March / April 2019

FASHION

BEAUTY

INSPIRATION

473

MARCH / APRIL 2019

FRESH

BRIDAL TIPS FOR SPRING

DESTINATIONS

HONEYMOONS

&

Classic COOL !

GORGEOUS GOWNS TO

WOW!

SUIT YOUR STYLE

BODY&

BEAUTY

Get That GLOW

Real

Wedding SPECIAL

INSPIRATION

+

Ideas £5.50 www.dwha.co.uk

Escape to The Maldives, Cyprus, Canary Islands & more!

Midtown Loft �Terrace Make your special d ay one to remember at New YorkCity's most premier location!

The beautifully landscaped Midtown Terrace provides a full view ofManhattan's skyline for ceremonies and cocktails. After the ceremony, you and your guests can enjoy a stylish reception in our elegantMidtown Loft.We are proud to announce our new retractable rooftop on theTerrace that can be utilized for outdoor events year round.It will provide full enclosure for your wedding.

WWW .MIDTOW N LOFT .COM �67Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016 Oll (�1�) 537- Oll7 www.midtownloft.com sales@midtownloft.net

Editor-in-Chief’s Letter Dear brides and grooms, First of all, congratulations on your upcoming marriage! As we are all aware, spring is a truly magical season that every year, takes the wedding world by storm. From intimate ceremonies in private gardens to extravagant celebrations in beautiful tropical resorts, we’re here to share with you the best inspiration and tips for your special day.

Be inspired by our collection of all natural skincare and beauty favourites, to get that beautiful bridal glow in time for your special day. Breathe in the fresh pastels and crisp clean whites of designer bridal dresses, many handcrafted and sustainably produced with tiny swoon-worthy details.

Delight in the love stories of real brides, who enchanted the forests of California, the shores of Santorini and the hills of Montana with their bespoke wedding.

As for your honeymoon, we’ve selected some incredible gems for you to explore! If you’re looking for a paradise escape, head to the tropical archipelago of the Maldives, where you can dive deep into the cyan waters to discover coral reefs, awe-inspiring caves and schools of tropical fish. On the other end of the spectrum, we’ll take a look at the tiny, yet renowned skiing village of Aspen, Colorado where the best of culture, food and winter sports come together for a top-notch holiday experience. In addition, we hope you will enjoy our take on scenic Cyprus, bustling Toronto and the dazzling Canary Islands.

Finally, we’ve equipped this issue with the names and contacts you need to choose your perfect wedding photographer. We know how difficult it is to find someone who both has the aesthetic and the personality to capture your most important moments, which is why we’ve carefully selected only the best of the best from around the world. In this issue, you’ll also find lots of our favourite products and trends of the moment. We hope you’ll love this issue as much as we loved creating it. For more articles, tips and tricks, please visit our website at www.dwha.co.uk.

All of this and more awaits you, so sit back and enjoy the adventure!

ON THE COVER FASHION

BEAUTY

INSPIRATION

473

MARCH / APRIL 2019

FRESH

BRIDAL TIPS FOR SPRING

DESTINATIONS

Yours Truly,

HONEYMOONS

Begona

&

Classic COOL !

GORGEOUS GOWNS TO

WOW!

SUIT YOUR STYLE

BODY&

BEAUTY

Get That GLOW

Begona Rubio Editor-in-Chief

Real

Wedding SPECIAL

INSPIRATION

+

Ideas £5.50 www.dwha.co.uk

Escape to The Maldives, Cyprus, Canary Islands & more!

graceloveslace.com

WWW.DWHA.CO.UK

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CONTENTS INSPIRED

14 17 18

21 25

Editor’s Picks: Spring fashion & beauty essentials handpicked by our Editor Delicious Detox: Treat yourself to tasty detoxes at our favourite London juice bars Interview: Charles Hudson discusse eco friendly confetti An interview with the founder of the UK’s preeminent eco-friendly confetti company Peach Elegance: A dainty & artistic countryside styled shoot set in a grand Elizabethan Manor House Magical Menagerie: Delight in a whimsical & pastel-hued circus themed styled shoot

REAL LIFE WEDDINGS

33 37 41

Grecian Serenity: Follow your heart to this stunning seaside wedding on the enchanting shores of Santorini Woodland Wanderlust: Soak up the sun in a California forest in this bucolic dream wedding Bohemian Bliss: A charmingly rustic wedding celebration blessed with laughter & love in Montana

BEAUTY

48

49 50 51

Natural Skincare: A curated selection of wholesome skincare products for a luminous visage Natural Makeup: Treat your skin, eyes & lips to these fresh products Spa Day Bliss: Discover transformative treatments & soothing massages at the Bannatyne Spa Aisle Ready: Pamper yourself before the big day at these luxe London beauty studios

FASHION

53

56 58 61 63 65 66

Las Plamas de Gran Canaria, Ciudad Alta, High City 10

DWHA || MARCH / APRIL

Berta Bridal: A modern collection inspired by vintage materials & grand architecture Demetrios Seaside & City Collection: Ethereal beauty shines through these elegant goddess dresses Swim in Style: Get you ready for a luxurious holiday in the sand Ethical Bridal Wear: Feel great about what you wear with these remarkable eco-conscious bridal collections Kindred Spirit Collection by Wear Your Love: Dreamy organic fabrics with incredibly sophisticated sylphlike designs Galia Lahav: Grace the aisle with angelic beauty in the contemporary gowns & jumpsuits Sanyukta Shrestha: Embrace a new era of sustainable wear with these breathtaking designs

DESTINATIONS

70 74

82 89 90 98 106 114 117

Ireland: Yoga Shala on the breathtaking cliffs of Ireland The Maldives: Immerse yourself in the incredible oasis of crystal waters & sandy beaches at this top honeymoon location Cyprus: Uncover the ancient ruins & historical prestige of this magical island set in the Mediterranean Sea Interview: Dr Maria Socratous explains the exceptional treasures of Cyprus Spain: Be enchanted by the tropical vegetation & vibrant towns of the stunning Canary Islands USA: Ski the snowy Rockies & fall in love with this small, culturally rich village Canada: Explore the colourful ambiance of Toronto set on the shores of Lake Ontario Croatia: Discover the hidden gems of this exquisite island of Hvar Morocco: Embark on a journey where you will stumble on a show of vibrant colours and remarkable ancient cities

DWHA AWARDS

123

DWHA Awards: The winners for the ‘Best of the Best’ in the wedding & honeymoon industry

PLANNING

134 135 137

140 141 152

Let’s Get Married in Italy: Find the perfect planner to bring your Italian fantasy wedding to life Sanda Pandza: A bespoke planner who fulfils dreams with impeccable elegance Tuscan Cakes: Custom made cakes by artist Melanie Secciani Trending Online: A roundup of what we are loving on our new website Don’t Forget Your Wedding Planner: A grand selection of dedicated & creative wedding planners Lens of Love: Our list of some of the best wedding photographers worldwide

BEST OF BRITISH

165

Best of British: Majestic estate & castle venues around the UK that melt our hearts

Muse by Berta Bridal WWW.DWHA.CO.UK

11

Editor-in-Chief Begona Rubio Fashion & Beauty Editor Vanessa Donkoh

Features Editor Kristie Landing

Creative Director Jack Taylor

We Love!

KINDRED SPIRITS COLLECTION

Designer Ersin Zorlu

Page 62

photography by Ftacnik, ftacnik.com

Contributors SANDA PANDZA

Design Assistant Hingho Tsang

Digital Manager & Special Features Eleonora Tucci

Founder of Sanda Pandza Events

FAVOURITE WEDDING LOCATION “Picture your wedding in an Italian palace, a castle full of history, the Tuscan hills, a sparkling sandy beach or an exclusive private mountain chalet...SP Events dares you to dream in Italy.”

Commercial Director Anthony Baines

Marketing Director Brian Horrocks

DR. MARIA SOCRATOUS

Tourist Officer at the Deputy Ministry of Tourism in Cyprus

FAVOURITE WEDDING LOCATION “People who choose Cyprus as a wedding or honeymoon destination prefer the Paphos or Famagusta areas. My experience tells me that this is due to the clean, beautiful beaches and other activities such as winery tours, hiking routes, and archaeological sites that these areas have to offer.”

CHARLES HUDSON

Founder of The Real Flower Petal Confetti Co.

MOST POPULAR PETAL FOR WEDDINGS “I chose to grow delphinium petals because they are small, light and very floaty – they hang in the air for a really magical confetti moment. They are still our most popular petals! We mix together five colours of delphinium petals and we call it “Rainbow Mix.”

12

Business Development Director - Italy Maria F. De Tommaso

Special Projects Manager Sarah Dorsett

Project Director Paul James

Chairman Parry Cockwell www.dwha.co.uk

This publication may not be re-produced or transmitted in any form or in part without written permission of the publisher. ISSN 2056-8533. Content is available for syndication please contact the publisher for more details. While every effort has been made to ensure that the information is correct, neither the author nor publisher can be held responsible for inadvertent inaccuracies or omissions. DWHA is published by DWHA Limited registered office 20-22 Wenlock Road, London, NI 7GU

DWHA || MARCH / APRIL

INSPIRED Establish a fresh perspective as you embrace the colours, style and themes of spring

Magical MENAGERIE ...page 25 DON’T MISS...

An all-natural flower petal company revolutionizing the wedding confetti tradition

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25

Editor’s

Peach

Magical

Picks

Elegance

Menagerie

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Editor’s Picks

Style essentials and ones to watch Kiss Love You Rose Gold Necklace, Annie Haak, £48

Floral Dip Hem Dress, Oasis, £52 Zola Pink Marble Sunglasses, Pala Eyewear, £85

Mosaic Coral Cotton Scarf, Rex London, £12.95

Dylan Blouse in Sage, Dagny, £175

Mixmesh Spinner, Samsonite, £269.99

Stunning city views

Embroidered ‘I Do’ Sandals, Jack Rogers, £269.99

THE MARYLEBONE 47 Welbeck Street, London, W1G 8DN

Contemporary design meets café society style rooms in The Marylebone, an exquisite luxury hotel. Enjoy an intimate wedding reception or a honeymoon escape at this stunning repose in the scenic heart of London.

DOYLECOLLECTION.COM/MARYLEBONE

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DWHA || MARCH / APRIL

INSPIRED

V-Lock Extra White Unicorn Sneakers, Veja, £114.89 Fitbit Alta, John Lewis & Partners, £59.99

Medium Support Sports Bra, MYZONE, £38.15

bold + blue-tiful

Green Yoga Mat, Primark, £7

Citron Fig Eau de Parfum, Space.NK, £82

ESSENTIALS for her Brush off all the cobwebs of winter with this wellness + fitness gear, designed to help you look and feel your best as you move into the warmer months!

Sugar Scrub, Rituals of Sakura, £19.50

Coral Tie Strap Bodysuit, Glamourous, £18

Green Gym Ball, Flying Tiger, £10

Kure Bazaar, Bikini&Co Polish, £22 Souluxe Panel Leggings, Matalan, £14 Personalised Notebook, Getting Personal, £6.99

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The Air Oxford Shirt, Everlane, £44.79

Apple Watch Series 4, Apple, £469 Grey Beanie, F&F, £5

Folk Sherpa in Sand, FatFace, £90

ESSENTIALS for him Bluetooth Speaker, Kreafunk, £99

Light Khaki Chinos, Burton, £20

For the down-to-earth, adventurous types, we’d suggest packing some of these comfortable, transitional pieces as well as useful gadgets to make the most of your travels this spring

Eco Marine Hand Balm, Haeckels, £18

Refresh Bath & Shower Oil, Natural Spa Factory, £16.45 Munich LG Chilli, Matt & Nat £108.50

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DWHA || MARCH / APRIL

Khaki Sunglasess, River Island, £18

Onestep 2 Instant Camera, Polaroid, £119.99

Delicious Detox

INSPIRED

Refresh your body & mind before the big day with these simple, tasty fruit & veggie blends from three juice bars in London

CRUSSH

TRY THEIR: ‘VEGGIE GREENS’ + ‘BEAUTIFUL BEETS’ With minimal waste and slow food in mind, the incredible team at Crussh is inspiring people everywhere to juice it up! Their extraordinary raw pressed juices make for a superb cleanse to help you integrate all the healthy supplements you may be missing. We’re big fans of the following veggie juices, which will refresh your body before the big day.

Veggie Greens: Full of green leafy veggies like spinach, kale and celery, this delicious depurative drink is full of nutrients to power you up and leave you feeling clean before your wedding. Plus, this luscious green booster is low on calories, fat and sugars, so integrating this into your diet can lead to weight loss and mental clarity.

Beautiful Beets: When you are busy with the hectic wedding planning months, this energizing juice will be your best friend! An invigorating blend of beetroot, carrot, apple and lemon, this is a go-to for keeping up stamina. This fresh juice is also rich in nitrates, which improves your blood flow and keeps you in tip-top shape. crusshjuicebars

@CrusshJuiceBars

@CrusshFitFood&JuiceBars

crussh.com

CPRESS

TRY THEIR: ’ ‘DETOX WATER’ + ‘FARMERS MARKET’ For future brides, we advise following a CPRESS 100% organic vegetable cleanse to eliminate your toxins without giving your digestive system a hard time. Stick to a routine for a few days or longer and be prepared to reap the body and mind benefits! Most of all, enjoy the road to a tasty and life-changing detox. Offered by the cosy and organic café CPRESS, the ‘Original Cleanse’ is a burst of fresh ingredients and the perfect combination of nutrients for your daily diet. These two drinks, part of the ‘Original Cleanse’ will get you starting and ending your day!

8:00am Detox Water: Start your day with a punch! A perfect wake up call, rich of alkaline and a citrusy blast to get you started on your best foot. This drink has the purpose to remind you from early morning how important hydrating is.

7:00pm Farmers Market: End your tiring day with a full green dose. A cold pressed juice, which preserves the vitamins and minerals you need to keep your body healthy and glowing.

A mix of celery, kale, parsley and a touch of ginger to add the nutrition without having to buy a tone of veggies. A perfect way to end the day with a light digestion all thanks to the heavenly properties of celery. cpressjuice

@cpressjuice

@cpressjuice

cpressjuice.com

JUICEBABY

TRY THEIR: ‘MEAN GREEN’ + ‘DR. CAROTENE’ The philosophy behind Juicebaby is all about simple changes which make a big difference.

Forget processed and unnatural foods, their selection of products prepared with sustainable ingredients leave your body and mind buzzing! Recharge your body with a deep cleanse full of pressed fruits and veggies, like their signature ‘Body Good,’ which includes the following juices: Mean Green: A perfect blend of green ingredients like parsley and cucumber are made sweeter with a squeeze of lime. This antioxidant and vitamin rich juice is the ideal cleanser to keep your body looking and feeling great. Raw ingredients are the key, to preserve vitamins, minerals and all the freshness.

Dr. Carotene: A king of juices, ‘Dr. Carotene’ is rich in Vitamin A, the key to nourish and rejuvenate your skin. Refresh and boost your immune system with this colourful juice that is bursting with Vitamin C. A perfect blend for a bride who is looking for a healthy mix and an incredible yummy juice. juicebabyuk

juicebabyuk

juicebabyuk

juicebaby.co.uk

W W W.D W H A .C O.U K 17

The Real Flower Petal Confetti Company Kristie Landing chats with Charles Hudson about his petal passion

I

n our growing efforts to seek out all-natural, sustainable options for your wedding without compromising on aesthetics or experience, we discovered a bloomingly beautiful company located at Wyke Manor Estate in the heart of Worcestershire. The Real Flower Petal Confetti Company plant, grow, process and package their own all natural flower petals for weddings around the world so that you can shower the happy couple in colour as they leave their ceremony without harming the environment.

We asked founder and owner, Charles Hudson about his budding business and why he was inspired to create this sustainable solution.

How did the idea for natural flower petal confetti begin?

I had the original idea back in the 1990s. We live opposite the village church, and I walked past one morning and noticed lots of wet, dirty, messy paper confetti on the roadside; debris from a wedding the day before. Obviously the vicar wouldn’t let the confetti be thrown inside the churchyard and it was a shame that it all ended up clogging the streets. When I got back home, I saw that there were some flower petals on the table that had fallen from a bouquet of flowers, and I thought – “why not make confetti out of flower petals?” They would biodegrade as naturally as blossom, and no one could object to that. So, I started to experiment with different flowers and it all grew from there.

What is your most popular petal for weddings?

I chose to grow delphinium petals because they are small, light and very floaty – they hang in the air for a really magical confetti moment. They are still our most popular petals! We mix together five colours of delphinium petals and we call it “Rainbow Mix.” It’s bright and cheerful and by far our most popular blend. It works with any color scheme and seems to appeal to everyone.

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DWHA || MARCH / APRIL

What is the process of drying your flowers?

We try to keep the drying process a bit of a trade secret – but it is very simple and involves just sunshine and fresh air! We pick the best petals from the flowers by hand and dry them naturally, so the key is a nice warm, dry summer. When the moisture is removed, the petals hold their natural colour and will store for years.

INSPIRED

What seasons are you open? Can you buy confetti year round?

We now open our flower field to the public for 10 days at the end of June/early July – it is such a beautiful and unusual place, we love to share it with as many people as possible. Seeing their faces as they turn a corner into the farm is fantastic – it brings such joy! Because the petals are dried, they are available to buy all year round on our website. This is their main advantage over fresh petals – they don’t wilt, and they are not tied to the seasons.

You held the Guinness World Record for the Largest Carpet of Flowers which was a Union Jack (2004).

What made you decide to create this?

That year we wanted to run a charity fundraiser, and a Union Jack flower flag was just an idea w – we thought it would capture people’s imaginations! Once the word got out the world record was mentioned, and we were able to verify it with Guinness. It stood for a number of years, and it’s something fun to look back on. We recreated the flag for our 20th anniversary in 2017, and it was just as popular with the public!

Your petals have travelled to other countries, been in movies and attended the weddings of celebrities and royalty like Prince Charles and Camilla. What do you attribute your success in this industry to?

I think we have succeeded because of the wonderful simplicity of the idea of real flower petal confetti. The confetti moment marks the start of the wedding day celebrations, after the formal ceremony, and it’s a wonderful experience - lots of fun and a very special moment for both the couple and their wedding guests.

Everyone can get involved. Throwing flower petals is just a lovely idea – they are so pretty and natural and they biodegrade, so there is no waste. Who doesn’t want to start their married life under a flurry of petals?

In the early days we worked very hard to sell the idea of 100% natural, biodegradable confetti, as much as the product itself, and I think the business has endured because we have kept to my original ideas and values. We focus on mixing a bespoke product – something special to every customer, and we have a small team who are available to help and guide couples to create exactly what they want.

Do you think there is a trend towards more ecoconscious choices in the wedding industry?

Definitely – reducing waste, single use items, and sustainability are all big issues in the wedding industry now. These are the very reasons that I started farming flowers to become wedding confetti, so they are close to my heart. Confetti is the ultimate single use item, but I can tell you the precise journey your delphinium petals have been on, and that they will simply biodegrade away to nothing. It’s lovely to see that more people are thinking about what they buy, where it comes from and where it will go after it has been used. confettidirect.co.uk

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INSPIRED

Peach

Elegance A special shoot inspired by dramatic views and interiors of Elizabethan Manor House, Talhenbont Hall Photography by Camilla Arnhold

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COUNTRYSIDE

Chic

ELEGANT stationery was printed on white vellum for the suite. The seating plan onto a canvas banner looked amazing blowing in the trees

Peach was my starting point after falling in LOVE with some carnations and matching tapered candles. Styling on the table includes paint-splattered plates, mirrored in the artistic cake DÉCOR. Together with dyed muslin made from avocado skins created the same shade, which worked so well on the table and with the cake 22

DWHA || MARCH / APRIL

INSPIRED

Lots of Gypsophelia was worked into the hair to create a resplendent CROWN

SEASONAL

Tones

THE DREAM TEAM

Dark wood of the ANTIQUE dining room and contrasted with white marble.

Bright orange roses, linear foliage and textured pampas grass brought the look together

Creative Direction / Planning & Styling The Vintage House That Could @thevintagehousethatcould Photographer Camilla Arnhold @camillaarnholdphotography Venue Talhenbont Hall @talhenbont Gowns Catherine Deane @catherine_deane Caroline Castigliano @carolinecastigliano & Theia @theiacouture via Rachel Ash Brides @rachelashbrides Flowers @thevintagehousethatcould Hair Moncrieffe Hair @moncrieffe_hair Make up Sarah Burr @sarahjaneburr Cake Hayleys Piped Dreams @hayleyspipeddreams Stationery Cassie @ivyinkspaperco Shoes Benjamin Adams @benjaminadamsln Hair Accessory Rock n Rose @rocknrosegirls Model Olivia Sutton Plates H&M Home

Original features juxta-posed with ornate details, modern textures, romantic gowns and peacocks!

