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CONTENTS
Bridal Guide March/April 2021 53
FASHION & BEAUTY 16 COVER STYLE
How to get that beautiful look.
18 STYLE FILE: BRIDES
Romantic red details; ethereal touches of lilac.
24 ALL THAT GLITTERS
Multi-stone engagement rings prove that more is definitely more.
26 BEAUTY FILE
Our just-in-case guide to fixing latebreaking beauty emergencies.
53 CLOUD NINE
A roundup of dreamy dresses, each more special than the next. Think airy tulle and floaty chiffon touched with lavish lace detailing.
60 RUNWAY REPORT
Square necklines; sexy peekaboo cutouts; detachable skirts and more.
ON THE COVER • 425 Insta-Worthy Ideas: Special Touches for a Wow Day! • Find the Right Dress! With the Look, Fit and Details You’ll Love, p.18, 53
60 26 20
00
• Save Money! Budget Tips Every Bride Should Know, p.50 • 12 Easy Ways to Goof-Proof Your Wedding, p.40 • Hello Gorgeous: 10 Quick Fixes for the Big Day, p.26 • Cheers! Creative Cocktails for Your Reception, p.32
Chapters Adventures NEW
BRING NEW
And new adventures deserve quality coverage.
Your future is plenty to celebrate – and GEICO could make celebrating easy. By bundling policies, you could say “I do” to the savings and coverage you need to help build a life together. Get a quote today!
geico.com | 1-800-947-AUTO | Local Office Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, and features are not available in all states, in all GEICO companies, or in all situations. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2021 GEICO 594237320
CONTENTS
Bridal Guide March/April 2021
WEDDING PLANNING 28 PARTY PLANNER
A magical take on a holiday wedding.
32 BRIDAL INSIDER
Creative cocktail ideas. Salut!
36 SHARE THE LOVE
Put a wildly romantic spin on your wedding with these creative ideas. by Kristen Finello
40 PERFECT PLANNING
Pros share the common planning mistakes they see couples make, and offer their easy fixes. by Mary Clarke
42 COUNTDOWN CALENDAR 47 ASK DAVID
A few things our guru likes and dislikes about wedding planning.
48 BUDGET GURU
Here’s how to ask your parents to help defray your wedding costs.
62 WEDDING ALBUM
An Art Deco celebration in Park City, UT.
MARCH /APRIL
62
NEWS & FEATURES
2021
& Destination W
edding Guide
14 WEDDING Q&A
Where to go in 2021
Etiquette questions and answers.
FIND YOUR PERFEC OF OUR FAV T PARADISE AT ONE ORITE PLACES IN THE SUN
50 10 BUDGET BLUNDERS
Avoid these major missteps to keep your wedding spending in check.
HOT OFF THE PRESS!
SNEAK A PEEK AT THIS COOL NEW
Get more online at
32
bridalguide.com
BRIDAL ACCESSORIES Complete your wedding-day look with new accessories at bridalguide.com/accessories SPRING CELEBRATIONS Get ready for springtime weddings with the ideas at bridalguide.com/spring CHEER UP! See 25+ wedding ideas that’ll make you smile at bridalguide.com/happy
50
PROPERTY
SPECIAL SECTION IN CK BAHIG SKY H CHECK OUT ULTRA-CHIC THIS CITY CEREMONY PG 10
Escape to a Pr ivate Island Resort
47
Diane Forden
EDITOR IN CHIEF, VP ART DIRECTOR Mary Cate Godfrey EXECUTIVE EDITOR Mary Clarke
FASHION AND BEAUTY
FASHION AND BEAUTY EDITOR Kate Watson CONTIBUTING EDITOR Kayla Hayes
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Bridal Guide magazine (Vol. 37, No.2 March/April 2021 ISSN 0882-7451) is published bimonthly by RFP Corp., 1333A North Avenue #706, New Rochelle, NY 10804; 212-838-7733. Copyright © 2021 by RFP Corp. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use without permission of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. Subscription Rates: U.S. and possessions one year $18.95. Back issues $7; prepayment required. Periodicals postage paid at New York, NY 10017 and additional offices. All unsolicited editorial must be accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. We assume no responsibility for returning unsolicited material, including but not limited to photographs, artwork, manuscripts and letters. Postmasters—Send address changes to P.O. Box 37038, Boone IA 50037-0038. PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.
etiquette
Q&A
ANSWERS
wedding
Straight talk, smart solutions by Diane Forden, Editor in Chief
Q
I’m about to start planning my wedding. Do you have any tips on how to find the right wedding pros? Wilmington, Delaware
A
Finding the right pros does take some time but the effort will be well worth it in the long run. Start by doing online research and make sure you check out a vendor’s website and Instagram. Both should be up-to-date and feature their most recent work. I personally like to see galleries on vendors’ sites that effectively showcase their diverse talents. Look for positive online reviews as well. Word of mouth is always a plus, and if you liked a vendor’s work from a friend’s or relative’s wedding you attended then seek them out. When you meet with vendors ask to see entire portfolios of the weddings they planned, decorated or photographed. Keep in mind that good communication is key and if your emails or phone calls are not answered promptly consider it a warning that this unresponsiveness could be a potential problem later on. When you meet with vendors, have your questions ready, and make sure you feel comfortable speaking with them. Do you hit it off? Are they friendly and willing to take the time to answer your questions and address your concerns? Can they work within your budget? Do they make you and your fiancé feel special? If there is any hesitation or second-guessing then it’s best to keep looking. JUNIOR MISS
Q
Is my niece, who is 10, too old to be a flower girl or should she be considered a junior bridesmaid? If so,
what is her role and should she be paired with a groomsman for the processional and recessional? Atlanta, Georgia
A
Your niece is just the right age to be a junior bridesmaid—flower girls are generally between the ages of 4 and 8 and junior bridesmaids are 10 to 14 years old. She won’t have any specific responsibilities other than to participate in your rehearsal and ceremony. And although she can attend the bridal shower she’s not expected to contribute financially. As far as her position in the processional and recessional, she can either walk down the aisle before the other bridesmaids (a partner from the groom’s side is not needed), or after the bridesmaids and just before the maid of honor. The same procedure follows for the recessional. TAKE A SEAT
Q
Guests will be standing at our outdoor ceremony. However, we will have some chairs for our older relatives. How can we make sure that the other guests will not Bozeman, Montana take their seats?
A
Your best bet is to place “Reserved” signs on the backs of the chairs so others won’t assume it’s a first-come, firstserved arrangement. You should also make sure that your ushers know which relatives are to be seated so they can escort them to their seats. And should any of the other guests take the seats by mistake your ushers should politely inform them that the chairs have been reserved.
DIVORCE DILEMMA
Q
My divorced parents are not on good terms and I’m worried about how they might behave toward one another at my wedding. Any Richmond, Virginia advice?
A
I assume you have a good relationship with both your mom and dad so let each one know how you are feeling. It will help a great deal if they realize just how anxious you are about their displaying any animosity or unpleasant behavior on your wedding day. Stress how this will affect not only your enjoyment of the day itself but also the memories you’ll have of what should be one of the happiest days of your life. Tell your parents that you hope they will not let their emotions rule the day and will be able to let go of any anger or ill will. You want this to be a joyful occasion for everyone. They may not realize how concerned you are so addressing this issue now, openly and honestly, will persuade them to make every effort to be on their best behavior. ››› Go to bridalguide.com/QA for more etiquette advice. And send your planning questions to us at mail@bridalguide.com.
PHOTOGRAPHY: LAUREN FAIR PHOTOGRAPHY, LAURENFAIRPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
VENDOR SEARCH
Weddings
cover style
GET THE LOOK
LACE EFFECT Illusion lace sleeves and sparkling sequins imbue this off-theshoulder fit-and-flare lace gown with show-stopping elegance.
E BEAUTY NOT
2
4 3
1
With glowing skin and glittering eyes, you’re bound to be a knockout on your big day. First, apply (1 ) L’Oréal Paris Skin Paradise Tinted Moisturizer for lightweight, natural-looking coverage. Next, use (2) Beauty Bakerie Neapolitan Bar bronzer to accentuate your cheekbones. Add a slight flush with the longwear, fade-free pink blush on
the apples of your cheeks and then use the champagne shade to highlight the peaks of your face. After, swipe a generous amount of (3 ) YSL The Curler Lengthening and Curling Mascara to do as its name states for long, look-at-me lashes. Finish by gliding (4) Live Tinted Huestick in Perk on your lips to get a luscious long-lasting demi-matte color.
PHOTOGRAPHY: TERRY DOYLE. HAIR & MAKEUP: MICHIKO BOORBERG USING ORIBE HAIR CARE FOR BRYAN BANTRY
S
tunning hand-embroidered floral accents complement the sleek fit, while the sequin underlay and chapel train bring the wow-factor to the next level. Gown, price upon request, by Eve of Milady Couture Collection; eveofmiladybridals. com. Star earrings by Jennifer Behr; jenniferbehr.com. Engagement ring by Vow by Ring Concierge; ringconcierge. com. Tulle backdrop by LaMorA Invitations; etsy.com/shop/ lamorainvitations. Hand-tied custom, 40-stem floral bridal arrangement includes scabiosa, larkspur, butterfly ranunculus, preserved Italian ruscus, seeded eucalyptus, pom pom dahlias, lisianthus, ranunculus and roses by Farmgirl Flowers; farmgirlflowers.com or email events@farmgirlflowers.com for custom orders.
lillianwest.com
style file
BRIDES
LOVE FEST by Kayla Hayes
Tourmaline and gold pendant by Ashley Zhang; ashleyzhangjewelry.com
PIA GLADYS PEREY
KIM KASSAS COUTURE
Let your heart take the lead with details that burst with romance.
Heart lingerie set by Morgan Lane; morgan-lane.com
Rose quartz heart necklace by Kendra Scott; kendrascott.com
Pink invite with roses by Mother of Pearl; papier.com
HALFPENNY LONDON
Monogrammed heart-shaped hair clip with Swarovski crystals by Lelet NY; leletny.com VIKTOR&ROLF MARIAGE
The Caker Mini Heart Cake by Jordan Rondel; thecaker.co.nz
HERMIONE DE PAULA
Red crystal teardrop earrings by kate spade new york; macys.com
The Message metallic red polish by Smith & Cult; smithandcult.com
Hand-poured acrylic Mrs. clutch by Edie Parker; edie-parker.com
Red satin pump with embellished buckle by Roger Vivier; rogervivier.com
style file
BRIDES
LILAC
DREAMS 14k gold necklace by Haverhill; haverhillcollection.com
ALFRED SUNG
DB STUDIO EXCLUSIVELY AT DAVID’S BRIDAL
Enchant guests with a sweet dose of this stunning hue on your big day.
Crystal embellished minaudière by Nina Shoes; ninashoes.com
Silk hair scrunchie by Lilysilk; lilysilk.com
MOTEE MAIDS
Amethyst and enamel earrings by Anne Sisteron; annesisteron.com
Peony wedding invite by Hartford Prints!; papier.com
NICOLE + FELICIA COUTURE
JENNY YOO
Mon Paris eau de parfum by YSL Beauty; yslbeauty.com
Lavender and gold cocktail ring by Pharaoun; pharaoun.com Floral wraparound heel by René Caovilla; renecaovilla.com Swarovski crystal-accented bobby pin by Jennifer Behr; jenniferbehr.com
000
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PLUS YOUR BEACHES HONEYMOON INCLUDES:* A BUBBLY WELCOME A bottle of chilled sparkling wine elegantly arranged in your room upon arrival to toast your future. A ROMANTIC GESTURE A special turndown service on an evening of your honeymoon. WAKE UP TO WEDDED BLISS Delight in a delivery of fresh flowers and a decadent breakfast in bed one morning of your choice.
ENJOY A
Dream
Honeymoon WHERE EVERYTHING’S INCLUDED!
At Beaches Resorts you can celebrate the most special time of your life with the people who mean the most to you. Best of all, after your magical wedding day, the two of you can slip off to a private honeymoon in some of the most romantic suites in the Caribbean. Enjoy every land and water sport* under the sun, including a scuba ® program* voted Top 5 in the Western Hemisphere by PADI . Indulge ™ in 5-Star Global Gourmet dining at up to 21 exceptional restaurants serving unlimited pours of premium liquors. Even tips, taxes, and Beaches transfers* are included. So while you celebrate your love, your loved ones will enjoy their own unforgettable celebration, too!
BEACHES.COM/WEDDINGS 1-877-BEACHES or call your Travel Advisor JAMAICA • TURKS & CAICOS
@ beachesresortsweddings
MORE QUALITY INCLUSIONS THAN ANY OTHER RESORTS IN THE WORLD VOTE D WOR LD ’ S B E ST
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Y E A R S I N A R O W AT T H E W O R L D T R AV E L A W A R D S
*Visit Visit www.beaches.com/disclaimers/bridalguidemarapr2021 or call 1-800-BEACHES for important terms and conditions. Beaches® is a registered trademark. Unique Vacations, Inc. is an affiliate of Unique Travel Corp., the worldwide representative of Beaches Resorts.
A HONEYMOON FOR YOU, A CELEBRATION FOR EVERYONE
all that glitters
RINGS
Bespoke 18k yellowgold open ring with pear- and emeraldcut diamonds by Jemma Wynne; jemmawynne.com.
