The next day, the couple came together with their friends and family at their ceremony overlooking Honolulu. Mele’s mom officiated, Daniel’s mom shared a passage, and their father served as ring bearers and also performed a water unity ceremony. “When we were up there between the Lion’s Gate Portal and pillars Ren of Renko Floral designed, it felt otherworldly but also very quotidian—like it was just us, holding hands in the park like we always do,” says Mele. Daniel remembers the entire ceremony as deeply moving and memorable. He shares that he felt, “Elated, floating, vibing, teary, hyperpresent—witnessing Mele in these moments was truly the most beautiful sight, and holding hands with her through it all was deeply grounding.” The newlyweds remember being filled with joy (and a bit of surprise at impact) as their loved ones showered rice over them.
The rest of the evening was filled with connection, happiness, and plenty of music. After speeches, the bride’s father recited a poem as the groom’s father played bass, Hawaiian music legend Brother Noland played his hits, the bride danced hula, and the groom sang “Knocks Me Off My Feet” with their band Hawaiian Soul. “What felt the most special was watching Mele dance hula,” says Daniel. “She danced as a kid but stepped away from it for over a decade, and only recently returned to the practice. It was special to witness her magic and talent in this way, and I’ll never forget her glow!” Says Mele, “It was a total portal of love, high vibration, and celebration!”
The after-party was held indoors in a space transformed by artist Bradley Capello into a “pink jewel box” filled with mirrors, disco balls, and a large Pegge Hopper cutout. “Dancing the night away on the lauhala mats that my mom and her lauhala friends wove and resting on the Tutuvi pillows they sewed was a truly magical experience,” shares Mele. “You could feel the aloha through your feet and tush!” A low-key beach day followed, giving friends and family time to say goodbye. “Soaking in salt water was the perfect way to process everything,” says Daniel.
Both the bride and groom share that they don’t take their wedding or their love for granted. “I think celebrating love and choosing love is a superpower,” says Mele.
