Kevin New and Lisa Bieringer

As busy professionals we were looking for an opportunity to have some quality time together. Our family and friends are located all throughout the United States. We researched many local Californian options but once we happened across the information about Turtle Island it felt like the perfect fit for us.

Kevin had originally envisioned getting married on a beach. We did some research; it was very private and everything we read from previous guests was very positive. 

Out of respect for our parents we asked them if they were ok with us running away. To our surprise, the support from our family and friends was so positive and enthusiastic. 

We worked with the American Turtle Island coordinator. She was very helpful and answered our questions quickly. Within about two weeks we had a reservation and booked our flights.  That was in February and we travelled and married in May.

It was so simple. On the fourth day of our stay we sat on the beach with the manager. We were so relaxed at that point, it took about 30 minutes to plan!

We did not have any guests from home. They were, however, there in spirit and words by means of cards and letters.  

Looking back we would have asked to have a professional photographer to capture all of the details of the day.

We chose to have a Grand Fijian wedding with a beautiful song performed by the staff, followed by our vows and a Ritual Kava Ceremony, a cocktail party. Dinner was set up along the beach, lit with lanterns and candles, and it all looked like a dream.

Exchanging our vows and witnessing the way the other guests and staff were moved by our wedding.

We were so thankful for the time we spent on the island together before our wedding. It brought us closer and reinforced why we were getting married. So many times couples become strained by the weight of the planning. This was about us and our journey together.