DOUBLE
TALK The more the merrier! Style one of these twostone sparklers for maximum shine. by Kayla Hayes
Two round diamonds hugged by pavé halos set in yellow gold by Forevermark; forevermark.com.
Claw-set cushionand pear-shaped diamonds on a band of 18k yellow gold by Michelle Oh; michelle-oh.com.
Emerald- and ovalcut center stones surrounded by 44 pavé diamonds by Meadowlark Meadowlark; meadowlarkjewellery.com
Two-stone ring with pear-shaped diamonds and a pavé diamond band set in 18k yellow gold by Anita Ko; anitako.com.
I NTRODUCI NG
JADE& CORAL ALSO FEATURED I SMODUS
A COLLECTI ON OFDETAI LS &TECHNI QUESUNI QUETO DENBY
MODUSAVAI LABLENOW / JADE& CORALI N STOCK EARL Y 2021 Joi nourmai l i ngl i statwww. denbyusa. com
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beauty file
TIPS
BEAUTY
TIP!
Don’t smudge your lipstick: Sip through a straw to avoid a lip color mishap and prevent liquids from staining your teeth.
From breakouts to bloating, remedy any big-day beauty troubles with these quick fixes.
1
by Kayla Hayes
You wake up with a zit. If a dreaded day-of blemish makes an appearance do not pop it, urges Ashlee Glazer, New York Citybased on-air and celebrity makeup artist. “No matter how tempting it may be, a little bump is easier to conceal than a scab.” In a pinch, press an ice cube against the spot to take down the swelling and use Visine to help reduce the redness.
Communication is key. “If you see it’s not going well you have to stop and regroup,” says Elvin Arvelo, co-owner of Oon Arvelo Salon. Arvelo suggests having a curling iron and straightener on hand for touch-ups (plus, that’s what bridesmaids are for!) if the stylist has already left. “The best way to avoid this altogether is to have a few practice trials.”
3. You’ve cried and now your makeup is streaky. All eyes will
be on you for your big day and tears will be shed. “Don’t fret—it happens,” says Glazer. “A dab of eye cream can smooth out the dark streaks without leaving a hole in the makeup.” And reach for a waterproof formula as your default big-day mascara.
5
You’ve overplucked your eyebrows. Fill in the
blanks using feathery strokes in two different shades, says New York City-based celebrity makeup artist William Scott. “One shade should match your brows; the second, lighter shade should mimic the shadow your hair casts against your face. Keep it light and slowly build up to the density you want.”
6
8. You wake up with dark circles.
Stay hydrated and try, try, try to get adequate sleep, suggests Glazer. For dayof fixes, “color correctors and eye-brightening shadows work wonders.” For blue and purple tones choose a peach color to cancel out the darkness. Add a pop of shimmer shadow at the inner corner of your eye to brighten and bounce the light.
9. Red wine stained your smile. The rehearsal went well, but the wine turned your teeth a shade of pink—don’t worry! Fiber-rich, crunchy snacks like apples or celery will quickly brighten teeth. “The astringent quality and rough texture of apples make them a natural toothbrush to rid extrinsic stains,” explains celebrity dentist Dr. Marc Lazare.
You’re bloated when you wake up. “To initiate the elimination process and flush out toxins, drink one to two glasses of warm water with lemon as early in the day as possible,” says Kimberly Snyder, celebrity clinical nutritionist. She suggests doing yoga poses, especially twists and bends that compress the midsection, to aid in reducing your bloat. Eliminate bloat-inducers like dairy, beans, onions and carbonated drinks from your diet seven days before the wedding to ensure you wake up bloat-free.
Your spray tan looks uneven.
4
“First, get in the shower and exfoliate from head to toe,” says Alyssa Hilliard, UV-free tanning expert and director at Sunless, Inc. Exfoliating diminishes the appearance of dark or orange tones. For a natural alternative, Hilliard says the acid in lemons works, “but will strip away the tan, so be careful not to use too much lemon juice as you lightly touch up areas that appear orange.”
7. Your skin is dry and flaky. Use an exfoliating cleanser or polishing mask. If you don’t have either on hand, make a simple scrub by mixing sugar and a cleanser. Massage the mixture over your dry patches, then rinse with cool water, Dr. Marnie Nussbaum, cosmetic dermatologist, suggests. Layer on a moisturizer and let it sink in completely before applying a primer.
10
Stress leaves your skin looking red and splotchy. Take
a moment and breathe! “The most important thing for you to do is quiet the skin’s inflammatory response,” says Dr. Karen Hammerman, dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group. “Rashes themselves create excess stress, often making the reaction worse.” Apply a super-hydrating moisturizer to your skin: This will protect it as it becomes more sensitive during highpressure periods— drink water and take essential fatty acids to help reduce inflammation. Cancel out redness by applying a green color corrector under your concealer.
PHOTOGRAPHY: TERRY DOYLE
2
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party planner
RECEPTION
Making Merry IN A MAGICAL TAKE ON A HOLIDAY WEDDING, EVENT DESIGNER CHARLOTTE RICARD-QUESEDA INFUSES AN ULTRA-FORMAL SETTING WITH COLOR AND WHIMSY. PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERTA FACCHINI
2
1
1. A trail of pink bud vases anchors the tables. 2.The pretty invitation suite features a snowflake motif on the envelopes. 3. Mirror tabletops amplify and illuminate the prevailing pink and gold palette. 4. Glitter reindeer roam the tablescape beneath the gaze of a gold nutcracker.
3 4
“The stately venue brought the drama and heritage needed to give our soft, romantic palette the grandeur we sought.
”—Charlotte Ricard-Queseda, founder, La Fête
party planner
RECEPTION
CAPTION HERE
Tall birch-tree arrangements with pussy willow, cherry blossoms and ornaments serve as a ceremony arch.
000 BRIDALGUIDE.COM month/month 2009
party planner
RECEPTION
1
2 1. A lineup of festive shoes adds pops of color. 2. Pretty-in-pink swirled lollipops. 3. The wildly romantic bridal bouquet adds a dose of relaxed modernity. 4. Tiered cakes take center stage on the divinely decadent dessert table. 5. Monogrammed frosted cookies.
5
3
4
Planning & design: Charlotte Ricard-Queseda, La Fête. Venue: Syon Park Floral design: Emma Soulsby Flowers Cakes & desserts: Georgia’s Cakes Invitations: Era Calligraphy Tableware: Duchess & Butler Furniture rental: Great Hire
“Rather than traditional wintry jewel tones or reds and greens, we went with rosy pink shades and flashes of silver and gold.
”—Charlotte Ricard-Queseda March/April 2021
bridal insider
RECEPTION
On Y Va sauvignon blanc to go in chic cannettes perfect for outdoor celebrations, DrinkOnYVa.com
CHEERS!
Bartesian’s new cocktail flavor pods for their on-demand drinkmaker include: gimlet, negroni, sazerac and more, bartesian.com
Sweet Tea Arnold Palmer with Seagram’s Sweet Tea Vodka, lemonade, mint and lemon. seagramsvodka.com
Raise a glass to these colorful cocktail ideas. Edited by Mary Clarke
Maple Marg with Ritual Zero Proof Tequila Alternative, orange juice, lime juice, maple syrup, lime wedge and mint, ritualzeroproof.com
Tanteo Lavender Jalapeno Cocktail with Tanteo Jalapeno Tequila, lavender syrup and fresh-squeezed lime juice, tanteotequila.com
That's the Spirit with Crystal Head Vodka, mint leaves, melon liqueur, fresh lime juice, fresh pineapple juice, crystalheadvodka.com
Lolea craft frizzanté sangrias in red, white, brut, organic and rosé. Also available in mini singleserve bottles, lolea.com
PHOTOGRAPHY: JESSE WINTER (ON Y VA); SEAN AUDET (MAPLE MARG)
Route 27 with Double Cross Vodka, sherry, simple syrup, lemon juice and blackberries, doublecrossvodka.com
WHEN YOU HAVE ONE LESS MENU TO PLAN Celebrate The Small Wins
KELLY SWEET PHOTOGRAPHY
7
Reasons to Shop at Your Local Bridal Salon
The YES Moment
You,ve probably been dreaming of this day for a long time—with good reason! There is no greater feeling than trying on a wedding gown and seeing yourself as a bride for the very first time. Surrounded by friends and loved ones makes the YES moment that much sweeter! Selection
Make the Dress Your Own
Bridal salons offer the largest selection of reputable designers, styles, and colors.Your consultant will work directly with the designer to ensure everything from the color, to the fabric and the fit, are exactly what you envision.
The dress you try on in the store is just a starting point. Want to add a sleeve? Lower the back? Elongate the train? At a traditional bridal salon, you can work with a seamstress to customize your gown and turn your dream into a reality.
Feel-Good Factor
Special Pricing
When you buy from a trusted, local bridal salon, you not only support your community, but also small businesses mostly owned by women!
No Surprises You get what you pay for. A designer dress may be pricier than similar versions online, but counterfeit gowns can be poorly constructed, ill-fitting, and made out of cheap fabrics, if you receive your gown at all.
If budget is a concern, there are many ways to shop smart at a local salon. Many brick-and-mortar stores offer discounts at designer trunk shows, and host sample sales annually.
So Much More Than Just the Gown Your trained consultant will take precise measurements, assist with alterations, and put you at ease throughout the entire process. The salon will even steam your gown and store it safely until your wedding day!
For more wedding day fashion shopping tips, visit bridalguide.com/perfectdress.
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SHARE THE LOVE BY KRISTEN FINELLO
SET THE SCENE
1
Hold your festivities at the site where your husband-to-be proposed. One
couple held their wedding at the majestic Mount Washington Hotel in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, where the groom had proposed a year earlier. Since he’d popped the question in a horse-drawn carriage, they treated guests to their own romantic rides.
2
Let your site inspire your wedding look. Engaged at the Eiffel Tower? In-
corporate a Parisian theme into everything
from your save-the-date cards to the napkins at your cocktail hour. (And consider a gorgeous French-style croquembouche cake, a wonderful cream-puff pastry covered with caramel.)
3
Some locales are inherently romantic: Choose a vineyard, a botanical
garden, a lush backyard with beautiful plantings or an old mansion with chandeliers, ornate mantelpieces and a landscaped garden for guests to roam in. With naturally gorgeous backdrops like these, you just can’t go wrong.
4
Consider the hues you use. For a fairy-tale romance effect, try a color scheme of pinks, whites and silvers. Or use shades of red, from the palest pink to luscious watermelon to a deep rose. If you prefer a more sensual, romantic ambience, choose a palette of strong, passionate reds.
5
Lighting sets the stage for romance.
Have a lighting specialist create a special glow for your first dance. You might project your married monogram or a simple, swirling design onto the dance floor. It never fails to get guests out there to
PHOTOGRAPHY: CAMERON CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY
WE ROUNDED UP 35 ULTRA-ROMANTIC WEDDING IDEAS FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE CELEBRATION.
6
kick up their heels. One idea for a very romantic looking table: a white linen tablecloth covered
with a pink overlay. Tuck a tiny, perfect rosebud into each guest’s pale pink napkin. A centerpiece might include varieties of pink blooms, such as roses, orchids, peonies and tulips.
7
Masses of candles will warm everyone’s heart. Float them in glass bowls
or cluster some in various heights on tables. At an outdoor wedding, you can achieve a magical effect by suspending dozens of tiny electric candles in small glass globes from tree branches. And don’t forget to consider nestling pretty Japanese lanterns among the branches—utterly enchanting!
8
Have table cards printed with the “firsts” of your romance. The two of
PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) O’MALLEY PHOTOGRAPHERS; VALORIE DARLING PHOTOGRAPHY; CAMERON CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY
you can write these together. Use them instead of standard table numbers—for example, one table would be the “First Kiss” table and another would be the “First Date” table and so on.
9
that he sent to you early in your relationship. Such a gesture will delight him— plus, the fact that you kept the note rates a 10 on the romance meter!
A somewhat different version of this idea: Have romantic facts about the
two of you printed on cards, and place one on each reception table. Put the cards in holders so guests can pass them around and enjoy them. For inspiration, think about the most romantic thing you’ve done for each other, how the groom proposed or your favorite thing to do as a couple. You could also include a line from a movie, song or poem that is special to you.
10
Sheer fabrics make a romantic statement. Use lengths of tulle or
organza as table runners. Adorn windows, mantels and doorways with gorgeous swags of the same fabrics.
11
Put friends’ and families’ wedding photos on display. This is a wonder-
fully inclusive way to show how much you appreciate the encouragement and support from everyone who loves you.
BE SENTIMENTAL
12
Make meaningful music. Walk down
the aisle to a song that is particularly special to the two of you. One couple hired a guitarist they’d met on a vacation in Mexico to perform “Here Comes the Sun” at their wedding ceremony.
17
For a sweet touch, consider a handpainted aisle runner. You can add
your monogram or a favorite quote from a love poem that is special to you.
