Summer 2021 by Destination I Do

SUMMER 2021

calm marry

KEEP AND

5 WAYS TO TRIM YOUR GUEST LIST

WORLDWIDE DESTINATIONS

DISPLAY UNTIL AUGUST 10, 2021

TO SAY “I DO”

REAL WEDDINGS

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The most magical moments, designed just for you.

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Our experts have arranged wedding bundles with exclusive benefits, including the necessary details for a day to remember. Whether you are planning a big gala or an intimate event, Banyan Tree Mayakoba will meet every detail with careful attention and ease.

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From barefoot beachfront ceremonies to formal black-tie affairs to everything in-between, Key Largo is an extraordinary place to begin your lives together. And no matter which venue you choose – from beach to ballroom – you’ll fi nd professional wedding coordinators here to tie up all the loose ends. fla-keys.com/keylargo 1.800.822.1088 For the latest on health & safety protocols in The Florida Keys, please visit our website.

CONTENTS SUMMER/FALL 2021 EDITION

features

Gathering Guide

Expert event planner, wedding designer and thought leader, Annie Lee from Daughter of Design and Ask Plannie, guides us through the best ways to handle your event changes and safeguard your guests.

Destination Weddings World Tour

FOUR CORNERS OF THE U.S. — Hop aboard the “tour bus” to these domestic stunners including Seattle, Washington (pg. 25), Healdsburg, California (pg. 26), Palm Beach, Florida (pg. 32) and Newport, Rhode Island (pg. 34).

36 CARIBBEAN — A classic destination wedding region, we’re highlighting some of the Caribbean’s best including Anguilla (pg. 36) and Jamaica (pg. 38).

46 EUROPE — Travel across the pond for these two

European destination wedding stunners: Portugal (pg. 46) and Italy (pg. 48).

Home to Hawaii’s state capital, world-class North Shore surfing and famed Waikiki Beach, Oahu will put even the most discerning destination wedding guest at ease.

Honeymoon Hideaways

40 MEXICO — Another popular choice for tropical destination weddings, discover stops in Mexico’s Riviera Maya (pg. 40), Cancún (pg. 42) and Mayakoba (pg. 44).

Spotlight Destination – Oahu

74 78

THAILAND — This luxury, postcard-worthy resort in Phuket has all the honeymoon essentials…plus a Michelin-rated restaurant. ANTARCTICA — A luxury yacht cruise could only be outdone by a destination as stunning as Antarctica. Think submarine excursions with a healthy side of penguin cuteness. PARIS — Discover four hip, boutique hotels currently making headlines in this most iconic of European cities.

10 Ways to Keep Calm and Marry On

COVID-19 may have thrown your plans into a tailspin as it has for many, but these ten tips will help you get down the destination wedding planning aisle with ease. DESTINATIONIDO.COM

Photography by Valorie Darling

T h e b i g d ay i s c o m i n g

An elegant chapel, a terrace by the sea, lush green gardens. Wherever your journey takes you, Palladium Hotel Group has the destination you’ve always dreamed of. Happily ever afters begin here. For more information, please contact your travel professional, visit

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CONTENTS SUMMER/FALL 2021 EDITION

departments 12 14

Editor’s Letter

80 ROMANCING THE VINE IN NAPA VALLEY – Sunlit

vineyards provide the backdrop for this California wine country photoshoot. Rose gold details, natural wood tables and creamy hues unite for a glorious reception set-up.

Wedded Wisdom

Wedding experts share their advice on the best and safest ways to plan your destination wedding right now.

Fashion Forward

Guest Book – Meet Me at the Altar

Ask the Expert – Tips for Sourcing Your Hair and Makeup Team from Afar

CHÂTEAU COUTURE IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE Nothing inspires romance quite like a chic, French château. Gardens and gilded interiors combine in this photoshoot to create a fete fit for royalty.

How do you frame one of the most important moments of your life? With a stunning ceremony altar, of course! We’re sharing inspirational set-ups to up your aisle-style.

Building your dream day-of glam squad from afar can be tricky, so Katelyn McCullough, co-founder of Elwynn + Cass, is sharing her expert advice.

Nothing inspires us quite like other couples’ success stories! We are highlighting eight stunning real-life weddings including trendsetters in Thailand (pg. 90), colorful fun in Rhode Island (pg. 94), a combining of cultures in Maui (pg. 98), earthly masterpieces in Turkey (pg. 102), oceanfront opulence in Pacific Palisades (pg. 106), fall-friendly colors in Maui (pg. 110), classical romance in San Juan Capistrano (pg. 114) and a reimagined soiree in Palm Springs (pg. 118).

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Photography by Ken Tan Photo

90 Real-Life Weddings

Wedding Bliss

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Adventure Awaits T

he past year and a half has given us quite a run for the money. We’ve battled many things, overcome obstacles we never thought we’d see in our lifetimes and weathered some serious ups and downs. Trying to plan a wedding through it all is quite the feat. Some of you are even on your third rendition of your wedding plans! Reducing your guest list, revisiting where, when and how you’ll get married all while keeping love alive, hasn’t been easy, but here we are. And to those lucky ones who are just getting started on your wedding plans – congratulations! Things should be easier for you. And, I promise you this – love is never cancelled. I hear that phrase and as cheesy as it may seem to some, it’s true.

Talking to several couples about how they were able to reimagine their weddings and the goodness that came out of it had little to do with the meal that was served or the floral arrangement that was created – it had everything to do with the people who made it come together. Follow us on social: @destinationido

The wedding planner who rearranged the same wedding multiple times without getting paid any more for their services or the caterer who honored a contract even though the guest list was reduced by 75 percent or even the venue who returned a deposit while they had to furlough valued staff, those are the unsung heroes. The people who make up the wedding industry should be applauded in how they’ve fought for their couples and continued to show up through arguably one of the hardest years we’ve seen in decades. And they are usually the ones using the mantra and believing it in whole heartedly – love is never cancelled. As you plan your destination wedding, you may see things open up and restrict again and that is to be expected. But we’re seeing a major positive shift in travel, and that’s good news for you and your destination wedding. Regardless if it’s here in the United States or across the globe, you’ve got a great lineup of talented vendors who can help you pull off the wedding of your dreams – many of them have helpful tips for you (pg. 14). We know not everyone may be ready for a far flung honeymoon or wedding right this moment, but eventually you will be. That’s why we’re featuring locations like Antarctica (pg. 72), Thailand (pg. 70) and even Anguilla (pg. 36) – because we are encouraging you to dream. To think of the possibilities, and when you’re ready – they will be there!

And, once you’re done flipping through this magazine, check out our podcast. Season 2 is hitting the airwaves and we’ve got several great episodes that piggyback on what you’ll find here. Just search for “Destination I Do Podcast” wherever you listen (Spotify, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, etc.). We’re here for you – and we’d love to hear from you if you have burning questions you’d like answered. Our inbox is always open – info(at)destinationido.com or DM us on social anytime. Yours truly, Jennifer Stein

EDITOR’S LETTER

DESTINATIONIDO.COM

Photo courtesy of: Dennis Kwan Headshots

This issue is jam-packed with helpful information and advice so that navigating the planning process can go back to being fun and exciting – as it should be.

ON THE COVER SUMMER 2021

marrycalm

KEEP AND

5 WAYS TO TRIM YOUR GUEST LIST

WORLDWIDE DESTINATIONS

DISPLAY UNTIL AUGUST 10, 2021

TO SAY “I DO”

REAL WEDDINGS

IN THAILAND, TURKEY, MAUI AND MORE

EDITOR IN CHIEF / PUBLISHER / OWNER Jennifer Stein

SENIOR EDITOR Courtney Kellar

OWNER / CEO Carolyn Steere

WEB CONTENT & SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Lauren Ertl

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erin Suwwan

DESIGNER Jaclyn Threadgill

NATIONAL ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Mike Walker

SOUTHEAST ADVERTISING MANAGERS Scott Rickles Dan Tomkiewicz

DESTINATIONIDO.COM

Summer 2021: Real-life bride, Kayla is gorgeous in her “Showstopper” robe from BHLDN as she gets ready for her Palm Springs wedding showcased on page 118. After having to completely switch gears from her original wedding plans due to Covid-19, Kayla ended up getting even more of a destination wedding celebration in the end. The bride and her husband, Ifeanyi, celebrated both her Mexican culture and his Nigerian heritage through their cuisine and kept their guest list intimate ensuring everyone’s safety. The amazing Valorie Darling photographed this milestone event, Pure Lavish Events handled all the planning and event design (two times over), hair was by Bethany Gonzales of Babe Hair by B and makeup was done by the bride herself. Flawless is an understatement.

NORTHEAST & CARIBBEAN ADVERTISING MANAGER Diane Homer CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Victoria Abbott Riccardi Kate Darnell Elaine Hilbelink Holly V. Kapherr Shana Kinnerup Melissa Klurman Judy Koutsky

Stacey Marcus Susan Moynihan John Roark Samantha Ross Anthony Stein Kathy Till Harmony Walton

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Kristi Blane

EDITORIAL INTERNS Hope O’Brien Nicole Soto

COPY EDITOR Dr. Kathy O’Fallon

SUBSCRIPTIONS

FALL 2021

honeymoon THE ULTIMATE

Please visit us online at destinationido.com/ subscription or call our toll-free number to order a one-year subscription – 866-359-9855. Domestic and Canadian rates are $19.98 USD per year and foreign $39.98 USD. Additional shipping rates may apply.

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AND

Fall 2021: Real-life bride and actress, Taya, stands on the beaches of Hua Hin, Thailand holding a magnificent tropical bouquet designed by IAMFLOWER. Her destination wedding happened at Baba Beach Club and was a feast for the senses. The wedding took place in November 2019 with 84 guests in attendance, surrounded by a perfect garden on the beach. Photographed by the one and only Ken Tan Photo and planned by The Wedding Bliss Thailand, this wedding can be seen in full starting on page 90. Taya’s gown was designed by Amore Thailand. SUMMER & FALL 2021

If you would like us to feature your location or wedding, please submit your request via email to info@destinationido.com or visit destinationido.com/ submission-guidelines.

All rights reserved. Any reproduction of this periodical, in whole or in part, must be approved and awarded written consent from Destination I Do magazine. Please note that Destination I Do magazine provides this information only as a general 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 change. If you have purchased the same issue twice, please contact our customer service department at 480-759-9855 and we will either issue you a full refund or send you the next scheduled issue.

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WEDDED WISDOM

TIPS FROM THE PROS

ON GUEST LISTS AND PLANNING PROTOCOLS Under normal circumstances, planning can be tricky and planning a destination wedding during a global pandemic can be downright anxiety inducing. So, we pulled together sage advice from some of the wedding industry’s finest to help you navigate yourself down the aisle with ease.

START WITH THE COST. “Write out all of the guests you are thinking of inviting and divide them into two lists. The first list should include those you must invite: immediate family, best friends and your wedding party. The second list should include those you feel you really should invite, but do not have to: people who invited you to their wedding, extended family (cousins, aunts and uncles you are not necessarily close with) work friends, and friends who you knew before you were a couple. Work with your planner to get a good idea of what your wedding might cost per person. Then if that amount is, for example, $1,000, ask yourselves would you ever spend that amount of money on such and such guest - hosting them for dinner, a weekend get away, etc.? If your answer is no, then that is a person to cross off your list!” — Aimee Monihan, Tropical Occasions and Mountain Occasions ASK QUESTIONS. “Start with your friends. Ask yourselves, have you talked to them in the last three years? Do you stay in touch? Move on to other fringe areas such as kids and co-workers. Having an adults-only wedding and leaving co-workers off the list right now is okay. They will understand. And when in doubt? Elope!” — Ali Phillips, Engaging Events by Ali

WEDDED WISDOM

DESTINATIONIDO.COM

Photos in this spread courtesy of Gertrude & Mabel and designed by Amy Nichols

HOW TO TRIM DOWN YOUR GUEST LIST:

WHO DO YOU WANT TO HUG FIRST? “Instead of thinking of the people that they feel obliged to have, I will ask them to close their eyes, imagine their wedding day and who they want to immediately hug after they have said their vows. So, if they have to limit their guest list to 10 people, the first 10 people that they imagine, they are the people to invite. The reason being is the people they have conjured up in their daydream are the people they want to share their happiness with the most!” — Tara Fay, Tara Fay Events CREATE A “VALUE SYSTEM.” “The two and three tier system is a great way to make sure you include who you want. Based on who declines, move down the list. Just make sure your guests don’t know they’re tier three (because you’ll end up with a toaster). Outside of family and close friends, ask yourself, ‘has this person been a part of you and your partner’s life/relationship?’ It is a celebration of your partnership after all!” — Jason Rhee, Rheefined Company and Rheegrp LOOK AT THE UPSIDES. “I always like to look at things through the lens of positivity. Having to narrow down your guest list can actually have its upside and give you the opportunity to have two weddings. We recommend doing an intimate ceremony in 2021 and a large reception in 2022, this is what I did for my own wedding even before Covid.” — Monica Gomez, MG Events SUMMER & FALL 2021

WEDDED WISDOM

HELPFUL PLANNING PROTOCOLS: DOUBLE-CHECK YOUR CONTRACTS. When it comes to downsizing your guest list, make sure you know how it affects your budget. “With a smaller guest list, you should have many expenses that are lower, due to a smaller guest count. Certain costs (flowers, food & beverage) will be substantially lower if your guest count has shrunk. Other costs though (your planner, venue, photographer) may stay the same regardless of your wedding size. Take a look at your contracts and talk to your creative team to learn how their fees might adjust based on a more intimate celebration.” — Amy Nichols, Amy Nichols Special Events and Intimate I Dos ENGAGE WITH YOUR WEDDING VENDORS. “A lot more people will be looking closely at their wedding contracts and deposits they have paid. I do think it’s a time for couples to engage with all their wedding vendors, no matter what stage in the planning process they are at.” — Tara Fay, Tara Fay Events THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX WITH INVITATIONS. In addition to your printed invites, safeguard yourself by creating a digital version that can change in case of emergency. “Have your stationer also prepare a digital graphic that you can share with guests via email, text or social. As for a PNG or JPEG file, they are easy to send and show quickly in any mobile or web browser.” — Kaleigh Wiese, MELDEEN

CREATE A “COVID COMFORT STATION.” “Having a ‘COVID Comfort Station’ has been a huge hit. As guests arrive we have a station with masks for all, hand sanitizer and a collection of bracelets that are different colors. Each bracelet color indicates the guest’s comfort level. One bracelet color might indicate they are okay with hugs and sharing space, where another shows they are keeping their distance.” — Aimee Monihan, Tropical Occasions and Mountain Occasions WANT A BIG WEDDING? PUSH YOUR DATE AS FAR AS POSSIBLE. If you have your heart set on a large event, that’s okay. Just make sure you set your dates for as far out as possible to ensure you won’t have to postpone anything. You’re probably safe to go for late 2021 or early 2022.” — Jennifer Stein, Destination I Do Magazine

WEDDED WISDOM

DESTINATIONIDO.COM

Photo courtesy of Gertrude & Mabel and designed by Amy Nichols

BOOK YOUR VENDORS ASAP. “Regardless if you’re planning now or if you had to postpone your wedding, book your vendors right now or at least six months out. If you wait too long to reserve your hair and make up artists, florists, photographers, planners etc., you risk not having many qualified artists left.” — Katelyn McCullough, Elwynn + Cass

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GATHERING GUIDE

DESTINATIONIDO.COM

Photo courtesy of Belathee Photography

Q&A WITH

THE CREATOR OF THE GATHERING GUIDE Arguably the biggest obstacle facing wedding plans and events at this moment is how to gather in a safe and responsible manner. Without direction or understanding of restrictions set in place, couples and groups can be left scrambling to figure out how to move forward. Restrictions are changing country-to-country, state-to-state and even county-to-county.

hought leader, educator, author, principal planner of Daughter of Design and founder of Plannie.com, Annie Lee, has trail blazed a solution and created a helpful global directory of event guidelines. This “Gathering Guide” includes essential information such as travel restrictions, mask mandates, guest maximums and more. It’s a free resource to help educate the public and the event industry as a whole. She has crowdsourced over 150 event professionals to curate this list and is doing it to help communities, couples and event professionals “respond, recuperate and reopen during the COVID-19 pandemic.” Not only has Annie created this timely and profoundly relevant guide for the world, but she was also willing to answer some burning questions on the ins and outs of planning right now. Read on for some helpful advice from the problem-solver herself.

