Destination WEDDING
Real Weddings JAMAICA GREECE MEXICO ENGLAND
FA L L / W I N T E R 2 0 1 7
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ASK THE EXPERT:
YOUR PLANNING QUESTIONS ANSWERED THE ROMANTIC SIDE OF LAS VEGAS BEAUTY
slay
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CALL OUR WEDDING CEN T E R F O R DE TAILS | 1. 876 . 618. 6 40 4 *Big Day Preview applies to US and Canada adult residents only. Credit is valid for minimum $2,500 wedding program. Limit one Big Day Preview credit per wedding. Best room availability suite category restrictions may apply. Applies to new bookings only. Offers valid through December 15, 2017. Other blackout dates may apply. Offers may be changed or withdrawn at any time. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Additional terms and conditions may apply, see our website for full details. Hyatt Zilara™ and Hyatt Ziva™ trademarks and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation or its affiliates. ©2017 Hyatt Corporation. Playa Hotels & Resorts, an authorized operator and owner of Hyatt Zilara™ and Hyatt Ziva™ resorts in Jamaica and Mexico. All rights reserved. HZZRH-DESTWED-BIGDAY-062017
Destination c o n t e n t s WEDDING
FA L L / W I N T E R 2 01 7
20 Off the bridal path
Choose a unique venue.
23 Niagra-on-the-Lake historic beauty. and wine.
24 Aruba Sara Monika
sunsets and white sand.
28
4 Wedding notes
Messages from the editor and director.
Q&a with a beauty expert.
8 A thing of beauty add these makeup products to your kit.
10 In her shoes
gorgeous wedding day footwear.
12 Dress for romance beautiful destination dresses.
14 Ask the expert: planning
Make the process easier.
16 Following the rules Photo: Amanda Lloyd
20
Editor Amy Bielby Contributing Editor Angela Rotundo dirECtor, dEstination wEddings Susan Barone-Cianfarani art dirECtor Catherine McKenny Contributing art dirECtor Dale Vokey viCE prEsidEnt, produCtion Patrick McCormick viCE prEsidEnt, MarkEting David Baker sEnior wEb stratEgist Matt Doris 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 rEtail salEs ManagEr Jennifer Gigis prEsidEnt Donald Swinburne
Etiquette is different for destination weddings.
sEnior viCE-prEsidEnt/ group Editor Bettie Bradley dirECtor, CorporatE dEvElopMEnt Brian Baker
Quiet romance away from the slots.
27 Bahamas
sixteen islands to explore.
ReAl weDDinGS:
6 Slay all day
18 Travel well
26 Las Vegas
explore your destination!
28 Jamaica
say “i do” with your toes in the sand.
30 Greece
two cultures, two lovely ceremonies.
34 England
bringing back british traditions.
36 Mexico
vibrant colours and fireworks.
38 Property pages
don’t know where to start? here are some location suggestions.
46 In the bag!
surprise guests with welcome packages.
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 semi-annually. 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.
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wedding notes Amy Bielby | EDITOR There’s not much that gets me more excited than travel or weddings. Combining the two is pretty much my perfect storm of happiness. I will never tire of either, and the reason is that nowadays, couples are really stepping up their game to make their weddings unique and enjoyable for their guests. When planning a destination wedding, it is extra important to consider your guests’ feelings and timetables. Ample notice should be given to fit a week’s vacation into busy schedules and to save money for travel. You’ll want the important people in your life to be by your side on the big day, so make it as easy and stress-free as possible. Inviting loved ones to a destination wedding is a big ask – be as helpful as you can. And don’t be insulted if people decline; chances are they want to be there, but it just isn’t feasible. For the guests that do attend, give them some memories. The special touches you add to your destination wedding will be remembered and appreciated – like welcome bags in the rooms, group breakfasts and organized excursions (but don’t overschedule your friends and family!). Speak to your wedding planner about how you can create a memorable experience during your wedding – fireworks, a delicious menu, a cultural dance or musical performance, or maybe a beach bonfire. All these things will draw your guests closer together. Congratulations on your engagement, and happy planning!
Susan Barone-Cianfarani | DIRECTOR
DAVE COX PICTURES
Congratulations to those of you who recently got engaged and a warm welcome to our fourth issue of Destination Wedding Magazine.
MAGICAL MOMENTS
MAKE YOUR MOMENT UNFORGETTABLE #LOVEANTIGUABARBUDA
All of the weddings I plan are very special and important to me. One of my most recent weddings this year was a magical event in the Tuscan countryside with the Montepulciano hills as the majestic back drop for a beautiful vintage wedding. A private villa, which was home for all the guests, showcased original frescos and antique furniture throughout. The property also had an incredible garden full of roses. In addition to the unforgettable wedding, the bride and groom arranged a private excursion to the historic town of Siena, where the ancient Palio horse race still takes place today. Adding special group tours is a great way to build memories of a lifetime for you and your guests. In this issue we bring you useful tips from the experts, to help make your destination wedding planning easy and simple. I hope you find this issue helpful and inspirational. Thank you for letting Destination Wedding Magazine be a part of your wedding planning journey.
facebook.com/antiguabarbuda @antiguabarbuda @antiguaandbarbuda FOR MORE INFORMATION VISITANTIGUABARBUDA.COM
DESTINATIONWEDDINGM AGAZINE .CA • 4
Only one wedding per day. Making you the Star.
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Enjoy being a star
slay
all day
Beauty secrets to keep your look fierce from morning to night.
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Whether you’re on the beach or in a centuries-old castle, you’ll Want to look great all day, With minimul fuss. makeup and hair artist Sabrina rinaldi offers her advice.
Beach weddings involve sweating: is there any way to sweat-proof your makeup?
A ❯ There are some brands that do a great job with waterproof foundation. Or, alternatively, you can buy drops to add to your foundation to help make it water (sweat) proof. Makeup Forever makes these types of drops or they can be found at theatrical makeup supply stores. You can also buy a makeup setting spray to seal your makeup.
What are three products that every bride should use?
How can you make your makeup last all day?
A ❯ It depends on your
skin type. If you are prone to oily skin, you can use a mattifying primer and set your makeup with a good dose of translucent powder. Use blotting papers for touch-ups throughout the day. If your skin is on the drier side, use creambased foundations and blushes to keep skin looking fresh. If you find that makeup settles into fine lines throughout the day, mist the face with a water misting spray and blend out any makeup that is stuck in creases.
And what about humidity when it comes to hair?
How can a bride optimize her makeup when it comes to photos?
A ❯ I suggest going
for a medium level of intensity (not too minimal, but not overthe-top glam either!). Blot or powder your t-zone, touch up lipstick and check for any smudges before photos. Have someone you trust standing by the photographer to fix stray hairs in between shots.