TRADITIONAL

Charm Camilla Arnhold captured the essence of the brooding landscape.

There is real romanticism at Talhenbont that transports you to another time WWW.DWHA.CO.UK

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THE PERFECT BACKDROP TO YOUR BIG DAY Dreaming about an iconic setting for your special day? We can make your dreams come true.

Whether it’s the the Victorian splendour, the enviable central London location or our signature service. Experience the difference at Amba Hotel Charing Cross.

amba-hotel.com

INSPIRED

Magical

Menagerie A circus theme including a whole host of colourful characters tickles our fancy in this whimsical shoot Photography by Roberta Facchini

WWW.DWHA.CO.UK

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ALTERNATIVE

Style

Ornate masks, golden birdcages and FLORAL bouquets are some of our favourite features

SHOWSTOPPING

Glamour 26

DWHA || MARCH / APRIL

An organic, lushgreen background worked perfectly along with the CIRCUS costumes and props

INSPIRED

COTTON CANDY

Colours THE DREAM TEAM

Personal touches like ANTIQUE furniture offered a retro and whimsical feel to the setting

Photography Roberta Facchini Photography, www.robertafacchini.com Style & Coordination Charlotte Ricard from La Fête, www.la-fete.com Videography Roberta Facchini Photography, www.robertafacchini.com Location Red Leaf Farm, Surrey Stationery & Calligraphy De Winton Paper Co., www.dewintonpaperco.com Female Model Lili Pennington Male Model Owain Pennington Floral Design Ricky Paul Flowers www.rickypaulflowers.co.uk Hair & Makeup Michelle Lacey of Bumblebee Bridal www.bumblebeebridal.co.uk Cake & Desserts Enchanting Cake Co. www.theenchantingcakecompany.co.uk Taxidermy Animatronic Animals www.animatronicanimals.com Floral Chairs Couture Chairs www.couturechairs.com Tableware Classic Crockery www.classiccrockery.co.uk Furniture Hire Vintage Style Hire www.vintagestylehire.co.uk Furniture Hire The White Chair Company www.thewhitechaircompany.co.uk Photobooth Boho Booth www.thebohobooth.co.uk Bridesmaid’s Outfits Little Bevan www.littlebevan.co.uk Bridal Couture Ruth Milliam Couture www.ruthmilliam.com Groom Suits Alexandra Wood Bespoke www.alexandrawoodbespoke.co.uk Floral Dog Collars Cupid Collars www.cupidcollars.com Lollipops and Donutpops The Little Lollipop Shop www.thelittlelollipopshop.co.uk Balloons Bubblegum Balloons

The colour palette was all about different shades of PINK, from cotton candy to bright fuchsia. Added touches of cream, green and electric blue were brought to life through different TEXTURES such as velvet, wood, ceramics, etc. This gave the touch and feel of reminiscent old school circus shows

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REAL LIFE WEDDINGS From the woodsy wilderness of California to the sparkling shores of Santorini, these romantic real love stories come to life around the world

Grecian SERENITY ...page 33 DID YOU KNOW? According to Greek culture, it is a good practice to tuck a sugar cube into your glove on your wedding day to sweeten your union

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37

Santorini

California Montana

41

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Celebrate your honeymoon in style in the most luxurious rooftop suites in town.

47 Welbeck Street, London, W1G 8DN, UK T +44 20 7486 6600 E marylebone@doylecollection.com W doylecollection.com/marylebone /TheMaryleboneHotel

@HotelMarylebone

@HotelMarylebone

Grecian Serenity

INSPIRED

Santorini, Greece PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNA ROUSSOS PHOTOGRAPHY

WWW.DWHA.CO.UK

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Jessica’s Top Tip At the end of the day, your wedding is about you and your significant other and what you both envision - sometimes it’s better not to ask for too many other opinions

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INSPIRED

THE COUPLE Jessica & Timothy Jessica and Timothy tied the knot overlooking the breathtaking Mediterranean views of Santorini

W

e always wanted to have a smaller, intimate wedding that felt more like a vacation with our closest friends and family. We chose Santorini for its stunning views, laid back atmosphere, and relative logistical ease. We knew that Santorini has a robust wedding industry and network of vendors, which gave us peace of mind when planning from so far away.

Finding our wedding and reception venues required a lot of online research! We scoured online blogs for weddings in Santorini and found ones that were similar to our style and the aesthetic we were looking for. Most important to us was finding the best photographer to capture our priceless memories and a top-notch wedding planner to execute our vision. Other than that, we tried to make sure there was value where we were spending our money.

I found my dream dress at Gabriella NY Bridal Salon in NYC. It was a Lela Rose and I was most drawn to the clean lines of the silhouette and romance in the lace bodice and touch of tulle. It was the dress that felt the most true to my everyday personality and style. For my hair and makeup I created Pinterest boards for inspiration. But ultimately, I trusted my fantastic makeup artist Renia Bledaki and hair artist Bella Damigou to take the inspiration and give it their own flair!

My wedding planner, Vana from White Ribbon Boutique Events, had full creative reign. Based on our conversations, she knew we were looking for something that was elegant, minimalist, yet still warm and she came up with the beautiful palette of soft pinks, delicate creams, earthy greys and greens, with a touch of gold. With so much natural beauty surrounding us, we took a minimalist approach to the dĂŠcor in order to fully appreciate the breathtaking caldera views. Dinner took place on a balcony built on the edge of the caldera, with two long wooden familystyle tables set in earthy tones and romantic pinks. A gorgeous Santorini sunset served as the perfect backdrop.

One of the most challenging tasks we were confronted with was booking accommodation for our guests, as we were catering to a broad variety of tastes and budgets. We ended up booking most of the rooms at a small boutique hotel, Pantheon Villas, which was down the path from our reception venue. We booked our block of rooms at Pantheon approximately 9 months in advance; we would recommend trying to book hotels as early as possible!

THE DREAM TEAM Photography Anna Roussos, annaroussos.com Event Planning White Ribbon Events, whiteribbon.gr Wedding Dress Lela Rose, lelarose.com Bridal Shoes Jimmy Cho, row.jimmychoo.com Hair Stylist Bella Santorini Make-Up Artist Renia Santorini Floral Design Red Box Days Wedding Cake Pavlov’s Lab, pavlovslab.gr Invitations Brown Fox Calligraphy

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Woodland Wanderlust

INSPIRED

Laguna Beach, California PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANINE LICARE PHOTOGRAPHY

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Mika’s Top Tip I would also advise brides-to-be to avoid seeking perfection. Find your interpretation of perfect, and enjoy the hell out of it!

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INSPIRED

THE COUPLE Mika & Rafai Childhood sweethearts Mika and Rafai celebrated their love in the glorious sunshine state of California

W

e grew up in Tokyo, began dating in LA and even lived in China together for a bit - so deciding on where to have our wedding was a little complicated! We ultimately picked Laguna Beach as our wedding destination because it provided a beautiful, laid-back backdrop to celebrate where we really started as a couple. Luckily my dad had previously held work events at the Ranch at Laguna Beach, so we were familiar with it. We also knew we wanted to keep everything in one place as much as possible to avoid guests having to shuttle from one spot to the next!

We budgeted early on, went over that pretty quickly, and then re-budgeted! We realized what guests care about most at weddings are the people, food, alcohol and music! Beyond that, we got creative, for example, we used country flag-toothpicks as meal indicators, and skipped a photo booth and went with a Polaroid camera instead! We also included our baby photos and a seating chart with table names according to countries we’ve lived in or visited together.

My dress was second-hand, I found it online! I’ve never been one of those girls who has dreamt about their wedding dress since the day they were born. In fact, I ended up changing into a $40 Lulu’s jumpsuit which made dancing with my husband, family and friends even more delightful. We wanted a neutral colour palette to really bring out the natural, understated beauty of the venue. We did our ceremony in the treetops with a canyon background, so decided on wildflowers for the aisle, flower crowns for the bridesmaids and pine green bowties for the groomsmen. My shoes matched the bridesmaid’s dresses and we chose pops of colour, like the red sake barrel and red cake to speak to our Asian heritage. To keep with the natural theme, I went with the most natural make-up artist I could find - Ting who was wonderful!

We found it most challenging to stay focused and not let the more minor decisions distract from what mattered most to us. At some point (likely over a glass of red wine!), Rafai made a sober point that our wedding day would be the only time in our lives that we would have this group of people together in one place. Accepting that helped me to enjoy the process and stay focused on making the day as memorable and fun-filled as possible!

THE DREAM TEAM Photography Janine Licare Photography Planning Kristi at Details Details Floral Design The Loved Co. Hair and Makeup Ting Makeup & Hair Rentals Archive Rentals Venue The Ranch at Laguna Beach Dress Les Habitudes Video Shimazu Video Cake Artelice Patisserie Music Vox DJs Engagement Ring Nadine Ghosn Brides Shoes Soludos Groom’s Attire Burberry Grooms Shoes Del Toro Officiant Courtney Parkyn

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Bohemian Bliss

INSPIRED

Finley Point, Montana PLANNING BY BE OUR GUEST WEDDINGS AND EVENTS

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Jolin’s Top Tip Overall I would say just try to not lose focus on what’s really important. The day should be happy and fun and special! You are marrying your love!

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INSPIRED

THE COUPLE Jolimn & Bill Jolin and Bill said ‘I do’ in the beautiful rustic meadows of Montana

W

e love Montana and especially the Flathead Lake area.

We recently built a beautiful vacation home there and we wanted to share the beauty and what we love about the area with our family and friends. We really wanted a casual and fun week and we got exactly that!

We originally wanted to have the wedding at our home but as the guest list grew, we realized we needed a bigger venue. The Barn at Finley Point was the perfect option and the owners Lucy and Denny McCrumb were wonderful people to work with.

The backdrop was so beautiful and there were multiple spots to have the ceremony. The Barn was amazing for the reception.

There were gorgeous chandeliers and lots of rustic décor that made it easy to decorate. The venue did not need much decorating, as we wanted to keep to the theme of a rustic and romantic wedding. We added flowers and a few minor details. It was a summer wedding so I wanted a light and romantic colour palette and I think blush pink is so romantic!

When it came to choosing my dress I was not terribly picky and wanted something simple but glamorous, with a little bit of bling. I ordered my dress online at Lulus.com and it was a perfect fit and exactly what I wanted. Again, keeping with the simple but romantic look, I wanted natural but glowing makeup and soft, pretty hair.

Living in California and planning a wedding in Montana was a little challenging. But hiring Joyce Barbour from Be Our Guest Wedding & Events was a godsend! Joyce and Megan really helped relieve a lot of the stress! We were not really trying to remain within a certain budget, but with that said, we were pleasantly surprised with how affordable everything was. All of our vendors were very fair and reasonable. A lot of our guests stayed in the area. We reserved 40 rooms at 2 hotels in Polson; The Red Lion Inn & Suites Ridgewater and The Kwataqnuk Resort & Casino. Both places were very easy to work with. I was able to get weekly updates from both places with just an email.

Overall I would say just try to not lose focus on what’s really important. The day should be happy and fun and special! You are marrying your love! It’s ok if every little detail is not perfect, because after it’s all said and done, those things are not going to matter and that’s not what you’re going to remember.

THE DREAM TEAM Wedding Ceremony And Reception Venue The Barn at Finley Point (barnatfinleypoint.com) Wedding Coordinator Joyce Barbour, Be Our Guest Wedding and Event Planner (barbourweddings.com) Photographer Matt Wetzler Thewmatt Photography (photography.thewmatt.com) Catering Finley Point Grill (finleypointgrill.com) Bride’s Dress Lulus.com Flowers Alpine Landscape and Design Hair Tiffany Gordon Makeup Shauna Johnson, (abanaskin.com) Cake Scottage Cakery (scottagecakery.com) Rentals The Barn Door Event Rentals

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BEAUTY What you put on your skin is as important as what you eat, so why choose anything but all natural? We’ve selected our favourite brands to get you glowing for your big day

Natural SKINCARE ...page 48 DID YOU KNOW? Natural oils like jojoba, extra virgin coconut and almond are simple, inexpensive solutions to nourish your skin

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NATURAL

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Vanilla Rose Bath Salt Blend, Made

By Coopers Apothecary, £14 Jasmine Green Tea Balancing Toner, Herbivore, £30.29 Blue Clay Cleansing Soap Bar, Herbivore, £9.32 Mega Greens Galaxy Pack Mask, Glossier, £18 Vitamin Nectar Vibrancy Boosting Face Mask, Fresh, £52 Sugar Lip Polish, Fresh, £19.50 Deep Hydration Facial Toner, Fresh, £34 Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Wash, Elemis, £32.50 Daily Moisture Boost, Elemis, £34 Blueberry Lavender Chamomile Herbal Body Silk, Hempz, POA

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BEAUTY

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Makeup

Lipstick in Honor, Kjaer Weis, POA Loose Mineral Eye Shadow, Inika, £16 Certified Organic Brow Pencil, Inika, £16 Cloud Paint in Dusk, Glossier, £15 Mattifying Primer, 100% Primer, £45.97 Fruit Pigmented Water Foundation, 100% Pure, £39.27 Bamboo Blur Translucent Powder, 100% Pure, £38.31 Phyto Pigments Sheer Lip Gloss, Juice Beauty, POA Phyto Pigment Liquid Line and Define, Juice Beauty, POA Mineral Blush in Rose, Green People, £20 Stretch Concealer, Glossier, £15 WWW.DWHA.CO.UK

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Spa Day Bliss Relax and unwind this spring at the Bannatyne Health Club & Spa, a state-of-the-art wellness retreat with many luxurious locations across the UK Reviewed by Jack Taylor

Scalp Massage RELAXING TENSION RELIEF

This massage was surprisingly effective at balancing my stress levels and restoring inner peace and wellbeing. Invigorating, essential oils are used to massage the scalp and alleviate any unwanted tension.

Throughout the treatment I felt like I was in good hands and that all of my cares and troubles were being soothed away. If you suffer from headaches or light sensitivity this massage is an excellent choice.

Elemis Sensitive Skin Soother

Swedish Back, Neck & Shoulders Massage

This miracle treatment incorporates elements of massage, for a truly relaxing experience. The use of active exfoliants such as Moroccan Rose, Chamomile and Apricot, combined with the deeply nourishing Neroli mask created a much-needed moisture boost. In 55 minutes, my skin felt plumper, rehydrated and healthier. If your skin is feeling particularly damaged this winter and in need of some revitalisation, then this is the right treatment for you.

This 3-in-1 massage is perfect for anyone who holds tension in their back muscles like me. For 25 relaxing minutes the masseuse applied pressure to stressed areas such as my shoulders and lower back, helping to increase oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins. I was amazed at the difference this made, the years of general wear and tear had been reversed as if by magic.

IMPROVES TEXTURE REHYDRATES

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RELAXES TENSION RELIEF ELIMINATES TOXINS

WWW.BANNATYNE.CO.UK 0344 477 4777

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Aisle Ready

BEAUTY

Put your best face forward with these luxurious London beauty treatments that will prep you for the big day

Chelseé Lewis MAYFAIR, LONDON Good for: Traditional + Tech Facials

For all your skincare needs, award-winning facialist Chelseé Lewis in Mayfair is your new go-to. Chelseé does all the appointments herself in her sunny walkup clinic which is celebrating its fifth anniversary in business this year. With over 22 years in the beauty industry, Chelseé has the expert knowledge to treats brides with bespoke programs beginning up to a year before their wedding. Specializing in non-surgical facial treatments that are often a blend of traditional, hands on massage with technological advances, she integrates therapies like radio frequency, LED and 3D HIFU technology with soothing and effective Parisian Yon-ka skincare products to boost collagen and combat wrinkles. For my personalized facial, Chelseé did a traditional regimen of steps which included cleansing, exfoliation, massage, moisturising, steam, extraction and mask. This custom treatment left my skin absolutely glowing when I left and the benefits have lasted. You will love Chelseé’s holistic approach as she goes above and beyond to suggest ways of healing the skin from the inside out as well as outside in! www.chelseelewis.co.uk @ChelseeLewis

info@chelseelewis.co.uk

@chelseelewis

Call us at +44 07946893842 By Appointments Only

“Greeted by Chelseé’s cheerful demeanor and a glass of cucumber water, you will feel completely at ease as you slide onto the heated massage bed for your facial treatments.”

Browhaus ISLINGTON, LONDON Good for: Brow + Lash Grooming

A worldwide lash and grooming salon that creates sophisticated styles, Browhaus specializes in highlighting the facial features that you want everyone to notice. A blend of the latest urban trends combined with the elegance of a natural look, Browhaus’ treatments are perfect for brides. Their new branch in Islington, London is a vibrant space where a group of passionate beauty experts take care of your every need! This is the first time I have done a lashgraphy and lash curl up and I have to say the result exceeded my expectations. Brides are usually advised to get eyelash extensions, however this curl perm will also leave your eyes looking flawless for five weeks! The excellent team explains the whole process throughout the treatment, which comforts you while your eyes are closed for a stretch of time. To put you at ease, you will be offered a warm blanket and music will accompany throughout. Do not worry, it is all worth it: be prepared to be stunned by a 3D effect without the use of mascara! www.browhaus.com @ChelseeLewis @BrowhausUK

info@browhaus-uk.com

Contact: +44 020 7226 1225

By Appointment Only

“A blend of the latest urban trends combined with the elegance of a natural look.”

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FASHION Take a peek at some of our favourite eco-friendly bridal fashion companies & choose the best swimsuit for your honeymoon in paradise

Sansuytha Shrestha ENTWINED LOVE COLLECTION ...page 66 DID YOU KNOW The “something blue” in a bridal ensemble symbolizes purity, fidelity and love

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Berta has triumphed once again with the unveiling of her 2019 Muse collection. Renowned for her avantgarde and contemporary styles, this new collection tests the barriers once more. Soft shoulder details are complemented by cascading skirts and delicate fabrics. Vintage materials are used to create a bold and sexy silhouette. Each gown has been considerably crafted to flatter the womanly form.

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FASHION

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FASHION

D E M E T R I O S Demetrios’ Seaside and the City collection offers the modern bride versatile and cutting edge styles.

Inspired by the calm of the sea and the intricate beauty of the city, each delicately designed gown boasts of graceful and elegant sophistication, ideal for those searching for a classic bridal look. Their in-house style enhances natural beauty and dainty silhouette of each bride.

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1. Gidget Bikini Top, Jets Swimwear, £85 2. Georgia Print Bikini Top, Lipsy, £28 3. Georgia Print Bikini Bottom, Lipsy, £18 4. Azura Smocked Criss Cross Halter Top, PilyQ, POA 5. Azura Smocked Teeny Bottoms, PilyQ, POA 6. Mirage Tank One Piece, Jets Swimwear, £128

Swim in Style Embrace your feminine shape with these stunning swimsuits and bikinis

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Gottex Gottex Couture Couture Swimsuit, Swimsuit, Harrods, Harrods, £255 £255

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7. Riviera Colour Block Keyhole Halter, PilyQ, POA 8. Riviera Colour Block Banded Teeny Bottoms, PilyQ, POA 9. Colour Block Underwire Crop Bandeau Top, Figleaves, £28 10. Colour Block High Waisted Tummy Control Briefs, Figleaves, £38 11. Pearl One Piece, Maiyo, £105 12. Stripe Textured Bikini Top, JD Williams, £16 13. Stripe Textured Bikini Bottoms, JD Williams, £26

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Gottex Floral Bikini Top £115 Bottoms, Harrods £54.95

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Ethical Bridal Wear

FASHION

Leanne Marshall

The ultra creative, ethereal bridal gowns of eco-conscious designer Leanne Marshall are a true breath of fresh air in the springtime. After winning Project Runway, Californian Marshall launched her signature bridal line comprised of white and pastel gowns handcrafted in the United States. For the bride looking for something a little different. These floaty creations will see you down the aisle with serene grace.

Drajee

Drajée London crafts unique pieces of jewellery for any occasion. Whether you are going out with your friends or choosing your special wedding accessories, Drajée empowers women to wear affordable and opulent jewels. The beauty of their diamonds and gold is distinguished by the brand’s exclusive use of ethical materials, which makes this modern brand stand out from the rest. Each design is styled to blend perfectly with your inner beauty, so pick your timeless piece and radiate your aura of elegance.

