Issuu

CHOOSING A DESTINATION

how to

GET ORGANIZED & BE PREPARED

TRAVEL CHECKLIST

DESTINATION WEDDING

TODAY’S

TRENDS

2 Tall Grass Trail, Suite 13 Woodbridge, ON Canada, L4L 3Y9 Tel: 416-399-5859 info@instylevacations.ca www.todaysbride.ca

DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA

PUBLISHED BY TODAY’S

Take Your LOVE to THE BEACH Book your wedding group at Palace Resorts by February 28, 2016 and get a

FREE UP $ TO

Air Canada Vacations

2-category room upgrade for the Bride & Groom GUARANTEED

ADVANTAGES

resort credit per room

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Can be used towards spa and beauty, romantic dinners, wedding packages and much more!

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PARTICIPATING RESORTS Cancun/Riviera Maya, Mexico Beach Palace • Isla Mujeres Palace • Le Blanc Spa Resort • Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort Playacar Palace • Sun Palace | Cozumel, Mexico Cozumel Palace | Montego Bay, Jamaica Moon Palace Jamaica Grande

Contact your travel agent

aircanadavacations.com/groups New bookings only. Subject to availability at time of booking. Subject to change without notice and cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion. Offers expire at 11:59 p.m. ET on the date indicated. Flights operated by Air Canada or Air Canada rouge. For applicable terms and conditions, consult www.aircanadavacations.com. Holder of Quebec permit #702566. TICO registration #50013537. BC registration #32229. n 1Valid for bookings made between Dec. 1, 2015 and Feb. 28, 2016 for travel completed by Dec. 31, 2017. 2Valid for travel completed by December 23, 2016. One credit per room, per stay. 3Valid for groups of 20 or more. Subject to availability, on select flights. 4Valid on select flights only. n ®Aeroplan is a registered trademark of Aimia Canada Inc. ®Air Canada Vacations is a registered trademark of Air Canada, used under license by Touram Limited Partnership, 1440 St. Catherine W., Suite 600, Montreal, QC. 11415

contents 4 5 6

EDITOR Why couples choose destination weddings.

TRAVEL CHECKLIST List everything you need so nothing is overlooked. PICTURE PERFECT How to look fabulous, regardless of the sun and heat.

INVITATIONS Mail them early and include all the details.

10 REAL WEDDING

A couple tell the story about their own destination wedding.

BEING WED IN FRANCE Do your homework before you plan to be married in another country.

26 14 16 18 20 22 24

JUST CRUISING ALONG Sailing away to a memorable honeymoon. THE RIGHT LOCATION Get help in finding the perfect spot to say “I do”.

LATEST TRENDS Get up-to-date in finding new ways to express your individuality.

PACKING LIGHT The secrets to efficient packing.

WATCH THE WEATHER Choose the right place at the right time to get great weather.

SECOND TIME AROUND

GOODLUZ, AALTAIR/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM, DEANNA DI CARLO

Make a second wedding entirely different from the first wedding.

26 28 30 6

10 DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 3

SAVOUR THE SITE Check out the history of the country to get the full experience.

TIMING IS EVERYTHING When and where are key.

THANKING YOUR GUESTS Acknowledge those who travelled to be with you on your wedding day.

editor

MEMO FROM THE

You’ve decided to have a destination wedding. There may be many reasons that brought you to this decision: ☐ It avoids trying to please parents, friends and new in-laws as you try to plan an at-home wedding that will appease everyone. ☐ It will be less expensive when compared to the 250-guest bash your parents wanted you to have! (Likely you will have 15 or 20 people, although some destination weddings have as many as 40 or 50 guests.) ☐ It reduces stress because you can turn the decision-making over to a wedding planner who is often supplied, at no charge, by the site. However, there still are decisions for you to make and the timing of these is critical. A destination wedding should be planned eight months to even a year prior to the wedding date. You need to give time to the people you hope will come with you. They have to set up a personal budget, apply for time off work, perhaps arrange for a babysitter – and they will want to do a little research on what flight reservations and overall costs fit their budget. I encourage bridal couples to budget for at least one trip to the site before their commitment is finalized. Make that visit during the same season as your wedding . Don’t make the visit during their sunny season and then book your wedding during their rainy season! This visit lets you make choices as you accumulate the knowledge that will reduce disappointment. Start with the legal requirements when being married in that country. For instance, you may have to spend a specific number of days in the country prior to the wedding. If you are a widow or divorced, you likely will have to provide legal documents that confirm your status. During the visit, you can choose the exact spot for the service. The choice will connect with what you want to wear. A groom doesn’t want to be in a tux if he is being married on a beach. And his bride needs a gown without a train and veil which inevitably get snagged when walking ‘down the aisle’ – when that aisle is a sandy beach! On this visit you will have a chance to sample the cooking. Food is a huge factor in wedding planning and you may need to preplan for more than the reception. You may decide to host a cocktail party the evening before the wedding and will want the food to be fabulous. Or you may want to host a luncheon the day after the wedding. Decide whether the reception will be a buffet or a sit-down. Will it be out-of-doors? Work out a menu and sample each of your choices. Check out options for Plan B, in case of inclement weather. As your guests likely will stay a week, it is thoughtful to arrange a couple of events. Maybe a beach game, with prizes, a tour of the area or deep-sea fishing. If you are being married in a major city, such as New York, you might arrange to have tickets to a play or other event. Your guests have given you a huge gift when they agreed to join you at your destination wedding, so put them high on your agenda when you make your plans.

EDITOR Bettie Bradley ART DIRECTOR Susan Rogers ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR Patrick McCormick VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING David Baker SENIOR WEB STRATEGIST Matt Doris ASSOCIATE WEB EDITOR Amanda Bloye ONLINE CONTENT MANAGER Angela Rotundo VICE PRESIDENT, PRODUCTION Patrick McCormick ACCOUNTANT Carol Fagan OPERATIONS MANAGER Trevor Baker ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER AND SALES COORDINATOR Starlene Courts-Hedd PUBLISHER Donald Swinburne ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Shannon Dameron DIRECTOR, DESTINATION WEDDINGS Susan Cianfarani RETAIL SALES MANAGER Jennifer Gigis PRESIDENT Donald Swinburne SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT/ GROUP EDITOR Bettie Bradley SECRETARY-TREASURER Robert Wright DIRECTOR, CORPORATE DEVELOPMENT Brian Baker CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD Donald Baker DestinationWedding Magazine and its logotype is a registered trade name of Family Communications/Communications Famille Inc. The publication is subject to copyright and may not be reproduced by any means without permission of the publisher. Destination Wedding Magazine is produced and distributed semiannually. Publication available without charge through selected bridal outlets. Available at more than 8,000 newsstands across the country. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or visual material. Made possible with the support of the Ontario Media Development Corporation.

