My dream wedding reception had always been to have a big "dinner party."
Our Hawaii reception was not your typical reception.
I wanted to know the people at my party.
And, I wanted to actually eat at my reception.

We definitely had a "Big Dinner Party."

There was no dancing or flower throwing or garter ceremony, but it was a celebration we will never forget.
In the Kaneohe Yacht club, only our closest family and friends came.
There was live guitar music and a hula dancer to make everyone feel welcome.
On the tables my wonderful family helped me place photos of Calvin and I attached to ocean rocks. There was sea glass pieces that decorated the tables and flowers. (My aunt Janet and mom stayed up into the middle of the night getting things ready.)
Nikaela sang the most beautiful and original version of "My Best Friend."
We had an endless buffet and the most delicious cake. (The cake was made by Naan who owns the Portuguese bakery)
The parents gave speeches.
We gave speeches.
There was a slideshow of Calvin and I from including baby and child photos.
There was lots of happy tears  during that part.

When we were "sent off" there was no rice or sparklers, but we had the infamous gong pounding and people shouting and cheering.

It was absolutely perfect. It was how I had imagined a wedding reception should be.