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The state of Hawaii is cracking down on beach weddings and, beginning August 1, will require all commercial weddings (meaning somebody is making a profit) to have proper permits. That means wedding planners, officiants, musicians, and others will need to have a permit in order to work your wedding.

People within the Hawaiian beach wedding industry are appalled, and concerned that the need for permits might take smaller companies and individuals right out of business. Beach weddings have been on the decline for the last year or two, and they fear this could be the nail in the coffin. There is a universally acknowledged need to work toward preserving the islands and the beaches, but the permits can be cost prohibitive because they aren't issued without proof of liability insurance plus the minimum $20 fee.

The government has stated that it will not halt any weddings as they are in progress, but it would still be a smart idea for anyone planning a Hawaiian wedding to double check with their vendors to make sure all bases are covered.