Take your wedding day cues from this expert's checklist
DESTINATION WEDDINGS
28 NATURE MEETS ROMANCE
Island getaways for saying “I Do” that are stylish and sustainable
HONEYMOONS
30 COUNTRY STRONG
The most romantic spots in Canada
Photography, (on our cover)
Rosetta Li Weddings at The Ritz-Carlton Toronto; dress, Rent the Couture; hair and makeup, Michele Rose Beauty; model, Alexandra. (This page)
Matt Besenyodi Photography.
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Romantic? Isn’t it
On the bridal fashion runways, feminine florals, delicate lace and princess-bride elegance continue dominating aisle style, while the 1920s and 1950s look suddenly modern again
SAREH NOURI
NICOLE + FELICIA
JUSTIN ALEXANDER SIGNATURE
PRINCESS BRIDE
IDAN
INES DI SANTO
PETALS LACE &
ESE AZENABOR
INES DI SANTO
JUSTIN ALEXANDER SIGNATURE
HALTER
OUMA BRIDAL
NARDOS
THE ’20S
THE ’50S
DREAMS BY LIHI HOD
REEM ACRA SIGNATURE
OUMA BRIDAL
IDAN
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Venetian
Dream
LUCY & MARK
On a sunny day in June, Lucy and Mark from Toronto celebrated their love with an enchanting destination wedding in Venice, Italy, blending elegance and rich cultural heritage. Lucy had fallen in love with Venice a decade earlier, especially the Armenian Catholic Church on San Lazzaro Island, a sacred site gifted to Armenian monks centuries ago. It became the perfect setting for their vows.
On the morning of the wedding, Lucy and Mark prepared at the historic Palazzo Alighieri with their bridal party, exchanging heartfelt gifts and soaking in the anticipation. Lucy wore a custom veil embroidered with her and Mark's names and their wedding date, adding a deeply personal touch to the day. Mark’s arrival at the church via a classic wooden water taxi added a timeless Venetian charm to the occasion. The ceremony, rooted in traditional Armenian rituals like the crowning of the bride and groom and the sharing of wine, was set against the backdrop of sacred music. As they exited the church under a shower of flower petals, the couple’s new chapter began.
The reception was held at the 16th-century villa Ca' Marcello, where guests were greeted with live lounge music, Italian canapés and cocktails. Lucy and Mark made a grand entrance in a vintage Porsche Boxster before sharing an intimate first dance to “Endless Love” in the villa’s frescoed ballroom. The night was filled with surprises, including a playful twist on the traditional Armenian bridal dance, a cake-cutting ceremony under the stars and a dazzling fireworks display that lit up the Venetian sky. Guests embraced the Venetian magic by donning masks, indulging in desserts like tiramisu and gelato and dancing the night away.
The celebration was one filled with personal touches and heartfelt moments. Lucy tossed her bouquet from the villa’s balcony, while Mark removed her garter to the sounds of Justin Timberlake’s “SexyBack.” The music later transitioned into lively Armenian tunes, ensuring a joyful, unforgettable night that honoured love, family and cultural heritage, leaving everyone with memories as timeless as the city of Venice itself.
Welcome Event Venue: Hotel Monaco
Grand Canal
Church: San Lazzaro degli Armeni
Reception Venue: Ca'Marcello Villa Veneta
Florist: La Dogaressa Flowers
Caterer: La Crème Banqueting
Rings:
Porsche
Photography: Facibeni Fotografia
Wedding Planner: Angel Lion Weddings
Cake: Sugarcups Cake Design
Lighting: RAVA service
Bride’s gowns: Rasario Bridal (welcome); Nicole + Felicia, Estrelle Bridal (ceremony); Ines Di Santo (reception); Armenian dance dress and jewellery: Maral by Pregomesh; mini, Chosen by Kyha
Custom Veil: Sash and Veil
Shoes: Mach and Mach; Sophia Webster
Groom’s tuxedos: Brunello Cucinelli (welcome); King and Bay (ceremony); Garrison Bespoke (reception)
Hair and makeup: Regina Khanova
Design by Sevan
Rental: Rent4classics
Rhythm AND Romance
IF MUSIC IS YOUR PASSION, HIT A HIGH NOTE WITH THIS THEMED WEDDING IDEA
For this wedding editorial, Danielle Andrews of The Wedding Planners Institute of Canada, along with a team of fellow wedding professionals, turned up the volume with Rhythm and Romance: A Tribute to Motown Elegance, photographed at The RitzCarlton, Toronto. “This inspirational story was created to capture the soul of Motown, blending luxury, nostalgia and the magic of that iconic era into a celebration where love and rhythm meet,” says Andrews.
