Leandra posted a video of the wedding on social media on 5/11, garnering hundreds of thousands of views for its unique location and timing.
The ceremony was planned for sunrise. To make it on time, the couple and their guests woke up at 3h. Three boats departed the dock between 4h and 4h30, navigating in the dark to reach the wedding site.
"We wanted to see how much our family and friends loved us, so we asked them to wake up at 3h", the couple humorously shared in the video.
Having grown up in Oahu, Leandra and Daniel knew that the tide was lowest at dawn, exposing a sandbar in the middle of the bay.
The location also holds special significance for the couple. It is where Leandra’s family scattered her father’s ashes and a place Daniel’s late grandfather and brother frequently visited.
"It’s a wonderful way for us to feel our departed loved ones are present with us", the bride said.
Preparations happened quickly in the dark. Daniel and his groomsmen took the first boat to transport flowers and chairs. The bride and bridesmaids did their makeup on the boat.
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The couple’s wedding at sunrise in the middle of the sea, on 21/6. Photo: instagram/cocolanigardens |
Leandra stated that despite sleep deprivation, the ceremony’s atmosphere was perfect and intimate. The brilliant golden sunlight of dawn enveloped everyone, with gentle breezes and calm waves lapping at their feet.
"I didn’t realize the sun was rising behind me because I was so focused on the moment with just the two of us", the bride shared.
They first met in college, but began dating 13 years later. The couple now co-owns a business and is expecting their first child next spring.
Nhat Minh (Source: People)
