Features
Pacific Rim Weddings
Summer/Fall 2004
This issue we showcase the gowns of two contemporary designers, each with their own distinctive style. New Zealand designer Jules Bly creates dresses that evoke a sense of drama and sensuality, with soft shimmery silks and plunging necklines reminiscent of the glamorous 1950's era. Although she resides in New Zealand, whenever possible the designer enjoys the opportunity to work directly with brides to achieve the perfect fit and style intrinsic of a couture gown. Eliana Ben-Zeev is a couture bridal house in California known for sophisticated, postmodern designs. Luxurious fabrics and passionate attention to detail are key elements of Eliana's signature style. Unique layering and textural blends add drama and movement bespeaking her previous training as a costume designer for theatre and opera houses. As the following pages will attest, finding a dream gown appropriate for an island wedding does not mean sacrificing elegance.
Wedding Flowers At The White Orchid Beach House: The White Orchid Beach House is one of just a few private wedding sites fronting a secluded sandy beach in the sunny southern region of Makena, arguably Maui's most breathtaking shore. A sweeping lawn sets the old estate apart from neighbors by a natural black lava wall that blends in nicely with the tropical foliage and royal palms landscaping the property. The site offers a rare glimpse of old Hawaii, with a rustic beach house that overlooks a panoramic view of neighboring islands Kaho'olawe and Molokini Crater.
As the CEO of A White Orchid Wedding, Carolee Higashino and her staff of wedding coordinators have planned beautiful events on the lawn area overlooking the ocean. She says the nostalgic feeling of the beach house is alluring to most couples, "If you are looking for marble and a grand staircase, the White Orchid Beach House is not the wedding site for you. The charm of the estate lies in its "Old Hawaii" ambience and, of course, the stunning ocean views. Carolee called upon Envisions Entertainment, one of Hawaii's largest event production companies, to assist with the intimate table setting. The addition of silk lanterns and a bamboo marquee draped with flowing ivory curtains created an understated elegance for our photo shoot. Florists Anny Heid, Sheryl Suzuki, and Eileen Woods-Takayesu designed table arrangements to reflect the nostalgia of the location. Woven lauhala baskets and Polynesian vases from the 1950's era grace the tables with splendid color. Flowing Thai silk lanterns complete the look of an intimate sunset dinner party, adding soft light and moody ambience - the epitome of casual island elegance.