As the sun sets ….

As the sun sets on the year of 2023, it's a moment of reflection for many, and I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible journey we've doing the 300+ events and wedding this year at HNL Studios/HNL Photobooth Co. As one of the Co-founders of this amazing Hawaii-based team, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the love, the laughter, and the memories we've had the privilege of capturing at weddings and events in Hawaii.

Above all the things this year, I'm incredibly grateful to God for my family. My wife Nikki, who is my rock, my best friend, and the love of my life. Our two children, Una Amiya and Kedua Kaleb truly light up our lives. They bring us so much joy, and I'm so proud of the amazing young people they are becoming. Their crazy laughter, their innocent curiosity, and their sincere love daily fills our home with God's warmth.

Unlike any other…

I am immensely thankful for the talented and passionate team at HNL Studios. Each member brings a unique perspective and skill set, contributing to the magic that unfolds behind our lenses. Your dedication to perfection, creativity, and the art of storytelling is what makes HNL Studios stand out. This year has been a testament to your hard work, and I'm proud to lead such an extraordinary group of individuals. There were many 1st this year such as such as the creation of our HNL wedding and events Podcast that can be found on our Youtube, Spotify, as well initiative to expanding our experience and services globally outside of Hawaii.

To our incredible HNL couples and clients, thank you for entrusting us with the profound honor of documenting the most cherished celebrations of your lives. It has been an privilege and a joy to witness and capture the special stories that have unfolded against the stunning backdrop of Hawaii. Your trust in HNL Studios fuels our passion, and we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to be a part of your special days.

I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the fellow vendors and partners who have collaborated with us throughout the year. The wedding industry in Hawaii is a close-knit community, and the camaraderie we share enhances the overall experience for our couples.

August 08, 2023…

Many of you who know me (Charles) may actually not know I am originally from Lahaina Maui. It's my hometown. The night of August 8, 2023, will forever be engraved in our memories as the day the Lahaina Wildfire turned the town to dust, brick and twisted metal. The fire destroyed the town, but through the grace of God, my Dad, mom, brother and dozens of family members who still live in Lahaina were able to escape unharmed. We now months later, still are just taking the first steps of rebuilding a life literally taken away. In the aftermath of the fire, standing on a land of ash which was once our city, we learned to experience a deeper meaning of gratitude. It also taught me valuable lessons about love, loss, and how God works in people's lives.

Are you looking for ways to help Maui Victims? Click on the button below to learn more.

Ending the year with a Bang…

Gratitude fills my heart as I reflect on the incredible journey of being a business owner of a flourishing photography, film and events company in Hawaii. The stunning landscapes and vibrant culture have been the perfect canvas for our creativity. Yet, this venture wouldn't be thriving without the indispensable support of friends, mentors, and coaches who have guided and inspired me. Their wisdom, encouragement, and shared experiences have played a crucial role in my professional growth, turning every project into a collaborative success. I am profoundly thankful for the privilege of working in this place we call home and for the wonderful individuals who have made this journey not just possible but truly exceptional.

In the spirit of fostering collaboration and cultivating a supportive entrepreneurial community for those that are up and coming, I'm thrilled to invite you to an event I am involved called the Young Professionals Social.

What: Young Professions Social
When: Friday December 29, 2023.
Location: The Gatsby Kaka’ako - 814 Ilaniwai St 1st floor, Honolulu, HI 96813

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the "Young Professionals Social" in Honolulu – a modern Gatsby Event designed exclusively for young professionals aged 21 to 35. Picture yourself in sleek suits and flapper dresses, a modern twist on Roaring Twenties glamour. Connect with other ambitious young professionals in the middle of the Kaka'ako social scene. This event is your opportunity to sip on hand crafted cocktails while forging meaningful relationships and exploring collaborative possibilities. I myself will be there as well and it would be awesome to meet you!

Are you an early entrepreneur in the ages of 21-35 or know someone who is? Click HERE to learn more or to register to attend.

YES, I WANT TO GO TO THE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SOCIAL!

I'm so thankful for all God has done and I never want to take it for granted. I believe that gratitude is the key to contentment and there is power in contentment. It's not about ignoring life's challenges or pretending that everything is perfect, it's about recognizing the abundance amidst the difficulties. Matthew 6:33 says “seek first God’s kingdom and his righteousness and all these things will be given to you”.

For those of you who have been seeking God, when you stop and take the time to take a look at what God has done in your own life, you will see it already has.