Antigua Mexico Italy Dominican
REAL WEDDINGS
how to
GET HITCHED WITHOUT ANY HITCHES
TODAY’S
WHAT’S ON YOUR
CHECKLIST?
2 Tall Grass Trail, Suite 13 Woodbridge, ON Canada, L4L 3Y9 Tel: 416-399-5859 info@instylevacations.ca www.todaysbride.ca
WHAT GUESTS NEED TO KNOW!
PUBLISHED BY TODAY’S
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA
Rose Hall abounds with history and beauty that can be matched by nowhere in the world. Lush green landscapes, exquisite panoramas, secret waterfalls, beach escapes, historic ruins and majestic great houses – there is a Rose Hall Signature that is perfect for your dream wedding! Our team of expert wedding planners will ensure your day is rooted as deep as the rich and vibrant heritage of this land. You bring the love! We will take care of the rest!
4 6
TRAVEL SAFELY
contents
Take reasonable precautions. EDITOR AND DIRECTOR
JULES-PHOTOGRAPHER.COM, Z MOLU PHOTOGRAPHY
Great advice for a happy wedding and honeymoon.
8
YOUR HAIR
Sun and salt water won’t do your hair any favours.
10 TRAVEL INSURANCE Who pays for what? Why you need to consider it.
12
20
REAL WEDDING
Married in Mexico, surrounded by friends.
14 16
AVOID THOSE HITCHES
Whatever may go wrong, keep a smile on your face.
WANT A DIY WEDDING?
Leave the details to the experts.
18
SHOP LOCALLY
Don’t cart from home. Get more interesting gifts at your destination
20 REAL WEDDING A couple created magic moments in Italy.
22
26
24
Share your travel details with your guests.
26 28
REAL WEDDING
A week-long event with surprises every day. GOING SOUTH – BARELY
A look at the nearly-nude gowns on the fashion runways.
30
BACHELORETTE GETAWAYS
Plan a health and fitness weekend with your friends.
SOMETHING OLD
Acknowledging an age-old custom.
YOUR GUESTS NEED TO KNOW
32
REAL WEDDING
34
ITALY
36
COSTA RICA
38
CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’
39
SCOTLAND
COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEN BONNICI WWW.HERITAGEPARKSTUDIOS.COM
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 3
A classic wedding but fun was foremost.
Get married in Italy, surrounded by the beauty of the country.
Have a glorious wedding in the mountains or on a beach.
The stars aren’t the only reason visitors flock to California.
Rent a car so you can explore the hidden treasures.
safe trip
Have a detailed travel checklist.
GETTING ORGANIZED
• Have a current passport. Many countries will not allow entry if your passport expires within six months of your arrival. If it expires while you are away, good luck in getting back into Canada. Better to be safe than sorry. • Bring your itinerary with you, but also leave a detailed itinerary with family or a friend that includes the address and contact info of the hotel/resort. • Bring the appropriate credit cards. Check in advance to see which credit cards are widely used. • Bring whatever medications you use. You may want to get any prescriptions you may need from your doctor. • Leave all expensive jewellery at home. Just bring attractive faux pieces. • Tie a ribbon or other colourful item to your luggage to make it easy to identify. DURING TRAVEL
MAGICAL MOMENTS
MAKE YOUR MOMENT UNFORGETTABLE. #LOVEANTIGUABARBUDA
facebook.com/antiguabarbuda @antiguabarbuda @antiguaandbarbuda FOR MORE INFORMATION VISITANTIGUABARBUDA.COM
• Stay clear of the booze if you are flying. It dehydrates and often upsets your stomach. • Try to get some sleep so you arrive refreshed if it’s a long flight. • Carry a few snacks in your purse that won’t be available aboard your flight. It’s a good idea to get current travel advice from The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority’s Pack Smart. It also may be prudent to see if Canada has an embassy in that country in the event of an emergency.
EDITOR Bettie Bradley DIRECTOR, DESTINATION WEDDINGS Susan Barone-Cianfarani ART DIRECTOR Susan Rogers ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR 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 RETAIL SALES Michael Swinburne 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
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 4
WHERE THE EXTRAORDINARY HAPPENS
WORLD’S LEADING RESORT 2014
WORLD’S LEADING SPORTS ACADEMY 2014
memos from SUSAN BARONE-CIANFARANI
BETTIE BRADLEY
DIRECTOR
EDITOR
Congratulations! It is my absolute pleasure to be part of your special journey leading up to your destination wedding. Planning a destination wedding is a stress-free and fun experience that will provide memories of a lifetime for everyone. You will find some innovative options and unique destinations, including the Forte Village Resort on the island of Sardegna, Italy, offering some beautiful venue options full of Italian flair. Sandals and Beaches Resorts allow you to showcase your wedding in your style with their team of true wedding professionals. After more than 30 years in the travel and tourism industry and with a strong focus on destination weddings and honeymoons, it has never been more clear to me how quickly destination weddings are growing, developing and including a different type of backdrop to one of the most important events in your life. This magazine represents my passion for unique destination weddings and travel experiences, which add culture and diversity while adding your personal style. Are you planning a destination wedding inspired by the intimacy of a private island or perhaps the history and magic of a medieval village, the romance of a castle or the popular toes-in-the-sand beach wedding? This edition will help you find your style of worldwide destinations and exclusive resorts offering the very best. Enjoy the beautiful and unique real wedding features showcased in this edition, such as the island of Antigua with dramatic locals and luxury exclusive boutique properties like the INN at English Harbour for a wedding full of authentic Caribbean style, or a charming Tuscany wedding with a medieval village touch. I hope they will help you find your inspiration for your wedding style worldwide.
The role of all editors is to bring fresh ideas to the table. The specific role of the editor of Destination Wedding is to kick open doors to options that have not been on your short list. This can begin a conversation with your partner that will challenge and excite you both. How will you handle it if one of you dreams of skiing in the Alps and the other sees this as an invitation to break a leg? What if one of you dreams of discovering the great cities of Europe and the other chokes at the thought of seeing still another famous cathedral? There’s the challenge! And that’s when the conversation gets really interesting. Of course, you want to please yourself. You also want to please your partner. So, it’s never a question of one of you “giving in”. It’s always meeting the challenge of tailoring a holiday that specifically satisfies both of your dreams. Present your favourite destination to each other. Keep an open mind. As you negotiate you will end up having more fun than you ever imagined. Finally, you will arrive at the perfect choice. Making the journey together to your final decision is both exciting and satisfying. And that’s a promise! The answer may be splitting the honeymoon with a few days in one location and a few days in another. How rich that experience can be! So sit together. Turn the pages of Destination Wedding. Put yourself in the picture of each of the possibilities. Pour a glass of wine and dream a little. I hope we will have helped you make your decision. And then, push ahead to phase two: planning the details of your over-the-top, once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon.
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 6
hair,
hair!
You’re about to spend hours in the sun and water. Your hair is crying for help. Hair care becomes a huge factor when travelling. Destination Wedding turned to professional hair and makeup artist Diana Carreiro of P1M, Canada and Seaminx Inc, USA for answers. DW: When you want to untangle
wet hair, which is best – a comb or a brush? DC: The Tangle Teezer is the best brush to use when untangling wet hair. It’s compact and is a perfect fit for an overnight or beach bag.