What is the biggest mistake couples are making right now with regard to their wedding plans?

The biggest mistake some couples are making is hesitating to start planning. Many 2020 clients have pushed their events to 2021. If you mix in newly engaged couples we end up with a scarcity of dates on our hands. There are obvious reasons why couples are feeling uncertain about securing their venues right now, but with the right contract wording and insurance, couples should feel protected to proceed. I’m already finding spring and summer of 2022 booking up! SUMMER & FALL 2021

What is the most valuable resource available to couples right now?

I swear I’m not saying this just because I’m a planner, but a planner. Beyond the normal duties of finding vendors, designing and organizing logistics in today’s pandemic era, planners are your guide to navigating COVID-19 since we have all lived through several worst-case scenarios in 2020. Planners have valuable relationships with vendors that can benefit client’s events creating better outcomes than if they did it alone. For those who don’t need a full-service planner but still would like some guidance, try Plannie, where you can work with an event planner by the hour on an as-needed basis.

How are you handling your own events?

With patience and grace. For the majority of our rescheduled events, we are currently in a holding pattern. The planning on these events was largely complete, so all we can do is wait, see what happens, and enact plan A, B or C depending on health advisories and government regulations as we get closer. I remind all my event colleagues that our actions and policies now will be on our permanent record after we move on from this time, so as best as we can, we need to conduct ourselves with grace in what can feel like a desperate situation. GATHERING GUIDE

How has this pandemic shifted your business and the way you will approach events in the future?

Can you tell us a little bit about the Gathering Guide and what inspired you to create it?

Post-pandemic we’ll definitely be focusing more on having planners paid for their time.

The Gathering Guide is a resource created by Plannie that lists current COVID-19 gathering rules by each area.

Event planners differ from a lot of the other vendors in that we actively provide our services during the lead up to the date of the event. If an event doesn’t happen, we still invested significant amounts of time, so I think it’s important to make sure that is understood and to differentiate planners especially when it comes to a force majeure and refunds. It’s like if your attorney worked on your case but then you didn’t go to court, you still owe her for her billable time. As you know I created Plannie, which is great for both clients who want to pay a planner only for the time they use, and for planners who want to be paid for their time spent. I see shifts like this where both sides are looking for more cautious compensation models that are more incremental.

Do you think destination weddings are safer or riskier for the couple and guests?

I think what determines how safe or risky any location, whether their own backyard or a destination, is completely reliant on the couples attitude toward safety and precautions. Through Plannie we have also been offering certified COVID-19 Compliance Officers at events and can see a huge difference when you know the hosts are taking health measures seriously versus those who are very lax. It sets the tone for how the vendors and guests conduct themselves. I try to remind couples that your guests are going to be a mixed bag when it comes to their level of health concern but you must always make sure those who are very conservative or are highrisk feel safe.

If someone is going to plan a destination wedding right now, what would be your number one piece of advice?

It’s actually the same advice I normally give: Make sure your nearest and dearest are onboard with the idea of a destination wedding. Even before COVID-19, I had clients whose grandmothers wanted to be by an American hospital, or whose best friend could not take the days off work to go to Bali and back. Whatever the reason, before you select a destination make sure your core people are as excited about the idea as you are.

GATHERING GUIDE

As we started to inch our way out of the March 2020 lockdowns, it was clear that event regulations across the country and world were hard to decipher. On top of that I could start to see the misinformation spreading with some people believing masks are optional when they weren’t in some states and so on. So I thought, there should be a resource with all the different gathering rules in one spot so people can reference it.

How do you curate your information that is included in the guide?

Plannie has a global network of event planners so we started by reaching out to local professionals to report on their current gathering laws. As laws change so frequently we’re always sure to add a link to the government site so anyone can double-check for more recent updates. I have to give a very special thanks to my hospitality school volunteers who have been the small army helping to gather and fact-check the incoming information. Special shout out to the UCF, Rosen College of Hospitality Management that has sent me so many great superstars.

What is your goal with the Gathering Guide?

I want everyone to know what is legally required in their area. There is what can be done to best support actual safety and then there is what is legally required. Though the public seems to have so many differing opinions on safety protocol, we should all be obeying the local laws, particularly venues and planners as they have more liability. The key to less safety friction is communication. We need to make sure clients know what is permitted and expected and then in turn, make sure vendors and guests know in advance what the terms of their participation is at the event.

Is it a work in progress and something that’s always changing/evolving or is it a fully finished project at this point?

Until all pandemic related gathering laws are lifted, Gathering Guide will be updated with the latest regulations.

DESTINATIONIDO.COM

PLANNIE.COM/GATHERING-GUIDE

CURRENT GLOBAL COVID-RELATED

CURRENT GLOBAL COVID-RELATED EVENT RULES AND REGULATIONS EVENT RULES AND REGULATIONS

Gathering Guide is an expert crowdsourced directory of current Covid-19 rules and regulations for events in cities around world. Our mission is to provide andCovid-19 current information about hosting Gathering Guide is an the expert crowdsourced directory ofclear current rules and regulations for events to promote safety by event professionals and clients alike. events in cities around the world. Our mission is to provide clear and current information about hosting

events to promote safety by event professionals and clients alike.

mexico

DESTINATION WEDDINGS

r u o T d l r o W When choosing to host a destination wedding, the world is your oyster! Take a moment to appreciate your adventurous spirit and road warrior tendencies for opting to get married away from home. Even though we’re still currently seeing travel and gathering restrictions here in the U.S. and abroad, it doesn’t mean a destination wedding is off the table. Keep your options open, research your destination early and often to safeguard your plans and you can have the destination wedding of your dreams! We’re spotlighting four popular destination wedding regions across the globe. Discover Anguilla and Jamaica in the Caribbean; Four Corners of the U.S. with Rhode Island, Florida, California and Washington; Cancún, Riviera Maya and Mayakoba in Mexico; and Italy and Portugal in Europe. No matter the distance you’re willing to travel for your destination wedding, hop aboard the bandwagon of this Destination Weddings World Tour!

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Photos courtesy of (top to bottom, left to right): Haven Hotels & Spas (1st), Azenhas Da Seda Turismo Alentejo (2nd), Shawn Walters (3rd), Jordan Vineyard and Winery (4th)

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u.s.a. WORDS BY JOHN ROARK

or foodies, urban explorers and, of course, coffee-loving couples, Seattle is the ticket. This seaport is undergoing a renaissance, thanks to a new generation of entrepreneurs, musicians, artists, chefs, students and educators. “With a booming job market and a reputation as one of the most desirable areas of the country, Seattle boasts a diverse community of residents all dedicated to a thriving future for our city, while preserving its natural beauty and history,” says Amanda Parsons, general manager of Thompson Seattle, a city boutique hotel and favored hot-spot. Against the backdrop of Puget Sound and the mighty Mount Rainier, you’ll find a wealth of dining, nightlife and entertainment options. Summer marks the city’s high season, but we love SeptemberOctober when the crowds are leaving and temperatures are still perfect for exploring.

Uncover Nuptial Success in

Seattle

Photography courtesy of Thompson Seattle

STAY Thompson Seattle is a boutique hotel with an urban-chic vibe beating with the pulse of the city. This contemporary getaway boasts floor-to-ceiling waterfront views and is within walking distance of restaurants, galleries, shopping and nightlife. The hotel’s rooftop terrace bar, The Nest, is a perfect perch for parties and receptions, while Conversation serves up farm-to-table fare presented without pretense. Its private dining space, The Cabin, can host up to 20 guests for an intimate and unforgettable rehearsal dinner. EXPLORE Built for the 1962 World’s Fair to symbolize America’s space-age aspirations, Seattle’s most iconic landmark, the Space Needle, has recently undergone a multiyear renovation, which includes open-air observation decks with glass benches and a rotating glass floor, new dining experiences and access to areas never before seen by the public. Soaring 605 feet in the air with 360-degree views of downtown Seattle, Mount Rainier, Puget Sound and more, the Space Needle is a must-see on your visit. PLAY Enter the seductive world of the Can Can Culinary Cabaret and experience a fusion of dance, theater, comedy, food and drink. While weekend matinees guarantee family-friendly fun, irreverent after-dark shows are for adults only. This is a great find for bachelor and bachelorette party outings. SUMMER & FALL 2021

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A Wine Lover’s Hideaway in

California Honor Mansion

WORDS BY VICTORIA ABBOTT RICCARDI hether you’re planning a honeymoon or destination wedding, California wine country checks all the boxes. It has sweeping vineyard views, plenty of outdoor activities, scrumptious, farm-fresh food and, of course, superb wines. One of the area’s best kept secrets is Healdsburg, nestled in Sonoma County on the lush banks of the Russian River. Only 90 minutes by car from San Francisco, the city centers around a 19th century plaza lined with galleries, eclectic boutiques, seasonal restaurants, like Charlie Palmer’s Dry Creek Kitchen, and over 30 tasting rooms. Healdsburg also has several luxurious inns and hotels, including SingleThread Farms, a small Japanese-style inn with a 3-star Michelin restaurant, the design-centric Harmon Guest House and romantic Honor Mansion.

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Photos courtesy of Honor Mansion (top), Getaway Adventures (bottom)

Photos courtesy of Jordan Vineyard & Winery (top), Nick Ulivieri (middle), Harmon Guest House (bottom)

Harmon Guest House, with its funky, slatted wood exterior, speaks to couples looking for luxury with an artsy edge. The light-filled, balconied rooms have French oak floors, custom-built furniture and homespun furnishings. In-room spirits, mixers, snacks and bathroom products hail from local producers and, although the property has no restaurant, over 20 eateries lie within walking distance. Harmon Guest House’s rooftop space can welcome up to 100 wedding guests and the ground level Green Room with a creek-side lawn can accommodate 50 guests. Harmon Guest House

More traditional couples will love Honor Mansion, an AAA Four Diamond property set on four acres of beautifully landscaped lawn, which makes an intimate setting for an outside ceremony. The property has 13 uniquely designed rooms and vineyard suites with private patios and hot tubs for two. All rooms come with a full gourmet breakfast, afternoon refreshments and evening wine and cheese. The property also has a 40-foot lap pool. Healdsburg abounds with wineries to visit, including the beautiful, ivy-clad Jordan Vineyard & Winery known for its SUMMER & FALL 2021

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award-winning sparkling wine, chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon, which you can enjoy during a seated wine tasting and food pairing featuring fruits and herbs from the winery’s garden. J Vineyards & Winery has gained fame for its sparklers and offers a five-course luncheon paired with wine in the property’s Bubble Room. At the family-owned Passalacqua Winery, don’t miss the “Taste, Pick and Picnic” experience that begins with a private reserve tasting on a deck overlooking the vineyards, followed by a basket of nibbles, more wine and treats from a local purveyor. To savor Healdsburg’s natural beauty, take a hike in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, a hushed network of woodland trails winding through the shady canopy of the stately Sequoias. Additionally, Getaway Adventures offers a Sip ‘N Cycle guided bike tour to small family wineries with a hearty picnic included. For honeymooners or wedding couples eager for a charming, less-discovered West Coast destination, Healdsburg has it all – picturesque views, magnificent accommodations and wedding venues, California fresh cuisine and superb wines to toast your new life together.

Photos courtesy of Matt Armendariz (top) and Jordan Winery & Vineyard (bottom)

Jordan Winery & Vineyard

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FALL FOR THE CHARMS OF THE SOUTH

MEMORIES FOR A LIFETIME AT BEACHVIEW CLUB HOTEL

Caitlin Lee Photographers

Get swept away by the romance of the Jekyll Island Club Resort’s sprawling live oaks and gorgeous beaches and let us be the destination elopement or wedding for you on the enchanting Jekyll Island.

JEKYLL ISLAND CLUB RESORT jekyllclub.com/georgia-weddings 912-635-5170

The Beachview Club Hotel on Jekyll Island offers a unique setting for wedding ceremonies and receptions under a canopy of live oaks with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Choose one of our all-inclusive packages or work with our Specialist to customize something all your own!

BEACHVIEW CLUB HOTEL beachviewclubjekyll.com 912-319-0032

(800) 933-2627 | Goldenisles.com

Love HARD Play

HARD

From arrival to first look and every golden hour in between, allow us the honor of placing your love center stage. Our industry-leading Safe + Sound program means the only thing you need to worry about is which appetizers to choose. Add a little edge, unrivaled hospitality and a whole lot of music to your celebration of forever.

