As the the light at the end of the pandemic tunnel starts shining on us all, you may be planning your dream wedding, or finally able to have the wedding that you pushed off all year. Maui, Hawaii now allows visitors to enter upon receiving a negative COVID test. This means you can host your Maui, Hawaii destination wedding during COVID! We will give you some tips, tricks and information to make life easier while planning your big day.

Why have a destination wedding?

Having a destination wedding allows for all of your loved ones to be in the same place together. Not only this, but you are in an exciting destination! You have your absolute favorite people to make and share new memories with. You can even combine your honeymoon with your destination wedding! Once having your beautiful wedding in Maui, Hawaii, now you can enjoy the island or even island hop to have a romantic honeymoon getaway, Hawaiian style.

Some couples choose a certain destination because it is where they met, or their favorite place to travel to. Others choose a destination based on the beauty of the destination, their culture or where they grew up. Many destination weddings have a smaller guest list, which ends up making the reception more affordable and intimate with your closest friends and family. Plus, there is something very exciting about getting whisked away and married in paradise!

Is Maui, Hawaii the perfect location for a wedding during the COVID-19 pandemic?

YES! In our opinion, it has been a special place, this entire year. Although the pandemic has extremely impacted our economy, it was also a historical time for our local residents.
We experienced Hawaii with little to no tourists. This meant empty beaches and zero traffic! I cannot remember the last time I saw the beaches without foot prints. Now more than ever this is still a great time to have a wedding in paradise! As there is some effort involved in traveling here, many people choose to stay in the comfort of their homes and wait out the pandemic.  YOU can have a special and unforgettable destination wedding, while supporting the local economy that has been waiting to reopen for almost a year.

As many people have rescheduled their weddings and many place destinations are not allowing large weddings at this time or even entry into their region, it is important to book the venue that you have dreamed of, and the vendors that you want!

Getting tested for Covid-19 before traveling to Hawaii

Currently on Mach 31st 2021 Hawaii travel restrictions require documentation of a negative COVID-19 test (even if you have already been vaccinated) in order to avoid a quarantine. (Please check with the current requirements through the safe travels link below)

This test must be Hawaii State Approved from one of the “trusted testing and travel partners”. Hawaii only accepts the Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT). No testing is provided at the airport. You must have your results by the time you board your flight to Hawaii. Follow steps 1-4 to assist you in traveling to Hawaii.

1. Register with the Safe Travels program online
2. Take NAAT State approved test 72 hours before your flight to Hawaii.
3. Upload the PDF version of your results to your Safe Travels account. Make sure to print out your results as well for the arrival line at the airport.
4. 24 hours before your flight, take the health questionnaire in your Safe Travels account. Save the QR code assigned to you for arrival purposes.

-Travelers of all ages are subject to pre-testing

-Individuals are responsible for the costs which are minimal

-After getting tested, please practice safe measures so that you can help us keep our islands safe!

-If you do not take the test 3 days before traveling, you will be subject to a 10 day quarantine upon arrival.

-Results are not ready by the time you leave? Then upon arriving in Hawaii you must quarantine for the duration of your stay

-Make sure you closely read and follow all instructions very specifically and everything will be smooth sailing…or actually smooth flying

*We recommend doing a secondary COVID-19 test after a couple of days upon your arrival to Hawaii. This helps reduce the spread, keeping everyone safe.

Bottom line, make sure to get a COVID-19 test before traveling so that you can enjoy Hawaii!

It is time to get planning! Your dream wedding no longer needs to be put on hold! Now that you know about how to have a Hawaii destination wedding during Covid, you can be ready for some fun! Check out our article that goes more into depth about what it’s like to travel to Hawaii during a pandemic.

If you are looking for the perfect cocktail catering services for your wedding or a personal bartender for an over the top personal tiki cocktail happy hour, we have got you covered! Aloha Bars is a full service cocktail catering company. We create delicious handcrafted cocktails,tropical beverages and experiences for guests of all ages to enjoy. Check out our website or instagram to learn more and book your wedding or private event with us!

Chocolatini Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients:

How to make it:

Blueberry Mint Cocktail

Ingredients:

How to make it:

Saint Patricks Day started as a religious celebration in the 17th Century to commemorate the life of Saint Patrick and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland. This “feast day” always took place on the anniversary of the death of Saint Patrick, which was believed to be March 17th. Now a days, this holiday is known for gathering with your friends, wearing green if you don’t want to get pinched, and celebrating by having a drink… or 5! There are many different types of special Saint Paddy’s day drinks. People all across the U.S. will be looking for the perfect beverage to enjoy, so read here to see the five most popular Saint Patricks day cocktail drinks.