FAMILY COMMUNICATIONS/ COMMUNICATIONS FAMILLE INC. 65 The East Mall, Toronto, Ontario M8Z 5W3 416-537-2604 Fax 416-538-1794

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DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 4

checklist KENARAY820/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

YOUR TRAVEL

Do your homework before you take off to another country to be married. If you don’t have all the right information and documents, it could be awkward. It’s a good idea to keep abreast of anything happening in that country that is disturbing, such as civil unrest and even unusual weather patterns. Get all the necessary travel documents well ahead of time. Travelling with a passport is best, even if that country accepts just birth certificates or even a driver’s license. At the other end of the spectrum, some countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond the dates of your trip. Regardless, you still have to get back into your own country! So always travel with a passport and see that it is up to date. Check your destination country’s tourist visa requirements for more info. Make a duplicate of all your travel documents and leave them with a family member or friend. That should include: ☐ your passport ID page ☐ an outline of your itinerary if you plan to go exploring ☐ your hotel and its phone number ☐ airline tickets ☐ driver’s license ☐ credit cards. You’ll avoid a heap of trouble if you avoid packing any items that the various governments have listed as a no-no, such as anything that is sharp, like scisssors, tweezers and knives as well as baseball bats. This list may include items that seem harmless enough but can pose a threat to security – such as bottles with liquids greater than 100ml.

Get up-to-date advice from The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority’s Pack Smart. Check to see if Canada has an embassy or other office in that country that you can turn to in the event of an emergency. Do you plan to rent a car and do your own exploring? If you’re going to Europe, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Most European countries are careful about allowing tourists to drive without the appropriate license, and your Canadian provincial license doesn’t apply! Check out the local laws of your destination. You have to abide by that country’s laws and, should you be arrested, our government can’t help you. Vaccinations are not a problem if you are going to a popular country that welcomes visitors and relies on tourism but, to be sure, check it out. Some countries do require visitors to carry an International Certificate of Vaccination or other proof that you have had certain inoculations. Just in case of an accident or if you, or one of your guests, need medical help abroad, check what is covered by your provincial health plan. If you take any medical prescriptions, bring along enough to last for the entire trip. It’s a good idea to ask your pharmacy for the generic equivalent name of your prescription in case you do need to purchase additional while away. Check the Public Health Agency of Canada’s website (phac-aspc.gc.ca) and click on Travel Health site for travel advisories for your destination. Most destinations chosen for destination weddings offer very few problems, but if you’re planning on something off the beaten path, remember the Boy Scout motto: Be Prepared!

DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 5

picture perfect

Looking and feeling pretty all day. BY ERIN SILVER You’ll likely take more pictures during your wedding vacation than at any other time of your life. And there’s a secret to looking natural while looking your best. “Looking beautiful on the beach isn’t as hard as you might think,” says trend artist Maddox Lu. “You just need a few essentials.” Here are Maddox’s suggestions:

LASHES Some people like semi-permanent lashes or false lashes, but each has its pros and cons. Semi-permanent lash extensions look great, but can be high maintenance because they require you to exchange your whole makeup and skin care regime to one that is completely oil-free. False lashes look great, but if you swim, cry or perspire, they could loosen and start to peel off. Durable high-performance mascara is probably the best solution. Choose a great mascara that won’t budge. You can control how bold or natural you make your lashes with the number of coats you apply. The good news is that you can swim and sweat until the end of the day when you can take it all off. DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 6

LIPS Choose a long-wearing soft pink lip colour. It looks natural but helps define your lips and makes them look luscious. The most flattering pink lip colours are those that have a blue-base because they appear to brighten and whiten your teeth. They also tend to give a lift to your complexion and cheeks. Pink lips, as you laze on the beach, are natural-looking as well as appearing soft and appealing. A long-wearing liquid lipstick or regular lipstick are both good options. Liquid lipstick holds its colour, even when you are eating, and doesn’t need to be re-applied during the day. A stain is the best option. A lipstick , including a liquid lip colour, is a coating you put on your lips, but a stain literally stains your lips and the colour won’t go anywhere. As an added bonus, you can also use a stain on your cheeks.

AALTAIR/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

COMPLEXION Tanning products will warm up skin. There are tons of self-tanning products on the market. You can get a professional spray tan or you can do it yourself at home. Look for all-natural vegetable-based products that don’t stain, streak or smell. A self-applied “tan” can last from one to three weeks, depending on the formulation you choose and how carefully you treat your skin. If you exfoliate often, your tan won’t last, but using shower gel and body lotion will help prolong your beach glow, long after your vacation is over. BRINGING THE ESSENTIALS When you are organizing the products you need to take with you, consider both space and weight. Forget the big bottles. They take up too much suitcase space. Whenever you can, get the smallest size, while keeping in mind that your beauty and skin care products are an even greater necessity when you are travelling and are often exposed to extreme conditions. DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 7

invitation

A destination wedding invitation requires much more detailed information than an at-home invitation. It all starts with a save-the-date. If you can manage to get that sent as much as eight months to even a year before the wedding, you’re on the right track, because a destination wedding has its own set of logistics. The greater the distance, the more urgent the need to give all the details up front. A trip to Europe takes a lot more engineering than a ski trip to a local resort for a winter weekend. Your guests need to understand that they will pay their own expenses. This will be made very clear when you include the hotel or resort prices. Sometimes a bridal couple courts a problem by financially helping out one close friend who feels that the trip is unaffordable. The problem is that, unless that friend is very discreet, it doesn’t seem fair to those guests who are absorbing the full cost. If you do decide to help out a friend financially, urge them to keep your generosity between the two of you. Their inclination is to want everyone to know about how helpful you are being so you can take a bow, but their spreading their good news can easily backfire.

TIMING An at-home wedding invitation should be sent six to eight weeks before the wedding. Destination wedding invitations, however, should be sent at least three months, and preferably earlier, before the wedding to give guests time to make plans. While it is true that the recipients already knew the date (thanks to the save-the-date mailing), this confirmation sets their plans in motion. Details they need to know can be listed on your wedding URL and be kept updated throughout the planning process. Necessary details include: • name of hotel or resort • specific location • base airports • group rates negotiated by you on their behalf • recommended and less expensive alternate places to stay • flight rates, with recommendations of when, where and how to get the best prices. • dress code • full itinerary: specific outline of the plans, such as the reception, any wedding eve cocktail party, any postwedding breakfast, and/or any other social activities that you may be hosting. WHO IS INVITED You may be ready to invite anyone who is willing to shell out the cost. More likely, however, you have a small list of those who are significant in your life. Mail invitations and save-the-dates only to those you really want to share the experience with you. To avoid hurt feelings, keep your information off social media sites that are easily accessed. A destination wedding is almost always a small group that involves just family and your closest friends. So don’t rub the noses of those who may be offended by not being invited. Avoid sending your plans to the world via social media!

DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 8

INVITATION SUITE COURTESY OF PALETTERA CUSTOM CORRESPONDENCE

Your invitations must include all the details.

