Mele Hamasaki and Daniel Croix Henderson wed in Honolulu
Mele Hamasaki and Daniel Croix Henderson exchanged vows on the peak of Lion's Gate Portal in Honolulu on January 1, 2025.

Couple returns to first date spot
The pair met on May 6, 2021, at Tantalus Lookout despite a tropical storm warning. They discussed nature and creative processes while watching an empty park sunset. Daniel proposed on New Year's Day 2025 after returning to that specific location. He carried the engagement ring in his pocket until she accepted his offer.
Wedding venue chosen for connection
The couple selected a historic Honolulu home offered by a friend's family for the ceremony. This location provided dramatic views of the city skyline and the ocean waters. Mele grew up on Oahu and valued having the wedding on the south side. The peak of Lion's Gate Portal was intended to fill the world with aloha.
Planning treated as film production
Mele applied her professional design skills to manage the budget and schedule fittings. She hired department heads and sent call sheets to all wedding guests. Karisa Ramolete Hayashi directed the show as a local wedding planner. Her family grew up near the venue which felt aligned with the couple.
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