The theme takes us on a journey back to a time when music was pure magic and love felt like a melody. The ballroom’s opulence sets the perfect stage for this soulful celebration.
Guests are welcomed by a beautifully adorned baby grand piano and the smooth, live sounds of BluSoul, filling the space with classics from The Temptations, Marvin Gaye and more. The ceremony space, framed by floor-to-ceiling windows and bursting with florals, feels bright, airy and romantic, the perfect backdrop for our stunning couple, whose style and joyful energy fill the room like music.
Signature cocktails, the “My Girl Martini” and “Ain’t No Mountain Highball,” pay tribute to Motown’s most beloved tunes and offer guests a sip of both nostalgia and sophistication.
Tablescapes in rich shades of purple, pink and blue echo the soulful tones of the era, with every detail intentionally designed to bring the spirit of Motown to life. Even the menu nods to the theme, with dishes named after Motown songs and artists, from indulgent truffle mac bites to a perfectly prepared filet mignon with red wine reduction, a true feast for both the eyes and palate.
Rhythm and Romance is a timeless homage to love, music and the irresistible elegance of Motown.
Photography: Rosetta Li Weddings | Planner & Designer: Danielle Andrews, The Wedding Planners | Day-of Coordinators: Joy Jones Lewis, Roxy Luxury Weddings; Lea Vainer, Impeccable Moments; Rosemarie Whitley, Allure Events Planning | Venue: The Ritz-Carlton Toronto | Flowers & Décor: Infinitude Designs; Fleur Weddings | Live Motown Band: BluSoul | Stationery: Royal Stationery Design | Dresses: Rent the Couture | Shoes: Bella Belle | Tuxedos: Andrew’s Formals | Linens: Linen Closet | Tabletop Rentals: Nayos Event Rentals | Furniture Rentals: Detailz Couture | Cake: Sweet and Shy Cakes | Women's Hair & Makeup: Michele Rose Beauty | Men’s Hair: Tito’s Fades | Models: Alexandra Mole and Nick Tito
Season Green The
This styled shoot was inspired by a rich garden romance aesthetic set inside a brick courtyard, says photographer Matt Besenyodi, something that blends old-world elegance with lush, modern botanical design. The colour palette of deep burgundies, fresh greens and crisp whites suggests an intentional nod to late-summer florals or transitional autumn styling, where hydrangeas shift hue and greenery takes centre stage.
The gold accent details add a regal touch that makes the setup feel luxurious without becoming overly formal. There’s also a strong sense of continuity throughout the shoot: the floral arch informs the tablescape, which then echoes again in the seating chart and the custom invite suite anticipates the dayof stationery. Altogether, it created an immersive environment that felt like stepping into a carefully curated garden fête.
“To bring this concept to life, we began by defining the focal point – the large floral arch – knowing it would anchor the space and set the tone for the rest of the design elements,” he says. Once the floral palette and primary textures were chosen (hydrangea, amaranthus, roses, greenery, linen and velvet), the tablescape was built around them: gold chairs and cutlery to warm up the palette, white scalloped dishware for softness and structure, green glassware to bridge the floral hues and tall candelabras to introduce verticality that mirrors the arch.
Custom hydrangea-printed name tags and deep red menus provided tailored, tactile details that tied everything together. “Finally, the seating chart – a green velvet backdrop framing the custom-shaped chart – became the transitional design element, visually connecting the tables to the ceremony backdrop and reinforcing the lush, romantic narrative of the shoot."
