Dillingham Ranch

Okay imagine the dreamiest, most romantic wedding venue ever.

Now triple your expectations. THAT'S Dillingham Ranch. From the lines of palm trees to the stunning building out front, and not to mention the stunning light drenched yard. There truly isn't a more lovely place to get married. Being only 10 minutes from the ocean helps too ;)

My husband and I knew we wanted a private location for our wedding and it didn't take long before we realised there were not too many options on Oahu. I did venue tours a year out from our wedding date and after visiting everywhere from Sunset Ranch to the Four Seasons Dillingham Ranch was the obvious winner.

This massive private estate ticked all the boxes. While other venues, like Kualoa Ranch, are visually stunning, they lack even remotely comfortable facilities. Dillingham Ranch was beautifully remodelled several years ago so the bathrooms and bedrooms are lovely and well suited for a black tie event. The drive onto the estate will take your breath away and the row of palms in the 'backyard' is beyond photogenic.

Dillingham Ranch does lack a robust presence online or on social media and this is indicative of the service you can expect. Siri, the events manager, was ideal to work with but she is not a wedding planner and Dillingham is not struggling to find couples that want to rent the venue. Dillingham will not roll out the red carpet like some other venues but they do not need too, Dillingham is perfect and if you choose it as your wedding venue 90% of the work is done for you as it is picture perfect.

BONUS TIP: Across the island shutting times are a nightmare (10PM? how is this acceptable) but because you have sole access to Dillingham, it is possible on occasion to have extended hours for a wedding which is a major bonus so the dancing can continue.

It is a really beautiful place to have a non-beach wedding. Most convenient to have the ceremony and reception all in one space.