Fisheye Studio

I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Joshua Fair, owner and director, of Fisheye Studio. Joshua has a great personality, he makes you laugh (which is great for a nervous bride and groom!) & is so genuine.

Fisheye Studio is a wonderful customer oriented video and photography company, they offer a variety of services to fit every couples needs and budget. While they specialize in Hawaii weddings Joshua recently was asked to shoot a wedding in Seattle. Never having been to the location before shooting the wedding could have been a challenge, but not for Fisheye Studio Being true professionals & proper preparation allowed them to film a beautiful wedding.
Check it out...

joshua + jennifer // seattle, wa // be the ball from Fisheye Studio on Vimeo.

For more information on Fisheye Studio visit their blog or website

Moana Surfrider, Waikiki - Nov.16, 2009

Congratulations to Lien & Eamon! The happy couple flew from California to get married here in Hawaii and were joined by friends & family from around the world. Thanks for letting us be part of you special day, it was so much fun!

The ceremony took place on the Moana Surfrider, Terrace. These beautiful florals were created by Designs by Hemingway.

The reception was held in the Lani Kai Room, where guests dined and danced the night away.For dessert guests were served delicious cake made by Sunshines Cake Creations.

Special thanks to the wonderfully talented Christie Pham Photography who took these wonderful photos!!

Rappeling for a cause..

As I've written over the past few weeks Katy Castillo Weddings participated in Special Olympics Hawaii "Over the Edge" fundraiser. Yesterday at the Sheraton Waikiki about 100 rappelers scaled down 31 stories for a great cause. Thanks again to all who donated.

Here are a few pictures....

Sheraton's Waikiki RumFire, supporters gathered to cheer on participants

Arnulfo beginning his decent down 31 stories (about 350 ft!)
Halfway there...

Safely on the ground with some Special Olympic Athletes

Boutonnieres For Every Groom...

Boutonnieres can be so under appreciated! But these creative designs will make any groom rethink what he's going wear. Vintage, eco-friendly or classic - you got to love these and they make a great keepsake.

Creamsicle Boutonniere & Yellow Polka Dot by Peppermint Cloud

Peacock Boutonniere by Emily K Botanic Studio

Shell Boutonniere by Fritts Rosenow

Vintage Teal Zipper by Libyball

Recycled Paper Flower by Jujubug

Update - Special Olympics "Over the Edge"

I am SO happy to announce we have exceeded our Special Olympics fundraising goal! Thank you to the wedding community & all our supporters who so generously donated.

Doug Fitch Music

Rev. Greg Christopherson

Sunshine's Cake Creations

See everyone November 13 at the Sheraton Waikiki!! Mahalo!

Update - Special Olympics "Over the Edge"

More donations have been received for Special Olympics "Over the Edge". A huge Mahalo to the following...

Renai Photography

Pacific Bride Guide

Beauty by Tania

We are only $575 from our goal!!

Update - Special Olympics "Over the Edge"

The donations have started coming in and I want to take a moment and thank everyone for their generous donations!

Big Mahalos!

Fish Eye Studio Inc.

CJ's Mobile DJ

Terra Photography

We are $725 from our goal!!

Special Olympics - Over the Edge - Help us reach our goal! !

Katy Castillo Weddings is so honored to be given the opportunity to participate in Over the Edge of Waikiki. But we can only be a part of this great fundraising event if we reach our donation goal.
WHY: A first of it's kind event to raise money for the Special Olympics.
WHAT: If we raise at least a $1000 for Special Olympics, a representative of Katy Castillo Weddings (Arnulfo Castillo, my brave husband!) will rappel for the cause down the tallest building in Waikiki.
31 stories!
WHERE: The Sheraton Waikiki's newest bar, the Edge of Waikiki, with an all new infinity pool and bar.
WHEN: November 13, Time to be announced. Your invited to join us at the Edge of Waikiki to support Arnulfo, as well as enjoy the music and drink/pupu specials.

Please help us reach our fundraising goal so we can participate in this event by donating HERE.

