The Beautiful Hawaiian Wedding of Soul Surfer Bethany Hamilton

Bethany Hamilton is a professional surfer from Hawaii who became widely known for her inspirational story of resilience and courage after surviving a shark attack at the age of 13. Despite losing her left arm in the attack, she continued to pursue her passion for surfing and went on to become a successful professional surfer, winning numerous championships and accolades.

Bethany’s extraordinary story of courage and triumph caught the attention of Hollywood, leading to the creation of a captivating movie that brought her incredible journey to the big screen. “Soul Surfer,” the film adaptation of her life, chronicles her unyielding spirit, the challenges she faced, and her awe-inspiring comeback. Through the movie, audiences witness the power of perseverance, the strength of the human spirit, and the importance of never giving up on one’s dreams.

From her life-altering experience to her remarkable achievements as a professional surfer, the story of Bethany Hamilton has resonated with people from all walks of life. Her unwavering determination and ability to overcome adversity have made her an inspiration to millions, proving that with resilience and a positive mindset, anything is possible.

I had the honor of filming her magical day with her husband Adam and their families.

Wedding video of Bethany Hamilton & Adam Dirks

The Bohemian Themed Wedding Ceremony

The couple were married during a beautiful ceremony in front of 300 friends and family at a secluded 130-acre estate on Kauai’s north shore near the town where Bethany grew up. Set against the picturesque backdrop of a tropical paradise, the event captured the essence of the surfer’s free-spirited nature and unwavering optimism.

The entire wedding party, thirteen bridesmaids and eight groomsmen, including the bride and groom, were all barefoot for the ceremony. The happy couple wrote and said their vows. Bethany’s ring was white gold with a two-carat diamond while Adam’s was made from local Koa wood and titanium.

The slightly bohemian wedding theme suited the pairs’ love of the outdoors. With a blend of rustic charm and beachy elegance, the ceremony showcased Bethany’s unique style. The venue was adorned with vibrant flowers, creating a vibrant burst of colors against the white sand and crystal-clear waters. The intimate gathering of family and close friends added a warm and heartfelt touch to the occasion.

The ceremony itself was a heartfelt exchange of vows, with Bethany and her partner expressing their love and commitment to each other in front of their loved ones. Tears of joy mingled with laughter, as their words resonated with the authenticity and depth of their connection.

“Our wedding was beautiful. I’m now married to the love of my life. There are no words to fully describe what went on in my heart on our wedding day. I was full of joy, thankfulness, and excitement to share life with my husband Adam. Having our loved ones and a ton of our great friends made it incredibly special. It was above anything I had dreamed of!”

“I started my day in the ocean, got wet and covered in sand, and then headed to the wedding venue to get ready. Thirteen bridesmaids bounced around me in a joyous atmosphere on a beautiful day!”

“During our ceremony, I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face besides when I was holding in my tears. Taking a big step; to step away from my parents to cling to my husband for the rest of our lives. I’m thankful for all that my parents have been to and for me and for the new life and adventure with Adam. My best friend and husband.”

“We said vows to each other in love and commitment before God, our families, and our friends. As husband and wife the first thing we did together was take communion and ask God to be in the centre of our marriage. I know that if Adam and I are in the right relationship with God and have him as the center of our marriage we will be in a joyous, loving marriage. Then we smooched, hehe! And now we are married!”

The Reception

Bethany Hamilton’s reception was an enchanting affair filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments. Nestled under the starlit sky, the reception venue exuded a romantic and intimate ambiance, creating the perfect setting for a night of celebration.

The tables were adorned with elegant floral arrangements, reflecting Bethany’s love for nature and the ocean. Soft candlelight casts a warm glow, adding an extra touch of magic to the atmosphere. The carefully curated décor captured the essence of the beach, incorporating elements such as seashells, driftwood, and touches of coastal charm.

The reception menu was a culinary delight, featuring a delectable array of dishes that showcased the flavors of the island. From fresh seafood delicacies to tropical-inspired cocktails, every bite and sip was a testament to the vibrant and diverse culinary heritage of the Hawaiian paradise.

Throughout the evening, heartfelt speeches and toasts were given, expressing love, admiration, and well wishes for the couple’s future. Tears of joy and laughter filled the air as stories were shared, painting a vivid picture of the love and impact Bethany and her partner had on those around them.

As the night unfolded, Bethany and her partner took center stage for their first dance as a married couple. Their graceful movements and undeniable chemistry were a testament to the love and connection they shared, captivating everyone in attendance.

The bride and groom’s first dance, briefly shown in their highlight video above, was to The Three of Us by Ben Harper.

“Bethany and I had been praying for and anticipating our union for months and August 18, 2013 turned out to be the most beautiful and blessed day possible. It was amazing to see so many friends and family come together in support of our relationship. We were so grateful for the amazing work that was put in by our friends and family to make our wedding incredible.”

“But what brought all the busyness and shaky nerves to a sudden calm was when my bride appeared on the other end of the grassy aisle. The sun shone on Bethany’s smile and time seemed to slow as she made her way to the beautiful flower-laden alter. My heart was going to burst with love and joy as she joined me. We both were holding back tears as we repeated vows and shared our own personal vows with one another. The partaking of Christ’s body and our union under His name are standing promises that will hold our relationship together till death do us part. God truly blessed our wedding day.”

“We had a blast celebrating our union with everyone at the reception dancing, eating great food, and hearing fun and meaningful speeches from our wedding party. Bethany and I plan to keep on celebrating many more years of marriage and look forward to continue growing in our love and relationship through Christ.” – Adam Dirks

Wedding Videography: Motion Art Wedding Films
Photography: Mike Larson
Wedding Dress: Lazaro Bridal