Everything was above and beyond! Truly magical venue, food, florals and service!
I recently got married at Hualalai and had the most incredible vacation (and wedding!!!) with my friends and family. We were somewhat reluctant at first to want to select Hualalai as our venue because the rates might be cost prohibitive for some. After a week-ish in paradise with many of our best friends and family, however, we have no regrets with regard to choosing Hualalai for our entirely magical weekend.
What really sets Hualalai apart is the service. We had bridesmaids getting ready in my suite and groomsmen getting ready in the locker room -- everyone's stuff was everywhere and somehow these magical people were able to get all these items exactly where they needed to go. Even more than that, my husband left his blazer on a chair and we found it neatly hanging in our closet when we returned... How did they know?! We were very surprised and impressed.
All of my wedding guests who stayed at Hualalai shared similar experiences, many were initially apprehensive to stay there because of the cost, but now I think swear by the Four Seasons brand and will probably be clients for life... All the little details -- the friendly staff that always say Aloha, the amazing bathroom soaps and the immaculately appointed rooms -- it all makes it 100% worth it.
For the date we requested we were asked to commit to a room block, which was a little scary at first - because it was a lot of money to be on the hook for if guests didn't choose to stay there, but it all worked out and despite the contract being a little unclear in places, the events team patiently walked us through the details and appeared to be somewhat flexible if we weren't able to meet our exact commitment (although we did and then some), so can't confirm how flexible or inflexible they actually would be if we couldn't meet our commitment.
Our guests were given a website link where they could register for the available dates at our negotiated group rate. They were also able to call in to reserve rooms via phone.
As far as my experience planning the wedding itself, that was also a breeze. Working with Marissa was a pleasure and she definitely helped allay some of my concerns about cost. She was patient, organized and prompt to reply to my questions and requests. She also was very thorough in going over the ins and outs of each estimate, even with my sometimes demanding and hard pressing parents... Definitely stress relieving when you are spending so much money on one day.
The food for the event was outstanding - many of my guests exclaimed that it was the best wedding food they'd ever had. Our favorites were the mushroom and goat cheese ravioli, the savory cones and the tropical wedding cake flavor. It was SO delicious - both my husband and I wish we'd eaten more!
The in house florist, Heidi, was also terrific. Her tropical designs were so unique and beautiful, I couldn't have dreamt of more gorgeous arrangements. I felt so special and honored to carry the bouquet she made for me, it was the most beautiful bouquet I'd ever seen! I felt like absolute royalty.
I couldn't recommend this resort higher both for a vacation and hosting an event. Everything was amazing and despite the high price tag, the value you receive makes it totally worth it.
Thank you Hualalai, Marissa, Heidi and team!