DW: Thin, straight hair can look
DW: The sun can often change the
DW: Do you suggest a chin-length
colour of hair from golden to brassy. A hat or scarf can give some protection, but it’s not practical if a person is going in and out of saltwater for much of the day. What’s the answer? DC: Before and after taking a dip in a pool or ocean, liberally spray hair with a water resistant product like Aveda’s Sun Care Protective Hair Veil. DW: Long hair can be lovely when
it’s well tended. But on a holiday, it needs a lot of special care. What style would be pretty but last all day? DC: Top knots, low buns and braids are perfect hairstyles that will last all day. And once released, they will give you pretty beachy waves to carry you into the night. DW: Curly hair quickly becomes PUHHHA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
shampoo a couple of times a week to allow natural oils to build up. This will help keep it manageable. To style, apply a silicone serum and then comb through wet hair to evenly distribute the product.
frizzy hair because of humidity. How can it be controlled? DC: Start with the right products in the shower. Use a lightweight moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to ‘fill’ up the the cuticle so it won’t absorb it from the air. Only DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 9
pretty limp. Should it have a layered or blunt cut? DC: A blunt cut is best for thin, straight hair as it will look thicker. Think Naomi Watts. bob or a very short style?
DC: That depends on the wearer’s
face shape and style. A blunt or graduated bob are great options for thin straight hair, as is a pixie cut. DW: We all use UV protection
for our skin. Are there hair products available that have some kind of built-in sun protection? DC: From high end to low end, there are many products on the market especially designed to protect hair from the harmful rays of the sun. Look for shampoos, conditioners and styling products labelled ‘sun care’ or ‘spf ’. DW: Compare the damage when
swimming in a pool with chlorine or swimming in salt water? DC: Chlorine is worse as it’s a chemical disinfectant and salt is natural. Both will dry out hair so protect it as best you can. Hair is porous, especially bleached hair, so prevent hair from absorbing chlorine or salt by wetting hair with fresh water.
insurance
THINK ABOUT Check out ways to protect yourself.
BY CONNIE JESKE CRANE
Wedding concerns can include guests getting food poisoning, suppliers going out of business and much more. Nancy Wells, president of Vancouver-based WEDensure, says destination weddings have some extra concerns. For example, right before your wedding the Canadian government might issue a travel advisory to your destination, or a tropical storm could ground all flights out of town. If couples have purchased insurance, an insurer will cover the non-refundable monies. There are a few options to choose from, including comprehensive wedding insurance to à la carte coverage. WHAT ARE THE À LA CARTE OPTIONS?
Selecting specific products can be a good route for destination weddings as they tend to be on the simple side, says Liz Moore, the CEO of Liz Moore Destination Weddings in Kelowna, BC. “The cost of a destination wedding is about one-third the cost of a regular wedding because destination resorts generally have in-house people performing services like photography and décor. And couples don’t need to place large deposits upfront, so it’s much less of a loss if they have to cancel compared to an at-home wedding.” The biggest expense is travel, so couples – and their guests – can elect to simply purchase the same kind of coverage they’d purchase with any vacation: medical, trip cancellation and trip interruption. Possible extras could include extra dental coverage and/or baggage insurance. HOW DOES IT WORK?
Liz says that cancellation insurance reimburses costs if travel is cancelled for medical reasons. There is also the rare case where a wedding is cancelled due to ‘a change of heart’. Companies usually offer 50 percent cancellation for any reason , giving couples 50 percent of their package back. (Talk to your insurer about specific cancellation policies and timelines.) Liz says trip interruption coverage is important because it covers unexpected costs if there’s any sort of airline delay, such as for hotels if they can’t fly out overnight. Nancy Wells says that in addition, venues may ask couples to purchase commercial general liability or event insurance.
WHO PAYS FOR WHAT?
Liz says a destination wedding is like a group vacation. When it comes to travel and medical insurance, everybody pays for their own. WHAT DOES COMPREHENSIVE WEDDING INSURANCE INCLUDE?
Nancy says her company’s wedding insurance includes general liability plus wedding cancellation or postponement expenses, failure of suppliers, damage to wedding attire and rings, loss or damage of wedding stationery, cake and flowers, and reimbursement of any pre-paid non-recoverable costs of honeymoon travel related to the cancellation or postponement of a wedding. HOW MUCH DOES INSURANCE COST?
For trip medical and cancellation insurance, the cost normally runs between $120 and $160 per person, with some variation depending on factors like length of stay and type of accommodation. For comprehensive coverage, Nancy says her company’s pricing is linked to the overall cost of the wedding. The minimum cost is $300 for $10,000 of coverage (including general liability and host liquor liability of one million dollars), with each hundred dollar increment adding another $5,000 of coverage. “So $400 would cover a $15,000 wedding, and so on.” It’s also good to weigh insurance costs alongside your overall wedding costs. Think about how much you’re investing in your wedding and how much the extra piece of mind is worth to you. Nancy sees insurance becoming increasingly important because people are spending so much money today on their weddings and need to protect their investment. WHAT ABOUT TIMING?
If you want insurance, timing is crucial. Obtain it when you start putting deposits down on any wedding purchases.
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 10
MSSA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
WHAT INSURANCE OPTIONS ARE THERE?
REAL DESTINATION WEDDINGS • MEXICO
Tania Marie Joseph AND
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 12
PHOTOGRAPHY: RICHARD EMMANUEL, SITE: PARADISUS PLAYA DEL CARMEN LA ESMERALDA, GABI BRIDGE AND CYPRESS BALLROOM
Tania Marie Sibonney and Joseph Amar chose to be married in Mexico and 110 family and friends chose to accompany them. Everyone had a marvellous time! Their love affair began in 2006. Nearly seven years later they were having a holiday in Miami when, after visiting a spa, rose petals were strewn, champagne was opened and, with a Tacori box in hand, Joseph proposed. Then they worked together to plan their wedding, with surprises for their guests that included lively entertainment. Gifts for their guests were white embroidered beach towels, a wedding magazine, beach bag and personalized playing cards. The Chuppah was extraordinary, with orchid strands, roses and hydrangeas. However, the couple say that their favourite moment was walking into the reception as husband and wife and seeing all their family and friends who had made such an effort to travel from around the world to celebrate their wedding. They said, “It was a truly emotional and humbling moment.” The bride received a special gift: A custom made gold and pearl five-row cuff with crystal accents designed by Tania Marie’s mother and father. The couple enthusiastically recommends a destination wedding; the energy filled the entire week, heightened by everyone’s joy and excitement. However, they offer this advice: “Don’t get involved with making travel arrangements for your guests. Dealing with booking flights and hotels is stressful and best handled by each individual.” Their wedding was beyond their expectations and filled with so many special memories and moments they will never forget.
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 13
avoid hitches Keep a smile on your face.
WHEN GETTING HITCHED
AVOID DISAPPOINTMENTS
If you are planning a destination wedding, pay special attention to whether the hotel or resort is providing: • an indoor option for the service and reception in case of rain • suitable accommodation at various prices for all of your guests • additional menu options for the reception and the cost • all extra costs submitted upfront. Even if you are choosing an all-inclusive resort, extra costs can attach to a wedding. This makes sense because all-inclusive can’t be expected to cover any services that require hiring extra staff or special food, such as a wedding cake. You likely can choose a special wedding plan provided by the resort that may include some extras at no charge. Large resorts often have several options, at different prices, so you can match your needs to the package that fits your taste and your budget. You should review the plan with the resort’s wedding planner so there are no misunderstandings and no surprises when the bill arrives.