ROMANTIC RIDES
13
Have him meet you halfway. The
14
Have your groom greet you at the altar with an offering. A truly roman-
15
Another way for the groom to show his romantic side: One groom
bride who is walking down the aisle solo can have her groom meet and escort her to the altar. It will be an unforgettable moment for everyone.
tic gesture is for the groom to present his bride with a single flower when she reaches the altar—it could be a perfect yellow rose or her favorite garden bloom.
conspired with the florist to add a blanket of rose petals down the aisle that ended in two circles of petals at the altar where he and his bride would stand. Create a sentimental surprise. Many couples write their own vows, but you could carry this a bit further. Read aloud a few words from a note or love letter
16
18
Choose an over-the-top mode of transportation. If you’re getting mar-
19
Build some alone time into your ride. One bride and groom decided
ried on a yacht, sail up to it in a charming, flower-festooned boat.
to splurge on a vintage Bentley to bring the two of them to their reception. That automobile ride turned out to be one of the only pockets of time that they had alone together on their wedding day. They relaxed for a few minutes, sipped champagne and marveled at the fact that they were actually married.
20
For an even more private getaway, go it alone. Some newlyweds are
choosing to go solo—sans even a hired driver. Grooms are whisking their brides away in a friend’s vintage automobile or the groom’s dream car, rented for the occasion. One groom we know decided ➺
>> BRIDALGUIDE.COM Get inspired by the romantic wedding photos at bridalguide.com/romantic
send guests audio files of the playlist along with details that include the name of the song, the couple who chose it and how long they’ve been married. (For example, “My Own True Love,” Maureen and Anthony, married 37 years.)
29
Another way to express the love you share: Create playlists of
favorite music from the early years of your relationship to use as the sentimental soundtrack during your cocktail hour. Sing out your love. After graciously thanking their parents and the friends who had introduced them, a groom serenaded his bride with “All of Me” by John Legend. The combination of her tears and laughter, his nerves and the knowledge of what had just come to fruition was magical for his bride and their guests.
30 31
Make your last dance of the evening as sweet as your first.
Invite your guests to surround you on the dance floor. Have someone pass around a basket of rose petals so your guests can shower you and your new hubby with the petals. Everyone will remember this final, loving moment.
FESTIVE MEALS
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Select a menu that incorporates items with romantic significance.
Consider dishes you shared on your first date, on the night you got engaged or the first meal you cooked for your groom (or he prepped for you). Go for big-time romance with your cake. Try a confection of strawberry mousse or one filled with raspberry, iced with buttercream and topped with fresh, deep-pink roses and pink orchids. For chocolate lovers: pink fondant icing and a cascade of sugar-paste pink and lavender roses that conceal layers of chocolate within! Don’t serve just any drinks. One bride and groom served beer from the brewery/restaurant where they first met, as well as specialty cocktails with monikers like “First Date.” With dessert, they offered the “Happily Ever After,” a tasty liqueur in a chocolate shot glass.
22
23 24
Consider serving a rose champagne (the pink tint comes
from a splash of pinot noir in the blend). If you’re offering similarly pink-hued foods, like lamb or salmon, you can even serve
25
the bubbly with the meal. Your first dance as husband and wife should be magical and memo-
rable. One bride wanted an a cappella
group of a dozen vocalists to sing her favorite ballad as she and her new husband took a turn around the dance floor. Maybe the two of you will want to show off your salsa moves with a hot number you’ve rehearsed. Choose your style!
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Have a gorgeous slide show.
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Up the romance of the first dance.
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Keep the romantic vibe going
Plan a super-romantic visual accompaniment to your first dance: a slide show presented on a large screen, featuring photographs of the two of you over the time you've been together. Ask your wedding planner to arrange for sparklers that burst from the centerpieces as you and your hubby take center stage.
strong all night. Before the big day, compile a list of your married guests’ firstdance songs. Ask your band or DJ to play those tunes throughout the night. Later,
TENDER TOUCHES
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Opt for a “sweetheart table.”
Many couples choose to sit at their own table during the reception. Not only do they get to enjoy each other as newlyweds, but the bridal party gets to sit with their significant others as well. No one wants to be separated from their sweetie at a wedding!
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Instead of an ordinary guest book,
create a “Romantic Wish Guest Book.” Ask guests to use their imaginations and pen a loving, personal hope for your future. During the cake cutting, some grooms offer their brides a special toast. This gives the groom a chance to express his feelings in a more personal way than the vows the two of you recited before the officiant at the ceremony.
34 35
Your groom might prefer creating a loving video tribute. It might fea-
ture a photo montage in which he describes the moment he fell in love with you. He can inject some humor—whatever helps him best express his tenderest emotions.
PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) KOMAN PHOTOGRAPHY; PEPPER NIX PHOTOGRAPHY; SINCLAIR & MOORE
to take the reins of an old-fashioned, horse-drawn carriage.
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PERFECT PLANNING ENSURE A GOOF-PROOF WEDDING WITH THESE EXPERT TIPS AND STRATEGIES. BY MARY CLARKE
Outdoors after dark If your warm-weather soirée will stretch into the night, you need to prepare for insects as well as a drop in temperature. Ask your venue to light citronella candles around the perimeter or lounge area. For one outdoor wedding, we had cute little buckets set up with day-into-evening essentials: sunscreen, bug spray, flip flops, hand-held paper fans, cold wet cloths and pashminas. —Andrea Freeman, founder & principal designer, Andrea Freeman Events
INADEQUATE TECHNICAL SUPPORT
There’s nothing worse than sitting through a ceremony you can’t hear—so be sure to book a sound system. Being able to hear the ceremony means your guests will actually be able to be in the moment right along with you. A wireless system ensures there will be no unsightly mic stands in your photos. —Michelle Cousins, owner & lead designer, Michelle Leo Events
PHOTOGRAPHY: B-FREED PHOTOGRAPHY/ B-FREEDWEDDINGS.COM
Obsessing It’s one thing to be detail-oriented, just don’t fall into overthinking every bit of minutiae. Obsessing over the types of mushrooms in the canapés or the precise order of the DJ’s playlist is a waste of time and good energy. — Marcy Blum, president, Marcy Blum Associates
Pre-ceremony prep Food may be the last thing on your mind, but if you start getting ready hours before your ceremony and pre-wedding photos, and then don’t grab a bite until cocktail hour that can be bad news. You want to have a little something in your system before the party starts so that your first cocktail doesn’t go straight to your head or worse. —Andrea Freeman
PLANNING BY COMMITTEE
Couples can lose themselves trying to please others, especially their parents. While it’s important to plan an event that makes everyone happy, it is your wedding and should reflect your style, personality and relationship. —Jove Meyer, owner + creative director, Jove Meyer Events
Putting the dress before the venue We always advise booking the wedding venue before dress shopping. Why? Because your dress should complement the environment. A ballgown with a huge train isn’t appropriate for those rustic barn or mountainside weddings (not only will it not look right, snags are inevitable and large trains get filthy in seconds). —Michelle Cousins
Budget blunders Don’t commit to a single thing for your wedding until you’ve set a budget. All too often, I see heartbroken couples who booked a venue that eats up 75% of their budget and then we have to tell them the photographer of their dreams is out of reach. Don’t just settle on some arbitrary number: Do your due diligence and cost research first so you can arrive at a budget that will work. Google is your friend here! —Kate Turner, founder, Kate + Co. Events Steer clear of dumping too much money into decor and not paying attention to the “experiential” elements such as enough service staff (especially bartenders), interesting music for the ceremony and cocktail hour, and decent wine. —Marcy Blum
Grass isn’t always your friend The best way to ensure you can dance the night away under a tent is to place a hard-surface floor over the grass. A simple solution like plywood is perfect: You will never notice it under all those dancing feet, but I guarantee you and your guests will be happy to feel it. —Bryan Rafanelli, founder + chief creative officer, Rafanelli Events
>> BRIDALGUIDE.COM Avoid the biggest wedding mistakes at bridalguide.com/mistakes
Venue selection Always book your venue before selecting your wedding date. Otherwise you run the risk of setting the date only to find the venue you had your heart set on isn’t available.—Michelle Cousins Booking a venue before you make your final guest list is a huge mistake. If you book a space that is too small, you will have to lower your guest count or possibly book another venue and lose the deposit of the one you booked prematurely. —Jove Meyer
Estimating RSVPs Many couples still believe that 20 percent of their guest list will RSVP regrets, but this is an outdated planning rule. Only invite the amount of people your venue and budget allow. Here in wine country, where 90% of our celebrations are destination weddings, almost everyone RSVPs with pleasure. So assume everyone will say yes—and plan accordingly. —Brittany Westerman, owner & creative director, Reed & James Events
NO RAIN PLAN
Weather is always a variable no matter the time of year. If you are thinking about an outdoor wedding, be prepared. Even if no rain has ever fallen on that day in that location in history— ever!—having a solid poor-weather plan almost guarantees you won’t need it. And that’s what makes the happiest day of all! —Bryan Rafanelli
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ask david
ADVICE
A MASTER PLAN Celebrations expert David Tutera takes on the to-do list.
Let the wedding planning begin! This should be one of the most enjoyable and creative processes you will ever experience. But many brides and grooms tell me they get so overwhelmed they feel as if they’ve taken on a second job they’ve had no training for. As for me, I started at 14, learning the craft of floral design while working at my grandfather’s flower shop. That’s where my journey began. I truly believe I was born to create parties. Here, some of the planning aspects I love most—and least. Get the more difficult wedding elements under control and the rest should fall into place.
THE PROS (what I ❤) • SETTING THE VISION Getting a chance to dive in and understand what a couple is all about is the important first step to a beautiful event. My television work has always made it seem as if a superspecific wedding theme is mandatory, but please trust me when I say it is not. However, I do love when a couple knows the types of looks, colors, feelings and moods they want for their wedding. Ask: What are your favorite colors, historic eras, flowers, seasons? The answers will help you better envision the overall look of your wedding.
• FLOWERS AND DECOR I love meeting with vendors in all areas from invitations to flowers, colors and lighting. Whether discussing invitations, color palettes or venues with my brides and grooms, I always envision the overall celebration. Flowers are forever key: A bride without a bouquet or a table without a centerpiece isn’t, to me, a wedding. Soft colors, bold colors or combinations thereof create an overall style or even evoke a period in time. These visual components can be the most pleasurable parts of planning.
• FOOD AND DRINK It’s great to use food to tell the story of your culture and background—this is something I always explore with my couples. Do take care, however, not to get on the full-on foodie bandwagon when planning your wedding, incorporating too many exotic ingredients that may make your guests uncomfortable. When it comes to beverages, specialty drinks have been a major trend but I am now loving specialty bars, such as whiskey, champagne and/or wine bars. Any of these options can make your wedding more unique.
• THE ELEMENT OF SURPRISE I love the chance to make special moments happen: perhaps a dance that no one knew about or changing up the timeline in a new way. I always say that something different should happen every 30 minutes. This allows guests to become interactive participants vs. inactive participants following the same old routine (ceremony to cocktails to dinner) and results in something special. This is what I will always love about doing weddings.
THE CONS (what I don’t ❤) • WHO’S INVITED? Determining the guest list can be a tough task, as can deciding on seating arrangements: who should sit next to whom. Once this gets set, the sailing becomes much smoother, I promise!
• DETAILS, DETAILS Picking the perfect songs for your processional, recessional, first dance and all of your important formalities (e.g. toasts) can be challenging, since these elements require a final, set-in-stone decision—you want to make sure everything is exactly as you want it. These all-important nitty-gritty details can be a chore, but they are essential to get right.
• TOO MANY COOKS You do not want a committee of opinions. Pick a few supportive friends and family members (three at the most) and trust in them to guide you and support you. The key word is support.
• TRAVEL LOGISTICS Coordinating travel details for all your wedding guests can be mind-numbing, not to mention time-consuming. Instead of being the point person for travel questions, I suggest finding a good travel agent ahead of time (especially if you’re having a destination wedding!) who can handle these issues. It will be worth it if it means having time you would otherwise lose to focus on the other important details of your day.
• OVERSHARING (especially on social media) One of my ground rules: Don’t forget that some parts of your wedding should be a surprise for your guests, so don’t spill too many details ahead of time!
budget guru
YOUR MONEY
AVOID HURT FEELINGS
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Remember that there are two sides of the family now: yours and his. If your own mom and dad offer to pay for half the wedding, you should run it by your future in-laws before you agree. Bruised feelings may result whenever people are put in a position to pay more or less than other people. The same goes for divorced parents—discuss the money question with both separately in order to see what each is comfortable with.
BUDGET WISELY
$
Are you thinking about approaching your parents for help with wedding expenses? Here, some essential advice from a financial pro.
MONEY’S A TOUGH ENOUGH SUBJECT TO BRING UP, BUT WITH TODAY’S
challenging economy, you may find yourself especially nervous about asking your parents and in-laws for help in paying for the wedding. We brought this predicament to financial pro Pam Krueger, author of The Moneytrack Method (John Wiley & Sons). Here, some sound advice.
AGREE TO AGREE
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Before saying anything to Mom and Dad, sit down with your fiancé and discuss your expectations. “Make sure you get to a point where you both agree on your vision and how much it will cost,” says Krueger. “This conversation will be the springboard for how you deal with money as a married couple.” Remember to listen to your guy and to make compromises. Be honest with each other about both families’ financial situations; you may find that you have to scale back on your original idea.
SAY IT RIGHT
$
Whether you speak to Mom and Dad by phone or in person, take care to be ultra polite and respectful, Krueger says. “Ask, ‘Do you feel comfortable making a contribution to the wedding?’ Then let them suggest what’s best for them.”
For example, they might propose a dollar amount or offer to pay for an aspect of the wedding, like the liquor.
