Blessings Beyond: Wedding in Paradise

So the purpose of our trip - as if you really need a purpose to go to Maui - was to join in the celebration of my Uncle Brent's wedding to Jackie. We are so glad they gave us an excuse for a great trip.

Here they are the night before their wedding at the luau. I guess this was a sort of bachelor and bachelorette party all rolled into one. They both lucked out because there were dancers who were scantily clad. Don't they look festive and in love?

The next morning while Jackie was off shopping with her sister or her sister was talking her down from the edge of a cliff - we aren't sure which - the rest of us were lounging by the pool counseling Uncle Brent. As you can see he was literally wearing his thoughts and feelings on his chest.

After our leisurely morning we dressed and loaded up for the trip to the other side of the island to Makena Beach. The directions made it feel like we were driving to a super secret place because they went something like...drive until you come to a 10 ft high lava rock wall. The wall will soon become 8 ft and there will be a blue house across the street. Drive 6 more yards and there is a small opening at the end of the wall. Enter here and do not leave valuables. Ewww, very mysterious.

When we arrived, there was a gold B*W SUV and a very large, tough looking man pacing the entrance to the beach. We hesitated and thought about turning tail and putting the pedal to the metal until we decided it was worth the risk to unite two people in love.

Off we went through the secret passage way to the beautiful beach. Ever the gentleman, Uncle Brent walked ahead and let his bride-to-be follow. Nice!

Jackie looked beautiful. Her flowers were stunning with stargazer lilies and birds of paradise.

The priest sounding the conch shell. The ceremony was a beautiful mix of Hawaiian tradition and Christina faith.

Exchanging vows. Jackie chocked a little on the "honor and respect" bit.

The wedding party and spectators.

Sealing the deal with a kiss.

The ceremony was gorgeous. The setting breathtaking. The sound of the waves was better than wedding music. From our perspective, it was the perfect day. I hope it was the same and more for Brent and Jackie. We were honored to share in their special day.

After the wedding we stayed on the beach for a while taking pictures and captured some of my favorites from the trip.

Brian and Kennon looking ever so serious.

In love with this photo. The only thing that would make it better for for Kennon to be in it too.

Me with the loves of my life.

Darold and Helen, Sarah and Darian - great traveling friends and family.

I've lost count, but I think Maui was about the 8th trip we've been on that included this wild bunch.

I love this picture of mom. She has a heart and kindness like no one else I will ever know.

Ah, how sweet.

Just look at that face. Pure sweetness.

After the wedding we headed to the dinner receptions at Sarento's on the Beach. Working and traveling I've had the opportunity to eat at lots of great restaurants, but this one was fabulous. The service was great, the setting remarkable and the food and wine delicious and plentiful.