Inquire about any regulations that may not match your expectations. Perhaps you plan on an all-night party with music ramped up, wine and liquor flowing and lots of dancing and fun. The hotel or resort, however, has to balance what you expect with how it affects their other guests. Be prepared to accept a fairly early closing-up time. ACCEPT MISHAPS GRACEFULLY
So the flowers weren’t what you ordered. Or one of the appetizers didn’t get served. Or the sudden deluge of rain meant cancelling the romantic beach wedding as everything was moved indoors. The secret in handling these disappointments is to realize that they don’t matter! Bridal couples who make an issue of complaining if something is disappointing not only dilute their own happy experience but embarrass their guests. Enjoy the moment. Savour the true meaning of the day. Keep a smile on your face and treasure the memories.
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 14
BRESLAVTSEV OLEG/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
Something is bound to go wrong. whether you have an at-home wedding or a destination wedding. There are so many details in wedding planning that one or two items will escape scrutiny. Here are two thoughts that are guaranteed to maintain your sanity: • be aware of what often goes wrong and double-check those items • don’t display disappointment when something does go awry.
PLANNING A
wedding?
You may want to think again. BY KIMBERLY LEUNG
All of this is especially true if you book your wedding at a resort that specializes in destination nuptials. It can all be surprisingly affordable.
“A destination wedding site may offer couples a complimentary package, such as a partially paid-for trip or other price reductions, depending on the size of the party,” says Melitta Hannon, a travel advisor at Vision Travel. “Resorts with on-site wedding planning staff are perfect for busy couples because these experienced professionals can handle events as simple or elaborate as the couple has envisioned.” With exclusive offers and optional add-ons, even services like photography, makeup and music can be easily arranged. The experts will plan the rehearsal dinner, as well as special extras like a welcome reception with drinks, a fire show or a snorkel excursion while coordinating everything from table linens to decorations with you. Having a destination wedding doesn’t mean you have to give up on the details – only the headaches. A final note: If you are an experienced crafter and plan to prepare a few DIY details, remember that restrictions at customs and additional baggage costs translate to limited flexibility in any handcrafted items you do choose to bring. Flat and compact items like programs or place cards are the easiest to transport. Think twice about bringing anything heavy or that contains liquids. So use the professional help available and add on whatever won’t add to your stress. Having your special event at a beautiful location will be the real icing on the (wedding) cake!
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 16
DRAGONPHOTOS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
A do-it-yourself wedding sounds like fun. You may think that this is the only way you will get exactly what you want. However, it can be a challenge that ends in stress. A recent bride, Amanda Lazaro, says, “For us, it was all about planning a destination wedding that would be an amazing vacation for 80 of our closest family and friends. Thank goodness, we finally made a decision to accept some professional help.” The on-site wedding planners at her hotel helped bring Amanda’s vision to life. She gave up the idea of making her own decor and guest gifts, thereby avoiding having to transport DIY crafts across international borders. It may seem exciting as you browse Pinterest and find hundreds of home-made projects. You may even experiment with making one, but then imagine having to push ahead and make, say, 80! You may also expect to rely on volunteers but, frankly, your friends have a life! Often your main motivation in DIY is to save money. You may not like crafting, but you do know the value of a dollar. When big dreams meet up with a small budget, it might be tempting to think you can recreate a designer look on your own. Surprise! You almost always save money by buying crafts as gifts after you arrive at your destination. Don’t forget to get some local colour in items you buy for yourself. You want to be calm and relaxed at your wedding. The last thing you should be thinking about are matching fabric swatches and fancy fonts! So outsource what you can. Rely on a wedding planner to pre-select some items for you, so the number of choices you have to make upon arrival are less overwhelming.
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 5- Star Global Gourmet™ 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/todaysbridefallwinter2016bch or call 1-800-BEACHES for important terms and conditions.
*
shop locally
Don’t buy thank-you gifts for your guests at home. Buy them after you arrive at your destination. A small gift that connects with the locale has much more meaning than a trinket from home. Here are a few examples. BARBADOS
TURKS & CAICOS
Check out the blue and green serving pieces from Earthworks Pottery. In fact, look at all pottery because potters in Barbados have practiced their skills for hundreds of years. A small bowl or plate in clay pottery in brilliant colours and designs would be a treasure for your guests to take home.
Oil and watercolours are the two most widely used techniques of the Turks & Caicos artist. You can look for small prints – they make lovely table decorations at your reception as well as a take-home gift for your guests. The art of basket weaving, plaiting palm leaves for straw hats, net making and weaving fanner dishes and bowls is very much alive.
Popular tea towels are sold at the Irish Linen Shop. The patterns include Bermuda flowers, Bermuda birds and Bermuda cottages. (Recipients often frame the towels.) Many local artists create watercolour images on various themes, particularly harbour scenes and landscapes unique to the island. In Bermuda, you will find great collections of small, inexpensive paintings, photographs, pictures and drawings, as well as pottery and small sculptures. BAHAMAS
Some visitors take home freshly harvested sponges, wood carvings of miniature racing sloops or other distinctive collectibles created by local artisans. But the island’s signature product is Androsia – a colourful, locally made batik. (These fabric designs are created by applying wax to the parts to be left undyed.) The results can be an explosion of brilliant colours. You might want this for yourself! In the search for much less expensive guest gifts, check out the straw vendors in the open-air markets as well as Bahamian handicrafts, conch shell jewellery and Junkanoo art prints.
CUBA
The crafts of Cuba represent both the African and Spanish influences with wooden carved figurines, masks and fine ceramics. (Don’t overlook the finest cigars!) Seashells are used creatively. The necklace pictured is made from locally-grown spices and nuts. MEXICO
Handicrafts are produced according to the region and the available raw materials. The prime materials are clay, wrought iron, metal, wood, ceramics, talavera pottery, glass, thread, woven palm, wax and leather. Complex patterned rugs from looms in Teotitlan, Oaxaca, unique pottery pieces from Quiroga, Michoacan, and the world-renowned Talavera ceramics from Puebla are just a sample of the wide variety of the artisan crafts that Mexico offers. No matter where you plan to have your destination wedding, take advantage of the locally-made products that will charm your guests.
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 18
ANNA OK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
BERMUDA
Together
Forever Begins at Royalton Luxury Resorts Royalton White Sands, Montego Bay, Jamaica Royalton Negril, Jamaica - opening early 2017 Royalton Blue Waters, Montego Bay, Jamaica - opening November 2016 Royalton Punta Cana Resort & Casino, Dominican Republic Royalton Riviera Cancun, Mexico Royalton Saint Lucia, Saint Lucia - opening early 2017 Hideaway at Royalton Riviera Cancun, Mexico Hideaway at Royalton Negril, Jamaica - opening early 2017 Hideaway at Royalton Saint Lucia, Saint Lucia - opening early 2017 CHIC Punta Cana by Royalton, Dominican Republic
With unforgettable luxury on some of the best Caribbean beaches, newlyweds and guests will bask in the entire destination wedding experience at Royalton Luxury Resorts. With Sunwing’s destination expertise and Royalton’s team of professional wedding planners at your side, every dreamy detail will be taken care of so you can focus on what matters — each other.
