For Michelle, Maui will always be home — and there was no better place for her to say “I do” than right here on the island where her story began. When she met Brayden, her charming Southern groom, while attending college in Tennessee, it was the beginning of a beautiful love story that brought two worlds together. Their wedding at Gather on Maui was a heartfelt celebration of that union, set against the lush beauty and ocean breeze of Wailea.
Maui Wedding Planner: Makena Weddings
Maui Wedding Photographer: Kristy Taylor Photography
Maui Wedding Content Creator: Maui Social Media BTS
Click here to see a fun peek into their day!
Maui Wedding Venue: Gather on Maui
Minister: Reverend Tino Rosete
Flowers: Maui Palm Tree Floral
Pedestals: Altered Maui
Rentals: Rio Event Design
Signage: Miss B Calligraphy
Cake: Sweet on Maui
DJ: Take 3 Events / DJ Mike Penn
A Ceremony with Island Roots
Michelle and Brayden exchanged vows on the wedding knoll at Gather on Maui, a serene lawn perched just above the sparkling coastline. The ceremony design was timeless and airy, with crisp white pedestals adorned with clouds of delicate baby’s breath, letting the natural beauty of Maui take center stage.
As the gentle tradewinds rustled the palm trees and the ocean glimmered in the background, the couple said their vows surrounded by close family and friends. There was laughter, a few tears, and the undeniable joy of a homecoming — Michelle returning to the island she loves, hand in hand with the love of her life.
A Moment Just for Them
After the ceremony, Michelle and Brayden slipped away to a secluded oceanfront location nearby for romantic portraits. With the waves crashing against the rocks and golden light spilling across the horizon, it was the perfect moment to soak in their newlywed bliss.
These portraits captured their quiet connection — the way he looked at her like she was the only one in the world, and how her smile said everything words couldn’t. It was one of those peaceful pauses in the middle of the celebration, where everything slows down and just feels… right.
Sunset Reception at the Lower Pond
As the sun dipped lower, the celebration moved to the Lower Pond at Gather on Maui — a dreamy outdoor reception space with twinkle lights, natural greenery, and reflections of the surrounding palms. The couple and their guests dined al fresco under the Maui sky, sharing toasts, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
The reception was the perfect blend of Southern warmth and island soul — a nod to Brayden’s roots and Michelle’s homecoming. From the heartfelt speeches to the dancing under the stars, the evening was filled with aloha, connection, and the kind of joy that stays with you.
Michelle and Brayden’s wedding was more than just beautiful — it was authentic, intimate, and deeply meaningful. Gather on Maui provided the perfect backdrop, offering both stunning ceremony and reception spaces within walking distance, allowing the day to flow naturally and effortlessly.
For couples dreaming of a destination wedding that still feels personal and grounded, this celebration was a reminder that home isn’t just a place — it’s who you’re with.
Congratulations, Michelle + Brayden — may your journey together be filled with sweet Southern charm, Hawaiian sunsets, and a love that grows stronger with every wave. Mahalo from all of us at Makena Weddings!
