Island-Inspired Wedding Day Celebrating Hawaiian Heritage at The Sanctuary at Sacred Mesa

Kanisha Bello and Taylor Candelario’s wedding married both the couple and two distinct motifs: Hawaiian tradition and Arizona’s natural landscape. With 40 of their closest family and friends flying in from Hawaii, the couple chose a stunning Airbnb venue nestled among the iconic red rocks of Sedona. Both nurses originally from Oahu, Kanisha and Taylor wanted their wedding to reflect both their island roots and their new life in Arizona, creating a unique event. The décor was inspired by their desert surroundings, incorporating pampas grass, toffee-colored roses and potted cacti that highlighted the boho, earthy vibe of their ceremony and reception. Special touches included custom bridal party outfits made by a friend from Hawaii and polaroid-style cookies featuring pictures of the couple, helping to personalize the day. Hawaiian traditions played a significant role in the day, with family members bringing leis and Maile Leis from Hawaii, symbolizing love, devotion and respect. The ceremony was filled with emotion. When the wedding party paused to soak in the moment before walking down the aisle, the excitement brought everyone to tears. Each guest had a freshly squeezed juice shot at their seat, and once Kanisha and Taylor were pronounced married, the entire group joined in a celebratory cheer as Kanisha’s brother shouted “Cheehoo!”—a traditional Hawaiian expression of happiness