Destination I Do - Fall 2012 by Destination I Do

PERFECT Destination | Wedding | Beginning

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DestinationWeddings.com Preferred Partners:

AZUL BEACH

EL DORADO SEASIDE

A 98 room boutique hotel with all rooms less than one minute from the beach. Includes a frozen bar top with over 30 tequilas, fresh fish market, beach butlers and Toddler inclusive program by Fisher Price.

Voted one of the top ten most romantic resorts in the world by Forbes, this 280 suite resort, features all Jacuzzi suites and five Gourmet Inclusive restaurants.

AZUL SENSATORI

EL DORADO MAROMA

The only hotel in the world with Sky Weddings, where couples can say “I Do” with a view of nothing but sea and sky behind them.

An intimate 72 suite boutique resort on one of the top ten beaches in the world voted by Travel Channel. Enjoy exotic outdoor showers, 24 hour room service, Jacuzzi suites with Infinity plunge pools and beach butlers.

FREE Upgrade Confirm your wedding* and receive a 1–category upgrade, the bride and groom stay free promotion,** up to $1,500 credit towards a return 1st Anniversary stay, and much more! For more information: DestinationWeddings.com/karisma Nobody else offers more exclusive packages to these resorts than DestinationWeddings.com

*Exclusive Offer Only Available Through DestinationWeddings.com **Check with your destination wedding specialist regarding this promotion

AZUL FIVES HOTEL

EL DORADO ROYALE

Located just 10 minutes from charming Playa del Carmen, Azul Fives Hotel is noted as the only Gourmet Inclusive® hotel that has enormous suites designed for families and friends with up to three bedrooms and rooftop decks. Activities and special experiences foster togetherness for families, couples and groups of friends.

A AAA 4 Diamond award winning resort with 639 suites including 7 Gourmet Inclusive restaurants awarded by Wine Spectator Magazine. Also enjoy a 20,000 sq. ft. Mexican themed spa and the destination’s only greenhouse harvesting 35 types of plants and vegetables.

Subject to change and cancellation at any time

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department HEADING Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to book wedding travel together and save. The American Airlines Group & Meeting TravelSM wedding package offers special discounts for groups of 10 or more. Get reduced rates on our lowest available fare tickets and complimentary wedding invitation inserts for your guests. To learn more and book your travel, contact our Wedding Services Desk at 1-800-545-8193. Or visit AA.com/group.

AmericanAirlines, AA.com and AmericanAirlines Group & Meeting Travel are marks of American Airlines, Inc. oneworld is a mark of the oneworld Alliance, LLC. ÂŠ 2011 American Airlines, Inc. All rights reserved.

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TO LOVE, TO HONOR...

and Dream.

FREE WEDDING NOW AND ENJOY FREE NIGHTS TOWARD YOUR BOOK YOUR

FIRST ANNIVERSARY STAY.

One magical celebration. Two lovers. Eleven spectacular tropical locations. Infinite pleasures – all with the privileges of Unlimited-Luxury.®

DREAMS CANCUN • DREAMS HUATULCO • DREAMS LA ROMANA • DREAMS LOS CABOS • DREAMS PALM BEACH PUNTA CANA • DREAMS PUERTO AVENTURAS DREAMS PUERTO VALLARTA • DREAMS PUNTA CANA • DREAMS RIVIERA CANCUN • DREAMS TULUM • DREAMS VILLAMAGNA NUEVO VALLARTA

To ﬁnd your local Romance Travel Specialist visit www.allabouthoneymoons.com destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

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NORWEGIANS SAY “I DO” AT SEA. Walk down an aisle scattered with rose petals surrounded by the romance of the sea. Dance under a canopy of moonlit stars. Raise a champagne glass in the balmy breeze. Celebrate your big day in a big way on board one of our ships to the Caribbean or Hawai`i. On your way, enjoy spacious Suites, intimate restaurants, secluded lounges and a staff that will cater to your every whim morning, noon and night. Let us plan every detail of your wedding so you can enjoy an experience you won’t soon forget.

To learn more about our wedding packages, find your local romance travel specialist at allabouthoneymoons.com.

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Images Courtesy of © Hawai`i Tourism Authority

features DESTINATION i do

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26 28

FAMILY-FRIENDLY DESTINATIONS

Paso Robles – Often referred to as the “other” wine country,

Hawaii – These Westin resorts cater to parents traveling with

Paso matches its popular neighbors to the north in both

children. Forget the stress of being away from home and

beauty and taste.

enjoy the laid-back lifestyle of Hawaii.

New Hampshire – A popular destination for New Englanders

Florida – If you’ve never been to a Club Med resort, pack

for centuries, this quaint, historic destination has charm and

your bags and hit the road to Sandpiper Bay. The only truly

activities to spare.

all-inclusive resort in the U.S. knows how to throw a party –

Maine – Known by some as one of the most beautiful states

your wedding included.

the U.S. has to offer, it’s no wonder Maine is a popular wedding destination. A local expert weighs in on the top

spots to say “I do.”

Our friends over at All About Honeymoons and Destination

Florida – The PGA National Resort and Spa will please

Weddings are travel specialists who make it their life’s

even the pickiest of guests. Between world-class golf

mission to create the most seamless experience possible.

and the recent renovations to the resort and its spa, you

This time around they focus on an up-and-coming option:

can rest easy.

honeymoon registries. HONEYMOON HIDEAWAYS

CARIBBEAN

34 36

St. John – This hot and happening island in the U.S. Virgin

Australia – The southern Australian adventure continues

Islands is not only beautiful, it’s entertaining.

with even more places to lay your head and express

British Virgin Islands – Want to combine your getaway with

your heart.

wellness? This resort has all the tricks to keep you not only

Mexico – Hands-down one of the most romantic places we’ve been, Ixtapa will take your breath away and the

looking amazing, but feeling amazing.

SOLVING THE RIDDLE OF HONEYMOON REGISTRIES

fabulous Capella resort will make your pulse race.

Puerto Rico – Set in the definition of tropical paradise, this St. Regis resort will introduce you to a new level of luxury.

Tahiti – This relatively unknown Tahitian paradise is well worth the trip.

WEDDINGS YOUR WAY EUROPEAN ESCAPES

Colin Cowie is a wedding industry staple synonymous with exclusivity, high-end glamour and creativity. However, things

experience with this chic, mountain-top resort.

are changing thanks to a new partnership between the man himself, Palace Resorts and Hard Rock Hotels. His signature

Switzerland – Set in the Alps, have a truly mind-blowing spa

Ireland – Known for its lush green countryside, we take to the coast in this life-changing Irish jaunt. This Irish manor

style is no longer just for the rich and famous.

home-inspired resort is a true honeymooners delight.

London – It’s been a big year for this European capital and these properties prove the Brits truly know how to wine and dine.

Photo courtesy of: Aaron Mizushima

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ROAD TRIP NUPTIALS

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NewBridal

CUSTOMIZATION Customize Your Dream Wedding

With Sandals’ New “Wedding Designer”

Sandals® Resorts makes designing a dream wedding an interactive reality with our easy-to-use Wedding Designer. This online tool lets brides plan every aspect of their special day, from the destination and color palette, to the ﬂowers, décor and cake. And once you book your stay, a Sandals Wedding Planner will be there every step of the way, taking care of all the details so that you can focus on what’s truly important—each other.

Contact DestinationWeddings.com • 1-888-536-1923 Sandals® is a registered trademark and is represented worldwide by Unique FALVacations, L & W I N T EInc. R 2012

| destinationidomag.com

Your Wedding. Your Style. 9

departments DESTINATION i do

FA LL/ W IN T ER 2 0 1 2

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82 BLUSH AND BASHFUL – Your Top Ten Etiquette Questions

15 EDITOR’S LETTER

Weddings tend to bring out the “crazy” in people, so make

18 THE GUEST BOOK – A Pinterest Wedding

sure you aren’t one of them by sticking to our etiquette

Pinterest, a website dedicated to all things inspirational, has

advice. This issue features a catch-all of the most common

quickly taken over the wedding planning world. See how one

and complicated issues you may face.

real-life bride used this addicting tool to organize and design

84 BACHELOR PAD – The Ultimate Groom’s Gift Guide

her own destination wedding.

No matter the style of the groom or groomsman, this gift

42 ASK THE EXPERT – The Inside Scoop on All-Inclusives

guide has something for the man in your life. From the latest

DestinationWeddings.com shares expert advice on a

in technology, to a tequila tasting tray, you’ll have him

destination wedding, all-inclusive style. Discover the do’s,

yelling “Ole!”

don’ts and industry secrets about saying “I do” in a one-stop-

92 REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

shop fashion.

We are continually impressed by couples’ abilities to take

46 FASHION FORWARD

their destination weddings to an even higher level of beauty,

Wine country is a quintessential must-visit on the road

customization and adventure. This issue features couples

to romance and it also serves as the backdrop for this

who combined cultures in China, brought mind-blowing detail

issue’s inspirational shoot. Paso Robles was the setting for

to Sonoma and even partied with Elvis in Sin City. The buck

photographer, Allyson Magda, to capture laid-back, rustic

doesn’t stop there with a sentimental ceremony in Kaua’i,

chic beauty.

Indian-fusion in Ohio (no, really!) and glam to the max in Beverly Hills.

60 DEARLY BELOVED 120 TO HAVE & TO HOLD

Destination I Do, we knew we needed to find a way to

Introducing Destination I Do’s latest department: To Have &

showcase it for all of you. This Mindy Weiss created luau will

To Hold. Essentially a love fest, these are all the latest and

inspire you to implement your destination’s flair on more than

greatest products which are a must-have. This issue features

just your wedding day. Find out how with her expert tips.

all the best products for taking your beauty to the next level.

Visit our blog, destinationidomagblog.com, to get frequent updates on products perfect for weddings away, places our traveling editors visit, beauty tips and tricks, gorgeous destination wedding dresses and all things travel, romance or wedding related! Need even more inspiration beyond what graces our glossy pages? Visit our oh-so-lovely Pinterest page, pinterest.com/destinationido. Looking for other locations? Check out our website to order past issues featuring: celebrity weddings, romantic castles, Thailand, Australia, Europe, the Hawaiian Islands, the Caribbean, Mexico, countless locations in the U.S., the ultimate honeymoon hideaways and much more, destinationidomag.com/subscribe

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Photo courtesy of: Caroline Tran, carolinetran.net

When this pre-wedding party crossed our desks at

YOUR LOVE

with your

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LOVED ONES

At Beaches® Resorts, we make your dreams of the perfect wedding come true, because only Beaches offers a fully-customizable wedding designed and created by you. Here, you can celebrate the most special time of your life with the people who mean the most to you. Best of all, Beaches marries your perfect wedding with the romantic honeymoon of a lifetime, giving you a WeddingMoon® with every land and water sport under the sun, anytime gourmet dining at up to 16 specialty restaurants serving exclusive Beringer® Wines, and luxurious family-friendly suites. So while all your loved ones come to celebrate your love, everyone will enjoy their own celebration of a lifetime, too.

TURKS & CAICOS • JAMAICA A Caribbean Family-Owned Company

Contact DestinationWeddings.com at: 1-888-536-1923 Beaches® is a registered worldwide by Unique Vacations, Inc. FALtrademark L & W I N T E Rand 2 0 1is2 represented | destinationidomag.com

A Beaches® Destination Wedding is a Celebration for Everyone! Since Beaches Resor ts are designed for ever yone, you can celebrate the most special time of your life w i t h t h e p e o p l e w h o m e a n t h e m o s t t o y o u . B e s t o f a l l , a f t e r y o u r m a g i c a l w e d d i n g d a y, t h e t w o o f y o u c a n s l i p o f f to a r o m a n t i c h o n e y m o o n i n a c o m p l e t e l y i n t i m a t e a n d l u x u r i o u s s u i t e . M e a n w h i l e y o u r g u e s t s c a n e n j o y e v e r y l a n d a n d w a t e r s p o r t u n d e r t h e s u n , a n d a n y t i m e g o u r m e t d i n i n g a t u p t o 16 s p e c i a l t y re s t a u r a nts s e r v i n g exc l u s i ve B e r i n g e r ® W i n e s. A we d d i n g d ay at B e a c h e s, i s a d ay re m e m b e re d by eve r yo n e.

A Caribbean Family-Owned Company

TURKS & CAICOS • JAMAICA

Contact DestinationWeddings.com at: 1-888-536-1923

Beaches® is a registered trademark. Unique Vacations, Inc., is the worldwide representative for Beaches Resorts.

DREAMS with the ones you love the most

wedding of your

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When you want to share the

ON THE COVER Throughout this issue pg. 66 pg. 46 pg. 18 pg. 22

Owner/CEO Chief Operating Officer Editor in Chief/Publisher Senior Editor Creative Director Marketing & Editorial Coordinator National Advertising Director Senior Advertising Manager East Coast Advertising Manager Contributing Writers

pg. 92

FALL: These newlyweds sneak a kiss with vibrant vines as their backdrop. Shot on location at Hammer Sky Vineyards in Paso Robles, California, our bride is stunning in a bridal gown and lace bolero both by Jenny Yoo. She’s accessorized with a cabernet color bouquet by Couture Floral and Event Design and a veil by Lo Boheme. Her dashing groom is wearing a suit from Kohl's. Photography

Production Coordinator Intern, AKA “Milton”

Carolyn Steere Gordon Steere Jennifer Stein Carolyn Gerin Gerd Corrigan Courtney Cox Mike Walker Debbie Armer Barbara Curley Kinsley Brown Kate Darnell Elaine Hilbelink Stacey Marcus Sharon Naylor Sarah Padilla Samantha Payne John Roark Lauren Rubino Audi Taraldsen Shana Zalopany Kristi Blane Kelly Ryan

Subscriptions

courtesy of Allyson Magda Photography, allysonmagda.com

Please visit us online at destinationidomag.com/subscribe or call our toll-free number

and a special thanks to Leila Khalil of Be Inspired PR.

to order a one-year subscription – 866-359-9855. Domestic and Canadian rates are $9.90 USD per year and foreign $25.90 USD.

Advertising Inquiries Please contact our corporate office at 480-759-9855 or visit us online at destinationidomag.com/advertise.

Throughout this issue

Featured Locations If you would like us to feature your location or wedding, please submit your request via email to info@destinationidomag.com

pg. 66

or visit destinationidomag.com/submission_guidelines

pg. 74

pg. 18

Please note that Destination I Do Magazine provides this information only as a general

pg. 56

guide. Opinions expressed by writers do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. Destination I Do Magazine is published twice annually with a quarterly cover

pg. 92

change. If you have purchased the same issue twice, please contact our customer service department at 480-759-9855.

WINTER: Real-life newlyweds Brendan and Sherri soak up the sunset after their Cabo San Lucas, Mexico destination

Correction to Spring/Summer 2012 issue: In an article titled “St. Augustine, The Casa Monica Hotel,” the author stated the owner’s name to be Michael Kessler and it is, in fact, Richard Kessler. Please accept our sincerest apologies for the incorrect information.

wedding. The bride is seaside glamorous in a gown by Contact Us

Monique Lhuillier and her groom is the perfect complement in an Armani suit. The bride’s blooming bouquet is by Living Art. Photograph courtesy of Kelly Wood Photography, kellywoodphoto.com.

Phone: 480-759-9855 | Toll Free: 866-359-9855 Web: destinationidomag.com Blog: destinationidomagblog.com Email: info@destinationidomag.com Twitter: @destinationido | Facebook: facebook.com/destinationido Pinterest: pinterest.com/destinationido

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One of my closest friends decided several months ago to get married in Kaua’i. Being a project manager for a living, she is the ultimate planner. She’s also one of the most peaceful and stoic people I’ve ever known. Put her in a chaotic situation and she’ll be as cool as a cucumber. When she got engaged, it was obvious a destination wedding would be the perfect option for her.

relaxed attitude from the very beginning, and now it’s infected the guests. I already feel like I’m on vacation and the bags haven’t even been packed. Being in the wedding industry, I look at weddings differently than others. Yes, interesting details and décor are important and the destination can really add to the experience, but the best weddings I’ve ever attended had nothing to do with the

editor's LETTER

Relax

Frankie Says

“pomp and circumstance.” They were the most enjoyable namely because of how the couples’ attitudes set the tone for the celebration. A positive approach and a “don’t sweat the small stuff” outlook can be contagious. So, if there is one piece of advice I’d give you, it is to relax and enjoy yourself. The details are things only you will notice. What others will remember is how you carried yourself and treated your guests. Take a page out of my friend’s book, take a deep breath and enjoy the journey (oh, and check out Pinterest for your planning!).

Immediately the search began for the ideal beach house and

Sometimes the bumps along the way can make the ride a little

backdrop for her upcoming destination nuptials. Countless hours

more fun.

on VRBO.com, talking to local real-estate agents and scouring the Internet to find a house large enough to sleep her entire

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a destination wedding to get to!

bridal party and their kids was no easy feat. But eventually she found it, albeit, she had to make some compromises along the way. Yours Truly, Next was the attire – it had to have the destination feel, not

Jennifer (Frankie) Stein

be too matchy or cliché and fit all her bridesmaids with their different bodily “assets.” Pinterest proved to be a huge help here. It allowed her and each bridesmaid to pin their favorite gowns and eventually select the one we’d wear. What surprised me was how “hands off” and open to suggestions she was. It made it fun for the bridal party to be included in the decisions which would shape one of the most important days of her life. Pinterest immediately became a go-to. She selected her savethe-date cards, haku, wedding colors, bridesmaid dresses and attire for the groomsmen, all through the aid of Pinterest and her “pinning” bridesmaid helpers (check out the story on page 18 about Pinterest inspired weddings). P.S. To see the final wedding and how it turned out, see page 112. As I’m writing this, the wedding is three weeks away. Everyone is buzzing with excitement and it’s not because we’re going to

Kaua’i (although no one was disappointed with her destination

Pinterest: pinterest.com/destinationido

selection!), it’s because both her and her fiancé have been so

Twitter: @DestinationIDo

easy-going and have made their guests a top priority. From the

Facebook: facebook.com/destinationido

onset, they have kept everyone in the loop, helped book rental-

Blog: destinationidomagblog.com

cars, airfare and even condos for their guests. They have had a

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ALL DAY. ALL NIGHT. ALL INCLUDED. AND ALL FOR THE TWO OF YOU. department HEADING Set against the inviting backdrop of warm sand and cold drinks, the Hard Rock Hotel Cancun, Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana and Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta offer every couple the tantalizing all-inclusive escape of a lifetime. Guests can enjoy sunset dinners along pristine waters, indulge with tandem spa treatments, or cozy up with the ultimate in relaxation and room amenities. It’s all included and all in the name of love. Create new memories and experience the Hard Rock Hotel Rivera Maya, coming in 2013.