1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, FL 33314 I 800.937.0156 HardRockHolly.com I #DiscoverYourRhythm

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High-End History in

Palm Beach, Florida

WORDS BY JENNIFER STEIN onestly, I’ve never met a 125-year-old who looked so good. The Breakers Palm Beach has the sophistication and class befitting its age, but with the outward, sparkling youth of something much newer. The substantial entrance, decadent details, intricately painted ceilings and thoughtfully laid out property paired with the exclusive Flagler Club (their hotel-within-a-hotel) and spa, leave visitors extending their stays and delaying their flights home. Special occasions here are only limited by the imagination. The team at The Breakers don’t know the word “no,” and it shows. This property and its staff

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Photography courtesy of The Breakers Palm Beach

are not just out of the ordinary, they are extraordinary. Catering to every whim and request, the service here is unparalleled. It’s no surprise that celebrities, politicians and the world’s most discerning travelers choose The Breakers not only for their family vacations, but to host their events. Any wedding here will be accompanied with outstanding food, breathtaking backdrops and envelope-pushing décor. With a majority of the hotel’s couples being from out of town, destination weddings are their specialty. The Breaker’s staff works seamlessly with outside vendors to create flawless events every time. They are also ensuring safety at every turn. So you and your guests can travel confidently while enjoying this sophisticated resort. Daily items such as select breakfast, fitness center, tennis and meals for kids under 12 are included in your stay. Resort fee? Not here. All these amenities are included with the price of your room. Make sure to check out the Flagler Club for the ultimate in pampering. Imagine a devoted, personal staff attending to your every need and private club lounge access with daily cocktails, full breakfast and refreshments throughout the day. The luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites and the indulgent bath and body products by Jo Malone, will help you start your wedding off right. Celebrating your wedding, special occasion or honeymoon at The Breakers Palm Beach will be as timeless and heartfelt as the very love you’re celebrating. SUMMER & FALL 2021

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Gilded Seaside Romance in

Rhode Island

WORDS BY VICTORIA ABBOTT RICCARDI

ant to get hitched or honeymoon in a ritzy East Coast destination, but with a beachy, carefree feel? Check out Newport, Rhode Island. Perched on Aquidneck Island, this “City By The Sea” is famous for its America’s Cup schooner races, International Tennis Hall of Fame, and gorgeous, Gilded Age mansions built for some of America’s wealthiest families. The city has superb restaurants, high-end shopping, and glamorous places to stay and marry, along with miles of rugged rocky coast, crescent beaches and a very walkable downtown.

Castle Hill Inn

One of the most posh places to say, “I do” or honeymoon is Castle Hill Inn, a Relais & Châteaux property on a 40-acre peninsula surrounded by Narragansett Bay. “We do only one wedding per day and the season is May through October,” says Sales Manager, Emily DiBello, noting that actress Grace Kelly filmed “High Society” on the property in the 1950s. Whether couples buy out the entire 33-room property or simply enjoy it for the ceremony and reception, they can wed and savor cocktails on the lower lawn overlooking the water, followed by dinner and dancing under the property’s white, sail cloth tent. Honeymooners can stay in the 1875 mansion’s romantic bi-level Turret Suite with its beautiful wood paneling, gas fireplace and white marble bath chamber reached by a spiral staircase. Or, they can book a secluded Beach House Room steps away from a private

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Photos courtesy of Castle Hill Inn (top), The Chanler at Cliff Walk (bottom)

“A lot of couples choose Newport because it’s in-between Boston and New York,” says Rhode Island event planner Stephanie Frazier Grimm, owner of Couture Parties. “What’s so nice about Newport is that we have a laid-back island feel, yet we can also be overthe-top with that Great Gatsby opulence, combined with old New England charm.”

Castle Hill Inn

beachfront. Castle Hill Inn has a luxurious spa, bicycles to ride, a Hinckley sailboat to charter, and can arrange tours of the Gilded Age mansions along Bellevue Avenue, also lined with upscale boutiques. For dining, the inn’s Forbes, 4-star, waterfront restaurant serves elegant, locally-inspired cuisine.

Photos courtesy of (top to bottom, left to right): Castle Hill Inn (1st), The Chanler at Cliff Walk (2nd and 3rd), Castle Hill Inn (4th)

Another enchanting spot to marry or honeymoon in Newport is The Chanler at Cliff Walk, a privately-owned, 1873 mansion overlooking Easton’s Beach. It has 20 uniquely-decorated period rooms, including the Renaissance Room – often requested by honeymooners and couples due to its richly-designed French blue décor, ornate furniture and lavish soaking tub.

The Chanler at Cliff Walk

“For weddings, we can privatize the entire property and do a buyout,” says Keith Chouinard, Director of Sales and Marketing, noting the property also books only one wedding at a time. Outdoor weddings run from April through October and couples can wed on an upper lawn, then descend to the waterfront lawn for cocktails with dinner on the terrace and dancing in the dining room. For honeymooners, The Chanler at Cliff Walk’s chauffer service can take you to several mansions or local vineyards. The Chanler can also arrange for a private boat charter, a session with a professional photographer, in-room massages, as well as an aromatherapy bath service with champagne. Be sure to stroll the Cliff Walk, a gorgeous paved path that begins at The Chanler at Cliff Walk and winds its way along the coast past many of the area’s Gilded Age mansions. For dining, the “Ultimate Romance” package is a must – an intimate dinner in a private, candle-lit dining room with a dozen roses of your color choice and bespoke menu. Additionally, the fine dining venue Cara serves sumptuous New England fare.

Castle Hill Inn

Blending opulence with a flip-flop casualness, Newport offers a chic New England destination in which to honeymoon or wed. And for couples who want help planning the details of their big day, Stephanie Frazier Grimm with Couture Parties can do it all – from a welcome sunset sail and next day’s golf outing to the wedding ceremony and farewell brunch. SUMMER & FALL 2021

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caribbean

Anguilla’s Romantic Hideaway

WORDS BY SAMANTHA ROSS nguilla is the ‘destination of destinations’ when it comes to couples searching for the classic, picturesque Caribbean beach wedding, because of the island’s serene romance. For 30 years, Malliouhana, Auberge Resorts Collection has been a destination for those looking to disappear to a place that is known by few, but kept idyllic by those who do. With one-and-a-half miles of sand the color and texture of powdered sugar, NASA reports that the bluest water in the world can be found around the islands of the British West Indies. Everywhere you turn, perfectly landscaped lush flora and fauna abound, tropical birds sing, fruit trees bloom…all to say, there is littleto-no decoration required to create an absolutely breathtaking event. Décor isn’t the only to-do item Malliouhana can take off your list. Beyond setting the scene for every important moment of your celebration (atop a cliff where Caribbean waters crest below, in a private cove, or an

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Photos courtesy of Malliouhana c/o PITER (top), Shawn Walters (bottom)

open-air deck with panoramic views of the ocean at sunset), Malliouhana’s wedding specialists take extreme pride in their ability to make every detail impeccable. Whether your destination wedding is an elopement or a full-fledged affair, Anguilla has everything to offer in island entertainment, along with a noteworthy culinary scene. (Fun Fact: Malliouhana is home to the island’s first fine dining venue, Celeste.) Wade into the pristine waters of Meads Bay Beach, make lifelong island friends at Elvis’ Beach Bar, or just float in Malliouhana’s two-level infinity pool sipping a cocktail via poolside Bar Soleil.

Photos courtesy of Malliouhana c/o PITER (entire page)

Anguilla is an island that truly offers the best of both worlds, boasting the same amount of fun and adventure as it does relaxation and serenity. When you’re looking for the latter, Malliouhana’s new spa can offer you peace-of-mind in spades. Where better to settle in to new married life than with a post-couples massage, hand-in-hand, gazing out into the Caribbean? One of the best things about Anguilla, and the Malliouhana resort, are the people who come together to create an experience far beyond the typical. Guests return year after year to relish in the island’s welcoming embrace, incredible beauty and local smiles that are so genuine they’re contagious. When you take your wedding to Anguilla, you are guaranteed a celebration unlike any other and when you take your wedding to Malliouhana, you place it in the capable hands of people who have been celebrating love and romance since the time the resort was born. There is no better dream come true for a destination couple, and it’s all found in Anguilla. SUMMER & FALL 2021

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Nirvana in

Photos courtesy of Royalton Negril

Negril, Jamaica

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WORDS BY STACEY MARCUS

other Nature was on a roll when she created Negril on the west coast of the Caribbean island of Jamaica. Sandy beaches, craggy cliffs and turquoise waters were part of her dazzling tapestry. Today the beautiful island welcomes visitors under the warmth of a radiant sun that paints the sky in a wash of exquisite colors at sunset. A laid-back vibe humming with reggae music permeates beaches dotted with people enjoying a slice of Caribbean life, Jamaican-style.

Photos courtesy of Royalton Negril

Negril is a lovely island for a destination wedding and Royalton Negril Resort and Spa’s all-inclusive paradise is the ideal spot to get hitched. The property boasts multiple locations where couples can say “I do.” Its most popular wedding venue is the Ocean Point arch, which is artfully set on Negril’s cliffs featuring unobstructed views. Couples looking to get married surrounded by different shades of blue and green can opt for a party on the boardwalk and those desiring a backdrop with sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea will be on cloud nine celebrating on Sky Terrace. “Aside from our dreamy wedding venues, Negril itself is perfect for a wedding, as it offers plenty for guests to do leading up to the big moment, such as jungle exploration and waterfall hikes, to sunset cruises and cliff jumping at the famous Rick’s Cafe,” says Taneek James, Wedding Coordinator at Royalton Negril. Guests will delight in one of the 407 modern suites where they can enjoy reservation-free dining at eight restaurants and a medley of activities and entertainment. Whether your guests want to enjoy live shows or a late-night libation, the property is popping with things to do. Couples looking for a more exclusive experience can book one of the 140 suites at Hideaway at Royalton Negril, for an elegant adults-only vacation experience. Upgrading to the Diamond Clubä offers a bevy of extras including butler service and hors d’oeuvres, snacks and desserts at the Diamond Club Lounge. The best thing about getting married at Royalton Negril is the pure indulgence in a unique type of island luxury. Mother Nature will take care of almost everything you need and her helpers at Royalton Negril will handle the details to make sure the first chapter of your story is jammin’. SUMMER & FALL 2021

Designer Weddings and Ancient Romance in

Riviera Maya mexico

WORDS BY HOLLY V. KAPHERR

Just over an hour from the Cancún airport, the Riviera Maya is serene and natural, much quieter and more relaxed than its party-girl sister to the north. The TRS Yucatan is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort within a compound housing three other all-inclusives from the Palladium brand. If you’ve got kids in your wedding party, no problem. Families can stay at Grand Palladium Colonial Resort & Spa, Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort & Spa or Grand Palladium White

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Photos courtesy of Palladium Hotel Group

esorts dot the coastline of the Mexican Caribbean, and choosing just one where you’ll throw the most important party of your life might seem impossible. For those with luxury taste, but no time for a deep dive into the details, the TRS Yucatan Hotel by Palladium in Riviera Maya is a great fit.

Sand Resort & Spa, and just hop over to the TRS Yucatan for the wedding on the resorts’ complimentary shuttles. The sprawling property is lush and jungle-like with the beach just steps away from almost anywhere – a perfect setting for an intimate ceremony or an event near the water. Upon booking, couples are given access to their own wedding coordinator, who will guide them through the planning process from beginning to end. The Weddings by Palladium program is led by celebrity planner Karen Bussen, who has executed A-list weddings for celebs like Robert Downey Jr. and former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz. Bussen has put her impeccable taste to work with six packages that include one of four ceremony locations and all the décor that goes with it. Couples can marry on the beach under a pergola, at the beach gazebo, at the resort’s colonial-style Catholic chapel or indoors in a natural-light-filled room at the spa. “I am obsessed with quality,” says Bussen. “I want our couples to feel like VIPs from the moment they step out of their taxi to the moment they check out. This is all about telling the story of the couple’s romance and creating magic from start-to-finish.”

Photos courtesy of Palladium Hotel Group

Bussen has created little moments of distinction to include with any wedding package, like a taco and tequila bar or craft cocktail party inside the resort’s new hidden speakeasy. With every wedding, you’ll be privy to a plethora of special memory-making moments, like a photoshoot for you and your love on the beach, breakfast in bed or room upgrade. Don’t miss the Chic Cabaret & Restaurant, a sexy way to get the party started on a Monday, Wednesday or Friday night. The dancing, costuming and acrobatics are eye-popping enough, but the five-course dinner will have you and your guests’ tastebuds tantalized, too. With curated weddings by celebrity wedding planner Karen Bussen and a bevy of activities to keep your guests on their toes from dawn to dusk, the TRS Yucatan is a busy couple’s dream. SUMMER & FALL 2021

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mexico

A Relaxed Respite in

Cancún WORDS BY AUDREY COLE he new Haven Riviera Cancún Resort is a quick ride from the Cancún airport. You will notice immediately that Haven is something a little different. You’ll feel a luxurious elegance in the open, tropical design where you can see through to the Caribbean Sea from the entrance. One of the best features of Haven Riviera Cancún is the soundscape. Many resorts in the Cancún area are full of people wanting to party and have a very “spring break” vibe. At Haven, the atmosphere is much more relaxed. Don’t get me wrong – there are tons of things to do like morning yoga, volleyball, paddle boarding, and weekly burlesque and magic shows. You can pop up to Cancún or the local Maya ruins and enjoy some serious fun, then come back and fall asleep to the Caribbean softly lapping at the shore outside your window. Haven Riviera Cancún is a couples-centric, adults-only, all-inclusive beachfront resort directly on the coast between Cancún and Riviera Maya. Here everything is geared toward your romantic tropical adventure, whether it’s resting in your private cabana by the Caribbean, playing beach volleyball with friends,

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Photos courtesy of Haven Resorts & Spas

learning to make paella or sushi, luxuriating in the fabulous MySenses Spa, or topping off the evening with a signature cocktail at Moons Cabaret and Lounge or at one of several restaurants providing exciting culinary experiences. For weddings, Haven is set up to offer everything you can imagine. They have an on-site wedding and events team who works with you to make sure every detail is just right. Haven has several sites for romance-related events, including various gardens and lawns overlooking the ocean. The events team has relationships with local vendors and can provide any style or theme you want – classic, retro, contemporary – you name it. One of the big differences between Haven and other wedding-focused resorts is that Haven allows only one wedding per day. Most of the venues are appropriate for 20-40 attendees, but they can also accommodate larger events. For a tropical destination wedding, Haven Riviera Cancún provides all a couple could ask for – gorgeous surroundings catering to dreamy desires and a whole staff waiting to create a perfect day.

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mexico

Fall in Love with

Mayakoba MEXICO’S HIDDEN GEM

WORDS BY JENNIFER STEIN

The hard decision is narrowing down where to stay in this sprawling country. One of my favorite areas is Mayakoba in Riviera Maya. The Caribbean Sea and white sand beaches never disappoint and properties like Banyan Tree Mayakoba (about a 50 minute drive south of the Cancún airport) deliver a stellar, high-end experience you’ll be talking about for years to come. The Asian influences on hospitality, architecture and food transcend and create a perfect union with the vibrancy and culture of Mexico. For the engaged couple looking to marry, Banyan Tree Mayakoba provides everything from beachfront backdrops to expansive travertine, open-air patios with panoramic views of lagoons, mangroves and the Caribbean Sea in the distance.

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Photos courtesy of Banyan Tree Mayakoba

exico’s coastlines offer an array of options these days. From modernluxe properties and quaint haciendas, to the friendliness of the locals and the outstanding food, all of this gives couples good reason to flock here to tie the knot or celebrate having just done so.

The newest addition to Banyan Tree Mayakoba is the venue MK Blue. Be prepared for this space to take your breath away. The high-ceilinged white palapa-style structure is offset by the deep greens of the surrounding forest and oversized wooden deck. Long drapes hang from the ceiling giving it a soft, inviting look. The space is large, but the white billowing curtains make it feel intimate.