Get the Look!

Star Diamond Bracelet, Drajee, £690 Heart Diamond Earrings, Drajee, £1,178 Coil Pheonix Ring, Drajee, £73 Circular Gold Earrings, Drajee, £216

Luna Bride

The handmade gems created by Luna Bride, are tailored for a bride looking for carefree romantic designs and ethereal beauty. A softness and fairytale aura surround these vibrant wedding designs, perfect for a beachy and bucolic backdrop for a bohemian and elegant bride. The purity and beauty of the dresses comes from the care for the creatures who made the silk and the research of the perfect organic materials. A vintage flair meets a soft modern style with ethically made fabrics which stand out in floral prints.

THE GALAXYS EDGE PHOTOGRAPHY LJB HAIR AND MAKE UP MODEL-FEDERIKA KURTULIKOVA

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Dress: Angelina Dress Photography: Albento Bacchin

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FASHION

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Organic fabrics and an effortless elegance are key elements of ecoconscious brand Wear Your Love. The love for nature makes these designs free-spirited and purely graceful. The delicacy of the Kindred Spirit collection is created with organic fabrics like luxe cotton and refined bamboo. These create a perfect union of sophistication with simplicity inspired by nymphs of the sea. This easy-to-wear dress Lennox Chiffon has been crafted by the eco-conscious atelier to be the perfect fit for a special bride. This is a collection of sensual designs, perfect for letting go at bonfire dances surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Dress: Lennox Chiffon Photography: Francesca Ravelli

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FASHION G A L AHAV

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Taking you on a journey through an enchanted forest the Gala Collection No7 by Galia Lahav evokes feelings of magic and mystery. The collection seeks to represent the beautiful free spirit, creativity and imagination that lie within every bride. Each pristine gown has been flawlessly crafted using quality material, hand sewn lace appliquĂŠ and intricate beading, to mirror the poise and grace of the feminine figure.

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Organic fabrics and an effortless elegance embrace the natural essence of Wear Your Love. The love for nature makes these designs free-spirited and purely graceful. The delicacy of the collection is created with organic fabrics, as lux organic cotton and refined bamboo, which create a perfect union of sophistication together with the simplicity inspired by the nymphs of the sea. These easy-to-wear dresses have been crafted by the eco-conscious atelier to produce the perfect fit for a special bride. A collection of sensual designs, perfect for letting go to bonfire dances surrounded by the beauty of nature at its finest.

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A pioneer in eco-friendly and sustainable high fashion Sanyukta Shrestha stuns again with the release of the Entwined Love Chapter 2 Collection. Inspired by the memorable women Sanyukta has personally designed bespoke wedding dresses for; each unique design embraces femininity and soft elegance. Using sustainable materials, each gown has been crafted with rare and luxurious fabrics, making them truly unique and utterly romantic.

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FASHION

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“Lake Garda Weddings quite literally made our dreams come true, seriously! From the moment we first contacted them we were given an extremely helpful, friendly and above-all professional service.”

Via Navene, 8 - 37018 Malcesine VR Lake Garda, Italy PIVA: 01922450224 T. +39 045 6584050 - M. +39 348 5964362 info@lakegardaweddings.com

www.lakegardaweddings.com

DESTINATIONS Sunbathe in Cyprus, ski in Aspen and enjoy city life in Toronto as you take a unique honeymoon break. Book your travel plans ahead, these places are hot spots that you don’t want to miss

Golden ISLES ...page 90 DID YOU KNOW? On average, the honeymoon accounts for 14% of the wedding budget

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Cliffs of Moher Retreat: Connect to Nature Escape to a once-in-a-lifetime retreat where you can practice movement, mindfulness and the art of healthy eating in the stunning countryside adjacent to the famed Cliffs of Moher.

Restorative classes, vigorous walks and beautiful amenities make this retreat a true gem for yoga lovers!

By Kristie Landing

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ou arrive at the retreat centre in County Clare, Ireland just as the sun is about to set on the most clear, beautiful evening. A fire burns brightly in the common area and you make your way to your room, lovingly set with fresh Egyptian cotton linens and calming blue curtains. Yoga is in an hour, so you join the rest of the group in the kitchen for welcome bites of delicious chocolate oat energy balls, strawberries and a soothing Tulsi and cardamom blend tea.

From there, head to the yoga shala, a truly spectacular studio set on a hill with views to the sea and beyond, even as far as the Kerry Mountains. The mats are arranged facing the large glass front with candles lit around the room, including one held by a polished Buddha. As you set an intention for the weekend, all the stress that had been building on your shoulders gently drifts away‌ For the bride looking for a bit of R&R before the big day, the Cliffs of Moher Retreat offers total serenity and immersion in a quiet, scenic location where you can unwind and concentrate on caring for yourself. There is a variety of retreats to choose from depending on what you are looking for, including the one I experienced, ‘Connect to Nature.’ The yoga and vegetarian diet will aid with detoxing and clearing up any skin or gastric issues and the hikes will work on toning the muscles without having to spend time at the gym. This retreat is also perfect for wellness hen parties as there are plenty of opportunities to spend quality time with your friends.

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DESTINATIONS

Say ‘Om’…

Welcome to complete relaxation. The yoga taught at the retreat is very restorative and concentrated on breath, stretching and mindfulness. If you have only done yoga a few times or even not at all, you can definitely still come on this retreat because the pace is very mellow and you won’t be pushed into doing anything you don’t want to try. Take in the burning of incense and listen to the mantras spoken to you, like, ‘The way you do anything is the way you do everything,’ meaning that it’s important to take care of the tiny details and understand the foundations fully to master the difficulties in yoga (and life).

You may even get to take your first Yoga Nidra class, aka the ‘sleep of yogis,’ completely focused on relaxation. Each day, end your class covered in a provided soft blanket and an eye mask sachet as you lie in complete bliss in savasana.

Grounds & Greens

The retreat centre is comprised of five completely refurbished houses, a state of the art custom yoga studio with meditation deck and luxury amenities including two hot tubs and a glass fronted sauna. With 14 bedrooms, the retreat sleeps up to 30 people, so you don’t have to worry about feeling overwhelmed by a huge crowd in class. There is a charming communal space in each of the five houses with a cosy fire to curl up to and read during your downtime.

Don’t forget to say hello to the two affectionate outdoor cats who mightily defend the property!

For each of your meals, head to the dining room where the most delicious smells waft from large serving dishes filled to the brim with colourful, gorgeous vegetarian cuisine.

The retreat is a detox in many senses, including for your body so you will be eating ingredients like veggies, coconut, ginger and...did I mention veggies? The first night, we had Shepherdless Pie made with sweets potatoes and quinoa and the most fresh bib lettuce picked from a vegetable garden. Everything, even the Green Goddess dressing was phenomenally good so I didn’t have to worry about being hungry even though I normally don’t stick to an all vegetarian diet. There are even delicious desserts like raw chocolate cake for those of you with a sweet tooth!

Work Up A Sweat

The cliff walk is definitely a highlight of the retreat, but it is not for the faint of heart! If you are seeking a completely restorative retreat, inquire about one without the hike, perhaps their cooking or meditation retreat. The ‘Connect to Nature’ weekend includes a vigorous 9 mile walk up craggy rocks as you skirt the edge of the cliffs. However, if you looking for a fit holiday, it is perfect for you and the views of the cliffs are absolutely out of this world!

After the hike, relax your muscles with a soak in the cedar wood hot tub where cedar oils seep into the water with a rich and rejuvenating scent. Follow this with 10 minutes in the sauna and you will be feeling ready for a power nap before yoga at night. Or, if you book ahead, you can enjoy a relaxing massage by the onsite specialist. If you’re feeling up for more movement instead of downtime, head 10 minutes down the road to The Rock Shop, where you will discover a treasure trove of crystal gems, Irish handmade jewelry and souvenirs to take home. cliffsofmoherretreat.com

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Paradise Found Soft sugar white sands stretch out in a pearly string of remote archipelago, where you will discover the exquisite newly opened OBLU Select at Sangeli, Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts’ latest Maldivian luxury retreat Words by Emily Williams

T

here are few destinations on earth that you need to see to believe, and this fragile landmass peppered across the Indian Ocean really is as picturesque as all the postcards promise. As you fly into Malé International airport, otherworldly atoll rings sprawl out like speech bubbles above dazzling depths, and calming shades of blue begin to saturate every vista. There is something hypnotic about the omnipresence of sun, sea and sky in this part of the world, and not before long, you’ll find yourself lying out as flat as the horizon. The Maldivian resort scene offers a paradox like no other, as guests can be left to bask in the slow-paced simplicity of castaway living, whilst revelling in the epitome of luxury. It is no surprise why discerning travellers feel compelled to return over and over again.

Marine Utopia

From gentle crystalline lagoons to the plunging indigo abyss, aquatic activities will naturally highlight your Maldivian memories. Whether you choose to water-ski, parasail, jump on a high-speed jet ski or scale the coral carpeted waters on a transparent-bottomed kayak, the options are as limitless as the ocean. When you glance

below into the panorama of sapphire blue, you’ll also see why the Maldives is a world-class scuba diving destination to spot unusual deep-sea giants. For example, the strong current and flourishing plankton in the deep channels between islands provide optimum feeding grounds for whale sharks, the world’s biggest fish. At OBLU Select and most other island resorts, the inhouse dive schools host an expert team of PADI and SSI certified instructors.

Whether you’re a qualified diver or a curious beginner, anyone can experience close encounters with the magical beauty of the house reef.

Sensational Snorkelling

However, if diving isn’t for you, so much can be seen even with just a snorkel and pair of flippers in tow. More light reaches the coral ecosystem in the shallower depths, and so you’ll have a higher chance of finding rays skimming the water’s surface, gentle hawksbill turtles, and tiny clownfish reeling around the vibrant anemones. Specialised boat trips are organised daily for resort guests, and enthusiastic guides will take you to all the best snorkelling spots, as well as refresh you with delicious canapés and a glass of bubbly for the return journey! It’s an unmissable opportunity to discover the best of this thalassic oasis.

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DESTINATIONS

Hideaway Sanctuary

As a destination, the Maldives is known to be synonymous with relaxation, and no trip would be complete without indulging in a luxury treatment at a water-spying spa. Surrounded by luscious palms and a soothing tropical breeze, OBLU Select’s Elena Spa & Wellness Centre is exclusive to the adults-only One Banyan Island.

On entry, you’ll be encouraged to leave your shoes and everyday worries behind at the doorstep, as you unwind and cherish the peacefulness of the

present moment. The dedicated spa staff will help you form a holistic therapy programme specific to your body over a revitalising cup of green tea, and you can handpick from a rich selection of natural oils for your treatments. From manicures and massages, to ancient Ayurvedic practices

that leave you on the cusp of sleep, the spa provides a zone of utmost tranquillity.

OBLU Select’s honeymoon package offers each couple two treatments during their stay, and the Renewal of Vows package also includes a couple’s spa session, so that you can savour moments of reflection before your ceremony.

Desert Island Discovery

Although luxury resorts dominate most of the larger islands across this scattered terrain, there are still many miniature islets left untouched.

Taking a boat cruise or a fishing trip to a solitary sandbar, surrounded only by pale aquamarine waters is the ultimate excursion for honeymooners. OBLU Select can organise you both a picnic of a lifetime on an abandoned arc of powdered beach, and leave you to your own devices in Robin Crusoeesque settings. Bury your toes in the soft grains of sand, feast on a delicious spread and absorb the dream-like sensation of being totally isolated in a private paradise. Return to OBLU Select’s Rock bar on the edge of Sangeli Island for an early evening cocktail, and watch the spellbinding glitter of the equatorial sun melting on the horizon.

There is something hypnotic about the omnipresence of sun, sea and sky in this part of the world...

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Where to stay: Oblu Select at Sangeli Situated on the northwestern tip of the Male Atoll, OBLU Select at Sangeli is the latest four-star addition to the Maldivian maritime map, operated by Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts. From the international Male airport, board a stylish 50-minute speedboat ride to this hovering heaven on stilts, and expect a Royal greeting at the jetty. A courteous line of smiling staff and an ensemble of traditional drummers will serenade you along the palm-fringed boardwalks. If one thing is for sure, OBLU’s hospitality has a contagious warmth; it feels as though you’re returning to a long lost home.

OBLU Select takes pride in being the only premium all-inclusive resort in the Maldives. But, you can forget the ‘quantity over quality’ tag that may come to mind, as even at the large-scale Courtyard restaurant, the remarkable assortment of global cuisine and live cooking stations change day by day. The honeymoon package not only guarantees unlimited access to this inexhaustible buffet, but also includes a la carte culinary experiences at the alternative Simply Veg (gourmet vegetarian) and Just Grill (speciality meat and fresh seafood) restaurants. The contemporary design, digital tablet menus

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and sophisticated furnishings at these gastronomic bistros make for a more exclusive dining environment on OBLU’s One Banyan island outpost.

On an exclusive sprig of walkway beyond the chain of water villas and suspended gym, the six over-the-water honeymoon suites perch like love nests on the ocean. Inside, the round rosy pink double bed makes for a glamorous centrepiece, surrounded by a glittering curtain of jewels and a sensual overhead mirror that opens to reveal starlit skies by night. Step over the iridescent glass floorboard (where you may spy small reef sharks feeding in the early hours), and into the extravagant en suite bathroom, and you’ll find a romantic red freestanding bath, a walk-in his and hers wardrobe and an exotic open-air shower.

Beyond floor length bedroom windows, the spacious sundecks are fitted with private infinity plunge pools and a staircase that steps directly down into the crystal clear lagoon. With a fully stocked minibar, a butler on call at all hours, and even a special honeymoon turn down service, these suites will never fail to impress as you return at day’s end to a hot tub of rose petal bubble bath, champagne and heart shaped chocolate treats on your pillow. You’ll be left wondering if Cupid himself had dropped by to sprinkle his good wishes.

DESTINATIONS

Maldivian Bouquet The luscious vegetation, brilliant sands and luminous cyan-blue sea backdrops at Maldivian weddings speak for themselves, and so bouquets traditionally harmonise with a ‘back-to-nature’ feel. Brides may choose to incorporate the national Pink Rose flower, which symbolises love and beauty, and often decorate their hair with delicate frangipani garlands. Maldivian Bodu Beru drummers will initiate the beautiful barefoot ceremony, leading the bride down the aisle to unite with the groom and receive blessings from the island chief.

Food For Thought The native Maldivian cuisine is predictably simple due to the isolated geography of the islands, and given that 99% of this South Asian territory is sea, fish is a natural food staple. Tuna is a popular catch, and is used to create curries and soups, as well as a typical breakfast choice called Mas Huni (a blend of tuna fish with grated coconut, onions, chilli and lime juice, served with a griddled pancake called roshi). Throughout the day, locals often snack on what they call hedhikaa, or ‘short eats’. These are often made up of samosa-like fried pastries prepared in a variety of textures and filled with fish and spices. The vegetation on the island also provides an exotic selection of fruits, such as mangoes, papayas, coconuts and pineapples.

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Don’t Miss: January/February: Best Diving Time High season in the Maldives falls across these months, due to guaranteed unbroken sunshine and the best visibility for diving.

March/April: The Surf Season At this time of year, avid boarders flock to the resorts to access the best barrelling breaks during the surf season.

May/June: Kuda Eid Festival Delicious family feasts and gatherings occur for Kuda Eid, a religious celebration that marks the end of Ramazan.

July/August: Independence Day Male’s streets erupt with dancing, music and festival floats as islanders rejoice on annual Independence Day, the 26th and 27th July.

September/October: National Day falls across the month of October, and honours Mohammed Thakurufaanu’s army overthrowing the Portuguese to regain independence.

November/ December: Maldivian Victory Day Observe military marches, drills and traditional dance processions commemorating the defeat of Sri Lankan militaries, on Maldivian Victory Day.

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DESTINATIONS

Must Dine: Aphrodite’s Rock Microbrewery With a deliciously fresh & fun take on Cypriot dining and artisanal drinks, Aphrodite’s Rock Microbrewery is a definite for bridal couples & honeymooners…

T

he sun drenched island of Cyprus boasts a rich culture, age-old traditions and breathtaking landscapes to carry you away into honeymoon bliss! This stunning nation in the Eastern Mediterranean is the third largest and third most populous island in the Mediterranean, so there is no lack for choice when it comes to hotels, restaurants or things to do.

However, if there’s one spot you can’t miss, it’s the lively, familyrun Aphrodite’s Rock Microbrewery in Paphos, routinely ranked #1 in Tripadvisor “Things to Do in Paphos.”

Cypriot Hospitality

For honeymooners looking to kick back and enjoy a fun afternoon, Aphrodite’s Rock offers the finest pizza in Cyprus as well as world renowned craft brews and cider to savour. For enthusiasts, take a tour of the brewery and ask as many questions as you like while sampling the delicious offerings!

Aphrodite’s Rock values family and naturally warm Cypriot hospitality, so it’s no surprise that service is top notch.

Whatever the occasion, we know you’ll create lasting memories! (www.aphroditesrock.com.cy/)

Cypriot Secrets Steeped in mystery and riddled with ancient riches, the nation of Cyprus is the ideal honeymoon destination. Discover an island of indigenous traditions, compelling culture and riveting landscapes!

Nissi Beach

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omposed of pearlescent shorelines, topaz waters and incredible topography, the scenic views of Cyprus are the perfect revitalising antithesis to city life. Rich in history, mineral wealth and culture, delight in sun kissed adventures with your significant other. Wander through a host of charming wineries and sample delicious varieties of what locals used to worship as the ‘nectar of the gods’. Unearth ancient treasures and relics of Greek mythology, at the many archaeological sites sprinkled around the island. Intrepid travellers who seek more of an outdoor adventure can venture off into the wildflower-studded meadows and valleys; hike up rugged mountains and go biking along the stony country roads. Truly a honeymoon haven, this remarkable island is complete with treasures and secrets that await your discovery.

Golden Coast

Celebrated for its golden coastline, sultry sunshine and azure waves, the temperate Mediterranean climate of Cyprus is what makes it the perfect honeymoon hotspot. Couples are drawn to the sun-soaked sands and tropical island vibe. Thoughts of relaxing by the ocean waves or tying the knot on the pearlescent sands captivate the hearts of many.

Discover the mythical birthplace of love itself, Aphrodite’s Rock. The remarkable sea stack located between Paphos and Limassol is said to be the birthplace of the ancient Greek Goddess of love who is believed to have emerged from the foamy waters many years ago. The stunning area of beauty is the perfect backdrop for an amorous escapade. Many flock to the sacred rock all year round due to its impressive formations and dazzling scenes.

If you’re after a more intimate coastline experience, why not visit the Golden Beach, a beautiful gem in the Karpas Peninsula.

The glittering sands melt smoothly into the calm waters, and deluxe sand dunes pepper the curved coast. Wild donkey’s graze softly on the hillside and the warm sun shine crisps the grassy hills. The truly enchanting setting is ideal for a blissfully secluded afternoon with your love.

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DESTINATIONS

Church of Saint George

Ancient History

Beyond the sun-soaked stretches of sand lies an island filled with cultural history and ancient riches. More than just a sultry island escape, Cyprus is home to a mythical history and exciting artefacts. Its mystical multi-layered past has left behind trails of historical mighty kingdoms. Its countryside corners are peppered with Roman mosaics, mountaintop castles, Phoenician tombs and remnants from the Bronze Age. Take a journey through history with your significant other on this magnificent ancient island.

Situated on a hillside in the countryside of Limassol, with sweeping panoramic views of the ocean is the Ancient Kourion site. It is believed to have been founded in the Neolithic times, around the 13th century. A history buff’s haven; wander off to the northern edge to the House of Achilles, where you can find the archaic fragments of intricate mosaics depicting the Greek hero, Achilles meeting with Odysseus. Journey to the Northern Plateau and see preserved ruins from the Hellenistic and Roman times. Discover the Roman agora and the stoa with its group of 16 marble pillars as they sit alongside the Christian basilica. A wooden walkway leads you the significant remnants of the Roman city baths and the nymphaeum; a monument dedicated to the mythical nymphs. On the same spectacular site is the Ancient Kourion’s Roman theatre. Seated high on the hills overlooking the

azure waves, the reconstructed theatre is today often used for cultural events.

Take a trip to the Paphos archaeological site and discover many more depictions of ancient mythological tales, from illustrations of the famous tale of Narcissus to mosaics based on Ovid’s Metamorphoses; the story of the Pyramus and Thisbe.