Check back on my blog frequently as I list who has generously donated to this great cause!

Sacred Heart Church & Halekulani - October 3, 2009

Congratulations Sonya & Micheal!
Their wedding ceremony took place at Sacred Heart Church then a reception followed at Halekulani. Guests were treated to awesome entertainment by James "Kimo" Opiana , a talented Lion Dance and 2 slide shows.
Sonya & Micheal's family and friends were so caring, they made the wedding day really special.
Thank you for letting us be a part of your wedding day!

Here is a beautifully created video by Crane Media of their wedding day.

Lanikuhonua, Kapolei - Sept. 27, 2009

Congratulations Chazlynne & Nathan!

Coordinating this celebration at Lanikuhonua was so much fun. The bride was creative and talented, choosing to make many of the items used to decorate her ceremony & reception. She even made the groomsmen ties! Here are a few pictures from the talented Renai Photography, who captured the wedding day memories. More photos to come!

Catamaran, Waikiki Wedding - Jessica & Dylan - August 19, 2009

Jessica and Dylan wanted a exciting yet private location for their wedding ceremony, chartering a catamaran was the perfect fit. After the couple said "I do" guests munched on yummy catered cuisine and took in the sights of Waikiki. More wonderful pictures taken by AinaKai can be found on our website gallery. Congratulations Jessica and Dylan!!

Sweet Scents

Brides looking for a perfume that is fresh, clean and not overpowering on their wedding day should visit Pacifica.com.
Fragrances like Hawaiian Ruby Guava, Tahitian Gardenia, & Waikiki Pikake smell like Hawaii.
Pacifica products are made with the finest sustainable raw materials, no animal ingredients & recycled packaging.
Our fav product is the solid perfumes, spill proof and the perfect size for a bride's purse.

Hotel Renew, Waikiki

It's no suprise that Hotel Renew is ranked #1 on Trip Advisor. We were recently invited for a tour of the eco-conscious hotel, as soon as entering the front doors you can't help but feel relaxed. With only 72 guest rooms, the hotel keeps the focus on their guests. Each room feels like a home away from home with their comfy platform beds, gentle art, dimmable lighting and complimentary WiFi. Not to mention each room has containers for recycling.
Located only a block from the beach, Hotel Renew is the perfect eco-friendly location for a Waikiki stay!

Pacific Wedding Guide

We are so happy to now be a part of the Pacific Wedding Guide, a guide to planning your wedding in the pacific.

This wonderful website not only lists top notch wedding vendors, but oodles of wedding planning information. And if that does not satisfy you check out their daily updated blog.

Shriner's Beach Club, Waimanalo

Check out our website as we recently added pictures to our photo gallery from a wedding we coordinated at the Shriner's Beach Club, Waimanalo.

We were so lucky to assist Melissa and Justin with their special day.

Thanks to Dulce by Visionari who took these wonderful pictures.

Engagement Photo Sessions

Most of us don't have a photographer follow us around everyday. We recommend our clients book an engagement photo session (if it's in their budget) with their wedding photographer so they are comfortable and relaxed on their wedding day.
Using the sites of the Haleiwa, North Shore as a backdrop Wendy and Eric of L'Amour Photography took these fresh and modern engagement pictures. After seeing these pictures I can't wait to see the images they capture at the wedding!!
(Grace & Kevin, only 90 days till your wedding!)

Dancing down the Aisle!

I love fun fun weddings!! Nothing quite sets the tone for your wedding day then dancing down the aisle!! Enjoy & Happy Friday!

Lanikuhonua, Kathy & Beau - July 12, 2009

Last Sunday we had the pleasure of coordinating a wonderful wedding at Lanikuhonua, the bride and and groom were great to work with.

Kathy & Beau wanted a fun wedding that really captured their unique personal style. Elegant centerpieces added color to the guest tables while a Japanese lantern "chandelier" was the focal point in the clear top tent. Many thanks to the vendors at this event.The weather was perfect and it was so much fun to see their guests dance the night away!