BE SPECIFIC
$
Once money is offered and accepted, other issues arise. Will your parents assume that they’ll have more control than you’d like? You’ll have to be clear that the buck stops with you and your fiancé. At the same time, be aware that their contribution does mean that they’re involved. Let’s say that your mother wants to pay for food, but she insists that salmon be on the menu. Before agreeing, consider whether her agenda fits yours. Also, make sure they know that you’re asking for a gift, not a loan. “Don’t borrow money,” says Krueger. “You don’t want to start your marriage in debt. There are things—a car, a home—you’ll want to buy together as a couple.”
WHO PAYS FOR WHAT? TRADITIONAL The bride’s parents pay for the wedding, while the groom’s are responsible for some extras, perhaps the rehearsal dinner or the bar tab.
MODERN The couple pays for everything.
MODIFIED The tab is split three ways, among the bride’s parents, the groom’s parents and the couple themselves.
CUSTOM Contributing family members pay for a specific piece—or several pieces— of the wedding. For example, the bride’s parents might take on the reception and the groom’s parents could pay for the photographer and the entertainment.
PHOTOGRAPHY: ASHELY COOK PHOTOGRAPHY
THE MONEY TALK
Once you’ve accepted family contributions, create your wedding budget. “Your job as a couple is to stay on track,” says Krueger. “It wouldn’t be right to take money from your parents and then go over budget.” If you’re planning to save up money yourselves during your engagement, decide how much you can set aside each month and keep a running total as you go; for each couple this will be different. For extra motivation, keep your tally prominently displayed on your fridge. Krueger suggests using a debit card for wedding-related purchases, so that these costs are immediately deducted from your account, making it easier for you to stay on top of what you have left. If you spend a little extra on any one item, make sure to spend that much less somewhere else. ■
S I N CER I T Y B R I DA L .CO M
10
BUDGET BLUNDERS 1 2 STEER CLEAR OF THESE MAJOR NO NO’S TO KEEP YOUR SPENDING UNDER CONTROL.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, you don’t want to think priorities; you want to revel in dreams! Sorry, sister—if you don’t wake up, you’ll become mired in bills without really knowing why (um, who thought the Rolls-Royce rental was a good idea?!). THE SOLUTION: Start with a realistic overall budget (which will involve planning meetings with your fiancé). Then list, in order of “gotta have it,” your wedding details, says Debi Lilly, owner of A Perfect Event, in Chicago. “That way you can put your dollars on the higher priorities, and spend less on what isn’t so important.” One example: A foodie couple might prefer to host a fabulous dinner for 50 that includes wonderful wine, whereas a couple who loves a party might invite 100 or more for a simple buffet, and splurge on a hot band.
NOT READING THE FINE PRINT
Don’t skip reading anything, and if you have questions—no matter how seemingly insignificant—ask immediately. This is extra critical when it comes to clarifying payment terms. You want to know exactly when payments or balances are due; if there are any minimum charges, corkage fees for wine, cake-cutting fees—or any other possibly pricey unknowns. If your wedding is a year or more away, be sure to block in guaranteed prices on catering and liquor. THE SOLUTION: Never ever sign any contract on the spot; always take it home and read over everything, making note of any and all questions and concerns. If a vendor pressures you to sign, take that as your cue to move on to the next vendor. Nothing is so urgent that it can’t wait at least overnight.
PHOTOGRAPHY: OUR LABOR OF LOVE
NOT SETTING BUDGET PRIORITIES
3
LEAPING BEFORE YOU LOOK
You walk into the first reception venue on your list, fall in love and reach for the pen to write a deposit check. Sometimes that works fine. Other times, it doesn’t. A week later, you may hear about a place that costs less and offers more services. Then you have to cut from your budget in other areas. THE SOLUTION: Spend some time investigating. If you’re the spreadsheet type, go ahead and plug in details— cost, services, extras, terms—for every vendor you consider. Even if you end up going back to that love-atfirst-sight place, you know you did your due diligence.
4
FALLING PREY TO PEER PRESSURE
So you just went to a wedding that featured free-flowing champagne, lobster and filet mignon and a fabulous band. Stop right there—and refuse to try to keep up with those particular Joneses. Why? They may not have actually paid for all those bells and whistles (credit cards, anyone? wealthy parents, perhaps?). And anyway, even if they could afford to pay for every detail themselves, who says that will make them happy? More importantly, who says copying them will make you happy? THE SOLUTION: Repress the urge to impress other people, says Lilly. Imagine that you’re in a safe little bubble, where you’re unaffected by others’ choices. You’ll be more likely to stick to your budget.
5
GETTING STUCK ON “SHOULDS”
You must have pricey favors. You need napkins that match the fancy silk tablecloth overlays that, of course, you must have. But to quote the song, all you really need is love. (And a wedding license, right?) THE SOLUTION: Ask yourself, as you consider every extra detail, whether it will be something you’ll care about in the future. If you’re convinced you’ll be upset to think back on a wedding without a videographer, then by all means hire one.
But if you realize that looking back on a two-minute ride in a snazzy car is unlikely to mean much to you, feel free to skip it.
6
NOT KNOWING WHAT YOU BOTH WANT
Ever go food shopping, without a list, when you’ve skipped lunch? You probably spent too much on stuff you didn’t need. Same thing with weddings: When you’re unsure of what you want, you’re susceptible to sales pitches, to vendors pushing for more expensive choices, or to someone who insists you need, say, engraved invites. THE SOLUTION: Figure out what you really—really—must have. After that, financial decisions come easier.
7
9
NOT THINKING CREATIVELY
Let’s say your sister chose to have dozens of long-stemmed red roses in tall crystal vases on every table at her reception. Must you follow suit—especially since you know full well that this option is rather pricey? Maybe it isn’t the best idea. While doing exactly what your sister did may be safe, it probably isn’t economical. THE SOLUTION: Be imaginative. What if, instead of the red roses, you chose local blooms? Or what if you asked a florist to create one centerpiece that you and your friends can use as a template for making the rest yourselves? You’ll save lots on the labor that the florist would have to put in.
LETTING YOUR GUEST LIST GET THE BEST OF YOU
You may feel you’re being generous when you extend the invite to your entire office or to peripheral plus-ones, but you won’t feel quite so expansive when you’ve strained your budget to the breaking point. THE SOLUTION: Start by figuring out how many guests you can actually afford. Then make your initial “A” list, dividing it into columns detailing your own guests, your groom’s and your parents’. Now comes the hard part, where you have everyone chop names from their “A” lists to create a “B” list. Make sure to order extra invitations and reply cards and send these after the initial RSVPs come in and you know you’ll have space for some of the “B” listers. You may be able to invite a few people that you cut from the original list—without breaking the budget.
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STUFFING YOUR GUESTS
We get it: You’re so afraid that your wedding will be the one where guests go home hungry or unhappy that you overorder food or try to dazzle everyone with a seven-course dinner extravaganza rather than a more modest but perfectly adequate two. Rest assured, no one at your wedding will starve: “A reputable catering company will never underestimate how much food you’ll need,” says Lilly. And keep in mind that the more menu choices you offer, the higher the cost. THE SOLUTION: “Always be sure to tell your caterer what your budget is, and what kinds of food you want to include in the meal, and then let her work her magic within the parameters you give her,” says Lilly. “Remember, you’re paying for the wealth of her expertise, so trust her to do the job right!”
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TRYING TO DO IT ALL
Attempting to handle every last detail yourself can end up costing you because you simply don’t have time to research the most economical choices. THE SOLUTION: Enlist help. Though wedding planners come with their own costs, hiring one might save you money. Another way to share the work and save money? Delegate jobs to friends and family—you may be surprised at the fine options they come up with. Also, many brides who have talented friends ask for their help with decorating, invitations or flowers. People are usually happy to pitch in and contribute to the success of a friend’s big day. n
>> BRIDALGUIDE.COM Keep your budget under control with the tips at bridalguide.com/budget
FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY: TERRY DOYLE. HAIR & MAKEUP: MICHIKO BOORBERG USING ORIBE HAIR CARE FOR BRYAN BANTRY
& STYLE
sheer magic Play a modern-day princess and float down the aisle in a romantic, light-as-air gown. Then check out the latest fashions gracing the bridal runway.
Strapless midi ballgown with allover cotton lace florals and Swarovski crystal-beaded bodice, about $6,325, by EisenStein; eisen-stein.com. Blush fingertip veil with beaded trim by Bel Aire Bridal; belairebridal. com. Blush floral earrings by Ines x Ciner; inesdisanto.com. 000
FULL VOLUME
Strapless tulle ballgown with ruched bodice and textured ruffled skirt, about $3,595, by Marchesa Notte; marchesa.com. Gold hoop earrings with pearls by BHLDN; bhldn.com. Pink choker styled as a belt by Of Rare Origin; ofrareorigin.com.
Evoke a lightness of being sure to bring you a higher love in one of these dream-worthy gowns layered with airy tulle and chiffon, and detailed with stunning lacework. PHOTOGRAPHY BY TERRY DOYLE
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TIERS OF JOY
Long-sleeve, A-line gown with Guipure lace bodice and tiered tulle skirt, price upon request, by Viktor&Rolf Mariage; viktor-rolf.com. Floral earrings, similar styles can be found at Jennifer Behr; jenniferbehr.com. Beaded necklace styled as a belt by Of Rare Origin; ofrareorigin.com. Blue hair-bow barrette styled as a belt embellishment by BHLDN; bhldn.com. Engagement ring by Vow by Ring Concierge; ringconcierge.com. Tulle backdrop by LaMorA Invitations; etsy.com/shop/ lamorainvitations
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STATE OF LACE
TERRY DOYLE
Illusion long-sleeve gown with plunging-V neckline, beaded floral embellishments, and detachable tulle overskirt, about $1,399, by Galina Signature Collection exclusively at David’s Bridal; davidsbridal.com. Feather earrings by Ranjana Khan; ranjanakhan.com. Engagement ring by Vow by Ring Concierge; ringconcierge.com. Tulle anklets by Grace Loves Lace; graceloveslace.com. Pearlaccented heels by Bella Belle Shoes; bellabelleshoes.com.
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SITTING PRETTY
Floor-length silk chiffon gown with blouson sleeves and waist cutouts, about $2,550, by L. Wells Bridal; lwellsbridal.com. Earrings by Ines x Ciner; inesdisanto.com. Engagement ring by Vow by Ring Concierge; ringconcierge.com. Lace-up heeled booties by Bella Belle Shoes; bellabelleshoes.com. Tulle backdrop by LaMorA Invitations; etsy.com/shop/ lamorainvitations
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DAYDREAMER
Tulle and silk georgette A-line gown with beaded floral silk organza appliquĂŠs and flutter sleeves, about $4,390, by Ines by Ines Di Santo; inesdisanto.com. Blush floral earrings by Ines x Ciner; inesdisanto.com. Engagement ring by Vow by Ring Concierge; ringconcierge.com.
This story was photographed at Industry City’s event space, Five Two A. Set on the second floor of the industrial-chic complex, this 10,000 sq. ft. venue has waterfront views with sight lines of the Statue of Liberty and downtown Manhattan. The space is framed by two large courtyards and is part of an interactive and vibrant campus with ample open space. Its clean design lends itself to celebratory events from weddings to private parties, corporate and experiential events, art shows, photo shoots, and beyond. For event inquiries email events@industrycity.com. Visit them on IG @industrycity or industrycity.com. 000
SHEER THING
Strapless midi ballgown with allover cotton lace florals and Swarovski crystal-beaded bodice, about $6,325, by Eisen-Stein; eisen-stein.com. Blush fingertip veil by Bel Aire Bridal; belairebridal.com. Earrings by Ines x Ciner; inesdisanto.com. Engagement ring by Vow by Ring Concierge; ringconcierge. com. Tulle socks by Grace Loves Lace; graceloveslace. com. Floral blush heels by Bella Belle Shoes; bellabelleshoes.com. Tulle backdrop by LaMorA Invitations; etsy.com/shop/ lamorainvitations STYLING: Kate Watson TEXT: Kayla Hayes ART DIRECTOR: Mary Cate Godfrey
TERRY DOYLE
HAIR & MAKEUP: Michiko Boorberg using Oribe Hair Care for Bryan Bantry
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RUNWAY REPORT
LELA ROSE
SQUARE OFF Trending now: square-shaped necklines that lend a modern vibe to any silhouette.
CAROLINE CASTIGLIANO
SOTTERO & MIDGLEY
AURORA COLLECTION
Chic, sexy peek-a-boo cut-outs up the wow factor. VIKTOR & ROLF
DAALARNA
MAKE THE CUT
CAROL HANNAH
CUSHNIE
JUSTIN ALEXANDER
WHISTLES
The new-season gowns herald in an abundance of stunning style options from gowns with detachable overskirts to dresses with evocative cut-outs and striking geometric details.
PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF DESIGNERS
SKIRT THE ISSUE
Sheer, detachable overskirts give your gown a double dose of flair.
