Destination Weddings Winter 2023 by Weddings and Honeymoons

FA S H I O N

BEAUT Y

I N S P I R AT I O N

D E S T I N AT I O N S

H O N E YM O O N S

WINTER SPECIAL 2023

WIN

GOLD GUIDE AwardWinning Honeymoons & Wedding Ideas...

A SIX-NIGHT AY DREAM GETAW TO T H E

Maldives

Fresh off the Runway

NEW SEASON STYLES TO FLAUNT DOWN THE AISLE

weddingsandhoneymoonsmagazine.com

£ 9.99

Valentine’s Special PRETTY IDEAS AND GIFTS FOR YOUR

love

PAGES OF ROMANTIC WEDDINGS

COCOCOLLECTION.COM

+960 664 6600 | reservations@cococollection.com

Your resort getaway in the Maldives Located on the Thilamaafushi Island in the Lhaviyani Atoll, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa is a 360-degree canvas inspired by the formation of the Atolls, fringing reefs and marine life. Spanning nine hectares, the island is a true castaway experience abundant with indigenous flora and fauna enveloped by a shimmering lagoon and coral reefs teeming with marine life, including pods of rays and turtles. Every aspect of our hotel’s design takes its cues from a mid-century design aesthetic and the rich European heritage of Maldives. Savor the sights, sounds, aromas and tastes of the Lhaviyani Atoll with six restaurants and bars and Explore Spa by Le Méridien. Inspired by the essence of the Maldives, combined with a passion for culture, cuisine and design, our resort is a playful sanctuary for the curious and creative traveler to discover the European spirit of savoring the good life.

@lemeridienmaldives +960 400-8888

lemeridien-maldives.com lemeridienmaldives

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ROMANCE ROMANCE by theby the BEACH BEACH

Reethi Beach Reethi offersBeach an idyllic offerslocation an idyllic forlocation an for an utterly romantic utterlyvow romantic renewal vow or renewal symbolicor symbolic ceremony. What ceremony. moreWhat can couples more can wishcouples for wish for than to set off than into to the set off sunset intoasthethesunset fairy-tale as the fairy-tale moment comes moment to life? comes Whether to life?renewing Whether renewing vows or making vows or them making for thethem firstfor time, theReethi first time, Reethi Beach Resort Beach Maldives Resortwill Maldives ensurewill treasured ensure treasured memories ofmemories the special of day the special will last day forever. will last forever. Photo Credits Photo - @northsouthtravels Credits - @northsouthtravels | | Jake Wilton Jake & ElleWilton Mayell&| Elle Bianca Mayell De La | Bianca De La Rosa | Zack & Rosa Stella | Zack | Luth & Stella Productions | Luth Productions

{ BE { BE } HOLD } HOLD A venerated A venerated oasis for oasis for weddings weddings and and honeymoons honeymoons

Reethi Beach Reethi boasts Beach over boasts 20-years overof 20-years hospitality of hospitality in in the Maldives. the Maldives. Located inLocated the idyllic in the Baaidyllic Atoll, Baa it is Atoll, it is the only UNESCO the only biosphere UNESCO biosphere in the Maldivian in the Maldivian archipelago. archipelago. The islandThe is aisland pioneer is ainpioneer the atollinfor the atoll for sustainable sustainable tourism and tourism has recently and hasbeen recently awarded been awarded the Greenthe Globe Green Certiﬁcation, Globe Certiﬁcation, demonstrating demonstrating the the long-termlong-term environmental environmental commitments commitments of the of the resort. It offers resort. a It wide offers array a wide of timeless array ofexperiences, timeless experiences, from swimming from swimming in the legendary in the legendary Hanifaru Bay Hanifaru to Bay to catching acatching glimpseaofglimpse gentle giants, of gentle thegiants, whalethe whale sharks that sharks reside that within reside thewithin turquoise the turquoise blue waters, blue waters, promisingpromising true escapism true escapism and a once-in-a-lifetime and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. experience. Our adventurous Our adventurous connoisseurs connoisseurs seek seek Reethi Beach Reethi Resort, Beach not Resort, merely not formerely its aurafor ofits a aura of a paradise island, paradise butisland, for thebut extraordinary for the extraordinary way they way they feel whenfeel in residence when in residence here at our here property. at our Reethi property. Reethi Beach Resort Beach serves Resort as an serves acclaimed as an acclaimed oasis for oasis for travellers, travellers, guests and guests families andalike. families alike. For Reservations: For Reservations: Call us : +960 Call660 us : 2626 +960 660 2626 Email at : info@reethibeach.com Email at : info@reethibeach.com Website : www.reethibeach.com Website : www.reethibeach.com

