What's Happening?
Hope Gould and Sam Wadsworth, who met during a chance encounter in Paris in 2018, are planning their wedding on Hawaii's Big Island. The couple, who both attended college in California, became close friends
and eventually fell in love during their sophomore year. After graduating, Hope pursued a career in experiential marketing while Sam worked in real estate development. Sam proposed to Hope in July 2024 in the Hamptons, setting up a romantic scene with champagne and flowers. The couple celebrated their engagement with a barbecue attended by friends and family. They faced challenges in deciding on a wedding location due to their New York City residence and their West Coast origins, ultimately choosing Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort, for their July 12, 2025, wedding. The location holds sentimental value for Hope, whose family spent significant time there, and for the couple, who lived in Hawaii during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Why It's Important?
The wedding of Hope Gould and Sam Wadsworth highlights the growing trend of destination weddings, which can have significant economic impacts on local communities. By choosing Hawaii, the couple contributes to the tourism industry, which is vital for the state's economy. Destination weddings often involve extensive planning and coordination, benefiting local vendors, hotels, and service providers. Additionally, the choice of a sentimental location underscores the importance of personal connections and memories in wedding planning. This event also reflects broader societal trends where couples prioritize unique and meaningful experiences over traditional wedding settings.
What's Next?
As Hope Gould and Sam Wadsworth prepare for their wedding, they will likely engage with local vendors and planners to ensure a seamless event. The couple's decision to host their wedding in Hawaii may inspire other couples to consider destination weddings, potentially boosting tourism in similar locales. The wedding industry may see increased demand for personalized and unique experiences, prompting businesses to adapt their offerings. Friends and family from various locations will travel to Hawaii, contributing to the local economy and fostering cultural exchange.
Beyond the Headlines
The choice of Hawaii for Hope Gould and Sam Wadsworth's wedding reflects broader cultural shifts towards valuing experiences and personal significance in major life events. This trend may influence how future generations approach wedding planning, prioritizing locations that hold personal or familial importance. The couple's story also highlights the role of chance encounters and shared experiences in forming lasting relationships, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of love and connection.