NAEEM KHAN
MARCHESA NOTTE
EVE OF MILADY COUTURE COLLECTION
VIKTOR & ROLF
VERDIN BRIDAL
TADASHI
MAGGIE SOTTERO
LUCIA BY ALLISON WEBB
SAVANNAH MILLER
ROLAND MOURET
CLASS ACT Geometric designs on gowns, bodices and trains guarantee A+ style.
wedding album
REAL COUPLES
grand summit Afton Robertson and Colin Kanne hosted a luxurious, Art Deco style celebration in the mountainous hills of Utah. PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAMERON CLARK
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1. Scenic mountain views surround St. Mary's church. 2. Afton's dog, Stella, wears her own mini-me attire. 3. Bridesmaids are bedecked in beaded burgundy dresses. 4. The ring bearer dutifully proceeds up the flowerbedecked aisle.
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fter five years of dating, Afton happily accepted Colin’s marriage proposal as they stood in front of their hometown of Philadelphia’s City Hall. Afterward they went to her favorite restaurant, Talula’s Garden, with their siblings to celebrate. Afton, a buyer for Free People and Colin, a medical sales representative, spent the next year and a half planning their autumn nuptials with the help of planner Michelle Leo Events. They decided to hold the ceremony at St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the reception at St. Regis Deer Valley in Park City, Utah. “I grew up skiing there and my family has been going to Deer Valley for as long as I can remember,” the bride said. “It’s like a second home to me.” Her masterfully embellished Zuhair Murad gown inspired the entire event’s graphic Art Deco theme, best reflected in the reception’s grand dance floor where the party truly came alive. Overall, the couple described their wedding day as, “The most spectacular and loving party we will ever attend.” —Anna Smutny and Kate Watson
wedding album
REAL COUPLES
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1. The bordeaux and gold table decor featured a lavish floral runner, Art Deco-style menus and escort cards by Ceci New York and glass-enclosed tapers. 2. The flower girl wears a pretty floral wreath fastened with burgundy ribbon. 3. A white vintage car provided the couple’s big-day transportation. 4. A glass tent housed the sunlit reception area to stunning effect. 3
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1. The couple strolls hand-inhand in Park City, Utah. 2. The sunglassed groomsmen gather for the festivities. 3. The floral-topped, five-tier white almond wedding cake with buttercream frosting featured the couple's monogram and gilded floral details. 4. Donuts were an added sweet treat. 5. Tasty fries: Always a guest favorite. 6. Lavish floral decor included centerpieces of burgundy peonies and dahlias, quicksand roses, blush Italian ranunculus and plum mini callas with bits of chocolate lace.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: CAMERON CLARK
Personal Touches • “I wore my mother’s diamond necklace and earrings which I always wanted to wear on my wedding day.” • “One of my friends, a designer, made my dog Stella a little wedding dress, and honestly those are some of my favorite photos!”
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LIKE NO OTHER WEDDING SHOW IN THE WORLD
FREE WEDDING RINGS for the first 50 couples who register and attend a show! Plus FREE $200 GIFT CARD for EVERYONE who registers and attends a show. AN $850 VALUE!!
Rings courtesy of JVL Jewelers.
EVERY COUPLE that REGISTERS and ATTENDS will receive a gift card. A $200 VALUE!!
Bring your future spouse, a friend, and anyone involved in planning your wedding, and join us for a wedding show like no other. Great Bridal Expo is a fun, exciting, hands-on way to get great information to help you plan for your wedding, honeymoon and home!
• Conveniently located at upscale venues • Knowledgeable exhibitors • Contests & prizes & fun! • Free samples and huge show specials • Stunning one-of-a-kind, NY-style fashion show
COMING TO A CITY NEAR YOU ATLANTA Sunday, January 31, 2021 • 12:00 pm Sunday, October 10, 2021 • 12:00 pm
HOUSTON Saturday, February 20, 2021 • 12:00 pm Saturday, October 23, 2021 • 12:00 pm
grand hyatt atlanta in buckhead
hyatt regency houston
BALTIMORE Sunday, September 19, 2021 • 12:00 pm Spring 2022 date TBA
LOS ANGELES Sunday, February 28, 2021 • 12:00 pm Sunday, November 21, 2021 • 12:00 pm
hyatt regency inner harbor
hyatt regency los angeles int’l airport
BOSTON Sunday, January 24, 2021 • 12:00 pm Sunday, October 3, 2021 • 12:00 pm
MIAMI Sunday, February 7, 2021 • 12:00 pm Sunday, October 17, 2021 • 12:00 pm
the westin boston waterfront
bonaventure resort & spa
DALLAS Sunday, February 21, 2021 • 12:00 pm Sunday, October 24, 2021 • 12:00 pm
NEW YORK CITY Wednesday, March 24, 2021 • 5:30 pm Spring 2022 date TBA
hyatt regency dallas
new york marriott marquis
DENVER Sunday, March 14, 2021 • 12:00 pm Sunday, October 31, 2021 • 12:00 pm hyatt regency denver tech center
PHOENIX Sunday, February 14, 2021 • 12:00 pm Sunday, November 7, 2021 • 12:00 pm phoenix convention center
FT. LAUDERDALE Sunday, February 7, 2021 • 12:00 pm Sunday, October 17, 2021 • 12:00 pm
SAN JOSE Sunday, March 7, 2021 • 12:00 pm Sunday, November 14, 2021 • 12:00 pm
bonaventure resort & spa
fairmont san jose
*dates and locations subject to change.
WASHINGTON, DC Sunday, September 26, 2021 • 12:00 pm Spring 2022 date TBA
ADMIT ONE
ADMIT ONE
BUY ONE TICKET GET ONE FREE Great Bridal Expo is like no other bridal show in the world. And we’ll prove it. BUY
ONE TICKET, GET ONE FREE when you enter coupon code BGPBOGO at checkout on www.GreatBridalExpo.com
hilton alexandria at mark center
Tickets are $10.00 pre-registered online & $15.00 at the door if available.
www.GreatBridalExpo.com | 800.422.3976 Exhibitor & sponsorship opportunities available. Call to learn more!
sponsored by:
Sweepstakes
YourLITTLE WHITE BOOK
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WIN a Honeymoon in Arizona! Request information from our preferred vendors and you’ll be automatically entered to WIN a five-night stay at Tanque Verde Ranch in Tucson. Tanque Verde Ranch is one of America’s old-time cattle and guest ranches offering plush accommodations, amazing dining, unparalleled amenities and a vast array of exciting activities. The prize includes lodging with three meals daily, horseback trail riding and lessons, scheduled breakfast rides and cowboy cookouts, mountain biking, fishing, guided hikes, nature programs, yoga and more.
tanqueverderanch.com
Sweepstakes sponsored by Bridal Guide, New Rochelle, NY. Dates of entry: January 19, 2021 through March 15, 2021. Open to any legal resident of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia who is 18 years or older, except where prohibited by law. For complete Official Rules see opposite page.
Go to bridalguide.com/getinfo to get FREE information from these Bridal Guide preferred vendors for your wedding, your home and your honeymoon. YOUR WEDDING
YOUR HOME
990. Send all information for gowns/formalwear/accessories.
991. Send all information for china/crystal/ giftware.
GOWNS/FORMALWEAR/ACCESSORIES
CHINA/CRYSTAL/GIFTWARE
100. Adrianna Papell Platinum combines the elegance, sophistication and exclusivity of Adrianna Papell with the reputation of House of Wu. houseofwu.com/adriannapapellplatinum/
105. Denby USA Limited Designed for living, built to last. Denby prides itself on the strength and quality of their stoneware that has been produced in England for 200 years. 1-800-DENBY-4U. denbyusa.com
101. Christina Wu Brides dresses brides with dreamy wedding gowns that are crafted to perfection, with decadent beading and luxurious fabrics. houseofwu.com/christinawu 102. Christina Wu Celebration features an eclectic variety of designs that are fashionforward, adorned with feminine details, and effortlessly wearable from day to night. houseofwu.com/storelocator/ 103. House of Wu carries 19 designer labels, each catering to a specific niche, including bridal, bridesmaids, mother-of-the-bride, prom, pageant, and quinceanera. houseofwu.com 104. Justin Alexander Signature Focusing on opulence and drama, the collection is designed for the modern bride seeking a wedding dress that expresses her lavish and on-trend sense of style. justinalexander.com/signature
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ANTIGUA 109. Sandals Grande Antigua Sophisticated travelers are lured to Dickinson Bay where the famous beach at Sandals Grande Antigua is renowned for its calm, crystal-clear water. 1-800-SANDALS. sandals.com
BAHAMAS
106. The Homer Laughlin China Company Fiesta Dinnerware, an American icon, proudly sustainable and made in the USA. Available in over 85 items and 15 vivid colors. Lead free, microwave, oven and dishwasher safe. fiestafactorydirect.com
110. Sandals Royal Bahamian in colonial Nassau, and Sandals Emerald Bay in the Exumas, are close to home, yet far from the ordinary. 1-800-SANDALS. sandals.com
107. Lenox offers exquisite choices for today’s brides, from fine bone china and casual dinnerware to extensive collections of stemware, flatware, and wedding collectibles. lenox.com/dining
111. Sandals Barbados where exclusive is always inclusive, is now joined by Sandals Royal Barbados. Stay at one, play at both! 1-800-SANDALS. sandals.com
108. Noritake For over 100 years Noritake has been a leader in designing and manufacturing high-quality tableware. Choose from an extensive array of designs and styles. noritakechina.com
GRENADA
YOUR HONEYMOON/ DESTINATION WEDDING 992. Send all information for planning my honeymoon to the Caribbean or Mexico.
BARBADOS
112. Sandals Grenada located on the island’s best beach, defies every convention of traditional design to bring you the Sandals of tomorrow, today. 1-800-SANDALS. sandals.com
JAMAICA 113. Beaches Resorts are the world’s #1 allinclusive family resorts where everything’s included for all guests. Generation Everyone. Also
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115. Classic Vacations and Puerto VallartaRiviera Nayarit For over 42 years, Classic Vacations has been the premier travel wholesaler working exclusively with Travel Advisors. classicvacations.com 116. Excellence Resorts Set the stage for unforgettable destination weddings. Choose from three wedding packages so you can say “I do” alongside the Caribbean Sea. excellenceresorts.com 117. The All Inclusive Hard Rock Hotels We’ve crafted our wedding inspirations to both perfectly accent our beautiful venues and to be fully customizable. Available at all 5 locations. hrhweddings.com 118. Haven Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa is an exclusive adults-only, all-suite, all-inclusive beachfront resort offering guests a wide range of personal services and luxurious amenities. havenresorts.com
SAINT LUCIA 119. Sandals Resorts Stay at one of the Sandals in Saint Lucia and play at all three—Sandals Halcyon Beach, Sandals Grande St. Lucian or Sandals Regency La Toc. 1-800-SANDALS. sandals.com 120. Saint Lucia Lauded by the World Travel Awards as the World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination, boasting some of the finest romance settings, and providing a lifetime of cherished memories. stlucia.org
TURKS & CAICOS 121. The Sands at Grace Bay Sapphire sea, white powder beach and gracious suites. The Sands at Grace Bay is the perfect prelude to the rest of your life. thesandstc.com
UNITED STATES FLORIDA 122. The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel The words “I do” come naturally on The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel. Live the day of your dreams on warm white sands. fortmyers-sanibel.com /weddings 123. Visit South Walton Say “I do” on South Walton’s sugar-white sand beaches, just steps from turquoise water. It’s so effortless; your honeymoon starts before your wedding ends. visitsouthwalton.com/weddings
GEORGIA 124. Golden Isles is a magical setting for any coastal wedding. Breathtaking beaches, historic churches and picturesque landmarks create the atmosphere of a bygone era filled with romance. goldenisles.com
NORTH CAROLINA 125. North Carolina’s Crystal Coast To find out everything the Crystal Coast has to offer couples seeking a destination wedding and unforgettable honeymoon, visit crystalcoastnc.org.
2. The Sweepstakes runs from 12:01 PM Eastern Time on January 19, 2020 through 11:59 AM Eastern Time on March 15, 2021. To enter, complete the order form at bridalguide. com/getinfo, or print your name, street address, daytime telephone number, mobile phone number, email, wedding date and the words "Tanque Verde MA21" on a 3" x 5" plain index card and mail to: Bridal Guide, P.O. Box 413050, Naples, FL 34101-3050. Only one entry per household. Entries must be received by March 15, 2021 and become the property of Bridal Guide, who assumes no responsibility for illegible, late, misdirected or lost entries. 3. One grand prize winner will be selected in a random drawing the week of February 1, 2021, under the supervision of Bridal Guide, whose sole decision will be final. By accepting the prize, winner and travel companion agree to release Bridal Guide, RFP Corp., Tanque Verde Ranch, Cote Family Companies and their affiliates, agents and employees from any and all liability, claims, injuries, actions or proceedings arising out of and/ or sustained in connection with use, acceptance or possession of prize. Potential winner will be notified by email. If a potential winner cannot be contacted, does not respond within 5 days from the date the Sponsor first tries to notify him/her, and/or the prize or prize notification is returned as undeliverable, such potential winner forfeits all rights to win the Sweepstakes or receive the prize, and an alternate potential winner may be selected. Potential winner and guest will be required to sign Bridal Guide's Affidavit of Eligibility and Liability within 14 days of notification, or prize will be forfeited and an alternate winner may be chosen. Original Affidavits must be notarized and mailed to: Bridal Guide, ATT: MA21 LWB Sweepstakes, 1333A North Avenue #706, New Rochelle, NY 10804. A copy of the Bridal Guide Affidavit of Eligibility may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope (VT residents may omit postage) to Bridal Guide, ATT: MA21 LWB Affidavit, 1333A North Avenue #706, New Rochelle, NY 10804. The number of eligible entries received will determine odds of winning. Limit one prize per family or household. If through a printing, production or other error more winners are notified than the rules state, the actual number of such winners, per the rules, will be selected in a random drawing from among those notified. Bridal Guide, RFP Corp., Tanque Verde Ranch, and Cote Family Companies make no warranties with regard to any prize. Prize is nontransferable by winner, has no cash value, and cannot be redeemed for cash. There are no substitutions for prize or changes to available dates.