Photos courtesy of Banyan Tree Mayakoba

The biggest selling point at MK Blue is the noise curfew. There isn’t one. Most resorts have a nine or 10 p.m. noise curfew, forcing groups to go indoors into a ballroom or private area. Not here. You can literally party the night away under the stars in paradise. After you’ve said your “I do’s,” stick around for an exclusive honeymoon getaway. You’ll delight in the couple’s spa casitas and secluded villas complete with outdoor soaking tubs, private pools and oversized beds. Banyan Tree Mayakoba is the ultimate romantic retreat for two, giving you the seclusion of a private villa with the amenities of a traditional resort. When it comes to saying “I do” or “we did,” traveling to Mayakoba will be well worth the investment. And Banyan Tree Mayakoba offers unique and unparalleled service and accommodations, ideal for making destination wedding or honeymoon dreams come true. SUMMER & FALL 2021

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europe

Wine, Dine & Wed in

Portugal

WORDS BY HOLLY V. KAPHERR isbon might be Portugal’s heart, but the Alentejo Region is the country’s soul – a perfect spot to say “I do” among groves of olive and cork trees, expansive vineyards and medieval castles. The Southern region stretches from the border of Spain in the east to the Atlantic Ocean in the west and is known for its gorgeous vistas overlooking fertile hills, dotted with picturesque towns and villages. Alentejo’s Pousadas of Portugal are its go-to accommodations, especially for events like weddings. These hotels were transformed by the Portuguese government, making use of historical monuments and buildings and turning them into three, four and five-star accommodations and venues. Tucked away in the hills around Alentejo’s largest town, Évora, is the 16th century Pousada Convento de Arraiolos. The bleach-white former convent features rooms centered around a sanctuary filled with singing birds and citrus trees. Marry against the idyllic pastoral backdrop surrounding the hotel, with rows of vines producing Alentejo’s famous wines (which, of course, can be served at your reception), or in the on-site

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Photos courtesy of (top to bottom): Turismo Alentejo (1st and 2nd), CM Borba (3rd)

Photos courtesy of Arch. Tdp (1st), Paulo Ribeiro (2nd)

Catholic chapel, lined with traditional Portuguese cobalt azulejo tiles. Within Évora’s medieval walls, the five-star M’AR De AR Aqueduto hotel (a former medieval palace from the 16th century) is an ideal spot for couples looking for a more modern spot to wed with plenty of activities surrounding the main event. Many of the well-appointed rooms face the town’s aqueduct, completed in 1537, uplit in the evenings for a romantic showcase. The hotel’s venue hall was formerly the building’s chapel. Wed with a city view on the hotel’s rooftop, then party on the hotel’s lawn under a poolside tent. Hold your welcome dinner at Café Alentejo for an excellent sampling of traditional dishes, including the region’s most-famous meat, the acorn-fed black pork. Part of the collection of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the 57-suite São Lourenço do Barrocal is a sprawling agritourism property featuring true farmto-table experiences. Lemon and orange trees flourish throughout the property, SUMMER & FALL 2021

and giant rosemary bushes perfume the air. The hotel offers a bevy of memorable activities, including hot air balloon rides, biking and hiking trails and horseback riding. Request the honeymoon suite, a one-bedroom cottage with private terrace, and calm any pre-wedding jitters in the full-service spa’s wine barrel hot tub with a view to the area’s castle. Wed in the olive grove or poolside with a view to the hotel’s vast gardens, and serve the hotel’s proprietary wine for a hyperlocal touch. Both affordable and extravagant, your wedding budget will go far in Portugal. Buying out a property isn’t out of the question with advanced planning, and with day trips to cork producers and terra cotta pottery studios, there are plenty of options for charming, takehome favors and wedding party gifts along the way. History lovers, foodies and oenophiles will all find something to love about Alentejo – delicious foods, first-class wine and impossibly beautiful backdrops for that perfect wedding portrait. DESTINATION WEDDINGS WORLD TOUR

europe

Italy

The You Know & the Italy You Don’t Know

WORDS BY CAROLYN STEERE

With so many amazing places to explore, choosing a wedding venue with a central location is an important consideration. The country wine estate Borgo Argiano is a perfect base, not only because of its convenient location ( just 20 minutes from Siena), but also due to its amazing vistas and serene atmosphere. After a busy day of touring, it is a delight to retreat to your private terrace to enjoy a glass of local wine and savor tranquil moments overlooking the beautiful view. The estate’s roots date back to medieval times, but the property is recently restored with elegance and comfort in mind. Spacious apartments with convenient kitchens allow guests to prepare a simple meal, while the main building serves as a gathering place for guests with an inviting lounge and library, terrace and cozy courtyard. Adding to its charm, there is a tiny private chapel with

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Photos courtesy of Borgo Argiano (top), Davide Bischeri (bottom)

uscany has long been a popular destination known for exquisite rolling hills, olive groves, vineyards and picturesque mountaintop villages. Regarded as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Tuscany boasts an amazing number of charming localities to visit. Its capital, Florence, is home to some of the world’s most famous Renaissance art and architecture, including Michelangelo’s “David” statue, the works of Botticelli and the Duomo cathedral. Nearby Pisa, with its famous leaning tower, and the medieval cities of Siena and San Gimignano are also must-see locations.

stained-glass windows at the center of the complex. Borgo Argiano takes pride in hosting small weddings with exclusive use of the 12 apartments – including the Grande Suite. In western Tuscany, the wine and wellness boutique hotel, Conti di San Bonifacio is yet another ideal destination wedding venue. Whether you are planning an intimate or grand event, vow renewal or elopement, Conti di San Bonifacio’s talented wedding professionals and culinary team have a reputation for implementing an amazing event. The resort’s hilltop setting invites your guests to restore and refresh as they soak in the vistas or busy themselves wine tasting, exploring the region on a Vespa, cruising to the island of Elba or a plethora of other activities.

Photos courtesy of (top to bottom) Borgo Argiano (1st and 4th), Carolyn Steere (2nd and 3rd)

South of Venice along the Adriatic coast, the region of Le Marche (pronounced “lay markay”) is one of the country’s best-kept secrets. Here you can experience authentic Italy, while avoiding throngs of tourists.

Another Le Marche gem is Casa Sant’Elia, an uber charming and lovingly restored villa. Casa Sant’Elia is ideal for a more intimate, authentic Italian experience in a home-like setting with a very personal touch. The villa itself can accommodate up to 10 guests, with an additional six guests in an adjacent home. Nestled among the surrounding vineyards, the views from the villa are amazing – providing the perfect backdrop for a destination ceremony and reception for up to 100 guests. The boutique Hotel Leone, in the picturesque hilltop village of Montelparo is another special find. Co-owners Tim and Madeline purchased this 16th century palazzo and carefully restored it to its former glory. The eight cozy rooms are each artfully decorated with amazing views of the rolling hills. Events can be held in an elegant drawing room, on one of three spacious terraces or in the charming brick restaurant. The service here is outstanding and the food is Michelin quality. Stretching for around 100 miles along the Adriatic coast, Le Marche is a region where you can experience authentic Italy, stunning coastline with beautiful beaches, art and culture, vineyards and olive groves. It has been described as Tuscany as it was 20 years ago – both gorgeous and uncrowded. It truly is undiscovered Italy.

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Photos courtesy of (top to bottom, left to right) Davide Bischeri (1st, 2nd, 3rd and 5th), Andrea Volpini (4th)

The best way to discover the region and its many hidden treasures is by car, guided by your GPS. A villa is the way to go in Le Marche and newly constructed Villa Olivo is decked out with everything one could ask for to host a destination wedding including a spa, gourmet kitchen, indoor and outdoor living and eating spaces, pool and spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea. There are numerous charming locations on property for a rehearsal dinner or post wedding brunch as well. Ceremonies and receptions are generally set up in a tented area with sea views, twinkling lights and hanging vines adding to the ambiance.

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CHÂTEAU COUTURE IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE

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Photography by James x Schulze Planning and Design by GATHER Events

Journey to the South of France and there you will find purple fields of lavender, breath-taking ocean views, miles of vineyards and stunning French châteaus. GATHER Events partnered with a team of vendors to create magic in one of our favorite European destinations. 1 & 2: ”When searching for the perfect location in France as part of our new European launch, we came across so many beautiful châteaus and luxury resorts but one caught our attention early on: the stunning Château Saint Georges in Grasse, a medieval town often considered to be the world’s capital of perfume,” says GATHER Events. “The property owner, Anca Bartha, has done an incredible job with the historic building’s restoration and you’ll not find a more lovely host.” Complimenting the destination, our stunning couple fits perfectly into the scene. She is wearing a gown by Alon Livné White, he’s in a suit by Pahl & Bauer, flowers by Miss Rose by Perrine and hair and makeup by Karine Brossard.

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3 & 4: “Designer Alon Livné’s Isabella Dress perfectly captures the essence of sleek French fashion while bringing elements from the international design community. We love the simplicity of the silhouette and how the ruffles and movement of the gown pay homage to the nearby sea. Our bride’s blue suede shoes are the perfect accent to bring in the iconic French color and double as her something blue,” says GATHER Events. “Tying it all together, Karine Brossard focused on dewey fresh makeup and a natural, slightly windswept updo to embrace the coastal environment.” Our groom looks equally sleek in his suit by Pahl & Bauer.

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5 & 6: “To create the dreamy tablescape, we worked with local Aktuel Event Rentals and Silk & Linen table linens to provide the perfect canvas to paint the picture,” says GATHER Events. “Tono & Co silk runners and Borrowed Blu napkins and delicate rose gold flatware perfectly compliment the gorgeous French ceramics.”

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8 7: “We love using surprising areas to design and delight our clients and their guests. The intimate ceremony space was set up in the garden of the estate, using the stonework and stairs as a backdrop. Miss Rose by Perrine did an incredible job building a floral structure for the ceremony to merge with the beautiful Provencal architecture and to create a chic and elegant look. We love the monochromatic feel of the white stone, chairs and textured florals,” says GATHER Events. 8 & 9: “We love the simplicity of the modern French chic aesthetic, with a certain… je ne sais quoi … understated elegance. We chose a timeless and delicate color palette by focusing on washed beachy earth tones like soft French blues, nudes, browns and some grays,” says GATHER Events. “The traditional French elements throughout the shoot’s vignettes give a nod to local specialties: fashion, local treats, wine, hand-dyed silks and simple ceramics.”

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10: “The beautiful letterpress stationery suite designed by Swell Press takes understated elegance to another level! The neutral tones, rich textures, tassel detail, and classy modern fonts echo the sophisticated minimal look that is the chic in French design,” says GATHER Events. 11 & 12: A mix of dried and fresh florals make up the bouquet and the boutonniere designed by Miss Rose by Perrine. The whimsical yet upscale combination pairs perfectly with this photo shoot’s aesthetic. 13: With a backdrop this beautiful, who wouldn’t be smiling? Our gorgeous couple is honeymoon ready. Makeup and Hair by Karine Brossard, dress by Alon Livné and suit by Pahl & Bauer. SPECIAL THANKS TO planning & design: GATHER Events, gatherevents.com, photography: James x Schulze, jamesandschulze.com, venue: Chateau Saint Georges, chateausaintgeorges-grasse.com, rentals: Aktuel, aktuel.fr, florals: Miss Rose by Perrine, missrose.fr, linens: Silk & Linen, silk-and-linen.com, napkins: Borrowed BLU, borrowedblu.com, runner: Tono + Co, tonoandco.com, stationery: Swell Press, swellpresspaper.com, makeup & hair: Karine Brossard Makeup Artist, karinebrossard.com, dress boutique: Zo & Willow Bridal, zoandwillow.com, dress designer: Alon Livné White, alonlivnewhite.com, ribbons: Nettle & Silk, etsy.com/shop/nettletextiles, menswear designer: Pahl & Bauer, pahlundbauer. com, ring: My Golden Age Lab, mygoldenagelab.com, ring box: The Mrs. Box, themrsbox.com, getting ready robe: Flora Nikrooz, flora-nikrooz.com, shoes: Nordstrom, nordstrom.com & models: Enjoy Models Agency, enjoy-models.com

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S P OT L I G H T D E ST I N AT I O N OA H U

RE-INTRODUCE YOURSELF TO OAHU:

WORDS BY JENNIFER STEIN

ne of the hardest questions to answer when people ask about Hawaii is, “what’s your favorite island?” The reality is, they all are – but for totally different reasons. Each island offers something unique that the others don’t. So your best course of action is to visit them all! Oahu is special because of the diversity it offers. From the bustling city of Honolulu and its prized Waikiki Beach to its incomparable North Shore and all the beautiful beaches and nature in between, this destination is worth the long haul flight.

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Buckle up as we review where you should stay, eat and play for your destination wedding or honeymoon.

STAY

Waikiki Beach – One of the “new kids on the block” and arguably the most luxurious in Waikiki is The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach. This two tower, 552 room property brings the impeccable service and lavish hospitality Ritz-Carlton is known for. Complete with state-of-the-art amenities, two roof-top infinity pools with picture-perfect views of the ocean and accommodations ranging from studio to four-bedroom suites, ensure you and your guests will have died and gone to real estate heaven. DESTINATIONIDO.COM

Photos courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach

HAWAII’S HOTTEST ISLAND

Photos courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach

Suites offer well-appointed modern kitchens, floor-to-ceiling windows (taking advantage of those stunning views of the ocean) and outdoor lanais. Most couples look for a “home away from home” when traveling for their destination wedding or honeymoon and this is it.

EAT

Paia Fish Market Waikiki – We like to mix it up when it comes to where to eat. Sometimes the best meals are those that simply keep it fresh in a casual setting. Paia Fish Market is exactly that. Go for the grilled Mahi Mahi and dine outside. Sushi Sho – This 10-seat intimate sushi experience is led by chef Keiji Nakazawa SUMMER & FALL 2021

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and provides a culinary sojourn for the senses. Paired perfectly with sake, each otherworldly bite will take you (and your taste buds) on an unforgettable journey. Located at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach.

La Vie – Once you’ve had your fill of seafood and are ready for a little change, check out La Vie. Featuring breathtaking ocean views, this French restaurant offers three and five-course options paired with French wines and inspired cocktails. Rainbow Drive-in – Another option for the casual lovers in the group, Rainbow Drive-in is a local’s favorite. Try their Loco Moco for breakfast or Sweet Bread French Toast. It’s worth the calories – just get a surf lesson later. Quiora – A true al fresco Italian dining experience but with views of the ocean and bustling Waikiki. Located at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach, Quiora is dishing up traditional Italian cuisine with seasonal ingredients on your plate and live music for your ears.

PLAY

Diamond Head – Take a hike around one of the most iconic and recognized landmarks in Hawaii.

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Photos in this spread courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach

Ono Seafood – You won’t find better authentic poke anywhere. It’s a true “hole in the wall” establishment, but is serving up some of the best cuisine in Honolulu.

