2 August 2024
TEN YEARS AGO,
We met at a pizza party at Coconut Point in American Samoa. We sat in the treehouse overlooking the ocean and stars glistening amidst the night sky, and had our very first conversation. Many treehouse hangs, beach parties, and conversations later, we fell in love. We moved in and made our home together at Coconut Point, adopted two coconut mutts, and went on many incredible adventures. Five years later, we hiked Mt. Alava on our 5th anniversary. We summited just as the sun was beginning to dip below the horizon. While taking in the glorious view of Pago Pago Harbor, that was when Ian got down on one knee and proposed, and Nerelle said YES!
And as you all know, we were supposed to have our wedding in Samoa in May 2020, but unfortunately, the coronavirus pandemic put everything on pause and changed the course of history forever. Our love grew still, even in isolation and closed island borders, and wanting to make light of a dark time, we decided to elope. We got married in the treehouse at Coconut Point where we first met, in front of just a few friends and family, with others witnessing over Zoom. It was the best day ever… well, second best day ever.
We grew our family in December 2022, and welcomed our beautiful baby girl who we named Alava. She is our greatest blessing, and has already taken us on a wild ride. We moved to Santa Cruz, California shortly after she was born. Now, it’s 2024, and we are ready to party again as we renew our vows of love and commitment to each other. We hope you can join us too!
RESET THE COUNTDOWN, AGAIN
We hope to see you in Samoa on August 2, 2024!
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YOU’RE INVITED
Please join us in Samoa to celebrate our love renewed. This is your excuse for a vacation, so take it! Of course, no hard feelings if you can’t make it.
Please RSVP by May 5, 2024.
PACK YOUR BAGS
Swimsuits? check. Camera? check. Dancing shoes? check! To help, we made a Samoa packing list for you here.
DESTINATION
Upolu, Samoa
Let’s getaway to the island of Upolu in the beautiful country of Samoa. Fly in through Faleolo International Airport (APW). Remember that Samoa is on the other side of the International Dateline, so keep time zone differences in mind while you’re planning your trip.
RETURN TO PARADISE
Upolu, Samoa
We would love for you to join us at Return to Paradise Resort. The month of August is peak season in Samoa, so rooms will go quick! We’ve arranged a discounted room block for our guests with the code “IN2024” — Please let us know before you book!
For those wondering about our schedule, we will be at Return to Paradise from July 29 to August 3. More details below.
VOW RENEWAL CEREMONY
4:00pm — 02 August 2024
at Return to Paradise beach
We fell in love 10 years ago, and eloped at the height of COVID. This is our chance to renew our vows and celebrate with you all.
SUNSET PHOTOS
& COCKTAILS
5:00pm — August 2, 2024
at Return to Paradise beach
Group photos and bevvies all around.
Keep your fingers crossed for clear skies and a magical sunset. Maybe even a little swim if we’re all feeling extra frisky.
LET’S PARTY
6:30pm — August 2, 2024
at Return to Paradise Fetaui Fale
Raise your glass to family, friends, and food.
Then hit the dance floor, and let’s party all night long!
BRUNCH
10:00am — August 3, 2024
at Return to Paradise Kitchen
Our favorite meal of the day! We can talk story about how we survived the global pandemic and the previous night’s celebrations.
FAQs
When do I need to RSVP by?
Please RSVP by May 5, 2024.
What should I wear?
Island formal attire. Bold colors and tropical prints. Shoes optional.
Can I bring a guest?
Please ask us in advance!
Are kids allowed to join?
Yes! Alava would love to party with your kids.
Is the ceremony/reception indoors or outdoors?
The ceremony will be outside on a sandy beach. In Samoa, it could rain at any moment, so please be prepared for that.
The reception will be at the open air Fetaui Fale at Return to Paradise, so technically indoors, but also technically outdoors.
Return to Paradise
When making your reservation online, please use the code IN2024 in order to receive the discounted rate.
DISCOUNT DETAILS: Minimum of 3 nights, and prices below are per night. Please note that rates on their website are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD), so we’ve provided an approximate exchange rate.
ROOM OPTIONS
- Regular rate: $300 NZD
- Discounted rate: $196 NZD = about $120 USD
- Regular rate: $400 NZD
- Discounted rate: $246 NZD = about $150 USD
- Regular rate: $500 NZD
- Discounted rate: $296 NZD = about $180 USD
GETTING THERE
– 30 minute drive from the airport
– 1 hour drive from Apia
Other Accommodations
- Matareva Beach Fales
- Taufua Beach Fales
- Salani Surf Resort
- Le Manumea Hotel
- Taumeasina Island Resort
You can also check out this full list of accommodations in Samoa, or AirBnB may be a good option too.
Getting Around
Car rentals are very affordable.
When you rent a car, you’ll also need to get. a temporary drivers permit which you should ask your car rental company about in advance.
Remember that they drive on the right side of the road, so be prepared for a little left/right confusion!
Samoa Recommendations
- Paddles Restaurant
- Giordano’s Pizzeria
- Nourish Cafe
- Scalini’s Restaurant
- KokoBanana Bar & Grill
SHOP:
- Fugalei market
- Pacific Jewell Gift Shop
- Plantation House
- Mailelani Samoa
EXPERIENCE:
- To Sua Ocean Trench
- Savaia Giant Clam Sanctuary
- Piula Cave Pool
- Robert Louis Stevenson Museum
- Papase’ea Sliding Rocks
- Palolo Deep Marine Reserve
- Papapapaitai Falls
- Lalomanu Beach
- Le Manumea Fiafia Night
What to Pack for Samoa
– Passport
– Light and breezy clothing
– Swimwear
– Sun protection (sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses)
– Insect repellent
– Comfy shoes
– Travel adapter
– Medications
Discover the beauty, warmth, and culture of Samoa. Pack smart and get ready for an unforgettable tropical experience!
We are all about the moments over materials, always.