All-In Luxury
Exclusive DreamBed™
®
for Destination Weddings
Modern All-In Connectivity™
Unlimited Reservation-Free Dining Book your vacation with Sunwing.ca and enjoy: Award-winning Champagne Service Exclusive extras On-site hospitality
To learn more about destination weddings at Royalton Luxury Resorts visit www.sunwing.ca
REAL DESTINATION WEDDINGS • ITALY
Jaisy
Daniel
AND
PHOTOGRAPHY: JULES-PHOTOGRAPHER.COM, SITE: BORGO IL POGGIACCIO
Jaisy Yang and Daniel Frome, along with 25 family and friends, went to Siena, Italy to be married. Jaisy, now a family physician, and Daniel, a video editor, met at a photoshoot on a Toronto beach. They happened to hop the same streetcar to go home and now say the ride was too short! Nevertheless, over the following days, they emailed and talked on the phone until, finally, Daniel asked Jaisy on their first official date. Two years later, Daniel asked Jaisy’s father for permission to ask his daughter to marry him. Then he proposed and she said, “Yes”. At the evening wedding ceremony and reception in Italy, Jaisy wore the traditonal white gown. However, on the morning of the wedding day, she wore a red dress (and Daniel a red tie) to honour a cultural tradition – the Chinese tea ceremony. Red is the Chinese colour of happiness and good luck. At the tea ceremony, couples presented tea to senior members of the family, symbolizing stability, happiness, purity and fertility. The couple say that their entire day was “pure magic”. They even found a few hours to steal away with their photographer, who took them to the lovely Tuscany countryside, where they were in the fields at sunset, knee deep in long grasses, surrounded by winding Tuscan roads with small stone houses, a vineyard full of red autumn grapes, huge bales of hay and towering cypress trees. They were building memories for a lifetime.
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 21
some ing old..
something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence in your shoe.
SOMETHING OLD
SOMETHING NEW
SOMETHING BORROWED
SOMETHING BLUE
Something old is about your past. Consider wearing something that belongs to your grandmother or mother, because this is a sentimental line that urges you to stay connected with your past. It may be a piece of jewellery, such as earrings or a charm bracelet, or a clutch. Perhaps your mother has kept her veil from her own wedding.
Something new introduces you to your future and offers good luck. It is less about sentiment and more about being optimistic as you commit to your new life. Finding something new is easy, because almost everything will be new, starting with your gown.
Something borrowed indicates that you will embrace happiness where you find it. You will be surrounded by others who are happy and will repeat, or borrow, that happiness. What does your best friend have that you can borrow? Or borrow something from your mother-in-law. This is a lovely way to acknowledge her. You might consider borrowing something that can be added to your bouquet, such as a brooch.
Blue has always been the colour of purity and fidelity. There is no shortage of ideas that you can use as your something blue. Some brides like to showcase the colour and add a blue ribbon to their headdress or tie a blue ribbon around their bouquet. Others hide the blue and wear a blue garter (which may be revealed before the reception is over). How about wearing blue shoes? What a pretty addition to your overall ensemble.
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 22
PANDORABOX, PAUL CULLEN PHOTOGRAPHY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
Hang on to some of the old traditions. They add to the fun and romance of getting married – especially if you are planning a destination wedding. Getting married abroad is a new experience, so connecting with the past brings an important sentimental element to the experience. The old rhyme about “something old...” is a standard at most weddings today, but it dates back to an Old English rhyme, and it is sometimes forgotten that the entire verse ends with “and a sixpence in your shoe”. In all, each line represents some version of good luck.
LOVE STORIES begin here THE ULTIMATE WEDDING AWAITS YOU
Hyatt Zilara™ and Hyatt Ziva™ offer incredible wedding venues at distinctive properties in the world’s most celebrated beachfront locations such as Cancun, Los Cabos, Montego Bay, and Puerto Vallarta. We’ve created a variety of wedding packages, or you can customize nearly every detail for your dream wedding – right down to your own signature drink.
2-NIGHT STAY FOR TWO FOR ONLY $500
$
500 CREDIT WHEN YOU BOOK YOUR WEDDING
IT’S LIKE GETTING YOUR BIG DAY PREVIEW FOR FREE!
For Just The Two Of You
Free wedding for two complimentary for the wedding couple (with a minimum 6-night stay)
Intimate Elegance
Free wedding for the couple plus up to 10 guests (with 15 room nights booked)
CALL OUR WEDDING CENTER 888.963.7643
PLAYARESORTS.COM CANCUN • LOS CABOS • MONTEGO BAY • PUERTO VALLARTA
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, 2016. Oceanview room categories for both free wedding packages required. For Just the Two of You package is complimentary with purchase of a minimum of 6-night stay and requires purchase of upper category. Intimate Elegance package is complimentary with a minimum of 15 room nights in upper category, or purchased for $999. Holidays or other blackout dates may apply. Additional terms and conditions may apply, see our website for full details. The Hyatt Ziva™ and Hyatt Zilara™ trademarks and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt International Corporation. ©2016 Hyatt International Corporation. ©2016 Playa Resorts Management is the exlusive operator of Hyatt Zilara™ and Hyatt Ziva™ resorts. All rights reserved. PLA06530216
ALL
INCLUSIVE
RESORTS
guests
WANT TO KNOW...
d for cash! e p p a r t s e r ’ y e h t concerned, e r ’ y owever, e h t , d e it n wedding. H c x io e at n e ti r ’ es y d r e u yo Th by your side at
ust be that you feel m g the cost. ily m wn holiday. fa d an s d ose for their o ngland! estionin o u q ch e b ld u You have frien ay o m w s s d d to E frien same frien some of your holiday may be a 10-day trip ce la p some of those a e b t o may n ference for a eginning! your location u. So that’s a b rt and their pre so yo h re it Be aware that n w er e th b u to ing to a so ard wanting You may be go push them tow ill w u yo r fo ion their love elpful informat h ch Nevertheless, u m as g n Pass alo
cerns; n o c ir e h t f o e ar . Basepoasswible to make their decision easier the destination so you can get quick and plannilietiresat. e h t h it w t c e Conn s about costs and possib as
er andings accurate answ no misunderst d an y it ar cl is ere ferencing so th Use video con
ation. m r fo in t c flights that e ll o you c There may be . s n io t p fare ove. Some of your guests will opt for ir a f o y t ie r a v heckveonuientt abut they also may be less. expensi C are less con t for savings d some will op nt you an u ce o n ie c n is ve n d t co a h w ookings, see
g the re If you are givin
ultiple b sort or hotel m ur guests. on behalf of yo
ic rooms. can negotiate ry suites to bas xu lu m o fr s ptiontss. and price o m o o r ts es gu r u Give yo of your gues pful for all
ay at a nearby, resort, but to st meals. ve si u cl in lal e wn to not stay at th of cooking some of their o n o ti p o e th have inn where they festivities at your resort. e less-expensive th r fo en join you They could th osting that you are h
This will be hel
e may ele m o S
ct
events e h t t u o b a r a Be cle to them.
