Hawaii Beach Elopement in Kapalua, Maui

Yulun and Dongqi met while studying architecture at UPenn, and let’s just say—they didn’t waste any time. About three weeks into the semester, they were already inseparable. Fast-forward a few years, they chose a beautiful Hawaii beach elopement in Maui.

Their day was warm, golden, and overflowing with joy. They booked five hours of coverage, which gave us plenty of time to tell the whole story—from getting ready to sunset, with a few epic locations in between. Dongqi proposed in Furano, Japan, at his favorite café, which just so happened to be a filming location for his favorite show. It was quiet and intentional and completely caught Yulun off guard—in the best way. She was shocked and amazed at the thought he put into it.

Bride and groom kiss in the Honolua jungle

From Getting Ready to a First Look at Honolua Bay

The day started slow and steady—just a peaceful morning in Kapalua. It was the kind of start you hoped for on your wedding day. We captured all the little things that often get missed. Because they booked five hours of coverage, we had the freedom to move at a relaxed pace, being present and documenting the whole vibe.

Their first look happened in one of the dreamiest spots on the island—where the forest spills right into the ocean. Honolua Bay never disappoints, but this moment felt especially unreal. They saw each other and immediately lit up. You could feel how much they mean to each other without anyone needing to say a word.

Bride and groom first look in the Honolua jungle

A Cliffside Ceremony, Chinese Vows, & Hawaii Beach Elopement Portraits

For their ceremony, we found the perfect little pull-off spot on the side of the road—one of those hidden gems with a killer view. It is cliffside, with an ocean backdrop, and totally quiet except for the wind and waves. They wrote their vows in Chinese. It was such a personal touch—honoring where they come from.

We wrapped the day with a beach session filled with soft light, a warm breeze, and Maui doing what Maui does best. They were playful, relaxed, and entirely in the moment. It was the perfect way to end an already beautiful day.

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Cliffside elopement at Kapalua Ironwoods

When you’re eloping, it’s easy to think you only need an hour or two of photos—but trust me, giving yourself more time changes everything. With Yulun and Dongqi, we got to document it all: the calm before the first look, the tucked-away ceremony spot, and golden hour on the beach. Multiple locations? Check. The slower pace gave them room to be present, take it all in, and enjoy the experience.

This elopement was everything an elopement should be—sweet, intentional, and authentic to them from start to finish.

If you want more than a quick ceremony with a handful of portraits, I’m here for it. Let’s tell the whole story.

Click here to inquire and start planning your Maui elopement.