4. Groom Your Brows and Upper Lip: Well-groomed brows and a smooth upper lip can make a world of difference in your overall appearance and makeup application. Take the time to groom your eyebrows by shaping, and trimming. If you have unwanted facial hair on your upper lip, consider waxing, threading, or using a depilatory cream to remove it for a smoother, more polished look. Well-groomed brows and a hair-free upper lip create a clean and polished canvas for makeup application, ensuring that your bridal look is flawless and photo-ready.
5. Prioritize Your Health: Last but not least, prioritize your overall health and well-being in the weeks leading up to your wedding. Get plenty of restful sleep each night to allow your skin to regenerate and repair itself, leaving you with a fresh and revitalized complexion. Incorporate regular exercise into your routine to reduce stress, boost circulation, and promote healthy skin. Focus on eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to nourish your body from the inside out. Try not to drink too much alcohol as it tends to dehydrate and age skin. By prioritizing your health and well-being, you'll not only look and feel your best on your wedding day but also set the stage for a lifetime of happiness and wellness with your partner.

While makeup can work wonders in enhancing your natural beauty and concealing minor imperfections, it's essential to remember that it cannot completely mask texture, wrinkles, or other significant skin concerns. However, by diligently following the steps outlined above to care, you can significantly improve the canvas upon which makeup is applied.

​Remember, confidence and self-care are the ultimate keys to bridal beauty, and by investing in yourself, you'll shine bright on your special day.

Planning a wedding can be one of the most joyous yet stressful times in your life. But if you’re looking to add a touch of cultural richness and unique tradition to your special day, consider incorporating a Chinese tea ceremony into your wedding festivities in beautiful Hawaii. Not only does this ancient ritual honor your heritage, but it also adds an intimate, meaningful moment to your celebration.

The Beauty of the Chinese Tea Ceremony
The Chinese tea ceremony is a cherished tradition that symbolizes respect, gratitude, and the union of two families. During the ceremony, the bride and groom serve tea to their parents and elders as a sign of respect and appreciation. This act of servitude is reciprocated with blessings and gifts, making it a heartfelt exchange of love and good wishes.

Finding the Right Makeup Artist and Hairstylist
A key part of the ceremony is the traditional attire, which often includes a qipao or cheongsam for the bride. To complement this stunning outfit, you'll want to look your absolute best. This is where our expertise of a talented makeup artist and hairstylist comes in. Here in Hawaii, we’re lucky to have an array of talented professionals who specialize in bridal beauty, ensuring you look radiant on your special day.

Makeup Artist Tips
1. Consult Early: Schedule your makeup trial before your wedding day. This gives the makeup artist time to understands your vision and work with the unique requirements of traditional Chinese makeup styles.
2. Natural Elegance: Traditional bridal makeup tends to emphasize natural beauty with a touch of elegance. Communicate your preferences clearly to achieve a look that complements both your cultural attire and personal style.
3. Long-Lasting Beauty: Hawaii’s climate can be humid, are speciality is applying long lasting makeup techniques.

Hairstylist Tips:
1. Traditional Updos: Hairstyles like the classic chignon or intricate braids often pair beautifully with traditional Chinese outfits. Discuss these styles with your hairstylist and consider hair accessories like decorative pins or flowers.
2. Trial Runs: Just like with makeup, schedule a hair trial to find the perfect style that holds up in Hawaii’s tropical climate. This is also a great time to test any hairpieces or accessories.
3. Adaptability: Our hairstylist will know how to adapt traditional styles to suit your hair type and the overall vibe of your wedding. Trust our expertise but don't hesitate to voice your preferences.

Dressing in Cultural Outfits
Changing into a cultural outfit, like a qipao, can be a magical part of your wedding day. Not only does it honor your heritage, but it also adds an extra layer of beauty and significance to your ceremony. Here are some tips for a smooth transition:

1. Plan the Timing: Coordinate with your wedding planner or coordinator to find the perfect time for your outfit change. This is often done after the main ceremony and before the reception.
2. Practice Makes Perfect: Changing into a traditional outfit can sometimes be tricky, especially with intricate designs and fastenings. Practice beforehand to ensure a seamless transition.
3. Capture the Moment: Don’t forget to have your photographer capture the moment you change into your traditional attire. These photos will be a beautiful reminder of your heritage and the love you share.

When planning your Hawaiian wedding with a Chinese tea ceremony, remember to take advantage of the local expertise. Hire a makeup artist and hairstylist who understand your vision, and embrace the cultural richness of your heritage. This combination will ensure that your special day is not only picturesque but also filled with cherished memories and cultural significance.