Limassol

Aphrodite’s Rock

Love Bridge

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Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Limassol Placed delicately on the coastline of the sultry island of Cyprus, is the exquisite Four Seasons Hotel. The indulgent hotel spa overlooks the pristine golden beaches that line the coast of Limassol. Having been recently restored, the luxury hotel boasts of a refined look and feel and ensures that each guest has an experience of elite living. Each spacious room is adorned with light colours and luxurious yet cosy features, offering a blend of traditional comfort and contemporary style. Delight in remarkable panoramic views from the comfort of your suite with your loved one.

Perfect for honeymooners, immerse yourself in complete peace and tranquillity at their bespoke Shiseido spa and indulge in a variety of aromatherapy and purification treatments. Put your trust in the hands of their experienced therapists, as the serene ambiance enthrals you to leave behind the concerns of everyday life.

Partake in a delicious gastronomic journey and sample the cuisine at each of the Four Seasons’ five restaurants. Catering to all tastes and occasions, start off your day with a delectable breakfast at the Tropical Restaurant overlooking the scenic views of the cobalt lagoon and pool. In the evening enjoy a tasty selection of tapas style appetizers, Sushi & Nigiri, Oysters and Caviar at the Seafood Bar. For a definitive wedding experience, say your nuptials on the golden sands of the Limassol coast. Whether you desire an extravagant celebration or a more intimate romantic event, the team at the Four Seasons will ensure that your wedding will be as special as your love. www.fourseasons.com.cy

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DESTINATIONS

Makaronia Tou Fournou

Afelia

Souvlaki

Food For Thought Renowned for their hearty meals, Cyprus is home to several culinary delights. Rich in various spices and herbs, Cypriot cuisine has been heavily influenced by countries across the Middle East and Europe, with various meats and seafood playing an essential role. Tantalise your taste buds with a delicious feast of small dishes called Meze. Composed of creamy hummus, kebabs, Afelia (pork cooked in red wine) and other delectable treats, it’s the perfect dish to share with your loved one.

A particular favourite with the natives and tourists alike, is Souvlaki. The Greek

inspired dish consists of small pieces of charcoal-grilled meat on a skewer served with a large amount of fresh salad. The pitta bread used is thinner and larger than the Greek version, and contains a pocket to hold the ingredients. These are spiced parcels filled with delicious grilled meat and herbs.

Another popular Cypriot dish is Makaronia tou fournou. The exquisite pasta dish is made of bĂŠchamel sauce, minced pork and creamy halloumi cheese. Sprinkled with dry mint the Cypriot delicacy is usually served with a crunchy side salad.

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Don’t Miss: January/February: The Festival of Epiphany It is known in Cyprus as ‘Ta Fota’ which means ‘the light’ and is a big festival that celebrates the Baptism of Christ. Celebrations take place in all the harbours and locals wear their best clothes and enjoy their traditional tray of Lokoumades (tiny honey-soaked doughnuts) bought from the roadside stalls.

March/April: Limassol Carnival A very important Cypriot tradition, this carnival is celebrated across Cyprus but the biggest celebrations take place in Limassol. It takes place during the two weeks before the Greek Orthodox Lenten period. It’s a week of masqued balls, concerts and a parade of beautifully decorated floats; visit the amazing funfilled event with your love.

May/June: Anthestiria Flower Festival During this season, stroll down to the streets of Anthestiria and witness the beautiful blooms. The flower festival is a celebration of spring and rebirth and dates back to the ancient Greek period. The festival ends with a parade of decorated floats that carry flowers to the harbour.

July/August: Shakespearean Nights The stunning ancient theatre at Kourion near Limassol is the perfect backdrop for the plays of William Shakespeare so if you’re a fan of his work why not visit for the annual event. Shakespearean plays are performed at the amphitheatre which is home to the most picturesque panoramic views of Cyprus.

September/October: Pafos Aphrodite Opera Festival The Pafos Aphrodite Opera Festival is one of the most significant festivals of performing arts in Cyprus, held in the ancient Pafos Medieval Castle. The stunning venue welcomes talented performers from around the world, and showcases three opera performers. It’s ideal for an eventful evening with your love.

November/ December: The Christmas Season Christmastime in Cyprus is an intimate occasion. Visit the many churches celebrating with carol services and events. Celebrate like the locals and indulge in their traditional Christmas cake, made using Spoon Sweets and hand decorated with homemade marzipan.

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DESTINATIONS

An interview with

Dr. Maria Socatous W

hen you think of Cyprus, thoughts of captivating ocean views and sun kissed white sands, strewn with striking sea shells, come to mind. The soothing sounds of the waves gently stroking the sea shore, a seemingly untouched island and mesmerizing sea life, it is the perfect destination for a romantic escapade.

The picturesque island is an ever-growing hotspot for destination weddings and amorous honeymoons. Dr Maria Socratous, tourist officer at the Deputy Ministry of Tourism in Cyprus shares with us why Cyprus is consistently stealing the hearts of newlyweds and what to expect when visiting!

PEOPLE WHO CHOOSE CYPRUS as a wedding or honeymoon destination prefer the Paphos or Famagusta areas. My experience tells me that this is due to the clean, beautiful beaches and other activities such as winery tours, hiking routes, and archaeological sites that these areas have to offer.

NEWLYWEDS CAN ENJOY spa treatments at our 5-star hotels; they can visit the villages for Cypriot fare and hospitality, visit wineries for wine-tasting and enjoy the idyllic scenery. Depending on the weather they can engage in some water-sports and outdoor activities. They can also go skiing during the winter!

POPULAR SETTINGS FOR WEDDINGS in Cyprus tend to be beach hotels but lately some couples prefer the wineries in Paphos area. The scenery is magnificent!

THE BEST PLACES FOR SIGHTSEEING, is Paphos.

Archaeologically speaking, it is the most interesting. If you are into art and culture, museums, galleries and theatres then Nicosia or Limassol are your best options. For shopping it’s definitely Nicosia, although both Limassol and Paphos have great shopping malls.

CYPRIOTS ARE VERY FRIENDLY AND HOSPITABLE! We always go the extra mile to accommodate our guests and make them feel welcome. We are a bit loud at times but that’s because we are happy! The majority of the people speak English so for tourists this is a major plus!

THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT IS ANYTIME! We have sunshine 350 days per year! Again it depends on the activities people would want to engage in but for adventurous outdoor activities, spring is ideal. For touring around the wineries and tasting the new produce of our indigenous wines I would recommend October to December. We offer year-round activities for all!

TO REALLY GET A GOOD UNDERSTANDING OF THE HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL BACKGROUND OF CYPRUS, I would suggest going to Paphos if staying in a

town but if they don’t mind the road then the Troodos area and its small villages would be ideal. A must visit is to the UNESCO protected churches -we have 10 in total.

A PHRASE ONLY SOMEONE FROM CYPRUS WOULD USE? It’s a classic - Yamas! Although it’s not just used in Cyprus, we do really use it all the time, so I had to choose this word.

A MUST-HAVE IN YOUR SUITCASE WHEN FLYING TO CYPRUS IS Sunscreen!

Editor's Picks Have a look through the roundup of our favourite hotels and restaurants ideal for your romantic stay on the breathtaking island

Restaurants

STOU KIR YIANNI, OMODOS

A delicious fusion of traditional Cypriot fare with European blends, this cosy eatery is ideal for candlelit dinners with your love (stoukiryianni.com)

THE STEAK HOUSE, LIMASSOL

Surrounded by scenic ocean views the luxurious Steak House in Limassol is home to the finest cuts of meats in the city (thesteakhouse.eu)

Hotels

THANOS HOTELS

Conveying the essence and serenity of the Mediterranean, this independent collection of lifestyle hotels offer astounding views and unparalleled service (thanoshotels.com)

FOUR SEASONS

Immerse yourself in complete luxury at the four seasons. Indulge in exquisite fare, a lavish spa and plush suites. It is the ideal resort for your honeymoon escape. (fourseasons.com.cy)

GOLDEN BAY BEACH

Situated on edge of Larnca along the pearlescent sands and turquoise waters, is the Golden Bay Beach Hotel. The 5 star hotels is excellent for a luxury stay. (goldenbay.com.cy

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Golden Isles Off the coast of Northwestern Africa, the Spanish archipelago of the Canary Islands emerges as a tantalizing tropical escape for newlyweds

By Kristie Landing

I

ndulge in the trip of a lifetime and allow your mind and soul to be whisked away to paradise in the Canary Islands. The seven main islands, including Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro offer seafront resorts, volcanoes, prehistoric sites and idyllic temperatures, so you’re sure to experience a truly remarkable holiday in the sun wherever you land. You and your loved one will find serenity amidst the waterfalls of Las Palmas, endless plains in Fuerteventura and lush pine forests of Tenerife. Or, if you seek adventure, there’s plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from helicopter rides and whale watching to dancing in Tenerife’s world-renowned Carnival in the spring.

where you can spend the afternoon observing steamy lava fields and then delight in dinner at the tasty El Diablo Restaurant. Take a long hike through Roque de Agando on La Gomera, a stunning rock formation that once held significant value to the original Berber inhabitants of the island who created shrines and sacrificial points in the mountains. Dolphin watch in Gran Canaria and Tenerife from the comfort of a lush boat excursion or go kitesurfing in Fuerteventura for an up-close aquatic encounter! At night, take a romantic stargazing tour in La Palma, where local light restrictions allow for one of the best views of the night sky in the world. (www/adastralapalma.com)

Cultural Abundance

Adventure Calls

If you crave adventure, then island life is calling to you! As the varied and rugged terrain melds with soft sandy beaches, there’s no shortage of jaw-dropping experiences above and below ground in the Canary Islands. Head to Lanzarote’s famed Timanfaya National Park, home to the dormant ‘Fire Mountains’ volcanoes

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Unlike many other popular beach destinations, the Canary Islands are lush with cultural activities. The buzzing artistic energy permeates every corner of the Canary Islands, painting the towns every shade of the rainbow. Wander through the huge abstract geometric sculptures and murals of locals Martín Chirino and César Manrique on the islands of Gran Canaria and Lanzarote and be sure to stop by the César Manrique Foundation for deeper experience with the artwork.

If you’re a fan of Dali and the Surrealists, you’ll love the work of Óscar Domínguez on display in his hometown of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

DESTINATIONS

Imagine roaming the cobbled streets of the charming town of Teror on Gran Canaria, where brightly colored houses with terracotta roofs create a delectable visual feast. For something more literally hearty, sample the fusion of African, European and American dishes that the islands have adopted in local restaurants. You also won’t want to miss the incredible cathedrals whose spires stretch high into the sky. In the town of Arucas in Gran Canaria, admire the Neo-Gothic Church of San Juan Bautista, which has a beautiful Sagrada Familia (Gaudí) look. The stunning Iglesia de La Concepción in Tenerife, which is the only church in the Canary Islands with five naves is another must-see.

Relax & Refresh

It’s your honeymoon, of course you need some R&R in between sightseeing and lying on the sand. Luckily, the Canary Islands are bursting with relaxing experiences, from thalassotherapy to natural bathing pools. Rejuvenate with natural seawater therapy at one of the many spas at seaside resorts throughout the islands. We’d recommend you try a treatment and massage at The Gloria Palace Amadores in Gran Canaria, one of the best thalassotherapy centers in Europe. (gloriapalaceth.com) For a more nature-focused approach, float on the turquoise waters of the Charco Azul bathing pools on the island

of El Hierro. Nestled in the valley of El Golfo, this natural wonder created by volcanic activity is pure bliss.

Perfect 10: Tenerife

We’ve selected Tenerife, the island of ‘eternal spring’ as our favourite wedding and honeymoon destination in the Canary Islands for its wide and enticing range of activities, restaurants and luxury hotels in a truly enchanting atmosphere.

The golden sand beaches are a stunning venue for your unforgettable ceremony and reception and you can dance all night under the stars without restraint. Tenerife is the largest of the islands, which is perhaps why it has the most offering in terms of food and accommodation. You’ll find luxurious 5 star resorts perfect for entertaining your guests at all times.

Topographically, Tenerife is quite unique in that it hosts the only active volcano in the Canary Islands, Mount Teide, which also happens to be the highest peak in Spain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the third largest oceanic volcano in the world. For a truly spectacular experience atop the volcano, book the ‘Sunset and Stars’ excursion, where you and your loved one will traverse the volcano in a cable car at sunset and enjoy a meal designed by two Michelin star chef Erlantz Gorostiza followed by stargazing. (www.volcanoteide.com)

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Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Abama Inspired by Moorish architecture, The Ritz-Carlton, Abama is an immense clifftop resort on the southwest coast of Tenerife with a rich bounty of luxurious amenities. With seven on-site pools, you barely even need to leave the resort to feel like you’ve experienced a holiday in the sun! Their offerings include 12 restaurants (two with Michelin stars), aluxury spa, world renowned golf course and an exclusive beach

Gran Hotel Bahía del Duque Resort Designed after a 19th century Spanish colonial village, the pastel pink and warm sunflower yellow facade of this glamorous resort stands out as a beautiful setting for your wedding or honeymoon.

The hotel has its own mini village with upscale shops, five outdoor

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for guests. This hotel is an absolute dream if you are coordinating a destination wedding as they have numerous venues and a coordinator on-site for the ceremony and reception. From an idyllic Persian Garden to a spacious luxe ballroom, beach club and promenade to a cliff-top terrace, your options for entertaining are practically endless. www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/spain/abama

pools, a full-service spa, stargazing observatory, manicured gardens and perhaps most importantly, direct access to the Playa del Duque beach promenade. You’ll make memories to last a lifetime as you celebrate amidst the gardens and waterfalls with your loved ones. www.thetaishotels.com/bahia-del-duque

DESTINATIONS

Puchero Canario

Papas Arrugadas

Frangollo

Food For Thought Canarian Cuisine is one-of-a-kind.

Influenced by the unique tastes of Africa, Europe and America, their delicious gastronomy is a refreshing blend of distinctive flavours. The sultry archipelago is famous for their tasty wrinkled potatoes, traditionally known as Papas Arrugadas con mojo. The small potatoes are usually boiled with their skin on, seasoned liberally with sea salt and then left to dry and wrinkle. You’ll usually find them served with the equally as famous mojo picón and mojo verde sauces.

It’s a simple dish with an incredible taste.

Puchero Canario is Canarian food at its best.

The hearty dish is made with everything from chickpeas and chicken, to chorizo, pork and maize. The traditional casserole exemplifies the quality and freshness of the locally grown ingredients and is the perfect comfort food for a quiet evening with your love.

For dessert, Frangollo is a simple but delicious option. The sweet dish includes raisins, almonds and cinnamon and is reminiscent of rice pudding.

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Don’t Miss: January/February: Dia de los Reyes Magos (Day of The Three Wise Men), Gran Canaria Epiphany is celebrated all over the island on January 5th, beginning with a visit from the Three Wise Men at the harbor of Santa Catalina. The wise men are greeted by the mayor and the townspeople who have come out for the spectacle. At night, enjoy a parade with extravagant floats.

March/April: Carnival, Tenerife The most ‘Brazilian’ of all the Spanish carnivals, the one in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the second largest preLent carnival in the world after Rio. It starts with a bang with the competition of the Carnival Queen, in which bedazzled candidates wearing more than a hundred kilos of costumery dance to begin the parade of Carnival. For the next 15 days, move to the rhythm and soak in the brilliant colors of the spectacular event as it twirls through the streets of Tenerife.

May/June: Bonfire Night of Saint John If you’ve come for a party, there’s nothing better than Bonfire Night in June to mark midsummer. Imagine tasty local barbecue, impressive fireworks displays, concerts and dusk-‘til-dawn parties throughout the islands with thousands of friendly Canarians. For the best celebrations, head to Lanzarote or Las Palmas.

July/August: International Jazz Festival, Gran Canaria & Puerto de la Cruz If you’re a fan of jazz, The Festival Internacional Canarias Jazz & Más Heineken is top-notch, bringing talent from around the globe for a groovy long weekend in July. In its 28th year, this annual festival offers three nights of live music in the public squares of Plaza de Santa Ana in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Plaza Europa in Puerto de la Cruz.

September/October: Visual Music Festival, Lanzarote The international Visual Music Festival has been held in Lanzarote each year since 1989 to fuse contemporary music with the island’s incredibly rich natural assets. For example, the festival takes place in two auditoriums deep in the caves of the island, which are acoustically ideal.

November/ December: Fiesta de la Virgen de la Concepción, El Hierro Every fourth year on the 8th of December, witness El Hierro’s moving celebration of their patron saint. The night before, Valverde’s streets are filled to the brim with excited locals enjoying Canarian cuisine and music as they follow a procession of dancers wearing traditional white and red dress and multi-colored hats as they carry banners that read, ‘Virgin of Kings.’

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Jewel of the Rockies The skiing capital of America, the charming mountain village of Aspen, Colorado offers plenty for thrill-seekers and culture lovers alike

By Kristie Landing

E

quipped with timber lodge hotels, cosy knitwear boutiques and contemporary art galleries, Aspen, Colorado emerges as a jewel in the snowy Rockies. A long-time favourite of many as a honeymoon ski resort, it has not lost its appeal by becoming overly touristy. In fact, Aspen remains a stunning escape for those who love vigorous outdoor activity, fresh air and a richness of culture and authenticity. As far as the terrain goes, the slopes range from beginner to expert double blacks, so no matter what level you are, there is a mountain for you to conquer. For non-skiers, the spa and food scene are world-class, so rest assured, you won’t feel left out

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of the fun! That’s really what makes Aspen stand out time and again: it’s a perfect cocktail of stimulating conditions, a flair for artistry and delectable cuisine. Plus, it is undeniably beautiful and romantic!

Silver Lining

A former mining town founded in 1879, Aspen was originally named Ute City after the Ute Native American tribe who resided there. It experienced an initial boom due to silver mining and grew to a population of over 15,000 residents. As a result, many incredible buildings of today like the Wheeler Opera House and Hotel Jerome were erected during this period by wealthy entrepreneurs.

After silver was demonetized in 1930, Aspen’s population declined, but it began to be seen as a fantastic ski destination with people all over the world flocking to the powdery slopes. Today, you can tour the silver mines, wearing hard hats and discovering the shining mineral deep within the earth.

DESTINATIONS

Ski and Believe

With four separate mountains linked by one free shuttle bus service, you have plenty of slope to choose from in Aspen. Having been to all of them, we have a special place in our heart for Buttermilk, particularly if you are at a more novice level or want to warm up before you hit the other slopes. There are plenty of green and blue runs plus some more hidden slopes that are usually beautifully powdery because not as many people know about them. In fact, the ‘Tiehack’ side of Buttermilk offers long gorgeous black runs that often haven’t been groomed!

If you’re looking for something a little more challenging after tackling Buttermilk, head on over to Aspen Mountain where delicious long runs are on the menu. Find yourself skiing the same paths that once hosted World Cup finals and follow the snow-cat towed Oasis Champagne Bar as you head down the mountain! Exhausted after a fun day, don’t miss having a bit of aprèsski drinks and truffle fries at Ajax Tavern at the base of the mountain. Be sure to grab a seat outside by the heaters and watch as fellow skiers come careening down the slippery white slopes!

Culture Trip

A true highlight for culture lovers is the arts scene in Aspen. There are numerous incredible galleries showcasing Western, modern and fine art and the Aspen Art Museum is world class. Experience contemporary masterpieces in the historic red brick building that was once the first hydroelectric power plant west of the Mississippi River. In addition, the shopping is next to none with haute couture brands like Prada and Gucci alongside ski-wear shops, bespoke pottery and local crafts to bring home to your loved one. (aspenartmuseum.org)

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Where to stay: The Little Nell Step into world-renowned hotel, The Little Nell for a true taste of alpine glamour. The five star, five diamond hotel is ski-in, ski-out, meaning you can literally strap on the boots and be on a chairlift in five minutes flat. They offer two restaurants and three cosy bars with tantalizing and artful cuisine so that even in a blizzard, you’ll be well taken care of. Should you start to feel a bit of altitude sickness, take comfort in relaxing in the heated pool and jacuzzi while your pooch is pampered with a ‘Puppy Jet Lag Kit’ and luxury pet amenities. As for planning your big day, The Little Nell Events Team will bring your dream wedding to life--whether that is at the bottom of the mountain, or at the top! Give yourself the best and let your white winter wonderland wedding come into fruition with the help of The Little Nell. (www.thelittlenell.com)

Hotel Jerome Step inside the Western chic Hotel Jerome, a landmark in Aspen built in 1889 that has just gone through an enticing revamp. Its history is as fascinating as its clientele, who over the years have included legends like John Wayne, Gary Cooper and Hunter S. Johnson. The J-Bar is an excellent stop for an upscale burger and Prohibition-era spiked shake known as the ‘Aspen Crud.’ Don’t miss their mountain spa, the perfect place to après-ski.