Are there colours to avoid for super sunny beach locations?
A ❯ To me, colours
don’t matter as much as texture. Anything too dewy will melt in the sun, so choose your products wisely! Make sure you and your partner wear spf – no need to get a burn and look like a lobster in your pics!
A ❯ AG Haircare has
a new natural line of shampoo and conditioner made with apple cider vinegar that helps control frizz and add shine. Remember that humid weather and air-drying isn’t a great idea. Heat styling with a blow dry and curling or straightening iron will help. The high heat will seal in shape and shine helping it to last the day. Also use a good dose of a humidity control hairspray (like TRESemmé).
A ❯ Waterproof mascara
– even if you don’t think you are going to cry! Lash extensions. Fake lashes can come unglued if you cry. This may be a nice opportunity to experiment with lash extensions. Try them before the big day to be sure you get the look you want. Proper lip colour. Choose a texture that isn’t too glossy or dewy since you will be kissing your partner and many guests. No need to leave a sticky residue behind! Also, the same can be said for red or bright lips – they will leave their mark on everyone!
Opposite page: PHOTOGRAPHERS: Carlos + Alyse carlos-alyse.com FASHION STYLIST: Nadia Pizzimenti nadiapizzimenti.com MAKEUP ARTIST: Angie Di Battista angiedibattista.com HAIR: Ashley Readings @ Plutino Group bridalmakeuptoronto.com MODEL Alexa (ElmerOlsen) DRESS Zimmerman, Holt Renfrew EARRINGS David Yurman NECKLACE Laurie Fleming KEY PRODUCTS MAC Cosmetics Blush in Dollymix, MAC Cosmetics Mineralize Skinfinish in Warm Rose, MAC Cosmetics Lipstick in Dubonnet HAIR Oribe Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray, Oribe Curl Control Silkening Creme
d estinationweddingm agazine .ca • 7
HIGHLIGHT
PRIME UNDER(COVER) PERFECTING COCONUT FACE PRIMER Marc Jacobs Beauty, $55
CORRECT
BROW HIGHLIGHTER Caryl Baker, $23
VITALIST ELIXER FOUNDATION, COVERGIRL, $18
TEASE TOTAL TEASE MASCARA COVERGIRL $13
A thing of
beauty These Tools will puT you on The righT Track for a sTay-all-day look.
POUT SEPHORA COLLECTION COLOUR LIP LAST Sephora, $18
PUCKER SPRITZ
PURE COLOR ENVY SCULPTING LIPSTICK Estée Lauder, $36
GUCCI BAMBOO, 50 ml, $109
d est i n at i onweddingm agazine .ca • 8
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There are no rules when iT comes To wedding fooTwear.
Consider your ceremony location and dress style when selecting the right shoe for you.
SHINE ON Lips Ankle Strap Sandals Nine West, Hudson’s Bay, $135
ON THE FRINGE Econi Fringe Sandal Guess, $139
ALL TIED UP Peri Tie Sandals Guess, $160
PRETTY TROPICAL Caderasen Ankle Wrap Flat Sandals Call It Spring, Hudson’s Bay, $40
BALLET BEAUTIFUL Velvet Ballet Flats Anne Taylor, $160
d est i nat i onweddingm agazine .ca • 10
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Dressed for
romance when it comes to destination dresses, go for romantic, fun and flirty.
clockwise from top left: Lillian West, style 6455 | Pronovias, style Olga | Lillian West, style 6467 | Enchanting by Mon Cheri, style 117174 Pronovias, style Alma | Nicole, style 17040 | Enchanting by Mon Cheri, style 117189
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Left page: Ella Rosa, Style #GA2300 Clockwise from top: Bonny, Style #6707 EnCHanTInG By Mon CHERI, Style #217109 | Calla BlanCHE, Style #17128 Ella Rosa, Style #GA2295 |Calla BlanCHE, Style #17126
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1
expert What is the best advice you have for couples planning a destination wedding? Plan early! It ensures you get exactly what you want, and with advance planning, you can carefully explore all the pros and cons: weather conditions, travel cost during specific seasons and date availability – especially if it’s a sentimental date to the couple
3
WhAt questions should couples Ask before choosing their locAtion? Once you have solidified your guest list, determine what exactly you are envisioning as it relates to selecting the location – ultra modern, historic elegance, indoor/outdoor, by the water or in a garden? Then ask:
does the venue have a rain contingency plan?
how many people can the venue accommodate at max?
is transportation easily available?
is it an exclusively private location, or will other people be onsite during the wedding?
what are the requirements for securing the location (deposit, minimum guests, etc).
4
What is the biggest difficulty planning with someone who is planning from another country? The biggest difficulty for the couple is not being able to have full control or not being able to see the location until maybe two or three days prior to the wedding – you have to be comfortable with that.
What mistakes do couples make when planning destination weddings? The number one mistake couples make when planning is assuming it will not rain, or assuming they can do it themselves without hiring a wedding planner.
5 hoW cAn couples mAke the process eAsier on themselves And on their plAnner? Couples can make the process easier by hiring a professional wedding planning expert from the initial stage to help with all the details. It makes the planning process pleasantly stress free and an enjoyable experience, especially for the couple.
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Shutterstock.com: Lucy Liu, ©AppleZoomZoom
Ask the
AlmArie WAlters is a destination wedding specialist with tropical weddings Jamaica. here, she answers our planning questions.
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By Connie Je ske Crane
following the rules Destination weDDings come with all new guiDelines when it comes to etiquette. here’s how to avoid drama and set the stage for your dream wedding. Flip flops, killer Mai Tai cocktails and the steady roll of the surf. For many couples, an easy vibe is all part of the appeal with a destination wedding. But even if you’re aiming for a super-casual celebration, following some simple etiquette rules along the way could help you avoid major curveballs. For instance, you don’t want to book that quaint Portuguese villa only to discover your best friend is pregnant and due the same month. (Surprise!) We spoke with Cheryl Bailie, manager/owner of Honeymoon Consultants in North Vancouver, BC and Lizzie Post, greatgreat-granddaughter of Emily Post and co-host of the “Awesome Etiquette” podcast. They gave us the no-nonsense etiquette guidelines for the modern destination wedding.
How can you ensure the people closest to you can come?
destination wedding, you’re not on the hook to pay for everyone’s tickets.
How can you show consideration to travelling guests?
Cheryl Bailie: Make sure that the family understands that this is what you want to do so it’s not going to conflict with everyone’s plans. Realistically, you’ll want to start planning a year before. It’s more or less like an annual vacation for the guests. You want to give them ample notice to apply for their time off.