Irish Coffee:

Now, coffee cocktails are a direct jolt of caffeine and booze. This makes it a perfect drink to start or end the night! Irish coffee is a classic coffee mixed drink. With the combination of sweetened coffee, Irish Whiskey, and whipped cream, this delicious yet cozy drink is very easy to make!

Step 1: Warm Your mugs. Let hot water sit in your glass mugs, and then pour it out.

Step 2: Dissolve brown sugar in hot coffee and then add the whiskey. Granulated sugar is ok too, but the caramel and molasses from the brown sugar will pair well with the whiskey.

Step 3: Add your whipped cream! Home made whipped cream will make for the best texture. Pour into your drink and it is ready to be served!

Baileys Irish Floats

These make for a killer combination that doubles as a dessert and cocktail. Definitely do not hold back on the chocolate syrup with these drinks!

Ingredients:
6 Scoops Vanilla Ice cream
1 cups Guinness Beer
1/2 cup Baileys Irish cream
1/4 cup Chocolate syrup

Start by scooping 3 scoops of ice cream each into two tall glasses. Pour 1 cup Guinness beer and 1/4 cup Baileys over each serving. Drizzle with chocolate syrup and serve right away! Yummy!

Shamrock Sour Cocktail

This drink is so delicious that it might actually become your Saint Patricks day beverage!

Ingredients:
-2 tablespoons lime juice
-1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
-1/4 cup simple syrup
-2 ounces Irish whiskey
-1 tiny drop of green food coloring
-lime wedges for garnish

Once you gather all of the ingredients, combine them and shake well, then strain over ice. Now garnish with a lime wedge and cute shamrock stirrer and they are ready to drink!

Green Apple Sangria

A perfectly refreshing beverage! If sangria is one of your favorite things to drink, then you will want to try this recipe.

Ingredients:
-White wine
-Ginger ale, sparkling water or club soda (for the bubbles)
-Granny Smith apples

Now, slice the apples into pieces and stick them at the bottom of your pitcher. Next, pour in the whole bottle of wine. Then pour in a bottle of ginger ale. Mix and chill for a couple of hours before serving. Cheers!

Irish Mint Mojito

A mojito is a Cuban cocktail that is usually made with rum, sugar, or simple syrup, mint, and soda water. Although there are hundreds of different ways to make a mojito, we are actually going to use Irish Whiskey in this recipe!

Ingredients:
-Granulated sugar
-Water
-Fresh Mint leaves
-Limes
-Irish Whiskey
-Crushed ice
-Tonic water or ginger ale
-Lime slices for garnish

Step 1: Prepare a simple syrup by combining sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring mixture to a boil until it dissolves and thickens. Remove from heat and let cool

Step 2: Place mint leaves in a cocktail shaker along with lime wedges and syrup. Muddle the leaves with a wooden spoon. Add Irish whiskey and fill the shaker with ice. Shake for 30 seconds and pour into prepared glasses.

Step 3: Top each cocktail with a splash of tonic water or ginger ale. Serve with additional lime wedges if desired. Enjoy!

Now that you know the five most popular Saint Patricks day cocktail drinks, you will be prepared to make one this coming holiday!
Test one of these recipes out with your friends or family. Let us know how you like them in the comments below, or tag us on instagram.

Are you craving a vacation in paradise? After this past year, have you been itching to fly somewhere with warm humid air, crystal clear blue water, and tasty tropical drinks being served to you by the pool? Well, if you carefully follow the steps required, you might actually be surprised at how simple it can be to travel to Hawaii right now. Keep reading to find out what it’s like to travel to Hawaii during a pandemic.

A look at This Past Year

To give you a little bit of a run down on what has been happening in Hawaii, it is actually quite a nice place to be (in our opinion) compared to many other parts of the world right now.

First of all, Hawaii has always been such an enjoyable destination to visit or live in. In a place with breathtaking beaches, surfing, snorkeling, hiking and endless activities, you will never get bored!

Second, we are not currently on lockdown. Residents and visitors are allowed to be outdoors, go about our daily lives, and enjoy many different activities. There have been many changes made such as wearing masks, limiting large gatherings, and public places running at 50% capacity.

Hawaii is Open and Welcoming

In March of 2020, when the pandemic was starting to get serious, Hawaii closed down. This meant, anyone traveling here was required to do a 14 day quarantine! With these rules in place, it made it extremely difficult for people to travel here. The quarantine lasted up until mid October, when the state was finally able to gain approval for the pre-travel testing program. Now, with a few simple steps and a negative COVID test, you too can join us for some sunshine and paradise!

How are the Residents Coping with This?

Before I mention these easy steps to traveling to the Aloha State, please keep some things in mind. Many of the residents of Hawaii have been experiencing an extremely difficult time. The majority of the state is still unemployed and businesses have been permanently closed, or are still awaiting to reopen. This pandemic has been devastating to our economy, as we rely on tourism. We welcome visitors with open arms, in hopes that you please respect our health and safety, taking the proper measurements required so that we can continue to re open and piece our community back together.