Surf Waikiki – Perfect for beginners, the waves are moderate, but the views are epic. Rentals and instructors can be found steps away from the water. Pearl Harbor – A short drive from Honolulu and worth a visit, even if you’re just doing a layover. Remember and honor the past at one of our nation’s most historic and iconic memorials. Lomilomi Massage – One of the finest spas in Waikiki, enjoy a Huki Huki Treatment at The Ritz-Carlton, Waikiki Beach Spa. This 105-minute treatment includes a tea leaf mud wrap, Lomilomi massage and scalp treatment. No matter where you stay, eat or play on this magical island, I can guarantee you’ll fall madly in love with the destination, the culture and everything it has to offer. Give your nuptials a little “aloha” and start planning your dream destination wedding.

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G U E ST B O O K

Meet Me at The Altar Stylish Ideas for Your Ceremony

No matter where you decide to tie the destination knot, your ceremony backdrop should embrace the location you’re in. If you’ve chosen a tropical destination, a bright pop of color and exotic flowers can enhance that tropical feel that attracted you to the destination. If you’re getting married in a place like Italy, soft colors and lush greens can feel more organic. Wherever you’ve decided to say “I do,” let the destination inspire and guide your choices. The following pages showcase beautiful backdrops that we hope will inspire your own walk down the destination aisle.

Edgy Inspiration The geometric design of this arch is repeated in the flower petal design surrounding the couple. The softness of the floral installation gives some lightness and romance to the overall design. Set in Palm Springs, California, the bright white and green shades allow for the architecture of the buildings to shine through. VENDORS – Photography: James X Schulze, jamesandschulze.com, Event Planning & Design: BrownHot Events, brownhotevents.com, Venue: Colony Palms Hotel, colonypalmshotel.com, Produced By: The Bridal Bar, bridalbar.com, Floral Design: Isari Flower Studio + Event Design, isariflowerstudio.com, Ceremony Structure: Enticing Tables, enticingtables. com, Hair: Davee Troublefield of The Troublefield Lifestyle, facebook.com/davee.troublefield, Makeup: Gabriella Shpirt of The Troublefield Lifestyle, facebook.com/davee.troublefield, Hair Combs & Earrings: Maria Elena Headpieces & Accessories, mariaelenaheadpieces.com, Cuff Bracelets: Haute Bride, hautebride.com, Wedding Dresses & Styling: Lazaro by JLM Couture, jlmcouture.com/lazaro, Ceremony Menswear: Friar Tux, friartux.com, Female Model: Brittny Ward & Male Model: Kodi Baker, kodibaker.com

Mixing Tradition When combining cultures at your destination wedding, giving a nod to tradition in a modern way is always a win. Ornate, white chairs are placed beneath a traditional mandap for the couple’s ceremony in which they exchange Jaimala garlands of red roses. The ceremony set-up features a floor lounge of embellished rugs, pillows and poufs while the mandap was constructed with modern, rose gold curved beams on a wood platform – all laced with vibrant red garlands. VENDORS – Photography: Jeremy Chou Photography, jeremychou.com, Producer & Creative Director: Crosby + Jon, crosbyandjon.com, Venue: Grand Velas Riviera Maya, grandvelas.com, Grand Velas Project Director: Ary Iturralde, grandvelas.com, Florals & Rentals: Alquimia Events, alquimiaevents.com, Hair & Makeup: Zoë Elizabeth Ashley-Smith, zoeelizabethmakeup.com, Wedding Dress: Carol Hannah Bridal, carol-hannah. com, Bridal Jewelry: Untamed Petals, untamedpetals. com, Bridal Shoes: Bella Belle Shoes, bellabelleshoes. com, Henna Artist: Loto Mehndi, instagram.com/ lotomehndi & Photo Assistant: Lauren Renee Photo, laurenreneedesigns.com

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Traditional and Romantic Although this property is in California, it feels like Italy with the cypress trees and stone stairway. The traditional look of the arch, paired with the airy, monochromatic feel of the floral design lends itself perfectly to the destination. VENDORS – Photography: Rebecca Theresa Photography, rebeccatheresa.com, Design: Detailed Touch Events, detailedtouchevents.com, Production: Be Inspired PR, beinspiredpr.com, Venue: Klentner Ranch in Carpinteria, California, klentnerranch.com, Floral Design: Coco Rose Design, cocorosedesign.com, Rentals: Theoni Collection, theonicollection. com, Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Jenny Yoo Collection, jennyyoo.com, Hairstyling: Teddi Prior for Page Beauty, pagebeauty.com, Makeup: Tanya Bures for Page Beauty, pagebeauty.com & Bridesmaid Models: Kaila Lim, Sandra Vega and Nikki Anne Spahn

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Barefoot and Black-Tie Nothing says “nautical” like driftwood, but what elevates this to elegance are the stunning blooms, which appear to be growing out of it. The one-sided arch is a unique take on tradition. VENDORS – Photography: Sanaz Photography, sanazphotography.com, Planning & Design: Onyx + Redwood, onyxandredwood.com, Production: Be Inspired PR, beinspiredpr.com, Floral Design: Precious & Blooming, preciousandblooming.com, Wholesale Flowers: FiftyFlowers, fiftyflowers.com & Rentals: Archive Rentals, archiverentals.com

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Colorful in Cancún This rainbow inspired, asymmetric arch gives a simple, yet impactful visual to this wedding. On the beaches of Riviera Maya, Mexico, this fun and romantic set-up is a perfect fit for the tropical backdrop of Cancún. VENDORS – Photography: Bohemia Photography, bohemia-photography.com, Design & Planning: Best Bride, Venue Sourcing & Travel Logistics: Wedaways, wedaways.com, Florist: La Distribuidora CDMX, ladistribuidorafloristas.com, Venue: Grand Velas Riviera Maya, rivieramaya.grandvelas.com, Hair & Makeup: Isaac Marquez & Heryk Corpus, isaacmarquez.mx and Instagram. com/herykcorpus and Headpieces & Tiaras: Dominique Tiaras & Ellee Couture Boutique, instagram.com/dominiquetiaras and elleecoutureboutique.com

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Draping Floral Utilizing your destination’s local fauna is always a brilliant idea. In Hawaii, orchids and anthurium grow in abundance, so not only is the look opulent and stunning, it also evokes a tropical, authentic feel to the destination it’s captured in. VENDORS – Photography: Schyne Photography, schyne.com, Coordination: Say I Do by Karisa, sayidobykarisa.com, Florals: Su-V Expressions, flowersbysuvexpressions.com & Venue: Hawaii Kai Private Estate

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Hideaways Honeymoon in

SOUTHERN THAILAND S

pin the globe to seek out the most pristine tropical destination wedding or honeymoon location in the world and you could land on Phuket, Thailand. The island is a top contender for unwinding on the ocean and relaxing in some of the world’s best spas in-between adventures. This jungle-meets-the-water destination has it all for honeymooners and groups who want something truly out of the ordinary in a culture that’s unbelievably warm and welcoming. Trisara, a resort in Phuket, is a destination unto itself. Just 15 minutes from the airport, it’s perched on a hillside on the northwestern shore, winding all the way down to the water’s edge and beyond. You’ll tiptoe between lily ponds to a variety of dining pavilions and outdoor relaxation areas before entering your villa, which inside-and-out is entirely private (except for the 180-degree ocean view). With a Michelin-star restaurant on property (PRU), a Muay Thai boxing ring and training facility, tennis, watersports, and cooking classes, there’s plenty to do right outside your villa door.

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The on-property Jara Spa is certainly a highlight for anyone seeking a bit of R&R on the island. Within its walls, you’ll find an offering that includes a Royal Trisara 6 Hand Massage (make that twelve for couples). That’s right, three therapists each working away that last bit of wedding stress. Then your private paradise awaits as you retire to your pool villa complete with infinity pool, outdoor lounge area, and indoor/outdoor showers. The sunsets from your deck are awe-inspiring, complemented by fresh flowers updated daily in outdoor urns. These suites feel like private residences – spaces so large you never have to leave. When you do venture out in season (December to April), you’ll find a jetty off Trisara’s shore that ushers resort guests onto a variety of vessels for private charters, a day at sea to snorkel and local tours of the coastline. A half-day trip to Phang Nga Bay, home of the famed James Bond Island, is a highlight, as are the Phi Phi Islands for a sunset cruise. If your adventures are by land, consider paying a visit to the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. With over 30-acres of DESTINATIONIDO.COM

Photography courtesy Trisara

WORDS BY HARMONY WALTON

preserve, the resident rescue elephants are happily retired and available for up close viewing (and feeding) in a resortstyle environment designed for these gentle giants. Teahouses in town are another local highlight. With so many families serving up their special brew, you could spend days dining on different desserts and sweet treats. One spot not to miss is i46 Old Town. The family-run business boasts a shop in front with local remedies for a variety of ailments and a beautiful teahouse in back, just below their own apartments. The elders will tell tales of their travels and life experiences, while you enjoy home-brewed concoctions and baked confections. A day of textile shopping and tea sipping can only be improved with a stop for gelato at the end of the trek at Malou Tea Atelier. This posh eatery is packed with see-and-beseen locals and travelers alike dining on cold brew tea and ice cream delights almost too pretty to eat. If you fall in love with Phuket so much so that you want to share it with more than just your mate, consider an exotic destination wedding on the beach or in one of Trisara’s many private residences (that feel more like boutique hotels). Say “I do” over a Plexiglas-clad pool or go barefoot in the sand before dining on authentic Thai dishes with fresh vegetables SUMMER & FALL 2021

plucked from their very own sustainable farm. Staying in one of the residences means up to seven bedrooms to entertain guests, full size pools, lush gardens and grounds, and plenty of party spaces surrounding you. The residences even come with a dedicated staff including a cook, to cater to your every need. Whether you’re ushering your guests around the globe for a destination wedding or seeking total privacy with land and sea fun for your honeymoon, Trisara and the island of Phuket are matches made in heaven for celebrating these special milestones. HONEYMOON HIDEAWAYS

Honeymooning in

Photography courtesy of Scenic Luxury Cruises

ANTARCTICA

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WORDS BY JUDY KOUTSKY

or those looking for a bucket-list worthy honeymoon in a gorgeous locale, it’s hard to beat Antarctica. This once-in-alifetime adventure combines luxury and adventure. Plus, plenty of penguins. Unless you’re a scientist living in Antarctica, the only way to truly see this destination is via ship. There are no hotels or resorts on the great white continent. So, a luxury cruise is the way to go. But, know that not all ships are created equal. Ships larger than 500 passengers can’t anchor or dock in Antarctica; meaning passengers can’t get off to do land excursions. And, since that’s the main reason you’re visiting, be sure to pick a ship that has 200 passengers or less (only 100 passengers can go ashore at a time). Smaller ships mean more time exploring this ice-covered wonder.

The Scenic Eclipse ship with Scenic Luxury Cruises is a good choice, because it’s considered a luxury yacht. Be sure to book the Antarctica, South Georgia and Falkland Islands itinerary. Many travelers see just as much – if not more – wildlife in South Georgia and the Falklands, than just Antarctica alone. The Scenic Eclipse houses a maximum of 200 travelers in Antarctica and takes ocean cruising to a whole new level. Think over-the-top luxury, unique one-of-a-kind experiences and the latest in safety. The full-inclusion cruise package means that the only extra expenses are the helicopter, submarine excursions and spa services. All flights, transfers, tips, shore excursions, in-suite mini-bar, butler service, spa access, and all on board dining and premium branded beverages are included in the price.

This new ship (it was built in 2019) has 114 suites and 192 crew for the 200 passengers in Antarctica. That translates into a lot of personalized service. Each suite has a private veranda or terrace. If you want the ultimate in space and luxury, book the 2,637 square foot Two-Bedroom Penthouse Suite, which has separate sleep and lounge areas, plus butler service. Must-See Shore Excursions While a nice ship is important during your Antarctica sojourn (you could be on it for 18 days or more), the shore excursions offered by that ship are equally important. Scenic’s all-inclusive shore excursions range from whale watching on Zodiacs and kayaking around icebergs to snowshoeing up mountains to see penguin colonies. But for the ultimate Antarctica experience, be sure to book the helicopter and submarine tours. One of the few ships in this destination to offer helicopter rides, the Eclipse has a state-of-the-art Airbus H130, which is one of the quietest helicopters in the skies. The six travelers onboard will get views of this ice-covered continent that few others ever experience. The ship’s submarine is called the Scenic Neptune and takes six guests at a time. Descending approximately 1,000 feet, it’s an amazing way to see fast-moving seals and penguins. Both excursions are well worth the splurge. Up Close & Personal Wildlife For most people, penguins are a big reason (if not the very top reason) to come to Antarctica and these friendly creatures do not disappoint. There are around five million penguins on the continent ranging in size and features. Don’t be surprised if you’re able to come to within feet of these beautiful creatures. In addition to penguins, you’ll have the opportunity to see plenty of whales (including orca, humpback, fin and blue whales) along with seals (including leopard and elephant seals). Fabulous wildlife viewing, luxurious accommodations aboard the ship, and amazing memories all make Antarctica a truly bucket-list honeymoon.

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Intimate PARIS WORDS BY SUSAN MOYNIHAN

J.K. Place Paris This Italian hotel company earned a cult following with their chic outposts in Florence, Rome and Capri, and after a five-year search, they chose Paris for their first international debut. Set in a former European consulate on quiet Rue de Lille, just two blocks from Musée d’Orsay, the 29-room hotel was worth the wait. Their bespoke Italian design (think handmade king beds and sumptuous fabrics) combines perfectly with French eclecticism for a one-of-a-kind space that is a delight to the senses, where every corner has something to draw the eye. Think Chinoiserie wallpaper next to cushy upholstered chairs, en suite marble fireplaces flanked by stately wooden cabinetry, and reclaimed mid-century furnishings and objets d’art sourced from Parisian flea markets. As a writer, I especially love the intriguing collection of art and fashion books, stacked on tables and bookshelves all throughout the property, making it feel much more personal and reflective of the brand’s chic clientele. The underground level hides a Sisley spa and a heated indoor lap pool – a rarity in Paris, let alone at a property as small as this. Dining comes from the first international branch of Miami’s Casa Tua, which features cozy Northern Italian dishes like risotto pomodoro, homemade burrata and tuna tartare dolloped with caviar. No wonder it’s already been named on the “It List” by Travel & Leisure.

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Photography courtesy of Hôtel Grand Powers

here’s no better way to enjoy Paris like a honeymoon insider than by checking into one of the city’s recently opened boutique hotels, set in the most intriguing areas of the city.

