A Unique Museum Wedding at Capitol Modern, Honolulu


By Sara Rodriguez | Oahu Wedding Photographer

If you've ever dreamed of having a wedding surrounded by modern art, creative energy, and stunning architecture—Capitol Modern (formerly known as the Hawaii State Art Museum) is the hidden gem you've been looking for.


As a wedding photographer in Hawaii, I'm used to capturing epic beach backdrops and tropical vibes—but this one? No sand, no surf, and it was pure magic.


Why I Fell in Love with Capitol Modern


Art museums have always held a special place in my heart. There's something about the textures, colors, and intentional design that makes my creative soul light up. So when my couple told me they were getting married at Capitol Modern, I may have squealed just a little (okay, a lot).

This venue is right in the heart of downtown Honolulu and feels like a modern-day fairytale with its gallery spaces, clean lines, and soft natural light pouring through tall windows. It was romantic, sophisticated, and a total vibe.

Elegant white bridal bouquet with roses alongside matching white bow heels and delicate veil on terracotta floor.
Three bridesmaids in dark gowns help a bride get ready in front of bright windows in a soft, moody scene.
A wedding party poses playfully on grass under shady trees at an elegant venue with stone architecture.
People gather around an elegant outdoor swimming pool surrounded by palm trees and colonial architecture for an event.
Two wedding attendees walk together at an outdoor venue, with white floral leis and a bridal bouquet of white flowers.
A couple shares an intimate moment in front of a white colonial-style building with arched architecture and balconies.

The Vibe: Editorial Meets Intimate


The couple wanted a day that felt intimate but still had that wow factor—and this venue delivered. Every corner of Capitol Modern felt like a work of art. We took advantage of the gallery spaces for portraits, playing with light and shadows to create a dreamy, editorial-style gallery with a romantic twist.

From the first look surrounded by artwork, to a quiet moment on the grand staircase, every shot told a story. No crashing waves in the background, no sandy toes—just pure elegance, emotion, and architecture.


A Non-Beach Wedding in Hawaii? YES PLEASE.


Let’s be honest—most people think “Hawaii wedding” means palm trees and beaches. And while I love a good ocean view, this wedding proved you don’t need a beach to have a stunning, unforgettable celebration.

Capitol Modern is perfect for couples who want something different—something bold, creative, and a little unexpected. It’s especially great for couples who love art, design, or want a modern city vibe with island warmth.

Elegant vintage arched colonnade with white pillars features person in bright coral dress standing between classic columns.
Elegant couple in formal attire standing in front of a Mediterranean-style building with tiled fountain and lush greenery.
Wedding party stands together on a concrete terrace in an outdoor garden ceremony setting.
A white wedding dress hangs elegantly from an ornate lantern in a Spanish colonial archway with terracotta floors.
Newlywed couple stands on ornate tiled platform in front of historic building with elegant columns and landscaping.
Party guests raise champagne glasses in a celebratory toast at a festive indoor gathering.
A bride and groom share a tender moment on a decorative tiled fountain ledge at an elegant venue with white columns.

Pro Tips If You're Thinking of Getting Married at Capitol Modern


Here’s what I learned from photographing this wedding:


💡 Lighting is dreamy. The natural light is your best friend here—especially for portraits. Morning or golden hour ceremonies work beautifully.

💡 Bring in florals + decor that complement the art. The couple chose simple, modern arrangements that didn’t compete with the gallery walls. It was perfect.

💡 Plan for a city feel. Since you’re not on the beach, take advantage of the urban surroundings! We captured some stylish city shots right outside.

💡 Work with a photographer who loves creative spaces. (Hi, that’s me! 😄) If you love editorial, artistic photos and want someone who knows how to bring the vibe—let’s talk!


Let’s Create Something Unique Together


If you're planning a wedding at Capitol Modern or another non-beach venue in Hawaii, I’d love to help you tell your story in a way that feels authentic, creative, and full of heart.

Check out more galleries and get in touch over at sarahawaiiphoto.com 💛


Let’s make magic—whether it’s in an art museum, a jungle garden, or a mountaintop at sunset.


Two people in contrasting red and white outfits share an intimate moment in a dimly lit historic building interior.
Wedding party helps with final adjustments to a lace wedding dress near bright windows in an elegant room.
A black and white photo of guests celebrating with raised glasses during a joyful wedding reception toast.
A nighttime outdoor dance party with warm lighting and people gathered on a patio dance floor surrounded by buildings.
A person breakdancing on a glossy floor surrounded by spectators in a dimly lit venue.
White leather block heel bridal shoes with straps casting dramatic shadows against a textured surface.
Elegant wedding dress with delicate lace train and low back detail shown near vintage wood paneled windows.
A joyful candid moment of laughter captured at a wedding celebration with people in formal attire.
Four groomsmen in formal attire pose together on a sunny patio with palm fronds overhead.
A wedding dress fitting shows an elegant mermaid gown with intricate lace train being adjusted in a sunlit room.
A person in a crisp white tuxedo jacket and bow tie adjusts their collar while standing in front of greenery and string lights.
Figure in elegant white form-fitting wedding gown poses on covered porch with ornate iron lanterns and arched windows.
Wedding party in formal attire walks together on grass with black and white color coordinated outfits.
Wedding party forms arch with raised arms as happy couple passes underneath during outdoor celebration ceremony.
Groomsmen in formal suits share a joyful moment running and laughing together on a palm tree-lined lawn.
Wedding ceremony processional along a covered walkway with guests seated on white chairs.
Outdoor wedding ceremony setup around a pool with audience seated in white chairs surrounded by lush greenery and architecture.
Wedding ceremony taking place under a hexagonal arch decorated with greenery on an outdoor patio with guests watching.
Wedding reception venue with white folding chairs and tables under a tent decorated with string lights.
A wedding ceremony takes place around a pool in a courtyard surrounded by buildings and tropical trees in Hawaii.
A group of people pose together on grass in front of a white stone building on a sunny day.
Black and white wedding photo of couple sharing a romantic moment in front of a Spanish colonial style courtyard.
A romantic wedding couple embraces on a mosaic-tiled terrace with Spanish colonial architecture and tropical foliage.
A couple in elegant wedding attire embraces on a manicured lawn in front of a Spanish colonial style building with ornate tiles.
Person wearing an all-white suit poses gracefully with a green leaf lei in a Mediterranean-style courtyard.
A woman in a traditional red ao dai dress and matching hat poses elegantly in an indoor setting.
Wedding guests seated at round tables under a tent enjoy dinner at an elegant outdoor reception with string lights overhead.
People celebrating with drinks raised in a toast at a festive dinner gathering with colorful party attire.
Evening wedding reception on a balcony with couples dancing under string lights and decorative white canopies.
Dynamic reception dance performance with crowd watching under warm ballroom lighting.