Curator’s statement
Kona Village, often considered the number-one resort in Hawai'i, offers barefoot luxury with Hawaiian tradition woven into every detail. Known for its incredible design and exceptional cuisine, it’s also a favorite for celebrities seeking exclusivity. I designed and planned an intimate wedding here for a dear family friend, and the setting couldn’t have been more fitting. From the welcome luau and “Island Roots” dinner to the wedding itself and farewell brunch, the resort presented a stunning backdrop for an unforgettable week.
The Fora Difference
Book with Marlan to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Unlock perks by contacting Marlan to book your trip.
Wedding week celebrations
The festivities began on Moana Lawn with a luau welcome dinner: tiki torches glowing against the ocean, Polynesian dancers, live Hawaiian music, and a fire dancer finale. Guests mingled on the grass overlooking the beach, enjoying sushi, short ribs, and mango sorbet.
Welcome luau on Moana Lawn
The next night, the Island Roots rehearsal dinner took place at the Kiawe Grove. This was the bride’s absolute favorite as it honored tradition and was a tribute to the surroundings, with the meal being prepared from the island’s bounty (including Kona Village’s on-site farm).
Rehearsal dinner under the kiawe trees
The wedding ceremony unfolded between two palm trees on a lush lawn (sheltered from the sea breeze) lined with ginger flowers. It was followed by a reception under a canopy of stars at the ʻOhana Kauhale. Rosewood’s culinary director was in the family suite’s kitchen preparing every dish for the wedding dinner.
Ceremony floral nest
Beach & water activities
Guests spent their mornings on Kona Village’s pristine stretch of the Kohala Coast, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and snorkeling to spot colorful fish right off the beach.
Lagoon on the event grounds
Garden path to the beach view
Hale accommodations
Guests stayed in traditional standalone hale with thatched roofs, outdoor showers, and lanais, each offering privacy, serene views, and a sense of luxurious Hawaiian design. The bride and groom had a honeymoon-worthy beach hale, while the family enjoyed a spacious four-bedroom ʻOhana Kauhale with it’s own backyard pool and fire pit—perfect for game night and s’mores. Guests were accommodated in hale tucked among gardens or dramatic lava rock formations, allowing everyone to enjoy the resort’s natural beauty and tranquility.
Getting ready at Ohana Pool Four Bedroom Kauhale
Bride and groom's beach hale
Another view of the beach hale
Need to know
Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, is more than just a destination—it’s an experience rooted in place, history, and connection. As a setting for a wedding, it was unmatched: spacious enough to host multiple events, yet intimate enough to keep everyone close.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Hawai'i page.
Travel Advisor
Marlan Willardson
Get in touch with Marlan
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can expect a response from Marlan within 1–2 business days. You’ll also be subscribed to our traveler newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).