Cheryl: Keep your guests’ budgets in mind. Hotels do often give a few complimentary passes for large bookings. Sometimes the couple will give that to a relative or somebody who’s a little strapped.
Cheryl: Book nonstop flights when possible, keeping flights under six hours, and enlist a specialized consultant to handle arrangements and advise guests on amenities, discounts and upgrades.
What about wedding gifts?
lizzie: Communicating with guests via a website or social channel is also incredibly important. Explain some of the activities that people can do, what the local weather is like at that time of year, etc. You really want to give them as many things to prepare themselves for this trip as much as possible. As the host, that is your obligation.
lizzie Post: Couples must retain control. Pay attention to your innermost circle, for sure – people who, if they weren’t there, you wouldn’t “feel” married. But you’re not crowdsourcing the best date for your wedding. That’s not how this works. You have to recognize that’s the nature of modern living if some people can’t make it.
When do you send save-thedates? Cheryl: As soon as you’ve covered off dates with your inner circle.
lizzie: I would still recommend registering for gifts even if you have a destination wedding. A lot of people want to give a gift and they’d really like to give something that you’d like.
want to Be extra thoughtful? Plan special icebreaker activities for guests so they can build lifelong memories. Shutterstock.com: ©JeniFoto, ©SeaRick1
Who pays for what? lizzie: Have a candid discussion about expenses. There is no “The bride’s family has to pay for this”. Many couples foot costs nowadays. Ask parents if they’d like to contribute and if they do, ask if there is a specific thing or amount they’d like to contribute. And yes, guests pay for their own travel. If you throw a
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By Dorothy Moggach
Become familiar Arrange for a city tour of your destination at the beginning of your trip. Many major cities offer a "Hop On/Hop Off" bus tour, but if you prefer you can also get a private tour. This is a great way to familiarize yourself with your surroundings, get ideas for how to plan your time, and even knock off some sites along the way. Let’s be honest, most people end up spending only a few minutes at places like Arc de Triomphe in Paris or listening to Big Ben in London. Why spend half a day trying to navigate a busy city for what may end up being just a few snaps or a short video? A hop on/hop off tour allows you to get to the destination, take the length of time you want or need to get the precious pictures, soak in the history and move on to the next location.
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Schedul e tourS at offpeak tim eS to avoid crowdS .
Shutterstock.com: ©oneinchpunch, ©Kiev.Victor
Travel well
tying the knot is your first priority, of course, But Don’t waste any opportunity to explore your Destination. Make the Most of your tiMe aBroaD with these tips.
Use your hotel concierge Once you book your hotel, use the concierge as a point of contact. If you need a dining reservation at a local hotspot, want to visit a market, need transportation to and from the airport, want to know what time of the day is best to see something, where to find the yummiest late night pizza or which bar makes the tastiest martini, ask your concierge. If you don’t use a travel agent to book your honeymoon, use reputable websites with 24/7 customer service. Read all the fine print if you opt for DIY style planning. The concierge will be able to point you in the right direction for almost anything.
One happy island
YOUR SHORTCUT TO
VOWS AND WOWS
Shutterstock.com: (top to bottom) ©Monkey Business Images, ©Dimedrol68, ©Rawpixel.com, ©Roman Babakin, ©waseber
Purchase tickets prior to your arrival Book tours, shows, daytrips and activities in advance to ensure you don’t miss out due to over booking, especially during peak travel times, which magically seems to coincide with wedding season. Avoid wasting time in lines. In the summer, it can take hours to get into Uffizi and L’Academia galleries in Florence, for example. Arrange a group tour, with a set start time and skip the line to make sure you get the most of your visit without standing in a lineup for hours.
Learn key phrases
You may want to take a basic language course while preparing for your wedding. It’ll help you get excited about your upcoming adventures. If a formal course is too much stress or time consuming, download an app to learn a few key phrases. These programs usually give you some insight into local customs, and cultural differences that you may encounter. (Good phrases to start with include: where is the bathroom, how much is…, and basic food items like water, coffee, beer and chicken.)
May I ask, where Is the bathrooM?
¿DónDe está el baño?
Know where to get help Find out if there is a Canadian consulate in the country you’re visiting. If the unthinkable happens, you’ll know where to go. Keep information like passport numbers, credit card contact numbers, bank phone numbers, driver’s licenses and other important items in a secure location, such as your hotel safe. If your wallet goes missing, you’ll be able to cancel everything quickly and provide information to get home. Let your banking institute know where you’re travelling and for how long. Leave copies of important documents with a trusted person at home.
Aruba is the picture-perfect backdrop for your dream destination wedding or honeymoon. Nestled outside the hurricane belt, Aruba’s sunny skies guarantee things will go off with only one hitch...yours. Discover Aruba’s special wedding and honeymoon packages today.
Plan your perfect SHORTCUT TO HAPPINESS today at weddings.aruba.com
BY R OS A L I N D ST E FA N AC
Off the
BRIDAL PATH TIRED OF TRADITIONAL? IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A UNIQUE WEDDING VENUE IN NORTH AMERICA, THERE ARE PLENTY OF PLACES TO TAKE YOU OFF THE TYPICAL BRIDAL PATH. HERE ARE 10 OF THEM.
TreeHouse Point, WASHINGTON Channel your inner child and take your vows in a tree house overlooking lush forests and waterfalls. Located about 30 minutes outside of Seattle, TreeHouse Point has overnight accommodations for up to 18 people. treehousepoint.com
Green Water Resort, BRITISH COLUMBIA
Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of British Columbia in an intimate garden wedding set against the Lillooet River in Pemberton, complete with waterfall and riverside beach.
PHOTO: AMANDA LLOYD
greenwaterresort.com
Art Gallery of Ontario, ONTARIO With a design that is a piece of art in itself, the AGO has several unique venues throughout its space. Opt for the Galleria Italia with its loads of natural light and room for a long, dramatic banquet table. ago.ca/host-your-event
Desert Botanical Garden, ARIZONA
dbg.org
Cambium Farms, ONTARIO
5
Go for rustic with exposed beams, posts and rafters in a century old barn, nestled on 50 acres in the heart of Caledon Hills. Equipped with a bar, lounge and DJ booth, you won’t have to give up any creature comforts either. cambiumfarms.com
D EST I NAT I ONWEDDINGM AGAZINE .CA • 20
Shutterstock.com: (Far left) ©Dr. Alan Lipkin
Hold a garden wedding with cactus as your backdrop. The Desert Botanical Garden has more than 50,000 outdoor plant displays and facilities to host anywhere from 10 to 300 wedding guests.