ONLY

SPECTACULAR IS JUST THE BEGINNING AT PALACE RESORTS Take your special day somewhere incredible with Air Canada Vacations and Palace Resorts. Get married with your toes in the sand on some of the best beaches in Cancun/Riviera Maya, Cozumel, and Jamaica. Plus, enjoy all the features of amazing All-Inclusive Palace Resorts with endless activities, gourmet dining and world-class service. Choose one of the their colourful themed wedding collection packages like Romantic Red or Lavender Luxury, or customize to create the dream day you’ve always imagined. Book your wedding group with Air Canada Vacations to a Palace Resort by February 28, 2016 and get a free 2-category room upgrade for the bride & groom guaranteed, and up to $1,500 resort credit per room that you can use towards spa and beauty, romantic dinners, wedding packages and much more! You’ll also get all the Air Canada Vacations Wedding Groups Advantages that include free seat selection, free upgrade to business class for the bride & groom, including access to the Maple Leaf™ Lounge, free flights and stays for every 21st and 22nd passenger – and even free storage space for your wedding dress onboard the plane. Conditions apply to these offers, so contact us today to learn more and start making your dream a reality. Contact your travel agent or visit aircanadavacations.com.

THE BEST BEACHES IN THE CARIBBEAN The Luxury Included® Vacation You can experience the very pinnacle of luxury in a Caribbean Luxury Included® wedding with Sandals Resorts. Their Luxury Included® resorts are sprinkled throughout the Caribbean. Every resort is different, but the things they have in common are gorgeous tropical settings and some of the world’s most exquisite beaches. And don’t overlook the Gourmet Discovery Dining for two. It’s all part of the Luxury Included® experience that also includes golf and scuba diving for certified divers. If you are planning a destination WeddingMoon®, check out Sandals. They have become a leader in Caribbean destination weddings and honeymoon packages. In fact, weddings are such an important part of the Sandals experience, that every resort provides a wedding planning dream team from pre-travel to your big day, assigned to you, to look after all the details for you, at no charge. Every Sandals Resort has its own personality. For example, Sandals Royal Bahamian, in Nassau, Bahamas, has a sophisticated European flavour. It was once the private club for 1940s high society such as the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, and later a hideaway for celebrities – including The Beatles while they were filming Help! Today, it offers two unique destinations in one; the resort, with its Roman colonnaded pools, exotic firepits, ten specialty restaurants and the award-winning Red Lane® spa, plus its own exclusive offshore island with two beaches, a chic beach club, romantic adventures, and the region’s finest seafood restaurant. But you will want to check other possibilities with Luxury Included® packages offered at Sandals Resorts in St. Lucia, Jamaica, Antigua, the Bahamas, Grenada and Barbados. Each provides its own experience, from Jamaica’s warm reggae pulse to the Bahamas’ sophisticated beat, from St. Lucia’s volcanic majesty to Antigua’s exotic allure, from the spice aromas of Grenada to Barbados’ vibrancy and charm. It’s all waiting for you.

DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 9

destination

“WE CHOSE A

Andrea worked in a bank and Stephen was a customer. She says, “There was instant chemistry. He was hedging about asking me out so, to make it easier for him, I wrote my phone number on the back of his receipt.” Their first trip together was to Jamaica and they loved it so much that they decided that when they got married, it would be in Jamaica. Andrea says, “We chose Sandals Ochi in Ocho Rios because we wanted a resort where we hadn’t yet stayed. Eleven of us made the trip, so it was intimate and very personal. “If we’d been married at home, we would have had between 90 and 130 guests and the cost would be quite a bit more than $20,000, so by going away, there was a significant saving. We did, however, have a big party for family and friends when we got home.” Stephen is not a big partier and enjoys his friends in small groups so this was an ideal choice for him. Andrea is outgoing and likes big weddings, but felt it was more important that they both feel comfortable.

THE WEDDING DAY

The couple decided to exchange vows at 4 p.m. when it would not be as hot as mid-day. They had each written their own vows. The reception, on the veranda outside the Piano Bar, was only about an hour long. They chose the veranda because they wanted overhead covering to escape the direct sunlight. It was an ideal spot, overlooking the ocean, and where they had their first dance, cut the cake, made a toast or two and served cold and hot hors d’oeuvres along with a signature cocktail that was developed specifically for them. They took a great many photos, including when they were just having fun, such as when they all put on the sunglasses that Stephen and Andrea had given to each of their guests. Andrea’s best friend is Deanna Di Carlo whose passion is photography. Her camera never stopped working! As a result the couple have so many great pictures that tell the whole story, from beginning to end. After the short reception, everyone got out of their wedding clothes and met again at the Teppanyaki restaurant for a dinner that was full of fun and laughter. DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 10

WEDDING”

Andrea and Stephen Coggins share their experience

TIPS FROM ANDREA AND STEPHEN

PLANNING THE WEDDING It was such a small group that Andrea and Stephen didn’t feel they should expect much help from the wedding planner that was offered by the resort. That turned out not to be the case – size didn’t matter. They said they had help about planning every detail. They bought an all-inclusive package – flight, accommodation, all restaurants, open premium bar service plus the service of the specialized representative who took care of “pretty much everything” such as booking in, checking out, restaurant reservations, room service, and access to the air conditioned Club Sandals lounge “where we picked up cold water, bottles of Red Stripe beer, other premium alcohols and treats.” The couple picked the Beautiful Beginnings package which, they say, was free with a stay of five nights or more. Andrea says, “It helped us celebrate our special day with elegance and simplicity.” The package included a sweet fuchsia dendrobium orchids bouquet and boutonniere plus a table for eight with crisp linens, a floral centrepiece and a wedding cake. The extra table they needed cost $100. Another expense was $110. for Andrea to have her hair done. The couple was thrilled that there were no surprises when the bill was presented. They say that “because we booked five rooms through our guests, we were upgraded from a half-hour service/reception to an hour. We went longer, but nobody complained!” Then hot and cold hors d’oeuvres were served as well as a champagne toast and complimentary cocktail. Andrea and Stephen say that working with a planner by phone and email was sometimes a bit of a struggle, but it was very different dealing eye-to-eye when they arrived and could meet with their planner in person. The couple say that the wedding planner at the resort was lovely, friendly and helpful and she managed to get everything done perfectly and on time.

Accept help from your friends. A friend took my dress home

and another brought one of my bags down.

Go with the flow. I didn’t waste time having the recommended hair trial.

Being with our friends was more important than perfect hair.

Check cost options. It would have cost $600 more if we had married

at 5 p.m. instead of 4 p.m.