ption. cost d wedding rece efore an so there is no g in d ed w e th day b urse, include luncheon the e m co el w a That will, of co g may be may be plannin day after the wedding. You However, you e th or a breakfast e other activity. your wedding m excursion or so hosting a boat ion along. at Pass this inform
Be understanding if a guest must take a pass on attending your wedding. Promise to send them pictures and, when you come home, have lunch with them and share all of your stories. DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 24
GHENADIE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
DISCOVER ETERNAL LOVE
Our commitment is to turn your dreams into unforgettable loving memories. Welcome to the most captivating Caribbean Destination Wedding Experience by BE LIVE HOTELS which we refer to as:
“Creative thinking, Unforgettable
memories”
Within this new initiative, all of our elegant and exclusive areas of the hotel are yours to decide where you would like to have your WEDDING RECEPTION DINNER as PRIVATE and INCLUDED in ALL our Caribbean Wedding Packages, without any additional cost*. Our team of professionals will be dedicated entirely to satisfy your needs in the aims of offering you and your guests a personalized service in an intimate ambiance.
COMPLIMENTARY WEDDING PACKAGE*
FREE HONEYMOON PACKAGE*
FREE VOW RENEWAL PACKAGE* *Terms and conditions apply.
Dominican Republic
Punta Cana Be Live Collection Punta Cana*****
Puerto Plata Be Live Collection Marien*****
Bayahibe Be Live Collection Canoa*****
Boca Chica Be Live Experience Hamaca****
CUBA Coming soon.....
belivehotels.com
REAL DESTINATION WEDDINGS • DOMINICAN REPUBLIC •
Shafeena Vishal AND
After Shafeena Premji and Vishal Dodiya met, they spent the next year and a half flying back and forth between London, Kingston and Calgary. Finally, Vishal, after obtaining permssions from Shafeena’s parents, proposed when she was visiting him in London. The ring was carefully chosen because Shafeena is a doctor and didn’t want a ring that would interfere with her work. In planning their wedding, they wanted to observe both of their backgrounds. Vishal is Hindu Gujarati and Shafeena is Ismaili Muslim. Happily, both of their parents come from East Africa, so many of the traditions were the same. Nevertheless, they had two separate wedding ceremonies to acknowledge both cultures. The first celebration was a Muslim wedding and two months later they had a full Indian and Hindu ceremony in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, where they were joined by 137 guests. The seven-day event began with dance and music. The next day they played traditional music, the third day was a joint pithi ceremony and the fourth day, the Hindu wedding ceremony. The following day was the second wedding ceremony and on the final day was a white party.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Z MOLU PHOTOGRAPHY , VIDEOGRAPHER: ESCAPE STUDIOS
Guests all received a personalized Indian “take care” basket with a welcome letter, dandia sticks, chewing gum, tylenol, hand sanitizer, photo-cubes and a henna party invitation.
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 27
barely
GOING SOUTH –
The introduction of the nude dress has its eye on the beach wedding.
We need to remember, however, that the purpose of the major fashion shows in the fashion capitals is to push the envelope. What they introduce on their runways is not often seen on the store racks – at least not without major refinements and alterations. NUDE STYLE OPTIONS
The styles play with traditional bridal designs but then push it to the next level by exposing varying parts of the body. A gown may have a very short sequined skirt that barely covers the thighs, with a floor-length overskirt in sheer that teases the viewer. Another version may have a strapless top, also in sheer, with beading used to strategically cover what must be covered. Still another may have a deep vee that slashes to the waist or below on both front and back. Not all designs depend on the see-through use of sheer fabric. One designer had a long skirt, in silk, with two thighhigh slits that displayed the legs only when walking or sitting. A model in New York strutted her stuff in a sleeveless, mermaid-tail dress that was completely transparent and revealed her black underwear. The black underwear pushed the nude dress one step further. Nude dresses may not always be as bold as they seem at first glance because it is not always the bare skin that we are seeing! Some brides may elect to wear them with nudecoloured lingerie that gives the illusion of being bare. Many of today’s brides, however, will still choose to make their statement with a mile-long train, elaborate skirt, and tiara or flowers in their hair. It’s the ballgown they have dreamed of since they were little girls.
The nude dress was introduced at the major fashion shows in New York and Paris last fall and touted as the big look for 2016. Only a handful of designers are including them in their lines, such as Ines Di Santo (shown above), Israeli designer Inbal Dror, Zuhaire Murad (at Kleinfeld’s), Pronovias and Alessandra Rinaudo for Nicole Spose. These are see-through dresses that leave little to the imagination – and will not be the choice for a traditional church wedding. Nor are they for the faint-of-heart, but the bride who loves to shock or surprise will be in her element.
A bride who would not consider a nude gown if she were being married at home in a traditional wedding may have second thoughts if she is being married at a sunny resort. She will, feel comfortable on the beach in her bikini, so it’s hardly a stretch to feel just as comfortable in a nude gown. Somehow, it doesn’t seem so outrageous on a beach on a sunny day! The effect can be very pretty because the sheer skirt, with even the slightest breeze, will have lovely movement. Bare feet are perfect so the entire body seems to be nude. So let’s see if the nude gown has legs when it comes to sales!
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 28
RAY SANTANA PHOTOGRAPHY
A DESTINATION WEDDING
GISELLA PERRI PHOTOGRAPHY, DAVE COX PICTURES
To book your wedding or honeymoon at The Inn at English Harbour contact a travel specialist at InStyle Vacations and InStyle Destination Weddings at info@instylevacations.ca, 905-850-7895, 1-855-243-0875 (toll-free). theinnantigua.com/en/ InStyle V Logo Color Guide
InStyle DW Logo Color Guide
getaway
BACHELORETTE
Why not try a bachelorette health and wellness getaway? This is a new trending trip that challenges you to push your fitness level. It is one of the fastest growing types of travel and is something special to share with your bridal party. Experience a girlfriend getaway that will provide health and wellness to your bachelorette trip – all while living in the lap of luxury at the Four Seasons Westlake Village. The Ranch 4.0 is a program with a differences; it is a four-day, all-inclusive health and fitness retreat intended to jump-start your fitness routine, healthy lifestyle and metabolism. It is designed to encompass one of California’s most beautiful backdrops, the Santa Monica Mountains. You will have daily hikes, and just when you think you can’t take another step, you somehow find the strength to continue. Why limit yourselves to one night of celebrating with a single spa day when you can escape for a long weekend? The Ranch 4.0 has a defined focus which is rewarded with endurance, strength and empowerment while building spiritual awareness
BY SUSAN BARONE-CIANFARANI
and confidence through their total mind and body program. It also provides a special bonding experience, including a sense of self empowerment gained through the intense hikes, yoga, stretching and more. Daily massages, Bod Pod and V02 tests are included. Rick, Matt, Peter, Angela and the entire Ranch 4.0 team will support you. ACCOMODATION: Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village will be your home during your program. The acres of gardens, along with a beautifully appointed deluxe room that has distant views of the Santa Monica mountains, help you to reboot and rejuve. Guests also have access to the award-winning spa. MEALS: Chef Meredith was trained at Le Cordon Bleu and has
developed carefully prepared vegetarian meals. Her dishes are not only innovative, but are made with garden-grown organic food. She provides a cooking demonstration, showing guests how to prepare their favourite dishes and also provides recipes to take home. This special women’s getaway provides support and information to help you and your friends savour the experience and then continue the healthy habits and nutritional eating when you return home.
