You don’t have to be in Hawaii to have a Hawaiian themed wedding! Most definitely not for this couple, who carried their engagement story (Danny proposed on the islands!) through to their big day. They chose tropical flowers, pineapples, leis, and a beautiful beachy setting to bring their dream day to life. From the sandy ceremony to the dance party reception, it was the perfect day for the pair! Below, photographer Kaitlyn Ferris describes their love story in more detail alongside all the beautiful photos from the day…
Photographing weddings that incorporate a piece of the couples journey together is always so inspiring to me. I love sifting through every beautiful detail to find the root of how beautiful their love can be, hidden in every aspect of their day. Erica + Danny are the perfect embodiment of this – they wove their extremely laid back personalities into an intimate beach wedding that featured those relaxed summer vibes that Fire Island is known for.
Erica + Danny knew the instant they met each other that forever was nestled in the energy that existed between them. Danny is a carpenter and Erica is a PICU nurse and yoga instructor, so their love has definitely been tested many times through distance and work schedules. Their incredible relationship blooms simply because they’re together, and that inspiring dedication and mutual respect is so refreshing! I loved getting to see them grow together, from their engagement session (which took place on an airplane hanger in some vintage outfits!) to the day they said ‘I Do’. I’m so thankful that I was able to document their rich history.
One of the sweetest elements of Erica + Danny’s Hawaiian inspired I Do’s was how much they stayed true to themselves. They got engaged in Hawaii, so it was only natural that they incorporate that little piece of their love! Every bit of their wedding came with a purpose, from their traditional lei ceremony on the beach (which signifies the tremendous love, respect, and, of course, aloha that is engrained in Hawaiian culture), to the single flower protea blooms that the bride + her ‘maids carried down the aisle. Erica also wore a simple flower crown that incorporated some muted florals and tons of lush greenery, which matched her flowing gown so beautifully!