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Food For Thought Aspen is the place for top notch cuisine in Colorado, hosting an array of world-class restaurants in every genre. Whether you’re in the mood for steak or sushi, vegan or pancakes, you will find your fill in Aspen. If you’re looking for a homegrown favourite, try Colorado lamb, praised the world over for its juicy texture and rich flavour. Served as ribs, chops, rack or shank, Colorado lamb can be accompanied by any number of sides. Some local favorites include polenta, rutabaga and grits.

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Don’t Miss: January/February: Wintersköl: For the past 68 years, Aspen has played host to a fantastic four day cultural festival called Wintersköl. Always held in January, the celebration of winter originally began to highlight Aspen’s unique Nordic lifestyle. Today, it includes ice sculpture carving, a dog costume competition, concerts, fireworks and more.

March/April: Bud Light Spring Jam: The premier spring festival in the Rockies returns for its 19th consecutive year with downtown concerts and parties on Aspen Snowmass.

Come out to compete in ski and snowboard competitions, or watch from the sidelines as the best of the best compete in categories like freestyle, speed and big air terrain park jumping.

There’s even a scavenger hunt adventure race that crosses all four mountains!

May/June: FOOD & WINE Classic: Experience three days of extraordinary culinary experiences with your loved one in what is surely the most romantic festival of the year. Hosted by FOOD & WINE magazine, the festival, in its 37th year brings renowned chefs, winemakers and spirit experts for demonstrations, seminars and parties in Aspen.

July/August: Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration: Get into the summer swing of things with Aspen’s traditional Independence Day celebration! Enjoy a parade, bicycle rodeo, concerts, carnival games, BBQ and so much more as you celebrate this patriotic holiday.

September/October: Aspen Filmfest: A week of fantastic films shown at Aspen Film in this non-competitive festival is a cozy way to spend some time snuggling up next to your beloved. Whether you’re interested in narrative or documentary features, the dynamic mix of films chosen from the international festival circuit is sure to delight.

November/ December: 12 Days of Aspen: Celebrate all the splendor of the Christmas season as downtown Aspen comes to life with holiday activities. Don’t miss all the special treats, concerts and a visit from Santa! It’s the perfect time to be with family, old and new.

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Visit Toronto: A Suits Inspired Guide Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex and the former actress best known for her role as Rachel Zane in the hit US legal drama Suits, set up home in Toronto before making the switch to Kensington Palace after her engagement to Prince Harry. We set off to explore the city with a little help from her Suits co-stars‌ Words by Claire Bloomfield

S

et on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario, the cosmopolitan Canadian city of Toronto is often described as the most diverse destination in the world. Home to more than 200 ethnic groups and with over 140 languages spoken, when it comes to truly global cities, Toronto takes the cake.

An eight-hour flight from London, the provincial capital of Ontario also frequently serves as a body double for major US cities like New York. Hit legal drama series Suits is just one of the thousands of TV shows that have made this city their home.

Toronto has over 140 recognised neighbourhoods each oozing a unique personality and like the Big Apple, the city is rich in cultural landmarks and embraces green space. However, despite their similarities – and even yellow cabs – it’s Toronto that takes our vote…

Explore and Play

The CN Tower is one of Canada’s most recognizable and celebrated icons standing high above Toronto’s skyline.

The viewing deck spanning two levels has floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows and a glass floor. Beat the queues and arrive in time for a delicious breakfast at the bistro and it’s likely you’ll have the place to yourselves. The CN Tower’s 360 Restaurant offers a fine dining experience ideal for you and your loved one. Complete with breathtaking revolving views of Toronto, it is arguably one of the most romantic spots in the city. (www.cntower.ca) A trip to the 200-year-old St. Lawrence Market just wouldn’t be the same without tasting a peameal bacon sandwich – and don’t forget the honey and mustard - from the world renowned Carousel Bakery. It’s adorned with glowing reviews from locals, visitors and celebrities and we hear

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even HRH Princess Margaret has been known to indulge during a previous royal tour. (www.stlawrencemarket.com) A hectic central hub in Downtown, it’s easy to get lost in the crowds of Yonge-Dundas Square where the billboards and neon lights surround the swarms of people in Toronto’s most famous intersection. (www.ydsquare.ca) You will need to pick up a map on your way in if you plan to shop ‘til you drop at the Eaton Centre mall in downtown. It attracts more than 50 million visitors annually and the range of stores – no less than 230 – are almost as impressive as the stunning glass galleria and the vaulted glass ceilings.

DESTINATIONS

Wood Sculpture at Woodbine Beach

The collection of designer boutiques, storied fashion houses and posh eateries at Bloor-Yorkville has earned a reputation for being one of the most ritzy shopping experiences in Canada. Even if your budget doesn’t quite stretch that far, it’s a great spot for people watching and celeb spotting, too. (www.bloor-yorkville.com) The Distillery District, an internationally acclaimed village of brick-lined streets and dozens of vibrantly restored Victorian Industrial buildings, have become somewhat of an arts and culture hub in Toronto. Although the options for dinner are overwhelming in this neighbourhood, two in particular tick all of the boxes. El Catrin is a popular authentic tapas style Mexican restaurant with a lively atmosphere, plus a heated and spacious outdoor seating area. You’ll

feel like you’ve been transported to Paris when you visit the upscale modern French inspired restaurant Cluny Bistro with its chic rustic décor, wall of vintage wines and a fresh bread station. (www.thedistillerydistrict.com) You’ll find the much-talked about ‘Beaches’ just 20 minutes east of Downtown Toronto, proving even a city-bound honeymoon can include relaxation on sandy shores if you know where to look. All with a laidback resort-like feel, the likes of Hanlan’s Point, Woodbine Beaches and strolls along the boardwalk prove to be a popular pastime even with locals.

For more information and to plan your trip visit, www.destinationcanada.com and www. seetorontonow.com

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Where to stay: Omni King Edward Hotel Set in the heart of Downtown, the Omni King Edward Hotel was the first luxury hotel in Toronto when it was built back in 1903. Over 115 years later it’s still considered a legendary fixture in the city. This landmark hotel, whose previous guests include the likes of Elvis Presley, Britney Spears, The Beatles and Ernest Hemingway, was recently restored to its former palace-like grandeur in a $40-million refresh. With 301 luxury guest rooms and suites, plus a VIP Royal Club level offering and a full service spa, there are touches of regency throughout the Omni King Edward Hotel. The elegantly appointed and spacious rooms average 350sq ft with a regal décor consisting of red, muted greys and gold.

The hotel’s Consort Bar, which has also featured in an episode of Suits, is reminiscent of an English aristocrats’ club and the intuitive and personal service here will make you feel like one. Before sealing her departure from Suits, Meghan Markle’s character, lawyer Rachel Zane, tied the knot with her on screen beau Mike Ross played by Patrick J. Adams pre-royal wedding. That glittering evening ceremony took place under a canopy of delicate fairy lights in the 500sq ft Crystal Ballroom of the Omni King Edward Hotel and unsurprisingly, the ornate 17th floor room has become one of the most sought-after venues in the city. Rooms start from £159 per night.) Interestingly, the fictional home of Suits’ law firm Zane Specter Litt is less than a 10-minute stroll away across at the BayAdelaide Centre

Meghan Markle’s go-to Toronto spots Meghan Markle made Toronto her home for almost seven years whilst filming popular legal drama Suits and rumour has it that the Duchess of Sussex made a top-secret solo getaway back to the city last month. Here are three Toronto locations we hear she loves…

W SKINCARE, 67 Portland Street www.wskincare.ca COCKTAIL BAR, 923 Dundas Street West www.hoofcocktailbar.com HOLT RENFREW, 50 Bloor Street West www.holtrenfrew.com

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Suits Stars Sarah Rafferty Does Toronto feel like home after filming almost eight seasons there?

“We live in Los Angeles and Toronto but we’re in Toronto a little bit longer than LA each year.

It’s been a real gift. My experience here is always kid-centric but there’s something for everyone in Toronto.”

How do you like to spend your time off in Toronto?

“One of my favourite places to go with my family is the Evergreen Brick Works. It’s a reclaimed old abandoned brick factory that has turned into a large green space for the community.

There’s a great food scene there over the weekend when all of the trucks pull up, too.”

Gabriel Macht Suits is focused around a major New York law firm but we hear you film the show in Toronto…

“We shot the pilot in New York and a couple of days during season one and two, but we shoot everything in Toronto now. We’re running out of streets that look like New York. It would be nice to go back down and shoot there for a weekend.”

Have you settled into life in Toronto?

“Yes, we’ve been here for a while and the kids are in school. There’s a great theatre district so we see the shows that come into town.

They’ve got every sports team imaginable here, hockey, basketball, baseball etc, so we’ll also go to a game here and there. There are some beautiful parks, too and we like going for picnics or following the hiking trails.”

Food For Thought Few Canadian dishes have made it across the pond, but the delectable creation Poutine has broken through the barriers. The dish composed of crispy fries, drenched in rich gravy and topped with cheese curds and various meats such as pulled pork and bacon, is the perfect comfort food.

Several culinary delights find their roots in French cuisine. One of the more popular French - Canadian dishes is Tourtière. The flaky pie is typically filled with ground pork or beef and a sprinkling of herbs and spices.

For dessert the Saskatoon Berry Pie is a simple but delicious option. Saskatoons resemble blueberries, but are closely related to apples and have a sweet nutty almond flavour; it is Canadian food at its best.

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Don’t Miss: January / February: The Toronto Light Festival Illuminating the winter nights with remarkable works from local and international light artists.

The Toronto Light Festival beautifully lights up the Distillery Historic District, transforming the scenic neighbourhood into a large open-air galley. Partake in this beautiful visual journey with your love.

March/April: ComiCon Calling all comic book fans and superhero buffs, ComiCon Toronto awaits you! Enjoy a three day celebration of comic book culture, including everything from sci-fi to anime and gaming.

With over 400 exhibitors and thousands of fans gathered into one place it’s sure to be fun-filled event!

May/June: Tastemaker Toronto The finest chefs and cuisine connoisseurs in Toronto come together for two days to celebrate delicious food and drink. The delectable event takes place at the iconic Evergreen Brickworks; indulge in a plethora of unique collaborations and assorted dishes.

July/August: Caribbean Carnival A vivacious explosion of Caribbean music, cuisine, culture and performing arts! The ‘Caribana’ festival is a month-long celebration, spreading to all corners of the city. Locals feast on Caribbean delicacies, tents host comedians and storytellers and masqueraders show off their colourful costumes as they march along Lake Shore Boulevard in the parade.

September/October: Toronto Film Festival The globally renowned film festival brings some of the world’s most cutting-edge movies and film stars to the city. Join the hundreds of cinephiles, locals and visitors as they gather together for this star-studded event.

November/ December: Toronto Christmas Market Toronto’s Distillery District recreates the charm and magic of a traditional Christmas market. As one of the top 10 holiday markets in the world, the magnificent occasion doesn’t disappoint. Catch a glimpse of the city’s largest real Christmas trees, try delicious festive food and drink and purchase homemade Christmas ornaments.

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A Mediterranean Wonder HVAR, CROATIA

By Eleonora Tucci

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ndescribably beautiful scenery and endless surprises await as you dive into the Croatian escape of Hvar!

An incredible destination to discover, Hvar is an enchanting island which will keep you captivated with its sandy beaches, lavender fields and vibrant towns.

The outstanding beauty of this island lies in its variety of surroundings, perfect for a couple who is looking to embrace every corner of this Dalmatian oasis. Hvar is a quintessentially Croatian region perfectly designed for a bespoke wedding or honeymoon. Sail off on an excursion to the paradisiacal Pakleni Islands or enjoy the colourful cosmopolitan life of Hvar town; there are gems hidden everywhere around this picturesque island. Let yourself be swept away by the Mediterranean foliage, which will be a dreamy backdrop to your romantic escape. Venture onto the pristine sandy beaches of Zavala and let your senses awake, as a soft breeze dances through the pine trees.

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DESTINATIONS

A Romantic Getaway

Capture all the beauty and romance of the awe-inspiring island as you immerse yourself in luxurious comfort and historical charm. Sunčani Hvar, an exclusive hotel collection of Croatia inspires couples to unwind on their unique properties. The incredible team dedicated and passionate about making dreams come to life will walk you through the preparations of your special wedding celebration, or simply make sure you have an unforgettable stay!

An unmissable royal sojourn, Palace Elizabeth is an exquisite five-star Sunčani heritage hotel opening summer 2019. Nestled in the city centre of Hvar, it presides over the scenic landscape of the marina and the charming idyllic town. It is truly a perfect setting, desired by many couples who love a touch of decadent beauty.

The site dates back to the 13th century and is dedicated to the beloved Austrian Empress Sisi. Not only is it an authentic location of ancient memories, it is also in close proximity to eye-opening landmarks. Discover Venetian and Austrian architecture, as you journey to discover the hotel’s precious surroundings.

Palace Elizabeth is a remarkable place to stay for a honeymoon that you will cherish forever. Composed of 45 luxury suites, delight yourself with seafront or city views, with a fresh sea breeze ready to relax you. Plan a pampering spa day with your love or set off to discover the rare cityscape where delicious authentic cuisine awaits.

A Wine Journey

Discover the winemaking region, set in the precious coastal area of Jelsa, as you immerse yourself in the sensational colours and aromas of the lush vineyards. A romantic setting for a honeymoon, Vina Tomić wineries are a perfect destination for a special day out. Request a wine tasting tour and ensure a heavenly experience, along with the discovery of ancient traditions and alluring tastes. Stumble upon an elegant Roman-inspired wine cellar. The unique location, adorned as an ancient Roman dining room will help you escape from reality and step into a world of history and stone décor. Complete your secret escape with a taste of the best wines from Croatia and bring back home a trunk full of marvellous fruity flavours and precious memories.

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DESTINATIONS

Majestic

Morocco

The sunset over the Atlantic. The tip of a red sand dune. Lanterns and moonlight illuminating the way. The delicate scent of roses and orange blossoms filling the air‌ Explore New Horizons

M

orocco is a land of magic and romance, transporting you to a place that feels like something out of a storybook.

Without question, it provides the perfect location for an unforgettable wedding. From stunning riads to posh hotels and resorts, Morocco provides the epitome of elegance for your wedding. You may choose a rooftop terrace with the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains or perhaps a walk down the aisle in a lush garden is more your style. Maybe you would prefer a private riad, with exquisite tile work and beautiful carvings as the location for your big day. Wherever you choose, you will discover a warm welcome for you and your guests.

Celebration in Morocco

Moroccans love to celebrate, and a Moroccan wedding is no different. You may wish to include their tradition of donning multiple brightly colored takchitas, adorned with glittering gold and jewels, as you are carried around the room while seated in an ammria. You might even indulge in the tradition of a threeday party, which begins with collecting the bride and escorting her with a parade of guests to the wedding location. With live music, delicious food, and plenty of fanfare, Moroccan weddings are over the top in the best way possible!

With its richness of culture and diverse landscapes, Morocco is also ideal for a honeymoon. There are certain must-see attractions that you should put on your bucket list as you wander through the stunning gateway of Africa. Be sure to visit the mind-boggling winding Medina of Fez, taking in the sight of artisan workers in the souq crafting leather bags, weaving silk and selling chandeliers that sparkle as you pass by. Travel to Chefchaoen, Morocco’s Blue City, where the blue washed walls envelop you in their serene glow.

Spend a few nights in Rabat and Tangiers, sampling truly delectable cuisine like couscous and Kefta tagine as you take in the bustling city scene. To really spice up your holiday, enjoy a custom or group tour from Wanderlust Voyages for expert guidance to all the hidden gems Morocco has to offer. (www.wanderlustvoyagestravel.com)

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DESTINATIONS

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Awards

We have tracked down top-notch talent from all over the globe. From expert wedding planners to enchanting photographers, discover the wedding you have always dreamed of

WEDDING VENUE UK & IRELAND

The Byre at Inchyra, Perthshire

EUROPE

Hard Rock Hotel Davos, Switzerland

MEDITERRANEAN

Aegialis Hotel & Spa, Greece

AFRICA

Jan Harmsgat, South Africa

MIDDLE EAST

Le Royal Meridian Beach Resort, UAE

INDIAN OCEAN

Banyan Tree, Seychelles

UK & IRELAND

Bickleigh Castle, Devon

EUROPE

Fairmont Le Montreux Palace, Switzerland

MEDITERRANEAN

Suncani Hvar Hotels, Croatia

AFRICA

Diamonds Star of the East, Tanzania

MIDDLE EAST

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

INDIAN OCEAN

Adaaran Resorts, Maldives

WEDDING PLANNER UK & IRELAND

All Wrapped Up, Scotland

EUROPE

The Perfect Wedding Company, Gran Canaria

MEDITERRANEAN Med Weddings, Gibraltar

AFRICA

Piece Of Cake, South Africa

MIDDLE EAST

Lana Wedding Planner, Dubai

ASIA

Serendib Leisure Resorts, Sri Lanka

SOUTH ASIA

Super Duper Weddings, India

Amaya Resorts & Spa, Sri Lanka

SOUTH EAST ASIA

SOUTH EAST ASIA

Nightingales Wedding Planning, NSW

DWHA

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WIN

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WEDDING VENUE

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THE BYRE AT INCHYRA, SCOTLAND

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THE CARRIBEAN

The Odyssey Collection, Barbados

NORTH AMERICA

Weddings by Alexis, New England

THE CARIBBEAN

Lauren’s Bridal, Virgin Islands

DWHA

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HONEYMOON RESORT

WEDDING PLANNER

WORLDWIDE

WORLDWIDE

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FAIRMONT LE MONTREUX PALACE, SWITZERLAND

WIN

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THE CARIBBEAN

Secrets St James Montego Bay, Jamaica

NORTH AMERICA

St Regis Punta Minta, Mexico

AUSTRALIA

20

NORTH AMERICA

The Baker House 1650, New York

Crimson Hotels, Philippines

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Discovery Katika Plaza, Bali

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SOUTH ASIA

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THE PERFECT WEDDING COMPANY, GRAN CANARIA

CHAIRMAN’S CHOICE EUROPEAN WEDDING PLANNER

WORLDWIDE LUXURY RESORT

EXPERIENCE OF THE CARIBBEAN

CARIBBEAN HONEYMOON RESORT

BEST ISLAND RESORT

WORLDWIDE WEDDING PLANNER

Magical Weddings Denmark

Coco Collection Maldives

Dolphin Encounters Bahamas

Highbourne Cay Bahamas

Adaaran Resorts Maldives

Lana Wedding Planner Dubai

WEDDING VENUE ENGLAND

SERVICES TO THE WEDDING INDUSTRY

BEST CATERING COMPANY IRELAND

Amba Charing Cross London

Wedding Forex UK

The Yellow Door Northern Ireland

RESTAURANTS UK & IRELAND

Finnegan’s Wine Bar, Ireland

EUROPE

Laekjarbrekka, Iceland

MEDITERRANEAN

Ristorante Le Voglia, Italy

AFRICA

UK & IRELAND

UK & IRELAND

The Royal Horseguards, London

EUROPE

The Black Sheep Bistro, India

SOUTH EAST ASIA Le Normandie, Thailand

NORTH AMERICA Daniel, New York

THE CARIBBEAN

Luciano’s of Chicago, Bahamas

EUROPE

Nikola Smernic, Croatia

MEDITERRANEAN

MEDITERRANEAN

Bellevue Syrene, Sorrento

AFRICA

MIDDLE EAST

SOUTH ASIA

Sarah Legge, Surrey

The Omnia, Switzerland

MIDDLE EAST INDIAN OCEAN

Wanderlust Voyages Massachusettes

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo

Les Rochers, Seychelles

Crystal Charters

WORLDWIDE TOUR COMPANY

LUXURY HOTEL

6 Degrees South, Tanzania

Rhodes W1, Dubai

BEST CARIBBEAN YACHT CHARTERS

Ian Abdilla, Malta

AFRICA

Debbie Lourens, South Africa

MIDDLE EAST

Park Hyatt, Abu Dhabi

Bernard Richardon, UAE

INDIAN OCEAN

Gary Evan, Indonesia

SOUTH ASIA

A Day of Bliss, New York

SOUTH EAST ASIA

Picture This Studio, Cayman Islands

Vakkaru, Maldives

Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat, India

Seres Springs Resort & Spa, Indonesia

NORTH AMERICA

ASIA

NORTH AMERICA THE CARIBBEAN

SOUTH AMERICA Marcelo Silva, Brazil

Wellington Hotel, New York

THE CARIBBEAN Carlisle Bay, Antigua DWHA

WIN

NE

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RHODES W1, DUBAI

WIN

NE

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THE OMNIA, SWITZERLAND

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER WORLDWIDE

WIN N

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WORLDWIDE

18

LUXURY HOTEL

20

WORLDWIDE

20

18

RESTAURANTS

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SARAH LEGGE, SURREY UK

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PLANNING Choosing your photographer for the big day is a daunting, yet necessary task. Let us help your decision with our ‘Lens of Love’ feature highlighting incredible wedding photographers from around the world