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 30
ONLY CREST D WHITE LETS YOU RSVP WITH A GORGEOUS SMILE
Get professional results, fast. Crest 3D White Professional Effects Whitestrips whiten as well as a $500 treatment.* *vs. lights/laser
life opens up with a whiter life opens up with a whiter smilesmile
®
www.3DWhite.com/en-CA © Procter & Gamble, Inc., 2016 ORAL-19714
Crest_DWM_F16.indd 31
6/14/16 1:29 PM
REAL DESTINATION WEDDINGS • ANTIGUA
Christina Giani AND
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 32
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NIKKIMILLS.CA, WEDDING PLANNING BY SUSAN BARONE-CIANFARANI, INSTYLE DESTINATION WEDDINGS
Christina Grespan and Giani Sanataria wanted a somewhat formal wedding but in a tropical location. “I guess it could be described as a classic wedding with a fun, laid-back twist,” says Giani. Their choice was Antigua. They chose a boutique resort that met all their expectations: The Inn at English Harbour. It was charming, with beautiful stone and wood details. They complemented the site with their décor in a colour theme of pink, gold and nude. Christina’s dress was exactly what she wanted. She tried on only five gowns and immediately selected the one in lace, with an open back and interesting belt. She fell in love with a pair of shoes, but they were very expensive. She decided to be sensible and said, “No”. However, her friends surprised her on her 30th birthday by pooling their money and buying them for her! Christina remembers the most emotional moment at the service. She says, “I walked down the aisle and we were suddenly face to face. It was an incredible moment.” Sixty friends came with them to Antigua. Her grandparents couldn’t join them, so the bride had lockets that held the grandparents’ pictures tucked into her bouquet. Instead of ordering specific flowers, the florist was told to choose what was currently in bloom. When they arrived, Christina was speechless – they were stunning. Immediately after the ceremony, Christina and Giani went down the dock, to be together for a few moments and enjoy the romantic setting.
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 33
italy
EXPLORE
Italy is a country that pulls visitors back time and time again. If you are a first-time visitor, the three major cities you may want to consider visiting are Rome, Venice and Florence. Each has a distinct flavour and, in culture and lifestyle, are world’s apart. The reason that each part of Italy is unique is because they were all, until recently, independent states. They only united to become a country in 1861, just six years before Canada was born. EAT AND DRINK WELL
GETTING MARRIED
If you want to get married in Italy, its law requires each non-Italian to present a “Nulla Osta” (Certificate of non-Impediment) or equivalent documentation. Its purpose is to ensure that there is no impediment to the proposed marriage. You also need proof of Canadian Citizenship. There are many ways to get your first taste of Italy, but one of the best is to rent a car and drive up the coast – perhaps starting from Rome, including Florence, ending in Venice and flying home from Milan. DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 34
OSTAP DAVYDIAK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
The one characteristic that is part of Italy’s universe is their love of food. This is serious business, whether it is home cooking or restaurant food. And their drinking is just as specific to each area. In Rome, pause for grappa, a liquor made from fermented peels, seeds and stems of grapes. Then put on your walking shoes. Start with experiencing the magnificence of the Vatican. And don’t miss the ruins of the Colosseum, one of the world’s most recognizable monuments. In Florence, great food and excellent wine are guaranteed. Just walk down any street and select a trattoria, enoteca or restaurant that seems appealing and you’ll eat well. Or how about gelaterias? There are so many that surely there are ones that offer better gelato than others? Trying them out is the fun part, so enjoy! In Venice, you won’t want to miss the Bellinis at Harry’s Bar, one of those places that everyone needs to visit at least once. Sit outdoors in Piazza San Marco, considered one of the finest squares in the world, and where everyone goes to see and be seen. In Milan you will stop at a standup bar for a quick campari and then go shopping. Milan is one of the three top cities in the world for fashion. It also has the world’s most famous opera house, La Scala.
ALL YO U HAVE TO DO I S
S AY “I DO” AT OA S I S
Oasis offers wedding packages that are a perfect celebration of your love Select from six different packages including: O Saptapadi, featuring the timeless traditions of a Hindu marriage; O Mayan, a harmonious
VISIT US AT www.O-WEDDINGS.COM OR CONTACT OUR GROUP DEPARTMENT AT 1-800-446-2747 Ext.815
cultural ceremony; or O Eternity, a classic traditional style wedding. Oasis also offers an amazing complimentary O Remember package (free with required room nights). Our pre-designed themes are a great way to start planning your wedding and our a la carte options let you add any extras you want.
L I V E , LOV E & R E M E M BER THE PYRAMID, LUXURY AT GRAND OASIS | GRAND OASIS CANCUN | GRAND OASIS SENS | GRAND OASIS TULUM
costa rica
BY SUSAN BARONE-CIANFARANI
The Costa Rican phrase “Pura Vida” (pure life) represents a way of living as well as an acknowledgement of the incredible natural beauty that includes rainforests, volcanoes and tropical beaches. Imagine having your wedding ceremony with the mountains of Costa Rica as your backdrop. Or perhaps being married at sunset on a never ending beach? Your wedding decor starts with exotic flowers that are grown locally. (This also makes your decor more cost effective!) The friendly people will welcome you and then provide the personal service that will meet all your demands. Their eagerness to please will have you and your guests feeling like VIPs which, of course, you are! Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a large affair, there are many first class hotels ready to host your wedding with the charm and romance you have dreamed of. All-inclusive resorts like the RIU Palace and the Dreams Resort are a full-service and worry-free way to go. If it’s luxury you want, say no more, because Four Seasons Resort is the place to be. There are so many outings to choose from, but consider zip-lining through the rainforest for an amazing adventure experience. Then, try horseback riding on the beach. Finally, relax in the mud baths and sulphur springs surrounded by nature’s beauty and the Arenal Volcano. Getting married in Costa Rica is easy and requires little paperwork. Civil marriages legally conducted in Costa Rica are valid worldwide, although it can take up to three months for your marriage certificate to be issued, then translated and then sent to you. The Costa Rica experience will definitely be remembered by you and your guests. Always.
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 36
RICHARD EMMANUEL PHOTOGRAPHY AND CINEMATOGRAPHY
PURA VIDA IN
california
DREAMIN’ BY SUSAN BARONE-CIANFARANI
CITY OF ANGELS
BOHO CHIC BEACH
The stars shine bright in Los Angeles, but stars are not the only reason people visit LA. The weather, the beauty, the energy of the people, the shopping and the food all spell “welcome”. Consider Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills – ideal for a destination wedding because of its elegance, glitz and glamour. Wedding couples may choose to have a private wedding ceremony in the garden which can be decorated to reflect their personal style. The bride and her attendants will certainly enjoy the DNA Facial created by leading Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon, Dr. May. Luca, the assistant general manager and sommelier at Culina Restaurant, makes himself available to guests so he can accommodate any requests they may have. Culina restaurant also holds an incredible Sunday brunch. Reserve in advance to avoid disappointment. Your friendly concierge team, Michael and Jessica, are knowledgable, so rely on them when you are planning on exploring the city or looking for specific recommendations.