Our new and amazing ROBINSON CYPRUS is located directly at a long, gently sloping sandy beach. Whether dining in the beach resturant or kitesurfing directly in the bay - you can experience unforgettable holiday moments at this stunning resort.

randcevents.com info@randcevents.com | Addresss: Grigoriou Moutsaki 31, Ierapetra, Crete 72200 | +30 2842 089399 | @r_cevents

Operating on the whole of Crete

NOTHING BUT THE BLUES. jaresortshotels.com

/Manafaru

@JAManafaru_Maldives

JA Manafaru: Haa Alifu Atoll, Upper North Province, Republic of Maldives

Letter

Editor-in-Chief’s

In association with The Omnia Zermatt OUR GOLD GUIDE SPECIAL PAGE 174!

ear Couples,

First of all, congratulations on getting engaged! As the New Year is about to commence, we can’t think of a better time to share a new edition of Destination Weddings: The Gold Guide Special! This Winter 2023, we have lots of surprises for couples, from proposal ideas for those who haven’t popped the question yet, to the most alluring destinations for your unforgettable honeymoon escape! Welcome to our Gold Guide Edition, one of the most celebrated magazines of the year! We’ve searched across the world for the most spectacular honeymoon retreats, and we can say that we have delivered! We’ve dedicated over 50 pages of inspiration for you, so you can plan the getaway of dreams anywhere across the globe. From the shores of the Indian Ocean to the most stunning European havens, you’ll come across the most spectacular sanctuaries in the world. Accompanying our Gold Guide feature, we have the perfect styles and accessories to match your destination. When it comes to details, we bring you an array of décor ideas to use for your blissful wedding anywhere in the world. This issue is also eco-focused. When it comes to sustainable destination weddings, there are steps that we can take to help the planet. We’ve chatted with planners and expert suppliers to gather the best paths to make your big day as planet-friendly as possible.

JA MANAFARU

FA S H I O N

BEAUT Y

I N S P I R AT I O N

D E S T I N AT I O N S

H O N E YM O O N S

WINTER SPECIAL 2023

WIN

GOLD GUIDE

A SIX-NIGHT DREAM GETAWAY TO THE

AwardWinning Honeymoons & Wedding Ideas...

Maldives

Fresh off the Runway

NEW SEASON STYLES TO FLAUNT DOWN THE AISLE

Our dedication

weddingsandhoneymoonsmagazine.com

£ 9.99

Valentine’s Special

And, of course, let’s start the year with a fantastic honeymoon competition! In this issue, you’ll be able to secure a six-night stay in the Maldives! Now, that’s a way to make an entrance into 2023!

PRETTY IDEAS AND GIFTS FOR YOUR

love

24ON THE COVER PAGES OF ROMANTIC WEDDINGS

ON THE COVER @dwedding_events @vangelisphotography

Get in touch at: et@weddingsandhoneymoonsmedia.com Ciao!

Eleonora

WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

1 31

CONTENTS

Winter 2023 ON THE COVER

SEASK FREYAROSE.COM

Inspired

22 28 30 37

BRIDAL STYLES Find the look that represents you best THE ECO-LOOK Embrace sustainability this winter A WINTER’S TALE A lavish affair set in the Venetian Lagoon FIERY OR FROSTY? Hot and cold stationery suites to match your wedding season

Fashion & Beauty

44 52 56

THETOPIARYCAKEDESIGN.COM

FRESH OFF THE CATWALK The latest designs are out, and this is what brides are loving GUEST OF HONOUR Find an outfit to suit the warm or cold season A STEP AHEAD Trot down the snowy or sandy aisle with the perfect shoe