We look forward to being a part of your journey. Here's to a lifetime of love, happiness, and beautiful memories!

Glowing Skin: In 2024, the emphasis is on enhancing natural beauty, and nothing epitomizes this more than glowing skin. Brides are opting for skincare routines that prioritize hydration and luminosity, resulting in a radiant complexion that shines from within. Dewy foundations and lightweight tinted moisturizers are favored over heavy matte finishes, allowing the skin to breathe and glow throughout the day. Highlighters with a subtle shimmer are applied strategically to the high points of the face, imparting a soft, ethereal glow that catches the light with every movement. Although, if you are on the oilier side, opt for a soft matte finish, this way throughout the day you’ll have the Hawaiian Humidity to give you a natural glow. 

Soft, Romantic Eyes: For eye makeup, soft and romantic looks take center stage. Brides are embracing neutral eyeshadows in warm tones such as peach, rose gold, and champagne, creating a soft and flattering canvas for the eyes. Subtle smudges of eyeliner and delicate winged flicks add definition without overpowering the look. False lashes are kept natural-looking, with a focus on length and separation rather than volume, for fluttery lashes that enhance the eyes without stealing the show.

Pop of Color: While neutral tones remain popular for wedding makeup, 2024 sees a playful incorporation of color into bridal looks. Brides are experimenting with pops of color on the eyes or lips, adding a vibrant and unexpected element to their makeup. Soft pastel shades like lilac, peach, and mint are particularly popular for adding a touch of whimsy and romance to the overall look. Whether it's a subtle wash of color on the lids or a bold statement lip, the key is to keep the rest of the makeup understated to let the pop of color take center stage.

Effortless Hairstyles: When it comes to hair, effortless elegance reigns supreme. Brides are favoring loose, tousled waves and romantic updos that exude a sense of relaxed glamour. Soft, face-framing tendrils and delicate braids add a bohemian flair to classic styles, creating a look that is both timeless and on-trend. Accessorizing with delicate hairpins, floral accents, or sparkly hair accessories adds a touch of sparkle and whimsy to the hairstyle, perfect for a summer wedding.

Natural Textures: In line with the overall theme of embracing natural beauty, brides are celebrating their hair's natural texture in 2024. Whether it's cascading curls, beachy waves, or sleek and straight locks, the focus is on enhancing what nature has given. Minimal heat styling is preferred, with texturizing sprays and serums used to enhance and define the hair's natural texture. This effortless approach to hairstyling not only looks chic but also ensures that the hair remains healthy and vibrant throughout the day.

Bridal Hair and Makeup @faceartbeauty
Photo: @erinkaiulaniphoto 
Location: @maleanagardenskailua 

Are you dreaming of a wedding that feels like a romantic escape to a tropical paradise? The allure of a tropical wedding, with its vibrant colors, lush greenery, and laid-back vibes, is hard to resist. In this blog, we'll explore some design tips and ideas to help you create the tropical wedding of your dreams.

Choose the Perfect Location: The first step to achieving a tropical vibe is selecting the right location. Beachfront venues, botanical gardens, or resorts with tropical landscapes are ideal choices. The natural surroundings will set the stage for your dream wedding.

Embrace Vibrant Colors: Tropical weddings are all about bold and lively colors. Think lush greens, vibrant blues, sunny yellows, and fiery reds. Incorporate these hues into your decor, bridesmaid dresses, and even your wedding invitations for a cohesive tropical palette.

Lush Floral Arrangements: Flowers are a central element of tropical weddings. Consider using tropical blooms like orchids, hibiscus, and bird of paradise to create stunning bouquets, centerpieces, and floral installations. Mix in plenty of lush greenery for that lush, jungle feel.

​Tiki-Inspired Decor: Tiki torches, bamboo accents, and rattan furniture can add a touch of Polynesian charm to your wedding decor. Create lounge areas with bamboo chairs and tiki torches to give your guests a cozy, beachy feel.

Exotic Cuisine: Treat your guests to a taste of the tropics with a menu featuring fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and island-inspired cocktails. Consider setting up a fresh fruit bar or a tiki drink station to keep the tropical theme going.

Beach-Inspired Details: Incorporate beach-inspired elements like seashells, driftwood, and starfish into your decor. You can use these as table accents, in your bouquet, or even as part of your wedding cake design.

Creative Lighting: Use creative lighting to enhance the tropical ambiance. String lights, lanterns, and candlelit pathways can create a romantic, dreamy atmosphere as the sun sets.