Be frank with the resort. If we had wanted a special dinner reception

it could have cost from $40 to $65 per person, so we took advantage of our packages being all-inclusive. Play your own music. We were allocated a specific time to play our own music so no cost was involved. Buy a dress that is transportable. My skirt was huge and transporting it was a nightmare. Keep everything! Record conversations and save emails because memories are rarely accurate. DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 11

WEDDINGS BY RIU

Exclusive weddings and unforgettable ceremonies in Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean

Choose from a great variety of destinations to celebrate the wedding you´ve always dreamed of, then select the package that best suits your needs so you and your guests experience the perfect ceremony surrounded by the natural beauty of these Caribbean and Pacific Coast beach paradises. Each package is designed to adapt to your personal style and is available in all their destinations, including their newest and most exotic locations. Just relax and let them pamper you with the experience and personalized service that characterizes RIU.

ROYAL WEDDING PACKAGE: The perfect combination of simplicity and sophistication guaranteed to make every wish come true on such a special day. For the couple and 18 guests. CLASSIC WEDDING PACKAGE: One of the best options for celebrating a classic and at the same time elegant wedding, all complemented by nature´s beauty and the exclusive personalized attention they give you. FREE WEDDING PACKAGE: For couples who would like a beautiful ceremony without worrying about costs, they offer a free package for you to enjoy with up to eight guests. RIU Hotels is well known for their unique and personalized service, as well as for their 24-hour all inclusive program which features a variety of entertainment, activities and local and international gastronomy included with all of their wedding packages. INDULGENCE PACKAGE: This is their latest and most innovative option created for couples wishing to live each moment of such a special day in absolute tranquility and intimacy. Available exclusively in their adults only hotels and in their resorts with adults only areas. This option also includes enticing added values along with additional spa and wellness treatments and services so you can be pampered even more.

france

GETTING MARRIED IN

When a couple considers getting married and having a honeymoon in Europe, the choice of country is often where their parents or grandparents were born. The second choice is often France, because of its emotional connection with love and romance. And Paris is such a glorious city. The French, however, don’t make it easy for you to get married in their country. It starts with ensuring that your passport is up-to-date, That’s the easy part! A civil ceremony is the only legally binding ceremony, and these civil ceremonies can only take place in the Mairie (Town Hall). As well, one of you must live in France for 40 days immediately prior to the civil ceremony. A religious ceremony can only take place after a civil ceremony has taken place. Even getting an application to marry is tough: one of you must live in France for 30 days before an application for marriage can be made. The marriage application, otherwise known as the marriage banns, must then be posted at the appropriate Mairie (town hall) no less than 10 days prior to your wedding. You also need a medical certificate, blood tests done by a French doctor, proof of residence and proof that you are not already married. Is there a way to have your wedding in France without all the hullabaloo? Yes. There is. To avoid the difficulties, many couples quietly have a civil sevice in Canada so they are legally married when they step on to French soil. The French have no interest in your wedding and perhaps saying your religious vows because, legally, you are just a married couple on holiday and your wedding is just a lovely party!

DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 12

AD PASSION PHOTOGRAPHY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

CAPRICE WEDDING PACKAGE: One of their most elegant and complete options for couples wanting to truly live each and every unforgettable moment. An experience to share with 38 guests.

cruising

JUST

ALONG

Sailing to a memorable honeymoon.

Everyone has their own version of their wedding day, and this version tends to focus on the bride’s vision rather than the groom’s. Many brides have had a wedding-day dream since they played at getting married when they were just little girls, but the groom’s daydreams, as a child, are more likely to be about being a firefighter when he grows up! The bride’s fantasy may be a large, traditional service in a church or temple, followed by a glorious dinner reception. Or it may be a destination wedding, with a few friends sharing the experience on a beach in a warm southern island. Europe may be a destination that allows you to embrace the best local customs of the chosen country. Celebrating your nuptials on a large cruise ship may appeal to guests as well as the bridal couple and their family. The almost daily stops at different ports guarantee a full experience.

You will have to work a little harder when planning to be married on a cruise ship compared to being married at an upscale resort, where everything from a wedding planner to officiant, photographer, videographer, wedding cake and special menus for various parties you may choose to host are provided. However, with the cruise ship stopping at different ports almost daily, it provides interesting and varied activities for you and your guests to enjoy. COST The cost depends on the length of the cruise, the destination and whether you are booking ‘Contemporary/Premium’, ‘Luxury’, or ‘River’. When setting up your cruise budget, don’t forget to factor in airfare to the point of departure, the cost of tours at the various ports and gratuities. While meals are included, you may be able to pay extra to book an exclusive dining room for you and your guests for the wedding day dinner.

WHO GOES WHERE

CONTEMPORARY/PREMIUM

LUXURY

RIVER

Most popular months

December

October

September

Most likely to purchase travel insurance

Yes: 20%

Yes: 23%

Yes: 31%

Time between booking the cruise and the sailing date

6 months

9 ½ months

DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 15

MICHAELJUNG/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

CruiseCompete tracks cruising trends monthly, including the different choices made by ‘contemporary/premium’ compared to ‘luxury’ and ‘river’ choices. These results are based on their surveys as of September 2015.

BY SUSAN CIANFARANI

PHOTOGRAPHY DAVE COX PICTURES, PLANNING INSTYLEDESTINATIONSWEDDINGS.COM, GROUP TRAVEL INSTYLEVACATIONS.CA

YOUR WEDDING IN ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA

perfect site

FIND THE

to match your personality and your style.

Discover one of the most romantic wedding and honeymoon destinations in the Caribbean. The islands of Antigua and Barbuda are known for their 365 beaches, one for every day of the year. These glamorous and luxurious islands offer an array of incredible backdrops for a destination wedding.

Antigua, a very popular sailing island, also hosts one of the premier sailing events in the world. Imagine your destination wedding on a luxury yacht with the incredible coastline as your backdrop. This provides another great and unique wedding venue option. There are many other wonderful possibilities for your wedding venue; historical buildings which cater fully to weddings. These unique and exclusive properties offer you and your guests a destination wedding with a story, along with great service, great food in a very stylish and unique setting with incredible vistas. Take a look at what Antigua and Barbuda have to offer. Experts there can can help you find the best option for you that expresses your personal style and vision.

It’s the little details that add up to give your wedding its own individual style. What are your dreams made of – sophistication and high style? Rustic charm? Barefoot on a beach? What is your favourite sport? Skiing? Snorkelling? Golfing? Tennis? Build your activities around your preferences in each of these categories. Like to cook? Are you a foodie? Pay attention to developing an amazing reception menu that your guests always will remember. Keep an eye on costs. Put your money on the activities and choices that matter most and make other items a lower priority. RECOLLECT THE PAST To give yourself a head start, go down memory lane. Where did the proposal take place? Was it based on location... Paris, New York, Vancouver? You can use the location to set your theme. Was your proposal based on food in a favourite restaurant? Highlight the food and share the memories of the moment with your guests. How did you meet? Where did you go on your first trip together? What interests did you share? All of these are starting points that will help you build a whole new set of memories when you re-live your wedding day experience.

DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 16

ANATOLY TIPLYASHIN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Your beach wedding in Antigua can include one of the most dramatic sunsets in the Caribbean, or you may prefer the pink sand beaches of the chic and casual island of Barbuda.

