The alluring colors and textures of an ocean landscape are endlessly captivating and romantic, idealized in many ways like a wedding itself. Nature has long been a source of inspiration for artists and poets, and this issue desinger Yvonne Chapman took her cue from the sand and sea to design a reception theme that combines the playful curves of the ocean with a cheerful summer color palette.

"When I think of sand, I am reminded of the playful energy and warmth felt at the beach... vibrant colors of orange and yellow signify the sun and the Mokara orchids give this table a whimsical feel," says Honolulu designer, Yvonne Chapman of the eponymous Yvonne Design. Handblown glass vases stand tall in three modern shapes that mimic the sensuous qualities of the ocean. Modeled after traditional chemistry lab beakers, the stems of each vase rise delicately above vibrant arrangements of dahlias, calla lilies, roses, celosia, and hybrid ranunculus in bodacious summer hues. Mokara orchids, wired discreetly to each vase top, appear to float over the table. The artistic waves of the sand create a modern still-life with layers of sand in tangerine, sunny yellow and bright white. Playing off the "sands of time" theme, Stacey Nomura of Bradley & Lily Fine Stationery, created circular tags that read, "time of your life," which are tied to miniature hourglasses. These unique parting gifts rest at each place setting and promise to be an interesting conversation piece among celebrants.

Guests are greeted with an elegant appetizer station decked in flower arrangements to match the seascape motif. Honolulu chef, Michelle Nakaya of Ginniberries, created an elegant display of cocktails and appetizers, in which each and every detail combine to create a visual impact defined by modern bursts of color. Bradley & Lily’s letterpress stationery echoes the rich palette and contemporary style, encouraging friends to imbibe in "a few of our favorites", such as a signature lilikoi martini. Michelle is known for her appreciation of the finer details that make each dish a colorful work of art. For this menu she selected a variety of starters, including a deconstructed summer roll cleverly garnished with star-shaped daikon. A colorful miniature Tuscan "BLT" is stacked with pancetta, Ho Farm’s heirloom tomato, basil aioli & Nalo Farm’s arugula on a rosemary round. Michelle says, "Using fresh local ingredients not only supports island farmers, it allows for the fullest flavors." Favorite items like her Hamakua truffle and mushroom tart with gorgonzola, thyme and rosemary topping are one of many items created from local produce. Another favorite on the menu is the lentil cous cous samosa cone, which blends all the flavors of a traditional Indian favorite, topped with edamame and Moloka'i sweet potato. Each tier of the entry table offers a unique taste, from the exotic flavors of orange-scented balsamic figs to the smokey delight of lemongrass cured salmon. Guests will be dazzled by a sumptuous first impression at this wedding reception.