Santa Monica is known for its beautiful beaches and boardwalks, and hosts thousands of weddings each year. Santa Monica beach weddings are allowed on the beach and within the Palisades Park. Space is confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis and you should have fewer than 150 guests. One of the most beautiful restaurants is The Lobster, where Khloe Kardashian held her rehearsal dinner. Viceroy Hotel in Santa Monica is known for its stylish interiors, modern accommodations and superior amenities. Their luxury suites are custom-designed for business efficiency and restful ease. Each room combines a cosmopolitan approach and coastal atmosphere. The modern glamour and distinct style of the venues offered will give your wedding day a unique backdrop. MOUNTAIN SPLENDOUR
Imagine a majestic wedding with the California mountains as your backdrop. The Four Seasons Westlake Village combines a luxury hotel and idyllic setting, including landscaped gardens and an open-air ceremony beside the Chinese Pagoda or the Waterfall Lawn for your wedding ceremony. Your guests will be spoiled in their oversized rooms with views of the Santa Monica Mountains. An awarding-winning spa will provide professional services for hair and makeup as well as relaxation time for your guests. ONYX restaurant, serving up Chef Masa Shimakawa’s Japanese-influenced seafood creations, provides a wonderful dining option.
WHAT TO DO
Visit the Original Farmers Market – its history dates back to 1934. The market provides some of the best food in Los Angeles. Or visit Buca di Beppo, an Italian Restaurant with a spectacular rooftop bar serving up some of the best food and drinks in the city.
Your stay in California wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Warner Bros. Studio. The deluxe tour, which is only available Monday to Friday, includes lunch in the commissary fine dining room where producers, actors, writers and studio executives meet to discuss their latest projects. Knowledgeable guides lead the tours of this iconic 110-acre lot and share behind-the-scene secrets as you learn about post production and visit the prop department.
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 38
A self-drive tour is a great way to experience Scotland. It gives you the freedom and the flexibility to explore and find hidden treasures. You will certainly want to explore the two major cities, Glasgow and Edinburgh. GLASGOW
This is Scotland’s largest city and there’s lots to see. Stop at Glasgow Tower. It can rotate 360 degrees and is the tallest tower on Earth with this ability. Take the elevator ride (and your camera) to its viewing platform to see the Glasgow skyline. You’ll immediately notice the Victorian and art nouveau architecture. Glasgow is a national cultural hub, home to the Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet and National Theatre of Scotland, along with many acclaimed museums and a thriving music scene. This city is known for its great shopping. Buchanan Street, Sauchiehall Steet and the Buchanan Galleries in the city centre offer all the well-known brands. For boutiques and smaller independent outlets, head for Byres Road in the heart of the West End. A night out at the pubs, bars and clubs is an absolute must-do. Start at the city centre if you’re looking for a wild time that goes well into the wee hours of the morning. Or head to a trendier boutique just off Sauchiehall Street.
EDINBURGH
Hilly Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, has a medieval Old Town and an elegant Georgian New Town, with gardens and neoclassical buildings. It is one of the world’s most visually stunning cities, with a rich literary and philosophical history. It is perfectly described by the author,Alexander McCall Smith, as “A city so beautiful it breaks the heart again and again.” Edinburgh Castle is not to be missed. It is an historic fortress that dominates the skyline of the city from its position high on the Castle Rock. (Book your tickets online and beat the lineups.) GETTING MARRIED IN SCOTLAND
There are no residency requirements or pre-requisites to fulfill other than being at the registrar’s office the day before to check in. It is relatively easy to get legally married in Scotland. You will need the following: • Two marriage notice forms or M-10 forms. (One for each of you.) • Birth certificates. They must be original. • Certificate of no impediment. It proves that you are free to marry. • Valid passports to prove your nationality. • Declaration of immigration status must be completed by anyone who is not British, Swiss or an EEA national.
scotland
FOTOGENIC OF SCOTLAND
SAVOUR
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 39
BARBADOS A PERFECT SETTING
PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHAEL SAAB
VISIT ROSEHALL GREAT HOUSE
Say “I do” in a magical place! Rose Hall Great House is the grandest and most famous great house in Jamaica. Beautifully restored to its 18th Century magnificence it is recognized as being one of the most exclusive wedding venues in the island. If you are looking for a wedding site with a great history as well as extraordinary charm, the Rose Hall Great House will not disappoint! It is certain to deliver memories of a lifetime for you as well as your guests. Perched on a small hill with the alluring blues of the Caribbean Sea promising to provide the perfect backdrop for your wedding full of extraordinary Rose Hall experiences. Imagine a cocktail reception for your guests, with elegant garden furnishings perched under a stately banyan tree and the serenade of an amazing saxophonist whilst your guests sip the finest tropical liqueurs. Now imagine a magnificent dinner reception under the stars enveloped by the majestic presence of an exotically lit Great House as your guests are entertained by talented islanders. There is an experience that you can only have in Jamaica! There is a perfection you can only get at Rose Hall! For information: instylevacations.ca info@instylevacations.ca www.rosehall.com
For the ultimate wedding experience, Barbados offers you a perfect setting and is guaranteed to give you a unique and unforgettable wedding experience like no other. Beautiful beaches, incredible scenery, relaxed environment and an amazing array of accommodation. You are spoilt for choice as to where, when and how you say ‘I Do’. St. Nicholas Abbey provides special personal ceremonies at the heart of the beautiful estate. The tropical vegetation decorates the ground exquisitely, acting as an embrace for your ceremony. Here is the perfect place for couples wanting a traditional wedding in a place of exquisite class and comfort. If you and your partner want to experience a unique ceremony, why not dive into an unforgettable experience on the Atlantis Submarine? Observe marine life and corals of many colours as you sipp champagne and savouring mouthfuls - all 45m below the surface of the water! The glistening turquoise waters of Barbados are truly magical. And what better way to include this gem of the Caribbean in your ceremony on a luxury catamaran. There is no better place to share your days and make unforgettable memories. Find out how Barbados can make the biggest day of your life your happiest! See www.visitbarbados.org
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 40
WHAT’S YOUR WEDDING STYLE?
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, decors, 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.
GET A SNEAK PEEK OF YOUR BIG DAY
The ultimate wedding awaits you at Hyatt Zilara and Hyatt Ziva, a collection of all-inclusive beachfront resorts, home to some of the Caribbean’s most stunning wedding venues. Within these luxurious adults-only and all-ages properties lie endless possibilities for couples to make their dream wedding a reality. It begins with the destination – the exquisite oceanfront setting – but it doesn’t end there. Vibrant culture, authentic cuisine, signature swim-up suites, sparkling infinity pools and magnificent wedding venues are at the essence of these resorts that provide the beautiful backdrop for your most special day. Craft the wedding of your dreams with the help of experienced on-site wedding specialists, available to you seven days a week. At each resort, choose from a range of wedding packages – including free weddings – and venues such as beachfront gazebos, rooftop sky decks, formal ballrooms and gorgeous gardens.
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.