62 DW

Real Weddings

66 72 75 80

VACATION IN CABOS This couple flew their loved ones out for a celebration to remember A TUSCAN DREAM The CEO of the world-famous Justin Alexander marries Kelsey Turchi in Italy WHEN IN ROME Roberta Torresan planned a regal affair at Villa Miani TROPICAL CELEBRATION A wedding day full of love on the shores of Saint Lucia

Planning

SEASKINLIFE.COM

122 SEASKINLIFE.COM HALFPENNYLONDON.COM

125

GO ALL GREEN ON YOUR WEDDING DAY Sustainable ways to plan a fabulous eco wedding this year LET’S POP THE QUESTION If your partner hasn’t gotten on one knee yet, throw them a few ideas BE MY VALENTINE Lots of inspiration for a wow-worthy gift

We lo JUL

IE V

INO

ve Editor-in-Chief Eleonora Tucci Art Director Emanuela Federici

122

ADAREMANOR.COM

Designers Charlotte Saunders Tania Estrela Contributing Writers

Venues

128

Emily Williams Callum Topazio

ECO VENUES A selection of jaw-dropping, eco-friendly locations from around the world

Social Media Manager Naina Chadha

129

Advertising Commercial Director Anthony Baines Sales Coordinator Tracey Game Account Director (Italy) Maria F. De Tommaso Account Director (UK) Sonia Burton

Travel

140 178 184

Special Features Director Brian Horrocks

ISLES AWAY Sail off into the sunset amidst the waters of the Indian Ocean DIVE INTO THE CARIBBEAN SEA Plan a honeymoon to remember with our sunny picks WIN A HONEYMOON! One lucky couple will be jetting off on a vacay to remember in the Maldives

Weddings and Honeymoons Media

184

Financial Controlloer Omotolani Evelyn Olatunbosun Chairman Parry Cockwell

VISIT US ON INSTAGRAM @weddingshoneymoonsmedia | TWITTER @ WandHmagazine | FACEBOOK @weddingsandhoneymoonsmedia CONTACT US Contact a team member by using their initials followed by @weddingsandhoneymoonsmedia.com | GENERAL info@weddingsandhoneymoonsmedia.com | Telephone: 00 44 (0) 333 455 9484 | Want to be featured? Send your stories, images and real weddings to submissions@weddingsandhoneymoonsmedia.com

WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

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PHOTO CREDIT: VARNA STUDIOS

“I found my Love in Portofino” Destination Weddings in Italy www.robertatorresan.com - wedding@robertatorresan.com

INSPIRED

THEMILLIONROSES.COM

WHETHER YOU ARE GETTING HITCHED AT THE TOP OF A MOUNTAIN OR ON A DREAMY SANDY BEACH, WE HAVE INFINITE WEDDING IDEAS FOR YOU TO FALL IN LOVE WITH

WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

Which Bride are you? The Modern

Princess

SAVOCA SAREHNOURI.COM

CLASSIC ROMANCE TIARA, £65 GLITZYSECRETS.COM

Do you feel inspired by Royal weddings and the Bridgerton series? Then add a tiara and diamond pendants for a regal look. Think ballgowns and touches of blue to convey a sophisticated and queenlike feel as you walk down the aisle.

DUO DROP EARRINGS UK.VRAI.COM

CLARISSE DIAMOND STUDS AURELIAANDPIERRE.COM

DESTINEE, £175 DUNELONDON.COM

IRIS IVORY, £319 BELLABELLESHOES.COM ARIBELLA, £195 DUNELONDON.COM

NELLY, £125 RAINBOWCLUB.CO.UK

ATHENA, £195 PRETTY-MAGPIE.COM

CUSTOM FOOTWEAR DUKEANDDEXTER.COM

BEDFORD MORNING COAT FAVOURBROOK.COM

Inspired

The chic

Fashionista

If you love all the latest contemporary styles, you definitely fall under the fashionista category. Are you keeping an eye on all the catwalks? We are sure you’ll love pearly accents, suits and sparkly details to help you add a touch of glamour on your big day. For a fashion-forward look, tie it together with a faux fur jacket, a hat and monochrome pieces.