Edmonton Radial Railway, ALBERTA
Get married on a heritage streetcar in the middle of high-level bridge in Edmonton. It’s a ride your wedding guests won’t forget. edmonton-radial-railway.ab.ca/charter BOX CUBE PHOTOGRAPHY
Thorncrown Chapel, ARKANSAS Elope under the sunset at one of America’s greatest natural wonders. Enjoy a romantic picnic for two, equipped with gourmet treats, pillows and blankets.
Surround yourself with wilderness indoors in this magnificent wooden chapel with 425 windows and more than 6,000 sq. ft. of glass.
grandcanyonweddingpackages.com
thorncrown.com
Grand Canyon, ARIZONA
Shutterstock.com: (Left) ©Tom Penpark
Cornerstone Theatre, ALBERTA Have spectacular mountains as your backdrop in this small mining town of Canmore, just an hour outside of Calgary. The cabin-style theatre features a stone fireplace and authentic pine floors. cornerstonecanmore.com
Fogo Island Inn, NEWFOUNDLAND Revel in stargazing and ocean breezes on the 420-million-year-old rocks at the edge of the North American continent. It’s remote, but features the ultimate in fine dining and amenities. fogoislandinn.ca/b/celebrations
D ESTINATIONWEDDINGM AGAZINE .CA • 21
WHERE THE EXTRAORDINARY HAPPENS
WORLD’S LEADING RESORT 2014
WORLD’S LEADING SPORTS ACADEMY 2014
By NaNcy ForNasiero
Shutterstock.com: ©Kiev.Victor, ©Jon Nicholls Photography
niagra-onthe-lake
beautiful
DO YOU THINK the terms “extraordinary” and “made-in-Ontario” can’t logically coexist in a destination-wedding plan? Then you forgot to consider beautiful Niagara-on-the-Lake. Sumptuous historic landmarks, laid-back rural settings, stunning outdoor vistas, and much more can be found in this on-trend destination located just a short drive from Niagara Falls. Home to world-famous wineries, abundant fruit farms, picturesque parks, top-notch golf courses, lively pubs and restaurants, and some of the oldest heritage sites in the country, NOTL is an area that’s hard to characterize as any one thing. That’s what makes it so attractive to anyone planning a wedding that aspires to go beyond the usual. Plus NOTL’s
history
proven track record of excellence in tourism guarantees that guests will enjoy not just a memorable experience, but also one that’s uncomplicated and stress-free. With so many options, how to plan? Begin by visiting VineyardBride.ca, an expertly curated site that inspires by showcasing the region’s best weddings, and connects couples to pre-screened, quality vendors. One of these is Laura Beck (thevenuecounsellor.com) who has insider details about all the tried-and-true NOTL venues, as well as many exclusive out -of-the-ordinary location ideas. To give just a taste, Laura has recently helped couples tie the knot in an Italianate villa, an 1800s stone mansion, a whitewashed barn on a cherry farm, and in a hipster brewery.
getting there NOTL is a 90-minute drive from Pearson International Airport. A variety of public transit and private shuttle or limo services are available.
CANAdA’s OwN NIAgArA-ONThe-LAke PrOvIdes quAINT rOmANCe…ANd wINe.
Laura cautions couples to remember that “wineries are primarily in the business of making wine,” so although some do accommodate weddings, they’re often not as flexible and available as one might hope. Luckily she has no shortage of suggestions for alternatives, whether for fun, budgetconscious celebrations or extravagant affairs. The Vintage Hotel group is another good resource, especially if you’re the type who appreciates a no-fail template based on hundreds of successful weddings. They manage three acclaimed properties: The Queens Landing, with its southern glamour and charm; the Pillar and Post, a former canning factory with a country feel; and The Prince of Wales hotel which exudes royal opulence. Not to be forgotten are the area’s adorable Heritage Inns and B&Bs. They’re ideal for wedding guests’ accommodations, and also as venues for intimate weddings or rehearsal parties. Some, in particular the chic Woodbourne Inn, offer packages where the whole house is reserved as a “hub” for the family and/or wedding party. Guests have a place to pop in upon arrival to town, cocktail parties are held, and everyone gathers for a gourmet brunch; basically the inn becomes a relaxing and convenient home away from home. An added benefit is that NOTL has no shortage of diversions that can be enjoyed before or after the wedding – activities like wine and foodie tours, world-renowned theatre, shopping, hiking, sailing, boating, and more. Whether you’re aiming for traditional elegance or a boho country vibe, this easy-toaccess region has everything you’ll need to transform your unique wedding vision into reality.
places to host your wedding › › › › ›
The hare wine Co. theharewineco.com/estate willowbank historic site willowbank.ca white Oaks resort and spa whiteoaksresort.com kurtz Orchards kurtzorchards.com Chateau des Charmes fromtheboscfamily.com
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By Zoe Todd
surf, sand & sun
THE CARIBBEAN ISLAND OF ARUBA
conjures visions of a classic destination wedding, with amber sunsets and sand crunching underneath the airy trails of your wedding gown. Tucked in the southeastern corner of the Caribbean Sea, Aruba boasts a temperate climate with balmy breezes that offset the 27-degree average temperature. The island also lies south of the hurricane belt, making it safe for travel even during tourists’ off-season from April to August. Aruba’s blonde-beach shores reflect its popularity with vacationers. This picturesque patch of tropics is teeming with marinas, resorts and spas – ready-made venues for any wedding, from bare-foot chic ceremonies to receptions as polished as the sand. Years of catering to bridal parties has fostered a lively wedding industry on the island, making it an
getting there: westJet offers non-stop flights from toronto to the island’s only airport in Oranjestad, Aruba’s capital city. buses, taxis and rental cars shuttle your guests across the island, which is so small nothing is more than an hour’s drive away.
ArubA is A bAlmy islAnd wedding retreAt.
ideal destination for the couple that dreams of a special day without the planning headache. The iconic Alto Vista chapel perches on desert dunes near the island’s craggy northern coastline, offering a traditional wedding with sweeping views of the sea. Miles of beaches on the island’s south side overflow with a diversity of venues to fit any budget. Smaller groups can also set sail on a catamaran for an intimate reception at sea. During the day, azure waters and sunbleached beaches entertain guests of all ages with snorkelling, kite surfing and horseback riding. Further inland, golf is king – Aruba is sprinkled with manicured fairways. The more adventurous can explore the Guadirikiri caves or take a jeep tour along miles of rugged northern coastline, where wind whips the sea into a saltwater spray against striking rock formations. With its northeasterly slant, the
wind has also twisted local divi-divi trees into outlandish shapes that will charm the photographer in your group. At night, adults can play at one of the island’s numerous casinos or take in a live show at the Old Cunucu House, a popular restaurant. Nothing is more than an hour’s drive away on this tiny island, where English is widely spoken. Despite its size, Aruba is a sprawl of diverse landscapes that form breathtakingly romantic backgrounds for your wedding pictures. Pose in front of the California Lighthouse for a coastal vibe, or head to the beach at sundown for vibrantly backlit shots between palm fronds. Whatever your tastes, you’ll fly home invigorated, sunkissed and with an impressive scrapbook of wedding memories.
places to host your wedding › bucuti & tara beach resort: bucuti.com › Hotel riu Palace: riu.com › tierra del sol resort: tierradelsol.com › Amsterdam manor beach resort: amsterdammanor.com › manchebo beach resort and spa: manchebo.com
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Shutterstock.com: ©West Coast Scapes, ©Steve Photography
aruba
Happily ever after starts here.