Before Traveling

First, you must register for the safe travels program online. You will create an account, and this will assist you with anything related to traveling to Hawaii and COVID. Next, schedule a test that is Hawaii State Approved from one of the “trusted testing and travel partners”. You must take this COVID test within 72 hours of your scheduled departure. Remember that Hawaii will only accept results from the Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT).

Depending on which island you are traveling to, you may want to double check the updates and rules, as some requirements vary island to island. For example, Kauai has opted out of the pre-travel testing and still requires a quarantine.

Once you have received your test results, it is time to upload them to your Safe Travels account. Make sure to upload the PDF version in order for it to be accepted. I highly recommend printing a copy of your test result in the event that they ask to see it in the line at the airport.

Right Before Your Flight

Now, you are less than 24 hours away from your exotic getaway! You will be required to wear masks quite often (going out to dinner, shopping, tours, etc) Do not forget to pack a few extra masks to have on hand! Last but not least, log onto your Safe Travels account and take the Health Questionnaire. On completion of this, you will receive a QR code. Save this for your travels to Hawaii, because you will need it once you arrive.

What if my results are not ready in time for the flight?

You will still be able to board the flight. Without results on time, prepare to quarantine until receiving negative results.

What if I do not want to take a COVID test? Can I still travel to Hawaii?

You can still travel to Hawaii without a COVID test. However, without a test, there is still a mandatory quarantine order in place.

The regulations are constantly changing, so it is always a good idea to keep yourself updated if you plan on taking a trip to Hawaii anytime soon. It may seem like quite a bit of information to swallow, but it is way easier than you think! Now that you know what it’s like to travel to Hawaii during a pandemic…good luck, stay safe, and we look forward to seeing you soon!

It is officially Valentines weekend, and you might be getting a little bit busy in the bedroom. Searching for a sexy drink to spice up your night? This is the best time of year to do a little something different for your significant other or just for yourself! We have gathered 3 Aphrodisiac Cocktails for you and your valentine.
Here are a few of our favorite, simple, yet delicious (and effective) recipes. Now let’s turn up the heat and get you in the mood!

Thai Chili Martini

Special ingredient: Thai Chili

This one is for the spicy lovers! Thai chilis are known for being one of the strongest aphrodisiacs out there.  These special chilis contain high amounts of capsaicin which causes increased circulation. Most importantly, this allows your blood to flow faster and stronger, stimulating your body. Make this drink extra strong. You will most definitely be feeling it before you finish the first one!

Gin Cocktail with Honey and Lemon Cordial

Secret Ingredient: Honey

A delicious cocktail for the sweet and sensitive ones out there!
For those of you wondering, why honey?! Honey contains boron and nitric oxide. Boron is known for regulating hormone levels in the body. Nictric Oxide is what allows blood, nutrients and oxygen to travel throughout the body. In many cultures, honey is a symbolism of fertility and procreation.

Gingered Peach Margarita

Aphrodisiac Ingredient: Ginger

For all of the ginger and margarita fans, this one is for you! Ginger is similar to the Thai chilis in the sense that it increases heat in the body, and heightens your heart rate. Gingers potent aroma is said to help stimulate arrousal.
This sweet and spicy cocktail is definitely going to set you up for a delightful night in the bedroom.

With many tasty aphrodisiac drinks out there, these are just a few of our favorites. Looking for something different to do this Valentine’s Day? If you are simply staying indoors and need some fun inspiration, want to do something special for your lover, or simply curious to test out the effectiveness of these drinks, this is a fun way to add to a romantic evening of love.

Tag us @alohabarsmaui so we can feature your special twist on these 3 aphrodisiac cocktails for you and your valentine.

Its our honor to be a part of your love story….

On June 16 this bride and groom got married at the award winning Olowalu Plantation house located on the gorgeous west coast of Maui.

They went for a whimsical vintage theme that our one of a kind Vintage Bar complimented beautifully.

ASA flowers designed a cascading rose floral arrangement for the front of the bar which was absolutely breathtaking and smelled incredible.

For the couple’s signature drinks they chose a Strawberry and Lavender Infused Lemonade and Maui Mules made with Handcrafted Hawaiian Ginger Simple Syrup, Fresh Lime and Pineapple Juice.

June 16th Olowalu

Location: Olowalu Plantation, Maui

Bar: Vintage

Signature Drink #1: Strawberry and Lavender Lemonade

Signature Drink #2: Maui Mule

Wedding was coordinated by Kendall Higashimo of White Orchid Weddings

Flowers: Asa Flowers

Photos taken by Kaua Photography.