Book your client’s stay now and they’ll receive a $1,500* in resort extras like room upgrades, spa treatments, tours and more.

To find your local Romance Travel Specialist, visit our website at allabouthoneymoons.com today.

AN ALL-INCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE CANCUN . PUNTA CANA . VALLARTA OPENING 2013: RIVIERA MAYA

*$1,500 Resort Credit based on a 5-8 night consecutive stay per room. Bookings of 4 nights receive $750 and 3 nights receive $500. When applying Resort Credit to a Wedding Collection, full amount must be used. Restrictions may apply. ©2012 Hard Rock International (USA), Inc. All rights reserved. SeeTheShow™

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A Pinterest Wedding FROM INSPIRATION TO REALITY Words by Jennifer Stein

guest BOOK This picnic setting gives the wedding a casual and carefree vibe. Photo by Chelsey Boatwright, event design by Desiree Dawn Events and catering by Curbside Gourmet Food Truck.

This head lei inspired the bride to forgo the traditional veil for her Hawaiian wedding.

An illustrated map offers an "aloha" feeling. Illustrated by Couture Maps, stephanniebarba.com, stitching details by Mira Aster, miraaster.com

Some time ago, I had lunch with one of my tech-savvy wedding photographer friends, Melissa Jill, and she asked me if I’d been on Pinterest. To be honest, at the time I’d never heard of it. Soon she was showing me how it worked and within all of five minutes, I was hooked. For those of you who are not familiar - Pinterest is an interactive website community dedicated to inspiration and helpful ideas through the use of pictures. 18

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Top left photo courtesy of: Shutterstock - 46427476

The photos shown in these pages are reflective of a bride’s actual Pinterest board. To see the transformation from inspiration to reality, go to page 112 for her real wedding in Kaua’i.

Being a “scrapbooker” of sorts, I have always found myself clipping magazine photos and ads of décor ideas, fashion and even cool itineraries which get stashed away into a sloppy notebook. This site was perfect for me. Since then I’ve created 11 boards and pinned over 200 items (I’d have more, but being

guest BOOK

an editor and new mom, I don’t have much free time). Either way, when I need inspiration for just about anything, Pinterest is the first place I go. When one of my closest friends, Shana, got engaged and the wedding planning began, Pinterest was the most logical place to start. It was a resource which helped her and her bridesmaids decide on dresses and helped her with décor ideas. She went from inspiration to reality fairly seamlessly from selecting bouquets to her general color palette, all with the aid of Pinterest.

Why Pinterest is helpful for planning your destination wedding:

The bouquet shown (by Millie V's Floral Design) helped the bride decide on a simple, yet tropical look. Photo by Chelsey Boatwright, dress by Free People.

• Pinterest allows you to find just about any color, theme, destination and/or product you can imagine for your wedding. A simple search allows you to sort through thousands of photos relevant to your style. Shana was able to find many components for her Kaua’i wedding. “I found a lot of the artistic inspiration from Pinterest such as hair, ceremony ideas and even stationery.”

• According to Shana, it helped her get everything she needed in one place. “Pinterest made both finding new ideas and sharing my own, so much easier. For bridal parties with people located in different places, it provides a platform to Cherish Paperie (cherishpaperie.com) designs these fan programs which are perfect for a warm climate.

visually share ideas in a very easy and fast way.”

• Because many of the products shown in the photos are linked to a blog or retail site, it’s relatively simple to find what inspires you and either buy it or duplicate it.

• Let’s say you find a dress on a website you love – for example Bari Jay (page 20)– and you want to share that gown with your bridesmaids – simply enter the url for the product into “pin it” and the photo of the product will appear. If your friends are following you on Pinterest, they will be able to comment on the “pin” to say whether or not they like it. The time consuming alternative is often sending out emails and trying to track everyone’s responses. An alternative serving option kept with the casual feel of the wedding. Photo by Chelsey Boatwright, event design by Desiree Dawn Events.

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guest BOOK A fairytale flower girl and whimsical details lend to a unique look. Food truck by Curbside Gourmet, photo by Chelsey Boatwright, flower girl dress by Kostum Designs.

This strapless, empire waist gown was exactly what the bride was looking for to complete her beach look. Gown T9389 from David's Bridal Galina collection.

• Pinterest helps brides see an overall “vision” for their wedding day in one concise place. It also allows you to brainstorm and edit as you go since you can add and remove pins easily.

• Because brides can upload their own images, it’s very in-tune to what’s going on in “today’s” bridal industry. It’s not just coming from bridal vendors trying to sell services or products, it’s coming from real brides who are planning their own experiences.

• The site also helps brides communicate with their grooms. Not everyone is a “visual” person by nature. By providing your groom with an overall look for the wedding, it might help translate your ideas into something he can understand.

• You can take photos with your smart phone and automatically upload it to a board. This might be helpful if you’re dress shopping and want some of your out-of-town bridesmaids to weigh in. Knowing she wanted a flowing cocktail length dress for her bridesmaids, this Bari Jay (style #102) dress was ideal inspiration.

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guest BOOK In lieu of footwear, barefoot sandals made her feet look pretty without kicking sand up. Barefoot sandals by Stella's Design, stellasdesign.com

When the bride went in pursuit of her destination wedding invites, she went directly to Wedding Paper Divas. Tropical Sojourn in aqua was the one she selected.

• Other websites offer things like checklists or different

The bride and groom wanted a style reflective of their personalities. Event design by Desiree Dawn Events, photo by Chelsey Boatwright, catering by Curbside Gourmet, dress by Theia Dress from Bacio Bacio Bridal Salon, groom's attire by Kohl's and flowers by Millie V’s Floral Design.

For those of you who aren’t clear on how Pinterest works

tools, but Pinterest is special. According to Shana,

or are intimidated by your initial visits to the site, here are the

“It was the only site which allowed me to manage my

Cliff Notes on getting started.

own custom content which was directly relevant to me

1. Ask someone you know who is already on Pinterest

and my wedding.”

to send you an invitation or request one through the site

• It’s not only for the DIY bride. You can be any kind

(Pinterest is currently invite-only).

of bride looking for any kind of inspiration and Pinterest

2. Once you’re on, set up your profile and begin following

can be helpful in your planning.

friends to help get your feet wet and to see what boards and

In the end, Shana’s wedding was a direct reflection of what

pins they already have to get inspired.

she wanted and had created online. “My [Pinterest] board

3. Set up your own boards by going to the upper right

was just as casual and carefree as my actual wedding.” To see how the photos shown here (which are reflective of Shana’s actual Pinterest board) translated into her actual destination wedding, go to page 112. To visit Destination I

Do on Pinterest, go to: pinterest.com/destinationido.

corner of the screen under “add.” These boards can be anything from your wedding inspiration to places you’d love to travel to for your honeymoon. Name them something brief like “Dream Honeymoon” for best results.

4. Start pinning! You can either pin another image from a If you are interested in a similar site which focuses only on wedding inspiration, check out Loverly (lover.ly). There are thousands of images available (even categorized by color) which you can add to your “bundles” (similar to a “board” on Pinterest). It’s all wedding, all the time!

friend's board to yours or do a search for whatever you’re trying to find like “destination wedding dresses.” The prompts are intuitive, so it shouldn’t be too difficult once you’re set up. If you really get stuck, ask a friend who is active on Pinterest to show you how it works like I did.

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road trip NUPTIALS

ROAD nuptials

MAINE

CALIFORNIA

NEW HAMPSHIRE

TR I P

FLORIDA

Photo courtesy of: This Modern Romance, thismodernromance.com

When couples mention the words “destination wedding,” some guests automatically assume they’ll be flying to some far-flung corner of the Earth. However, looking in your own backyard, so-to-speak, may be the best option. Destination I Do has found some amazing U.S. locales which are an easy drive from many major cities and still have all the charm and charisma any couple and their guests could want. Discover how convenience doesn’t have to mean sacrificing character and experience.

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road trip NUPTIALS

The "Other" Wine Country PASO ROBLES

Words by Jennifer Stein

Hammer Sky Vineyards

La Bellasera Hotel & Suites

Tuscany, Napa, Sonoma – these are all the places people immediately think of when the term “wine country” is used. I’d like you to get to know another one, one which may or may not be on your radar, but absolutely should be: Paso Robles in Central Coast California. When visiting Paso (as the locals call it), I met a French chef named Andre. He compared this “other" wine country to the south of France. He came to the area years ago to start a cook-

Hearst Castle

play Paso is unique to other wine regions for a few reasons. First, the Pacific Ocean is only 20 minutes away, so you can mix up your visit with a trip to the beach if you tire of wine tasting or want a change of pace. Second, major sites such as the Hearst Castle and an elephant seal sanctuary (in the town of San Simeon) are a short drive away. It’s also extremely affordable. We noted the prices for food, wine and accommodations were more than reasonable. There wasn’t a tasting we went to which was over ten dollars per person (vs. the pricier options in Napa). Those tastings included several wines - some offering up to eight different pours.

ing school and catering business (after tiring of the busy L.A.

Our favorite wineries included Niner Wine Estates (also known as

lifestyle). The first time he arrived, he felt like he was returning

Heart Hill because of the enormous grove of trees which grow in

home to Provence. What drew him to Paso was the laid-back

the shape of a heart), Castoro Cellars (they had a beautiful patio

way of life, the stunning countryside and, of course, the wine. My

and a huge selection of wines) and finally Zenaida Cellars (their

husband and I took a cooking lesson from this very French, very

barrel room is a perfect backdrop for weddings). All of these

talented man and had the most incredible meal of our entire stay.

wineries offered space for receptions both indoors and out.

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

Photos courtesy of: (top) Allyson Magda, allysonmagda.com, (bottom) La Bellasera Hotel & Suites (1st & 2nd) and Hearst Castle (3rd).

La Bellasera Hotel & Suites

road trip NUPTIALS Hammer Sky Vineyards

If you’re planning a destination wedding, check out “Dining with Andre” and sign up for a group cooking class. Photos courtesy of: (top) Allyson Magda, allysonmagda.com, (bottom, left to right) Maryann Stansfield, Chris Dennis and travelpaso.com.

eat

stay

Paso has a quaint downtown where shops, restaurants and

The accommodations in Paso vary from bed and breakfasts to

wine bars are all within walking distance from one another. We

inns and hotels. We were hosted at La Bellasera Hotel & Suites.

enjoyed a dinner out at Roberts Restaurant and Wine Bar where

The room was spacious, serene and even included an en-suite

we chatted it up with the locals and enjoyed the sumptuous food

Jacuzzi tub. The best part of La Bellasera is it’s a stone’s throw

prepared by Executive Chef Ryan Sarthout. The chicken tarfalle,

from all the major wineries in the Paso area. It’s a perfect place

ahi poke and macadamia nut crusted halibut were expertly pre-

for families to stay if in town for a destination wedding because

pared and mouth-watering.

it’s convenient to shopping, dining and the main highway.

One restaurant took us on the ultimate culinary journey – Thom-

Another property, which is ideal for honeymooners, is Hotel Che-

as Hill Organics. It has an unassuming entrance (backing into a

val. This small boutique property has only 16 rooms, is located in

side street), but as you smell the food being prepared on the way

downtown Paso and has the ultimate romantic ambiance.

to their tented outdoor patio, you realize you’re going to have more than a meal here, you will have an experience. We asked

When you’re considering a wine country romantic celebration, be

Chef Julie to bring out anything she liked along with a wine

it a destination wedding, honeymoon or a simple getaway, get

pairing. There was a surprise around every corner. Ingredients

acquainted with Paso Robles. It will most likely end up at the top

you would never think to put together created some of the most

of your list.

interesting and delicious food I’ve ever had. We left feeling satisfied and wishing we could do it all over again and again. FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

Words by Courtney Cox

Having a destination wedding doesn’t have to mean traveling thousands of miles with a shiny new passport. Your dream location may be within driving distance. Destination I Do looked to one U.S. destination which has been a place of refuge for New Englanders for over a century – the Omni Mount Washington Resort. Located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, this National Historic Landmark was opened in 1902 as the most modern “grand hotel” of the era. The Mount Washington Resort was an instant success with all the modern amenities, including a

Much like back in 1902, guests today will enjoy modern amenities, but with the history of decades past. For example, the rooms aren’t large based on today’s standards, but they’re made comfortable with vintage bathroom fixtures, cozy fireplaces and plush linens. The architecture and layout pay homage to the time in which the property was built. In the early years of the hotel, guests traveled from Boston or New York City to see-and-beseen, not to spend time in their rooms. The main staircase in the Great Hall was built to accommodate women with wide-sweeping hoop skirts and to provide a view of the hotel’s lobby – all the better to scope out the competition for “best dressed.” A tour of the property plays out much like a lesson in history: high tea in the Princess Dining Room, live music in the Conservatory and a fresh beer in the Prohibition-era speakeasy located in the basement.

Thomas Edison-designed electrical system. Edison himself made the first toast to mark the hotel’s grand opening.

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Photos courtesy of: (top to bottom, left to right) The Omni Mount Washington Resort (1st & 4th) and Courtney Cox (2nd & 3rd)

road trip NUPTIALS

Omni MountWashington Resort NEW HAMPSHIRE

getaway for the privileged of New England. Thankfully, guests no longer have to travel by train or horse-drawn carriage to reach this retreat – it’s a six hour drive from New York City and an easy three hour drive from Boston.

road trip NUPTIALS

Photo courtesy of: The Omni Mount Washington Resort

The Omni Mount Washington Resort was the original weekend

You and your destination wedding guests could stay a month and not experience all the Omni Mount Washington Resort has to offer. During winter, activities include ice skating on top of the Jewel Terrace, Nordic cross-country skiing, alpine skiing, dog sledding, snow tubing, horse-drawn carriage rides and a canopy tour through the White Mountains – to name a few. After a long day enjoying the hotel’s impossibly spacious grounds, head over to the Bretton Arms for a wonderful culinary experience. What is now a charming B&B boasting a renowned restaurant once served as the private residence for the hotel’s founder, Joseph Stickney. That seems to be a trend at the Omni Mount Washington Resort The hotel’s new 25,000 square-foot spa is the only major add-on

as it’s not hard to find loyal return-guests. I ran into a group of 11

since the property was built back in the early 1900s. Needless

couples who have come back on the same weekend for the last

to say it’s a welcome addition with meticulous decoration,

16 years! The guests and staff have found a harmonious balance

sprawling relaxation areas and, of course, an outdoor hot tub

of honoring the past while making new memories which will last

with a view of the mountains. During my stay I found myself

a lifetime. Good food, family fun and beautiful surroundings –

spending more time in this retreat than in my room – I kept

what worked back then, works just as well now. After all, why

finding a reason to go back.

mess with a good thing?

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CLEARWATER BEACH / ST. PETERSBURG • DELRAY BEACH HIGHLAND BEACH / BOCA RATON HOLLYWOOD / FT. LAUDERDALE • JUPITER • KEY LARGO • KEY WEST LIDO BEACH / SARASOTA • LONGBOAT KEY / SARASOTA

Words by J Sandifer Images by emilie inc. photography

On the southern border of my state, just over the Piscataqua River Bridge, a large sign greets visitors: “Welcome to Maine: The way life should be.”

welcomes a diverse spectrum of wedding celebrations, from

The way life should be. It’s Maine’s slogan and it’s also why

landscape which includes 3,200 miles of coastline, hundreds of

we’re such a beloved wedding destination. Maine makes the

lakes and ponds and peaks which rival any in the region. The

nearby feel exotic – though we’re just a short trip from Boston,

natural splendor creates endless opportunity to ski, hike, kayak

New York and other major cities, Maine feels worlds away from

and sail, among other adventures. Complementing the beauty

those hectic lifestyles thanks to the beauty of our landscape, the

is a quaint local culture anchored in tradition – communities

slower pace of our day and the affordability of our vendors.

are often small, close-knit and centered around marine and

classic and elegant, to natural and rustic. Whether a lavish affair or a simple gathering, any kind of wedding feels right in the state nicknamed “Vacationland.” Brides who love nature are drawn to Maine’s stunning, pristine

forest industries. But, old-fashioned doesn’t mean backwards.

There are about 9,000 weddings each year in Maine. Mainers

Take, for instance, the local, sustainable foodie scene which

are known for their creativity and independence and the state

includes chefs like Sam Hayward and Rob Evans, recognized

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

Photos courtesy of: emilie inc. photography, emilieinc.com

road trip NUPTIALS

Maine

by the James Beard Foundation as among the most innovative in the region. Still not convinced? How about this: Maine has great bang-for-your-buck. Prices for wedding vendors, food and venues tend to be much more affordable here than in places like New York City and Cape Cod. The way life should be, indeed. Hidden away as we are in the most northeastern point of the country, we have preserved the simple virtues of devotion to community and family, honest work ethic and dogged respect for the environment. Weddings here are built upon this foundation – the pillars, arguably, of lifelong romance – and guests and wedding parties often return home from "Vacationland" feeling centered and rejuvenated. TOP WEDDING VENUES IN MAINE Where are the best places to get married in Maine? From sea-spritzed Acadia National Park to the tangle of our evergreen forests, it all depends on your vision. Here are a few of my favorites: Migis Lodge Since 1916, Migis has opened its doors to guests seeking a step back from the world in a tranquil location. Their luxurious Main Photos courtesy of: emilie inc. photography, emilieinc.com

Lodge and 35 cottages are nestled amidst 125 acres of pine forest stretching along 3,500 feet of Sebago Lake shoreline in southern Maine. Laudholm Farm Consider southern Maine’s coastal gem, the Wells Reserve at Laudholm. Make a little history of your own on their property listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Newagen Seaside Inn Newagen offers a spectacular location for your intimate wedding on the water’s edge with a quintessential lighthouse, coastal islands and the crashing surf of the Atlantic Ocean as your backdrop.

road trip NUPTIALS French’s Point

or softly falling snow, there are few backdrops more idyllic than

French’s Point is a private estate offering timeless elegance for

Peaks Island on Casco Bay.

life’s paramount events. Located on Penobscot Bay on the tip of a private penisula surrounded by breaking waves, boreal waters,

Grace

manicured gardens and acres of Maine’s wild beach roses.