DANIELLE COONS PHOTOGRAPHY
MEXICO
1. The Sweepstakes is open to any legal resident of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia who is 18 years or older except where prohibited by law. Employees of Bridal Guide, RFP Corp., Tanque Verde Ranch, Cote Family Companies and any and all of their related companies and corporate suppliers are not eligible. Sweepstakes void where prohibited by law. All federal, state and local laws apply. Winners agree to publication and/or display of their name, likeness and entry form to be made at the discretion of Bridal Guide without further compensation. Participants are subject to official rules.
200+ Rustic Ideas Save
CALLI B PHOTOGRAPHY
114. Sandals Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Royal Caribbean, Sandals Negril, Sandals South Coast, Sandals Ochi Beach and Sandals Royal Plantation, Jamaica’s only five-star Luxury Included® Resorts. 1-800-SANDALS. sandals.com
BRIDAL GUIDE YOUR LITTLE WHITE BOOK SWEEPSTAKES OFFICIAL RULES (NO PURCHASE NECESSARY) Sponsored by Bridal Guide, New Rochelle, NY. Entries must be received by March 15, 2021.
800+ Bouquets
4. Grand Prize: 5-night all-inclusive stay at Tanque Verde Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, including lodging with 3 meals daily, horseback trail riding and lessons, scheduled breakfast rides and cowboy cookouts, mountain biking, fishing, guided hikes, nature programs, yoga and more. Estimated ARV $3,300. 5. The Grand Prize winner will be responsible for the following: Roundtrip airfare and airport transfers, airport taxes, any and all local, state and/or federal taxes, ground transportation, food and beverages, tours, gratuities, personal expenses and any other expenses not specified as part of the prize. Amendments to confirmed travel arrangements may result in forfeiture of trip or administrative fees. Winner will be issued an IRS 1099 form for prize value.
DANIELLE COONS PHOTOGRAPHY
#1 for destination weddings and honeymoons. 1-800-BEACHES. beaches.com
6. Travel can be taken through December 20, 2022. No extension will be given after the prize has expired. Package inclusions may be subject to change. Accommodations are based on availability at time of booking and are subject to blackout dates which include but may not be limited to: 2021: March 1- April 10, November 24 - 27, December 21- 31. 2022: January 1, March 1 - April 10, November 24 - 27. 7. Entrants agree that by entering the Promotion, they agree to add their contact information to the Bridal Guide and Tanque Verde Ranch mailing lists, subject to Entrant’s right to thereafter opt out or unsubscribe to such lists at any time. 8. The name of the winner may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope after April 5, 2021 to Bridal Guide, ATT: MA21 LWB Winner, 1333A North Avenue #706, New Rochelle, NY 10804. Requests for winner must be received by June 30, 2021.
800+ Wedding Cakes pinterest.com /bridalguide
MARCH/APRIL 2021
& Destination Wedding Guide
Where to go in 2021 FIND YOUR PERFECT PARADISE AT ONE OF OUR FAVORITE PLACES IN THE SUN
HOT OFF THE PRESS!
SNEAK A PEEK AT THIS COOL NEW PROPERTY
SKY HIGH
CHECK OUT THIS ULTRA-CHIC CITY CEREMONY PG 10
Escape to a Private Island Resort
HONEYMOON Bridal Guide March/April 2021
& DESTINATION WEDDING GUIDE
YOUR HONEYMOON 4 RESORT ROUNDUP
Talk about coastal elites—we found the best beaches on America’s shores.
8 WEDDINGS AWAY
Rhode Island, the smallest state, has an excellent array of Big Day offerings
10 REAL DESTINATION WEDDING
This cool couple shared NYC’s best borough with their international guests.
17 REAL DESTINATION HONEYMOON
Go far-flung and far away on this fantasy island honeymoon in Indonesia.
20 FIRST LOOK
17
Check out the River House at Odette’s, Bucks County, PA’s newest hot spot.
Indonesia
10
Brooklyn
8
Rhode Island
Cover image courtesy of Sandals ® South Coast in Jamaica, a luxury all-inclusive resort featuring over-the-water bungalows and chapel.
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South Carolina
For more information on Sandals Destination Weddings & Honeymoons, visit sandals.com/weddingmoons.
Worry-free
Destination Weddings
&HONEYMOONS
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 r t s
O n
The destination wedding of your dreams awaits at Sandals ®, because as the resorts made for love, we leave nothing to chance on your special day or the honeymoon that follows. With our Platinum Protocol of Cleanliness, you can begin your happily-ever-after with the peace of mind of knowing that your health and safety are our top priority. While you create a thousand worry-free moments, we take care of the rest. And when you don’t have to worry about a thing, every moment becomes a celebration of love.
At Sandals, we’re taking every step to make sure every wedding is free of worries and filled with love. In addition to our Platinum Protocol of Cleanliness, here are the steps we’re taking: SHARE THE SPECIAL DAY VIRTUALLY
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Free Sandals F ree Tropical Includes: Wedding Include s:
To ensure no cross-contamination, SONAL US ER personal use makeup kits will be used for all brides and bridal parties who choose Red Lane® Spa to help JUST FOR them get a picture-perfect look. ME M S These makeup kits can be taken home AK E U P K IT afterwards*.
• • • •
CEREMONY BOUQUET & BOUTONNIÈRE RECEPTION DÉCOR WEDDING CAKE
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PERSONAL USE MAKEUP KITS E
with a 3-Night Stay or longer *
T h e
AB
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PER TABLE
&
Free* Tropical Wedding
Rather than tables set for eight people, the same sized tables will only seat six guests. We’ve eliminated buffets and specialty food stations to reduce the risk of cross-contamination. Plated dinners and all hors d’ouvres will be served by Sandals staff.
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You can have a
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We’ve reduced the capacity of all our venues, indoors and out, putting more physical distance between wedding guests.
R E M O NY
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For a limited time, Sandals is offering complimentary* single-camera live stream service for wedding ceremonies so that couples can still share their wedding with those unable to travel at this time.
P l a n e t
Voted World’s Best 25 Years in Row At the World Travel Awards
SANDALS.COM/WEDDINGS • 1-877-SANDALS Or Call Your Travel Advisor JAMAICA • ANTIGUA • SAINT LUCIA • BAHAMAS • GRENADA • BARBADOS *Visit www.sandals.com/disclaimers/bridalguidemarapr2021san or call 1-800-SANDALS. Sandals® is a registered trademark. Unique Vacations, Inc. is an affiliate of Unique Travel Corp., the worldwide representative of Sandals Resorts.
@ sandalsresortsweddings
RESORT ROUNDUP
SURFIN’ USA FROM SEA TO SHINING SEA, WE’VE ROUNDED UP OUR FAVORITE BEACHES UNDER THE SUN. by Jenna Mahoney
Bungalows Key Largo Repose and indulge at an all-inclusive paradise right here in the U.S.A. when you check into this intimate hotel in the photogenic Florida Keys. The collection of 135 low-slung individual cottages spread across 12 bougainvillea-laced acres offers exclusive access to some of America’s most pristine sands as well as two boats with tiki bars. Each of the accommodations is a private tropical getaway haven complete with oversize soaking tubs, outdoor showers and a pair of beach cruisers to explore the foliage-rich property (room rates start at $1,189 a night and are all inclusive. There’s a two-night minimum stay; bungalowskeylargo.com).
Daufuskie Island
Haig Point Lighthouse off the coast of South Carolina.
Talk about an exclusive hideaway—this island just off the coast of South Carolina is just five by two and a half miles, and residents get to traverse the white-sand fringed expanse via golf cart, horseback, bike or foot. The charming Haig Point Lighthouse, a classic site that has stood proudly on the island since 1873, is a favorite place to host weddings; it’s also an intimate hotel for just four guests. Note: It’s said to be home to a brokenhearted ghost—the daughter of the first lighthouse keeper. Island activities include beaching, golfing and tours of art galleries in the historic little town (room rates start at $424 a night; haigpoint.com).
FUN FACT: Revere Beach in Massachusetts was the first public beach in the United States. It opened in 1869. The states of Oregon and Hawaii dictate that all beaches are accessible to the public.
High camp in California.
Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground Only-in-Cali kitsch meets glam at this old-school meets high-end campsite north of Santa Barbara. The property, which is perfectly planned for social distancing and is just 15 minutes from some of the state’s best surfing spots, houses a variety of accommodations including individually appointed Airstreams, vintage trailers, surf-inspired cabins and safari tents. Since the property sits adjacent to Los Padres National Forest, guests hike, bike and generally explore the untouched wilderness during their stay. A favorite path winds to a hot spring (room rates start at $200 a night; highwaywestvacations.com).
PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) BUNGALOWS KEY LARGO; FLYING FLAGS RV RESORT & CAMPGROUND; CAROLINA HILTY PHOTOGRAPHY
Tropical delight in the Florida Keys.
Lanai’s Sweetheart Rock is steps from the Four Seasons.
FOUR SEASONS LANAI In Maui county, Hawaii there’s a magical little island that was once entirely a pineapple plantation. Today, this fantasy-on-earth welcomes visitors in search of a quiet place to enjoy Hawaii’s wonders. Hulopo’e Bay, a nature preserve that fronts the Four Seasons Lanai, is such a place that’s home to an honest-to-goodness kaleidoscope of tropical fish. In the mornings and evenings, Spinner dolphins come to the golden cove. And in season, it’s common to see humpback whales. The 231-room hotel offers all sorts of viewing points, including the Nobu restaurant with a widestone lanai, the lush grounds punctuated by tropical plantings and the comfort of your uber-posh guest room (room rates start at $1,105 a night; fourseasons.com).
PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) FOUR SEASONS LANAI; THE REEDS AT SHELTER HAVEN; SHUTTERS ON THE BEACH; IMAGES COURTESY OF FREDRIKA STJARNE FOR SHOU SUGI BAN HOUSE
Ohm away in the Hamptons.
There’s a reason the Hamptons—a collection of beach towns on New York’s Long Island—are so star-studded. The actual strands of sands are cinematic in their beauty. They are wide and golden, the ocean is at once calm and ripe for surfers, and then there are the dunes that tower and in some spots meet the pine-scrubbed interior landscape. While the celebrity factor makes for a buzzy scene, there are pockets of pure zen throughout the region. One such spot is this new sanctuary that specializes in wellness. The spa is the centerpoint of the property, which showcases a Japanese design ethos. Programming includes guided meditations and hikes along with beach picnics provided by Michelin-star chefs (room rates start at $1,240 a night; shousugibanhouse.com).
The Reeds at Shelter Haven
Sunny side up
in New Jersey. The Jersey Shore—at one time synonymous with meatballs, spray tans, high hair and an overabundance of day drinking—is actually a charming expanse of pristine sands framed by seagrass dotted dunes. This more than 100-year-old property sits on one of the prettiest parts of the shore— Stone Harbor. Amenities at the beachy-chic 58-room hideaway include all the expected seaside amenities—umbrellas, loungers, dedicated attendants and boat docking—as well as a rooftop pavilion, plunge pool and daily yoga (room rates start at $550 a night; reedsatshelterhaven.com).
Star-struck at Santa Monica.
SHUTTERS ON THE BEACH There is perhaps no beach that’s more recognizable on film than that of Santa Monica, just to the west of Los Angeles. In addition to the romantic long strand, there’s the screen favorite—the pier, home to a small amusement park, numerous concessions and myriad spots for enjoying the cinematic view. For a decidedly LA experience, stay at this celeb magnet positioned right on the beach. The vibe is breezy and beachy thanks to the Cape Cod style design with pops of blue details. This being a Hollywood hangout, all the food and spa treatments are organic (room rates start at $495 a night; shuttersonthebeach.com). ¢
CAPTION HERE
Shou Sugi Ban House
FUN FACT: The first beach area for recreation opened in England in the 1720s. The draw included spa and wellness amenities for the aristocracy.
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WEDDINGS AWAY
The Ocean House.
cr-courtesy of Jamaica Inn
Legally Wedded Marriage licenses are required in the state of Rhode Island. Couples must apply in person of to Jamaica at the city or town clerk’s officecr-courtesy and be able furnishInn proof of age and marital status. There are no blood tests or waiting periods. Licenses are valid for three months. Weddings must be attended by two witnesses and marriages need to be officially registered.
The Chanler at Cliff Walk.
Gurney’s Newport.
The Preserve Sporting Club.
RHODE ISLAND In every issue, we scout a spot that’s perfect for tying the knot away from home. by Jenna Mahoney
A
s the smallest state, Rhode Island, with its pretty beaches, excellent seafood shacks and historic mansions, doesn’t get as much of the glory as its bigger beach resort neighbors—The Hamptons and Cape Cod. And that’s what makes it so special. Offerings here are less crowded than those other names. Add the only-in-Little Rhody Gilded Age ocean-facing grand homes and you’ve got a great place to wed. Here, some of our favorite hotels to host your big day.