Lens of LOVE ...page 152 DID YOU KNOW? As a symbol of fertility and luck, newlyweds in Holland plant a pine tree outside their home

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Encounters

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Lets Get Married in Italy 1. Italian Love Stories

SICILY “Luxury Services tailored to individual needs from small intimate gatherings to large and lavish affairs. The perfectly planned, chic and amazing Italian weddings and events in Sicily, please contact us!” (luxuryweddingsicily.com)

7. Marry Me in Tuscany TUSCANY “With my local knowledge of where to stay, what to see and where to eat, you’ll be able to make the most of your stay in the area. Being a wedding planner in Siena especially is a privilege and I truly enjoy sharing my experience and expertise with my clients.” (marrymeintuscany.co.uk)

9. Is Morus Relais

LAKE ISEO AND PUGLIA

SARDINIA

“Whether you prefer a bucolic wedding ceremony overlooking the water or an authentic Italian styled dinner among the olive trees or the wine yards; our international staff will assist and advise you through the whole creating process.” (lifeinitaly.com)

“Choose from 8 prestigious Villas with a patio and private garden, looking out over the beach or set between the trees and flowers of the park. Choosing a villa means enjoying exclusive freedom matched with the pleasure of being pampered by the hotel’s services.” (en.ismorus.it)

2. Amoretti AMALFI COAST AND LAKE COMO “Get married in Italy in a venue that is magical and has natural beauty. Amoretti wedding in Italy, create unforgettable moments celebrating your undying love on Italian soil.” (amoretti.co.uk)

4. Sanda Pandza Events ROME “Each event has its own story to tell. Knowing how to listen to it and translate it into a real fairytale is our mission. SP Events is able to design and create events of all kinds; in each of our events, the goal is always the same: to impress.” (sandapandza.events)

3. Terra Events

3. Italy Bride and Groom Weddings

VENICE

CLIENTO COAST

“Our teams ensure that all the right skills are brought in to deliver experiences that enhance attendee engagement and increase brand awareness. Our creativity, local knowledge and abundant variety of resources will result in a superior guest experience and a measurable ROI of the event.” (terraevents.com)

“Italy Bride and Groom Weddings is a wedding planning specialist on Italy’s stunning Cliento Coast. A neighbour to the Amalfi, the Cliento Coast has been kept a well guarded secret by the Italians...and for good reason!” (italybrideandgroomweddings.com)

10. Tuscan Wedding Cakes

4. The Different Twins

TUSCANY

LAKE GARDA

“Melanie Secciani, the artisan behind Tuscan wedding cakes offers luxury, one-of-a-kind cake designs that reflect the love and magic of your special day. Custom, elegant, whimsical, ornate, elaborate or sophisticated, imagines your wedding cake design and it can be yours.” (tuscanweddingcakes.com)

“The Different Twins plan weddings in some of Italy’s most spectacular locations. Whatever destination, budget and special requests; our professional team is here to help.” (thedifferenttwins.com) 128

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PLANNING

Serene Sardinia On the sandy shores of the sundrenched Italian island, experience true relaxation at the Hotel Is Morus Relais

H

otel Is Morus Relais is a jewel of a property waiting to be explored for your wedding or honeymoon. Nestled just 7km outside of Pula, the property is set within a lush natural park on the Mediterranean, in a Sardinian oasis known for its languorous ‘six month summers.’ As far as the eye can see, the green bounty of gardens merges with the sparkling cerulean sea, providing endless panoramic views of paradise. Inside the rooms are just as dazzling, with plenty of endearing options to accommodate your guests and make you feel like royalty on holiday.

Authentic Sardinian Hospitality

The wonderfully warm hospitality at Is Morus Relais will instantly make you feel at ease as you are led to your room, which is filled with traditional Sardinian furniture and draped in richly printed fabrics.

As you step out on your balcony, the salty smell of the sea greets your nose and you sigh...what a beautiful place to say ‘I do!’

In addition to rooms and suites in the hotel, you can also rent one of the eight prestigious villas on the property for even more space and longer stays. If you’re on your honeymoon, we’d suggest opting for butler service so that you don’t have to lift a finger while on the holiday of a lifetime. Of course, wherever you are, you should make use of the indulgent amenities. Take a swim in the pool, visit the on-site wellness center for a massage, linger in the Turkish bath or even smoke a

“While destination wedding planning can be a challenge, the wedding planning team at Is Morus Relais is more than ready to help you through every stage in the process, bringing to life a memorable and breathtaking event.” cigar in the specially designated cigar room. There’s a golf course, beachside activities, restaurants, tennis courts and special dinner packages so that you can savour a private dinner on the beach, in the park, or even in the pool. Go ahead and spoil yourself and your loved one, you deserve it!

Weddings

Experience the glow of the morning sun amidst the abundant natural vegetation, surrounded by your loved ones as you say your vows.

While destination wedding planning can be a challenge, the wedding planning team at Is Morus Relais is more than ready to help you through every stage in the process, bringing to life a memorable and breathtaking event.

From the layout of the tables to the sumptuous floral arrangements, live music choices and a custom menu, they consider every last detail to create a truly enchanting wedding. After the garden ceremony is over, the guests can move to drinks at the reception area held on the terrace overlooking the sea. The happy couple is then offered a ‘dream night’ in a Prestige or Junior Suite room, the perfect way to top off the most magical day. www.en.ismorus.it/relais-en WWW.DWHA.CO.UK

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Sanda Pandza Events “Each event has its own story to tell. Being able to listen to our clients and translate their stories into a real fairy tale, that is our mission.” - Sanda

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he overwhelming beauty of Sanda Pandza weddings stems from a complete dedication to true professionalism, a bespoke attention to detail and the warm personality of Sanda. Founder and company namesake, Croatian-born Sanda moved to Rome in 1991 to pursue a career in art and fashion, eventually landing at Maison Fendi. In 2001, she founded her own business while simultaneously collaborating as a Wedding & Event Manager at the Odescalchi Castle in Bracciano. Within a few years, her business was booming and Sanda was being called in from around the world to plan prestigious events and internationally renowned marriages including to Hollywood A-listers Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes. In 2012, she founded the Association WIP - Wedding Italian Professionals and became the producer of the WIP Channel.

Due to her worldwide connections, SP Events are experts at planning destination weddings, so no matter where you are you can experience the best!

Tailor-Made Couture Weddings

There is no limit to what SP Events can create for you. If you are seeking someone to take care of every last step, they are there to make life a breeze. The complete service begins with a meeting, discussion of the project, wishes, budget and concerns. Around the world, SP Events sources everything from the venue to banqueting, floral designer, photographer, music and entertainment, open bar, transfer and hotel. They even spend time looking for the small embellishments and personal touches that will make the event truly special. During the planning process, the client has the opportunity to choose between several proposals and each plan can be tailored as they desire. However, if you are someone who wants just a little advice, SP Events also offers a consulting service where they will provide a full organizational schedule with steps. In Sanda’s own words, “The world is our stage on which we create your masterpiece. The most beautiful scenery that needs to be discovered is a perfect setting for an unforgettable event.”

Creative Abundance

Picture your wedding in an Italian palace, a castle full of history, the Tuscan hills, a sparkling sandy beach or an exclusive private mountain chalet...SP Events dares you to dream when it comes to possible locations and venues.

Your wedding should be as creative and exuberant as you

can imagine and no matter where you are in the world, SP Events will cater to your needs. According to Sanda, “The destination wedding is a journey of love for those who wish to discover and amaze.”

With an impeccable research team and partnerships with international vendors, you can rest assured you are in great hands. Their expertise at planning all kinds of events, from ceremonies to rehearsal dinners and even fashion shows means that they will ensure your guests have an incredible time in every aspect of your wedding. SP Events even goes so far as to help you plan excursions like personalized tours, themed entertainment and any other service requested by their clients.

“Everything is in constant evolution: fashion, traditions and customs. We can find ourselves in different places, always meeting new people; we can express ourselves through classic or modern styles and enrich our lives with new experiences, growing day by day. And, in all this time, however short or long that is, we are always perfectly conscious that our real customer will always be the same: Love.” www.sandapandza.events

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Tuscan Wedding Cakes

PLANNING

A Sweet Way to Say ‘I Love You’

N

othing says weddings like a luscious and enchanting cake! Time and again, luxury wedding cake designer Melanie Secciani has inspired brides all around Italy with her delightful sugary confections. The delicate artistry attributed to her artisanal work brings worldwide attention and after seeing her exquisite creations, we perfectly understand why! Many brides choose Italy, and more specifically Tuscany, as the location for their special day and they cannot complete the planning without one of Melanie’s delicious and glamorous cakes.

Sweet Creations

Tuscan Wedding Cakes is a cake parlour unlike any other in the heart of Florence. An exclusive jewellery box of sweet creations, you won’t know how to begin choosing one! In fact, every cake is custom designed to convey your unique wedding aura, so you know yours will be one-of-a-kind.

Melanie and her dedicated team have no limit when it comes to imagination and attention to details. In their workshop, they experiment with artistic techniques, from cascades of roses to lavish diamond decorations. They pay attention to

small details in every cake, whether they are creating a six feet tall piece adorned with handmade sugar flowers, or simply sprucing up a refined floral cupcake.

‘‘In fact, every cake is custom designed to convey your unique wedding aura, so you know yours will be one-of-a-kind.’’

Melanie’s focus on artistic beauty radiates from her majestic creations, with alluring tones of pastel pinks and golden details. The uniqueness exceeds any expectation, with exclusive delicate flavours and masterful crafting. Her cakes will awaken your senses and create memories that will last a lifetime. For a special wedding in a fairytale castle or a celebration in a splendid Italian villa, a personalized design by Melanie Secciani will be the cherry on top! www.tuscanweddingcakes.com

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PLANNING

reasons to experience the

Magic of Dolphin Encounters 1.

D

WHA’s Chairman’s Choice Award-Winning company, Dolphin Encounters brings smiles to the faces of visitors the world over at their stunning private property at the unspoilt Blue Lagoon Island in Nassau, The Bahamas. From swimming with dolphins in sparkling warm water to playful interactions with friendly sea lions, Dolphin Encounters puts the care and joy in every visit, whether you are coming for your honeymoon, engagement or wedding. If you’ve already had the special experience with the dolphins, try your hand at fun excursions like a segway tour of the Blue Lagoon, snorkeling with stingrays or an eco-nature hike through the wilderness. All of these are facilitated by well-trained Dolphin Encounters staff, so you will rest assured that the experiences will be fun and educational. Plus, there is always the opportunity to bask in the warm sunshine on their pristine sandy beaches! In fact, many couples opt to get married on Blue Lagoon Island, creating unforgettable weddings with Dolphin Encounters there to help plan the whole event.

GET IN TOUCH dolphinencounters.com 1-866-918-9932 | 1-242-363-1003

Owned and operated by a local family, they are the oldest dolphin facility in Nassau so you can rest assured that you are in good hands. Since they opened in 1989, Dolphin Encounters has been visited by 2.5 million people and has been repeatedly voted one of the top attractions in the Bahamas. Prepare to have a fun, authentic and truly educational Bahamian experience!

2.

The facility is all-natural, meaning that they have created a natural seawater lagoon where their rescued sea creatures breed and thrive. It is a very uplifting and positive environment reached by a scenic boat trip from the mainland aboard the Dolphin Encounters catamaran.

3.

Blue Lagoon Island is secluded and private, so you can have a unique experience unlike anywhere else in the world. Dive into the turquoise blue waters, gaze up into the natural coconut trees and enjoy the wildlife as you happily make waves with the dolphins.

4.

No matter what level of swimmer you are, the team will make sure you have a memorable time as your dreams of meeting a dolphin come true! They have a program for special needs guests as well and work closely with the Make-A-Wish foundation.

5.

You might recognize some of their dolphins and sea lions as stars of the silver screen. Several have been in movies, commercials and television. Remember the 1996 hit “Flipper?” Flipper was played by three different dolphins from Dolphin Encounters!

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DWHA || MARCH / APRIL

Don’t Forget Your Wedding Planner We’ve proudly selected ten of the best wedding planners from the most beautiful counties around the UK to help you plan your special day

CAMBRIDGESHIRE WE SAY: “A vibrant country situated in the East of England, Cambridgeshire is the ideal place for a short picturesque break with your love. The idyllic county is home to a plethora of activities, sights and delightful landmarks” THEY SAY: It’s the perfect place for culture, adventure and family fun. Explore the beautiful surroundings you know from The Crown, Granchester and The Theory of Everything for yourself”(visitcambridge.org) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Discover a treasure trove of world history and art with a tour of the Fitzwilliam Museum - Treat yourself with a spending spree at the Grafton shopping centre - Visit the Mumford Theatre and delight in their special performances, concerts and event

ESSEX WE SAY: “A county of contrasts, Essex couples contemporary attractions with the splendour of ancient history. Be sure to see the history landmarks like Audley End House and Gardens and newly created architectural masterpieces such as Firstsite in Colchester” THEY SAY: Essex is a remarkable collection of the old and the new, a rich tapestry of everything that makes Britain great. Combining modern facilities, fascinating towns and villages and ever-changing coastlines, Essex is the perfect short break” (visitessex.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Visit the impressive Firstsite Gallery, in the heart of the cultural quarter. Designed by Rafael Viñoly, the modern art gallery run exhibitions run all year - Observe of over 270 wildlife species with your love at the Colchester Zoo, one of the top 20 zoos in the world - The Colchester Castle Museum is a must visit. Home to biggest Norman Keep in Europe is exciting displays and activities make for a wonderful day out

KENT WE SAY: “Known as the Garden of England, Kent is the oldest county and is filled to the brim with history, from the 1,400 year old Canterbury Cathedral to the nearly 17,000 listed buildings.

Its charming coastline offers seafood delights as well as plenty of places to say ‘I do’ overlooking the water” THEY SAY: “Our corner of England is one of the best UK destinations for a day trip or short break, with a multitude of things to do and places to see. We’ve got some of the best beaches in Europe - voted by Lonely Planet - as well as art galleries, elegant stately homes, romantic getaways, fun-filled family attractions, and more than 4,000 of exhilarating foot and cycle trails” (www.visitkent.co.uk) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Visit Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn - The White Cliffs of Dover are a stunning sight on a clear day - Admire masterpieces by JMW Turner, Tracy Emin and Antony Gormley at the Turner Contemporary art gallery

DON’T FORGET YOUR WEDDING PLANNER

MIDLOTHIAN WE SAY: “Just south of Edinburgh lies the awe-inspiring landscape of the Midlothian County. Step outside of the city to relax and embrace nature as you hike through acres of parkland. Explore historical monuments in a majestic surrounding” THEY SAY: Whether you want to uncover Scotland’s fascinating past, try adrenaline-fuelled activities or enjoy a good dose of fresh air in wide open spaces, you won’t be short of things to see and do in Midlothian” (visitsuffolk.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Visit the breathtaking Rosslyn Chapel for a guided tour through the unique stonework of a precious historical site - Discover the story of the coal miners of Scotland at the National Mining Museum - For outdoor enthusiasts, hike through the Pentland Hills for a stunning view of Edinburgh

NORFOLK WE SAY: “Active Norfolk is the ideal place to get moving in the great outdoors for your honeymoon or holiday. Hike through the vast forests or visit Great Yarmouth, one of the top seaside resorts in Britain. If Norfolk is good enough to be the Queen’s home (Sandringham Estate), then it’s good enough for us” THEY SAY: “Norfolk is a great all-year holiday, offering over 90 miles of unspoilt coastline, beautiful countryside, the unique Broads National Park, forests and heathland, internationally important nature reserves, picturesque market towns, amazing bird watching and fabulous seaside resorts” (www.visitnorfolk.co.uk) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Visit the Grade I Nelson Monument, built as a tribute to Britain’s greatest naval hero - Zipline through the tallest trees in the country in the Breckland and Thetford Forest - Walk through the serene cloisters of Norwich Cathedral, constructed in 1096

SUFFOLK

A friendly, professional & reliable way to plan your perfect wedding day in Suffolk, Essex & beyond.

The Savvy Wedding Planner is here to help you plan your special day in any way.

07453 571541

savvyweddingplanner@outlook.com

savvyweddingplanner.co.uk

WE SAY: “Nestled on the east coast of England, Suffolk is characterised by its magnificent views and breathtaking natural beauty. Brimming with charming villages and charismatic towns, it beckons to tourists and visitors from around the world” THEY SAY: The fabulous attractions and great days out in Suffolk mean you can do as much as you want, or as little. Sometimes, in a place this rich and beautiful, just being is pleasure enough.” (visitsuffolk.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Unwind by the shimmering waters of the Suffolk Coast, and observe the rare birds as they fly across the blue skies and majestic red deer as they graze on the lush landscapes - Wander down the medieval streets of Bury St. Edmunds and indulge in the assortment of vintage boutiques and modern cafés - Theatre-lovers are in for a treat, with the Ipswich Pulse and Spill Festival. Enjoy a variety of performances with your love

SURREY WE SAY: “One of the hypnotizing wonders of England, Surrey is home of lush forest land. Enclosed by a great number of counties this picturesque landscape stands out as being the most wooded region of Great Britain” THEY SAY: “Despite its location next to London, Surrey contains a great deal of mature woodland. Among its many notable beauty spots are Box Hill, Leith Hill, Frensham Ponds, Newlands Corner and Puttenham and Crooksbury Commons. It is the most wooded county in Great Britain, with 22.4% coverage. Box Hill has the oldest untouched area of natural woodland in the UK, one of the oldest in Europe.” (visitsurrey.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Superb view overlooking the summit of Box Hill - An art-based adventure at Watts Gallery in Artists’ Village - Take a romantic adventure on the scenic Virginia Water Lake

SUSSEX WE SAY: “Sussex is blessed with an expanse of stunning coastline and lively seaside cities, like the young and fun Brighton. Iconic towns such as Battle and Hastings share the land with the bewitching beauty of the white cliffs of Beachy Head” THEY SAY: “Spanning nearly 1500 sq miles, East and West Sussex boast over 100 miles of spectacular coastline, flanking the English Channel. Used as a point of invasion since Roman times, the coastline flourished during the Victorian era with the creation of many popular seaside resorts, such as Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings” (travelaboutbritain.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Battle of Hastings Abbey & Battlefield are a throwback to the place where the war was fought by the Saxons and Normans - For an amazing panoramic view over the South Downs, visit the Arundel Castle & Gardens - Spend an unforgettable weekend of fun at Worthing in East Sussex

WEST MIDLANDS WE SAY: “Home to several boroughs buzzing with life, the West Midlands is definitely worth your visit. Choose from plethora of activities, from museums and theatres trips to scenic walks and picnics on the lush landscapes” THEY SAY: “Looking for things to do in the West Midlands? The region is packed with dazzling theatres, colossal exhibition centres, Balti restaurants, and shiny shopping malls. With endless ancient woodlands, heaths, and wetlands to explore, it isn’t hard to see how this place inspired JRR Tolkien to write The Lord of the Rings” (visitengland.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Take a visit to Cadbury World and sample delicious chocolate treats - Brimming with fantastic pieces of contemporary art, the Herbert Art Gallery is ideal for an afternoon out with your love - The National Sea Life Centre is home to over 2000 wildlife creatures. Watch and observe the colourful schools of fish and other fascinating sea life

DON’T FORGET YOUR WEDDING PLANNER

YORKSHIRE WE SAY: “An eclectic mix of old and new traditions, the metropolitan county of Yorkshire, is a must visit for all generations.

Delight in the some of UK’s finest architecture, Victorian monuments and vibrant nightlife!”