The circa 1856-57 church building is on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the few surviving examples of early

Samoset

Gothic Revival style in Portland. Simple beauty, sublime space

Just south of Camden cradled between lush green hills and the

and superb food make Grace the perfect spot to hold a wedding

blue waters of Penobscot Bay, lies the Samoset Resort. Take in

in the city.

the beauty of the scenic Maine coastline, enjoy cocktails and companionship on their luxurious lawn and dance the night away

The Colony Hotel

in one of their grand ballrooms.

Spectacular ocean views, natural beauty, cool sea breezes, the

Inn by the Sea can accommodate weddings for up to 150 people in their ocean-view rooms or tented on the lawn. With

Hotel’s weddings. The historic hotel is within walking distance of the charming village of Kennebunkport.

spectacular views from all function locations, Inn by the Sea provides a dramatic and memorable backdrop for weddings. The Barn at Walnut Hill An exquisite 1887 Maine barn and farmhouse which marries rusticity with refinement and provides a setting which is at once simply elegant and elegantly simple. Inn on Peaks Island Infused with fresh ocean breezes, Maine island charm and native wildflowers, surrounded by summer island warmth, fall foliage

Love and Lobster Planning a wedding in Maine couldn’t be easier than with these local resources: Real Maine Weddings magazine covers the ins and outs of the wedding world here and can be shipped all over the country. The Portland CVB is a great resource for speaking with someone passionate about Maine weddings in person, so ask for Celeste (visitportland.com). We also have our very own online wedding guide with The Maine Wedding Co (maineweddingguide.com) and for visual temptations of weddings on the coast make sure to check out the Maine wedding blog loveandlobster.com!

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

Photos courtesy of: emilie inc. photography, emilieinc.com

sound of the sea and a sense of history distinguish The Colony

Inn by the Sea

Find Love in All the Right Places WaterColorResort.com | 866-426-2656 | Santa Rosa Beach, FL | Visit: facebook.com/WaterColorWeddings

Big Moments are Better when Shared Imagine your ceremony on a beautiful island beach with sparkling turquoise-blue waters in the background. The tropical wedding and reception of your dreams will come true at Sheraton Nassau Beach Resort & Casino. Enjoy romantic walks along our golden beach, share some fun in our neighboring casino or simply lounge poolside. Make your wedding or honeymoon one to remember—forever.

Book at sheratonnassau.com/weddings or call 954 624 1781.

road trip NUPTIALS

Florida

PGA National Resort Words by Courtney Cox

players in the world struggle through the infamous three-hole stretch known as the “Bear Trap.” With tens of thousands of people flocking to the resort each day, the tournament taught me one thing – the PGA National Resort sure can handle a party. Needless to say, the resort is prime when it comes to planning destination weddings. It’s extremely popular due to its lovely accommodations, luxurious spa and, of course, the five worldclass golf courses. Due to the sometimes unpredictable Florida weather, they boast a plethora of both indoor and outdoor venues. I attended several catered events during my stay and the food was stellar: fresh seafood, sushi, prime-cut steaks and delectable desserts. I have complete faith the resort could make your dream wedding menu a reality. By the time this issue of Destination I Do is in your hands, the resort will have completed a full room and spa renovation. The 40,000 square-foot spa is unique with its “Waters of the World”

With its Palm Beach Gardens, Florida location, the PGA Resort is

outdoor mineral pools. The five signature golf courses will also

an easy drive for most southeastern locals. It’s a three hour drive

have undergone a facelift with new turf, bunkers and tee boxes.

south of Orlando and seven hours south of Savannah. The resort is located minutes from world-class shopping and restaurants,

Between the unbelievable golf and relaxing spa, there’s no

not to mention some of the prettiest golf courses in the world.

doubt your destination wedding guests will stay engaged and

However, if you and your guests have the pleasure of staying at

satisfied during their stay. This AAA Four Diamond Resort’s lobby

the PGA National Resort & Spa, there won’t be much need to go

is happening every night with live music, plush seating areas and

anywhere else.

a view of the gorgeous pool. While the resort has lots to offer, there’s no getting around the fact that golf is their game. So, if

I was lucky enough to visit the resort during the 2012 PGA

you’ve got golf enthusiasts on your guest list, then look

Tour Honda Classic which is played every year on the resort’s

no further than the PGA National Resort and Spa for your

Champion course. For four days I watched some of the best

destination wedding.

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

Photos courtesy of: PGA National Resort & Spa

Part of the challenge of planning a destination wedding is choosing a location which all of your guests will enjoy. There are a few things in life which most people love unconditionally: good food, family and golf. While you may not love the game of golf yourself, it’s a virtual guarantee you have someone close to you who does. Fortunately, there’s one destination which meets all of these requirements come W-day – the PGA National Resort & Spa.

This is definitely the for better part.

Do you promise to go diving or snorkeling together, try flats fishing and kayaking along pristine mangrove shorelines? Will you take an ecotour, and enjoy breathtaking sunsets while dining on fresh seafood? And will you spend time hand in hand, forging a bond that will last a lifetime? If you commit to all of the above, say I do to Key Largo. fla-keys.com/keylargo 1.800.822.1088 IS KEY W EST

BIG PINE KEY & THE LOWER KEYS

MAR

N AT H O

M LA

caribbean

Your Own Private Paradise

ST. JOHN, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS:

Words by John Roark

It is the smallest and, many will argue, the most charming island in the Caribbean. St. John is secluded, affluent and echoes a history thousands of years strong.

On land originally developed in the 1950s by Laurance

massage or simply nap away the afternoon in a beachside

Rockefeller on the northwest side of St. John, Caneel Bay

hammock. Whatever you choose, you’ve found a perfect

awaits like a beautiful secret. Turquoise waters are embraced by

paradise to call your own and to return to often.

seven sugar-white beaches and 170 acres of unspoiled beauty with accommodations blending unobtrusively into the tropical

WEDDINGS AT CANEEL BAY

landscape. You’ll find casual, unpretentious luxury far removed

For couples considering a destination wedding, Caneel Bay

from the outside world – there is no phone or television in your

offers an experience unmatched in the Caribbean – whatever

room (your wake-up call is a friendly knock on your door). You’ll

your budget.

soon surrender to the tranquility and marvel over your cell phone “Many of our weddings are very simple, incorporating the beauty

once seeming so essential to your survival. During your stay at this picture-book enclave, you will

Curator, Vera Payne-Powell. “Others are more lavish, with

undoubtedly meet guests who have been returning for years,

couples flying in florists from New York to completely transform

even decades, and you’ll soon understand why. Immediately

the environment. The great thing is you don’t need to spend

upon your arrival you are among friends and your visit will

masses of money creating ‘the look’ when all that is inherent to

resonate among your most treasured romantic travel memories.

the surroundings. Whatever the resources or the personalities

How to while away your time presents a diverse array of choices.

involved, we have the quintessential ‘tropical paradise’ many

World-class tennis with gorgeous mountain views, watersports

couples envision – white sand, turquoise water, palm trees, lush

(including some of the Caribbean’s most prized scuba and

greenery and scented breezes.”

snorkeling) and yoga, will warm you up. Relax with a seaside

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

Photo courtesy of: Caneel Bay

of our environment as a backdrop,” says Caneel Romance

caribbean

"The great thing is you don’t need to spend masses of money creating ‘the look’ when all that is inherent to the surroundings."

Whatever wedding you imagine, your day will belong to you: the

how to re-create your breathtaking view and return home with

resort will never schedule more than one event per day. Another

a one-of-a-kind work of art.

bonus: as part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, visitors from the States won’t need to worry about passports when entering St. John.

EXPLORE

Named one of the Caribbean’s 10 best hikes, Reef Bay Trail is TASTE

a fascinating trek through some of St. John’s most beautiful

Caneel Bay boasts a variety of elegant and casual dining

landscapes. Choose a number of different trails led by a

choices; the jewel in the crown is The Sugar Mill, open-air fine

knowledgeable park ranger and journey into the history and

dining in the resort’s 18th century sugar mill ruin. Executive Chef

culture of the island. Don’t miss: The petroglyphs. Ancient

Michael Vargas has created dishes which introduce guests to

carvings found on rocks surrounding an ancient pool are

the herbs, spices and natural resources native to St. John and

believed to have been created by the Taino Indians between

the Virgin Islands. Evening attire required. Don’t miss: Afternoon

1200 and 1400, A.D.

Photos courtesy of: Caneel Bay

tea served daily on the verandah at Turtle Bay Estate House. A variety of hot and iced coffees, teas and fresh-baked pastries

CRUZ BAY

welcome you to this lovely daily ritual.

Located on the west coast of St. John and a quick drive from Caneel Bay, Cruz Bay is the island’s center for shopping

CREATE

and dining. Friendly and safe day or night. Don’t miss: La

Commemorate your experience with a private art lesson with

Tapa; eclectic elegance with warm rustic ambiance featuring

one of Caneel Bay’s artists in residence. You’ll learn step-by-step

contemporary Mediterranean cuisine with Chef Alexandra Ewald’s own personal interpretation.

FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

caribbean

Wellness Retreat BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS:

If you’re like most brides, there’s a good chance you’ve invested more than a few hours at the gym getting your prewedding workout on. Wondering how to keep the momentum going once the festivities get underway? You’re not alone. 36

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

Photo courtesy of: Rosewood Little Dix Bay

Words by Sarah Padilla

caribbean

"The beautiful surroundings here are the perfect backdrop to inspire guests to be healthy and active." Believe it or not, it is possible to pull off a destination wedding or

kettlebell conditioning sessions and self-massage techniques.

honeymoon without packing on the pounds.

Both include a visit to Sense, the resort’s cliff-side spa.

In response to a rise in “wellness tourism,” a growing number

“I think the best getaways are the ones where you return feeling

of resorts are introducing services and packages which cater to

refreshed and rejuvenated,” says Frank Baptiste, owner of

clientele who want to combine their love of travel and adventure

Frankly Fitness in New York City and facilitator of the fitness

with their desire to satisfy the mind, body and spirit.

immersion package. “Therapeutic spa treatments can do wonders and integrating a mobility component completes the

Rosewood Little Dix Bay, located on Virgin Gorda in the pristine

holistic wellness approach.”

British Virgin Islands, began offering a variety of wellness Photos courtesy of: Rosewood Little Dix Bay

retreats in 2011. “The Wellness Retreats provide all our guests,

If a full-blown wellness retreat isn’t in your budget, as all-inclusive

regardless of fitness level, with the opportunity to feel completely

packages can get pricey, there are other ways to keep the love

renewed while reconnecting with nature,” said Duncan Hogarth,

handles at bay. Take advantage of free local amenities like water

General Manager. “The beautiful surroundings here are the

sports, swimming, tennis or hiking. Or, explore your surroundings

perfect backdrop to inspire guests to be healthy and active.”

by foot or bike instead of by car.

Little Dix Bay guests can book one of several wellness-inspired

Keep in mind, though, wellness is ultimately about balance. So, if

packages each year. A yoga retreat offers multiple classes a day

you’d rather snuggle under the covers with your sweetie, do just

for varying levels and a fitness immersion retreat promises to rev-

that. After all, when it comes to newlyweds, sometimes staying in

up metabolism and work out stress-related kinks through unique

is the best workout of all.

FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

Caribbean Indulgence

ST. REGIS BAHIA BEACH RESORT, PUERTO RICO:

One evening I was strolling hand-in-hand with the love of my life along the raised wooden pathways through the lush grounds of the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort listening to the sound of the coqui (tiny frogs which call Puerto Rico home). I felt like I was in a place so perfect it couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be real. In actuality, I was only 30 minutes from historic San Juan, but the romantic, idyllic setting and indulgent pampering St. Regis is known for had taken its effect and I had been totally swept away. 38

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

Photo courtesy of: St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort

caribbean

Words by Carolyn Steere

caribbean

Don’t miss the extraordinary nearby Fajardo Bioluminescent Bay where nighttime kayaking is a favorite.

Photos courtesy of: St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort

A mature Caribbean coconut plantation was carefully preserved

Most of us don’t know what it is like to have our every request

as the beautiful St. Regis Bahia Beach was constructed on the

met within minutes, but it does not take long to appreciate the

northeastern end of the island of Puerto Rico and at the foot of

en-suite butler service perfected by the St. Regis. Tired from the

the El Yunque National Forest. Needless to say, an abundance of

day and need a ride to dinner? A driver in a golf cart magically

flowers, orchids, trees, ferns and all manner of birds and ani-

appears at the door to your suite. Decide to sleep in and have

mals bless the landscape. Miles of nature trails, kayak outings,

breakfast in bed? Morning coffee and pastries delivered within

oceanside golf, a sandy coastline and lavish pool…all on the

minutes. Your favorite shirt is wrinkled from the journey? No

resort’s grounds, make for daytime fun without venturing past

problem, they will take care of it right away….and always with a

the front gate. The resort’s culinary staff were genius in creating

genuine smile and sincere desire to meet your every need.

sumptuous dishes and tropical cocktails in each of their on-propThe same flawless attention to detail can be enjoyed when

erty restaurants.

planning a destination wedding at the St. Regis Bahia Beach Our exquisitely furnished suite was appointed with every amenity

Resort. From a 9,000 square-foot expansive estate lawn with the

imaginable, including comfy bed linens, an oversized soaking

ocean for a backdrop, to grand ballrooms, the St. Regis is able

tub, double shower, LCD TVs and high-end electronics every-

to accommodate weddings of all sizes. One of my favorites was

where you turned. A private terrace with a spectacular ocean

the secluded and charming wedding pavilion, tucked away in a

view allowed us to cozy up and enjoy the afternoon rain each

magnificent tropical setting, but only steps from the main resort.

day. It truly felt like a retreat. For an unforgettable destination wedding or a romantic honeymoon which exceeds expectations, there is no address like the St. Regis. FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

Cancun Palace Resort

weddings YOUR WAY

the All-Inclusive

COLIN COWIE "COLIN-IZES"

If you’ve been researching tropical settings for your destination wedding, it’s likely you have seen all-inclusive wedding packages. While these can be convenient and hands-off, they can feel “cookie-cutter” and limited. This is just one of the reasons why Colin Cowie, one of the World’s foremost experts in wedding planning, chose to join forces with a group of Mexican and Caribbean all-inclusive resorts. He has partnered with Palace Resort properties throughout Cancun and Rivera Maya and the all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotel properties in Punta Cana and Riviera Maya.

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

Photo courtesy of: Cancun Palace Resort

Words by Courtney Cox

weddings YOUR WAY

"Seaglass" Package

Colin Cowie

Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana

Aventura Cove Spa Palace

Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana

"Lavender Luxe" Package

Photos courtesy of: (top to bottom, left to right) Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana (1st 2nd & 5th), Courtney Cox (3rd) and Aventura Cove Spa Palace (4th & 6th)

"Style today is more about mixing and less about matching." “We have designed 18 over-the-top, fabulous customized pack-

trying to avoid. Instead of trying to be "everything to everyone”

ages to give the bride and groom a high dose of ‘Colin Cowie’

the group has carefully edited and curated each design so it can

style,” says the creator. This is the first partnership of its kind

be easily dressed up or dressed down to meet each bride’s own

between Colin and a third-party brand. The desire came from

taste. The Palace Resort packages were designed and inspired

him wanting to take his planning and designing skills past the

around the natural beauty of Mexico and include options like

celebrity and into the realm of the everyday bride. With these

Exotic Peacock, Romantic Red, Sultry Sunset and Pure White.

new collections, each and every bride will feel and be treated

Some options at the participating Hard Rock Hotel properties

like a star.

include Metallic Dunes, Rocker Chic, White Rosette and Seaglass – each meant to leave you inspired just like the music which has

Each package includes everything from the ceremony set-up to

so influenced the hotel brand.

the champagne and chair covers. The looks all feature handcrafted details, interesting textures and romantic rituals such as a

No doubt Colin Cowie could have gone to anyone, anywhere to

ribbon ceremony in which guests each sign a ribbon to decorate

create similar packages, but he chose Mexico, the Caribbean and

the ceremony pergola. “Style today is more about mixing and

these resorts for a specific reason. Colin was honest in saying

less about matching,” says Colin. “No one else is doing this, [a

that, for a couple, his design is only a fraction of their destination

bride] isn’t going to get this [customization] anywhere else. We’re

wedding experience. The service they receive from the moment

really listening.”

they step out of their car should be nothing but spectacular. A feat Colin feels is easily accomplished with Palace Resorts and

It was exactly the simple, basic all-inclusive wedding packages

Hard Rock Hotels. “Everything the couple smells, touches, feels,

which Colin Cowie, Palace Resorts and Hard Rock Hotels were

tastes and sees has to meet their overall wedding vision.”

FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

ask THE EXPERT

the inside scoop on all-inclusives

1. If we have our wedding at an all-inclusive, will it save

airlines, the more rooms available, the lower the rate; the fewer

us money or end up costing us more in the long run?

available, the higher the rate. Because of our high volume,

All-inclusive resorts are definitely a money saver. Many all-

DestinationWeddings.com can oftentimes get group pricing two

inclusive resorts specialize in weddings and offer amenities such

and sometimes three years in advance of the wedding date.

as free wedding packages, group functions, etc. to couples who

This allows couples the opportunity to lock in rates based on

choose their resort. Since food and beverage is included, the

the current year and room availability would not be a factor.

additional cost to a couple for rehearsal dinners or receptions

This option represents a savings over booking six or 12 months

can be free to a minimal surcharge for a private event. This

before the wedding date. The other advantage couples have in

cost savings can be used for other wedding related costs such

confirming a group room block this far in advance is it assures

as music, flowers, etc. which allows a couple to really have the

everyone in the wedding party pays the same low rate.

wedding of their dreams. Another great aspect of all-inclusive resorts is your guests have no hidden costs. When booking in

3. I’ve heard about the Colin Cowie designs at Palace

advance, DestinationWeddings.com offers an EasyPayment Plan™

Resorts – won’t that cost a fortune since he’s a celebrity

which allows guests to pay out the land portion of their travel in

wedding planner?

advance, so your guests can truly put their wallets in their en-

Palace Resorts, All-Inclusive Hard Rock Hotels in Mexico and

room safes and not worry about spending extra money during

the Dominican Republic and LeBlanc Spa Resort in Cancun

the wedding event.

contracted with Colin Cowie to design weddings for their resorts. Each of the three brands offer a different collection for couples

2. How much does the day we choose for the wedding effect the cost? The day and date may come into play and can differ based on the destination. Usually, pricing is based on low season, shoulder season and high season so this will effect pricing. However, room availability at resorts is a more important factor

to choose from. Colin’s designs are all amazing and diverse so they offer couples great options. Even more exciting is you don’t have to be amongst the rich and famous to have a Colin Cowie themed wedding as these resorts have packages starting from free – yes, free – and are customizable to each couple’s budget and desires.

and possibly controllable. Generally speaking, not unlike the

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Photo courtesy of: iStock, image #000018326671, © Roberto A Sanchez

There’s no shortage of opinions about the all-inclusive experience, but we referred to an expert to give you the straight-laced facts about holding your destination wedding at an all-inclusive resort. Chief Operating Officer of DestinationWeddings.com, Ed Cotton, breaks down the details of what’s included, the benefits and the best-kept secrets of how to get the most bang for your buck – all-inclusive style.

ask THE EXPERT

4. Friends keep warning me that using a travel agent or

factors before choosing to book you, or your guests through

wedding planner will eat up a lot of my budget and we should

an online travel agency. First, the online pricing is probably

plan it ourselves to save money. Is this true?

not going to be the same for all guests in your wedding party

Absolutely not true. I cannot speak about other companies, but

and may increase the closer you get to your wedding date. As

DestinationWeddings.com does not charge anything for our

mentioned earlier, the best savings and assurance that everyone

services. We require a $50 commitment deposit in order to be

in your wedding party will have a room, is to do a group room-

assigned to one of our certified destination wedding specialists.

block as early in the process as you can. The savings can be very

That $50 is then used towards the couple’s final payment for

substantial. Also, and very, very important, many of the online

their travel. More importantly, a wedding is the single most

travel agencies overbook and do not have contracts with the

important event for a couple. Our level of service and advice

resorts on how reservations should be handled in an overbooked

comes from the fact that we specialize in destination weddings.

situation. DestinationWeddings.com only works with wholesalers

To date we have helped coordinate over 13,000 destination

who have terms in their resort contracts on how guests booking

weddings and arranged the travel for over 500,000 guests to

through them should be handled in an oversold situation. In the

attend those weddings. We have almost 200 certified destination

nine years we have been in business I cannot tell you how many

wedding specialists located throughout the United States and

times we have had frantic calls from a bride or groom about a

Canada who are not only excellent at what they do, they have

guest who booked their travel on their own through an online

the expertise as all they do is destination weddings. Additionally,

travel agency. These guests got to the hotel only to find out they

the vast majority of resorts offer free wedding coordinator

did not have a room and were being relocated to another hotel

services. These wedding coordinators will work with the couple

sometimes 50 or more miles away. Unfortunately, there was

in choosing their décor and menu for their special day.

nothing we could do to help at that point since we did not handle

5. Can’t I just use the Internet to book my destination wedding

the original reservation. It is always important to remember this

at an all-inclusive? If the packages are offered on the property’s

together at the same resort to share in the wedding festivities.

website, won’t I be getting the same thing a destination

Sometimes what seemed innocent and worthwhile can put a

wedding specialist would be getting me?

damper on the event.

is a wedding and everyone attending most likely wants to be

Our pricing is very competitive with Internet pricing, oftentimes better. However, it is important to realize several important

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www.LizFields.com

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"Only once in your life, I truly believe, you find someone who can completely turn your world around." fashion FORWARD

- Bob Marley

This page: Our bride and groom are a perfect pairing as they stroll the grounds of Hammer Sky Vineyards post-nuptials. She is wine country chic in a bridal gown and lace bolero both by Jenny Yoo. Her fishtail braid and elegant makeup by Rhonda Johnson are perfectly highlighted by a Lo Boheme veil. Opposite page: This barn pristinely placed among the rolling hills of Hammer Sky Vineyards is the perfect setting for an intimate cocktail hour and reception.

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W I NE

O UN

TRY

fashion FORWARD

outure

PHOTOGRAPHY: ALLYSON MAGDA PHOTOGRAPHY, PLANNING/DESIGN: ANTONIA CHRISTIANSON EVENTS, PRODUCTION: BE INSPIRED

PR, FLORAL DESIGN: COUTURE FLORAL AND EVENT DESIGN, BRIDAL GOWN, LACE BOLERO AND BRIDESMAID DRESS: JENNY YOO, VEIL AND HAIR ACCESSORIES: LO BOHEME, WEDDING RING: DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH, HAIR/MAKEUP: RHONDA JOHNSON, MENSWEAR: KOHL’S, STATIONERY: CHERISH PAPERIE, VENUE: HAMMER SKY VINEYARDS, PASO ROBLES, CALIFORNIA, CAKE/CUPCAKES IN A JAR:

CUPCAKES COUTURE OF MANHATTAN BEACH, WINE: ONEHOPE WEDDINGS, SEQUIN LINENS: LA TAVOLA, TABLE RUNNERS/NAPKINS: ANTONIA CHRISTIANSON EVENTS.

FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

3 fashion FORWARD 3: This cabernet bouquet with burlap wrap detail is the perfect statement for a wine country couture wedding. It was created with smoke bush, variegated plum and green lady slipper orchids, lambâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ear, clematis vine, aborigine ranunculus and burgundy scabiosa blooms by Couture Floral and Event Design.

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4 5

6 7

4: The reception’s floral centerpieces are complemented by chocolate-colored artichokes and naturally vibrant moss – adding an earthy element to the tablescape. 5: ONEHOPE Wines were offered at the cocktail hour’s “sippin’ station.” Half the proceeds of every bottle of ONEHOPE goes to various charities – affording couples a new, fun and delicious way to give back. Each bottle represents a different cause i.e. Chardonnay for Breast Cancer Awareness and Merlot for the Fight Against AIDS. 6: The wine country-inspired stationery embraces the colors of the day with deep purples and earthy taupes. The designs were created by the lovelies at Cherish Paperie and play up the locale with menu cards backed with cork, olive branch detail and a beautiful, informal script. 7: Oatmeal-colored pashminas keep away the chill while serving as favors for the couple’s grateful guests.

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8 9 10

8: This reception setup is sure to please even the most discerning of guests. The barn doors remain open to show off the stunning view of the Hammer Sky Vineyards, while diners sit down at a tablescape fit for a king. After all, purple is the color of royalty. A mixture of chairs adds to the rustic feel of the event. 9: Once the sun sets, the table will be set aglow by wine bottles filled with candles and the sparkle will only enhance the cabernet colored dinnerware. The table centerpiece is a reflection of the brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bouquet with plum leaves, brambling clematis vine, lambâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ear, fiddlehead fern, burgundy scabiosa and aborigine ranunculus and were created by Couture Floral and Event Design.

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11 12 13

10 (opposite page): A natural burlap table runner complements the wood-grain dining table perfectly and is a neutral backdrop for a pop of purple from the floral centerpiece, decorative chocolate artichokes and sparkling dinnerware. 11: The men’s boutonnieres are a simplistic version of the flora of the day contrasted against a natural wood charger. Created by Couture Floral and Event Design, they include lamb’s ear and scabiosa buds wrapped with twine. 12: For our cliché-free wine country couture, only simple elegance will do. A sandycolored cake with gold accents and a deep plum sugar flower was designed by Cupcakes Couture of Manhattan Beach. 13-14: A “sippin’ station” wouldn’t be complete without delicious breads and cheeses. A rustic table is created using a wood plank and easy-to-find wine barrels. Wine by ONEHOPE is a charitable addition to the décor and a welcome palette cleanser for guests.

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15 fashion FORWARD

"To the world you may be just one person, but to one person you may be the world." - Brandi Snyder

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fashion FORWARD

15 (opposite page): This ceremony setup highlights the wine country setting both with a gorgeous backdrop of rolling vines and wine barrels transformed into clever seating. Attendants join in on the party in a bridesmaids dress by Jenny Yoo and suit found at Kohl’s. The bridesmaid’s bouquet is of the same flora as the bride’s bouquet, but tied with simple twine. Her hairpiece is also by Lo Boheme. 16: Our bride takes a moment to bask in the glow of her wedding day. Her lace bolero and bridal gown, both by Jenny Yoo, are a perfect balance of trendy and traditional. Her veil by Lo Boheme is made modern with a flirty fishtail braid.

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17 18

19 20 17: Our bridesmaid is picture-perfect in a dress by Jenny Yoo and hairpiece by Lo Boheme. 18: Our bride forgoes the traditional clear diamond for a yellow gold ring featuring a cognac, rough cut diamond courtesy of Diamond in the Rough. 19: Bottles of ONEHOPE Wine double as table numbers and self-serve beverages. An aborigine number is stenciled on a burlap bottle sleeve to mimic the colorway and rusticity of the tablescape.

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“A woman knows the face of the man she loves as a sailor knows the open sea.”

- Honore de Balzac

say

20 (opposite page): Red is the flavor of the day as our attendants take a break from the celebrations. He is classic in a gray suit from Kohl’s and she is lovely in an eggplant-colored dress by Jenny Yoo and a feather hair accessory by Lo Boheme. 21: Our bride and groom enjoy a quiet moment together near their ceremony site made up of wine barrels for seating amidst vibrant vines as a backdrop. Her wedding look is refined by combining a lace bolero with her bridal gown, both by Jenny Yoo. Her bouquet by Couture Floral and Event Design is the perfect representation of wine country couture.

with us! ambergris caye belize, c.a. US & Canada 1-800-688-0191 sunbreeze@btl.net www.sunbreeze.net

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family-friendly DESTINATIONS

Island-Hopping Families in Hawaii IDEAL PROPERTIES FOR

Words by Jennifer Stein

This past May, I officially became a traveling parent of a nine-month old. We’ve traveled with our son before, but most of the destinations were family homes and not really far from where we live. When we decided on our Hawaiian family sojourn, I was a little skeptical on how it would play out since we wouldn’t have the “comforts of home” on our side. I worried for nothing.

Our first stop was at The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas. I knew they had a full kitchen in each villa, but beyond that, I wasn’t aware of how “family-friendly” this place really was. First of all, when you check in it feels like a vacation resort, not the typical “timeshare condo” I was expecting. The signature Westin scent greets you as you enter the open-air lobby and the entire atmosphere feels very “Hawaii.” When we made our way to our luxury appointed villa, we were pleased with the hotel feel coupled with the homey amenities. The kitchen was larger than ours at home, it had a full-size refrigerator (which when you stay a week with a little one, you need every inch of) and the usual Westin trademarks such as the oversized Jacuzzi tub, Heavenly bed (and crib) and modern, elegant furniture. Our lanai overlooked both the ocean and one of the several pools on property, giving us a perfectly stunning view.

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Photos courtesy of: The Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas, Jennifer Stein (bottom right).

The Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas

We decided to take a little tour of the 26-acre beach-front

family-friendly DESTINATIONS

property with their Director of Public Relations, Sumithra Balraj. She pointed out the many perks families can take advantage of including the award-winning restaurant (Pulehu), the dedicated children’s pool and a five-dollar grocery stocking option. For this small fee, a Westin staff member will shop for you and when you arrive, you have a fully stocked kitchen! They also offer short-cut meals which are pre-made and available for purchase, or in-room dining which most vacation rentals don’t offer. The on-site spa is nothing short of indulgent. Spa Helani offers a seductively relaxing atmosphere with couples' treatment rooms

The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

and even a “tree-house” treatment room which rivals most I’ve seen in other parts of the world. The massage I experienced was long overdue (schlepping a nine-month old across the Pacific makes one’s shoulders a little tight) and deserves mention. Photos courtesy of: (top to bottom) The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas (1st & 3rd) and The Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas (2nd).

Sumithra pointed out that the Westin does their best to “customize their offerings to meet people’s needs.” This couldn’t be more true. The only reason I wasn’t heartbroken to leave Maui and the Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas was because we were headed to another Westin Villa property in Princeville, Kaua’i. The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas are different in a few ways. They still have the signature “Westin” stamp on the décor, scent and luxury details, but because of the way they’re laid out, the accommodations feel more like villas than hotel rooms. There are still several pools, but the vibe is a little more laid-back and relaxed (like Kaua’i in general). The property lies about 200 feet above the ocean on the North Shore of Kaua’i, so if you’re looking for beach time, you’ll have to head over via shuttle (which is still very convenient) to the sister property – the St. Regis Princeville. We didn’t miss having the beach on-site one bit and truly enjoyed the lush, garden setting the property offered. The Westin’s market, bars and restaurant met every need we had and Nanea Restaurant offered, “the best Loco Moco” my husband has ever eaten. We decided to grill one night and shopped at their market where they offer a plethora of marinated meats and poultry, vegetables and anything you’ll need to whip The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

up your own barbeque. Staying at either of these properties is a must – children in tow or not. Both offer wedding and romantic honeymoon options. They are an ideal place to have all your wedding party stay because the feeling is intimate and mimics home in more ways than one. It’s a perfect marriage of home and vacation in one, all set in paradise. What else could you ask for?

FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

family-friendly DESTINATIONS

Sandpiper Bay CLUB MED

Words by Courtney Cox

Every couple’s ideal destination wedding is different, but for some, accommodating family is of the utmost importance. If this is the case for you, look no further than Club Med Sandpiper Bay for a luxurious, family-friendly destination. Located in Sandpiper Bay, Florida, this is the only Club Med property in the United States. The brand began in France, now has 80 locations worldwide and is the perfect place to get the European feel minus the international flight. Club Med Sandpiper Bay is perfect for destination weddings as

basketball. None of the activities are mandatory, but participation

it’s the only all-inclusive family resort in the country and offers

is encouraged as the brand defines itself as, “Not just a vacation

a bevy of activities to keep you and your loved ones busy. The

– a transformation.” Greg Breunich, Director of the Club Med

best way to describe Club Med is a summer camp for adults –

Academies, elaborates on the brand’s philosophy: “We’ve

meet new people from all over the World while branching out

brought learning into the leisure world. In the short term, we’re

and trying new things. Send the kids to circus school to learn

very, very good at changing your world.”

gymnastics and trapeze while you enjoy a golf or tennis lesson. L’OCCITANE-branded spa in the states. Post-sunset and once

Academies is included in your stay. You only pay extra if you

your younger guests have gone to bed, let loose at Club Med’s

want one-on-one attention. Speaking of lessons, some of the

Slice Bar where you’ll find a nightlife which is hard to match. The

World’s leading instructors call Club Med home. Visit the Golf

resort instructors kick-back with the guests, so don’t be surprised

Academy to rub elbows with Golf Channel’s Brad Brewer who

if you meet your sailing instructor on the dance floor and your

was mentored by Arnold Palmer, or swing over to the Tennis

golf coach in the dining room. This employee/guest interaction

Academy to attend a class designed by Gabe Jaramillo who is

reinforces the summer camp vibe and grants you the opportunity

responsible for developing eight number ones including Andre

to meet interesting folks from all over the World.

Agassi and Monica Seles. With so much daily activity, it goes without saying Club Med

Unlike some resorts, Club Med doesn’t cater to just children

could handle any destination wedding demand you could throw

or adults, but both. While you’re tearing it up on the court or

their way. Say “I do” on the beach or in one of the many state-of-

course, the kiddos can enjoy cooking lessons, sailing school, the

the-art facilities on-site. What you’ll get here is the family vacation

BRITTO Art Center or lessons in tennis, golf, soccer, hockey and

of a lifetime all capped off with a trip down the aisle!

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Photos courtesy of: Club Med Sandpiper Bay

After a day full of activities, relax in the Club Med Spa – the first Best of all, the world-class instruction at each of the Club Med

Pre-Planned Parties

Words by Courtney Cox

G et M arried in H awaii!

Let Classic Vacations and your All About Honeymoons Consultant handle all the details of your destination wedding while you and your guests discover a world of luxury, exclusive privileges and exceptional experiences.

Book 15 RoomS oR moRe and Receive: Photo by Audi Taraldsen

When planning a bachelor party, don’t automatically assume you have to create the perfect event from the ground up. Why not take advantage of pre-planned events which are ideal for the groom? My boyfriend and I recently attended the 2012 PGA Tour Honda Classic in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida and I quickly realized – this would be an awesome bachelor weekend!

FREE 1st Class air on United Airlines Complimentary resort credit Complimentary room upgrade to a suite Complimentary upgrade to a convertible car

A stay at the PGA National Resort on the first weekend in March 2013 is guaranteed to be a guy-friendly, once-in-a-lifetime experience. During my stay for the 2012 tournament we met former PGA Tour player and Golf Channel analyst Frank Nobilo in the hallway and rubbed elbows with professional players

To find your local Romance Travel Specialist visit our website at

www.allabouthoneymoons.com today

unwinding at the resort bar after a long day on the course. This is just one example of how to take advantage of preplanned events to double as a bachelor/ bachelorette party. Other options might include a beer or music festival, Mardi Gras or summer concert series. There’s no need to do all the work yourself...

...happy planning!

Offers are valid on new bookings and apply to the wedding couple only. May not be combinable with other offers. Book through 12/15/12, travel through 12/13/13. A minimum of 15 rooms required in order to qualify for offer inclusions. Free first class air on United Airlines is for the wedding couple only. Customer is responsible for cancellation fees once complimentary airline tickets have been issued. Complimentary airfare not valid for travel 12/18/12-01/02/13. Complimentary car upgrade valid only through Alamo when booking a full-size car. Offers are subject to availability at time of booking and may be changed or discontinued without notice. Blackout dates, minimum night stays, room category restrictions, seasonal surcharges, taxes, resort fees and other restrictions may apply. Customer is responsible for hotel taxes and fees on free night offers. Classic Vacations CST: 2079429-20. 374-0612

dearly BELOVED

Embrace Your Destination Wedding Style for Your Pre-Wedding Party Words by Sharon Naylor

Photos by John & Joseph Photography, Jkhphoto.com

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dearly BELOVED

When guests arrive for your destination wedding, wow them with a themed welcome party inspired by the locale, the local culture and your own customcreated wedding style elements (a plan which is way better than just telling guests to meet up at the hotel bar!)s

1. Surfboards captured the essence of Hawaiian lifestyle and also gave a nod to the couple’s love of the ocean. They originally met at a yachting event, where Alli’s team narrowly defeated Michael’s. For this party, Weiss embraced the couple’s love story with surfboards used as tabletops and also displayed them around the perimeter of the party, uplit for a colorful effect.