We wish them all the best on their new journey to live in Japan!! Congratulations Kathy & Beau!!

Professional photos of this event from Shawn Starr coming soon...

Cute Cupcake!

These gorgeous cupcake wrappers from Paper Orchid add a little something special to your cupcakes. The wrappers can also be used to decorate votive candles.

Catamaran, Waikiki Wedding - Aron & Julee - June 18, 2009

Congratulations to Julee & Aron!!
The sunset wedding started with guests boarding the Outrigger Catamaran on the sand of Waikiki Beach. For a truely intimate wedding the catamaran was privately chartered, with guests enjoying drinks, pupus & live music. Sea turtles & rainbows made the evening extra special. These wonderful pictures were taken by Terra Photography, thanks for sharing Barbara!!

Personalized Wedding Cake Stands

Using a cake stand can add an extra special element to your wedding cake.

Raise the Cake offers cake stands that can be custom designed to match your wedding or choose one that has been pre-designed.

Wedding Expo 2009 - Hawaii Convention Center

This weekend was the Wedding Expo held at the Hawaii Convention Center.

It was an exciting event as one of our past weddings we coordinated was featured at the Honolulu Design Center booth. Wonderful pictures of the wedding, taken by Alecia Hoyt, were on display.
Katy made the floral centerpiece arrangement, seen in the pictures.

Katy Castillo Weddings is Skyping!!

Many of our client's don't reside in Hawaii or they are too busy to get together for meetings.

So we are now offering Skype video as another form of communication!!

This technology allow us to continue assisting couples in creating the wedding they have always envisioned!

Mamma Mia Wedding Fair at Kahala Mall

This past Saturday Kahala Mall in partnership with Hawaii Bride & Groom held the Mama Mia sponsored by Hawaii Bride and Groom magazine.

One of our fav vendors Sunshine's Cake Creations was there giving out yummy samples of their most popular flavors: strawberry guava, pineapple coconut, chocolate Guinness, and green tea.

Don't forget to ask about their vegan & organic cakes!

Sake & Sushi for a Good Cause!!

Alicia Hollinger from Milestone Events Hawaii is teaming up with Tokoname Restaurant and Sushi Bar in Kailua for a great cause. This benefit is for a great lady with a rare cancer, Mahealani Holzman has Burkitt's Lymphoma. Offered at the benefit will be some great sake and sushi, also local businesses from Kailua will be raffling off goods and certificates.

All the proceeds from this event will go to her and her family for the medical expenses.

Tickets are $45 . The date is Wednesday April 29 from 6 -8pm.

Call now to reserve your tickets 262-8656.

Happy Earth Day!!

Planning a Eco-friendly wedding is fun and easy. It's also a great way to keep Hawaii beautiful!!

Wedding Photos by: Angela Smith Photography

Eco-Friendly Wedding Dress by: Deborah Lindquist

Eco-Friendly Wedding Invites: Pink Lily Press

Recycled Candle Holder: Are Natural

Single-use bamboo collection of plates, serveware and utensils, 100% bamboo and Certified Organic : Bambu Photo by: Wendell Weber

Pear Place Card by: Martha Stewart

Lanikuhonua pictures added to KCW website gallery

A few weeks ago I blogged about a wedding I coordinated at Lanikuhonua, Kapolei.
I promised professional pictures, and they are here!
Please view them on my website at http://www.katycastillo.com/gallery06.htm

Special thanks to Eddy of Renai Photography for taking & sharing these wonderful pictures.

For those of you looking for a wedding photographer, look no further! Eddy is amazing!!

Halekulani Hotel - Brian & Michelle - March 20, 2009 Halekulani Hotel

Congratulations to Michelle & Brian!!

I was so lucky to be able to assist this wonderful couple on their special day!!

Michelle & Brian traveled to Hawaii all the way from Wisconsin, it was their first time to the islands!

The reception & ceremony was held at the Hau Terrace, Halekulani Hotel. Here are a few pictures taken by my staff, professional pictures will be posted to my website gallery in the future.