ARMOR RING THEVAULT15.COM

VENUS JULIEVINO.COM

PRINCESS HUGGIE THEVAULT15.COM

SANS CESSE EMERALD ETERNITY OR-ELLE.COM

CADIE WATCH, £175 UK.COACH.COM

DOREEN, £245 LOEFFLERRANDALL.COM

BLYTHE BEAD PUMPS, £85 CHARLESKEITH.CO.UK

CRYSTAL DECANTER, £95 DARTINGTON.CO.UK

DROP PEARL EARRING, £120 OLIVIAANDPEARL.COM FETCH HAT FEDORA SOPHIEALLPORT.COM

MIRACLE, £175 DUNELONDON.COM

TED BAKER JACKET, £249 SUITDIRECT.CO.UK

CLARETTE, £195 DUNELONDON.COM

WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

The boho

Queen

Floaty, floral details are the perfect accents for your outdoor celebration. Convey an ethereal feel with earthy tones and natural elements, perfect for a romantic soirée abroad. These styles are feminine and down-to-earth, and you can make them stand out with floral headpieces and pops of colour.

BRAIDED HEADBAND, £50 LOEFFLERRANDALL.COM

FRAYED EDGE HAT, £26 BASKETBASKET.CO.UK GOLD WEAVE CUFF, £195 FREYAROSE.COM CHRISTINA INBARFREIMAN.COM

STAR HAIR SCRUNCHIE, £5 LUNACHARLES.CO.UK

FLOWER CLUTCH, £59.50 OLIVERBONAS.COM

PEAR CLUSTER HOOPS CAROUSELJEWELS.COM DRIED AVENA GRASS, £14 HEAVENLYHOMESANDGARDENS.CO.UK

CLARA, £105 RAINBOWCLUB.CO.UK

CAMELLIA, £300 LOEFFLERRANDALL.COM

CAMILA INBARFREIMAN.COM

The Quirky

Bride

Do you gravitate towards more alternative and fun styles? We’ve put some colourful and funky bridal ideas together for all the non-traditional couples out there. Think outside the box with unusual wedding hues, eccentric styles and details that you wouldn’t necessarily associate with weddings. Feel free to combine your playful personality with your wedding style - we are here for it! RED AND BLUE PAISLEY, £33 BLUEEYESBOWTIES.COM

EAR STUDS - PASTELLO BUCHERER.COM

OTTIMA ONYX RING, £175 ASTLEYCLARKE.COM

HEATHER CHECK SUIT, £429 SUITDIRECT.CO.UK

BRADSHAW COLLECTION KELLYFAETANINI.COM

CHLOE, £85 RAINBOWCLUB.CO.UK PAYTON SATIN TOP HANDLE BAG WHISTLES.COM UNA SAND BAG SHRIMPS.COM

ENCHANTING BOUQUET BUNCHES.CO.UK

MINELI, £115 DUNELONDON.COM

ROSE IN BLOOM NOIR, £975 FREYAROSE.COM

WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

www.sassiholford.com

SASSI HOLFORD

Made in England

The Eco-

Looks

SOPHIA BLAZER & GRETA TROUSER ROWLEYHESSELBALLE.COM

ith the constant rise of environmental issues, couples are aware now more than ever of how their big day can have an impact on the planet. A sustainable wedding brings images of leafy décor and petal confetti to mind, but the fashion industry also has some great companies and ideas on how your look can be more ecoconscious. From wearing something pre-loved to buying pieces you can use again after your wedding, a sustainable look is all about keeping the planet in mind.

PICKING PRE-LOVED

Sustainability is all about recycling to reduce waste, so why not do the same for your look? You could utilise a piece you already own, such as shoes or jewellery to avoid having to buy all new pieces. This also makes your wedding outfit more sentimental if you wear things already in your wardrobe that were gifted to you by a loved one, such as a locket with a photo of someone who sadly cannot be with you on your day, this ensures a part of them will be by your side. To fulfil your “something borrowed”, see if a loved one could lend something to you for the big day. Re-using things like shoes from someone else means the piece is new to you but saves some of that precious wedding budget that you can put towards another aspect of the day. 28

Sustainability is a big trend this wedding season, so follow us as we guide you through how to curate the perfect sustainable look with fashion and eco-conscious tips…

