An Intimate, Tropical Wedding at the Sugarman Estate in Maui, Hawaii

Laura Williams (28 and a retail manager) crossed paths with Star Jackson (27 and a hospitality manager) as students while crossing the quad of the University of Alabama campus. “I told him I liked his shoes,” Laura admits of Star's showstopping purple and teal Adidas sneakers. Six years later, the couple’s Maui wedding at the Sugarcane Estate mirrored their initial vibrant connection. "We wanted our wedding to be a mix of old Hawaii and bohemian chic," Laura says, who exchanged vows and traditional Hawaiian wedding leis alongside Star at the Keawala’i Congregational Church in Makena, Hawaii. An intimate outdoor reception for 35 guests followed, where hula dancers kept the celebration going strong. "Since all of our guests were traveling great distances to celebrate with us, it was important that we give them the full Hawaiian experience," Laura says. As the moon rose over the ocean and sprawling green lawn, dinner and drinks were served on Kona wooden farm tables set with candles and lush garland runners made with rich pink and purple tropical flowers. Overhead, canopies were hung with delicate floral leis, adding to the night's romantic, enchanting vibe. Wendy Laurel Photography captured every bit of the event's blush pink, burgundy and fern green palette, all of which fit the breathtaking surroundings. As the night came to a close, each attendee received a locally made favor: A box of cookies from Maui Sweet Cakes for the men, and necklaces by designer Sophie Grace for the women. “Maui is a sacred place to us,” Laura says. “And I think we did a nice job of showing our guests the proper Maui experience.” —Carolyn Meers