Photography: Matt Besenyodi Photography Venue: The Hare
| Florals: Lady Lavender Floral | Stationery: June + Opal; Branca
Design (seating chart) | Tableware: Nayos | Furniture Rentals: Special Event Rentals | Sweets Table: Sweet and Shy Cakes
| Dresses: Chez Jordan Oakville | Jewelry: Olaeda | Drapery:
Set The Mood Decor | Candleware: Pisani Wedding Decor
| Model: Katerina Mellor | Hair and Makeup: Makeup by Elisha
THE LIST
Hit
We asked wedding expert Danielle Andrews to give us her insider secrets. Use her advice to create your ultimate wedding checklist.
1. Start With The Couple’s Story
The most impactful weddings are personal. Begin with a detail about the couple and expand it into a full design concept. Whether it’s blending two cultures, honouring family traditions or showcasing shared passions, this is what transforms a wedding from “pretty” to unforgettable.
Expert tip: Find that unique thread – a love story, a meaningful memory or even a favourite song – and let it inspire the décor, menu and music.
2. Create a Statement Ceremony Backdrop
Without a ceremony, there is no wedding to celebrate. The ceremony is just as, if not more, important than the reception. It is the entire purpose for the day and the first glimpse of the wedding. A ceremony should be breathtaking the moment guests arrive.
Expert tip: Always choose a backdrop that frames the couple beautifully and works with the venue’s natural setting. Layer florals, drapery or architectural features to create depth and drama. Your backdrop should highlight the couple and look amazing from every camera angle.
3. Mix Bold Colours With Natural Textures
Weddings are joyous celebrations, so don’t be afraid to go big with colour. Rich jewel tones, tropical brights or even monochromatic palettes can make a huge impact.
Expert tip: Balance vibrant blooms with grounding elements like wood tables, linen runners or rattan chargers for a look that feels both luxurious and approachable.
4. Make Dining an Experience
Guests remember more than what they ate, they remember how it felt. “Recently at a destination event, the cocktail reception was a sunset cruise and we arrived by catamaran!” says Andrews.
Expert tip: Think beyond the menu and turn dinner into an experience with interactive chef stations, signature cocktails or surprise entertainment between courses.
5. Incorporate Cultural & Personal Touches
Whether it’s a family recipe on the menu, a meaningful reading or a cultural dance or ritual, these details connect guests to the couple’s story.
Expert tip: Have conversations early in the planning process about traditions, heirlooms and symbolic elements that should be honoured.
6. Set Up Multiple Photo-Worthy Zones
Create different styled spaces for guests to discover and enjoy throughout the event.
Expert tip: Set up multiple “wow” moments throughout the event so guests always have something to discover (and photograph!).
Lounges, interactive guest books, styled dessert tables or interactive stations encourage movement, conversation and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.
7. Layer the Lighting
Lighting can transform a space from ordinary to enchanting. It is one of the most effective ways to set the mood, making a space feel magical after dark.
Expert tip: Use a mix of candles, bistro lights and uplighting to create warmth and intimacy.
8. Encourage Guest Interaction
Interactive moments keep guests engaged and talking about your event long after it ends.
Expert tip: Add DIY cocktail bars, live artists, photo stations or handson experiences, anything that gets guests involved in the celebration.
A truly unforgettable wedding is about more than pretty décor. It’s about creating an experience that feels like the couple. By focusing on their story, designing intentional spaces and engaging every sense, you transform a wedding into something deeply personal and memorable.
The wedding of your dreams is here, and it’s on us. Get the best value in the Caribbean at Sandals® and Beaches® Resorts, where your whole wedding is already part of the package. Yes, really.
With over 40 years of experience crafting fairytale weddings across the islands, we have everything you need to create a ceremony that’s all you. Just book 7 or more nights in a Club or Butler Suite — we’ll handle the rest.
So, what exactly does the best value in the Caribbean entail? From the moment you book, you’re paired with a dedicated wedding planning team. They coordinate every element before you arrive and keep things running smoothly during your stay. That way, you get to spend your time focusing on what really matters: making lasting memories with the people you love most, without a worry on your mind.