ITS OUR HONOR TO BE A PART OF YOUR LOVE STORY….

On June 8th Alyssa and Keith got married at the award winning Olowalu Plantation house located on the gorgeous west coast of Maui.

They went for a modern theme that our Modern Art Deco bar complimented beautifully.

For the couple’s signature drinks they chose a “Perfect Union” – Vodka with fresh Strawberry and Cucumber purée with fresh lime and sparkling soda and organic Strawberry Infused Lemonade.

JUNE 8TH OLOWALU

Location: Olowalu Plantation, Maui

Bar: Modern Art Deco

Coordinator – Tropical Maui Weddings

Florist: Lois Hiranaga

Entertainment: Maui Wedding DJ

Signature Drink #1: Perfect Union

Signature Drink #2: Maui Mules

Photos taken by Kaua Photography.

Sophie and Adam’s destination wedding at the exclusive White Orchid Beach House in Maui, Hawaii on February 21, 2017. We got the chance to meet with Sophie a few months before her wedding.

Meeting with brides before the wedding is always such a treat for us because we don’t always get the chance since most couples are planning everything from the mainland.

Sophie and Adam decided to book all three of our family of companies for their event, Sol Maui Events – DJ And MC Services, Aloha Bars Maui – Boutique Cocktail Catering and Luxury Photo Mirror – Photo Booth.

DJ Del Sol of our sister company Sol Maui Events was the MC and Dj for the evening.

The Groom and DJ Del pulled off a surprise for Sophie. Before anyone got to the venue the Groom and Del had a private rehearsal of a song that the groom Adam was going to play keyboard for and sing to his soon to be wife.

She was so surprised when he sang this to her after dinner. We were all in tears! It was such a sweet moment.

Sophie and Adam’s Bar

Sophie’s theme was Vintage soft colors. Our Vintage Dream Bar from our Aloha Bars Maui collection perfectly complimented her design. It was placed just feet away from the ocean and lava rock surrounding the property.

Signature Drinks

For The Bride and Grooms signature drinks we recreated  Lychee Mojitos that the couple had had while on a vacation in Bali together. The ingredients were – Lychee (Asian Plum) Juice ,Fresh, Mint Lime and Rum.

They also had Maui Mules – Vodka, Lime, Handcrafted Hawaiian ginger simple syrup and a splash of pineapple. We serve it with a splash of pineapple juice. The Guests absolutely loved the signature drinks and the unique flavors that they were able to experience.

Sophie and Adam’s photo booth

For our Luxury Photo Mirror Photo Booth we kept the vintage theme with a soft Pink Rosette backdrop from our collection. The photo border was a white wood wash design complimented with Pink text to tie everything in together.

Everyone had a blast taking pictures throughout the night in the photo booth. Even though there were only 30 guests at the wedding the photo booth was busy non-stop. The pictures that we took that night were absolutely priceless.

Congratulations Sophie & Adam!

We are honored to be a part of your ever growing ohana! (family)

Aloha Bars Maui takes pride in our Glassware Collection which comes with our service and is exclusively for our clients.

Presentation is everything at your event especially when it is being documented by your photographers and videographers. We make sure that you and your guests have a beautifully designed cocktail in hand that looks as good as it tastes.

Whether it be one of your signature cocktails, a glass of wine, a tropical juice, or a soda, each drink comes in beautiful glassware and has a tropical fruit or flower garnish and stylish paper straw that is biodegradable and earth friendly.

Signature Drinks Glassware

For your Signature Drinks we have a variety of styles depending if we are serving your drinks “on the Rocks”  or “up” in a Coupe or Martini glass.  Each glass highlights the beautiful colors in you drink making for great photographs as you can see in our gallery.

Wine Service Glassware

Our Wine glasses are from Schott Zwiesel‘s crystal glassware collection. Which is internationally acclaimed among top Sommeliers and Wine Makers.

Champagne Service Glassware

For your champagne toast we can use our classic stemmed Champagne flutes, Vintage Coupes , or our Modern Stemless Champagne glasses for an elegant touch.

Modern Twist Glassware

With the Mule craze  bringing the Copper Cup into such popularity we have also added to our collection Copper Pint Glasses and Stainless Steel Cups. We love these  especially for our tropical environment. They keep your ice and drink colder for  longer !

Many mahalos to the photographers who have taken these amazing pictures!

• Scott Drexler Photography
• Chris J Evans Photography
• Kaua Photography
• Anna Kim Photography
• Angie Diaz
• Caitlin Cathey Photography
• Tad Craig Photography
• Dimitri and Sandra Photography
• Wendy Laurel Photography
• Mariah Milan Photography
• Tamiz Photography

Make sure to check Aloha Bars Maui on Facebook and Instagram.