Special thanks to Yvonne Floral & Decor for creating the beautiful floral arrangements & Les Saisons for providing the fabulous linens.

Hale Koa Hotel - Patrice & Kevin - March 7, 2009

Congratulations to Patrice & Kevin!!
I worked with Patrice & Kevin for almost a year in preparation of their big day. We had hoped for sunny skies as the ceremony was to be held outdoors in the Hale Koa Hotel, Maile Garden unfortunately the weather did not cooperate and the wedding was moved indoors.
But Patrice & Kevin were so much in love it didn't bother them a bit!! They were just happy to spend their special day with family and friends.
Special thanks to Alyssa Turner (an awesome photographer!) of Alyssa Pix for providing these pictures, more photos can be found in the gallery section of my website.

"Heading to the Wedding" - Teaching young children how to behave at a wedding

I hear from brides that they are sometimes concerned about how young children invited to their wedding will behave. This book would make a great gift for your little guests.
Sara F. Shacter has published a wonderful children's Heading to the Wedding written to educate young children about what a wedding is like and how to behave.

The book centers around a young boy and girl who think of gatherings as parties where they can dress up and have fun. But they learn how to enjoy themselves and respect the special day of the bride and groom. The book also includes a glossary of wedding words.

Lanikuhonua, Hon & David - Febuary 22, 2009

Congratulations David & Hon!!
What a the pleasure it was working with Hon & David, they were such a fun couple!
The ceremony & reception took place at Lanikuhonua, Kapolei. The day was beautiful, with perfect weather!! Here are a few pictures my staff took, professional pictures will be posted to the photo gallery on my website soon.

You may notice all the decorations on the beach, please note decorations are no longer allowed on state beaches. This wedding's permit was granted before the new state beach rules took effect.

Emi Hart - Unique Wedding Ceremony Music

Congrats to Emi Hart singer/songwriter who was featured in Midweek's entertainment section.
http://www.midweek.com/content/columns/thelowdown_article/emi_hart/

Emi is a beautiful singer with a rich voice. She is also a great person with a huge heart.
She can sing and play songs written by other artists but writes many of her own unique songs as well. Ask her to write a custom song for you ceremony!!

Several of my client's have had the pleasure of her playing at their wedding ceremony. If you are looking of unique singer for your wedding ceremony, Emi is the one!!

Relaxing on the Big Island!!

Believe it or not it's almost been two years since my last vacation!! So last weekend I took some time off and traveled to the Big Island for my birthday. I'm so glad I did, it was really relaxing.

Of course my mind is always on weddings!! I stayed at a fabulous bed & breakfast who also rents out the property for weddings & receptions.

Honu Kai Bed & Breakfast is only 10 minutes from Kailua-Kona, which makes it convenient for your wedding guests. Hosts Wendi & Dave wonderful, genuine, caring people. They go above and beyond!!

The beautifully manicured lawn is used for the ceremony while their large lanai can seat up to 100 guests. The front yard can be set up for music and dancing.

Thanks Wendi & Dave for a fantastic stay!

These beautiful clips made by artist Mona Lisa. These fun flowers can be placed in your hair or clipped on your clothes. Her latest line is called Geisha Fabulous.

Green Living Expo

Blaisdell Center - January 30 & 31, 2009

4pm to 8pm Friday
10am to 4pm Saturday

Cost: FREE!!

Katy Castillo Weddings will be at the Green Living Expo this weekend!
Stop by the booth & say Hi. I'd love to share my experiences and knowledge on making your wedding "green".

We'll have a "green" event design on display and will be handing out a cute Eco-friendly wedding favor. It's a surprise, you'll have to visit us at the booth to find out what it is!!

We are excited to also have in our booth Vikki, owner of Sunshine's Cake Creations, who will have samples of her YUMMY vegan and organic cakes. I bet you won't even be able to tell the difference from regular cake.

The Expo will be fun and full of great Eco-friendly products and services. The best part is it's FREE! Come out, visit us and show your support of living green.