2. Departing from the usual luau set-up of all long tables, Weiss arranged for four different levels of seating: low surfboards as tables, traditional tablecloth-covered tables, cocktail tables and

Check out what celebrity Event Planner Mindy Weiss brought

thick, comfy beach blankets with oversized, fluffy pillows. The

to life for New York City restaurateur couple Alli and Michael for

design magic here is in the fabrics: notice the burlap-wrapped

their pre-wedding party attended by 150 very impressed guests.

cocktail tabletops and the neutral sand-colored beach-stool

“To welcome their guests to Hawaii, Michael and Alli decided to

cushions which blended in with the wood accents and let the

throw a beach luau party,” says Weiss. But it wasn’t the typical

variety of colorful, floral beach blankets and oversized pillows

luau found at every resort. The couple, with Weiss’s brilliant

really "pop" as festive hues for the party. Weiss played with color

eye for design, gave each party element a unique twist by

and pattern in fabrics, which gave each seating area personality.

incorporating modern Hawaiian-island style. Here’s how the trio turned this beach luau into an unforgettable event:

3. Lighting was one of the elements Alli and Michael wished to focus on most. Weiss illuminated the party scene with a generous number of large, rattan lanterns coordinating with the strung

DÉCOR

multi-colored lights not just in the trees, but arching between them. Tiki torches encircled the party zone and hundreds of

To capture true Hawaiian-island style, “We brought in surfboard

glowing luminarias lined the path to the party.

tables, beach blankets and oversized pillows, hanging rattan lanterns and a tiki bar,” says Weiss. FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

dearly BELOVED

THE MENU

ENTERTAINMENT

The food was, unsurprisingly, a top priority for this foodie couple.

“We brought in a [Hawaiian] luau band for guests to enjoy and

“We felt a roast suckling pig might be aggressive for the actual

dance the night away,” says Weiss of the couple’s devotion

wedding,” says Alli and Michael. “Actually, we do [roast pig] at our

to island-style. She also gave the party added flair with Marty

New York City restaurant, The Hurricane Club, and it’s become

Dread, the local “reggae all-star.” The beauty and energy of this

a family tradition. We wanted to do one properly in Hawaii,

party attracted “a few errant beachcombers who joined in the

with our own style. Mindy had the perfect eye to execute

fracas,” say Alli and Michael, who exemplified true island relaxed

the plan.” The couple brought in two of their best chefs from

style in welcoming them. Alli, after all, lived in Hawaii for a year.

their restaurants in New York and “[the chefs] reimagined all

“[Alli worked] for the local judge who married us,” says Michael.

the classics of a traditional Hawaiian luau, made with fun and

“It seemed the perfect spot and to have someone personally

sophistication for our crowd.”

connected to us do the ceremony made it that much more profound. Plus, did we mention the suckling pig?”

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Enjoy a free wedding at IBEROSTAR Grand Hotels.

IBEROSTAR GRAND HOTELS

FREE WEDDING

PACKAGE*: Flowers for bride and groom Wedding cake with fresh flowers Champagne toast Wedding dinner in a specialty restaurant Sweets and bottle of sparkling wine on your wedding night FREE room upgrade for the wedding couple Bridal SPA package Late check-out for the wedding couple

IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Paraíso

Begin your life together in total harmony at IBEROSTAR Grand Hotels. These opulent, adults-only destinations combine breathtaking settings and endless pampering to create a wedding made in paradise. Here, personal wedding coordinators take care of every detail. And with no more than two weddings per day you’re ensured your moment in the spotlight is truly your own. You’ll also enjoy privileges at Iberostar’s nearby sister properties — ideal for family and friends traveling with children.

IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Paraíso

IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Bávaro

IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Rose Hall

MEXICO · DOMINICAN REPUBLIC · JAMAICA To find your local romance travel specialist, visit allabouthoneymoons.com *To qualify for a free wedding package you must book 5 rooms or more for 3+ nights or a Grand Oceanfront Room for 7+ nights at IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Paraíso, IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Bávaro or IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Rose Hall. Complimentary rooms and room upgrades are subject to availability. Complimentary wedding cake and champagne toast are for 10 persons, additional food and beverage will incur an extra charge. Subject to availability. Based on double occupancy. Blackout dates and restrictions may apply. Subject to change without notice. IBEROSTAR does not assume responsibility for errors or omissions within the context of this advertisement.

FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

Grand Paraís o

ALLdepartment ABOUT honeymoons HEADING

HONEYMOON REGISTRIES

An Alternative to the Traditional Your wedding registry is meant to be a fun experience in which you and your beloved, literally, begin to plan your new life together. However, what if you already live together and don’t need the ever-asked-for china set and crystal vase? Enter the honeymoon registry – a way for your loved ones to pitch in on the post-nuptial trip of a lifetime. All About Honeymoons owner, Greg Strobach, explains the process and tells you why it’s time to pack your bags for the custom created honeymoon of your dreams.

Q: I’m thinking of doing

a honeymoon registry, how do I know

it's right for me?

A: About 90% of couples have some kind of registry and a

honeymoon registry is growing in popularity. In today’s world, wedding couples tend to be different than they were in the past. They are slightly older and more established. Many brides and grooms either live together before getting married or live on their own (i.e., away from home) before marrying, which has changed the wedding gift dynamic drastically. Nowadays, couples don’t need steak knives, a dinnerware set or towels – they already have them. A honeymoon registry provides funds the couple can use on their honeymoon for things which they could not have afforded and thus make the trip even more memorable. Guests will feel they have helped provide a life-long memory, which is more appealing than just another household gift.

Q: Overall, how does your registry work? A: Our registry offers a simplified process for wedding gifts. The couple creates a “Couples Wedding Page” and a “Honeymoon Registry” on our website – it only takes 15 minutes or so. They pick a destination and suggested pertinent activities appear (with over 400 photos to choose from) which the couple simply sends to guests. Guests go to the site and purchase activities, either website and is searchable for as long as the couple wants.

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Photo courtesy of: iStock, Image #000005565147, © Christian Wheatley

on the site or over the phone. Also, the information stays on the

department ALL ABOUT honeymoons HEADING

Q: Are any fees involved? A: Credit card companies will charge a fee when a guest’s card

Q: When will I receive my gifts from my honeymoon registry? A: The bride and groom can request money at any time. Most

admin fee goes toward processing gifts to the applicable vendor,

after the wedding for last minute gifts. Unless you specify

keeping a complete accounting for the couple, hosting their

otherwise, you will receive a check a few days prior to the

wedding website and most importantly, keeping it free for the

wedding, another about a week after the wedding and then

couple – after all, it is their day!

whenever there is a contribution after that.

is used as payment and there is a small administrative fee. The

Q: Do I create my custom itinerary and then guests make

a dollar donation or can they purchase actual experiences like sunset dinners or other excursions?

A: Guests don’t actually purchase a specific activity. The total

couples request a check before the wedding and then again

Q: When will my honeymoon registry be active?

When will

my honeymoon registry close?

A: The registry can be activated at any time.

We recommend

you open it when the wedding date has been determined. The

amount goes to the couple to be used at their discretion. Of

registry is not closed until you decide to close it.

course, any “extra” activities they choose can be arranged by

Q: What is a good way to thank my guests for these

their All About Honeymoons romance travel specialist.

intangible gifts?

Q: What if some of the more traditional guests are offended by

A: Our registry makes it easy for the couple to send “thank you”

or houseware? How do I set their minds at ease?

a traditional note. Many couples take photos of themselves on

us not registering for tangible products such as china

A: There is nothing which says you can’t have more than one

messages electronically. However, you may also want to send the honeymoon enjoying the “gift” and either attach it to the

registry. In addition to a honeymoon registry, the couple may

electronic message or enclose it with the note. You will receive a

want to set up more traditional registries (china, linen etc.). That

notification each time a contribution is made on your site so you

way, a more “traditionally minded” wedding guest can then

know when and from whom you receive gifts.

contribute to those. More and more though, people understand the value of experience. Creating a memory for a couple will last

For more information on honeymoons, destination weddings or

much longer than a new toaster.

a honeymoon registry, please visit allabouthoneymoons.com and connect with your local romance travel specialist.

FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

honeymoon HIDEAWAYS

Let’s Get Lost

– AUSTRALIA’S GREAT OUTBACK Words by Carolyn Gerin

Rawnsley Bluff

Says she: Honey, let’s get away, disconnect and recharge…no cell phones, laptops, deadlines… Says he: Totally agree! Our honeymoon is around the corner. Let’s escape and go into the wild, where no one can find us…

romance and realization. If you crave a great escape beyond predictable honeymoon offerings, one which provides adventure and otherworld natural beauty, wildlife and wonderful solitude, look no further than Australia’s great Outback. You’ve seen the films, been seduced by the mythology of this gargantuan expanse of connecting deserts and ranges. But nothing prepares you for the sheer scale and riot of color which

And so it begins, the conversation which sets in motion the epic journeys which define you as a couple; realized by mutual need and desire: for peace, connection, solace and serenity – for 66

permeates Earth’s natural wonder. The Outback, to be precise, is 6.5 million square kilometers inhabited by less than 60,000 people. Where it is, is a conundrum, as it’s not a precise location, but rather a collection of idealized attributes assigned to a place which lives in our consciousness.

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

Photo courtesy of: SATC/Photographer

6 p.m. rush hour, any city, engaged couple...

honeymoon HIDEAWAYS Arkaba Station

Arkaba Station

Flinders Range

It’s rugged and romantic to be sure, but if you think you’ll be

sheepskin rugs, only five rooms and a Coachmen’s Cottage. It’s

bootstrapping it with canteens and beef jerky with only the

quietly blissful – the only music you hear is the galah birds which

company of kangaroos – think again. The Outback offers

circle the gum trees. For miles, nothing dots the landscape but

amenities which will impress the most erudite concierge.

sheep, a few kangaroo and the Range. It’s eerie and enchanting

Suspend disbelief and set foot on the road less travelled…

being so far away from it all. In the quiet, you can breathe again.

GETTING THERE

Having been to many five-stars, Arkaba offers a truly unique

Start your trip out on the right foot with Qantas and fly

experience: letting nature take the lead and building their

International Business Class. Enjoy fresh lamb, South Australian

“resort DNA” around it. As night falls, the sky turns a fuchsia-

wines and a comfy chair-bed all the way to Adelaide (a lovely city

violet. Under a canopy of stars, we enjoy a cool glass of Barossa

worth exploring).

wine and meet our dining companions at a communal table on the veranda. Chef Cesar Varricchio’s food is outstanding; lamb

Rent a SUV with four-wheel drive and travel 4.5 hours to

raviolis, zucchini flowers and fresh produce. An exhilarating

astonishing Arkaba Station, a 60,000-acre working sheep

lightening storm lights up the velvet sky while we enjoy a

station on the edge of Flinders Range National Park. This 1850s

nightcap on the porch before a deep, restful sleep.

homestead offers “wild bush luxury” with heritage touches like

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

Photos courtesy of: (top to bottom, left to right) Randy Larcombe (1st, 2nd, 3rd & 5th) and SATC (4th)

Arkaba Station

honeymoon HIDEAWAYS Arkaba Station

Take a Walk on the Wild Side: Coober Pedy Fly from Adelaide right into the Twilight Zone – if you seek a truly unusual travel adventure – this is it. Coober Pedy is the largest producer of the world’s opals, with soaring temperatures necessitating underground homes, churches, stores and an eclectic 40-nationality community. The Desert Cave Inn has comfortable, air-conditioned rooms built right into the rock face and excellent food. Mad Max and Red Planet were filmed here on the Moon Plain – a vast expanse of craters – abandoned ‘space ships’ flank our hotel and ‘lawn sculptures’ from old film sets dot the terrain. We toured underground apartments, mines and even dug for opals amidst one of the richest dinosaur fossil repositories in the world. The entire landscape resembles an alien planet. That said, even the grassless Coober Pedy Golf Course has reciprocal playing rights with Saint Andrews in Scotland. Local sites also include: the famous 5300 km Dog Fence and the Painted Desert – an ever changing range of color on the mesas. Take to the Painted Hills to see almost martian-like conical formations rising out of the Desert floor.

Coober Pedy

Photos courtesy of: (top to bottom) Randy Larcombe and Coober Pedy

Daybreak brings the Outback into sharper focus: off-roading with

and gazing at you, transfixed. Take a spin in a charter flight

Kat, our guide and the quintessential Australian super-woman,

unearthing the staggering natural amphitheatre of Wilpena

tucks us under wooly blankets in the chilly dawn to experience

Pound, regarded as the best place in Australia to view the

sunrise over the Range and every manner of wildlife: eagles,

sun rise and set. Check out the sheep shearing station: they

emu, hawks, galahs and scores of Kangaroo moms and their

are made salon-comfortable and relieved of their heavy

baby joeys.

coat in summertime.

Next is Rawnsley Park Station located below the Rawnsley

End the day with a glass of wine and watch the brick-red sunset

Pound in Flinders Range – a modern and marvelous warren

from your deck and head down to the Woolshed Restaurant

of eco-villas set cleverly into the captivating landscape. Our

for hearty, country-style fare including farm-raised Dohne lamb,

room is comfortable and modern with a sweeping view of the

or book a Starlight Banquet – dining under the stars in a bush

Rawnsley Bluff.

setting with your sweetie.

Hike up to Arkaroo Rock and get a 360-degree view of wildly

Isolated but not alone, bound together to witness life-altering

colored rock formations with only sheep, emus and kangaroos

natural wonders, your first journey into the rest of your life should

as companions. Upon hiking the Mawson Trail, prepare to

be as epic as you are are.

encounter no fewer than 50 kangaroos standing straight up Get lost together. FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

honeymoon HIDEAWAYS

After passing through the friendly town of Zihuatanejo and arriving at Capella Ixtapa, I was met with a stunning view of the Pacific, a stiff sea breeze and casual smiles. This wasn’t my first visit to a Capella property and I had high expectations to say the least. The brand was created a mere six years ago and is still a well-kept secret – great for you and me as the rates are still reasonable for what you get. With unparalleled service and properties enviously unique to their destination, I’ve become a loyal follower of the brand and so will you.

Ixtapa, Mexico

Photo courtesy of: Courtney Cox

Words by Courtney Cox

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honeymoon HIDEAWAYS Photos courtesy of: (top to bottom, left to right) Courtney Cox (1st, 2nd, 4th & 5th) and Capella Ixtapa Resort (3rd & 6th)

With no check-in and check-out times, you’ll have a hard time

restaurants, two infinity pools and a state-of-the-art spa. My

leaving. Capella Ixtapa is a perfect honeymoon hot-spot for many

favorites were Taco Night with authentic street-style Mexican

reasons, but mostly for its privacy, attention to detail and idyllic

tacos and the renowned bread at Amares Restaurant made with

setting. All employees learn the names of each and every guest

the resort’s own apple yeast.

and are educated on your comings and goings. Walking to my spa appointment I was asked by the friendly bell-hop, Cruz, “Ms.

The one drawback of the hotel’s hillside location is the lack of

Cox, how was your sunset sail?” What could be perceived as

an on-site beach, but with the breathtaking views, you won’t

over-the-top was delivered with such genuine sincerity I couldn’t

miss it. If you and your new spouse do decide to venture out, the

help but smile.

charming town of Zihuatanejo is a mere ten minutes away. This former fishing village hasn’t lost the authenticity which makes

The accommodations also aim to make the resort’s occupants

Mexico so wonderful. While parts of the nation have been rocked

feel important. Even the most “basic” suite boasts a broad patio,

by crime, this private getaway is known as a safe, family-friendly

private plunge pool and meticulously decorated living spaces.

escape. In fact, this is where Mexicans choose to vacation as it

Those in charge know what makes this location special because

has retained its cultural distinctiveness.

all 59 suites have sea views from every room. The Pacific is inescapable here, even in the shower you can enjoy the view

Back in Ixtapa, the resort’s spiraling staircases, jungle-lined

and relax to the sound of the waves crashing on the rocks below.

pathways and golden façade make you feel the true essence of escape and will put you in the mood to do exactly that – escape

The rooms are so nice in fact, nearly 90 percent of guests

the everyday worries of reality and venture into the realm of

choose to take their meals en-suite. It’s a good place to be since

authentic Mexican hospitality. Capella Ixtapa will meet your most

complimentary Mexican beer, handmade guacamole and fresh

basic desires for travel abroad: the hospitality of home mixed

pico de gallo are delivered to your room daily. Want to explore?

with the adventure and allure of destinations unknown.

No problem, Capella Ixtapa offers three different and delicious FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

honeymoon HIDEAWAYS

Savor the Sweet Aroma of Tahiti LE TAHA’A ISLAND RESORT AND SPA Words by Carolyn Steere

How lucky can one get? Having the opportunity to visit one of the most amazing honeymoon destinations in the World and enjoy the world-class service of a choice resort…pinch me!

the warm traditional lei greeting from the staff, you discover this

Considered part of Tahiti’s lesser known hidden paradise, the

into the pristine Tahitian waters for a morning swim or sunbathe

seductive island of Taha’a shares with its visitors the tranquil

to your heart’s content. Just steps away, LaVanille, the main

life of its locals. Aptly named “The Vanilla Island,” the fertile soil

restaurant, gives you the feeling of dining in a tree house

produces much of the World’s vanilla and the fragrance of the

overlooking the lagoon and lush resort property. For a very

sweet spice fills the island air with its rich aroma. The calm, pure

special evening in paradise, you will want to reserve a table

waters of the island are also ideal for cultivating Tahitian pearls…

at Ohiri, the resort’s gourmet restaurant where you can enjoy

and who can think of a better lasting remembrance from your

French-Polynesian fusion at its best.

thatched-roof bungalows provide every creature comfort including an oversized bath surrounded by tropical flowers, a comfy bed which floats in the room and windows which open up to the outside world, but are placed for total privacy. Each bungalow also has its own private deck allowing you to slip

For the ultimate honeymoon experience, Tahiti certainly delivers.

For an “over-the-top/Swiss Family Robinson-like” honeymoon,

To ensure your stay is unforgettable, Le Taha’a Island Resort and

you can do no better than the exquisite Le Taha’a Island Resort

Spa is the only place to go.

and Spa. From the moment you step onto the dock and receive

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Photo courtesy of: Le Taha'a Island Resort

romantic honeymoon?

location is the Tahiti of your dreams. The romantic overwater

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FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

THE DOLDER GRAND, ZURICH, SWITZERLAND Words by Carolyn Steere

The sun rising over the magnificent Alps provided an awe-inspiring scene on my early morning flight into the vibrant lakeside city of Zurich, Switzerland. The city has a cultural center with a wealth of museums, music venues, art galleries, seasonal festivals, ultra-trendy nightlife, gastronomy delights, unique shopping experiences and proximity to alpine adventures. There is no end to exciting ways to enjoy your first days of matrimonial bliss in Zurich. 74

Hands down, the choice place to rest your head is the newly restored Dolder Grand which was recently the setting for scenes from the U.S. version of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. Conveniently located in a lush, wooded setting overlooking the city, the resort offers magnificent views of the lake and distant Alps. Truly a city landmark dating back to 1899, the Dolder Grand is a fusion of past and present with great care taken to preserve its historic charm, but also incorporate every conceivable luxury for its guests. The facilities include delightful walking paths, tennis courts, a nine-hole golf course, swimming pool and ice-skating rink. Award-winning Swiss-inspired cuisine in the restaurants will delight your palate and magnificent pieces of inspiring art greet you at every turn throughout the resort.

