Erwin and Madoka’s super intimate elopement in Oahu, Hawaii felt straight out of a fairytale. Throughout their relationship, they’ve dealt with so much long distance. Madoka was born and raised here in Hawaii, while Erwin lived in New York for the bulk of their relationship. Yet meeting these two and hearing them share their story with me, just goes to show how distance truly can make the heart grow fonder (as annoyingly cliche as that phrase is.)

On the day of their elopement, they both chose to get ready at the GORGEOUS Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Waikiki. This hotel, with it’s pink walls and tropical island vibes, so perfectly emulates what is so beautiful about the islands. Erwin and Madoka’s elopement was so small, they only had Madoka’s mom and brother there as witnesses. Their day truly expressed to me the beauty of why I love intimate elopements. With elopements, the day becomes all about the love two people have for one another, and nothing else. There’s no DJ, guests favors, or table decor to worry about. Just a guy and a girl and ready to start their beautiful life together.

After doing long distance for so long, after their elopement, Madoka finally moved out to New York to be with Erwin. I couldn’t be more happy for these two. They even brought along sparklers and smoke bombs to make their bride and groom portraits even more fun. I loved the creativity they brought to it, but most of all, what I’ll remember most about their big day is the look on Erwin’s face whenever he looked at his new bride. Gahhh, I truly love my job and the fact that I get to capture such sweet love stories like this one. Erwin and Madoka, everyone! I hope their gallery puts a smile on your face. I know it did mine. 

Interested in having me photograph YOUR elopement in the Hawaiian islands? Reach out HERE and let’s tell your beautiful love story together babe! What do ya say? 😉 

Lindsey Roman is an adventurous, destination wedding and intimate elopement photographer based out of Oahu, Hawaii but travels worldwide. She lives for outdoor adventures, intimate moments, and candid images. Her style is raw, passionate, and authentic. She believes in chasing sunsets, laughing too hard, and most importantly: capturing genuine moments that evoke feeling over perfectly posed photographs.