Celebrate your love with the ones you love.
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 5- Star Global Gourmet™ dining at up to 20 restaurants. Begin your new life together at Beaches, because when everything is included, anything is possible.
WEDDING & HONEYMOON BEACHES FREE* WEDDING WITH A THREE-NIGHT STAY OR MORE!
*
Resorts
INVITE FAMILY & FRIENDS & THE HONEYMOON IS FREE* WITH A BUTLER HONEYMOON SUITE* & A LOBSTER DINNER RECEPTION*
Voted W orld ’s Bes t
®
by Sanda ls
TURKS & CAICOS • JAMAICA BEACHES.COM/WEDDINGMOONS • 1-877-BEACHES or call your Travel Professional
19
Y e ars In A R ow
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 *Visit www.beaches.com/disclaimers/tbfallwinter2017 or call 1-800-BEACHES for important terms and conditions.
LAs VEGAs
bright light
WHEN YOU THINK OF VEGAS, you might picture slot machines, crowded dance floors, showgirls and hangovers – which might be a great setting for a bachelor or bachelorette party, but a wedding? Turns out, away from the casino floors, Las Vegas can be a gorgeous and peaceful place, with a collection of wedding chapels (no, not the cheesy 24-hour kind) to suit anyone’s taste. And what’s really great, is that nearly every casino/hotel has knowledgeable wedding consultants and planners to help you create a dream wedding, from hair and makeup, to cake, to flowers. Caesars Palace, for example, is so much more than you see in the movies. Caesars actually has three beautiful indoor chapels
city
Who kneW Las Vegas had a soFT, romanTic side?
and two outdoor wedding gardens (see photo above). These types of elegant and romantic chapels can also be found all over the city. The venue possibilities are nearly endless and they all take place far away from the ding ding ding of the slots. But of course, you won’t want to miss the excitement of the city; this is what makes Vegas ideal for your guests. No one will ever be bored and everything is within walking distance. With little information, the city can be overwhelming, so emailing some helpful suggestions to your guests is a great start. The culinary experiences alone can take up all your time. To start, enjoy an unbelievable breakfast at Bardot (at Aria), lunch at Lago, overlooking the Bellagio fountains, and then
dinner at Twist (Mandarin Oriental), where you’ll drool over the food and marvel at the view. And speaking of views, adventure lovers can actually exchange vows while taking in one of the most breathtaking views in the world – the Grand Canyon. Sundance Helicopters offers several wedding packages that include a photographer and officient, if need be. Or, say “I do” at the top of the High Roller, the 55-foot-tall observation wheel overlooking the strip. There are no shortages of spas, salons, limo companies, florists – everything you need is right at your fingertips. And hey, if getting married by Elvis is your thing, you can make that happen, too.
getting there There are frequent non-stop flights to Vegas. Flight time from Vancouver: under three hours; from Toronto, just under five hours.
places to host your wedding › › › › ›
Venus garden chapel, caesars Palace: caesars.com mandarin oriental: mandarinoriental.com The Venetian: venetian.com keep memory alive centre: kmaeventcenterlasvegas.com aria’s Fireside Lounge: aria.com
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Photos: Cashman Photo for Caesars Palace
By Amy BielBy
THE ISLANDS OF THE BAHAMAS
sweet
sixteen
WHEN CHOOSING THE LOCATION for your wedding, you
might be thinking, “Well, I don’t want to go to that destination, soand-so was married there.” There’s no need to think that way. There are plenty of ways to make your wedding your own, and many locations to choose from within The Islands of The Bahamas. To prove this, The Bahamas hosted a 16-16-16 event: 16 weddings, each one at a different venue on 16 island locations, on November 16, 2016 (visit todaysbride.ca for photos!). While each of the Canadian couples had the same goal – to say, “I do”, each wedding was special and unique. And it’s all about location, location, location. The Bahamas comprises 700 islands – Nassau and Paradise Island, Cat Island, Bimini and Andros, just to name a few. The first step in the wedding planning is choosing which island and ceremony style suits you. The most developed tourist islands are Nassau and Paradise
getting there From Ontario, the flight is a mere three hours to paradise, making it perfect for a four-day getaway if guests can’t get away for a week.
With 16 island lOcatiOns tO visit, it’s easy tO plan a unique Wedding.
Island, The Exumas and Grand Bahama Island. Abacos, Bimini and The Berry Islands are great for fishing. For the ceremony style, you can choose scenic and secluded, tropical, a quaint church or toes-in-thesand vows. Venues can be set up for intimate gatherings or for large guest lists. Whichever island location you choose, you’ll be guaranteed clear, turquoise waters, soft white sand and warm hospitality. For adventure lovers, The Bahamas is ideal. From snorkeling and scuba diving, to surfing, to deep-sea fishing, to kayaking and casinos, you and your guests will never be bored. The Bahamas is comparable to Florida in terms of weather. June through November are its warmest months. Whereas December through May, the temperatures are cooler, but comfortable to visit the beach, take a trip downtown or swim with the pigs in The Exumas.
places to host your wedding › atlantis, paradise island, atlantisbahamas.com › tiamo Resort, andros, tiamoresorts.com › valentines Resort & Marina, harbour island, valentinesresort.com › grand isle Resort & spa, exuma, grandisleresort.com › the cove eleuthera, eleuthera, thecoveeleuthera.com
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REAL Weddings JAMAICA
Photographer: Sara Monika, saramonikaphoto.com
Courtney Pino There’s nothing like getting married with your toes in the warm, white sand. This is what Courtney and Pino did in front of 106 guests at The Royalton White Sands, Montego Bay, Jamaica.
D EST I NAT I ONWEDDINGM AGAZINE .CA • 28
your overall Feelings about the day: The day was even better than we could have imagined. We had no idea how everything was going to turn out once it was all put together, but the resort did an amazing job making sure everything was perfect and went smoothly. We loved everything about our day!