PHOTOGRAPHY DAVE COX PICTURES, PLANNING INSTYLEDESTINATIONSWEDDINGS.COM, GROUP TRAVEL INSTYLEVACATIONS.CA

the beach is just the beginning...

WWW.VISITANTIGUABARBUDA.COM

what’s new? Current trends set a high bar. BY SARA CURTIS

FLOWERS If you are being married in a southern island, take full advantage of their glorious local flowers, says Helen Pispidikis. Floral arrangements have moved away from the very structured to the more organic and whimsical. Rustic weddings – whether held in a barn in the country or on a beach – are increasingly popular. “In a rural setting, you can go very rustic, with hanging lights, mason jars filled with wildflowers or a combination of rustic and glam by bringing in chandeliers and candelabras. Use harvest tables but add crystal and sparkle.” Weddings in more traditional urban settings – like a warehouse or banquet hall – also reflect this nature-inspired trend; hanging lights, candles, branches, ivy or trees are being brought into the space. If the site of the wedding is a southern resort, nothing extra is needed because the site, itself, will provide a lovely background.

ATTIRE If you are being married in a warm climate, be aware of fabric and keep it light-weight. Ideally, go for a floating look, with a sheer fabric. Abroad or at home, the trend in wedding dresses for 2016 is on free flowing and whimsical, with 3D embellishment or layering on the fabric with lace and sequins, or more organic appliqués like leaves and floral prints. And they don’t need to be white or ivory; splashes of pastels and vibrant jewel tones in accessories are increasingly popular. “Brides are interpreting current trends in their own way. If they love colour, they want to do colour.” says Helen.” Vibrant colours for bridesmaids’ dresses are also on trend.” DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 18

FOOD Individuality can shine in food and beverage – whether at home or abroad. Food stations have been popular for several years, but now they often reflect a couple’s culture – a paella station for a Spanish couple or a filled-to-order cannoli station at an Italian wedding. Helen recently planned a wedding for a Greek bride and an Austrian groom: “We did a huge ice sculpture and on one end ouzo came out, and at the other, it was peppermint schnaaps. It was such fun and really represented the couple.” Helen recalls a recent wedding where a British groom was marrying his Canadian bride. The late-night option was – what else – fish and chips, served in customized newspaper cones. Large, traditional wedding cakes are often replaced by less formal options like a selection of smaller cakes in different flavours, or tiers of cupcakes, or pies and tarts that are served later in the evening as part of a dessert table. DÉCOR AND ENTERTAINMENT If you are being married in another country, you can still celebrate your culture. At the British/Canadian wedding, the theme was carried throughout the event – a Beatles tribute band played at the reception, the sweet table consisted of imported British chocolate and candy and the runner down the aisle was customized in royal red with a gold crown, which Helen and her team designed as the monogram for the wedding. It appeared on everything from the invitations to the custom popcorn bags on the sweet table. Other interesting options: Custom vinyl dance floors, printed with anything from a monogram to a colour or even a picture that represents the theme of the wedding, like an ocean floor or a snowflake. These are increasingly popular, as are underlit portable plexi bars, with a picture of the bride and groom or any other custom photograph. Entertainment is sometimes elaborate: acrobats, ethnic dancers and musicians, cigar rollers, even burlesque entertainers are being hired to give weddings memorable appeal. “However,” says Helen, “you don’t need to spend a lot of money to find creative ways to make your wedding special. No two weddings are the same any more – nor should they be.” DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 19

PHOTOGRAPHY DAVE COX PICTURES, PLANNING INSTYLEDESTINATIONSWEDDINGS.COM, GROUP TRAVEL INSTYLEVACATIONS.CA

MORI LEE STYLE 682 (GOWN), BIGGUNSBAND AND RUTH BLACK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Weddings are a reflection of the times. Your wedding will be different from your mother’s, and very different from your grandmother’s. The only constant that embraces all weddings: two people committing to each other before family and friends. “Today’s weddings are focused on the couple’s personalities and cultures,” says Helen Pispidikis, owner and senior planner at Weddings by Design in Toronto. “Most couples don’t have a totally traditional white wedding any more. They may incorporate traditional elements, but much of the event is tailored around who they are.” The biggest trend in weddings: less formal, more personalized. And an increasing number of destination weddings. Here are some of the ways this is being played out in 2016.

From rustic beachside simplicity to the elegance of an 18th Century Plantation Great House – Rose Hall has the perfect setting for your dream wedding! Our team of expert wedding planners will ensure your day is only about you...

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pack right PACK LIGHT

Extra bags are an extra expense

DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA â€¢ 20

Experienced travellers can go around the world with a carry-on. That doesn’t mean that most of us can pull off this miracle, but we can take a few tips from those who know how to play the angles. START WITH ONE TO-DO LIST Almost everything we do in life starts with a list, and packing is no exception. 1. List the probable range of temperatures of your destination. 2. List all the likely sight-seeing. 3. List all the sporting activities. 4. List all the probable dressup activities. 5. Note the number of days you will be away. 6. Note the toiletries you need. This is your working list, and it clarifies exactly what you need. NOW EXPAND ON YOUR LIST Beside each of your activities (and keeping in mind the temperature of your destination), list exactly what clothes are needed for each activity. Now the fun starts. Note what clothes are washable and can be worn over and over again. You can make terrific cuts in your packing if, each time you go exploring or sight-seeing, you wear the same outfit. Set aside the minimum in lingerie and nighties – these are easy to hand wash and keep fresh. See what items can do double-duty. That beach coverup can

look lovely when worn with pants for the evening. And the top of the two-piece bikini, with pants, can be really sexy. Yoga pants can double as pajamas. A sarong can also be a wrap. START SHOPPING Get the travel size in all of your toiletries – even your perfume! Then tuck them inside your shoes so they don’t take up any extra space. And speaking of shoes. Take one pair of high heels for dressup evening activities, one pair of comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing and shopping, and one pair for the beach. It’s a holiday and impressing the other guests with a wide wardrobe (which, trust me, they won’t notice) shouldn’t be at the top of your list! If you have done a good job of reducing your original list, you can pack in a carry-on with, perhaps, one small suitcase. Remember that, these days, your luggage is a costly addition to your flight fare. ALL THOSE EXTRAS It is surprising how throwing in last-minute extras can add up. All those travel books and maps you have been collecting should stay at home. Talk to the local rep after you arrive and get filled in on what’s available and what must not be missed. You don’t need to take the latest books with you, either. Take just a tablet with your reading material (and also so you can share your holiday with friends at home). It is likely that your hotel or resort will have WiFi and that makes it convenient and easy. GETTING READY TO PACK Lay everything out. Add the extras that give your ensembles punch. Inexpensive but interesting jewellery and a couple of great scarves are good additions. Leave your expensive jewellery at home, but interesting faux jewellery can put your ensembles over the top. When everything is laid out, go back to that original list and reassure yourself that every activity is covered. And, just to be a real minimalist, see how many more items you can live without! You may be getting close to those world travellers who take only a carry on. But maybe that’s asking too much!