J.K. Place Paris

Photography courtesy of (top to bottom, left to right) J.K. Place Paris (1st & 2nd), Hôtel Grand Powers (3rd & 4th)

Hôtel Grand Powers

Hôtel Grand Powers Paris’s 8th arrondissement is home to iconic grand-dame hotels like Hôtel Plaza Athénée and Four Seasons Hotel Georges V, which makes the boutique Grand Powers feel even more special – like a hidden gem in one of the most elegant parts of the city. Set in a landmark Haussmann building, the century-old hotel underwent an eighteen-month, multimillion dollar renovation before reopening in 2019. The Art Decomeets-modern vibe is both timeless and romantic. Oversized rooms feature original crown molding and marble fireplaces, headboards in glossy lacquer or romantic velvet, and curved divans placed by oversized windows, creating an apartment-like vibe that you don’t want to leave. Second and fifth floor rooms have balconies, including some SUMMER & FALL 2021

J.K. Place Paris

Hôtel Grand Powers

with Eiffel Tower views. The jewel-size pink lobby bar makes excellent cocktails, and Café 52 restaurant puts a creative twist on café food – I’m still craving the roasted beet and pomegranate hummus. The intimate sub-floor Thala Spa offers a hammam, Jacuzzi and Dermalogica treatments…a nice treat after a day of exploring. The combination of style and discreteness has made it a go-to for musician and fashion types who want to stay under the radar in the heart of the Golden Triangle, just steps from Avenues Montaigne and Champs-Élysées. Cour des Vosges Tucked in the Marais district, Place des Vosges is Paris’s oldest planned square and considered to be one of the most beautiful in Europe. The 17th-century buildings lining it feature vaulted

arcade-style walkways housing an eclectic array of shops selling everything from modern art and jewelry to specialty tea by Dammann Frères. There’s no better way to enjoy the area than by checking into Cour des Vosges, a recently opened 12-room hotel from Parisian hotel company EVOK. The entranceway is discretely tucked behind a stone archway; if you didn’t know it was there, you would walk right by it, and that’s exactly the point. There is no lobby, just a small secretary desk for a brief check-in before you head up the marble staircase to the guest rooms. Befitting a historic building, each room is unique in shape and style. Room décor is both modern and timeless; details such as stainless-steel headboards contrast beautifully with original features like terra HONEYMOON HIDEAWAYS

Cour des Vosges

cotta floors and centuries-old painted ceilings, while king beds topped with cushy duvets and standalone soaking tubs give modern luxury. I couldn’t keep my eyes from the many windows that overlook the square, providing a unique glimpse of the historic square’s beauty. (Cour des Vosges is the only hotel on the square, so is the only place you can get this view without being in a private home.) Downstairs on the basement level is a spa-style Roman bath, bookable by guests for private use. The on-site tea room provides breakfast, lunch and dinner and award-winning pastries from master patissier Yann Brys. The end result is a hotel experience that is intimate, timeless and totally Parisian.

Hôtel ESprit Saint Germain

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Hôtel Esprit Saint Germain Okay, this one isn’t new; the beloved 28-room hotel opened in 2004, but recent renovation makes it feel new again and keeps its reputation as the place to stay in artsy SaintGermain-des-Prés. The hotel is set in an 18th-century private townhome, newly refreshed with custom fabric walls, patterned rugs and overstuffed furnishings done in soothing grey and white hues. The result is a calming and eclectic oasis in the heart of the city, in a neighborhood favored by artists and writers including Sartre, Hemingway and Picasso. I especially love the top floor Prestige Room or the larger Penthouse Suite, both accented with whitewashed timber beams and each with a private terrace overlooking SaintSulpice, Paris’s second-largest church. As beautiful as the environs are, it’s the service that makes Esprit Saint Germain so special. Two cozy living rooms, each with its own honor bar ( just write down what you sip and they’ll charge it to your room), invite you to relax any time of day or night. Early evening is a great time to mingle with other guests as the staff offers cocktails by the fire (try the signature St. Germain Spritz), before heading out to nearby restaurants or jazz clubs recommended by the hotel’s owner. Even the gym is a delight; tucked on the sixth floor overlooking Parisian rooftops, it has an elliptical machine, two-person sauna and is booked in one-hour periods per guest, so you can work out in private. Though it only has 28 rooms, the hotel has won every award in the book, including “Top 10 Paris Hotels” from Travel + Leisure and “Top Luxury Boutique Hotel Worldwide” by Luxury Travel Advisor. DESTINATIONIDO.COM

Photography courtesy of (top to bottom) Cour des Vosges (1st & 2nd), Hôtel Esprit Saint Germain (3rd)

Cour des Vosges

IMAGINE YOURSELF HERE.

EXCEPTIONAL TRAVEL PLANNING FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS We specialize in destination weddings, honeymoons and luxury escapes. Where it's not just a trip, it's an event.

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10 TIPS TO

KEEP CALM AND MARRY ON

ouples far and wide are finding it hard to keep their stress levels and anxiety at bay. It’s no wonder with what’s going on in this world right now. So how do you “keep calm and marry on?” These ten tips are meant to help you not only plan your wedding with a little less stress, but also ways to combat the anxious thoughts and feelings as they arise. I’m a stress case by nature, so many of these are tried and true tips from a fellow ball of anxiety.

HIRE A PLANNER If elementary school teachers and wedding planners haven’t proven their worth by now, I’m not sure when they will.

10 TIPS TO KEEP CALM AND MARRY ON

Wedding planners are saints sent from heaven above (well, good ones are anyway). Some of the reasons you may want to hire one (even if you’re convinced you can do it all on your own): • They are responsible for working with ALL your vendors and coordinating with them – ensuring they can be there if anything changes. • Destination weddings often include multiple events and therefore, multiple vendors. Depending on their scope of work – your planner will handle everything these additional events require. • They can handle any and every disaster imaginable so you don’t have to. • You will end up feeling like a guest at your own wedding. • They know event guidelines in different destinations to help ensure guests are safe and all precautions are thought through. DESTINATIONIDO.COM

Photo courtesy of Kurt Boomer Photography

WORDS BY JENNIFER STEIN

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CALL YOUR VENUE If, for some reason, you don’t hire a wedding planner, the first call you should make is to your venue. Find someone who will be your point of contact, and then find out who might be his or her second in line. A lot can change at hotels and venues, so it’s helpful to have more than one person on-site to communicate with. If your guest list shrinks or grows, if you have questions on protocols on social distancing or God forbid, you need to change your date – this is the first call you should make. UNPLUG Get off your computer, away from Pinterest and disengage from social media. Regularly. This is going to help your anxiety and if adopted long term, can be a lifelong solution to battling uncertainty and that mental hamster wheel. Get into nature, take a hike, a walk, a bike ride, do some yoga, read a novel, meditate, listen to music or maybe even take a bath – whatever it is that gives you joy and helps your overactive mind to take a moment and calm down. This much needed break is good for everyone and falls under my routine of selfcare.

HAVE FUN PINNING I know I just said, get away from Pinterest, but I really meant, just take a break from it. When you’ve completed your selfcare mentioned above, Pinterest is going to be a great way to have fun and get creative. Getting your imagination flowing and feeling like you’re crushing that to-do list can work wonders for stress. Pinning your bouquet ideas or table scape inspiration will help get you excited for your big day. But once you’ve landed on a design and handed it off to your vendors – don’t go second guessing yourself. Second guessing anything (especially your gown) is a slippery slope and will only add to your stress level. Chances are, your first instinct was the right one anyway.

WRITE IT DOWN When things are swimming around your mind and your to-do list is one of them, a good method to handle this is to keep a note pad with you at all times. Next to your bed, in your purse, on your desk and even your car can help get those thoughts and questions out of your mind and into a safe place. This allows you to come back to it when you have the time to work on it and feel confident you’re not forgetting anything. If you’re not a paper person – starting a “note” on your iPhone is a good way of keeping your racing mind accounted for in one central place.

WORK IT OUT Find a good workout regimen. I know this seems like an obvious one for some and an annoying reminder for others, but I promise – it really helps. I can see a distinct change in my moods and energy levels when I fall off the workout wagon. Really tune into the kind of workouts you like and you’ll be more successful at it. I used to love running until I injured myself and now the thought of donning running shoes makes me want to cringe. Instead I SUMMER & FALL 2021

find barre, yoga, weight lifting and high intensity training to be a good mix for me. Keep trying new things so you don’t get bored or in a rut. By finding a solid fitness plan, you’ll not only reduce stress, but also your waistline…and both of those will make you feel your best.

START A FACEBOOK GROUP Most of you should already have your wedding website set up – and that’s going to be crucial in helping update your guests in a more formal way outside of your invitations. One way to stay in touch and communicate with your loved ones on a regular and informal basis is a private Facebook group. Most people (young and old) are on Facebook and this option allows guests to communicate with one another as well as with you in a very casual setting. I’ve seen helpful information shared in this manner as well as an abundance of support heaped onto the couple. And let’s be honest, you probably need that right about now. It also allows guests to share in the excitement for your wedding away. Lastly, it’s free and could be a really beneficial tool in your communication arsenal.

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DECIDE TO GO WITH THE FLOW Life is full of ups and downs. If this year hasn’t proven that, I don’t know what will. One thing that will help your wedding come together in a stress-free manner is if you go with the flow. There will be problems that arise as you plan, and if you try to control every last detail, you’ll likely drive yourself (and your fiancé) a little crazy in the process. If you decide ahead of time to roll with these challenges instead of fighting them, your trip down the aisle will be a lot easier on everyone, especially you. PROCESS THE EMOTIONS Many couples are being thrown some serious curveballs as they plan. With that comes disappointment, anger and frustration. Deciding to go with the flow as mentioned above, doesn’t mean that you can’t have feelings about what’s happening around your wedding plans. The healthiest way to handle this is to acknowledge your emotions, don’t stuff them. If there are tears or anger - that’s okay and completely understandable. However, don’t hold it in or it will fester. Experience the emotion when it comes, recognize it, experience it and then let it go to move forward.

LEAN IN TO YOUR PARTNER This is your chance to work together for a common cause – your wedding! Take time together to work through some of the challenges you’re facing. Remember your soon-to-be spouse is on your side and your common goal is to have a wonderful wedding that you’ll remember for a lifetime. Work together to make that happen and communicate often. At the end of the day, remember what’s behind that wedding – the two of you vowing to spend your lives together. That’s what really matters… what doesn’t matter in the scheme of life: if the caterer has your choice of salmon preparation or if peonies will still be in season. 10 TIPS TO KEEP CALM AND MARRY ON

1 FASHION FORWARD

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Romancing the Vine

IN NAPA VALLEY Photography by James and Jess Floral and Design by Tyler Speier Events

There’s nothing not to love about wine country. The rolling hills, the constant sunshine and the fact that almost any backdrop includes wine – and lots of it – ensures couples will thoroughly enjoy their destination wedding or honeymoon. One of our favorite destinations (and vintners) in Napa Valley is Chandon. The spectacular open spaces and delectable sparkling wine are an idyllic marriage to help start your own.

A talented group of vendors came together to create magic in an unforgettable place. Tyler Speier was the genius behind both the overall design and the floral creations. 1. Our stunning bride just beams in her Amsale gown while her dashing groom steals some attention in his burgundy tux by Friar Tux.

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2 & 4. Set on the Oak Grove at Chandon, the reception shows off layers of linens atop a natural wood table and loosely gathered floral arrangements. Thinking of keeping your gathering intimate? Even the expansive lawn feels secluded and embraces the al fresco dining wine country is so well known for. 3. Our couple toasts to their future and to love. She is in a pantsuit by Amsale and he’s in a burgundy tux with black lapels by Friar Tux. Hair and makeup by PMA Style.

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5. Bright pops of dried citrus and assorted colors of ranunculus surround the stationery. Calligraphy by Jessica Yee Calligraphy. 6. Combinations of dried and fresh flowers adorn the farm table to bring in a natural feel, while the gold flatware and neutral linens by La Tavola give the reception an elevated look. 7. Hand-in-hand, our couple traverses the countryside. She’s holding a stunning bouquet of mixed florals including astilbe, anemone and pitcher plant, created by Tyler Speier.

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8 & 9. Having just said “I do” and overlooking the hills of Napa, our couple is honeymoon haute with their ceremony altar of papas grass, assorted greens and astilbe behind them. She’s a vision in a halter pantsuit by Amsale and him in a burgundy jacket and black pants by Friar Tux. Hair and makeup by PMA Style. SPECIAL THANKS TO floral and design: Tyler Speier Events, tylerspeier. com, photography: James and Jess, jamesandjess.com, venue: Chandon, chandon.com, videography: Elysium Productions, elysiumproductions.com, calligraphy: Jessica Yee Calligraphy, jessicayeecalligraphy.weebly.com, linens: La Tavola Fine Linens, latavolalinen.com, specialty rentals: Theoni, theonicollection.com, rentals: Bright Event Rentals, bright.com, cake: Crushcakes, crushcakes.com, favors: Sugarfina, sugarfina.com, chiffon: Bella Vista Designs, bellavistadesigns.com, female fashion: Amsale, amsale.com, men’s fashion: Friar Tux, friartux.com, hair and makeup: PMA Style (Maria Chang), professionalmakeupartistry.com & produced by: The Bridal Bar, bridalbar.com

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A S K T H E E X P E RT

5 TIPS FOR SOURCING YOUR

HAIR MAKEUP TEAM AFAR and

from

Have you ever attended a wedding and thought, “Wow, I barely recognize her!” because the bride’s hair and makeup look was so over-the-top? Or, “She has never looked more radiant!” because her hair and makeup style enhanced her natural beauty so much? inding the right glam squad can be as important as the gown, ring and flowers. You’re about to have your photos taken on one of the most important days of your life and want to look as flawless as you’ve always dreamed. So, how do you go about finding just the right hair and makeup team to take on the task? And, an even more important question, how do you source them from afar? We’ve enlisted the help of Katelyn McCullough, co-founder of Elwynn + Cass, a beauty concierge service that matches exceptional hairstylists and makeup artists with clients based on their personal needs such as style, budget, personality and location.

ASK THE EXPERT

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Photography courtest of Carmen Lopez Photography

Having been around the block with sourcing hair and makeup artists, we knew she’d have some expert advice on getting down the destination aisle in style.

When does it make sense to bring a hair and makeup team along and what should I expect with that process?

If you have found a hair and makeup team that you love located near where you live, and the options where you are getting married don’t fit the style you are looking for, then I would definitely consider bringing your team along with you. Also, if the options in that wedding location are fully booked, rather than stressing about finding an option nearby, it may make more sense to bring your own team. It will also give you peace of mind.

Photography courtesy of Carmen Lopez Photography (top), Julie Ferneau Photography (bottom)

In bringing your own hair and makeup team, there are a few logistical things you need to keep in mind, such as travel costs, accommodations, timing, etc. For a destination wedding, you need to book your hair and makeup artists at least seven-to-nine months in advance. From there, make sure that your hair and makeup artists arrive at least a day early to your wedding destination, especially if there is an early start time the day of the wedding. You will need to book and schedule the flights and hotel accommodations, as that is an expense that is covered by the client. More often than not, this can be overwhelming, so I would start this process early.