Favourite part oF the day: Our favorite part of the day would have to be the reception. Once all the speeches were done, everyone was able to let loose! toughest part to plan: The dĂŠcor for the reception. Having such a large group, we had to get creative with centrepieces because we would be travelling with it all, plus we wanted to keep everything affordable.
d est i n at i onweddingm agazine .ca • 29
REAL Weddings Gre ece
Photographer: Yiannis Alefantou, alefantou.com
Palak Stamatis With two wedding ceremonies – one Indian (Hindu) and one Greek, both on the island of Crete in Greece – this couple had plenty to celebrate with their 80 guests. Here’s what the bride had to say. d est i nat i onweddingm agazine .ca • 30
Your favourite part of each daY: For the Indian ceremony – the moment I walked barefoot down the aisle towards Stam, who I could see smiling from the distance. The grass and flower petals were beneath my feet, and I could hear the waves crashing and the instrumental music playing – it was serene. For the Greek reception – dancing the zorba!
unique aspects: Every event
was outdoors, each with it’s own backdrop – either of the sea, the mountains, the sunset or the starry sky. It was beautiful to be able to celebrate in nature, which you can’t always do with unpredictable weather in Canada.
toughest part to plan: Most decisions were tough because we were planning everything without being there, on different schedules and time zones with very different approaches (things happen much more last minute there). There was definitely a learning curve.
Would You have done anYthing different? I probably
didn’t need to worry about planning ahead of time, because the process in Greece is simply different – I had to throw all my Excel sheets out the window! We didn’t even see the venues until the week of the wedding, or pick the flowers and cake until two days before! I realized there’s no way to control how weddings are planned in different countries, but you can control whether you choose stress about it, and in the end, it was all magical
d est inationweddingm agazine .ca • 31
MEMOR ABLE SETTING S
for Exclusive Weddings
LET US CREATE YOUR PERSONAL AND UNIQUE DESTINATION WEDDING
A Romantic Medieval Village in a world class hotel all while in the beautiful rolling hills of Tuscany
An Elegant Caribbean Resort offering Weddings with magical views
PLEASE CONTACT US TO START PLANNING
W W W. L U X URYWEDDINGSWORLDWIDE.COM DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 33
REAL Weddings E NGLAND
Photographer: Wild Eyed Photography/Alex Neary, wildeyed.ca
Jessica Christopher Nuptials across the pond, in Shropshire, England, gave the newlyweds and their 85 guests too many special moments to count!
d est i nat i onweddingm agazine .ca • 34
Your favourite part of the daY: Having our guests throw confetti fol-
lowing the ceremony. It’s such a fun English tradition and we sourced our confetti from Shropshire Petals who specialize in local dried wildflowers.
unique details: We wanted to make sure the whole day had a very British feel to it. The venue was a gorgeous Georgian manor house in the country, guests were transported in a vintage English coach bus, we had Pimm’s cocktails and croquet on the lawn following the ceremony; dinner was a traditional Welsh roast lamb served family style and our cake was a classic Victoria sponge. toughest part to plan: Planning a wedding in England from our home-base in Vancouver had its challenges and was especially difficult considering the eight-hour time difference. I couldn’t do a hair and makeup trial before the big day due to timing so I was particularly nervous about that aspect.
hiccups along the waY: My
husband was admitted into hospital with acute pancreatitis and we had to postpone our trip. At one point, all of our family and friends were in the U.K. and we were sitting in a hospital room in Vancouver not knowing if we were going to be able to make our own wedding. Thankfully he recovered quickly and we arrived in England just in time for the big day. At that point, any details that went “wrong” were inconsequential!
REAL Weddings M E X ICO
Photographer: Ashley Drody Photography, ashleydrody.com
Jessica Chris
From White Rock, BC to Bucerias, Mexico, this couple and their 52 guests enjoyed a gorgeous wedding at Martoca Beach Garden.
D EST I N AT I ONWEDDINGM AGAZINE .CA • 36
YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF THE DAY: Our “first look”. I
was feeling very nervous and emotional leading up to that and seeing Chris for the first time that day completely changed everything. I felt as relaxed and happy as I ever had. We also surprised our guests with fireworks near the end of our first dance and had been looking forward to that moment.
TOUGHEST PART TO PLAN: The hardest part was choosing
a venue having never actually seen it and doing everything online. They were great though and answered every question we had. When we arrived for our rehearsal and saw it for the first time, we knew our venue choice was the best decision we could have made.
ADVICE TO BRIDES PLANNING A DESTINATION WEDDING: Get off the resort! A destination wedding doesn’t have
to be a really small ceremony and dinner on the beach at your resort; it can be personalized and unique to you. All those things you dream of having can be accomplished in a beautiful, tropical destination. Just look for places with great reviews and hire a really good planner.
UNIQUE ASPECTS OF THE RECEPTION:
We opted out of having a wedding cake and had fresh churros made onsite for dessert instead, which everyone loved! Same with the midnight taco bar!
PROPERTY PAGES
P NNING A
destination wedding
SHUTTERSTOCK.COM: KOTIN
CAN BE EXCITING, BUT OVERWHELMING! FIRST, CHOOSE THE LOCATION. HERE ARE JUST A FEW IDEAS TO GET YOU STARTED.