EVERY EXPERIENCED TRAVELLER HAS HIS OR HER OWN BIASES ABOUT WHAT WORKS BEST. SOME THINK THAT ROLLING THEIR CLOTHES AVOIDS CREASING. OTHERS INSIST THAT CAREFUL FOLDING IS THE ANSWER. THERE’S NO RIGHT OR WRONG, SO PICK YOUR OWN STYLE.

HERE’S HOW IT ADDS UP:

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• • • • •

Rolling is more effective with pants, jeans, T-shirts and knits. These roll exceptionally well. The secret in rolling effectively is to roll very tightly. Dress shirts and dresses travel better when carefully folded. When, on arrival, you have wrinkles, every good hotel or resort provides irons and ironing boards. Wear bulkier items on the plane so they don’t have to be packed.

IN THE CASE Finally, you are organized and ready to pack. Start with your shoes - these are the most awkward items to pack, but when they are in place you can fill in around them. Inside the shoes, pack lingerie, toiletries, jewellery or other small items. Carry all your documents and any medications with you in your purse or carry-on. Then, tuck in the heavier rolled items and put the crushables and folded items on top. Finally, weigh it to ensure you’re not going over the limit.

DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 21

THE CARIBBEAN AND MEXICO Palladium Hotels and Resorts takes a fresh look

Recently, the five-star resort properties announced the expansion of their destination wedding offerings to include a unique and customizable romantic South Asian wedding package, “Shaadi Royal Bliss.” The package honours their most valued South Asian traditions with a vibrant, multi-day wedding ceremony and celebration. Available at Palladium Hotels & Resorts in Montego Bay, Jamaica; Riviera Maya, Mexico; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, the Shaadi Royal Bliss package, is designed by wedding expert Karen Bussen. The flexible multi-day package features up to four deluxe events with chic flowers and customizable décor and color palettes. Karen Bussen’s Simple Stunning Wedding highlights Palladium Hotels & Resorts’ Pure Paradise, Island Pearl, Waves of Love, Bliss in Bloom and Tropical Promise packages. Couples can upgrade and effortlessly piece together the destination wedding of their dreams. New for 2016: the resort introduces its Free Weddings at Palladium, offering couples that purchase the Love Birds package the chance to say, “I do” with a bouquet, boutonniere and Justice of the Peace for free. The Free Weddings package is available from January 1, 2016 through December 31, 2017 at Palladium Hotels & Resorts in Jamaica and Punta Cana. Weddings by Palladium offers luxurious packages while meeting every type of imagination and budget. Palladium Hotels & Resorts specializes in destination weddings, vow renewals and honeymoons with Weddings by Palladium. For more information visit www.palladiumweddings.com

Find out the possibilities... and the probabilities.

There are a plethora of things to be aware of when planning a destination wedding: legal requirements of the country, residency limitations, proof that you’re single and more – all of which you can and will work through. But what is the one factor that is most often overlooked? It’s weather. Every country has its own seasons, including rainy seasons, and that warm sunny day you are counting on may be evasive. You likely will visit the country before you make a commitment. But too many people forget to make that important trip at the same time of year they will be married. What a disappointment if you make that first visit when the weather is glorious and then set a date that doesn’t take into consideration whether it falls in the hurricane, monsoon or very hot, dry season! You pay a price, of course, for the promise of good weather because prices can vary a great deal between low season (when weather is unpredictable) and high season (when weather should be lovely).

AN EXPLORATORY TRIP So, your first and most important decision is to coordinate your exploratory trip with your actual trip in terms of weather. However, while you’re there: ☐ check out venues ☐ talk to wedding suppliers ☐ work within your budget ☐ see what extras you can negotiate ☐ arrange photography (check out the quality of their work) ☐ research flowers that are appropriate ☐ make a list of the cost for every event you are hosting so there are no unpleasant surprises when you get your bill ☐ get a cost for each addition separately so you know exactly what you are paying for Dealing with people face to face is a huge bonus. The suppliers will feel more involved when they can put a face to the person who is emailing them. And remember that there is no more important information you need to nail down than probable weather!

DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 22

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Weddings by Palladium at Palladium Hotels & Resorts is redefining what it means to have a “destination wedding” in their Caribbean and Mexico properties.

wea er ma ers

YOUR DAY, YOUR WAY Rock your wedding at the all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotels

second time around Make it totally different from your first wedding.

Couples looking to tie the knot should check out the all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotels in Mexico and the Dominican Republic. They offer rock star quality weddings individually designed to make a lasting impression. Couples are now opting to inject their own personal style into their big day and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, Hard Rock Hotel Cancun, Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta and Hard Rock Hotel Rivera Maya can mix and match any of nine exclusive and spectacular collections personally designed by celebrity event planner Colin Cowie. Once couples have chosen their look, a team of wedding specialists step in, handling every little detail including ceremony location, florals and décor, the ceremony, reception, dinners, and so much more. Then they can kick off their honeymoon with one of three signature honeymoon packages. These honeymoon offerings keep the fun in full swing. (Newlyweds receive $1,800 Limitless Resort Credit to spend any way they want: unlimited golf, excursions, tours, romantic couples massages at the Rock Spa® and more. The world’s only all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotels – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, Hard Rock Hotel Cancun, Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta and Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya – offer all-day, all-night, all-included experience for guests of all ages. Show-stopping amenities include luxury accommodations, in-room hydro tubs, fine dining, top-shelf drinks, WiFi, 24-hour room service, live entertainment and unlimited long distance phone calls to the United States, Canada and Mexico. To book your wedding or honeymoon at an all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotel, contact a travel specialist at InStyle Vacations and InStyle Destination Weddings at info@instylevacations.ca, 905-850-7895, 1-855-243-0875 (toll-free).

Planning a second wedding, either after a divorce or a bereavement, raises a host of questions. • Is it appropriate to have a large wedding when you had a large wedding the first time? • Is it okay to wear a formal white gown and veil? • Is it inappropriate to expect gifts if friends have given you wedding gifts at the first wedding and if it was in the last four or five years? • How large a wedding is suggested? • May our children be part of the wedding party? All of these concerns can be solved when the couple makes one decision: have a destination wedding. It will be a new experience compared to the first wedding (and comparisons are best avoided). The number of guests will solve itself because only family and best friends can be expected to attend a destination wedding. The gown can be white if that is your most flattering colour, and it can be any length (but don’t have a train). A veil is inappropriate and, anyway, it’s a nuisance if you’re getting married on a beach. Avoid gift-giving. Many couples ask those who are attending their destination wedding not to give a gift. They feel that the expense of attending the wedding is the gift! Have your children participate. Children – and even grandchildren – can be part of the wedding. It is a wonderful way to embrace them so that they better understand the concept of your sharing your lives with each other, and that the sharing includes them. THE DETAILS When the decision has been made to have a destination wedding, you can push ahead and have all the traditions that are important to you.

