EDGE San Francisco

Maui, Hawaii - On Feb. 12, 2012, amid a lush Hawaiian landscape of coconut palms, ginger blossoms, and a trickling brook, a Dallas-based couple Gracie Moreno and Casey Clifton made a special impression on the idyllic tropical scenery, celebrating the first civil union at Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa , since a law legalizing civil unions on Hawaii went into effect in January 2012.

Having never been to Hawaii, Casey (23), a baker for a vegan restaurant in Dallas, Spiral Diner & Bakery, and Gracie (28), a self-employed consultant, dreamed of taking a Hawaiian vacation; and after learning that the legalization of civil unions was in process, they chose Hawaii for their ceremony as a place that they would be safe and treated with respect. "And indeed, we were," confirmed Gracie. "The people of Hawaii were very accepting. They were all very congratulatory and happy for us."

The duo, who envisioned a beach wedding, wearing sundresses, and walking down the aisle barefoot, chose the Hyatt because they were drawn to the wedding ceremony locations, which offered a more private, intimate gathering place for them and their guests.

Ultimately they selected Ka Hale Aloha (The House of Love) for their ceremony - a quaint, secluded wedding gazebo, set in a lush garden with a beach backdrop, which can accommodate up to 10 guests. Additionally, the endless amenities including the spa, workout facility, restaurants, bars, pools, the beach and water sport activities, as well as large spacious guestrooms helped inform their decision.

Hyatt Regency Maui’s experienced team of wedding experts was instrumental in planning their destination ceremony. "They kept everything flowing smoothly - including the Champagne-so we could enjoy our day," said Gracie. Edie Tam, catering convention services manager at Hyatt Regency Maui, assisted the couple throughout the process, offering advice on Hawaiian traditions that could be incorporated into the ceremony, and suggested vendors including:

· Photographer: Anna Kim focused on candid photographs to capture the couple’s personality, and enthrallment, making sure they were relaxed during what was their first professional shoot.

· Ministers: Paul Gangnier and Nicole Rose assisted the couple in writing their ceremony to make it a special experience that resonated with them both.

For more information regarding civil unions at Hyatt Regency Maui, call 808.661.1234 or visit http://maui.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/events/weddings/