D EST I NAT I ONWEDDINGM AGAZINE .CA • 38
In Style DeStInatIon WeDDIngS the possibilities are endless
Explore the unique venue options and locations available to host your destination wedding. Beach weddings are popular and are perfect for combining wedding and honeymoon. Hotels can each be different, but one item they have in common is producing beautiful destination weddings with trending florals, décor, entertainment and more. The possibilities available for destination weddings are endless and can be specially designed with venue selections rich in culture and history, while 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. Coastline backdrops in the Caribbean islands are beautiful, or perhaps consider an eco-friendly wedding in Mexico. If exclusivity is important, why not consider being married on a private island? This offers a totally different experience for you and your guests. 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. For more information: instyledestinationweddings.com
Forte VIllage, SarDInIa an extrodinary place to stay
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. 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 and Alfons Schubeck (Spice for Life), a gourmet restaurant with all the health benefits of haute cuisine blended with medicinal spices. Don’t forget 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. For information: fortevillageresort.com
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exotiC CoConUt BAy BeACh ResoRt & spA
ARUBA
ONE HAPPY ISLAND
IN STuNNINg SAINT LucIA
Have it all at Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa and say “I do” in exotic Saint Lucia, the World’s Leading Wedding and Honeymoon destination. Your personal planner and extensive package inclusions make your destination wedding stress-free and as special as your love. You can welcome your friends and family at a bonfire beach party or an elegant rehearsal dinner, then sail to a picture-perfect sunset near the majestic, World Heritage Pitons by catamaran. Honeymooners are pampered in a romantic adults-only oasis at Harmony or the new luxury suites in Serenity at Coconut Bay (serenityatcoconutbay.com). Premium All-Inclusive amenities feature nine restaurants offering unlimited à la carte and buffet dining at indoor, outdoor and stunning oceanside locations, premium spirits at seven bars, five pools (two adultsonly), 1 mile of beach, in-room Wi-Fi, an oceanfront spa, the island’s largest waterpark, daily activities, nightly entertainment, airport transfers and more. Whether you are planning an intimate or grand celebration Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa has a package for your budget with every inclusion. Call 877-252-0304 or visit cbayresort.com/weddings
Imagine your walk down the aisle is along pristine white sand surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean. That’s what awaits you on the island of Aruba. With stunning natural beauty, warm and friendly people and some of the most spectacular sunsets around, Aruba will become your “happy place” to exchange vows. Plus, there are more than 30 top-rated hotels and resorts to suit every budget, with incredible restaurants, spas, pools and all the amenities you’ll need to make your stay even more memorable (plus keep your guests happy and relaxed). Home to world-class wedding planners and professionals, there will be plenty of help available to assist you with all the details of your big day. Choose from a variety of wedding styles for your nuptials, such as intimate and elegant or trendy and romantic. From the place settings, the cake, flowers and photography, the wedding professionals in Aruba will make sure your dream day comes to life. All you have to do is smile and say I do! For more information, real wedding stories, detailed planning tips and much more, visit weddings.aruba.com
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Big day PrevieW: see it to Believe it at Hyatt Zilara™ & Hyatt Ziva™ rose Hall
You can’t beat the value, beauty and ease of a destination wedding at a Hyatt all-inclusive resort. However, you may be concerned about planning and envisioning your big day from afar. But at Hyatt Zilara and Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall in Montego Bay, Jamaica you don’t have to, thanks to Big Day Preview. Big Day Preview allows you and a guest to experience two days of all-inclusive luxury at adults-only Hyatt Zilara or all-ages Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall. During your stay you’ll explore all of your options from wedding venues (think elegant ballrooms, rooftop terraces and beachfront gazebos) to cakes. Your personal onsite wedding planner will answer questions and guide you through a resort tour and special food tastings. While you’re visiting, you’re free to enjoy the resorts’ all-inclusive amenities, just like your guests will on the big day. The two-night stay for two costs only $500 and upon booking your date you’ll receive a $500 credit toward your wedding. It’s like getting your Big Day Preview for free! Book your Big day Preview now by calling 1.877.849.5432.
roMantiC PalladiuM Hotels & resorts UniqUe Wedding Packages
When it comes to selecting a romantic all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean for your destination wedding, there are about as many reasons to choose Palladium Hotels and Resorts’ as there are grains of sand on their pristine beaches. In Jamaica’s famed Montego Bay, weddings have taken on a new dimension at Palladium Hotels & Resorts. The five-star resorts have recently announced the expansion of their destination wedding offerings to include a unique, fully customizable, romantic South Asian wedding package: The Shaadi Royal Bliss. In addition to The Shaadi Royal Bliss package, couples can select from Karen Bussen’s Simple Stunning Wedding packages, which are carefully designed to highlight Palladium Hotels & Resorts’ unique features and settings, such as the Pure Paradise, Island Pearl, Waves of Love, Bliss in Bloom and Tropical Promise packages. These packages are complete with every design detail, hand-picked by Bussen herself, with the ability to upgrade and customize. With the help of a personal Palladium wedding planner, couples can effortlessly piece together the destination wedding of their dreams. Couples can contact Weddings by Palladium coordinators directly via new toll-free numbers. For Montego Bay, Jamaica, call (888) 442-3127. For more information and to book your dream destination wedding today, visit palladiumweddings.com
d est i nat i onweddingm agazine .ca • 41
luxury weddings wOrldwide
Ocean by h10 hOtels cuba Creating unforgettable memories
You and your guests will have the experience of a lifetime in a five-star resort with value-packed amenities. An Ocean by H10 Hotels in Cuba offers more balance than most tropical destination weddings because it enriches your stay by embracing and celebrating the local Cuban culture, adding color to your experience. Check out the Privilege category rooms. They include concierge services, access to a private lounge with top-shelf liquor and round-the-clock snacks. Your wedding day is the focal point, but all your days throughout your stay in Cuba, will be filled with fun and activity. Think of stunning white sand beaches, turquoise waters and lazing by a pool. Play tennis and water sports. Dine in theme restaurants. All in all, for you and your guests, it will be a fun-filled and memorable experience. Free Wedding Packages Available! For information: oceanhotels.net ejecutivo.comercial@oceanvistazul.co.cu coordinadora.bodas@oceancasadelmar.co.cu
PHOTOGRAPHY NIKKI MILLS
A team of wedding experts at Ocean are at your beck and call to ensure you have the wedding you have envisioned. With their experience and attention to detail, you will have an unforgettable wedding and memories to cherish. Whether your choice is a traditional, non-denominational or civil ceremony, all the arrangements will be looked after for you.
