Beloved

The verdant isle of Kauai has a way of beckoning her visitors back time and again. As the oldest island in the Hawaii chain, Kauai’s rich historical legacy is preserved through the spirit of the people who live there. California girl Heather Cowie felt a kinship with this special place, and during eighteen years of family visits, that connection grew stronger. She says, “I absolutely love Kauai. I always knew I would be married in Hanalei.”

On September 5, 2009 her wish came true. As the sun peeked through the misty clouds illuminating Mount Wai'ale'ale, Heather exchanged vows with Chris Lewis in this peaceful setting that had become her second home. As the ceremony came to a close, the two faced each other with their heads touching.

Heather and Chris planned their wedding in about thirteen months time, enlisting the professional assistance of event planner Deanna Schafer of I Do Weddings. A trip in October enabled them to meet in person to discuss every detail, from the flowers to the rehearsal dinner. “I fell in love with our florist at Martin Roberts Design and felt confident that he would do a wonderful job,” says Heather.

The bride was absolutely radiant in a simple strapless gown by Melissa Sweet with a rose detail at the bodice. The bridesmaids wore pewter dresses by the same designer to coincide with the groomsmen, who were dressed in classic Brooks Brothers suits. Chris opted for Brooks Brothers as well, and had an elegant bespoke suit created for the occasion.

 

The striking color palette the couple chose for the wedding reflected their modern aesthetic: a mixture of slate grey was punctuated by deep purple and white calla lilies mixed with chartreuse and white orchids. To set apart her two sisters among the bridesmaids, Heather asked the florist to create unique bouquets of dark purple orchids and calla lilies. Centerpieces composed of the same brilliant flowers graced tables covered in slate linens with runners in a lighter hue.

No detail was overlooked thanks to the (almost) daily phone calls between the bride and Deanna, who transformed the blank canvas of a white tent into a chic dance club to everyone’s delight. A slide show of childhood images played during Heather’s emotional dance with her father, while family and friends watched with teary eyes. And when the bride’s brother caught the garter, the jubilant mood was contagious. Indeed, no one in attendance wanted the evening to come to an end.