The sparkling white sand of Hapuna Beach on the Big Island of Hawaii set the stage for our winter gown shoot featuring Claire Pettibone. While the islands have many beautiful beaches, Hapuna is a remarkable stretch of fine white sand that seems to stretch endlessly into the horizon. The ocean along this coastline lights up in the afternoon sun with an amazing spectrum of blue waters, ranging from turquoise to brilliant azure.

The gracious Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel rests at the edge of the beach, where our suite doors opened to a private lanai to reveal the spectacular view. Oversized guest rooms offer a generous list of amenities, and the friendly staff is ever attentive in making certain you are pampered during your stay

While it’s difficult to abandon one of the many lounge chairs scattered down the beach, an oceanside infinity pool is the perfect reprieve from afternoon tradewinds. Indeed, the expansive beach and the hotel’s sprawling grounds allow for a real sense of privacy and quiet rejuvenation for which the spiritual Big Island is well known. Open-air corridors filled with traditional Hawaiian artwork connect guest rooms and sculpted gardens, so that even a walk to the front desk becomes a relaxing stroll.

For those of us who can’t remain still for too long, the resort offers a long list of activities including golf, a fitness center, six restaurants, shopping boutiques and a day spa. The Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel offers the opportunity to do as little or as much as you prefer. If you are interested in being married on the Big Island, you should definitely consider one of the many wedding and honeymoon packages available. Considering the impeccable level of service and luxurious accommodations, the rates are surprisingly reasonable. Visit www.princeresortshawaii.com/weddings for more information

Shot on Location at Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel, Big Island

Gowns By Claire Pettibone + Jules Bly

Hats By Paradise Millinery By Katherine Carey

Furs and Accessories from urbanweddings.com

Hair + Makeup By Jacque Rojas