the name promises romanCe
Luxury Weddings Worldwide has been a leader in the travel industry for more than 30 years. Their experience and strong focus is on destination weddings and romantic travel. They specialize in custom-designed destination weddings, collaborating with the most unique and exclusive locations around the world. They are driven by a commitment to making each wedding one of the most memorable moments of a couple’s life. Their team of experienced wedding and event specialists create and design each destination wedding to meet the couple’s unique personal style. The choice may be a medieval village, a rolling countryside, an exotic beach or a beautiful historic city. Their team makes this a reality for each wedding. Luxury Weddings Worldwide is not your typical event planner. Their difference is that they make your wedding unmistakably your own. Their talent allows them to explore and design specialty weddings and events which encompass the culture, diversity and exclusivity of a destination. Are you ready for an unforgettable wedding experience? Contact Luxury Weddings Worldwide now to get started. For information: luxuryweddingsworldwide.com
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wedding packages by riu experience natural Beauty
an experience signature to sandals® Dream weDDing, perfect honeymoon
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 at 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. caprice wedding package: One of their most elegant options for couples wanting to truly live each and every unforgettable moment. An experience to share with 38 guests. 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: The best option for celebrating a classic and 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 cuisine 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 to pamper you even more. For more information: weddingsbyriu.com +52 (998) 848-7796 or email weddings@riu.com
sanDals south coast
At Sandals, we pride ourselves on your experience. That starts with our service. And we’re not above pulling out all the stops. It’s what we consider our signature recipe for giving you an elevated Sandals experience. We start with an impressive portfolio of 16 Luxury Included® Resorts situated on the Caribbean’s best sun-kissed shores. We’ve woven in water sports galore, top-tier suites complete with Club Sandals Concierge, and second-to-none Butler Elite service. The icing on top is having up to 16 of our 5-Star Global GourmetTM dining options to choose from, and Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks wines to wash it all down with. Simply put, your personal experience is our priority. With all of this, it’s no wonder more couples are choosing Sandals WeddingMoons® for their “I do’s.” Whether you want to host a signature offshore island soiree, take advantage of our group perks, or give your guests the world-class savoir-faire they won’t find anywhere, we make it possible. You can even exchange vows in one of our exclusive Over-the-Water Serenity Wedding Chapels, located at Sandals South Coast or Sandals Grande St. Lucian. It’s different. It’s distinct. It’s Sandals. For information: sandals.com/weddingmoons 1-877-sandals or call your travel professional
d est i nat i onweddingm agazine .ca • 43
Bliss. At BeAches®. a custom wedding experience
Hometown weddings can accommodate all of your nearest and dearest. Destination weddings are deemed an exotic endeavor. But brides choose Beaches to combine the best of both worlds. Imagine a WeddingMoon© dripping with luxury, and oozing with ambiance. An experience so elevated, it’s what a couples dreams are made of. Now picture a day so customized, a retreat so refined, that even your guests will have the time of their lives. And, when it’s all said and done, they’ll have you to thank for it. That’s just a touch of what you’ll find at any of the three Beaches Resorts. Nestled in Ochos Rios, Turks and Caicos, or along Negril’s famous Seven Mile Beach, there are so many incredible inclusions, they’ve been known to make couples fall in love all over again. We’re proud to pour premium spirits, and offer an endless array of adventure between our water sports and waterparks. We’re pleased to offer the decadence of 5-Star Global GourmetTM dining at up to 20 restaurants and host a supervised kids’ camp for when you just need a little adult time. Simply put, we want your experience to speak for itself. It’s personal for you. It’s priority for us. And that’s paramount. When the day of your dreams is all said and done, you can settle into a honeymoon hideaway right then and there. Or you have the option to take a Honeymoon Hop® to one of our 16 Sandals properties, designed exclusively for two people in love. Now that’s what we call icing on the wedding cake! For information: beaches.com/weddingmoons 1-877-BeAches or call your travel Professional
iBerostAr GrAnd hotel BávAro, PuntA cAnA luxury crystals package
The Dominican Republic sets the perfect scene for a destination wedding: swaying palm trees, sun-kissed beaches and sparkling blue water. IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Bávaro can help to create the wedding of your dreams with their recently introduced wedding package: Luxury Crystals. This package includes everything you need to make your day run smoothly, including a dress steaming, complimentary single room for the groom (one night prior to the wedding), hair trial, flowers for the wedding party and a dedicated on-site wedding coordinator. When it comes to the ceremony and reception, white, silver and crystal will create a romanic setting, featuring roses, calla lillies, crystal vases, chandelier centrepieces, linens, Tiffany chairs and tableware. Choose from delicious menu options for dinner, and opt for a wine tasting. Afterward, champagne, strawberries and flowers will await you in your room, along with a candlelit bubble bath. From the beginning of the day, to the end, the Luxury Crystals package will give you memories to last a lifetime. For information: iberostar.com
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ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA
BE LIvE CARIBBEAN HoTELS
EXCLUSIVE ISLAND SETTINGS
CrEATE UNforGETTAbLE mEmorIES
The “Caribbean Wedding Experience” by Be Live Hotels offers the idyllic setting for a wedding. They take care of every detail, making the entire process impeccable and effortless for the bridal couple. Rest on their experience, commitment, involvement and professionalism to make sure everything is just right. Trust their wedding coordinators to plan every detail from flower bouquets and arrangements, to creating the perfect ambiance. 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.
THE WEDDING PACKAGES They have crafted wedding packages based on the number of people attending, the elegance, the privacy and intimacy. The Private Wedding Dinner Reception is built into all the packages, including the new Cuban Romance Package.
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.
Their basic package, “Caribbean Romance”, could be free of charge if the couple books at least five rooms for a minimum stay of three nights each.
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.
In their intermediate package, “Caribbean Forever Idyll ” enjoy touches of elegance like the rose petal turndown service on the wedding night or the newlywed’s romantic breakfast in bed with mimosas.
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. Please add for more information: visitantiguabarbuda.com
Their most lavish proposal, “Caribbean Dream Deluxe” offers a guaranteed upgrade to the rooms of the bride, groom and both parents to an hour of live Caribbean music trio for one hour during the cocktail reception and, for two hours, an International open bar service after the reception dinner. Caribbean Romance Wedding Package is for 10 people. An extra $20. USD per each additional person. Caribbean Forever Idyll Wedding Package, is for 20 people. An extra $30. USD per each additional person. Caribbean Romance Deluxe Wedding Package, for 30 people. An extra $40. USD per each additional person. For information: signaturevacations.com/Be-Live
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It’s in
THE BAG
WELCOME BAGS ARE A SPECIAL TOUCH FOR YOUR GUESTS. YOU DON’T HAVE TO BREAK THE BANK, BUT LEAVING A PACKAGE OF GOODIES IN EACH GUESTROOM IS THOUGHTFUL AND FUN. HERE ARE A FEW IDEAS.
USB WITH A FUN WEDDING/DESTINATION THEMED PLAYLIST
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PERSONALIZED TUMBLER FOR DRINKS ON THE BEACH
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BOTTLED WATER, SNACKS, GRANOLA BARS AND GUM
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SUNSCREEN, LIP BALM (WITH SPF) AND ALOE
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ITINERARY, MAPS OF THE AREA, SCHEDULE OF RESORT EVENTS
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MINI TOILETRY KIT WITH MOUTHWASH, MAKEUP REMOVER, STAIN REMOVER AND SEWING KIT
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MONOGRAMMED BEACH TOWELS OR SUNGLASSES
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LOCAL RUM, TEQUILA, BAKED GOODS OR CIGARS
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A FAN OR UMBRELLA, TO PREPARE FOR WEATHER CONDITIONS
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SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
PLAYING CARDS OR A TRAVEL GAME
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The Element of Passion.
DESTINATION WEDDING PACKAGES DESIGNED FOR YOU. Beautiful landscapes frame the most awaited moment. Exclusive services, personalized decoration and packages designed by the best professionals. This is Weddings by Palladium. And here, you’ll find your element from romantic venues to all-inclusive accommodations. Where idyllic moments simply come with the territory.
To discover us or book your wedding, visit PalladiumWeddings.com or call 888-442-3127.
MEXICO • DOMINICAN REPUBLIC •
JAMAICA • BRAZIL •
SPAIN 4 color: 45C 40M 25Y
If using as 1 color: PMS 5285