Are there any specific questions I should ask when trying to find the right person?

Depending on what style you are wanting for hair and/or makeup, I would advise asking these questions to get a better sense of the artist’s style and if it will be a good fit. • What is your preferred style for makeup? How much coverage do you normally use for makeup looks? • What types of products do you use? Do you have products for (insert skin type)? • Can you send me some examples of previous brides similar to my skin tone, eye color, hair texture, etc.? • How many services does it require to bring an additional artist with you? (If having a large group of people getting hair and makeup done.) SUMMER & FALL 2021

• Are there any additional costs other than the pricing you listed here (extra artist fee, early start fee, etc.)? • Do I need to consider different products given the climate? • What is the process of booking? (Deposit amount, payment schedule, etc.)

How can I work around not being able to do a trial with who I select, if I can’t get down to my destination ahead of time?

If I’m unable to afford bringing down my own traveling glam squad, what is the best way to find a good hair stylist and makeup artist in my chosen destination?

Come prepared and make sure to send inspiration photos of your desired looks to your hair and makeup artist(s), so they have a working idea of what you are looking for. Be very specific about what you like in each photo, such as if you like the lip color in one photo and the eye shadow in another.

First and foremost, start the process early (a year in advance, if possible). There are often limited choices in certain areas, so you will want to do your research and book early.

Also, ask to see similar looks to what you’re wanting from the makeup artist or hair stylist’s portfolio. This way you can imagine the look on yourself and see that it is possible.

Next, I would absolutely plan on a trial if you can. That way you can have peace of mind on the day of the wedding and know that you are both on the same page. Lastly, read their reviews and be thorough about the feedback they get to see what the artists’ strengths (and potential weaknesses) are.

What do I do if I am not happy with the results on my wedding day?

Finding the right fit from afar can be tricky, so I would lean on your other vendors for recommendations or even hire someone that can handle that process for you, such as a beauty concierge.

SAY SOMETHING! I cannot stress this enough. If you aren’t happy with the final look on your wedding day or want to make adjustments, do not hesitate to say something. The artist(s) won’t be offended and will make any adjustments they can to make sure you are happy with the final look. It’s your wedding day, so they want you to feel your absolute best and confident – both in person and in photos.

About Katelyn McCullough and Elwynn + Cass:

“We make sure that each client has the experience they are looking for, so if they want an artist to travel with them, we will coordinate that, or if they want an artist local to their wedding destination, we will make that happen. We work with artists all over the world, so we can make almost any scenario work for a client,” says McCullough. These artists have been vetted and sourced, so you don’t have to do the heavy lifting and McCullough says, “We can attest to their expertise, experience level and professionalism.” ASK THE EXPERT

THAILAND

HUA HIN TAYA + MIKA

REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

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“We planned five days of quality time with everyone to really soak it all in and enjoy the beautiful setting of Southern Thailand.”

words by: Kate Darnell photographer: Ken Tan Photo wedding planner: The Wedding Bliss Thailand

ovies and football go together like brides and grooms…or at least in this case they did. Taya was on-set filming her latest movie when her co-star (and professional football player) introduced her to Mika. Fast forward five years and this gorgeous couple decided to tie the knot in Mika’s home country of Thailand.

Although Thailand has lots of topography to choose from, the two knew the beach was where they would wed. “Thailand has such beautiful beaches, we couldn’t resist. Also, Baba Beach Club holds special significance because it is where Mika proposed. In fact our reception was just a few feet from exactly where he surprised me the year before,” recalls Taya. In November, 2019, family and friends (84 guests in all) were thrilled with the decision to fly to Thailand for the milestone

event. “We planned five days of quality time with everyone to really soak it all in and enjoy the beautiful setting of Southern Thailand,” says the bride. When it came to the planning, Taya and Mika relied heavily on their wedding planners – The Wedding Bliss. “We can both agree that they did such an amazing job! We are so incredibly happy that we hired wedding planners who worked so hard to deliver exactly what we dreamt,” says Taya.

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Live music and a “casual, tropical vibe” were on display for the couple’s beach nuptials. “We entered the ceremony separately to live music just before sunset. One of our closest friends married us on the sand with the gentle crashing waves to one side and our family and friends to the other. Honestly, it was all so much more beautiful than we could have hoped and it all went by like a dream,” says Taya.

“We both come from different places and industries and our friends flew in from every corner of the world. It was so special for us to see them all in one place, laughing and dancing.”

The reception encouraged their friends and family to get to know one another. “We assigned table numbers, but not seats because we wanted everyone to mingle and meet. We both come from different places and industries and our friends flew in from every corner of the world. It was so special for us to see them all in one place, laughing and dancing,” recalls the bride. A mix of international and Thai cuisine was served beach-barbeque style with live music in the background, “kept the dinner light and casual to match the tropical surroundings,” says the couple. The bride’s favorite memory of the day was inspired by friendly advice she received during her planning. “Married friends of ours told us to take a moment when we were standing under the arch to look away from each other and to the faces of all our friends and loved ones who had gathered around us. That moment, already swollen with love, seeing all the people smiling back at us…it was really so magical and overwhelming.”

VENDORS photographer: Ken Tan Photo, kentanphoto.com, wedding planner: The Wedding Bliss Thailand, theweddingblissthailand. com, ceremony/reception site: Baba Beach Club, bababeachclub.com, florist: IAMFLOWER, iamflower.co, stationery: Miidear, miidear.co, gown designer: Amore Thailand, facebook.com/amorethailand, groom’s clothing designer: Button Up, facebook.com/thebuttonup & cake: JoobJoob Bakery, passionjoobjoob.com SUMMER & FALL 2021

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RHODE ISLAND

BLOCK ISLAND MARGOT + TAYLOR

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words by: Courtney Kellar photographer: Jacqui Cole Photography wedding planning & design: Pure Luxe Bride

n true rom-com fashion, Margot and Taylor fell in love while waiting for a train in New York City on New Year’s Eve. After getting engaged, there was only one spot in the world Margot could see herself getting married. “I had dreamt of getting married on Block Island since I was a little girl – it’s my happy place,” says the bride. “I introduced Taylor to the island the first summer we were dating and, luckily, he quickly fell in love as much as I did.” In August, 2019, the couple’s friends and family weren’t surprised by Margot and Taylor’s decision to host a destination wedding in Rhode Island, and the couple was joined by a whopping 225 guests. Interestingly, the couple’s wedding planner, Pure Luxe Bride, is based out of Charleston, South Carolina, but otherwise the couple hired all local vendors. “We took [our planners] out of their comfort zone to Block Island, where they found the most amazing New England vendors that transformed our wedding dreams into reality,” says Margot. “Working with such a talented team and local vendors made everyone involved in our wedding feel totally at ease throughout the entire weekend.” The couple did an amazing job creating an event and atmosphere for their guests that brought their chosen destination to life. “We wanted the wedding to truly feel like Block Island – very summery, relaxed and unquestionably fun,” says the bride. “Every planning decision we made centered around making sure our guests got a real taste of Block Island and would have a great time while doing so!”

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For the wedding ceremony, the couple kept things “short, sweet and simple,” and it took place on The Sullivan House’s lawn overlooking Great Salt Pond. What was the best part? “As soon as we were announced as ‘husband and wife,’ the boats in the marina erupted with horns! We were both beaming,” says Margot. The couple kept the lighthearted and fun atmosphere rolling throughout the night. “We left the wedding in the back of a vintage Land Rover…honking through town on the way to our after party,” recalls the bride. “We made sure the entire island knew we had just tied the knot!” While the wedding had a fun and festive attitude from start-to-finish, the couple was sure to keep in mind the real reason for the weekend. “I suggested we write our own vows,” says Taylor. “I wanted our family and closest friends to understand why they were there in the first place – to witness the love we have for one another and the commitment we were promising each other.” VENDORS photographer: Jacqui Cole Photography, jacquicole.com, wedding planning & design: Pure Luxe Bride, pureluxebride.com, ceremony/reception site: The Sullivan House, thesullivanhouse. com, florist: The Local Bouquet, thelocalbouquet.com, rentals: PEAK Events, peakeventservices.com, linen: La Tavola and Nuage Designs, nuagedesigns.com, calligraphy: J. Lily Design, jlilydesign.com stationery: Mulberry & Elm, mulberryandelm. com, gown designer: Alexandra Grecco, alexandragrecco. com, groom’s clothing designer: Suitsupply, suitsupply.com, bridesmaids’ clothing designer: Lulus, BHLDN & Katie May, lulus.com, bhldn.com & katiemay.com, bridesmaids’ jewelry: Mary MacGill Jewelry, marymacgill.com, men’s ties: Drake’s, drakes.com, groomsmen’s clothing designer: Suitsupply, suitsupply.com, custom linens: Courtland & Co., courtlandandco. com, bride’s veil designer: Paloma Blanca, palomablanca.com, veil embroidery: Sicko Stitching, sickostitching.com, bride’s gown topper: Jenny Yoo, jennyyoo.com, bride’s shoes: Tabitha Simmons, tabithasimmons.com, bride’s earrings: Stephanie Gottlieb, stephaniegottlieb.com & flower girl dress: Little Eglantine, littleeglantine.com

“Every planning decision we made centered around making sure our guests got a real taste of Block Island and would have a great time while doing so!”

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“As soon as we were announced as ‘husband and wife,’ the boats in the marina erupted with horns! We were both beaming.”

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REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

HAWAII

MAUI JING + ILYA

REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

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Look at your wedding as more than a celebration, but as a lifetime memory and reunion that will be reminisced about for years to come.

words by: Lauren Ertl photographer: Melia Lucida wedding planning & design: Moana Belle Events

osting a wedding away can be the perfect opportunity for couples to enjoy the presence of their closest

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friends and family as they commit to forever. Choosing a destination wedding doesn’t come without its challenges. Jing and Ilya gladly faced the hurdles in order to host an intimate wedding in Maui, Hawaii with those closest to them. “The decision inspired a sea of mixed feelings and excitement,” Ilya says. Some guests who are avid travelers were absolutely thrilled, while the remote location and costs of the trip presented insurmountable challenges for others. But nothing could beat saying “I do” in the verdant Hawaiian countryside. “For us, it is a state that offers unparalleled variety in just about everything,” the couple says. “There are different styles of islands to travel to, some are relaxing, some are better for adventure and thrillseekers, etc. And, it is not just the islands, but also the iconic culture and history.”

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When the couple discovered Olowalu Plantation House, they knew it would be the perfect venue to incorporate some of Hawaii’s best elements into their wedding. “I loved having the ocean view without getting any sand in my hair, the ancient trees which gave me a magical feeling, the mountains behind, the cute plantation house…it was just perfect,” Jing says. Although planning a wedding away wasn’t a piece of cake for Jing and Ilya, relying on their wonderful team of professional wedding planners offered peace of mind. With their help, the couple could focus on how to blend their Jewish and Chinese heritages with the Hawaiian culture. The Hawaiian sunset made for a breathtaking scene on the evening of the ceremony. “Jing met me at the

100 REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS

Chuppah, walked by both of her parents to the traditional, nostalgic melody of Mendelssohn’s march,” Ilya says. The magic of the day flowed into the night as Ilya serenaded Jing, playing a “A Whole New World” on the violin. After all the fun festivities of the reception, the couple ended the night with a special final dance: “мы желаем счастья вам”- a Russian classic, which was the final song at the groom’s parent’s wedding. When asked what their favorite part of the day was, the couple’s response brings tears to the eyes: “Everything! This is a day that we put so much heart into planning; almost every detail was customized and had a meaning behind it. It was full of culture, intimacy, and was gentle and romantic. And, it feels funny that we planned so long for that day, and when the day actually came, it went by faster than the blink of an eye.”

The couple encourages others in the planning process to remember to look at your wedding as more than a celebration, but as a lifetime memory and reunion that will be reminisced about for years to come. VENDORS photography: Melia Lucida, melialucida.com, wedding planning & design: Moana Belle Events, moanabelle.com, ceremony/reception site: Olowalu Plantation House, olowaluplantationhouse.com, florist: Mandy Grace Designs, mandygracedesigns.com, stationery: The Writing Desk, thewritingdeskhawaii.com, gown designer: ShiniUni, shiniuni.com, groom’s clothing designer: TOPZIO, topzio. com, tableware: Set Collections, setmaui.com, linen: La Tavola Linen, latavolalinen.com, rentals: Inspiration Events Hawaii, inspirationeventshawaii.com, makeup: Meili Autumn Beauty, meiliautumn.com, caterer: Celebrations Catering, celebrationsmaui.com, bar: Garnish Craft Cocktails, garnishcocktails.com, rentals: Signature Event Rentals, signaturemaui.com & Accel Rentals, accelrentals.com, ceremony music: Maui Harps, mauiharps.com, reception music: Clarity DJ, clarityentertainmentmaui.com & officiant: Reverend Joe Miles DESTINATIONIDO.COM

Although planning a wedding away wasn’t a piece of cake for Jing and Ilya, relying on their wonderful team of professional wedding planners offered peace of mind.

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TURKEY

CAPPADOCIA KATIE + CHARLES

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words by: Courtney Kellar photographer: Ken Tan Photo wedding planner: Turkey Weddings

hile Katie and Charles met “the old-fashioned way: online,” their destination wedding in Cappadocia, Turkey was anything but ordinary. The adventurous couple loves to travel and the region had long been at the top of their bucket list. “There is something alluringly symbolic about two families coming together in a country where continents intersect and starting our story where so much of human history has transpired,” says Katie. “The scenery of the region of Cappadocia defies description and was an easy choice after seeing just a few pictures.” The couple was joined by 30 intrigued and enthusiastic guests and say the key to achieving their dream destination wedding all came down to their planner. “Planning a destination wedding on another continent, in a place we had never been, through email communication only was far less daunting than it sounds, solely because of our amazing wedding planner, Turkey Weddings,” explains the bride.

“There is something alluringly symbolic about two families coming together in a country where continents intersect and starting our story where so much of human history has transpired.”

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“The scenery of the region of Cappadocia defies description and was an easy choice after seeing just a few pictures.”

