Culture + Weddings: Pacific Islander / Hawaii

Crista + Max planned and re-planned their Wedding at the height of covid and the repercussions of it’s mandates and restrictions on events. They ultimately decided to still go through with their Wedding even though it would be much smaller than they would prefer, or that their cultural norms would normally indicate. Being able to witness this super-intimate day was such an honor, and even in the smallest ways, Crista’s heritage and her love for her family and culture showed through so strongly. I asked Crista to share some details from her background, culture, and Special Day, and here is what she said!

1. Tell me yours and your partners names!
Max and Crista Ballantyne

2. When was your wedding?
May 16, 2021

3. What cultural backgrounds / heritages do you and/or your partner identify with?
I was born and raised in Hawaii- I am Filipino, Pacific Islander, Japanese and Mexican. My husband is Irish and Mexican

4. How did you incorporate one or both of these cultures into your Wedding Day?
A typical wedding for us would have been much larger, with a big buffet of local food. However, due to Covid we ended up only having about 18 or so people. So we were only able to incorporate certain things. On our wedding day my mother passed down to me her Hawaiian gold bracelet that has my name on it. Usually if you’re from Hawai’i, it’s common to be gifted Hawaiian gold bracelets, or necklace engraved nameplate when you have children, or for graduation gifts etc. In my family, we pass down from mother to daughter on very special occasion such as having children, or getting married. We also had a quick money dance, which usually at local weddings is during the first dance for the couple. And guests offer newlyweds money while they dance or shower them with money during their first dance.

5. Any advice for other couples looking to incorporate their own unique heritages and stories into their Big Day?  Especially if they come from different backgrounds?
My biggest advice if you come from different backgrounds is to sit down and have a conversation about what really matters to both of you. It can be overwhelming in general getting ready for the big day and trying to incorporate so much of what is “traditional” and expected can be a lot. 

Planning:  Kayloe Bridal 
Venue & Floral: Brier & Ivy
Photography:  Grace Helen Photography
Rentals:  Great Jones NW 
Cake:  Cake Nouveau 
Dress:  Thea Bridal   
Rings: Deena Bassam  
Signature Scents: Le Labo