THE CHANLER AT CLIFF WALK
OCEAN HOUSE
Elevated both figuratively—the bespoke design of each guestroom is of special note—and literally—the mansion property is perched over the famed Cliff Walk, which hugs the coast and the oversize gardens of some of Newport’s most revered buildings—this retreat checks all of the glamorous couple’s big day boxes. Celebrations here showcase all of the property’s spectacular offerings from the sparkling setting to the exquisite cuisine. Outdoor ceremony spots include the Cliff Lawn, overlooking the eponymous site; Meadow Lawn, with ocean and mansion vistas; and the secluded Woodland Lawn with its fairy-tale vibe (wedding packages start at $12,000 and include ceremony; thechanler.com).
This stately beachfront property has been hosting guests since the beginning of the century. And has been doing so with such detailed service, excellent cuisine (locally sourced or grown on site) and such sumptuous accommodations that the oceanfront grand dame in Westerly is arguably Rhode Island’s most luxurious hotel. Weddings here are a celebration of the historic property packaged with an innate sense of luxury. Micro weddings are held in the herb garden, which affords excellent ocean views (wedding packages start at $3,500 for up to 10 guests and include an officiant, a bouquet and boutonnière, champagne toast and cheese board and one hour of photography; oceanhouseri.com)
Set on an island in the middle of picturesque Narragansett Bay, this 257-room hideaway has all the glitz of its Hamptons sister properties (the eatery Scarpetta; outdoor firepits) blended with the traditional appeal of Newport (maritime design and uninterrupted water views). The property also boasts 22 slips for boats as large as 125 feet—Newport is, after all, one of the most famous host sites of the famed America’s Cup regatta. Wed here in a micro wedding and celebrate under the famed Goat Island Lighthouse and toast to your union over a traditional New England clambake (wedding packages start at $1,500 for up to 15 guests and include ceremony set up on the North Lawn, champagne toast and pool cabana rental; gurneysresorts.com).
THE PRESERVE SPORTING CLUB & RESIDENCES A resort designed for our new normal, this haute outdoors-first resort is a collection of cabins, treehouses and high-end tents scattered across 3,500 acres. Activities are all about the natural surroundings. There’s hiking, fishing, horseback riding, clay shooting, swimming and more. Micro wedding ceremonies for up to 10 guests embody the property’s chic approach to enjoying the great outdoors with an elevated emphasis on farm-to-table menus (wedding packages start at $2,000 for up to 10 guests and include an officiant, a bouquet and boutonnière, champagne toast and cheese board and one hour of photography; thepreserveri.com).
PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) THE CHANLER AT CLIFF WALK; THE OCEAN HOUSE; THE PRESERVE SPORTING CLUB & RESIDENCES; GURNEY’S NEWPORT RESORT & MARINA
GURNEY’S NEWPORT RESORT & MARINA
ON SALE NOW
REAL DESTINATION WEDDING
BROOKLYN
START SPREADING THE NEWS—THIS COUPLE CELEBRATED THE BEST OF THE BIG APPLE AT THIS URBAN-CHIC RETREAT IN THE CITY’S HIPPEST BOROUGH. BY JENNA MAHONEY
“IT’S THE GREATEST CITY IN THE WORLD,” SAY BRIAN AND TONY STREATER-FROUGE OF THEIR HOME TOWN, NEW YORK CITY. The pair, who live in the industrial-chic section of DUMBO, Brooklyn, hosted a wedding celebration in the neighboring Williamsburg area, known for its cool art and music scene, buzzy boutiques, bars and restaurants, and as being the heart of hipsterville. The couple hosted friends and family from all over the world at The Hoxton, Williamsburg, a hotel that has all the cool factor of the neighborhood, including design touches and programming from local tastemakers, served along excellent cuisine and great service. “The Hoxton’s lower level is welcoming and bustling with locals and tourists who are socializing in a space that not only offers music, coffee, cocktails and eateries collected into one but also sprawls seamlessly both indoors and outdoors,” explain the couple, who loved the venue’s Brooklyn vibe. 000
CAPTION HERE LAURIE RHODES PHOTOGRAPHY:
Bright lights, big smiles, Tony and Brian on the rooftop of The Hoxton.
The city that never sleeps.
all night long
Prior to its explosive gentrification, Williamsburg was the epitome of American industrialism with a diverse population. The area’s abandoned factories and rickety warehouses drew artists who then welcomed a burgeoning food scene. That buzzy cuisine movement is an interpretation of the New American movement where simple dishes are prepared in exquisite detail with locally sourced ingredients. The food at The Hoxton embodies the best of Williamsburg’s offerings and the couple showcased the Americana-influenced menus over the course of the evening. At the rooftop cocktail hour, there were Jonah crab cakes, wild mushroom croquettes and cucumber tea sandwiches. When the party moved downstairs guests were wowed with dim sim and pasta stations. Then there were late-night bites of truffle mac and cheese and fried chicken.
PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP) LAURIE RHODES (2); THE HOXTON, WILLIAMSBURG; LAURIE RHODES (3); THE HOXTON, WILLIAMSBURG
The Hoxton, Williamsburg.
on the waterfront
The DUMBO House pool is a favorite local spot of the couple. The rooftop outpost flaunts up-close views of the Brooklyn Bridge and sweeping vistas of the island of Manhattan.
Wallabout Bay isn’t as bold-face a brand as other Big Apple attractions. But what it lacks in name recognition it more than makes up for in historical context and impact. The inlet at a northern point of Brooklyn was the site of one of the bloodiest battles in the Revolutionary War. In 1801 the Navy Yard was erected here and so began a storied powerhouse of American A toast to the couple. warship building. After employing more than 70,000 people at its height of production, it was decommissioned in 1966. Today, the 300-acre site is experiencing a robust revitalization, and houses more than 500 businesses, studios and small-batch production outfits. For an interactive look at the history of the Navy Yard, check out Building 91, a small museum housed in a reconfigured circa 1857 Commandant house. ➺
The couple with their dog.
The seasonal Summerly.
Tony and his mom.
Brian’s sister walked him down the aisle.
➺
REAL DESTINATION WEDDING Signature drinks.
UP ON THE ROOFTOP One of the spaces that captivated the couple is The Hoxton’s rooftop restaurant and bar called the Summerly. “The sophisticated outdoor space offers stunning views of the NYC skyline,” the couple says. And it is here that they swapped vows, officiated by the first openly gay federal judge. After the ceremony, guests toasted to Brian and Tony’s union on the sparkling rooftop deck.
A variety of sweet treats were served throughout the night.
THE MAKERS MOVEMENT IS AS BROOKLYN AS TRUMAN CAPOTE, NATHAN’S Hot Dogs and Coney Island’s Cyclone (a rickety wooden roller coaster). The borough
is home to the global HQ of shop-small, crafting juggernaut Etsy and the famous Brooklyn Flea. Hosted weekends around the borough (its location depends on the day and season), the flea market is a showcase for the best and newest handcrafted and vintage finds curated by local artisans.
The Brooklyn Bridge (constructed 1870-1883) is one of the world’s most recognized sights. And it has influenced some of the most renowned poets from Jack Kerouac and Hart Crane to Federico Garcia Lorca to compose odes in its honor. The couple forgo a sit-down meal in exchange for food all night.
ferry nice
The cermony concluded with a live perfomance of Beyoncé’s song “XO” by Tamara Jade.
legally wed
Marriage licenses are required in the state of New York, and must
be obtained in person by the couple. Each must furnish proof of age (requirements of exact documents may vary by county), the required fee ($40) and,
Women played major roles in the event.
if applicable, a divorce decree or death certificate. Licenses are valid for 60 days. And there’s a 24-hour waiting period.
Manhattan’s East River, which is actually a saltwater tidal estuary, bifurcates Manhattan from Brooklyn and Queens. For generations the only way to access the populous island from the outer boroughs was via bridge or tunnel (or subway). Similarly, it was difficult to navigate between Brooklyn neighborhoods. That all changed a few years ago thanks to a comprehensive ferry service. With stops along the Brooklyn and Queens side, various routes hug the banks of the East River affording awesome city views. Manhattan-side stops run from Wall Street downtown up to 90th Street. Tickets must be purchased prior to boarding.
PHOTOGRAPHY: LAURIE RHODES
made in brooklyn
Posing at a former Brooklyn tenement.
Some enchanted evening.
travel notes
The hip Brit Hoxton hotel brand is known for its sense-of-place The bar at Summerly. appeal, local design ethos and relaxed gathering spaces for visitors and neighbors alike. Each property is an artful blend of hyper-local details crafted and curated by in-the-know tastemakers who also happen to live near the particular outposts. So it’s no surprise that the company’s first American property is the 175-room The Hoxton, Williamsburg, a jewel box of a hideaway that flaunts an only-in-Brooklyn vibe and is set in a low-rise building with peek-a-boo views of Manhattan and its epic skyline. The lobby area is a sunken space that’s accessed by an oversize cement staircase. Here local DJs spin throughout the week while a coffee bar serves up a bespoke roast exclusively blended by La Colombe. Juices are also on offer throughout the day and are best enjoyed on one of the many mod couches. Mixologists at Klein’s, the hotel’s marquee eatery, specialize in artful cocktails inspired by the Americana history of the neighborhood. Seating spills outdoors onto a patio that changes its setup seasonThe cool lobby ally—winter often welcomes awesome igloos. and Klein’s. The roofdeck with a bar and heavy-on-theOFFICIANT: The Honorable Deborah A. Batts, light bites menu (rosé, lobster rolls and hearty Judge of U.S. District Court for the salads are go-tos) is aptly called Summerly Southern District of New York and is open in warmer months (room rates CATERING: The Hoxton, Williamsburg start at $159 a night and include grab-and-go PHOTOGRAPHY: Laurie Rhodes breakfast; thehoxton.com.
wedding details
DJ: Khloe G, AKA Milkyshake SINGER: Tamara Jade GUITARIST: Alex Nolan
PHOTOGRAPHY: THE HOXTON, WILLIAMSBURG
WEDDING COORDINATOR:
The Apartment, The Hoxton’s cool event space.
Brittany Ward of Modern Rebel PHOTO BOOTH: Sharing Box SUCCULENTS ARRANGEMENTS: La Catrina Flower Studio BRIAN’S ATTIRE: Grey suit by River Island UK collection; shirt and tie by Brooks Brothers; shoes by Cole Haan TONY’S ATTIRE: Blue suit by Paul Smith; shirt and tie by Brooks Brothers; shoes by Cole Haan
Linens are designed by Brooklyn-based Dusen Dusen.
a dream
WEDDING & HONEYMOON BEACHES® FREE* TROPICAL WEDDING WITH A 3-NIGHT STAY OR MORE!
INVITE FAMILY & FRIENDS AND BOOK MORE ROOMS TO GET MORE PERKS, FROM A FREE HONEYMOON SUITE* UPGRADE TO A LOBSTER DINNER RECEPTION*
P L U S A B E AC H E S H O N E Y M O O N I N C L U D E S : * A BUBBLY WELCOME A bottle of chilled sparkling wine elegantly arranged in the room upon arrival to toast to the future. A ROMANTIC G E ST U R E A s p e c i a l t u r n d ow n s e r v i ce o n a n eve n i n g o f t h e honeymoon. WAKE UP TO WEDDED BLISS Delight in a delivery of fresh flowers and a decadent breakfast in bed, one morning of choice.
UP TO 21 RESTAURANTS INCLUDED FROM CASUAL FARE TO WHITE-GLOVE SERVICE, IT’S ALL GOURMET.
Wedding
in a dream
Destination WEDDINGS
PLATINUM PROTOCOL OF
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A FOREVER LOVE FOR TWO. A VACATION FOR ALL. It’s the day you have dreamt of your entire life, and you want to share it with the ones you love. Best of all, after your magical wedding day, the two of you can slip off to the honeymoon of your dreams. You'll enjoy every indulgence in one of our decadently romantic suites, while your guests enjoy the vacation of a lifetime where everything’s included. Every land and water sport under the sun, including daily scuba diving*–voted top five in the Western Hemisphere by PADI®, 5-Star Global Gourmet™dining at up to 21 restaurants serving unlimited pours of Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks ® wines and premium liquors. Even tips, taxes and Beaches transfers* are included. At Beaches Resorts, you'll enjoy the honeymoon of a lifetime and celebrate the most special time of your lives with the people who mean the most to you.
BEACHES.COM/WEDDINGS
1-877-BEACHES or Call Your Travel Advisor More Quality Inclusions Than Any Other Resort In The World
@beachesresortsweddings *Visit www.beaches.com/disclaimers/bridalguidemarapr2021bch or call 1-800-BEACHES for important terms and conditions. Beaches® is a registered trademark. Unique Vacations, Inc. is an affiliate of Unique Travel Corp., the worldwide representative of Beaches Resorts.
FREE WEDDING RINGS for the first 50 couples who register and attend a show! Plus FREE $200 GIFT CARD for EVERY COUPLE who registers and attends a show. AN $850 VALUE!! Rings courtesy of JVL Jewelers.