CRYSTAL IN GREEN, £99 RAINBOWCLUB.CO.UK

Maybe someone has a piece from their own wedding that they could lend you, after all, most couples vacuum pack and store their memorabilia in the attic gathering dust, this way it can be revived and re-used! Borrow your mum’s veil for a sentimental touch to your outfit and a great conversation starter between your guests. There are also lots of shops out there where you can get pre-loved wedding dresses and accessories for a fraction of the price and saves the materials and waste involved in fashioning a brand-new gown. A lot of brides worry that a pre-loved gown would look worn and weary, but these companies specialise in restoring gowns to look their best. Brides Do Good (bridesdogood.com) partner with brides and brands to curate a collection of pre-loved and designer gowns for your perusal, as well as donating ⅓ of profits to charity, you can do good and look good! Shopping for pre-loved gowns does put a limit on the options when it comes to sizing as shops will often only have the dress stocked in one size. But, this can just be seen as an opportunity to alter your gown to fit your body but also your style. Maybe you could customise the gown to feel more you with an added shoulder ruffle or a longer train? After all, with the money you save on purchasing a pre-loved gown, you can afford to have alterations, and you deserve to in exchange for helping save the planet!

Details

REUSABLE FASHION Following slow fashion means your aim should be to form a capsule wardrobe full of statement pieces that you can mix and match to create timeless looks, and this mentality can easily be applied to your wedding wardrobe, too.

GOLD PEARL DROPS OLIVIAANDPEARL.COM

Wedding separates are a huge trend now, these are separate pieces that you can put together to create brand-new looks without having to buy four new complete outfits. Whether you opt for an organza wrap top or removable puff sleeves, there are so many options to create new looks.

LARGE PEARL HOOPS OLIVIAANDPEARL.COM

Weddings are quickly becoming more than just a one-day event, with celebrations being spread over weekends and holidays, ultimately calling for more outfits from you as the star of the show. Ensure you buy pieces that will have longevity after the celebrations such as quality blazers and trousers you can dress-up with heels as these will do for hen CHARLOTTE BLAZER NADINEMERABI.COM

BRIDAL SEPERATES COASTFASHION.COM

LIGHT GRAY ALLURE SUIT GENERATIONTUX.COM

dos and pre-wedding parties. The Rainbow Club (rainbowclub.com) offer a service to dye your ivory wedding shoes a customised colour of your choice with environmentally-friendly products, giving your pumps a new lease of life! Rather than buy two whole gowns so you can have an evening dress change, you could customise your first gown and switch it up for the evening. Add a bustle so you can bundle up your train or use a removable skirt to transform your gown into a fun, flirty mini-dress to dance the night away in! Sometimes just switching up your accessories changes your whole look as you go from pearl drops to diamond chandelier earrings and saves you from buying a new dress. Olivia & Pearl (oliviaandpearl.com) offers stunning pearl jewellery for the modern woman with new ideals and gives back to the ecosystem at the centre of their company by donating to marine conservation projects and only working with top pearl farms. For the grooms, there are lots of companies out there that offer suit hire for great prices in very stylish designs. This helps the planet as you can re-use a suit rather than waste all the materials needed to create a brand-new one. Generation Tux (generationtux.com) offer suits and accessories to hire, as well as sending complimentary fabric swatches to match the outfit to your theme and a free home try-on service for the groom. Of course, you can make the look your own with personal ties or new cufflinks - just buy them from a sustainable jeweller! WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

A Winter’sTale Dream big with this opulent winter photoshoot in the heart of Venice…

A photoshoot exuding winter romance. The team decided to create a winter wonderland in the grand city of Venice. The Aman Palace, set on the Grand Canal, is the perfect location to host an extravagant affair in one of the most romantic cities in the world. Every detail incorporated in the editorial oozes elegance, from the tiered cake to the bride’s ruffled ballgown. And the crown jewel, you ask?

Styled Shoot

The mesmerising location blessed with frescoed walls and glittering chandeliers. What better way to experience the best Venice has on offer than with a stay in one of the canals’ best kept secrets and a boat ride around this magnificent Lagoon?

WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM 31

THE DREAM TEAM LOCATION @AMAN_VENICE PHOTOGRAPHY @SERENA_ GENOVESE VIDEOGRAPHY @SERGIO_BONITTI FLORIST @ DAISYSTUDIO.IT MISE EN PLACE @NEWMURANOGALLERY CUTLERY @PRELUDIODIVISIONENOLEGGIO WEDDING PLANNER @SIPARIO_WEDDING WEDDING CAKE @PASTICCERIA_RACCA MODEL AGENCY @MILANOMODELAGENCY MODEL@ DENISEFRIGO_ BRIDE & GROOM @SPOSADESTE BRIDE UNDERWEAR @INTIMISSIMIPORDENONE STATIONERY @ BEEINLOVE_ WEDDING HAIR @LUIGIMARCHIORI MAKEUP @ ROBERTA_MARCHIORI_MUA RINGS @INTHESTONEJEWELS 32

Destinations WH

Winter Wedding-land

Inspired

CHECKED SUIT EDGERS.COM.TR

Find our favourite picks for a wow-worthy, wintry fairytale day… PEAR DIAMOND RING ALICIAJDIAMONDS.COM

SIMPLY PEARL NECKLACE, £34 GLITZYSECRETS.COM OPULENT FLORAL INSTALLATION LARRYWALSHE.COM

PEARL STATIONERY SUITE ANANYACARDS.COM

TAORMINA SAREHNOURI.COM

EMMA BELLABELLESHOES.COM

BERKELEY CLUTCH, £175 DUNELONDON.COM DUO DROP CHAIN EARRINGS UK.VRAI.COM

WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM 33

Eco-

Bakes

Go green with your wedding day desserts with these tips on how to make your bakes more sustainable!

he wedding market is quickly becoming a very eco-conscious space with couples aware of how their one special day can have a big effect on the environment in the future. Your wedding cake and tasty desserts are an area where you too can consider the planet and reduce your wedding’s carbon footprint with these easy and simple eco-conscious changes and considerations…

1. SOURCE PRODUCTS FROM LOCAL PROVIDERS

When it comes to sourcing your cake and dessert ingredients, work with your baker and catering team to get them from local providers like farms and organic shops. Eggs, butter, milk and cream can all be sourced from local, sustainable sources with high welfare standards. As well as helping out smaller businesses you can also cut the travel miles.

2. PRIORITISE SEASONAL PRODUCE

Using fruit and flowers to decorate your wedding cake is a musthave for a showstopper dessert but you can help your wedding’s carbon footprint by using produce that is seasonal to your country. This means you won’t have to fly products in from another country where certain flowers and fruits may be in season and a shorter trip from field to baker helps our environment out. It can also help narrow down flavours and décor for your bakes, think dahlias, peonies and berries for summer and jasmine and figs for winter!

3. ECO-FRIENDLY CAKE TOPPERS

Choose a topper that won’t end up in the bin after the big day! To top your wedding cake, use a small ornament or statue that you can display in your home after the big day and provide a forever reminder of your special time. Why not ask your loved ones if they have anything suitable so you can fulfil your ‘something borrowed’ at the same time?

Details 4. VEGAN RECIPES

Having a vegan wedding cake is a great eco-friendly choice and there are lots of options out there for your wedding day desserts. Vegan-friendly cakes are readily available to you and your baker and taste as good as the traditional recipes, trust us! Vegan recipes will also encompass a lot of your guests' dietary requirements, imagine the look on their faces when they realise they can get in on the wedding cake, too! Plus, more fed guests means less waste.

5. CAKE CUTTINGS

Tiered cakes are getting more and more complex with loads of different shapes and architecturally sculpted masterpieces. But this can mean a lot of cake is wasted as your fancy bake is carved and cut to fulfil a certain shape, so consider how much waste you could be creating. Alternatively, ask your baker to mix the cut-away sponge with flavoured buttercreams to make tasty cake pops to adorn your sweet table!

6. PORTION CONTROL

Consider how much cake you will actually need to feed your guests, a four tier cake for 50 guests may be a bit excessive and lead to lots of waste, for example. Let your baker guide you on how much you’ll need, they are the experts after all. Maybe you could freeze your top tier to enjoy on your first anniversary or child’s christening?