Have a photographer who knows the area intimately. This is a

wise choice because only local photographers can give you the best pictures because they know every nook and cranny of the area.

A local bakery can provide a wedding cake. They will understand what will stand up to the local heat without melting away!

Check out menu options. The hotel or resort will give you reception menus so you can pick and choose. You may choose a sit-down dinner or an afternoon cocktail or tea party or a breakfast. Think of what would most please your guests who, after all, are on their holiday, too!

DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 24

YOUR DAY

ALL YOUR OWN Walk down the aisle of iconic luxury. Customize your wedding experience and infuse your personal style with the picturesque sands of paradise. Mix & match any of 9 spectacular collections by celebrity event designer Colin Cowie, including a COMPLIMENTARY COLLECTION* featuring gorgeous designs at no additional charge. Once you’ve chosen your look, let us handle the details. Our Wedding Specialists can book rooms and flights, arrange events, and manage all the ins and outs of planning a destination wedding. Keep the fun in full swing after the wedding with one of 3 signature Honeymoon Packages including the COMPLIMENTARY HONEYMOON PACKAGE, which comes standard. We’ll even set you up with $1,800 LIMITLESS RESORT CREDIT** to spend any way you want: unlimited golf, nearby attractions, or even a couples massage at the legendary Rock Spa® — it’s up to you. For more information, please contact: InStyle Vacations and InStyle Destination Weddings Visit: www.instylevacations.ca / www.instyledestinationweddings.com Email: info@instylevacations.ca Call: (905) 850-7895 or 1-855-243-0875

*Restrictions apply. **A 20% service fee will apply over the final price of all transactions using the Limitless Resort Credit promotion on all services or products available at Hard Rock Hotel Cancun, Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana and Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta. Service fee can only be paid with cash, room charge and credit card. Service fee cannot be paid with the remaining Limitless Resort Credit promotion balance.Other restrictions may apply. Please refer to website for full Terms and Conditions.

EXPRESS YOUR OWN STYLE

site

SAVOUR THE

A bespoke wedding experience at Beaches

You become engaged, and suddenly there are so many decisions to be made about planning your wedding. Will you decide to get married in your home town and go on a honeymoon immediately after the wedding? Will you decide to combine the wedding with your honeymoon?

However, more are combining the wedding and honeymoon in a destination wedding because the experience delivers elegance, romance and fun, all while allowing them to keep control of their expenses. For them, the perfect solution is the all-inclusive resort in a beautiful location – and that is what Beaches Resorts offer. For starters, check out Beaches Resorts located in Negril and Ocho Rios in Jamaica, and in Providenciales in the Turks & Caicos islands. You will find the ultimate experience with a wealth of activities along with the promise that unforgettable memories are a part of the package. Beaches Resorts’ excellence in service is expressed in countless ways – from the welcome of champagne and cooling towels, to the extra special touches of butlers trained to the exacting standards of the Guild of Professional English Butlers. You will discover every type of activity, theme waterparks, outdoor adventure tours, and a variety of international cuisines that make every meal a gourmet experience. And all of this comes with a best price guarantee. (It’s also nice to know that Beaches Resorts have received so many international awards for their excellence.) So choose the destination that is right for you, invite your family and friends to join you and accept the help of a nocharge wedding planning dream team from pre-travel to your big day! All you have to do is pack your bags and get ready for the time of your life. And a final thought: leave your wallets behind!

Soak up the history of the country You are choosing another site – probably another country – for your wedding day, but it would be a mistake to get so involved in the wedding, itself, that you don’t take time to enjoy the country. You may choose the location because it is a place that you have enjoyed in the past, or it may be a place you have aways wanted to visit. There are the usual practical elements that you obviously need to know, such as information about the local currency, the exchange rate, local warnings about where not to exchange Canadian cash for local currency (it’s often advised to only make exchanges at the local bank). You will want to know about local buses, taxis and rental cars. For intance, do the taxis have metres or should you establish a price before you take off? This is all basic and helpful information, but you can enrich your experience by learning about the country. BROADEN YOUR EXPERIENCE Find time to read about the history of the country. Pick up books on the culture and the habits of those who live there. All countries have rich histories and it is guaranteed that you will become more excited about your visit if you become acquainted with its present and its past. Check out the historical places that you must visit. Set up an itinerary that includes the usual sports and other tourist activities, then add the extras that will enrichen your experience. If you’re a foodie, dig into their local specialties and best places to eat. Shopping is a must when you are in another country. What are the best local crafts and where can you find them? Is this a culture that likes to bargain or are items sold at a fixed price? (Bargaining is part of the fun in some cultures!) Perhaps plan an excursion for yourselves and your guests. It can be even more fun when sharing an interesting experience with friends. Your visit will be more memorable if you take in your surroundings, the people, the popular culture, the scenic sites and the historic landmarks.

DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 26

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Only you can answer these questions because, today, every couple designs their own experience.

Happily ever after starts here.

Celebrate your love with the ones you love.

Resorts

by Sanda ls

TURKS & CAICOS • JAMAICA

The day you’ve dreamt of your entire life should be shared with the people who mean the most to you, and at Beaches®, your dreams come true. After you say “I do,” you get the honeymoon of a lifetime while your guests enjoy their own vacation, with every land and water sport, waterparks, and Gourmet Discovery Dining at up to 21 restaurants. Begin your new life together at Beaches, because when everything is included, anything is possible.

beaches.com/weddingmoons • 1-877-BEACHES • or call your Travel Professional M O R E Q U A L I T Y I N C L U S I O N S T H A N A N Y O T H E R R E S O RT S I N T H E W O R L D

WEDDING & HONEYMOON BEACHES FREE* BEAUTIFUL BEGINNINGS WEDDING WITH A THREENIGHT STAY OR MORE! INVITE FAMILY & FRIENDS AND THE HONEYMOON IS FREE*, TOO!

*Visit www.beaches.com/disclaimers/todaysbridespringsummer2016bch or call 1-800-BEACHES for important terms and conditions.

WHAT’S YOUR WEDDING STYLE?

BY SUSAN CIANFARANI

timing

IS EVERYTHING

Explore the many unique venue options and locations available to host your destination wedding. Beach weddings are very popular and are easily available with most destinations. Hotels can be different, but one item they have in common is providing and executing beautiful destination weddings with trending florals, decors, entertainment and more.

If you want to avoid the highest rates, dodge the disappointment of fewer available venue options while also escaping the crush of tourists, book your wedding off-season. You will save money for you and your guests and have your choice of accommodation. But there’s an obvious reason for booking in the high season. That’s the best and most reliable weather of the year. However, there is a shoulder season (between the high seasons). Be aware, though, that some activities and shops close for the low season. If you bite the bullet and choose to have your wedding in the high season, book early and then get a save-the-date off to those guests who will likely share your experience. Do take a trip to your probable destination before you make a final decision – and definitely take the trip during the season that you will be booking. That is the only way to taste the possibilites before you make a commitment.

