Michele Kitagawa and Michael Mullen, Jr. planned their hometown affair with the breathtaking natural beauty of Hawaii in mind. They both wanted to be married outdoors, and a lengthy guest list would require a venue that could accommodate a large group. Their coordinator Laura Lewis suggested the Hawaii State Art Museum in downtown Honolulu. The distinctive location provided a unique setting for the elegant, yet down-to-earth celebration the couple envisioned. "The museum grounds are just gorgeous, and we liked that our guest could browse the art gallery throughout the day," says Michele. Housed within the Capitol District Building, the meseum showcases an extensive collection by Hawaii's thriving art community.

The afternoon ceremony took place in the upper courtyard decorated with the bride's favorate tropical flowers, bundles of bright red protea and green cymbidium orcids, a choice that would dictate the color scheme for the event. Florist Yvonne Chapman designed a bamboo altar, delicately strund with Singapore orchids and red roses. Hundreds of cymbidium orchids created a natural aisle for the ceremony. The delighted couple stood before 300 friends and loved ones as they exchanged vows. Their daughter Callie was adorable in a pale green flower girl dress, her winsome hair adorned with an orchid haku lei. Bridesmaids wore chic chocolate brown dresses, along side groomsmen (all surfers, of course!) in black suits with checkerboard Vans. The ladies received an elaborate assortment of the bride's favorate goodies, including beauty products from lush, Starbucks gift cards, and chocolates - all neatly tucked into Gucci totes. The groom happily surprised his fellow watermen with customized surfboards and board bags to their utter delight.

After the ceremony guests gathered on the lawn to enjoy cocktails and sushi with musical entertainment by the group Pahale, childhood friends of the groom. Tables draped in stylish brown linens were artfully decorated with tall centerpieces of orchids and roses. Savvy Designs created contemporary wedding stationery featuring a distinctive monogram in keeping with the fresh, modern look of the event.

With the starry sky as their canopy, the newlyweds mingled with their guests beneath a clear top tent while caterers set up colorful food stations for the mulitcultural feast. The wedding menu offered everything from contemporary Hawaiian cusine to a made-to-order curry bar. Michele and Michael anticipated the highlight of the evening - a surprise performance by the musical group Natural Vibrations. A favorite among Kama`aina, the band kept celebrants dancing late into the evening. The only thing that distracted them from the live music was the bold and decadent cake in layers of rich chocolate. "Our wedding was one big family-style party!" says Michele. "Watching our guests dancing and smiling all night ment the world to us."