7. DUMMY TIERS

poshandcake.co.uk

An important characteristic of most wedding cakes are the elaborately decorated tiers just waiting to be sliced and enjoyed. But a great way to reduce waste is to utilise dummy tiers. These are fake tiers of polystyrene that stand in for your bake and your baker can ice and decorate them in the same style. They add height and drama without compromising style and they’re more budget-friendly!

8. THE LEFTOVERS

Your guests will want a reminder of your big day and as well as bundling them up with wedding favours and flower displays, they must have some cake to take! Your caterer or venue staff will usually be happy to manage dividing the cake up. This is a great way to involve those guests that couldn’t make it on the day, too. Sustainable weddings are certainly on our radar for 2023 weddings but don’t put a lot of pressure on yourself to follow every single one of these tips to the letter. Instead, prioritise the ones that resonate the most with you and your plans for the big day. If every couple utilised just some of these ideas, we’re sure the planet would thank us! WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

A brand with all things celebration at their core. Bringing joy to the everyday through design-led cards, wrap, stationery and gifts. Shop instore or online at paperchase.com

Chateau Bleu Collection evelynandelliot.co.uk

Brushed Blossoms Invite papersource.com

Pastel Blue Suite papersource.com

Frosty or Fiery? Whether you’re getting wed in the tropical climes of St. Lucia or the snowy slopes of the Swiss Alps, we’ve pinned cool stationery against warmer tones to find the perfect suite for your special day this winter!

Boho Suite

make-yourday.co.uk

Royal Red Invite pemberlyfox.com

Bespoke Wedding Invites heartinvites.com

Rustic Fabric Menu papira.ro

Thank You Card ananyacards.com

WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

Dream Elopement A stunning Santorini photoshoot celebrating the best of the island…

This gorgeous shoot celebrates love, joy and happiness with oodles of style and class. The stunning white-washed backgrounds are the perfect backdrop for the groom's striking black suit, fitted out with modern leather loafers. The handmade gown features floral appliqués, a high slit and feathers, three trends we've spotted for the 2023 season, and looks couture and elegant against the Aegean waters below. The wavy blonde locks and red lip give a touch of timeless style to the bridal look, decked out with glistening heels and teardrop earrings for a glittering detail. Tablescapes are bursting with blousy rose centrepieces, crystal-cut glassware and sparkling chandeliers for a classic wedding look, all accentuated by the gorgeous Grecian surroundings adding a glow to the destination elopement shoot.

Styled Shoot

THE DREAM TEAM PLANNING & DESIGN @DWEDDING_EVENTS PHOTOGRAPHY @VANGELISPHOTOGRAPHY FLOWERS @REDBOXDAYS HAIR AND MAKEUP @JULIAPOPOVAMUAH WEDDING VENUE @VENETSANOSWINERY BRIDAL SUITE @DANAVILLAS. INFINITYSUITES ART DE LA TABLE @SPARK_EVENTS_RENTALS CHAIRS & TABLE RENTALS @SPICY_BITES_CATERING_EVENTS CEREMONY STAGE @ILLUMINOGRAPHY STATIONERY @ COLORSOFSAND LIGHTING AND CHANDELIER RENTALS SANTORINIEVENTS CAKE @PETRANART_SANTORINI HANDMADE GOWN @MADEBRIDE BRIDAL JEWELRY @ CALDERAJEWELLERY BRIDAL SHOES @SACHLIRENE_TFOTA

WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

The bridal bouquet features elegant orchids and on-trend dried grasses for a modern floral accompaniment that brings out the florals scattered across the bridal gown. Suppliers have come together beautifully to form a stunning shoot of florals bursting from every surface, on-point fashion and classic décor. A fresh and pure style, the whites of Santorini reflect the bridal white of the gown, with flashes of skin revealed through mesh sections to add a touch of glam whilst maintaining modesty. We're head over heels for this wedding and can't think of a more fitting location than Venetsanos Winery for these gorgeous nuptials.