You’re invited to enjoy a Big Day Preview of your ideal wedding destination during a two-night all-inclusive stay for only $500 for two. Meet with your personal onsite wedding planner for an exclusive resort tour and special food tastings. Plus, you’ll receive a $500 credit when you book your wedding – it’s like getting your Big Day Preview stay for free!
For more information: instylevacations.ca instyledestinationweddings.com
For information: 888.963.7643 – playaresorts.com
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 41
THE BEST BEACHES IN THE CARIBBEAN The Luxury Included® Vacation
LUXURY WEDDINGS WORLDWIDE The name promises romance.
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 Five-Star Global Gourmet 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 itsown 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.
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
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 42
VISIT SARDINIA An extraordinary 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. 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 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.
OASIS HOTELS & RESORTS
Magical destination weddings and unforgettable honeymoons await at any of Oasis Hotels & Resorts’ premium all-inclusive enclaves. Located on the powdery white-sand beaches of Cancun and the Riviera Maya, Oasis Resorts overlook the turquoise waters of the Mexican Caribbean. Oasis Hotels & Resorts offers a variety of options, from romantic to exotic, so couples can make their special day unique and unforgettable. Each resort has a dedicated wedding planner whose only priority is to make wishes come true. The expansive Pyramid at Grand Oasis offers the bride and groom lush gardens, magnificent oceanfront venues and delectable restaurants at every turn. With so many options, no two weddings are the same. The adults-only Grand Oasis Sens is sexy and provocative, offering couples decadent guest rooms with private plunge pools on discreet balconies, all overlooking the ocean. The resort also features several of Cancun’s best restaurants, including The Black Hole, a sensatory dining-in-the-dark experience, and Hacienda Benazuza, a molecular gastronomy gem. Grand Oasis Tulum, just minutes away from one of the most famed Mayan ruins in Mexico, provides total tranquility and romance. Luxurious accommodations and a spectacular one-of-a-kind beach awaits at this off-the-beaten-path resort. For more information, visit www.o-weddings.com
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 43
OCEAN BY H10 HOTELS CUBA
THE PERFECT MATCH Make your dream Royalton wedding a reality with Sunwing
Sunwing Weddings and Royalton Luxury Resorts, together, can create your perfect destination wedding. Begin your journey with the planning assistance of Sunwing. Pick from a selection of beautiful locations from Royalton Luxury Resorts. Enjoy some of the extra perks when you book your wedding as a group.
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 unforgetable 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. You and your guests will have the experience of a lifetime in a five-star resort with value-packed amenities. than most tropical destination weddings because it enriches your stay by embracing and celebrating the local Cuban culture, adding colour 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.
For information: Oceanhotels.net ejecutivo.comercial@oceanvistazul.co.cu coordinadora.bodas@oceancasadelmar.co.cu
Wedding Planning Made Easy With Sunwing Vacations’ wedding planning services, you have planning expertise along with an expert travel agent knowledge all in one. They help select which Royalton Luxury Resort is best for you and also arrange the documentation to legally tie the knot. Choose from the Diamond Package to cover all your basics and a few extra tools and tips, or opt for the Platinum Package for the ultimate customized wedding planning experience and 10 hours of planning service. Destination Day Details from Royalton Resorts packages and a variety of picturesque settings, such as, golden sand beaches, striking architectural chapels or rooftop terraces with views of the waves. Select special add-ons to enhance your celebration with unique extras, such as, bridal party spa experiences and late-night desert tables, plus discover the traditional or religious elements you’re looking for with Hindu, Jewish, or Catholic options. Picture-Perfect Perks Book your wedding group with Sunwing Vacations and consider these exclusive bride and groom perks a wedding gift to you.* • Complimentary upgrade to Elite Plus in Sunwing Airlines • Complimentary access to the Plaza Premium Lounge (at select airports) • $100 per couple destination excursion credit • $500 anniversary travel credit (with a minimum of 10 rooms booked) For more details contact your travel agent or for an instant group quote visit sunwing.ca.
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 44
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 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.
YOUR WEDDING. YOUR STYLE.
A custom wedding experience at Beaches Resorts
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? Only you can answer these questions because, today, every couple designs their own experience. 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 resort where everything is included in a beautiful location – and that is what Beaches Resorts offer, with added luxury. 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 luxury experience with a wealth of included 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, island adventure tours, and a variety of international cuisines that make every meal a gourmet dining 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 no-charge wedding planning dream team from pretravel 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!
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 45
THE INN AT ENGLISH HARBOR A Caribbean history with Italian details
The Inn, with just 28 rooms in a vast setting of 19 acres of seaside property, offers the ultimate in privacy and exclusivity in this luxurious and famous five-star hotel. Imagine gourmet dining with five-star cuisine. The Terrace restaurant overlooks the lush gardens and harbour with yachts floating in the bay. The Reef restaurant offers breakfast and lunch without ever leaving the beach. The Italian owners, Enzo and Susanna, enriched the property by adding Susanna’s personal touch with objects collected from China, Bali, the Middle East and Africa, all while keeping the traditions of the colonial style decor. This luxurious and exclusive property will provide a magical backdrop which you and your guests will remember forever. A memorable experience is to spend a night in an intimate setting aboard The Inn’s private Yacht Xenia, where you will be indulged with every comfort and luxury. If tennis is your game, take advantage of the Tennis Offer at The Inn with professional tennis games. If you prefer golf, visit Cedar Valley, just 30 minutes away. This is a golf course famous for its breathtaking setting and beautiful scenery. Imagine being married in this paradise. It is perfection! For information: theinnantigua.com info@instylevacations.ca
A CARIBBEAN
WEDDING EXPERIENCE
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. THE WEDDING PACKAGES They have crafted three different 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. 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. 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. 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. Creative Thinking. Unforgettable Memories. For information: signaturevacations.com/Be-Live/
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 46
MEMORABLE SETTINGS FOR EXCLUSIVE WEDDINGS LET US CREATE YOUR PERSONAL AND UNIQUE DESTINATION WEDDING
LWW Logo Color Guide Pantone 7528 U
Pantone 1817 U
DESTINATIONWEDDINGMAGAZINE.CA • 47
PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHAEL SAAB
W W W. L U X U R Y W E D D I N G S W O R L D W I D E . C O M
dream
Y O U R L U X U R Y I N C L U D E D®
HONEYMOON
q
O N LY AT S A N D A L S
®
Every desire, every temptation, every luxury is included in your five-star Luxury Included® dream honeymoon at Sandals Resorts. From our exotic and decadently romantic Love Nest Suites ®, endless land and water sports including golf* and scuba*, to unlimited premium spirits at up to 11 bars and 5-Star Global Gourmet dining at up to 16 outstanding restaurants. The best of everything is all included, all unlimited, all the time, so you can spend time thinking about your new life together. Exclusively at Sandals, the resorts made for love. TM
®
Love Is All You Need, Everything Else Is Included The #1 in Destination Weddings and Honeymoons
SANDALS.COM/WEDDINGMOONS 1-877-SANDALS or call your Travel Professional @weddingmoons
JAMAICA • ANTIGUA • SAINT LUCIA • BAHAMAS • BARBADOS *Visit www.sandals.com/disclaimers/todaysbridefallwinter2016sandals or call 1-800-SANDALS for important terms and conditions.