THEY SAY: “England’s premier county for visitors, Yorkshire makes a great destination for country lovers, city visitors and costal watchers alike” (yorkshirenet.co.uk) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Hire a bicycle and discover the rolling hills and leaf forests of the Peak District National Park - Embrace tradition with a stroll through Doncaster Market, with over 400 stalls to explore, you’re sure to leave with a delicious treat and a special piece of memorabilia - Jameson’s Cafe & Tea Room located at the Sheffield Antiques Centre, is the perfect place for a romantic afternoon with your loved one

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DWHA || NOVEMBER / DECEMBER

BEAUTY

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The Lens of Love TOP 25 WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS OF THE WORLD

5 Reasons you Should Hire a Professional Photographer...

1.

Quality Guaranteed. They will ensure that your once in a lifetime moments are captured to perfection.

The little moments of your big day are memories you will cherish for a lifetime and show to your grandchildren, so make them count! For impeccable images you need a photographer who knows how to handle the camera and bring out the best quality and charm of your wedding.

2.

Hands-Free Celebration. Hiring a professional photographer means that your guests won’t have to spend all night snapping photos. You and they will be able to enjoy the special moments without worry. A professional will be able to move among you without disruption and will make sure that everyone is included in your photobook.

3.

Bespoke Artistry. Think of your wedding photographer as an artist. Your special day an enchanting creation that they will enhance with their creative eye. Let their years of experience assure you as they showcase the true essence of your extraordinary love.

4.

Reliability. When hiring a professional photographer, you are trusting them to capture the significant moments of your wedding. You do not need to chase them around overseeing that they are doing their tasks up to expectation. They will immerse themselves in the background as you shine through their lens.

5.

Dream Big. As you go about planning, make sure you have a professional who will go above and beyond to create the perfect setting for your inspiring shots. A top notch photographer with expertise will set the lighting, landscape and capture the quintessential moments that you will keep close to you for years to come.

Your special wedding day comes once in a lifetime and you need incredible photography to remember it by. For this reason, it is so essential for our future brides and grooms to have a remarkable photographer to capture the awe-inspiring blissful recollections of that romantic day. A professional photographer is a must when planning a perfect wedding and a precious element that will keep you dreaming of that magical event forever...

Blitzkneisser

AUSTRIA “We realized that in wedding photography it is perfect to work as a team and that we complement each other flawlessly. We capture emotions and images that tell stories even after years.” hochzeitsfotograf.tirol/en

Colin Vickers Wedding Photography

AUSTRIA “I love to photograph a wedding and to capture all those beautiful moments from one of the most romantic days of our lives.” drfoto.at

Ash Gardiner

BAHAMAS “You’ll have these photographs for the rest of your life to look back on the day that you married your soulmate.” ashgardiner.com

Addison Cumberbatch Weddings in Barbados

BARBADOS “I always strive to creates images that are emotive, classic and artistic; images that tell your story.” facebook.com/theaddisonn

Picture this Studios

CAYMAN ISLANDS “From conception to post-production, everything is custom and personal, with all images crafted to perfection.” picturethis.ky

Raw Shoots

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DWHA || MARCH / APRIL

COSTA RICA “We want to get to know you and want you to feel comfortable, relaxed and confident about our work.

When all of this happens we are more than sure that we can accomplish the best work ever.” rawshoots.com

Kyriakides Photo Cinema

Marlies Dekker Fotografie

PLANNING

CYPRUS “I have been a wedding photographer for more than 2 decades and captured countless of weddings over the years.

I do LOVE my work and I have my own style and way to capture my images.” costaskyriakides.com

NETHERLANDS “Love should be celebrated! The photos of the big day should represent the authenticity and pureness of your wedding experience. As a wedding photographer, I want to tell your personal story filled with love.” marliesdekkerfotografie.nl

Sai Digital Photography

Diana Nobre

ENGLAND “Letting things happen naturally and without force, Rohit captures those candid moments of emotion throughout the day, allowing each photograph to tell a story.” saidigital.co.uk

Lily Christina Photography

FINLAND “I always try to give a little more than I promise and do everything I can in the best possible way. I believe we will have fun together!” lilychristina.com

Michelle Lawson Photography

FLORIDA, USA “We invest our lives, our love, our souls - into every single wedding and photo session that we go to.” michellelawson.com

Falkenberg Photography

GERMANY “At the wedding, I accompany you throughout the day and capture all the important moments from the preparations to the wedding ceremony and celebration.” christina.falkenberg-photography.com

Derek Pickell Photography

GRENADA “With extensive experience in wedding, aerial, real estate, yacht, and portrait photography, Derek provides clients with images that exceed their expectations and which make their photos stand out above the crowd.” dpickellphotography.com

ManiSol Wedding

ITALY “Our aim is to craft the most personal, bespoke, unique memories of our couple’s special moments into photographs and films they will cherish forever.” manisolwedding.com

Alexey Kudrik Photography

ISRAEL “Each shot Alexey took was innovative and beautifully conceived, and he has captured all the joy and emotions of our special day in a truly unique and magical way.” kudrik.com

Tony’s Photo Studio

MALTA “Our mission statement is to provide high quality photography with a creative edge delivered with the best customer satisfaction.” tonysphotostudio.com

Dana Siles Photography

RHODE ISLAND “I simply love making people happy through photography and that is really my primary goal every day, whether I am out photographing my clients or in front of the computer working on their images.”

Danasiles.com

PORTUGAL “Diana Nobre creates incredible photography for your special wedding day, producing lifestyle shots of extreme charm. She captures the beauty of every moment and her skilled design skills create enchanting images.” diananobre.com

Anna A. Photography

SANTORINI, GREECE “I absolutely love vibrant colours and contrasting textures and try to work these unique elements into the images I create. I am fortunate to live in the most magical place in the world, Santorini.” annaaphotography.com

Fern Photography

SCOTLAND “Our wedding photography style creates natural, clean and contemporary images of weddings. We travel near and far to work with couples to make sure their day is documented perfectly.” fernphotography.co.uk

Barefoot Heart

SOUTH AFRICA “For us it’s not just a wedding, it’s a story and for that we like to make sure that we capture your story in the most magical, authentic way.” barefootheart.co

Iris Art Photography

SPAIN “The day itself will be emotional, overwhelming and quick. Iris Art Photography, with their documentary and candid style, stop the precious moments, so in months time you can relax and look back at your wedding day.” irisartphotography.co.uk

John Hellstrom

SWEDEN “I know how important a wedding day is, and how enjoyable it is to remember it and to show and leave your legacy to future generations.” hellstrom.com

Miss Fioue

SWITZERLAND “Having Miss Fioue with you is like having a professional bridesmaid, the keeper of your most beautiful memories for the years to come, thanks to her expert eye and warm personality.” missfioue.ch

Lia Everette Photography

VIRGINIA, USA “We never want to show up on your wedding day and feel like strangers to you. Getting to know our couples and growing a relationship with them is so important to us, which is why we believe in sharing who we are with you.” liaeverettephotography.com

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AUSTRIA FLIGHT TIME: 2 hours DOCUMENTS: Driver’s Licence, passport (with copies),

birth certificate, decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), CNI, all documents translated into German, marriage application must be filled at the Civil Registry Office for the First District of Vienna

RESIDENCY: None Required WAITING PERIOD: 2-4 Weeks MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Tetanus, Tick-borne

Encephalitis

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 02073443250 TOURIST INFO: austria.info/uk

AUSTRIA FLIGHT TIME: 2 hours DOCUMENTS: Driver’s Licence, passport (with copies),

birth certificate, decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), CNI, all documents translated into German, marriage application must be filled at the Civil Registry Office for the First District of Vienna

RESIDENCY: None Required WAITING PERIOD: 2-4 Weeks MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Tetanus, Tick-borne

Encephalitis

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 02073443250 TOURIST INFO: austria.info/uk

BAHAMAS FLIGHT TIME: 9 Hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, photo ID,

evidence of date of arrival in Bahamas, apostille stamp decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if names changed), affidavit of civil status and marriage license obtained in Bahamas

RESIDENCY: 1 day WAITING PERIOD: 2 days MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Hepatitis A and

Tetanus

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 0207 408 4488 TOURIST INFO: Bahamas.co.uk

LENS OF LOVE

BARBADOS FLIGHT TIME: 9 Hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, decree absolute

(if divorced) and death certificate (if widowed) and A signed letter from the Marriage Officer or official note from the Magistrate that states his/her intention to perform the wedding ceremony must be presented when applying for marriage licence.

RESIDENCY: None Required WAITING PERIOD: 1 day MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Yellow Fever,

Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Diphtheria and Tetanus

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 020 7299 7150 TOURIST INFO: visitbarbados.org

CAYMAN ISLANDS FLIGHT TIME: 15 Hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, decree absolute

(if divorced) and death certificate (if widowed), certificate of No Impediment, Letter from the authorised Marriage Officer who will officiate at your ceremony and Immigration card proving your entry into the Cayman Islands.

RESIDENCY: None Required WAITING PERIOD: None Required

Medical Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Tetanus

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 020 7491 7772 TOURIST INFO: visitcaymanislands.com

CHICAGO, USA FLIGHT TIME: 9 Hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, $60 marriage license fee, birth

certificate, decree absolute (if divorced) and death certificate (if widowed)

RESIDENCY: None Required WAITING PERIOD: 1 day MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis

B, and Tetanus

AGE REQUIREMENT: 16, a father, mother or legal guardian must appear with valid photo identification.

SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 0207 499 9000 TOURIST INFO: choosechicago.com

COSTA RICA FLIGHT TIME: 11.5 Hours DOCUMENTS: Passport (plus two photocopies), decree

absolute (if divorced) and death certificate (if widowed)

RESIDENCY: None Required WAITING PERIOD: None MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Yellow

Fever (certificate required dependent on risk), Hepatitis A (recommended), Diphtheria, Rabies, Tetanus (to consider)

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 02077068844 TOURIST INFO: visitcostarica.com

CYPRUS FLIGHT TIME: 4.5 Hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, decree absolute

(if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), adoption certificate (if adopted), deed poll (if name changed), sworn affidavits of single status, check with municipality to confirm any additional documents required

RESIDENCY: 3 days WAITING PERIOD: 15 days MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Tetanus (to consider) AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 02073214100 TOURIST INFO: 0207321483, visitcyprus.com

ENGLAND DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, national identity card from the EEA, certificate of registration, certificate of naturalisation, travel documents, biometric residence card permit, and death certificate (if widowed) and a decree of absolute (if divorced) RESIDENCY: None Required WAITING PERIOD: 28 days MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis

B and Tetanus

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes TOURIST INFO: visitengland.com

THE LENS OF LOVE

FINLAND FLIGHT TIME: 3 Hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, decree absolute

(if divorced) and death certificate (if widowed), certificate of No Impediment

RESIDENCY: None Required WAITING PERIOD: 2 months MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis

B, Tick-borne Encephalitis and Tetanus

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 020 7838 6200 TOURIST INFO: visitfinland.com

FLORIDA, USA FLIGHT TIME: 10 Hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, decree absolute

(if divorced) and death certificate (if widowed)

RESIDENCY: None Required WAITING PERIOD: None Required MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis

B and Tetanus

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 0207 499 9000 TOURIST INFO: visitflorida.com

GERMANY FLIGHT TIME: 1.5 Hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate RESIDENCY: 21 days residency prior to marriage WAITING PERIOD: 6 weeks MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 020 7824 1300 TOURIST INFO: germany.travel/en

GRENADA FLIGHT TIME: 10 Hours 45 minutes DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, affidavit of single

status, decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if widowed) and deed poll (if name changed)

RESIDENCY: 3 days WAITING PERIOD: 2 days MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis

B, Rabiesand Tetanus

AGE REQUIREMENT: 21 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 020 7385 4415 TOURIST INFO: grenadagrenadines.com

ITALY FLIGHT TIME: 2 Hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, CNI decree

absolute (if divorced, must wait 300 days after the end of the last marriage), death certificate (if widowed), adoption certificate (if adopted), deed poll (if name changed), certified Italian transactions of all documents

RESIDENCY: 2-4 days WAITING PERIOD: 6 months MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 02073122200 TOURIST INFO: italia.it/en/

ISRAEL FLIGHT TIME: 4 Hours 55 mins DOCUMENTS: Passport (form of photo ID), 3 passport

photo’s of both the bride and groom, marriage certificate from both sets of parents, Registration fee of 600nis,birth certificate, decree absolute (if divorced) and death certificate (if widowed)

RESIDENCY: None Required WAITING PERIOD: 45 days MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis

B, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Rabies and Poliomyelitis

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 020 7957 9500 TOURIST INFO: new.goisrael.com

THE LENS OF LOVE

MALTA FLIGHT TIME: 3 Hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, decree absolute

(if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), adoption certificate (if adopted), deed poll (if name changed), apostille stamps and third party declaration

RESIDENCY: 2 days WAITING PERIOD: 6 weeks, but no more than 3 months

notice required

MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Yellow Fever

(certificate required dependent on risk)

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 02072924800 TOURIST INFO: visitmalta.com

RHODE ISLAND (NEW ENGLAND) USA FLIGHT TIME: 11 Hours 5 mins DOCUMENTS: Passport, $24 marriage license fee, birth

certificate, decree absolute (if divorced) and death certificate (if widowed)

RESIDENCY: None Required WAITING PERIOD: None Required

Medical Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Tetanus

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 0207 499 9000 TOURIST INFO: visitrhodeisland.com

THE NETHERLANDS FLIGHT TIME: 1 Hour DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, decree absolute

(if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), Proof of address and proof of nationality

RESIDENCY: At least one of the partners is a Dutch national or resident in the Netherlands WAITING PERIOD: 14 days MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis

B, Tetanus and Diphtheria

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 020 7590 3200 TOURIST INFO: netherlands-tourism.com

THE LENS OF LOVE

PORTUGAL FLIGHT TIME: 2 ½ Hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, certificate of

No impediment, decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if widowed)

RESIDENCY: None Required WAITING PERIOD: None Required MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Hepatitis A and

Tetanus

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 0207 235 5331 TOURIST INFO: visitportugal.com

SANTORINI, GREECE FLIGHT TIME: 5 Hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, decree absolute

(if divorced) and death certificate (if widowed), certificate of No Impediment, adoption certificate (if adopted), deed poll (if name has been changed)

RESIDENCY: None Required WAITING PERIOD: 6 Months MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis

B, Tick-borne Encephalitis and Tetanus

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 020 7313 5600 TOURIST INFO: visitgreece.gr

SCOTLAND FLIGHT TIME: 1 Hour 15 DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, decree absolute

(if divorced) and death certificate (if widowed), certificate of No Impediment

RESIDENCY: None Required WAITING PERIOD: 15 days MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: N/A AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: N/A TOURIST INFO: visitscotland.com

SOUTH AFRICA FLIGHT TIME: 12 Hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate with apostille

stamps, decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), adoption certificate (if adopted), deed poll (if name changed) and affidavit of single status

RESIDENCY: None required WAITING PERIOD: None required

Medical Vaccinations: Yellow Fever (certificate required dependent on risk), Hepatitis B, Rabies, Tetanus, Typhoid (to consider)

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 02074517299 TOURIST INFO: southafrica.net

SPAIN FLIGHT TIME: 2 Hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate with apostille

stamps, certificate of No Impediment to marry, decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), adoption certificate (if adopted), and deed poll (if name changed)

RESIDENCY: 2 years WAITING PERIOD: 15 days MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 02072355555 TOURIST INFO: spain.info

SWEDEN FLIGHT TIME: 2 Hours 15 minutes DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, affidavit of single

status, decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), certificate of No Impediment, deed poll (if name changed) and a copy of your country’s marriage laws, certified and stamped by an official

RESIDENCY: None Required WAITING PERIOD: 21 days MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis

B and Tick-borne Encephalitis

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 020 7917 6400 TOURIST INFO: visitsweden.com

THE LENS OF LOVE

SWITZERLAND FLIGHT TIME: 1 ½ Hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, decree absolute

(if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), proof of Swiss nationality or residency plus an affidavit of single status or other documentation from your home country proving you are free to marry

RESIDENCY: None required WAITING PERIOD: 35 days MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis

B, Tetanus and Tick-borne Encephalitis

AGE REQUIREMENT: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 0207 616 6000 TOURIST INFO: myswitzerland.com

VIRGINIA, USA FLIGHT TIME: 11 Hour DOCUMENTS: Passport, $30 marriage license fee, birth

certificate, decree absolute (if divorced) and death certificate (if widowed)

RESIDENCY: None Required WAITING PERIOD: None Required MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis

B, and Tetanus

AGE REQUIREMENT: 16, a father, mother or legal guardian must appear with valid photo identification.

SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE: 0207 499 9000 TOURIST INFO: virginia.org

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BEFORE YO A smart guide to Britain’s best counties, ideal for your wedding celebration!

A majestic celebration deserves a picturesque venue! We’ve rounded up the best British destinations, perfect for a regal wedding.

Our definitive guide to Britain’s remarkable counties, discover magnificent castles and estates perfect for a special wedding celebration.

From the beauty of Berkshire to the lush greenery of Powys, each unique county is home to an astonishing array of amazing landmarks and attractions.

Take wonderful wedding photos on the flourishing landscapes of the Pennines or celebrate your love on the scenic rugged coastlines of Cornwall.

There is so much to see and do in Britain. Why not take a visit to one of these picturesque counties that are perfect for short breaks with your loved one! Spend the days after your romantic wedding strolling through rustic villages and bustling market stalls or horse riding though mystical meadows and picnics by the riverside. These idyllic counties await your discovery!

Bestof

BRITISH

ABERDEENSHIRE WE SAY: “Positioned on the north-east coast of Scotland is the idyllic county of Aberdeenshire. Composed of tranquil coastlines, rugged cliffs and picturesque towns, this scenic seaside county awaits your discovery” THEY SAY: “With rolling hills, open farmland and towering mountains in the west and sweeping beaches, coastal cliffs and panoramic skies in the east, Aberdeenshire has plenty of room for you to relax and breathe.” (visitscotland.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Take on the snow-capped slopes of Scotland, with your love. Book a thrilling ski experience with your love at The Lecht 2090.

- Discover Scotland’s ancient art of whiskey production and delve a little deeper into the Secret Malts of Aberdeenshire with a visit to the Glen Garioch Distillery - Delight in the historical breathtaking views of Dunnottar Castle, one of Aberdeenshire’s most iconic destinations.

BERWICKSHIRE WE SAY: “The historical county of Berwickshire, is a well-established region of Scotland, due to its rich past. A region inhabited by Romans, British and Danes, then won by Edward I of England; this is just a part of the history behind this landmark location. The eastern coast touches the North Sea, where you can get wrapped up in the sublime scenery, as well as a acres of agricultural land in the southern area.”

THEY SAY: “The Berwickshire economy is agricultural, with fishing particularly from Eyemouth. The town of Berwick, from which the county is named, might be claimed by Berwickshire but the town was sundered by force from its shire in the mediæval wars, leaving Berwickshire without its natural county town.” (county-wise.org.uk) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: -The enchanting ruins of Dryburgh Abbey are a great site to visit in the area of the Scottish Borders - For a stunning setting in formal gardens tour the 16th century castle of Thirlestane - For fishing and outdoor lovers set on a cruise along the 156km River Tweed, and enjoy the natural landscape

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE WE SAY: “An attractive natural environment, Buckinghamshire is a county that is worth your while. With many places of historical and cultural interest to visit and a plethora of activities to partake in, you’ll find that Buckinghamshire is very diverse in character.”

THEY SAY: “It’s the perfect year-round destination for memorable short-breaks and day trips, with its chocolate box villages, historic towns, quality attractions and stunning countryside.” (visitbuckinghamshire.org) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Catch an awe-inspiring production at the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre with your significant other - Revel in complete relaxation and tranquil rejuvenation at the Stoke Park Spa - Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the stunning English countryside after some flying lessons in a vintage Havilland Tiger Moth biplane

Best of British

CARMARTHENSHIRE WE SAY: “Carmarthenshire, the heart of south Wales is a county of astounding beauty. Be enchanted by the rolling countryside landscapes, picturesque mountains, and the quaint bustling market towns.”