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Photo courtesy of: The Dolder Grand, Peter Hebeisen

EUROPEAN escapes

Urban Escape into Luxury

EUROPEAN escapes Photos courtesy of: (top to bottom, left to right) Peter Hebeisen (1st & 2nd ), The Dolder Grand (3rd), and Stefan Schmidlin (4th).

Then there is the Amala Spa. Accolades are pouring in including

traditional Japanese influences, all delivered in a modern setting

SpaFinder’s award for “Best Spa in Switzerland” and “Hotel Spa

and with the purest of products including the 100 percent natural

of the Year in Europe” – all just in the last few months. Picture

Amala skin care line.

yourself lounging in the sun with the snow-capped Alps as the backdrop while you await your sumptuous body ritual. Or, per-

The Dolder Grand’s luxe amenities, tasty fare and European chic

haps you might like to slip into one of the unique sunaburos, a

design are all reasons to visit, but it’s the spa which takes this

tub filled with fine pebbles which have been warmed to enhance

hot-spot over the top. Newlyweds wanting an adventurous Euro

the experience of deep relaxation. This truly unique snow para-

destination, without sacrificing world-class relaxation, will find the

dise is perfect for a bit of cooling off after the sauna or, to quiet

best of both worlds on the outskirts of Zurich.

your soul, enjoy the serenity of the exquisite mirror mosaic meditation room. “Classic traditions with a techno beat” is reflected in the spa menu with European and Swiss therapies combined with

FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

EUROPEAN escapes

IRELAND

– A Home Away From Home Words by Courtney Cox

When the opportunity to travel to Ireland arose, I jumped – no leaped – at the chance. Gallivanting through the Irish countryside was my ultimate cup of tea. I boarded a flight out of New York just as the sun was setting. Fast-forward six hours and I was watching the sun rise over the coast of Shannon. Seeing the rosy pinks and gilded yellows of early sunlight contrasted with the infamously lush Emerald Isle is something I will never forget.

While Destination I Do has covered Ireland in the past, The

stepped into the cozy lobby complete with a roaring fire, I felt

Lodge at Doonbeg was something entirely different and oh-

like I was visiting an old friend’s home in the country rather than

so-perfect for honeymooners. What sets this Irish resort apart

a resort. Once your bags are unpacked, settle in and prepare to

from others is the fact that it has all the throwback charisma you

make friends. The staff at Doonbeg will quickly feel like family

will find in a castle, but with modern luxury which simply can’t

with their genuine sincerity, curiosity and openness.

American owners of Doonbeg took an extensive tour of Ireland

Kindness is a necessity in such a small town. The local village

studying old manor homes in order to inspire their design. It

consists of just 250 residents, one store and six pubs. The Lodge

has been said that while the resort was being built in 2006, a

at Doonbeg is the perfect escape for honeymooners wanting to

travelling Irishman asked how long the “refurbishment” had been

do just that – escape. The nearest stop light is almost 40 minutes

going on. Despite the fact the buildings are only six years old, it’s

away and yet it’s only an hour from Shannon Airport. This is not

as if it’s always been there – nestled on the southwestern coast

the destination for couples wanting the fast-paced atmosphere of

of County Clare.

a big European city. Traveling to Doonbeg is like stepping back in time to when we were entirely dependent on the land, knew our

This five-star resort doesn’t disappoint with artfully appointed

neighbors and life was simply simple. If you hire a car, don’t be

suites and cottages all filled with carefully curated antiques.

surprised if your driver stops in the middle of the road to heckle a

You’ll find the beamed ceilings, arched doorways and secret

passing first-cousin.

nooks and crannies characteristic of a grand old house paired with delightful and unpretentious luxury. From the moment I

County Clare is the perfect place since it’s largely non-commercialized, but offers some of the most popular tourist attractions

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

Photo courtesy of: Courtney Cox

be found in an establishment originally built as a fortress. The

in Ireland. The iconic Cliffs of Moher are an hour drive north of Doonbeg and you can easily pass through the Burren – a moonlike landscape of limestone which ironically boasts one of the most unique flower landscapes in the world. The Burren Perfum-

EUROPEAN escapes

ery is a family-owned business nestled among this landscape of contradictions – fractions of limestone and lush, overgrown foliage. Here they produce all organic products based on the unique herbs and flowers which grow in the region. However, the latest and greatest tourist attraction is to see the cliffs from the water via a Cliffs of Moher cruise. It’s only from below that the true majesty and sheer size of this national landmark can be properly seen. For a smaller, more pedestrian-friendly version, the cliff walk in Kilkee is just over a mile and has stunning views of the Atlantic. The surfing city of Lahench will also find itself along your driving route and is the perfect place to stop off for a little shopping. The Lodge is quickly becoming a landmark in itself with a worldrenowned links-style golf course and a bevy of accolades. The Doonbeg Golf Course is listed as one of the top 100 in the World and is majestic with a mix of grass-strewn dunes and seaside fairways. The Lodge has also become a hot-spot for Irish cuisine. Chef Wade Murphy was recently named “Best Chef” by the Irish Photos courtesy of: (top to bottom, left to right) The Lodge at Doonbeg (1st, 4th & 5th) and Courtney Cox (2nd, 3rd, 6th & 7th)

Restaurant Association and the Lodge’s Long Room was named the “Best Restaurant” in all of Ireland. The beach which gives the resort its signature views is tremendously popular with the locals

Chef Wade Murphy

and is the only beach to border a five-star resort in the country. If you and your sweetie are looking to say “I do” between the months of April and September, a destination wedding in Doonbeg would be a sure-fire success. The resort is extremely popular with Irish and U.K. residents, yet they often host only one wedding a week – ensuring you’ll get the love and attention you deserve. Your guests will stay content with golf lessons, horseback riding, fishing and a visit to the on-site genealogist to trace their Irish heritage, all topped off with a pint of Guinness in one of the local pubs. Looking to stay satisfied yourself? Then visit the White Horses Spa to enjoy their signature treatment: the Burren Wilderness Massage. Organic herbal mitts placed on your hands and feet will warm you to your core and help with circulation. The spa only accommodates four to five people at a time, so there’s no worry of feeling rushed or crowded. After your treatment, pop over to Darby’s Pub for some brown bread – an Irish staple – and a bowl of homemade soup. There’s no question a stay at the Lodge at Doonbeg will impress you with its striking setting and supreme luxury – but there’s something more important. It’s the people you will meet and the

The Burren Perfumery

old Irish charm which will really have you coming back for more. I know I’ll be back – and with friends in tow. More than returning to a resort, I have a feeling it will be like coming home.

EUROPEAN escapes

-Hop the Pond

LONDON’S CALLING Words by Carolyn Gerin

Coworth Park

First stop: the stunning Coworth Park – a 70 room luxury countryhouse hotel and spa set on 240 acres of picturesque Berkshire park land 45 minutes from central London. Time stands still in what feels like a Downton Abbey moment with champion horses accompanied by well-heeled Londoners kitted out in fabulous haberdashery. If your fleet of polo ponies also need accommodations, look no further. Drop into the eco-spa for a jetlag banishing rub down and embrace the day. Wind your way through the manicured gardens amidst mid-morning fog. Wander the property and enjoy

The adventure begins with British Airways: relax in the Club

the confluence of design inspiration where British bespoke,

World Lounge with a glass of bubbly until the flight. Once

handmade and haute design meet. Ethereal, pastel-colored

airborne, enjoy traditional British fare, great wines and even high

‘great rooms,’ whimsical plaids and florals and bold art from

tea, first-run films and sleep deeply in a comfy chair-bed.

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

Photo courtesy of: Coworth Park

There are certain romance travelers who envision palm trees, mai-tais and aqua blue oceans. For those who wish to change it up a bit and enjoy urban adventures with a dash of aristo-eccentric glamour (with a nod to history), why not hop the pond to Merry Olde England?

EUROPEAN escapes Coworth Park

Coworth Park

View of 45 Park Lane & The Dorchester

Photos courtesy of: (top to bottom, left to right) Coworth Park (1st, 2nd and 3rd) and 45 Park Lane, Adam Parker

emerging British artists keep darkly traditional Victoriana at bay.

a martini at The Bar – your choice of 37 vodkas – followed by

At Coworth The Restaurant, Chef Chris Meredith spins English

dinner at The Grill under Chef Brian Hughson, serving up a

country classics with his exquisite duck and beef dishes.

classic twist on British favorites with organic ingredients from Devon and Cornwall.

Ready-Steady-Go to swinging London and stay at the divine and decadent Dorchester. A gorgeous gilded lily, it’s over-the-top in

In the mood for exotica? Head downstairs to China Tang, Sir

all the right ways with 196 rooms, 51 suites and three roof suites.

David Tang’s Cantonese haute cuisine empire, offering a dizzying

The Promenade – is a kaleidoscope of colors – a tasseled,

array of flavors and textures – all exquisite – amidst a Shanghai

tufted, paean to grandeur. Britain’s treasured tradition: high

1930s vibe. Celeb spotting is frequent in the China Tang Bar –

tea – finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, petit fours,

Instagram heaven!

champagne and tea of every variety – is served here, amidst vaulted ceilings and a parade of fabulous hats. Repair to your

All the imbibing and nibbling necessitates a stroll until the next

suite, all burnished woods and rich brocades high atop bustling

culinary adventure. Head over to St. James Street for a tour of

streets. Relax until your massage at the Spa, a restorative

the shops which have a “Royal Warrant” – a seal of approval

experience with essential oils by expert therapists. Later, enjoy

which superior vendors earn from the royal family. Floris

FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

EUROPEAN escapes The Dorchester

The Dorchester

Perfumes is a standout. Get your shop on at Liberties of London

Lunch is luscious at Cut, Chef Wolfgang Puck’s award-winning

for quirky neckties, scarves and a comprehensive display of

American-inspired steakhouse. Enjoy prime dry and wet aged

Britain’s best designers (the menswear is stellar). Serious food

beef, an outstanding wine list and prime people watching.

porn means Fortnum and Mason: enthusiastically promoting the

Case in point: our team of seasoned journalists could not have

Queen’s Jubilee year with whimsical confections and cakes like

anticipated having cocktails in the clubby upstairs Bar 45 with

national monuments.

Bill Wyman of the Rolling Stones and Sir Peter Blake, renowned British pop artist and designer of the Beatles' Sgt. Pepper

Ready to switch out the age of elegance for cool Britannia?

album cover!

Head across the street to 45 Park Lane to experience what new London looks like. Located in the heart of Mayfair, central London

Brunch offers yummy trad fry-ups worth waking up for, but the

(and across the street from the Dorchester) it’s an entirely avant-

highlight is the stupendous Bloody Mary bar, a confluence of

garde point of view. 45 Park Lane has 45 guest bedrooms and

garden-fresh ingredients, spices and handmade mixers.

suites, plus the Penthouse Suite with a sweeping view of Hyde Park and downtown London. Deeply rich colorations of purple,

London’s calling – its got its game on: the upcoming Olympics,

dark wood, light and reflective areas, keep the feeling intimate

the Jubilee, new hip venues and restaurants (the Berkshire’s a

and rich, yet expansive. There is a 1970s Art Deco feel to it, a

stone's throw away), great shopping and art, yet it still retains

dark sparkle: luxurious and sexy – you might just decide to stay

its charming sense of history. For romance travel with texture,

in. The design was created as a backdrop for Britain’s current

tradition and topspin, hop the pond and make your own

crop of artists including Sir Peter Blake, Damien Hirst, Bruce

honeymoon history.

McLean, Joe Tilson and Brendan Neiland.

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

Photos courtesy of: (top to bottom, left to right) 45 Park Lane, Adam Parker (1st ) and The Dorchester (2nd, 3rd & 4th).

The Dorchester

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the top ten Etiquette Questions for your destination wedding Words by Elaine Hilbelink

We know you don’t get married every day, much less have a destination wedding – therefore, etiquette can be a confusing subject. Here are some of our most asked questions and advice on how to handle them.

MONEY MATTERS 1. I am having concerns about the extra travel expenses for my

include gratuities in your calculations. It is also prudent to check

attendants. What exactly should I pay for and what should the

with your wedding coordinator for the proper gratuity for your

wedding party be responsible for?

location as this can vary from one country to another. Here are

Participating in any wedding is an expensive endeavor these

other guidelines to adhere to:

days! Etiquette generally requires attendants to pay for their own

• Check your contracts and final bills ahead of time to see if a

clothing, accessories, hair and makeup, travel, lodging, wedding

gratuity was included. You don’t need to double tip – unless of

and shower gifts. It is also customary for the maid of honor or

course, you want to.

• The host should carry an envelope with cash on the wedding

bridesmaids to host a shower or bachelorette party. Since typically destination weddings are on a much smaller scale, you may choose to subsidize (budget permitting), but it is not

• In general, the owners of businesses do not receive tips. • Guests should not be expected to pay parking lot attendants,

required. What you do for one person, you should do for all. A

coatroom attendants etc. This should be arranged in advance so

few ideas for assisting your bridal party by making your wedding

you can inform your guests with discreetly placed signage.

more affordable might be:

• Negotiating group discounts on airfare and lodging. • Pay for the accommodations if it is in your budget (renting a

If you use a wedding planner, they may be the person

large beach home for you and all your guests and having the

sure to designate someone to handle this detail for you.

responsible for dispersing tips on the wedding day. If not, be

wedding there, might be a good way to tie-in the entire event).

• Make affordable choices on dresses and accessories, or give them to your attendants as a gift.

• Ask that they not give you a gift for the wedding and let them know that their presence is their present to you.

THE INVITATIONS 3. When inviting a single friend to our destination wedding, do we need to include a guest on the invitation?

2. What is the protocol when tipping vendors at a wedding? A: Tipping is a method for expressing your appreciation for a job

A: It is not necessary to include guests for singles unless they are engaged. But, make every effort to group them with others they know at the reception to ensure they enjoy the event.

well done. When planning your budget, it will be important to

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

day for unexpected tips.

you might have a friend or family member close to that person explain the situation or do a little detective work. If you come up

A: If you wish to host your own wedding, you may issue the

with no answer, call them and ask them. People understand how

invitation yourselves. An example of the appropriate wording

mix-ups with gifts and gift cards can happen and would likely be

might be:

happy to clarify which gift they sent. The honor of your presence

8. How long do I have to write a thank you note if someone has

Is requested at the marriage of

given us a gift?

Miss Lee Cooper

blush & BASHFUL

4. My fiancé and I are paying for our destination wedding. How do we word the invitation?

Wedding gifts are wonderful, but the task of responding in a

And Mister Todd Hill

timely manner looms heavily on most brides and grooms. Ideally

Saturday, the tenth of January

you should write them as soon as a gift arrives, but within a

Two Thousand Thirteen

month of returning from your honeymoon is certainly acceptable.

At 5 o’clock in the afternoon Beautiful Tropical Resort

It is a misconception that you have a year to acknowledge

San Juan, Puerto Rico

gifts. Guests have up to a year to send their gifts, but your acknowledgement should be made as soon as possible. One

5. How do I tactfully avoid inviting children to my

thing which might make it easier is to print off two sets of labels

destination wedding?

have that portion finished, making the process less of a burden.

when you are addressing your invitations. This way, you’ll already

A: Depending on where your wedding will take place, you may consider an appropriate age cut-off based on the location and style of wedding you are having. Make sure to communicate well in advance if you’ll be including children (or not) so guests can plan ahead. While you may want to pick and choose, if you include some children on the invitations, all children of your guests should be included. The exception to this would be children participating in the wedding.

PARTY PROTOCOL 9. Since we’re doing a destination wedding, is it acceptable to also have other pre-wedding celebrations such as an engagement party, bridal shower and/or bachelorette party? You really should limit pre-wedding events to only one. The expense of a destination wedding can be a bear on some

GIVE THANKS 6. Is it appropriate to send emailed thank you notes if the

people’s wallets and if you have several parties on top of that, they may start to really feel the pinch. You know your guests and their life circumstances better than anyone, so consider that when deciding which event to have. If friends or family insist on

invitation to the corresponding party (shower, engagement party,

throwing you a shower, don’t fight them over it, but make sure

etc.) was an e-vite?

you recognize the overall financial outlay before adding more

A: We live in a time-crunched society, and when you are

events to the roster.

planning a wedding you are under even more time constraints. Even so, your thank you notes should always be handwritten. People have put forth money and time to shop for you and

10. I’m not inviting some people to the destination wedding

attend your event; it would be gracious for you to acknowledge

because we want it to be small and intimate. Should I still invite

the gift with a personal note in your own hand.

them to my bridal shower? I must be frank here. No, you should not invite them to the

7. What do I do if a card has been separated from a gift and

shower or any other celebration if they are not invited to the

I don’t know the giver?

are only after gifts. If you decide to have a hometown reception

A: Keeping an accurate list of attendees and gifts is crucial in

and plan to invite them to that, then by all means, include them in

acknowledging your gifts in an orderly fashion. By process of

your shower plans.

wedding. You would not want your friends or family thinking you

elimination you might be able to figure out who the giver may be, or at least narrow the field. If you have it down to a few people,

FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

The Ultimate in Gifts for the Guys Words by Audi Taraldsen

PUTTING THE TECHIE IN CHARGE

bachelor PAD

For the technology-loving guy, World domination through the accumulation of powerful gadgets is the ultimate objective. But, the techie is nothing without power. That is why the Soladec Hybrid All-in-One Portable Solar Power Charger and External Battery Pack with Integrated Ultra High-Flux LED Light is the ultimate gift. The Soladec charger allows you to charge most USB powered portable electronic devices from smartphones and MP3 players, to tablets, e-readers and more. It has built-in LED lamps and can function as a flashlight and SOS lamp blinker (so you can let other techies know your quest for World domination has failed). TRACKING THE OUTDOORSMAN

misemet.com/

When you take the bachelor party off-the-grid and into places

Price: $100

where cell phones die and wild things live, give everybody peace of mind with the SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger. By enabling an online map in real time, so friends and family can track your progress. To let everyone know you are doing well, press the “OK” button and a custom message will be sent via email or SMS to up to 10 pre-determined contacts. In case of an emergency, press the SOS button and emergency responders (police, highway patrol, search and rescue teams etc.) are notified and Heaven and Earth is set in motion to find you.