And those memories only get better when they’re set against the most breathtaking backdrops in the Caribbean — like golden sunsets across Jamaica, the soaring Pitons of Saint Lucia, or crystal clear turquoise waters in Turks and Caicos.
Every island has its own unique charm, and it’s up to you to decide where your new chapter begins. Whether it’s a private villa floating above the sea or an oceanview swim-up suite made for romance, each
Your Wedding On Us
space is designed for unforgettable moments. There’s also an impressive variety of ceremony venues, including overwater chapels, beachfront aisles, garden gazebos, and traditional chapels. These are all fully customizable, with the Caribbean’s vibrant beauty setting a naturally stunning foundation, so decor can be as simple or as elaborate as you’d like. Special touches like a steel drum band, fire dancers lighting up the dance floor, or engraved coconuts for your guests can also add a local layer of authenticity to your celebration.
Even the experiences you get on the island are tailored to individual tastes. Choose from globalinspired dining options for every craving, an array of delicious handcrafted cocktails, and unlimited activities around each resort — all included, so you and your guests can simply enjoy living in the moment together.
Here, the celebration doesn’t end after the “I do’s.” Once the vows are exchanged and the last dance winds down, you’re already in the best place to kick off the honeymoon of a lifetime — now, just the two of you. Try island-hopping or exploring the nearby Sandals and Beaches Resorts. Each destination offers something new to fall in love with. Want to make sure your chosen island is ‘the one’? We do too. Enjoy a test drive of your wedding with exclusive preview rates starting from $275 per night.
To book your wedding or honeymoon, call 1.877.SANDALS, visit Sandals.com, or call your Travel Advisor.
Picture your wedding in the Caribbean. The best part? Maybe it’s the ease of having every detail handled by our expert wedding concierge team. Or maybe… it’s this: when you book 7 or more nights in a Club or Butler Suite, your wedding is on us. Call it our gift to you.
NatureRomance MEETS
An inspiring new wedding program lets couples tie the knot in style while honouring the islands they love
Sandals Resorts and Beaches
Resorts are helping couples plan weddings that are as stylish as they are sustainable. For 2026 and beyond, the Caribbean brands have unveiled Nature’s Vow, a new wedding inspiration that blends eco-conscious design with the e ortless elegance of the islands.
“With Nature’s Vow, we’re not only giving couples a stunning new design inspiration but also a way to celebrate responsibly – in harmony with the islands we call home,” said Marsha-Ann Donaldson, Director of Weddings and Romance at Sandals Resorts. “Our guests are increasingly seeking meaning behind every moment of their celebration, and Nature’s Vow delivers just that.”
Eco-Inspired Design
Nature’s Vow draws its inspiration from the Caribbean’s lush landscapes, incorporating earthy tones, natural textures and locally sourced accents. Couples can exchange vows amid greenery- lled arches, bamboo details and eco-forward orals, while potted plants o er a sustainable touch that can be reused for future celebrations. Plant selections vary by resort, with Turks and Caicos featuring Areca and Kentia palms, banana plants, monstera, bird of paradise, philodendron and dracaena, providing a tropical backdrop for memorable ceremonies. e inspiration joins Sandals’ existing collection, which also includes Jamaican Tropical Hues, celebrating bold island culture, and Azure Tides, re ecting the calm beauty of the Caribbean Sea.
Weddings with Purpose
Nature’s Vow aligns with Sandals’ broader environmental initiatives through the Sandals Foundation. Couples can incorporate meaningful, eco-conscious touches into their celebrations, such as symbolic tree planting ceremonies in Jamaica and Turks and Caicos that support reforestation projects. Locally made gi s from the Caribbean Artisan Collection can be included in welcome packages, and wedding garments can be donated to support food programs and shelters for women and children. Le over reception food is repurposed into organic fertilizer for resort gardens and nearby farms, while Island Routes excursions allow couples to take part in turtle releases or guided cycling tours.