THEY SAY: “Discover the striking coastline of Carmarthen Bay in the south and the rugged western Brecon Beacons in the north. Visit Carmarthenshire and learn the legend of the birth of Merlin, while taking in the scenery which inspired Dylan Thomas.” (visitwales.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Wander through one of the most romantic ancient ruins of Wales, Carreg Cennen castle. Delight in the astonishing panoramic views and vintage decor - Relax with your love near the sparkling Taff estuary, which inspired the great poet Dylan Thomas - A fascinating blend of the modern and historic, National Botanic Garden of Wales is home to the British Bird of Prey Centre, a tropical Butterfly House and other astounding wonders of nature

CORNWALL WE SAY: “Part of England’s rugged southwestern tip, Cornwall is definitely one to visit. This seaside sensation is bursting with seasonal fun, music, literature and arts. Take a trip with the love of your life and be immersed in the Cornish culture.”

THEY SAY: “Cornwall is a land defined by its spectacular coastline which tapers out into the Atlantic Ocean. The dramatic granite cliffs of Land’s End, picture postcard harbours and the wide sandy beaches of the north coast have all made Cornwall a holiday favorite for generations” (cornwalls.co.uk) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Known as the UK’s home of surfing, no trip is complete without riding the waves of the Atlantic - Take a hike with your love through the oak woodland of Draynes Wood and catch a glimpse of the spectacular Golitha Falls - Discover Porfell Wildlife Park, Cornwall’s biggest exotic animal sanctuary and home to over 250 animals from around the world

DERBYSHIRE WE SAY: “This east midlands county is worth your exploration!

Composed of sweeping dales, miles of woodland and green hillsides, it’s all about the outdoors.”

THEY SAY: “Let us show you around a world of contrasting natural beauty, with moors and dales, rivers, springs and caverns and at the heart of it all, there are loads of things to do Derbyshire.”(visitpeakdistrict.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Explore the limestone structures below the earth at Pooles Cavern.

See how crystal stalactites have grown in the chamber over millions of years - Take a cable car through the Heights of Abraham and delight in the views it has to offer - Horse riding in Derbyshire and the Peak District is a amazing way to experience the landscape from a different perspective

DEVON WE SAY: “Embodying the beauty of the countryside, the picturesque views of beach-fringed landscapes, wild moors and rugged coasts enthrall you to leave behind the concern of life and bask in its rustic tranquility.”

THEY SAY: “There’s so much to do and so much to see in this beautiful county. Visit Devon – and you’re sure to be back, time and again” (visitdevon.co.uk) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - A Canoe Tamar safari is the best way to enjoy the stunning scenery and wildlife - Indulge in complete relaxation at the luxury spa at the Victoria Hotel. The soothing oasis and sanctuary, promises that you leave feeling refreshed and revitalised.

- Discover the beautiful collection of art at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum

DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY WE SAY: “Comprised of gentle hills and lush valleys, the tranquil county of Dumfries and Galloway lies delicately on the southern coast of Scotland. The rich and colourful county has an activity for everyone from bird-watching and hiking to sightseeing and extreme sports!”

THEY SAY: “Dumfries and Galloway is an ideal holiday destination, providing something for all the family whether it is for relaxation, sporting pursuits, site seeing, bird watching or nature walks. This beautiful region provides a delightful view of Scotland in miniature.” (explore-dumfries-galloway.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - An icon of art, the Crawick Multiverse was once a coal mine but has since been transformed into an outdoor space for all to enjoy.

- Picnic at the Logan Botanic Garden with your love and delight in the rare remarkable collection of flora and fauna.

- The Mabie 7stanes biking route is the ideal place to enjoy the lush greenery and scenic views of Dumfries and Galloway.

ESSEX WE SAY: “Essex is a remarkable collection of the old and the new, a rich tapestry of everything that makes Britain great. Combining modern facilities, fascinating towns and villages and ever-changing coastlines, Essex is the perfect short break.” (visitessex.com) THEY SAY: “A county of contrasts, Essex couples contemporary attractions with the splendor of ancient history. Be sure to see the history landmarks like Audley End House and Gardens and newly created architectural masterpieces such as Firstsite in Colchester.”

MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Visit the impressive Firstsite Gallery, in the heart of the cultural quarter. Designed by Rafael Viñoly, the modern art gallery run exhibitions run all year - Observe of over 270 wildlife species with your love at the Colchester Zoo, one of the top 20 zoos in the world - The Colchester Castle Museum is a must visit. Home to biggest Norman Keep in Europe is exciting displays and activities make for a wonderful day out.

Best of British

GLOUCESTERSHIRE WE SAY: “Situated in South-West England rests the idyllic county of Gloucestershire. Comprised of the serene honey-hued Cotswold villages, lush greenery and medieval market squares, Gloucestershire is worth your visit.”

THEY SAY: “An ever popular family day out, Gloucestershire offers plenty to see and do in nature as well as a rich medieval history.

Enjoy hiking along the vast Cotswold Way or stop in one of the many charming towns for a cuppa.” (visitengland.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: -Gather with thousands at the top of Cooper Hill for the annual Double Gloucestershire cheese rolling. Watch from the top, or take part with your love, but be careful!

- Stroll around Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens and enjoy undisturbed views of the animals, from magnificent rhinos to elegant giraffes.

- Take a visit to the medieval Berkeley Castle and take part in a number of activities, from jousting and archery, to falconry and jester skills

GWYNEDD WE SAY: “From mountains to coastline, Snowdonia has a rich and stunning diversity that will leave you speechless. Culture and sublime beauty surround this magical landscape. Celtic shrines, fortresses and slate extraction are only some of the distinguishing factors of this rich region.”

THEY SAY: “It’s what makes us different. Country and coast are peppered with a special mix of historic sites – World Heritage fortresses and slate quarries, Celtic shrines and cultural centres.

There are inspirational landscapes too, and a living Welsh language you’ll hear and see everywhere.” (visitsnowdonia.info) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - For a thrilling adventure climb up Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales - Relive the heroic past of the Welsh at the medieval fortress of Caernarfon Castle - Adventure on an exciting excursion through the Llechwedd Slate Caverns and discover ancient mines

HAMPSHIRE WE SAY: “Hampshire is the perfect blend of city, coast and country, blessed with natural beauty of two National Parks, thriving culture, with history and heritage at its heart” (visit-hampshire.co.uk) THEY SAY: “The eastern county of Hampshire is bursting of attractions and experiences, making it the ideal place for a day trip or short break. Discover a plethora of arts, culture, music, sports and much more” MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Glamping offers the experience of traditional camping but with a few added luxuries. South Downs national park is a glamping hotspot, it undulating hills make it perfect for walkers and cyclists - For those lovers of wildlife, take a trip to the Blue Reef Aquarium in Portsmouth and observe the multi-coloured schools of tropical fish.

- Unwind and relax with a luxury spa break at the Careys Manor and SenSpa. Hidden in the tranquil village of Brockenhurst, revitalize and rejuvenate your senses with their lavish spa packages

INVERNESS WE SAY: “Inverness has the all elements for memorable city break.

Enjoy a delightful walk through the picturesque city; appreciate St Andrew’s Cathedral, the Inverness Castle and stroll along the idyllic banks for the River Ness.” (visitscotland.com) THEY SAY: “We have to say, we’ve got a lot of love for Inverness. A compact, cosmopolitan city with a lot of heart, and all the wonders of the Highlands on its doorstep - that’s a pretty fine combination, don’t you think?”

MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Inverness botanical gardens offer a tranquil break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Amidst beautiful formal gardens, ponds and wild flower meadow - Explore the historic city of Inverness with a visit to Inverness Museum and Art Gallery.

- Take a visit to the River Ness and Ness Island and indulge in the panoramic natural views.

LANARKSHIRE WE SAY: “The historic county of Lanarkshire is situated in the central lowlands of Scotland. Offering a wealth of places to visit and things to do, there is never moment in this remarkable area” THEY SAY: “A trip to Lanarkshire means more time to enjoy yourself, as getting here is easy. Lanarkshire is brimming with quality visitor attraction and things to do. As well as beautiful scenery for walking and cycling and other outdoor pursuits” (visitlanarkshire.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Head for the beautiful ruin of Bothwell Castle, managed by Historic Environment Scotland and you can access the Clyde Walkway.

- Take a visit to the Cuningar Loop in Rutherglen. The 15 hectares of derelict land has been transformed into a city park with sculptures, bouldering and woodland trails - One of only four observatories operating in the UK. Airdrie Observatory is of historical and scientific interest for all ages

LANCASHIRE WE SAY: “Founded in the 12th century, the county of Lancashire offers a rich heritage, beautiful rugged coastline, stately homes and friendly residents. Enjoy an array of outdoor activities, from swimming and cycling to shooting and riding in the wild parkland. Don’t forget to try the world-famous Lancashire cheese!”

THEY SAY: “A tantalising county of contrasting landscapes, diverse heritage and plentiful food and drink, covering 3,075 km2 of England’s North West. There is something for everyone, with countryside, canals, coast and towns. Enjoy stunning views, quiet lanes, rare wildlife and our famous Lancashire coastline.” (www.visitlancashire.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Head to Pendle Hill to retrace the steps of the ‘Pendle Witches,’ who were executed in 1612 in a notorious witch trial - Take a ride on the tallest rollercoaster in the UK in Blackpool, a favourite fun holiday destination - Visit one of Lancashire’s finest Tudor buildings, Rufford Old Hall, where Shakespeare is rumoured to have performed in the 1580s

Best of British

LEICESTERSHIRE WE SAY: “The serene landscape and woodland of Leicestershire is perfect for a quick city-break and makes for a truly dreamy English countryside wedding. Enjoy the historic homes and delicious food of unique Leicestershire.”

THEY SAY: “Experience contemporary, inspirational shopping in Leicester or browse the markets in our market towns, and once you’re all shopped out, why not relax in a stylish city bar or restaurant?

Alternatively, take life at a more leisurely pace and relax with friends over a pub lunch, or jump on a bike and explore the countryside.” (www.goleicestershire.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Visit the historic and stylish Belvoir Castle, where a brand new gourmet food and shopping experience called ‘The Engine Yard’ has just opened - Travel back in time on the Great Central Railway, Britain’s only double track main line steam railway - Get a quick history lesson on the Battle of 1485 at Bosworth Battlefield, where Richard III lost his life, making Henry Tudor the new King

NORFOLK WE SAY: “Active Norfolk is the ideal place to get moving in the great outdoors for your honeymoon or holiday. Hike through the vast forests or visit Great Yarmouth, one of the top seaside resorts in Britain. If Norfolk is good enough to be the Queen’s home (Sandringham Estate), then it’s good enough for us!”

THEY SAY: “Norfolk is a great all-year holiday, offering over 90 miles of unspoilt coastline, beautiful countryside, the unique Broads National Park, forests and heathland, internationally important nature reserves, picturesque market towns, amazing birdwatching and fabulous seaside resorts.” (www.visitnorfolk.co.uk) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Visit the Grade I Nelson Monument, built as a tribute to Britain’s greatest naval hero - Zipline through the tallest trees in the country in the Breckland and Thetford Forest - Walk through the serene cloisters of Norwich Cathedral, constructed in 1096

NORTHAMPTONSHIRE WE SAY: “Unwind and relax in the rural tranquilly of Northamptonshire. Comprised of gentle landscapes and winding country lanes, this undiscovered beauty is worth your exploration.”

THEY SAY: “Experience the traditional qualities of rural England in Northamptonshire. Take a gentle stroll around charming villages; wander around stately homes, discover art treasures and glorious gardens and let our country footpaths guide you around a rural oasis, far from the pressures of modern living” (visitnorthamptonshire.co.uk) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Irchester Park is the ideal place for thrill-seeking couples. Glide and climb through the green trees at the Jungle Parc - A standing relic from the bygone era, visiting the Rockingham Castle is definitely one for your bucket list.

- Dating back to the 1700s Cottesbrooke Hall and Gardens is a historical hotspot. One of Queen Anne’s many homes, the beautiful lily ponds and scenic gardens create the perfect ambience for you and your love.

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE WE SAY: “Situated in the east midlands of England is the outstanding county of Nottinghamshire. Steeped in English heritage and clothed in a fascinating history, this vibrant county is one of a kind” THEY SAY: “Home of legendary outlaw Robin Hood, dynamic culture, rich history and sporting glory - Nottinghamshire is one of the UK’s top destinations, and a warm welcome always awaits.” (visit-nottinghamshire.co.uk) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - VPartake in an adventurous or peaceful pony ride with Derbyshire Pony Trekking. Journey through the beautiful countryside with your love.

- Delight in the glorious landscape of Japanese gardens and parklands at the magnificent Newstead Abbey. Relax on the lush greenery and catch glimpses of roaming peacocks.

- A chosen sport in medieval England, why not take part in an archery lesson with your significant other

OXFORDSHIRE WE SAY: “Oxfordshire is the pinnacle of refinement: academia, formality and manicured gardens come to mind. This is the land of Harry Potter, of Blenheim Palace and of unique shopping experiences that are above all, luxurious. That being said, there are also some wonderful centuries-old pubs and restaurants that are not to be missed!”

THEY SAY: “Oxfordshire has a lot to offer to visitors and there is a reason why people return to the county again and again. Whether you want to discover an ancient civilisation at a world famous museum, wander around some of the most famous landmarks in the UK or relax with an afternoon tea, you will find something to do for all occasions and all members of the family.” (www.experienceoxfordshire.org) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: -Discover a world of luxury shopping for less at Bicester Village - Take a tour of prestigious Oxford University, the oldest university in the English speaking world - Stroll through the formal gardens of Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

PERTHSHIRE WE SAY: “A fairytale setting of magnificent mountains and mysterious lochs, Perthshire is set in the untouched southern Highlands. The sublime landscape gives rise to green forests and waterfalls tumbling down the rocky mounts. Spend your days in exploration and adventure in Perthshire.”

THEY SAY: “The region’s breathtaking variety, from its serene glens and endless expanses of lush forest, to its bleakly beautiful moors, rushing rivers and tumbling waterfalls made Sir Walter Scott gush about his love for Perthshire. The scenery is truly awe-inspiring.” (visitscotland.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Explore gardens, parkland and forests - Sail along the River Tay and discover the Churchyard at Kinfauns - Stop by Scone Palace for a dreamy estate with an intriguing maze and glorious pine trees

Best of British

POWYS WE SAY: “Located in the heart of Wales is their largest county, Powys. Encompassing vast rugged landscapes of astounding mountains and grassy valleys, it the ideal rural haven for a intimate getaway with your significant other” THEY SAY: “Book a short break to mid-wales, family holiday, a romantic getaway, or group visit and you will find a wide choice of hotels or bed and breakfast. Stay at a country inn, go glamping, stay on a farm, enjoy a holiday park or rest in a secluded country cottage in this region.” (visitmidwales.co.uk) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: -Explore the uncontaminated landscape of Snowdonia and Brecon Beacons National Park - Wildlife lovers should try the Falconry Experience Wales for the chance to meet rare falcon species - The Black Mountains are ideal for water sports and activities, like canoeing and white water rafting

SOMERSET WE SAY: “Enchanting beaches and Arthurian sagas will introduce you to the superb beauty of the Somerset area. Get lost in the vibrant atmosphere of this region and immerse yourself in arts and culture with the five day festival of Glastonbury every summer. Folk traditions are kept alive in the open countryside. Be sure to stop for some local cider.”

THEY SAY: “Think of Somerset and what comes to mind - stunning views across open countryside, sandy beaches, superb strawberries, Cheddar cheese and cider? World-wide, our county is famous for its Glastonbury Festival, illuminated carnivals, Mulberry handbags and Arthurian Legends. There is more! Much more.” (visitsomerset.co.uk) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Bath, for all bookworms, is the stunning setting described in Jane Austen’s novel - If you are in search of a scenic landscape, head to Exmoor National Park, where hills meet rivers and coast - Discover the heritage of Crewkerne, a lovely little town with stone designed ancient buildings

SUFFOLK WE SAY: “Nestled on the east coast of England, Suffolk is characterised by its magnificent views and breathtaking natural beauty. Brimming with charming villages and charismatic towns, it beckons to tourists and visitors from around the world” THEY SAY: “The fabulous attractions and great days out in Suffolk mean you can do as much as you want, or as little. Sometimes, in a place this rich and beautiful, just being is pleasure enough.” (visitsuffolk.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Unwind by the shimmering waters of the Suffolk Coast, and observe the rare birds as they fly across the blue skies and majestic red deer as they graze on the lush landscapes.

- Wander down the medieval streets of Bury St. Edmunds and indulge in the assortment of vintage boutiques and modern cafés.

- Theatre-lovers are in for a treat, with the Ipswich Pulse and Spill Festival. Enjoy a variety of performances with your love.

SURREY WE SAY: “One of the hypnotizing wonders of England, Surrey is home of lush forest land. Enclosed by a great number of counties this picturesque landscape stands out as being the most wooded region of Great Britain.”

THEY SAY: “Despite its location next to London, Surrey contains a great deal of mature woodland. Among its many notable beauty spots are Box Hill, Leith Hill, Frensham Ponds, Newlands Corner and Puttenham and Crooksbury Commons. It is the most wooded county in Great Britain, with 22.4% coverage. Box Hill has the oldest untouched area of natural woodland in the UK, one of the oldest in Europe.” (visitsurrey.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Superb view overlooking the summit of Box Hill - An art-based adventure at Watts Gallery in Artists’ Village - Take a romantic adventure on the scenic Virginia Water Lake

SUSSEX WE SAY: “Sussex is blessed with an expanse of stunning coastline and lively seaside cities, like the young and fun Brighton. Iconic towns such as Battle and Hastings share the land with the bewitching beauty of the white cliffs of Beachy Head.”

THEY SAY: “Spanning nearly 1500 sq miles, East and West Sussex boast over 100 miles of spectacular coastline, flanking the English Channel. Used as a point of invasion since Roman times, the coastline flourished during the Victorian era with the creation of many popular seaside resorts, such as Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings.” (travelaboutbritain.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Battle of Hastings Abbey & Battlefield are a throwback to the place where the war was fought by the Saxons and Normans - For an amazing panoramic view over the South Downs, visit the Arundel Castle & Gardens - Spend an unforgettable weekend of fun at Worthing in East Sussex

Best of British

SWANSEA WE SAY: “Swansea, a city and county on the south east of Wales is the perfect location for a legendary adventure with your love. Embrace the beautiful beaches and unspoilt countryside; there are a plethora of delightful activities for you and your love to enjoy” THEY SAY: “A visit to Swansea is a must; take in the sweeping waterfront of Swansea Bay leading to Mumbles and onto the beautiful Gower Peninsula. Not complete without trying one of the famous Welsh-Italian ice cream parlours.” (visitwales.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: -Take a trip to the Wales National Waterfront Museum. A striking architectural landmark in its own right, the museum celebrates the industrial and maritime history of Wales dating back to the 1800s.

- Sample delicious welsh delicacies including cookies and laverbread the Swansea Market.

- Delight in the exotic planting ranges from the Elephant Rhubarb and American Skunk Cabbage at the Clynne Gardens

WARWICKSHIRE WE SAY: “Situated in the heart of the West Midlands is the captivating region of Warwickshire, birthplace of William Shakespeare. Find yourself transported to the Elizabethan Era as you witness the plays of the Shakespeare Company. There is no limit to the historical landmarks this county has to offer and together with the natural resources like tumbling rivers, it is a true gem to explore.”

THEY SAY: “Revel in the heart of Shakespeare’s England with a short break to Warwickshire. In Stratford-upon-Avon, the theatres of the Royal Shakespeare Company welcome you to witness one of the Bard’s famous plays live. See signature motte-and-bailey forts and romantic Elizabethan love nests with gatehouses and towers.” (visitengland.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - For history enthusiasts, Warwick Castle is a thriving destination - Discover Shakespeare’s Schoolroom in Stratford-upon-Avon, where the poet was educated - The Attic Theatre is the home of award-winning performances

WEST MIDLANDS WE SAY: “Home to several boroughs buzzing with life, the West Midlands is definitely worth your visit. Choose from plethora of activities, from museums and theatres trips to scenic walks and picnics on the lush landscapes” THEY SAY:“Looking for things to do in the West Midlands? The region is packed with dazzling theatres, colossal exhibition centres, Balti restaurants, and shiny shopping malls. With endless ancient woodlands, heaths, and wetlands to explore, it isn’t hard to see how this place inspired JRR Tolkien to write The Lord of the Rings.” (visitengland.com) MAIN ATTRACTIONS: - Known as England’s second largest city, Birmingham is home to the country’s greatest attractions. Take a visit to Cadbury World and sample delicious chocolate treats.

- Brimming with fantastic pieces of contemporary art, the Herbert Art Gallery is ideal for an afternoon out with your love.

- The National Sea Life Centre is home to over 2000 wildlife creatures.

Watch and observe the colourful schools of fish and other fascinating sea life

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