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Having dreamt of a trip to Cappadocia for years, it’s no surprise the couple made the most of their wedding week. Ahead of the big day, Katie and Charles hiked, went on history tours and visited local wineries. The couple saved the best activity for last and spent the morning of their wedding day, “enjoying a magical sunrise hot air balloon ride over the fairy chimneys.” When it came to décor, the couple kept things “exotically rustic” and embraced their magical surroundings. The ceremony took place in a clearing between three ancient fairy chimney stone towers, while guests sipped Champagne sitting on benches over beautiful Turkish rugs. The reception took place in a traditional Turkish cave and everyone enjoyed a three-course dinner and dancing late into the night. The couple’s favorite moment? These traveling, motorcycle enthusiasts rode out of the ceremony on a motorcycle and sidecar to the surprise and delight of all their guests! VENDORS photographer: Ken Tan Photo, kentanphoto.com, wedding planner: Turkey Weddings, turkeyweddings.com, ceremony/ reception site: Turkey Weddings / Argos in Cappadocia, argosincappadocia.com, florist & stationery: Turkey Weddings, turkeyweddings.com, gown designer: BHLDN, bhldn.com, Groom’s Pants: Kenneth Cole, kennethcole.com, bridesmaids’ dresses: Altar’d State, altardstate.com, drone operator: John Akerman Ozguc, acquinoxmedia.com, videographer: Hasan Galip Temur & travel & logistics: Travel Atelier travelatelier.com SUMMER & FALL 2021

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CALIFORNIA

PACIFIC PALISADES CHANDLER + CHET

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words by: Courtney Kellar photographer: Katrina Jayne Photography wedding planning & design: Jane Alexandra Events

here’s something to be said for seeing something – or someone – you want and simply going for it! Chandler and Chet didn’t let the fact that they met on a group date (while with other people!) stand in the way of their instant chemistry. “I called my mom the night after our group date to tell her that I had just met my husband – even though we hadn’t even exchanged numbers yet!” reflects Chandler. The couple dated and fell in love in Los Angeles before moving to the Bay area, so there was never any doubt that a trip back to SoCal would be the setting for their dream wedding. Much like their feelings for each other, Chandler and Chet had an immediate connection with their venue, the Bel-Air Bay Club in Pacific Palisades. “The second we toured the club, Chet and I knew it was the place we would get married,” says the bride. “We didn’t even look at a single other venue – everything about the B.A.B.C. felt right for us… gorgeous views of the beach paired with that magical laid-back California vibe, without the mess of [actually] being on the beach.”

“It was a perfect sunny California day! You could see the ocean behind us and the ceremony arch was full of bright florals that helped add to the fun California vibe we were going for.”

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“Of course we ended the night with an In-N-Out Burger truck, so all our guests could truly experience all the best parts of California!”

In keeping with their relaxed California theme, the couple chose bright, happy colors for their décor and incorporated oranges into some of the details like stationery and place cards. On the day of their July 2019 wedding, the couple and 160 guests enjoyed a seamless and sunny event – largely thanks to the couple’s vendor team. “[The wedding] couldn’t have happened as seamlessly as it did without Jane Alexandra Events, Katrina Jayne Photography and the rest of the fabulous support team we had behind us…” says Chandler. “I truly cannot imagine getting married without them by my side.” The couple’s favorite moment of the day was sneaking into their reception ahead of their guests. “It took our breath away how gorgeous our reception hall was and it was awesome to see everything we had envisioned come to life,” says the bride. Chandler and Chet also took advantage of the time alone to do a practice run of their first dance. “It was so special to share that moment alone with Chet – our first dance as husband and wife without the pressure of everyone watching.”

VENDORS photographer: Katrina Jayne Photography, katrinajayne. com, wedding planning & design: Jane Alexandra Events, janealexandraevents.com, ceremony/reception site: Bel-Air Bay Club, belairbayclub.com, videography: Royal Films, royalfilms.net, florist: Unique Floral Designs, uniquefloraldesigns.com, stationery (excluding invitations) and signage: Kelly Patrice, kellypatrice.com, gown designer: Monique Lhuillier, moniquelhuillier.com, hair & makeup: Cheek to Cheek Artistry, bookcheektocheek.com, cake: The Butter End Cakery, thebutterend.com, lighting: The Stage Labs, stagelabs.com, dj: Vox DJs, voxdjs.com & ceremony & cocktail music: The Golden Coast All Stars, goldcoasteventsla.com SUMMER & FALL 2021

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HAWAII

MAUI KYM + ADAM

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words by: Kate Darnell photographer: Chris J. Evans Photography wedding planning & design: Erica Goldsmith with Couture Events

“We served his and hers signature drinks; Adam’s was called ‘Let’s Get Coconutty’ and Kym’s signature drink was a mai tai named ‘Mai Tai’d the Knot.’”

hen Adam overheard Kym at work, it almost foiled his plan of asking her out. “Adam heard me mention to a mutual friend that I would never date someone I worked with. Little did I know this conversation would delay our first date by more than a year!” recalls Kym. Luckily for her, a coworker intervened and set the wheels of fate in motion. “She told him she’d known he had been interested in me for a while. They must have had a compelling conversation, because a couple weeks later Adam gathered enough courage to (finally) ask me out on a date. We have been inseparable ever since!” A destination wedding was a natural decision for the couple, as Kym and Adam’s families both lived on opposite coasts. Add their shared love of travel, and far-flung nuptials were the only option. “The idea of combining a trip with our closest friends and family seemed like a no brainer,” says Kym. “We also wanted to tie our wedding to an experience for our guests, and offer everyone the opportunity to feel like they were on the best vacation by attending our wedding.” In August, 2019, ninety guests joined the bride and groom on the island of Maui for an unforgettable celebration. “Tradition, laughter and a ukulele player” were front and center for the lovebirds. Kym incorporated important customs from her African heritage on her father’s side. Kym’s eldest cousin flew to Maui from South Africa and, as part of the native custom, offered gifts to the bride’s parents. According to the couple, “This is seen as a way of thanking the bride’s family for bringing her up and symbolically represents the joining together of both families.” Kym’s parents also offered Adam’s parents gifts consisting of traditional Ndebele (Kym’s dad’s tribe) attire. A “creative black-tie” celebration immediately followed the meaningful nuptials on the lawn at the Four Seasons Maui. The couple described the reception as

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“vibrant, warm and intimate, with a stunning backdrop of the Hawaiian sunset and ocean, full of personal touches that represented us as a couple.” In hindsight, planning a destination wedding had a few challenges for the couple, but with the help of their wedding planner, Erica Goldsmith from Couture Events, they were able to navigate with ease. One of the biggest obstacles was their initial venue backed-out about six months before the wedding. “Thankfully our wonderful planner, now friend, Erica with Couture Events, was incredible and was able to save the day by scouting out the new possible venues, including the Four Seasons, which turned out to be our dream venue,” says the couple. “Having a local event planner was critical to destination wedding planning!” They also enjoyed a few scouting trips to ensure they got exactly the kind of event they were after (and a good excuse to visit their favorite island paradise). The couple has some sound advice for those of you who are planning your own wedding away: “Lots of opinions get thrown at you when planning a wedding. People always recommend what they love, but it’s not their day. Your guests will have the most fun when they see an event inspired by your interests and one that represents you as a couple.”

VENDORS photographer: Chris J. Evans Photography, chrisjevans.com, wedding planning & design: Erica Goldsmith with Couture Events, coutureeventsmaui.com, ceremony/reception site: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, fourseasons.com/maui, florist: Teresa Sena Designs, teresasena.com, invitations & save the dates: Danielle Johnson, daniellejohnson.co, invitation calligraphy: Elizabeth Schuller (family member), décor calligraphy: Miss B. Calligraphy, missbcalligraphy. com, gown designer: Sarah McCarthy with Sphere Collective, spherecollective.com.au, groom’s clothing designer: Generation Tux, generationtux.com, bridesmaids’ clothing designer: Flo Atelier by Milena Dimitrova, etsy.com/shop/ floatelier, veil: StylishBrideAccs, etsy.com/shop/stylishbrideaccs, officiant: Laki Kaahumanu, hawaiianroyaltyweddings.com, coconut favors: The Catered Coconut, thecateredcoconut. com, musician: Marvin Tevaga, marvintevagamusic.net, custom bar: Artisan Events, artisaneventsmaui.com, linens: La Tavola Linen, latavolalinen.com, rentals: Inspiration Events Hawaii, inspirationeventshawaii.com, bridal alterations: Marissa Gutierrez of Tailor Maid SF, stylist: Shelby Crawford of Maui Makeup Artistry, mauimakeupartistry.com, dance choreography: Emily Coles of Emily Coles Dance SF & bride’s shoes: United Nude

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“We wanted our guests to feel like they had entered an oasis, hearing the sounds of the ocean while witnessing a beautiful Hawaiian sunset.”

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SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AMY + NICHOLAS

“We knew early on that we would not be able to pull this off on our own and hired [our planner] Megan to be our eyes and ears on the ground. We could not have done it without Megan’s local relationships and expertise.”

words by: Lauren Ertl photographer: Anya Kernes Photography wedding planning & design: Louise & Third

here is little that compares to the comfort of home. That’s why, despite living in Chicago, Amy and Nicholas chose to do a destination wedding in the bride’s hometown of San Juan Capistrano, California. The setting also met the couple’s desire for an outdoor reception with a “garden-inspired” vibe, which would have been hard to pull off in the “Windy City” of Chicago. “Nicholas and I met through mutual friends when I was a senior in college at Notre Dame…we hit it off right away and started dating once I moved to Chicago post-graduation,” the bride says. The ceremony was to take place in Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano – the same parish Amy attended school at from kindergarten through the eighth grade. To celebrate, the couple held the reception at Amy’s family’s private estate. Both locations required sourcing a team of dedicated vendors to make the blank canvases come to life – an area of expertise they knew only a stellar, local planner could do. “We knew early on that we would not be able to pull this off on our own and hired [our planner] Megan to be our eyes and ears on the ground. We could not have pulled off a destination wedding at a ‘blank slate’ venue without Megan’s local relationships and expertise,” the couple says.

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The first “splash of paint” on the blank canvas was the couple’s decision to go with a warm, neutral color palette of taupe, nude, dusty rose and deeper burgundy accents. The estate itself resembled a French château, so Amy and Nicholas also aimed to keep with the old-world European country style already established. With major details in place, the couple could rely on their planner and vendors to take the reins. “We kicked off the evening with a cocktail hour where guests were served tray-passed champagne and hors d’oeuvres, as a jazz trio played in the background,” the bride says. Guests were then invited to the reception space, walking across fresh lavender. A formal, plated dinner was served with guests seated under twinkling string lights. A cozy lounge vignette set-up with pashminas beckoned guests to mingle in comfort. The last few hours of the night were spent on the dance floor, “which was packed to the brim thanks to our talented band,” the bride says. The evening was capped-off with a sparkler exit and the couple was whisked away in a family friend’s vintage car. Perhaps saying “I do” away from home doesn’t always require unfamiliar places to be a special, unique event.

VENDORS photographer: Anya Kernes Photography, anyakernesphotography.com, wedding planning & design: Louise & Third, louiseandthird.com, ceremony site: Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano, missionparish.org, florist: Mulberry & Moss, mulberryandmoss.com, stationery: Copper Willow Paper Studio, copperwillow.com, gown designer: Pronovias, pronovias.com, purchased at The White Dress, shoes: Jimmy Choo, us.jimmychoo.com, groom’s clothing designer: J.Crew, jcrew.com, bridesmaids’ clothing designer: Watters, watters.com, groomsmen’s clothing designer: The Black Tux, theblacktux.com, rentals: MTB Event Rentals and Archive Rentals, mtbeventrentals.com and archiverentals.com, tabletop rentals: Casa de Perrin, casadeperrin.com, linens: La Tavola Linen, latavolalinen.com, styling ceramics: Simple Things Ceramics, simplethingsceramics.com, styling surface: Locust Collection, locustcollection.com, catering: Colette’s Catering & Events, colettesevents.com, desserts: Grace and Honey Cakes, graceandhoneycakes.com, band: Rembrandt Band, rembrandtband.com, hair & makeup: Design Visage, designvisage.com & transportation: Best Valet and Best VIP, bestvalet.com and best-vip.com

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CALIFORNIA

PALM SPRINGS KAYLA + IFEANYI

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words by: Kate Darnell photographer: Valorie Darling wedding planning & design: Pure Lavish Events

ike so many other couples, Kayla and Ifeanyi found themselves faced with the realization and disappointment of postponing their 2020 wedding. With their original date set for May and over 200 guests invited, their sunny Huntington Beach, California wedding wouldn’t go on as planned. “We were feeling really defeated,” recalls Kayla. Their destination wedding plans were rescheduled for November 2020 at a totally different location and with fewer guests. “When we decided to resume planning, we moved our venue to the desert to experience the warm weather on our wedding day,” says the bride. With the help of Alexa Infranca from Pure Lavish Events, the couple reimagined their destination wedding design and location. Set in the foothills of Palm Springs at Colony 29, the couple saw their dreams realized. “Our special day turned out EVEN BETTER than we could have imagined. I had always dreamed of a Spanish villa-style wedding and Colony 29 delivered beyond my wildest dreams,” says Kayla. “The wedding was planned in a month and a half. It was quite the process, but Kayla and Ifeanyi were on top of everything,” recalls their wedding planner, Alexa. “Kayla and I spoke on the phone regarding design and we decided that with their style and elegance, we wanted to go classic with the color palette and decor.” says Alexa. The “memorable mini-vacation experience” the couple wanted for their 33 guests was easily accomplished. According to Kayla, “Our family members stayed in six different houses on Colony 29’s beautiful property and we stayed with our wedding party at Kempa Villa, a private estate with eight separate rooms.”

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“Although we were initially disappointed we had to postpone our wedding, our special day came together even better than we had planned and we wouldn’t have wanted to change a thing!”

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A rehearsal dinner at the couple’s villa allowed for guests to celebrate and experience their Mexican and Nigerian cultures through cuisine. The wedding day was a true celebration and Ifeanyi’s uncle opened with a traditional Nigerian ceremony welcoming the guests. “I arrived in a 1962 pearl white Rolls Royce where my father walked me down the aisle. And my 13 year-old son delivered the rings while our very best friends stood by our side in support,” recalls Kayla. “It was important to both Ifeanyi and I to speak our own vows,

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which turned out to be one of the best parts of our day.” Safety was paramount to the couple when it came to their celebration and they required Covid tests to ensure everyone could relax and enjoy the celebration without worry. Kayla had some additional helpful advice for other couples planning right now: hire an experienced wedding planner. “Alexa was so fantastic at guiding us every step of the way. She had amazing connections and recommendations that made checking items off our to-do list extremely easy!”

VENDORS photographer: Valorie Darling, valoriedarlingphotography. com, wedding planning & design: Pure Lavish Events, eventsbypurelavish.com, venue: Colony 29, colony29.com, video: Authentic Story Tellers, theauthenticstorytellers.com, florals: Florals by Jenny, floralsbyjenny.com, catering: Harvest Kitchen, harvestkitchen.com, rentals: Signature Party Rentals, signatureparty.com, dj: DJ Blast, ogblast.com, string quartet: Organic String Quartet, organicstringquartet.com, cake: The Butter Cake Studio, thebuttercakestudio.com, vintage car: Classic Limos, classiclimos.com, hair: Babe Hair By B, Bethany Gonzales hairbyb.com, makeup: Kayla (Bride), dress & veil: Idina Bridal, idinabride.com, designer: Pronovias, groom’s tux: Armani, wedding party’s clothing designer: Brideside & stationery: Shine Wedding Invitations, shineweddinginvitations.com

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LAST THOUGHTS

“The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams.” –OPRAH WINFREY PHOTO BY KEN TAN PHOTO

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