Tropical Stationery: Set the tone from the beginning with wedding invitations that feature tropical motifs or watercolor designs inspired by the ocean and palm trees.

Destination-Inspired Favors: Send your guests home with a taste of the tropics by gifting them with small bottles of tropical-scented sunscreen, custom-designed sunglasses, or mini bottles of local rum.

Consider the Weather: Tropical destinations often come with unpredictable weather. Have a backup plan, such as a tent or indoor venue, in case of rain or extreme heat.
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Creating a tropical wedding design involves infusing your personality into the details while embracing the beauty of the destination. With the right planning and attention to design elements, you can transform your wedding into a tropical paradise, leaving you and your guests with unforgettable memories of your special day. So, go ahead and turn your dream tropical wedding into a reality!

Hawaii, with its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm, tropical climate, has long been a dream destination for couples seeking a unique and picturesque setting for their wedding day. As we step into the fall of 2023, Hawaii continues to be a top choice for couples looking to tie the knot in paradise. In this blog, we'll explore the latest wedding trends that are shaping Hawaii's wedding scene this season.

Sustainable Celebrations: Sustainability has become a central theme in weddings worldwide, and Hawaii is no exception. Couples are increasingly opting for eco-friendly practices when planning their Hawaiian nuptials. This includes sourcing locally grown flowers, choosing vendors with eco-conscious practices, and minimizing waste by using biodegradable or reusable decor. Hawaii's stunning natural beauty is the perfect backdrop for couples looking to celebrate their love while minimizing their carbon footprint.

Intimate Beach Elopements With the ongoing influence of the pandemic, intimate weddings and elopements remain a prominent trend for Fall 2023. Hawaii's golden beaches, lush gardens, and dramatic cliffs offer an idyllic setting for couples seeking a private, romantic ceremony. Many couples are choosing to exchange vows with just a few close friends and family members or even opting for a "just us" elopement experience.

Boho Chic Vibes Boho-inspired weddings are making waves in Hawaii this fall. Couples are embracing the relaxed, free-spirited aesthetic with elements like flowy bridal gowns, floral crowns, and eclectic decor. Earthy color palettes, dreamcatchers, and macrame accents are also popular choices for creating that boho-chic atmosphere against Hawaii's natural beauty.

​Hawaiian Cultural Fusion Couples are increasingly incorporating Hawaiian traditions and cultural elements into their ceremonies to honor the rich history of the islands. From the exchange of leis to the sound of ukuleles playing softly in the background, these cultural touches add depth and authenticity to the wedding experience. Some couples even opt for traditional hula performances or incorporate ancient Hawaiian rituals into their ceremonies.

Tropical Floral Designs Hawaii is renowned for its exotic and vibrant flora, and Fall 2023 weddings are taking full advantage of this natural resource. Couples are choosing bold and colorful tropical blooms, such as hibiscus, orchids, and bird-of-paradise, to adorn their venues, bouquets, and table settings. The result is a visually stunning celebration that perfectly complements the island's natural beauty.

Sunset Ceremonies The allure of a Hawaiian sunset has always been a powerful draw for couples looking to exchange vows in paradise. Sunset ceremonies continue to be a popular choice, offering a breathtaking backdrop as the sun dips below the horizon. Couples are choosing beachfront locations and coordinating their ceremony times to coincide with the golden hour, creating a truly magical atmosphere for their special day.

Creative Food and Beverage Experiences Hawaii's diverse culinary scene is inspiring couples to get creative with their wedding menus. Incorporating local ingredients and flavors, such as fresh seafood, poke bowls, and tropical cocktails, adds a unique and delicious element to the celebration. Food trucks, interactive food stations, and farm-to-table dining experiences are becoming more prevalent, offering guests a taste of Hawaii's culinary delights.

Will you be adding these trends to your Hawaii Wedding? 

August 19th, 2023 Saturday from 11am-3pm 
At the Kahala Hotel 

Come and visit our table, and meet with other vendors! 
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You’ll also get to: 
-Have a Site Tour of Guest Rooms and Wedding Venue 
-Enjoy Refreshments from Kahala 
-Receive a 10% off discount on Lunch & Dinner (food items only) at the Veranda, Hoku’s or Plumeria Beach House (limited time of 8/19-8/25/23( 
-Complimentary Self or Valet Parking 

For more details please contact Kahala Resort Catering Department at 808-739-8715 or email: [email protected] 
Ticket price is $20 per person
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