A Special Offer for Couples
To mark the debut of Nature’s Vow, Sandals and Beaches Resorts are o ering a complimentary Sweetheart Wedding package for couples who book a minimum of seven nights in a Club or Butler Suite. e package covers a ceremony for up to 10 guests, décor, a dinner party, wedding cake, pre-arrival planning support and a US$200 credit towards photography and videography. For couples seeking a celebration that honours both their love and the environment, Sandals’ Nature’s Vow o ers an unforgettable way to say “I do” in the Caribbean. For more information, visit www.sandals.com/weddings and www.beaches.com/weddings.
COUNTRY STRONG
THE BEST DESTINATIONS FOR ROMANTIC HONEYMOONS IN CANADA
What makes Canada the perfect honeymoon destination? It’s the way the landscape seems to reflect the vastness of your love – endless forests, tranquil lakes and towering peaks that leave you in awe. Canada’s magic lies in its diversity: you can find everything from secluded retreats to vibrant cities, all with an unmatched charm that makes each moment feel like something straight out of a fairytale.
Here are the top destinations that will make your romantic honeymoon in Canada as breathtaking as the country itself.
Banff, Alberta
If someone said romantic honeymoons in Canada without mentioning Banff or Lake Louise, it would be a crime. Picture crystalline turquoise lakes framed by towering peaks that look almost too perfect to be true. Spend your days paddleboarding on Moraine Lake or head out for a couples’ massage at a luxury alpine spa. Evenings? Think cozy fireside cocktails, romantic hot tub dips with mountain views and stargazing so good it makes you forget your phone even exists.
Tofino, British Columbia
Rugged, windswept beaches. Rainforests so green they seem otherworldly. Bonfires on the sand and storm-watching from luxury lodges. Romantic honeymoons in Canada can lean into the wild, and Tofino does it best. Adventurous couples can take surfing lessons (even if you wipe out, it’ll make a great story), or go kayaking with sea otters bobbing nearby. Afterwards, dial up the romance in a deepsoaking tub with Pacific views and candlelight. Tofino is perfect for barefoot luxury lovers who’d rather wear sweaters and boots.
Niagara-on-theLake, Ontario
If candlelit streets and carriage rides sound like your kind of romance, Niagara-on-the-Lake delivers. This charming town overflows with wineries perfect for lazy afternoon tastings. Stay at a historic inn, slip into something fancy and wander from boutique to bistro until the whole evening feels dipped in honey.
Charlevoix Region, Quebec
Charlevoix feels like it was stitched together just for romantic honeymoons in Canada. Here is where you’ll find sleepy riverside towns, sweeping mountain views and art galleries tucked into tiny lanes. Stay at a countryside inn, book a couples’ massage after a day of whalewatching and order every decadent thing on the menu. It’s relaxed, charming and just unfamiliar enough to feel like a grand adventure.
Charlevoix Region, Quebec
Quebec City, Quebec
For couples dreaming of romantic honeymoons in Canada with serious European flair, Quebec City will have you swooning by breakfast. Stay inside the walls of Old Quebec for maximum magic. Wander through art galleries, sip wine in tuckedaway cafés and book a candlelit dinner inside a restaurant older than the country itself. In winter, it’s all twinkling lights and sugar-shack kisses; in summer, it’s outdoor patios and late-night strolls where every corner has a street musician playing the soundtrack for your love story.
The South Shore, Nova Scotia
If you’re looking for a romantic honeymoon in Canada that’s a bit off the beaten path, the South Shore of Nova Scotia offers an experience that’s rarely mentioned in honeymoon guides. Picture this: quiet villages, lush forests and dramatic coastlines with lighthouses standing guard over the rugged cliffs. The South Shore is filled with charming bed-and-breakfasts, seaside inns and welcoming locals ready to share a story or two.
Old Quebec City
Plan the Wedding of your Dreams
Whether it’s sleek sophistication, quiet elegance or an unexpected touch of adventure, Niagara Parks Weddings has the perfect answer. Exchange your vows in a garden so magnificent it will take your breath away, then celebrate your love at a reception venue like no place on Earth.
Trust our experienced event specialists to help you create memories for a lifetime at one of our spectacular venues. From showers and engagement parties to weddings and anniversary events, look to us to help bring your dream to life.
Along our 56 kilometres, Niagara Parks offers nine picturesque ceremony locations and four stunning reception venues.