PROTECTING THE TRAVELER

Some say the Amazon Kindle is the best gadget of the decade. Not only has it made something as simple as reading easier, but it keeps the nightstand tidy and you save a lot of gas money not going to the library. The best thing about a Kindle is the number of books you can store on it so you can bring hundreds of books with you when you travel. However, to get the most of your Kindle on

findmespot.com Price: $120 + optional online map subscription and rescue insurance

the road, protect it with an OtterBox Commuter Series case. It can take a serious beating and will prolong the life of your book collection. otterbox.com/

Laziness is probably the main driving force behind the World’s

Price: $50

greatest inventions and the Garmin Rino 650 rugged GPS + radio must have been conceived by a bunch of lazy ingenious engineers thinking, “I would like to carry one less thing while hiking.” So, they combined a high-sensitivity GPS with a powerful FRS/GMRS radio. This is one of the best GPS devices available and with a headset you can assign awesome call-signs to your friends and play special ops missions while hiking. It is a must for advanced paintball battles or hunting trips. One of the coolest features is the “view multiple contacts” screen where you can see where your friends are in relation to you. sites.garmin.com/rino/ Price: $500

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

Photos courtesy of: (top to bottom, left to right) Gerd Corrigan (1st & 4th), Soladec (2nd) and Otterbox (3rd)

the tracking feature, your location is uploaded via satellite to

CONNECTING THE BUSINESSMAN

The Forerunner® 910XT is the ultimate training tool for the fitness

If you are a businessman and you

enthusiast. If you are a swimmer, biker or runner and you obsess

need to be connected at all times,

over heart-rate data and map details, this is the perfect training

at any cost, the CradlePoint

partner for you. The auto multisport feature lets you switch

COR IBR600 4G wireless

sport modes with the press of one button, so you don’t lose any

broadband router is your

time transitioning from one sport

life-line. Where a puny cellphone

to another. The 910XT also offers

antenna cannot pick up a signal, the IBR600 does it.

extensive swim metrics, including

The External 3G/4G and WiFi antennas will get you a signal

swim distance, stroke identification,

almost anywhere.

stroke count and pool lengths. And

cradlepoint.com

once you are done, you can upload

Price: $500

bachelor PAD

IMPROVING THE SPORTSMAN

the data to your favorite social media site. To inspire others, of course! Never to boast… sites.garmin.com/forerunner910xt/ Price: $450

Photos courtesy of: (top to bottom, left to right) Garmin, Cradlepoint, GoPro, Gerd Corrgian and Golfshot

There is only one way to truly capture a bachelor party: Strap a HD HERO2 1080p video camera to your head and capture the action from your point-of-view. Or get one camera for each person in the bachelor party to create the best video ever. It is waterproof and can take a beating, so whether you are partying, biking, skiing, skating or kayaking, your moment will be captured in brilliant HD quality. Check out the videos at the gopro.com website. They are ridiculous!

Sometimes presentation makes all the difference and if you are

gopro.com/cameras/hd-hero2-outdoor-edition/

into Tequila shots at the bachelor party to reclaim past glory, the

Price: $300

Tequila Buffet will be a huge success. It is basically a tray with room for everything you need to make the perfect Tequila shot. The tray, which is made from beautiful reclaimed chestnut, is

With several million “likes” on Facebook, Golfshot is a popular Golf GPS app for iPhone & iPad and a must-have for the devoted golfer. The app has outstanding stats and graphics capability and includes more than 15,000 international courses.

made to hold a 375 ml Patron bottle (not included) and comes with a cutting board, knife and spoon. Put in your favorite shotglasses and you are ready to go. How you mix it up is entirely up to you. We recommend taking the Tequila shot and throwing the salt into your best friend’s left eye and squeezing the lime in the other. It is called teamwork. etsy.com/listing/92880182/tequila-buffet-tm Price: $90

golfshot.com/ Price: $30

FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

Awards RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE IN THE DESTINATION WEDDING INDUSTRY The DESTI

DestinationWeddings.com, the top destination wedding and romance travel company in the world, is now the first organization to recognize resorts for their destination wedding capabilities and accomplishments within the romance, destination wedding and honeymoon market. The “DESTI” awards are handed out to resorts in various regions each year at the DestinationWeddings.com Symposium honoring them for their achievements. The award recipients were exclusively chosen based on feedback from DestinationWedding.com clients during the course of 2011. Couples who select the award-winning hotels will be able to trust that the

properties offer impeccable service and fabulous amenities DestinationWeddings.com clients recommend. This was the inaugural year of the DESTI Awards and moving forward they plan for these customer-driven

Award

THIS YEAR'S DESTI WINNERS WERE:

awards to be annual and limited to rewarding the absolute best of the resort and destination wedding performers. The first awards ceremony was held in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico in March 2012. They included a special recognition award dedicated to the group or person who had greatly contributed to the destination wedding and romance travel market.

Riviera Maya:

Puerto Vallarta:

Jamaica:

Cancun:

El Dorado Casitas Royale

Grand Velas (Riviera Nayarit)

Sandals Royal Plantation

Excellence Playa Mujeres

Hard Rock Hotel

Caribbean:

Cabo San Lucas:

Special Recognition Award

& Casino Punta Cana

Beaches Turks & Caicos

Pueblo Bonito Sunset

Love Mexico Weddings

Dominican Republic:

D ES T IN AT ION WE DD IN G S. COM

DestinationWeddings.com recognized Love Mexico Weddings with the Special Recognition Award for their incredible contributions to the destination wedding and romance travel industry. DestinationWeddings. com has consistently participated in their educational forums and events. Love Mexico Weddings’ efforts in educating travel agents, wedding coordinators and resort staff elevate the destination of Mexico and the industry as a whole to another level. When brides and grooms are deciding where to get married, it is important they take note of these prestigious recognitions because they are endorsements from other couples who have experienced their very own destination weddings at these resorts. The DESTI Awards are a great way to know what properties stand out among the rest. DestinationWeddings.com is dedicated to bringing quality, reliability and excellence to couples everywhere and the DESTI Awards are just one more way they are making it happen. S P E C I A L P ROM OT I ON A L F E ATURE

DestinationWeddings.com is proud to award

EL DORADO CASITAS ROYALE with the DESTI Award for RIVIERA MAYA in recognition of their high level of client satisfaction and impeccable service.

1-888-536-1923

DestinationWeddings.com is proud to award

gRAnD vELAS RIvIERA nAYARIT with the DESTI Award for PuERTo VAllARTA in recognition of their high level of client satisfaction and impeccable service.

1-888-536-1923

BEACHES TURKS & CAICOS with the DESTI Award for the CARIBBEAN in recognition of their high level of client satisfaction and impeccable service.

department HEADING

DestinationWeddings.com is proud to award

1-888-536-1923 FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

DestinationWeddings.com is proud to award

SAnDALS ROYAL PLAnTATIOn with the DESTI Award for JAMAICA in recognition of their high level of client satisfaction and impeccable service.

1-888-536-1923

DestinationWeddings.com is proud to award

HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASInO PUnTA CAnA

with the DESTI Award for the DoMINICAN REPuBlIC in recognition of their high level of client satisfaction and impeccable service.

1-888-536-1923

{sonoma} CALIFORNIA

real-life WEDDINGS

THUY + HARVEY

Words by Kelly Ryan Images by Caroline Tran, carolinetran.net

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

real-life WEDDINGS

Las Vegas is usually a city of gambling, partying and a chance to justify carelessness, but for one couple, this city of sin is where they found love. Having met through a mutual friend, Thuy and Harvey had a natural spark which ignited after the couple left the “gambling capital of the world,” proving what happens in Vegas doesn’t have to stay in Vegas. Fast-forward seven years later to a much more serene setting of

present, the guest list topped out at 103 people and the couple

Sonoma wine country. Thuy and Harvey’s destination wedding

was able to spend quality time with everyone on the biggest day

was held at Beltane Ranch in Glen Ellen, California. The ambi-

of their lives.

ence consisted of acres upon acres of vineyards, trees and open pastures littered with cows grazing – all of which could be easily

Thuy gracefully sauntered down the aisle to Pachebel’s "Canon"

confused as a picture perfect postcard.

as her Sonoma postcard glowed behind her soon-to-be husband. “We were both right there, in the moment and feeling every

“I always knew I wanted to have our wedding in wine country,

bit of it,” she says. “When it came time to read our vows to one

but I never communicated it to Harvey,” Thuy says. “After we be-

another, we were overcome with emotions…everything about the

came engaged I asked him where he wanted to get married and

moment was so pure.”

he said the words I wanted to hear…[wine country].” The destinaThe reception followed shortly after the ceremony. With weather

tion was set.

close to perfection, dinner was held outside and come sunset, One obstacle the couple needed to work around was their family

the couple danced to Chantal Kreviazuk’s “Feels Like Home”

and friends’ busy schedules which was part of their reasoning for

and soon the chance to let loose, be merry and dance the night

a destination wedding. Being able to create a vacation-type wed-

away was on everyone’s mind. “As we dined and danced under

ding would enable all of their loved ones to congregate, relax

the stars and twinkling lights, I really knew we were all in the mo-

and spend quality time together all in one place, Thuy says. The

ment and celebrating love and togetherness. It was a moment to

guests were thrilled to be out in wine country to celebrate the

remember,” Thuy reminisces.

couple’s love and to get a reprieve from everyday stresses. When it comes to planning a destination wedding, Thuy has one The couple kept the planning process simple and stress-free by

piece of advice. “Nothing really matters but the love you have

using websites and magazines, but Thuy says the real life-

for one another and for the friends and family who are all there

saver was hiring a wedding planner who led them through the

to celebrate with you,” she advises. “Enjoy it, soak it in, be 100

wedding agenda step-by-step. With only their cherished ones

percent present and you will have the time of your lives.”

FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

“As we dined and danced under the stars and twinkling lights, I really knew we were all in the moment and celebrating love and togetherness. It was a moment to remember.” real-life WEDDINGS Photographer: Caroline Tran, carolinetran.net, Wedding Planner: 8events (Patty Lee), 8events.com, Ceremony/Reception Site: Beltane Ranch, beltaneranch.com, Gown Designer: Monique Lhuillier, moniquelhuillier.com, Florist: Flower Divas, flowerdivas.com, Groom's Attire: suit from Hugo Boss, hugoboss.com; shoes: Prada, prada.com; tie: Armani, armani.com, Bridesmaids' Attire: Priscilla of Boston, Makeup Artist: Taylor Pham of Mimi & Taylor Salon, mimi-taylor.com, Invitations: Paper Chez, paperchez.com, Cake: Fleur de Lisa Wedding Cakes, fleurdelisacakes.com, Caterer: Alex’s Catering, alexscatering.com, Rentals: Milk Glass Vintage Rentals, milkglassvintagerentals.com; Wine Country Party, winecountryparty.com

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

department HEADING

THANK YOU CHRONICLE BOOKS!

Credits: D ress design and photo courtesy of Punk R ock B ride, Punk ro ck br ide. c om .

TEN YEARS OF TYING THE KNOT OUTSIDE OF THE BOX! W W W. A N T I B R I D E . C O M ANTIBRIDE

@ANTIBRIDE

AMAZON , TARGET, BARNES & NOBLE AND OTHER SELECTED BOOKSTORES AVAILABLE AT :

FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

{beijing} CHINA

real-life WEDDINGS

ALISSA + ALAN Words by Sarah Padilla

Images by Otto Schulze Photographers, ottoschulzephotographers.com

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

real-life WEDDINGS

The Great Wall of China has stood the test of time for centuries, and the symbolism wasn’t lost on Alissa and Alan when they chose this magnificent landmark – also the site of their engagement – as the backdrop for their October 2011 wedding.

Alissa walked down the aisle to "Here Comes the Bride" played on an erhu, guzheng and pipa – traditional Chinese instruments.

The couple met and fell in love in Beijing, the city they currently

wedding colors. Alissa walked down the aisle to "Here Comes

call home, while on a business assignment. When it came time

the Bride" played on an erhu, guzheng and pipa – traditional

to plan their nuptials, Alissa and Alan wanted to share the

Chinese instruments. Earlier in the day, the couple had honored

country and culture they had grown to love with their family and

their families in a traditional Chinese tea ceremony.

friends. Despite the distance, they were thrilled 70 guests were One of the day’s most memorable events was taking photos at

able to attend.

the Great Wall. Construction and traffic issues led to the bridal Cultural differences made planning the event a challenge. “Every

party making most of the trek through the village by foot, all

time we turned around things were changing,” says the bride.

while trying to shield the bride from her groom.

"But in the end, all of our close friends and family made it and “We were quite a spectacle,” says Alissa. “The girls were wearing

that was truly the most important part.”

heels and were walking on the Great Wall, and the guys were While the planning process might have been less than perfect,

managing every roadblock so we could make it to the ceremony

the end result was exquisite. Alissa and Alan wanted to combine

on time. We had so much fun up there.”

both of their cultures in an East-meets-West style Alissa dubbed “modern-glam-Chinese-fusion.” The striking color combination

And much like the landmark which brought them together

of red and blue represented traditional Chinese and American

initially, the memories of Alissa and Alan’s wedding are sure to last for years to come.

FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every time we turned around things were changing. But in the end, all of our close friends and family made it and that was truly the most important part.â&#x20AC;? real-life WEDDINGS Photographer: Otto Schulze Photographers, ottoschulzephotographers.com, Wedding Planner: Miyoshi Nakahara, miyoshinakahara.com, Ceremony/Reception Site: The Brickyard Inn/The School House, brickyardatmutianyu.com, theschoolhouseatmutianyu.com, Gown Designer: Wedding Gown, Vera Wang, verwang.com; Tea Ceremony Gown, Sally Tailor, Florist: Flower House Enomoto, Groom's Clothing Designer: Sally Tailor, Bridesmaids/Groomsmens' Clothing Designer: Sally Tailor/Sally Tailor, Tea Ceremony Jewelry: Belita Jeweler, Makeup Artist: Meili Autumn, meiliautumn.com, Cake: CC Sweets, ccsweets.cn

destinationidomag.com | FA L L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2

{beverly hills} CALIFORNIA

real-life WEDDINGS

STEPHANIE + GERALD

They say you find love when you least expect it, and for Stephanie and Gerald, that saying rings true. The two met, of all places, in a Hong Kong club, but it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t until six months later when their meeting would lead to more than just a friendly encounter.

Words by Lauren Rubino Images by John & Joseph Photography, jkhphoto.com

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real-life WEDDINGS

“I know that I didn’t want the night to end…I could have partied all night.”

“It was a long weekend in Hong Kong and I asked if Gerald was

honestly, when you have a good planner, you don’t have to.”

going out of town, and he said no,” recalls Stephanie. “We both laughed that we were the last two losers stuck in Hong Kong for

The couple got married in the Beverly Hills Presbyterian Church

the weekend and decided to get together and hang out.”

and had their reception at The Beverly Hills Hotel.

From there, their love story began.

“The wedding ceremony was simple, but beautiful,” says Stephanie. “I had always wanted to get married in a church and

Gerald proposed to an unassuming Stephanie in a restaurant

I know that’s what my mom would have wanted also. It was a

in Hong Kong, and being deathly afraid of public attention,

bittersweet day because my mom passed away a long time

Stephanie never thought that night would be the night.

ago, but we were able to incorporate her into the ceremony by lighting a candle together along with our unity candle.”

On the restaurant’s outside terrace, two waiters emerged, one with flowers and one with a cake reading, “Will you marry me?”

The reception was the bride’s vision – dreamy and fairytale-

Of course, Stephanie said “yes!”

like. “From very early on, I knew I wanted a lot of flowers at my wedding,” says Stephanie. “I described my vision as ‘ethereal

The task of planning their Beverly Hills, California wedding from

Midsummer’s Nights Dream.’” The colors were bright pink,

their current home in Hong Kong made the planning tricky. For

raspberry tones and splashes of navy blue with lots of butterflies.

help with her 200 person wedding, Stephanie looked to Jeannie Savage and her wedding planning team at Details Details.

The reception was not only beautiful, it was a chance for the couple to finally breathe a sigh of relief and let their hair down.

“Having to plan a wedding when you are an ocean away and have a 16-hour time difference is a nightmare,” says the bride.

“It was a just a lot of fun, and we were both able to [relax] with all

“That is why you need a very competent wedding planner. They

our friends and family that were there,” says Stephanie. “I know

will be your life saver! I didn’t have the time to do research and,

that I didn’t want the night to end…I could have partied all night.”

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101

“I didn’t have the time to do research and, honestly, when you have a good planner, you don’t have to.”

“The wedding ceremony was simple, but beautiful.”

real-life WEDDINGS

Ceremony and Reception Site: Beverly Hills Presbyterian Church and Beverly Hills Hotel, bhpc2.org & beverlyhillshotel.com, Photography: John & Joseph Photography, jkhphoto.com, Wedding Planner: Jeannie Savage of Details Details, aboutdetailsdetails.com, Florist: White Lilac Inc., whitelilacinc.com, Wedding Gown: Vera Wang Luxe, verawang.com, Groom’s Attire: custom made Giorgio Armani, armani.com, Bridesmaids' Attire: Jim Hjelm, jlmcouture.com/Jim-Hjelm

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department real-life WEDDINGS HEADING

{maui} HAWAII

KELLY + MATT Words by Courtney Cox

Photography by Bound By, bound-by.com

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real-life WEDDINGS

Kelly and Matt have a long-standing love affair with Hawaii, so they knew there was nowhere else they would want to say “I do.” However, the couple knew a lot of their loved ones wouldn’t be able to make the trek to the middle of the Pacific, so Kelly and Matt did all they could to make their destination wedding an unforgettable experience for the guests who attended.