2009 Wedding Expo

This weekend was the Wedding Expo at the Blaisdell Center.

I went in support of vendors I work with on a regular basis and to check out some new vendors I hope to work with in the future.

I had some fun while visiting Bambooth. I will be working with these professionals at a wedding I'm planning in May. It took me a bit to figure out where to look but by the last shot I was a pro!
Photo booths are a fun way to entertain guests at your wedding.

Pink Lily Press

Bright, vibrant and fresh are all words I would use to describe Pink Lily Press

Owner, Jennifer, creates create high quality stationary for all occasions, I love her wonderful designs.

Pink Lily Press offers an array of wedding invites, personal stationary and more. They can also create custom designs.

Visit http://www.pinklilypress.com/ for more designs and ordering info.

Special Promotion!!

I've teamed up with AinaKai Photography to offer a special promotion.

Book both Katy Castillo Weddings & AinaKai Photography for your 2009 wedding and receive 10 percent off both wedding coordination and photography packages. Contracts to both vendors need to be completed by May 31, 2009.

AinaKai Photography provides elegant, natural and artistic wedding photography for discriminating clients. They are fabulous! Check them out at http://www.ainakai.com/

Hawaii Wedding Resource

We're now listed on Elite Hawaii Weddings!!

Check it out http://www.EliteHawaiiWeddings.com/

2008 "Mahalo" Party

I love coordinating weddings but I couldn't do it with out the help of talented wedding professionals. As a way to say thanks I host small party every year for all the vendors to relax & mingle. Some of my past & current clients attend as well.

This year the party was held at the Ice Bar, Honolulu Design Center.

Yummy pupus & drinks were served. Everyone took home sweet treats...we created a candy buffet featuring classic candies. Vikki from Sunshine Cake Creations made a delicious cake & her famous sugar cookies.

Thanks to Paul Herchig for taking pictures!

Signature Wedding Cocktail

For couples looking to reduce their wedding reception bar costs, serving a signature wedding cocktail can be a great solution.

Rather than having a full open bar, serve your guests beer, wine, (if budget allows champagne for the toast) and a signature cocktail.

Choose a yummy concoction, give it a flirtatious name and put a sign in your coordinating wedding colors/theme announcing it on the bar.

Two of my favorite wedding cocktails I discovered in a vintage drink recipe book, published in Hawaii, "Terrific Tropicals". I'd love to share them with you!

"Hawaiian Sunset"

1-1/2 oz. Light Rum

1 oz. Passion Fruit Juice

1 oz. Orange Juice

1/2 the juice of a fresh lime

-Mix with ice in shaker & serve.

"Orchids Kiss"

2 oz. Light Rum

2 oz. Guava Juice
2 oz. Pineapple Juice
Dash of Grenadine

-Build all your ingredients in order over ice in a 12 oz. glass

Cheers!!!

Amy & Scott - August 30, 2008

August was a whirlwind of weddings for me. One of the weddings I had the pleasure of coordinating was Amy & Scott R. Their family & friends flew to Hawaii from all over to be a part of this special event. They were such a fun couple!

We created a beautiful candy buffet, with sweet treats for the guests to take home.

Paul Herchig was the photographer (Thanks to Paul for the photos you see here!)

Sunshine Cake Creations made a fabulous cake, exactly to the bride's specifications.

A Gift as Unique as Your Bridesmaids

Need a bridesmaid's gift, but they seem to have it all?

This cute purse is hand made by fair trade workers in Mexico, using folded recycled candy wrappers. Designed by Ecoist, they create stylish items while remaining environmentally conscience.

Making the "Green List"!

Katy Castillo Weddings has made the Red Magazine Hawaii (an online magazine) "Green List"!

The list features local companies that protect our island environment by offering "green" services (Katy Castillo Weddings offers "green" wedding coordination, in case you don't know!).

I checked out the other companies also featured on the list and I have to say I was honored to be a part of such a wonderful group of business.

Check it out at....http://www.hawaiiredmagazine.com/