The possibilities available for destination weddings are endless and can be specially designed with unique venue selections rich in culture, history and adding your personal style. A medieval village in Tuscany can be a dream come true, providing a backdrop with incredible history and architecture. Or imagine a castle in Ireland overlooking the beautiful green countryside.

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“When” is as important as “where”.

Coastline backdrops in the Caribbean islands are beautiful, or perhaps consider an eco-friendly wedding in Mexico.

In Style Destination Weddings and In Style Vacations are leaders in the travel industry, so if you are looking for the perfect place to be married or a luxury honeymoon, their goal is to exceed your expectations. They always provide a stress-free event providing memories of a lifetime. INSTYLE VACATIONS FOR GROUP TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS INSTYLE DESTINATION WEDDINGS FOR EVENT PLANNING GISELLA PERRI PHOTOGRAPHY, LEADING DESTINATION PHOTOGRAPHY

DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 28

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If exclusivity is important, why not consider being married on a private island? This offers a totally different experience for you and your guests.

VISIT SARDINIA An extraordinary place to stay

anks

SAYING

TO YOUR GUESTS The special

role of destination wedding guests.

The guests you hope will make the trip to be with you at your destination wedding deserve a little extra attention. IT STARTS WITH THE “SAVE-THE-DATES” The guests you hope will attend your destination wedding need plenty of time to make their arrangements. You need to include as much detail as possible: the destination, the date and the name of the hotel or resort so they can check out their own possibilities.

Forte Village is located on the beautiful south coast of the Mediterranean island of Sardinia. It has received many awards, including the ‘World’s Leading Resort.’ Set in 47 hectares of gardens and parkland spread along a soft white sand beach. The resort offers eight hotels in styles ranging from the elegant Hotel Castello to deluxe bungalows, villas with butler service and luxurious suites with panoramic sea views. What an extraordinary place to stay for a wedding. During the high season (July and August) up to 21 restaurants provide a feast of buffets and gourmet dining which includes distinctive restaurants such as Hell’s Kitchen and the Cantina (wine cellar), and restaurants by famous Michelin starred chefs such as Gordon Ramsay, Alfons Schubeck’s Spice for Life, a gourmet restaurant with all the health benefits of haute cuisine blended with medicinal spices, and the authentic regional cuisine of Trattoria Italiana by Emanuele Scarello. Float in the six thalasso pools immersed in the tropical gardens of the unique Acquaforte Spa. Select from a broad range of health and beauty treatments, massages, sports therapies and physiotherapy. Apart from the spa there are magnificent pool areas with cascades and pools for children. For the active, in July and August Forte Village offers a range of sports facilities and sports academies, many with coaching by world class champions. For tennis players, there are 12 clay courts with evening lighting. End a perfect day in the piazza Maria Luigia with its bars, fashion boutiques and evening entertainment or simply relax with a nightcap looking out across the starlit Mediterranean Sea at night. Forte Village, simply extraordinary.

THE INVITATIONS More specific information should be included with your invitations. Enclose a pamphlet about the location, prices for room and flight, the events you have planned and are hosting because that will somewhat reduce your guests’ costs. WHO PAYS FOR WHAT? Guests pay for their own accommodations and travel costs. However, couples who can afford to take on the expense can elect to pay for the accommodations of their guests or perhaps cover the travel costs. WHERE WILL YOU GO? The bridal couple will, of course, choose the destination. However, they should be aware that this may not be a place that some of their guests would choose for their own holiday. So the cost to travel to a destination that would not be their choice becomes a major factor for these guests. WHO WILL GO? Sometimes the bridal couple’s attendants and parents are the only guests. On the other hand, some guest lists can run as high as 50 people – but this is considered a large destination wedding. The average travel cost of train or flight, per person, is about $500. A WEDDING WEBSITE Develop your own wedding website. This is an efficient way to keep your guests updated. Changes will occur regularly and guests who are taking the trip with you need to get all the current info. WHAT TO WEAR Make sure the guests know what the expected attire will be, perhaps via your website. You don’t want an embarrassed guest in a tux while everyone else is in jeans. COSTS TO GUESTS This can be a financial burden to someone who is close to you and feels that they must attend. Travel and accommodation are just the beginning. They have to take time off work and perhaps arrange for care of small children or pets. And then there is the wedding gift! THE WEDDING GIFT While a wedding gift is expected by most couples, there is a thoughtful trend: Some bridal couples insist that the expense involved by guests in attending their destination wedding should be offset by asking their guests not to give them a wedding gift. They consider the expense involved in attending the wedding is truly the gift!

DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 30

WHERE THE EXTRAORDINARY HAPPENS

WORLD’S LEADING RESORT 2014

WORLD’S LEADING SPORTS ACADEMY 2014

Free* Wedding & Honeymoon With any stay of three nights or more, your Beautiful Beginnings Wedding is complimentary and includes a magniﬁcent twotiered white fondant wedding cake topped with dendrobium orchids, bridal bouquet, groom’s boutonniere bouquet and reception table centerpiece of fuschia dendrobium orchids. Invite your family and friends and your honeymoon is free*, too!

Say “I DO” to a Bespoke Wedding Exclusively Important — Resorts visit www. at Sandals ®

sandals.com/disclaimers/wedIt’s the day you’ve dreamed about your entire life.Your or by call wedding day.dingbellsfallwinter2015 A celebration of your love, surrounded the people who mean the most to you. And when you select a 1-800-SANDALS for Terms bespoke destination wedding at one of 15 Sandals Resorts, you can haveand all theConditions touches of a traditional wedding—with

your choice of color palette, ﬂowers, décor and cake—including a professional Wedding Planner who will take care of all the details on your special day, so you can focus on what’s truly important, each other. Best of all, when you get married at Sandals, your honeymoon begins the moment you say “I do.”

Love Is AllYou Need, Everything Else Is Included The #1 in Destination Weddings and Honeymoons

sandals.com/weddingmoons 1-877-SANDALS or call your Travel Professional

Included Special Touches • • • • • • • • •

Preparation of marriage documents Musical accompaniment (pre-recorded) Picturesque wedding location with white Chiavari chairs Sparkling wine and cold hors d’oeuvres reception for up to eight guests including bride & groom Personal wedding website Sandals wedding and honeymoon gift registry Honeymoon mimosa breakfast in-bed Honeymoon dinner in a specialty restaurant 5 x 7 honeymoon photograph, wedding gift and decorated honeymoon room

JAMAICA • ANTIGUA • SAINT LUCIA • BAHAMAS • GRENADA • BARBADOS *Visit www.sandals.com/disclaimers/todaysbridespringsummer2016 or call 1-800-SANDALS for important terms and conditions.