“I am so glad we spent the time we did planning the little details to make this wedding ours.” Because of their dedication to achieving their dream look and a

Details for their guests ranged from pashminas in case of a chill,

perfect guest experience, the couple wasn’t willing to budge on

custom umbrellas in case of rain drops, colored flip-flops in case

the details of their wedding. “Planning a wedding on an island,

of sore feet and a custom-made play list. “We wanted to make

with limited stores and vendors proved to be quite the chal-

sure people had an absolute blast, so the focus was on entertain-

lenge,” says Kelly. “We knew what we wanted and weren’t willing

ment,” says the bride. “We had our guests submit their favorite

to compromise. In the end, a lot of the items we were looking

songs in advance and made sure there was something for every-

for weren’t available locally and we ended up shipping tons of

one to dance to.”

[items] over.” While the planning process wasn’t as smooth at times as the couCome W-day, the couple was joined by 75 guests at the stunning

ple had hoped, it was worth it in the end and they have no regrets.

Haiku Mill on the island of Maui. The bride and groom custom-

“I am so glad we spent the time we did planning the little details to

ized as many details as possible in order to give their guests a

make this wedding ours,” says Kelly. “The small details were what

custom experience and avoid a “cookie cutter” wedding feel.

stuck with the guests, from the W embroidered on the napkins at

“For instance, we are both huge NFL fans,” recalls the couple.

the dinner table to the custom labels on their water bottles – the

“When we introduced the wedding party, we had a professional

little details didn’t go unnoticed.”

voice-over talent pre-record our introduction as if we were our very own NFL team.” FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

105

“We had our guests submit their favorite songs in advance and made sure there was something for everyone to dance to.” department real-life WEDDINGS HEADING Ceremony and Reception Site: Haiku Mill, HaikuMill.com, Photography: Bound By, Bound-By.com, Day-of Coordinator: Coordinating courtesy of venue, HaikuMill.com, Floral Design: White Orchid Wedding, WhiteOrchidWedding.com, Catering: From Soup to Nuts, CateringFromSoupToNuts.com, Wedding Gown: Jim Hjelm, JLMcouture.com/Jim-Hjelm, Groom’s Attire: Burberry, Burberry.com, Bridesmaids’ Attire: JS Boutique, JSBoutique.com

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See what happens when girls fall in love with books. In the developing world, a girl doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a lot of options. She often has to drop out of school to work or marry young due to societal pressures. But an education can change that. The longer girls stay in school, the more likely they are to earn higher wages, marry later in life, have healthier families and educate their own children. Room to Read has helped thousands of girls gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in school and beyond. Honor the power of education on your wedding day with a gift that changes lives. Celebrate generously by visiting roomtoread.org.

FAL L & W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 | destinationidomag.com

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{columbus} OHIO

real-life WEDDINGS

KANIKA + SHAHEEN Words by Sarah Padilla Images by Amanda Julca, amandajulca.com

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real-life WEDDINGS

Known as the quintessential American city, Columbus, Ohio might not come to mind as an exotic destination wedding locale. However, Kanika and Shaheen couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think of a better place to blend their Indian and American backgrounds with not only one, but two breathtaking ceremonies.

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The bride’s intricately embroidered Indian gown was replaced by a sleek ivory Cymbeline number and a pair of gold Jimmy Choos. real-life WEDDINGS While the couple lives in upstate New York, Columbus is close

Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel. Ultimately, the couple

to Kanika’s family and was a central location for their 175 guests

transformed a nondescript ballroom into a makeshift gurdwara,

who traveled from more than ten states and from as far away

or Sikh temple, complete with rich imported fabrics.

as India and Bangladesh for the July 2011 event. Within hours, though, the bridal party which had been decked The metropolitan city also offered resources to make their

in colorful Indian attire was practically unrecognizable. The

intricate vision a reality. Kanika and Shaheen, both born and

bridesmaids wore slate gray dresses; the bride’s intricately

raised in the U.S., chose to honor their Indian heritage with

embroidered Indian gown was replaced by a sleek ivory

a traditional Sikh wedding in the morning, followed by a non-

Cymbeline number and a pair of gold Jimmy Choos.

denominational ceremony in the evening. A feat, says Kanika, possible only with the help of wedding planner Kasey Conyers

And although he had already married Kanika once that day,

of Bliss Wedding & Event Design.

Shaheen admits seeing her emerge in this dress was his favorite part of the day. “She was stunning, a dream come true,”

“When we couldn’t be there, she could – working out the kinks

he recalls.

often before we were even aware there was a wrinkle,” says Following the second ceremony in a courtyard at the Center

the bride.

of Science and Industry, the couple entered their reception to The result was an unforgettable, albeit somewhat

Lady Gaga’s "Bad Romance," kicking off a dance party which

complicated, day.

flowed from Top 40 to Punjabi without missing a beat.

Because it required a large indoor space with room for guests

For Kanika and Shaheen, it was, literally, the best of both worlds.

to sit on the floor, the Indian wedding was held at the Photographer: Amanda Julca, amandajulca.com, Ceremony/Reception Site: Morning: Columbus Renaissance, marriott.com/renaissancehotels, Evening: COSI (Center of Science & Industry), cosi.org, Wedding Planner: Kasey Conyers of Bliss Wedding & Event Design, blisseventco.com, Gown: Cymbeline, Florist: Flowers on Orchard Lane, flowersonorchardlane.com, Groom’s Clothing: Mark Thomas Apparel, Bridesmaids/Groomsmens' Clothing: Jenny Yoo NYC, Mark Thomas Apparel, Invitations: Momental Designs, momentaldesigns.com, Cake/Cupcakes: Piece of Cake, shortnorthpieceofcake.com ,Ice Cream: Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, jenisicecreams.com, Paper Bouquet/Place Settings: Christina Norris Designs, christinanorrisdesigns.wordpress.com, DJ: DJ Kahn

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Photo credits: Enlace Photography enlacephoto.com

Shopping for your wedding is a picnic!

速

Your day , Your deals

WWW.WEDCOUPON . COM Engage with us!

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KAUA'I

real-life WEDDINGS

{poipu} SHANA + RYAN Words by Jennifer Stein Images by Aaron Mizushima

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Ryan and Shana have known each other since high school,

sand where the bridal party would stand and plumeria flowers

although according to Shana, “It wasn’t until a handful of

and lava rock shaped into a heart would be their altar.

department real-life WEDDINGS HEADING

As an editor of a destination wedding magazine, there are few things better in this World than when two people you cherish decide to tie the knot in a beautiful destination. I’ve known the bride and groom for more than a decadeand-a-half and was thrilled to be a part of their special day. Here’s their story:

years later, when we worked together that it really clicked.” Three children and 15 years later, they got engaged in

Their three children and niece led the bridal party. Ryan was

Barbados and decided to tie the knot on the island Shana was

handsome and kept it casual with a light blue linen button-down

born – Kaua’i, Hawaii.

shirt and Dickies. Shana couldn’t have been more breathtaking in her sweet-heart neckline, strapless gown with lace overlay and

“We’ve both shared so many precious memories on Kaua’i

haku (in lieu of a veil) as her brothers walked her down the aisle.

and Poipu is our favorite place on Earth," says Shana. "It only

There wasn’t a shoe in the sand or a dry eye in the group as they

seemed logical to get married there." Friends and family were

exchanged their own intimate and personal vows with their close

not surprised, although the couple was overwhelmed by the

friend officiating the ceremony.

number of people who attended, close to 50 people in all. “It After the “I do’s” were said, the group headed back to the

was a true blessing,” says the couple.

beach house and had a casual celebration with local Hawaiian They generously decided to rent a beach house for the bridal

musicians, pupus and a full buffet dinner topped off with an

party and their families, which ended up being “wedding

assortment of local desserts such as guava cake and banana

headquarters” for the week. A gorgeous view of the ocean

crème pie.

and surrounding mountains from the wrap-around lanai became the meeting point for early morning coffee and late

Shana’s fondest memory of the day was during the ceremony,

night fun.

“Looking out and seeing how many people were crying…that meant these are the people who genuinely love us.”

Several days of playing at the beach with kids and family, golf outings for the guys and an “island style” theme of casual

As far as advice for other brides planning their own wedding,

events put everyone in the vacation spirit immediately.

“It was said best by my friend, that the vibe of the bride/groom translates to everyone else. So relax, enjoy and take unforeseen

When it came time for the big day, Shana’s brother and his

problems in stride. The more we enjoyed ourselves, I think, the

girlfriend headed down to a quiet part of Shipwreck’s Beach

more our guests did too.”

in Poipu and claimed the area as best they could to ensure a private ceremony. They set up an incredibly beautiful aisle

Enjoy it, we did. The only sad thing is the wedding is over

using lava rock and tropical foliage. Palm fronds carpeted the

– but we have so many priceless memories to take with us as a memento.

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Shana relied on the help of Pinterest in her planning. Collaborating with friends to create a board with ideas and as a way to communicate about things they liked (such as selecting the bridesmaids' dresses and voting on the gown she would wear) was not only fun, but helpful. department real-life WEDDINGS HEADING Photographer: Aaron Mizushima, Ceremony: Shipwreckâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Beach, Reception Site: Hale Hapuna, Gown Designer: inweddingdress.com style# BC683, Florist: Blue Orchid (Koloa, HI), Bridesmaids' Clothing Designer: inweddingdress.com style # BR234 in various shades, Barefoot Sandals by Stella's Design, stellasdesign.com. Some photos taken at Plantation Gardens and Kiahuna Plantation Resort.

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YOU’RE INVITED! a destination wedding getaway and romantic honeymoon - Destination I Do Magazine's BLOG & H ON E Y MOONS TOO!

LOG ON TO DESTINATIONIDOMAGBLOG.COM FOR: • Hundreds of luxurious locations to tie the knot • Dream honeymoon hideaways • Décor ideas • Fabulous gowns • Picture perfect photographers • Hair and make-up looks • Budgets • Easy planning tools • Etiquette advice …and the overall “how-to’s” when it comes to planning your destination wedding, honeymoon or romantic getaway.

D E S T I N AT I O N I D O M AG B LO G . C O M You can also follow us on Twitter (@DestinationIDo)

or on Facebook (search Destination I Do Magazine).

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real-life WEDDINGS

NEVADA

las vegas CHRISTINA + RABBIT

Words by Kelly Ryan Images by Sonya Yruel, sonyayruelfoto.com

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real-life WEDDINGS

“I’ll never forget being on the outside of the chapel: the doors of the chapel were shut, my dad and I were in the back seat of the Cadillac and Elvis was driving.”

Christina and Rabbit are a rambunctious couple who met eight years ago while working at a bar. Once engaged, the couple was the perfect image of two rebels ready to face the World together and who were going to start it the way they wanted, regardless of family opinion. Given the couple’s lively attitude and taste for things flashy and fun, it made sense they tied the knot in the flashiest place on Earth, Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Given the couple’s lively attitude and taste for things flashy and fun, it made sense they tied the knot in the flashiest place on Earth, Las Vegas, Nevada. real-life WEDDINGS Having a destination wedding in Las Vegas gave the couple

moment was Rabbit and his mother’s dance together,” Christina

the chance to narrow down the guest count. Christina booked

reminisces. “She had just finished radiation and chemo because

the Viva Las Vegas wedding chapel because it was big enough

she had been battling breast cancer. Vegas was her first trip to

for all of her guests and she was able to hire her own wedding

the mainland in about five years.” (Rabbit’s mother calls Hawaii

photographer for an extra fee. Being a wedding photographer

home.) Christina grabbed Rabbit’s little brother and joined her

herself, Christina stressed the little details and made sure the

husband and her new mother-in-law on the dance floor, bringing

ceremony and reception portrayed the exact image in her head,

tears to everyone’s eyes.

all while being fun and tasteful. After the first Elvis-style reception, the wedding party made their “I’ll never forget being on the outside of the chapel: the doors

way to the Palms for a second reception which was better suited

of the chapel were shut, my dad and I were in the back seat

with a balcony, separate rooms and even a chance to gamble

of the Cadillac and Elvis was driving,” Christina recalls. “I was

downstairs. “The Palms was great because it’s a young and cool

so nervous, shaking, holding my dad’s hand, when the door

hotel,” Christina says. “They also had really awesome condos

opened and I could see all my family and friends. Everyone

which most of our guests rented.”

was cheering!” When the wedding ceremony was over and the reception had Flashing lights and fog greeted Christina as she was escorted

finally died down, Christina looked back on her wedding and

into the chapel in a bright pink convertible Cadillac driven by

says it was the epitome of everything she envisioned. A funky

none other than Elvis himself – making the ceremony quite

Vegas theme mixed with tasteful elements made Christina’s

theatrical and fun for everyone. It made sense for the couple

wedding ceremony and reception a theatrical memory every

to indulge in some of the typical aspects of Sin City because

guest will remember for a lifetime.

it wouldn’t be a Vegas wedding if Elvis wasn’t present. A neon Vegas-styled sign read “Mr. + Mrs. Rabbit” (made by Christina’s

“Be you!” Christina exclaims. “Trust your gut and hire people

father) greeted the couple and the guests into the pre-reception.

you trust. Also, details and favors should be meaningful, useful and not useless. Do things which mean something to you.

The couple's loved ones were greeted with handwritten letters

Weddings are about celebrating your love for one another, don’t

scribbled with love and gratefulness. Soon the time for traditional

forget that.”

dances with family members came. “I think the most tear jerking Photographer: Sonya Yruel, sonyayruelfoto.com, Wedding Planner: Staci Bajuniemi with Vivacious Design and Event Planning, vivaciousdesign-eventplanning.blogspot.com, Ceremony/Reception Site: Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel, vivalasvegasweddings.com + Garduños at The Palms, palms.com, Gown Designer: Amy Fink, amyfink.net, Florist: Lori McNeill, Grooms Clothing Designer: Volcom, Ties.com, Vans, hatguys.com, Bridesmaids: Amy Fink, amyfink.net, Groomsmen Clothing Designer: Volcom, Vans + Ties.com, Couple’s custom sign: John McNeill General Contracting: johnmcneill.tumblr.com, Stationary: Yelley, yelley.net, Custom Map: Kacey Schwartz, kaceyschwartz.blogspot.com, Hair and Makeup: Le Burge’t Salon, leburgetsalon.com

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Beauty Products to get you Glam for W-day Words by Jennifer Stein

to have & TO HOLD Clearogen

This line of acne-busting products will help your skin go from

remark that the glowing system makes you look a little different

scary to stunning in a matter of weeks. The three-part system

while you’re using it, but for a gorgeous smile, who cares?

consisting of foaming cleanser, clarifying toner and acne lotion

Pricing starts at $275 for the kit. gloscience.com

costs $78 for a two-month supply. I tried it for a full eight weeks and saw a major difference in breakouts and overall clarity. clearogen.com

Revision Skincare’s Revox II

Expression lines are nature’s way of giving us more character, right? Wrong. Any woman is going to do her best to avoid fine GLO Brilliant Personal Teeth Whitening Device

lines and wrinkles. Expression lines are the hardest to combat

Thinking of going to the dentist for a brilliant, white smile? Think

(unless you’re a regular Botox lover). I used the product for about

again. I’ve done both the professional whitening and now Glo

two months and noticed a decrease

Brilliant. The results are basically the same, but GLO Brilliant

in the lines around my eyes and

costs a lot less and you can whiten on your own schedule. I will

forehead. This peptide-based serum also softened my skin and made it seem more vibrant. Pricing online ranged from $65-$80. revisionskincare.com

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Photos courtesy of: (left to right) GLO, Clearogen and Revision Skincare

At Destination I Do, we never write about products, destinations or services we haven’t tried ourselves – so here’s a list of tried-and-true beauty products to get you gorgeous. From your peepers to your lovely locks and even your kisser, you’ll look smashing. All of these items were sent as samples for us to try, and after our investigations, we’re giving you the skinny on each one.

BITE Lip Care

and Nighttime Conditioning Serum

The High Pigment

I’ve always been skeptical of eyelash

Pencil was a great

growth serums. It seems impossible

addition to my

that the girls seen in commercials are

lip color line-up. The liner is almost like a creamy sharpened

not wearing false eyelashes. After using

lipstick vs. a liner. Applying it is a snap and the color stays for

EnvyDerm religiously for 16 weeks, I did

hours. The best part: no sharpener needed. The crayon twists

see a difference. My lashes were longer,

up, making it even more convenient. Price per pencil is $24 and

stronger and fuller. They claim it takes six

is available at sephora.com.

to have & TO HOLD

EnvyDerm Eyelash Enhancement

weeks to see a difference, but obviously my results took longer. If you purchase this product, make sure you give yourself ample time to see the effects of the serum by

Travalo

your wedding date. Pricing for the serum is $99.95.

An aircraft approved travel system, the Travalo

envyderm.com

allows you to take your favorite scent with you to your destination. I rarely travel with my perfumes

Photos courtesy of: (top to bottom, left to right) EnvyDerm, BITE Lip Care, Travalo, Eylure, Cailyn, Red Carpet Manicure and Effortless Extensions

because the bottles are large and cumbersome. Eylure

After finding the re-fillable travel tube, I can now

Speaking of false eyelashes, Eylure

smell sweet and travel light. Prices range from

is one of the best. I tried them out on

$9.99-$21.99. travalo.com

myself and a bachelorette during her big night out and they stayed put, were easy to apply and looked glamorous

CAILYN Gel Eyeliner

and natural at the same time. Pricing

Another one of my favorites, the Cailyn gel

starts at $5.99/pair. eylure.com

eyeliner is now my go-to when it comes to applying professional looking make-up. I’ve never been able to master the “cat-eye” until

Red Carpet Manicure

now. A brush allows you to gently glide the

This is one of the best products we have ever received. The

gel liner onto your lids with precision and

Red Carpet Manicure is a gel polish system in the comfort of

ease. They also have an amazing line of other

your own home. No need to go out and get a manicure every

products like mineral foundation and shadows.

two weeks when you can apply it yourself. Make sure you’re

Available for $21. cailyncosmetics.com

comfortable doing your own nails, and if you’re not, maybe incorporate it into your weekly girl’s night. After your first two manicures, the system will have already paid for itself. Choose

Effortless Extensions

from the portable system at $59.99 or professional at $79.99.

An indulgence, yes, but extensions can really enhance a bride’s

redcarpetmanicure.com

look. These extensions can be applied in a matter of moments – one large hairpiece is connected by a transparent thin headband and anchored to your scalp. I was able to place it on my head without much effort and style it right away. Plus, it’s much more versatile and affordable than permanent extensions. Prices range from $69.99-$379.99. effortlessextensions.com

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last THOUGHTS

" A thing of beauty is a joy for ever: Its loveliness increases; it will never Pass into nothingness..."

â&#x20AC;&#x201C; John Keats, Endymion Image courtesy of Caroline Tran, carolinetran.net

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