EVERY COUPLE that REGISTERS and ATTENDS will receive a gift card. A $200 VALUE!! BUY ONE TICKET GET ONE FREE when you enter coupon code BGPBOGO at www.GreatBridalExpo.com
COMING TO A CITY NEAR YOU ATLANTA Sunday, January 31, 2021 Sunday, October 10 , 2021
DALLAS Sunday, February 21, 2021 Sunday, October 24, 2021
HOUSTON Sunday, February 20, 2021 Saturday, October 23, 2021
BALTIMORE Sunday, January 9, 2021 Sunday, September 19, 2021
DENVER Sunday, March 14, 2021 Sunday, October 31, 2021
LOS ANGELES Sunday, February 28, 2021 Sunday, November 21, 2021
BOSTON Sunday, January 24, 2021 Sunday, October 3, 2021
FT. LAUDERDALE Sunday, February 7, 2021 Sunday, October 17, 2021
MIAMI Sunday, February 7, 2021 Sunday, October 17, 2021
See page 67 in Bridal Guide for locations and times.
*DATES
AND LOCATIONS
SUBJECT TO CHANGE
.
NEW YORK CITY Tuesday, January 26, 2021 Fall 2021 TBA
PHOENIX Sunday, February 14, 2021 Sunday, November 7, 2021 SAN JOSE Sunday, March 7, 2021 Sunday, November 14, 2021 WASHINGTON, DC Sunday, January 10, 2021 Sunday, September 26, 2021
www.GreatBridalExpo.com | 800.422.3976 Exhibitor & sponsorship opportunities available. Call to learn more!
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REAL DESTINATION HONEYMOONS
INDONESIA
GO OFF THE GRID LIKE THIS COUPLE AND FIND YOUR HAPPILY EVER AFTER WITH A HONEYMOON AT THIS REMOTE ISLAND RESORT. SWEPT-AWAY BONUS: IT’S GOT 13 BEACHES.
PHOTOGRAPHY: BAHWAH RESERVE; JILLIANNE PIERCE
BY JENNA MAHONEY
PARADISE FOUND Romance rules at Bawah Reserve.
Jillianne & Saúl
“One of the items on our wedding registry was a request for donations to the Bawah Anambas Foundation, the reserve’s independent charity supporting local community development and marine and forest conservation. STAR TURN Enjoying a private dinner.
I
f the globe actually had far-flung corners, one would certainly be a paradise on earth—a place where sugar sands are met by crystalline waters. A visit to such a Shangri-La would be all about lazing about the untouched natural setting and savoring fresh-caught fish. Bawah Reserve, an enchanting enclave stretching over six pristine islands in Indonesia is such a hideaway. Flaunting 13 exclusive beaches edging dense tropical foliage, this all-inclusive resort is the stuff of honeymoon daydreams. Newlyweds Jillianne Pierce and Saúl Reza Arcelus of Orlando, Florida jetted off to this hideaway to celebrate their union in blissful privacy with unbeatable service and even better natural views. BRIDAL GUIDE: How did you discover Bawah Reserve? JILLIANE PIERCE: We wanted to travel to a quiet destination—the more remote, the better—and somewhere we’d never been. A friend, who is a travel writer, had visited Bawah and recommended it. The secluded nature of each villa and the fact that we would be two of a limited number of people on the island really sold it for us. BG: Were there any other draws? JP: We try to be sustainable in our every day, so the environmental-friendliness of the Bawah Reserve was huge for us. The resort is a leader in eco-friendly practices—there are impressive solar water heating and water desalination systems, a zero-waste program and a permaculture garden to supply the property. SLEEP IN A look at the fantastic BG: What was it like to stay at an eco-paradise? accommodations. JP: We loved the horticulture tour. It was so refreshing to see rather than just hear about the importance of sustainability to the resort. Another WET ROOM highlight was a picnic on a secluded beach Baths are fashioned from and a gorgeous beach cabana. The crew local wood. gave us a walkie-talkie to call if we needed anything, and boated off to leave us all alone. And movie night was phenomenal— it was an elaborate barbecue party under the stars, followed by a surfside screening. BG: What were other mealtimes like? JP: The food at Bawah was incredible. We enjoyed fresh-caught snapper daily. Our final night, the Bawah team made a private candlelit dinner on a sandbar. We enjoyed
HIGH LIFE Overwater accommodations are the ultimate in romance.
PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) BAHWAH RESERVE (3); JILLIANNE PIERCE
REAL DESTINATION HONEYMOONS
ON TOP OF THE WORLD The couple overlooking the resort.
PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) JILLIANNE PIERCE; BAHWAH RESERVE (6)
FRESH CAUGHT Meals feature local seafood.
SUBHEAD We sawMus aspiscil id mo que comnihil
BEST IN SHOW A main dining area with an amazing view.
CAPTION
FOR THE LOVEBIRDS Garden villas feel like treehouses.
Bawah Reserve’s 36 accommodations consist of overwater bungalows, garden villas, beach tents and suites. Each was expertly crafted by local artisans using sustainable or recycled woods and have sexy outdoor showers. The trio of garden villas features freestanding copper baths. The tents are a glamping experience privately positioned right on the sands.
SEAWORTHY Kayaking to an overwater villa.
INCOMING The resort is accessed via seaplane.
SUPER SPREADERS Villas are blissfully distanced.
an amazing meal and personal stargazing. BG: Did you have a favorite daily treat? JP: The fresh juices were so good that we almost never felt compelled to order cocktails. My go-to was watermelon; Saúl's was mango. BG: What island activities did you enjoy? JP: We did some wonderful snorkeling. Saúl was over the moon when we rented a small sailboat to cruise around the lagoon fronting the resort. One evening as the tide was coming in, we walked out as far as we could on the exposed sand next to the Boat House. And we saw bioluminescence in the waves. BG: Any travel tips? JP: We were able to secure better rates in January because it was the wet season. Our visit was far from stormy. We loved getting caught in an occasional passing rain shower or lying in bed in our villa listening to the sound of the rain on the roof (room rates start at $1,980 per couple per night and include all meals, activities, a spa treatment daily and more; bawahreserve.com). ¢
FIRST LOOK
The River House at Odette’s
Sneak a peek at one of the hottest new hotels where romantic amenities are always on offer.
O
n the banks of the storied Delaware River in the charming town of New Hope in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, stands a historic stone-and-timber building that’s been welcoming guests since 1794. Today, the space is a modern rustic-chic hideaway of just 38 rooms, many with river views, a cool rooftop private club, a new American restaurant and cozy lobby anchored by an oversize chimney. The pampering hotel—seriously, the service is excellent—recently opened with the name River House at Odette’s, an artful ode to the history of the building and the area. One of the hallmarks of the hotel is its location on the historic Towpath, the nearly 60-mile gravelly trail that once linked the cities of Philadelphia and New York (the journey took three days then; today, it’s mere hours). The Towpath is now used for recreation, and The River House at Odette’s has bikes available for guests’ use. Inside amenities include live music—another homage to the hideaway’s history. The namesake of the property—vaudeville star Odette Myrtil Logan—helmed an eponymous bistro with cabaret and piano bar for years after she purchased it in 1961. Her love letters can be seen in the event space—they’ve been refashioned into chic wallpaper. There’s a galLOCAL FAVORITES lery wall of her performance photos in an entryway, WARWICK FARM BREWING and above the Insta-perfect stone fireplace in the Set on a high grassy point in hotel lobby hangs a painting that Logan commisJamison, this newer-to-the Bucks sioned. The chimney also bisects the Piano Lounge County brew scene specializes from the river-facing restaurant, a hip space that in hazy IPAs and outdoor Saturday events on the lawn. spills onto an iron balcony suspended over the canal and Towpath (room rates start at $349 a SHADY BROOK FARM night; riverhousenewhope.com). —Jenna Mahoney Founded in 1913, the nearly 200 acre farm is an area juggernaut for seasonal activities. There’s the Harvest Fest in fall complete with a corn maze and tractor pull; spring welcomes egg hunts. BUCKS COUNTY PLAYHOUSE The stage of this marquee regional attraction has welcomed the best names in acting.
Dinner and a view.
The Piano Lounge welcomes a rotating roster of musicians. Chic and sumptuous— the river-view accommodations.
A chimney anchors the outdoor dining space.
PHOTOGRAPHY: THE RIVER HOUSE AT ODETTE’S
The River House at Odette’s in New Hope, Pennsylvania.
Escape
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Florida to
Forever Fort Myers and Sanibel memories
For your suntastic wedding, dreamy honeymoon or romantic getaway, Florida is waiting for you with open arms!
Special Advertising Feature
W
ith 825 miles of sandy beaches, there’s a spot just right for you when you Visit Florida. Tons of wedding venues, tranquil sunsets, warm breezy days and the soothing sounds of the waves will inspire you. Venues range from casual toes-in-the-sand to the very elegant and everything in between. Here are some of our favorites.
Marathon, The Florida Keys
F
ew places on earth hold a wedding candle to Marathon in the heart of The Florida Keys.
Here, beautiful brides, unforgettable venues and endless activities go hand-in-betrothed-hand. Glistening sunsets, warm breezes, natural wonders and wide open spaces are but a few of the gifts that make Marathon such an ideal partner
Rediscover love in Marathon
for romance—whether it’s a destination wedding, a passionate honeymoon or a romantic getaway. Whatever your heart desires, you’ll find it in Marathon: professional planners, photographers, hoteliers and venue operators to help you plan your special day. For an experience you’ll cherish forever after, visit fla-keys.com/marathon or call 1-800-262-7284. Read the latest protocols on health and safety in The Florida Keys at fla-keys.com.
Get swept off your bare feet.
There’s nothing more relaxed and natural than a beachfront wedding in Marathon in The Florida Keys. Whether you dream of a barefoot ceremony, a formal black-tie affair or something in-between, it’s a magical way to start your lives together. No matter which venue you choose, you’ll discover romantic sunsets, endless watersports and professional wedding coordinators to help you every step of the way. For the latest protocols on health & safety in The Florida Keys, please visit our website. fla-keys.com/marathon 1.800.262.7284
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Toes-in-the-sand weddings in Fort Myers and Sanibel
Having fun in Marathon
The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel
B
eaches and beginnings. Begin your life together in a place as beautiful as the love you share— The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel.
Set against the picture-perfect backdrop of Southwest Florida’s beaches and islands, there’s no better place for a destination wedding. A wide variety of venues are available, from waterfront resorts on tropical islands to historic homes and gardens with Old Florida charm. Whether you want a traditional wedding, an open-air beach wedding or something in between, all the right touches are within reach. So if you're looking to walk down a white-sand aisle, or want to raise a little (s)hell with close friends before your big day, enjoy celebrating with loved ones exactly how you imagined. Plan your dream day at FortMyers-Sanibel.com/Weddings or call a Fort Myers and Sanibel wedding specialist at 1-239-338-3500.
Marathon memorable moments
Stroll into forever on The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel
Let’s celebrate together.
Plan your dream day at FortMyers-Sanibel.com/Weddings
WA LT O N IDEAL FOR “I DO� In South Walton, Florida, you can truly have it all. With an idyllic setting, distinctive venues and convenient amenities, there’s nothing standing between you and the wedding of your dreams. These 16 unique beach neighborhoods are filled with opportunities to create lasting memories. With great year-round weather, any season is perfect for starting your ‘happily ever a er.’
W H AT ’ S B E S T F O R Y O U R G U E S T S This upscale yet relaxing destination was named one of “The World’s Greatest Places� by TIME Magazine. Your guests will enjoy excellent dining featuring Gulf-fresh seafood and upscale options for farm-to-table cuisine, as well as a wide variety of boutique shopping and championship golf, all with 26-miles of beautiful white-sand beach as your backdrop. Luxurious accommodations range from boutique hotels to beach co ages or full-service resorts. And travel is a breeze, whether by car or by plane. With non-stop flights from 28 U.S. cities, all major carriers service two convenient airports.
Sunset Images Photography
Upscale accommodations, five-star service, exceptional amenities
No ma er your wedding style, the size of your guest list or the
and the comforts of Southern hospitality – WaterColor Inn is the
special touches you’re dreaming of, Hilton Sandestin Beach
ultimate beach resort experience for your wedding.
Golf Resort & Spa provides the perfect venue for your wedding celebration.
SANDESTIN BEACH GOLF RESORT & SPA
WaterColorResort.com/Weddings •
HiltonSandestinBeach.com •
WHERE FOREVER BEGINS With beautiful scenery and settings, South Walton is ideal for bringing family and friends together to celebrate. VISIT SOUTH WALTON. COM / WEDDINGS
MIRAMAR BEACH • SEASCAPE • SANDESTIN • DUNE ALLEN • GULF PLACE • SANTA ROSA BEACH • BLUE MOUNTAIN BEACH GRAYTON BEACH • WATERCOLOR • SEASIDE • SEAGROVE • WATERSOUND • SEACREST • ALYS BEACH • ROSEMARY BEACH • INLET BEACH
stlucia.org
SHE’S THE ONE
She is Saint Lucia Let her inspire a day like no other. A day when the promise of forever love, brings memories that will last a lifetime. Where the backdrop of breathtaking scenery and unique locations add extra wow to your vows. Walk hand in hand along the golden sand. Dance your first dance to the magical rhythm of the island. And spend romantic nights embracing all the comforts and finery of hotels that offer everything your hearts could desire, and more. Say ‘I do’ in Saint Lucia. Say ‘yes’ to the world’s leading honeymoon destination.