One of my favorite things about photographing elopements and intimate weddings is creating a day that truly feels like you. There isn’t a timeline you have to squeeze into (although I do love a timeline built with flexibility in mind). Instead, every part of the day can be intentionally chosen around what matters most to the two of you.

If you’re looking for something a little more than exchanging vows on the beach, an intimate wedding venue like Kaimea Estates might be exactly what you’re envisioning. Located on Oʻahu’s beautiful east side, this venue offers the relaxed beauty of Hawaiʻi while giving you the comfort and flexibility of a private venue for your wedding day. You can view the full gallery of R + D’s wedding here.

R + D originally planned to say “I do” on the beach surrounded by their closest family and friends. As they continued planning, though, they realized they wanted a space where everyone could gather together, celebrate, sit, and enjoy a meal without worrying about crowds, weather, or logistics. That’s when they decided on Kaimea Estates for their intimate Oʻahu wedding ceremony and post-wedding brunch.

Why Choose Kaimea Estates for an Intimate Wedding on Oʻahu

Nestled on Oʻahu’s east side, Kaimea Estates has a peaceful indoor-outdoor feel that makes it ideal for intimate weddings and small wedding celebrations. During R + D’s celebration, the plumeria trees were in full bloom, adding the sweetest tropical backdrop to an already beautiful morning. It felt private, relaxed, and welcoming—exactly the kind of atmosphere that lets couples stay present instead of feeling rushed from one location to the next.

One of the biggest advantages of choosing a venue like Kaimea Estates is the flexibility it provides. Hawaiʻi’s weather can change quickly, and while that unpredictability is part of the islands’ beauty, it’s also something to plan for. Having access to an indoor space or covered lanai means your ceremony can continue comfortably if it rains, while also giving guests a shady (and air-conditioned) place to cool off during warmer months.

After the ceremony, everyone gathered for a light brunch together. I love when couples build time like this into their wedding day because it creates space to slow down, laugh with family, and actually enjoy the celebration before heading off for portraits or the rest of the day’s adventures. These quieter moments often become some of the most meaningful memories. If this sounds like your vibe, find out more here.

Planning for a Multi-location Wedding Day

Although Kaimea Estates sits right along the ocean, there isn’t much sandy beach directly in front of the property. One of the things I love, though, is how close it is to other beautiful photo locations. After R + D celebrated with their family, we made the short drive (less than 10 minutes) to Kahala Beach for their portraits. It gave them the best of both worlds: a relaxed, private venue for their ceremony and brunch, followed by the vibrant ocean views that you just can’t get anywhere else. Pairing an intimate wedding venue with nearby beach portraits is one of my favorite ways to create a wedding gallery that captures both the celebration with loved ones and the natural beauty of Oʻahu.

If you’re dreaming of an intimate wedding in Hawaiʻi but aren’t sure whether a beach ceremony or a private venue is the better fit, you don’t have to choose one or the other. Many couples combine the two—celebrating with family at a venue before heading to a nearby beach or scenic overlook for sunset portraits. It gives you the best of both worlds: quality time with the people you love and the breathtaking island scenery Hawaiʻi is known for. If you’re not even sure what island you want to get married on or are thinking about eloping, check out my page How to Elope in Hawai’i.

Featured Vendors

Venue @kaimeaestates

Photographer @erinjoypictures

Coordinator + Rentals @amazinggracehi 

Officiant @marry_me_hawaii

Bouquet + Lei @leipo.o_by_lalaine

Musician @oahustrings