Choosing Us – Laine & Brandon’s Maui Elopement

Love stories that begin later in life often carry a special kind of clarity, the kind that knows exactly what matters and isn’t afraid to choose it. Laine and Brandon’s Maui elopement at Ironwoods Beach was a beautiful reflection of that clarity: intentional, low-stress, and centered on love, family, and shared purpose.

Although Laine had visited the Big Island before, Maui was new for her, and Hawaii was entirely new for everyone else. From the start, they knew they didn’t want a traditional wedding filled with guest lists and complicated family dynamics. Instead, they wanted something simple and meaningful. When their three daughters began asking for a Hawaii vacation, inspiration struck: why not elope and turn the experience into a once-in-a-lifetime family trip? Rather than spending money on an extravagant ceremony, they chose to invest in memories together. It was a beautiful ceremony with their daughters and reflected everything they hold dear. Keep reading to see more of their special day!

A Family Affair

Their story is full of serendipity. Despite living just two blocks apart, Laine and Brandon met on Match.com. Their first date took place on New Year’s Day 2023, and it didn’t take long for things to feel right. After a successful weeklong trip, they introduced their kids the following August and soon began envisioning a future side by side. In January 2025, during a Dallas staycation, Brandon surprised Laine with a proposal at the Arboretum, complete with a secret photographer waiting to capture the moment.

Ironwoods Beach provided a breathtaking backdrop for their elopement, with sweeping cliffs, open ocean, and a sense of calm that made everything feel grounded. Laine, a healthcare professor and physician assistant, and Brandon, a CEO, are both active, growth-minded, and deeply devoted to their children. It was so special to them to have their kids by their side too, during the ceremony! Each daughter was blessed with a lei, it was so sweet! Their Maui elopement was about choosing intentionally, with love and confidence.

After the ceremony, their newlywed portraits became one of the most meaningful parts of the day, not just capturing Laine and Brandon as husband and wife, but celebrating the family they’ve already built together. Their three girls joined them, laughing, hugging close, and soaking in the moment with the ocean and cliffs behind them. The portraits felt warm and natural, filled with joy and connection, reflecting the heart of why they chose to elope in the first place. These images weren’t just about a wedding day, they were about a family stepping into a new chapter together, side by side.

Congratulations, Laine and Brandon! Your Maui elopement was thoughtful, heartfelt, and beautifully you. We hope you have the best time on Maui with your girls!

MAUI ELOPEMENT – EVENT DETAILS

Time Of Day: Sunset

Maui Wedding Planner:  Simple Maui Wedding

Maui Wedding Photography: Samantha of Karma Hill Photography

Onsite Coordinator: Lisa of Simple Maui Wedding

Maui Wedding Package: Maui Elopement Package #1 by Simple Maui Wedding

Maui Officiant: Peter Dagupion

Acoustic Musician: Kalani

Florals: Leis, Maui Elegance Bouquet by Dellables

Maui Wedding Location: Ironwoods Beach