Kanoe was raised in Guam and moved to America to attend college. Her and Mike’s adorable love story began when they met online. Kanoe's trick for making an impression on their first date was walking directly into a pole! Actually it was a total accident, but she obviously caught Mike’s eye since they made it to date #2 despite Kanoe's little incident on date #1, which then of course became a running joke throughout the rest of their relationship!).
One of the things that made Kanoe and Mike's wedding so special is the way they incorporated several elements of Kanoe’s heritage into the day. Cherished family members greeted each of their guests with shell Leis from Guam at the ceremony, guests went home with hand carved 'Legend of the Two Lovers' favors, and they presented their families with traditional Leis as part of their ceremony. Mike’s family was represented as well with jars of honey made by Mike’s mom at each guest’s place setting. Kanoe’s attention to detail was never ending, and their incredible planner, Ashely from Midwestern Bride, styled each thoughtful display perfectly. There was a lemonade & macaroon station for guests to enjoy upon arrival, handmade programs which served as fans with built-in tissue holders, a tiered card box made by the bride’s mom and mirror signage also hand-lettered by the bride’s mom. Cocktail table centerpieces were pictures of Kanoe & Mike’s sweet bulldog, Tootsie! And not to mention a delicious dessert display including sweet treats made with Kanoe & Mike’s favorite family recipes and guilty pleasures, such as Aunt Katie’s Cherry Cheesecake and Noe’s Animal Cookie Delight!
From start to finish, this wedding was truly a reflection of Kanoe & Mike! It was so refreshing seeing the amount of thought that was put into each moment of their celebration. Their wedding day even ended with a light rain shower that brought about the most beautiful double rainbow. We happened to notice it before first dances were set to begin, and had to sneak the newlyweds out for a few portraits. Little did we know, rainbows are Kanoe’s ‘thing’ - they are especially common in Guam, and she is overjoyed every time she sees one here in the US. Kanoe gushed, cried, and couldn't believe her and Mike were blessed with a rainbow on their special day. It was the most beautiful sight seeing them dance together with their venue and a beautiful rainbow behind them, and we couldn't be more grateful to have captured such a special celebration!!
Love, Kelsy & Butch