Destinations WH 40

Inspired

ANU, £2000 GRACELOVESLACE.CO.UK

PEARL BUCKET BAG 0711TBILISI.COM

MIRRA, £125 DUNELONDON.COM

Chic Elopement Style your getaway wedding with beachy trends and ethereal accessories… PISCES PENDANT ASTRIDANDMIYU.COM

PEARL VEIL BOW SIXSTORIES.CO.UK

PAMPAS WREATH, £34.99 GINGERRAY.CO.UK

PEARL SLICE EARRINGS ALEXISBITTAR.COM

CLOUD TRIO PEARL STUD OLIVIAANDPEARL.COM

NICOLE LIHIHOD.COM

WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

It’s all about you. YOUR STYLE, YOUR EXPERIENCE, YOUR WEDDING DRESS

www.erinkellybridal.com 01206 645005 | info@erinkellybridal.co.uk

FASHION & BEAUTY

BLAKE DRESS, GALIALAHAV.COM

AISLE READY WITH ALL THE LATEST STYLES

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Fresh off

CHARLOTTE KELLYFAETANINI.COM

the CATWALK Fashion designers have delighted us with their Autumn/Winter 2023 collections, and here are some of the favourite trends we expect to see in 2023.

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APOLLO INESDISANTO.COM

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VELVET DREAM DRESS KAVIARGAUCHE.COM

TORRE JUSTINALEXANDER.COM

Sleeves

Sleeves have become a bridal fashion staple. From A-listers to Royal family members, everyone is embracing this bridal detail. From sheer, embroidered, balloon and detachable, sleeves come in all styles, whether you are marrying on the beach or in a castle. This season, all designers have made the most of the trend and created beautiful gowns with an assortment of sleeves, allowing brides to curate their unique looks. Thanks to detachable sleeves, you can have more than one look on your wedding day.

Ruffles

Fashion

Dramatic and opulent, designers have adopted ruffles in their autumn/winter 2023 collections, making this style shine above the rest. Who says you can’t have it all on your special day? By selecting a ruffled design, you announce that you want the day to be about you - as it should be! Make the most of your bridal style, and go all out with a show-stopping gown. You can also recycle your ruffles to create a look that you can wear repeatedly.

DIAMOND GALIALAHAV.COM

CORSET RUFFLE GOWN MORILEE.COM

SOL INESDISANTO.COM

NOTO SAREHNOURI.COM

CARLOTTA JUSTINALEXANDER.COM

SADIE HALFPENNYLONDON.COM GENESIS LIHIHOD.COM

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WAVERLY KELLYFAETANINI.COM

ZANDER MAGGIESOTTERO.COM LILY-ROSE ARAVAPOLAK.COM

RHEA ELLISBRIDALS.CO.UK

MADELINE GARDNER COLLECTION MORILEE.COM

Monochrome Step out of the box as many collections have done this 2023 AW fashion season. Monochromatic styles have popped up all over the catwalks, and we love the boldness! Following tradition is a thing of the past and the bridal designers are communicating this clearly with glamorous black-and-white designs stealing the show.

BOW & GLOVES LOOK SCORCESA.COM

ASPEN MAGGIESOTTERO.COM

Something

Fashion

Blue

MADELINE GARDNER COLLECTION MORILEE.COM

Adding your 'something blue' has never been easier. Bridal designers have created daring looks that are miles away from the conventional wedding day vogue. As the seasons go by, more and more designers are incorporating blue into their dresses. Blue is now fully part of the wedding day style, from prints to blue ruffles and capes, we have never seen so many ways of utilising blue in bridal.

ANKARA CAPE & ALAINA GOWN BADGLEYMISCHKA.COM

MORNING GLORY ANNEBARGE.COM

AVIANNA BADGLEYMISCHKA.COM

MADELINE GARDNER COLLECTION MORILEE.COM

ASTRID BADGLEYMISCHKA.COM

FORZA D’AGRO SAREHNOURI.COM

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LISA GALIALAHAV.COM SERPENTINE INESDISANTO.COM

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Sparkle We expect to see more and more glitzy designs that we are sure will spark a lot of interest. Combined with high-slits, sheer designs and fun fringes, there are a lot of styles that will catch your eyes this autumn/winter 2023 season. These designs are also perfect for changing into your second wedding day look. Many of these can also be worn after your wedding for a glam party or wedding anniversary with your better half.

THARA ARAVAPOLAK.COM

‘23-107’ BERTA.COM

de.com

bonbride.com

The 4 Accessories from

the Runway shows

With every new collection comes an array of fashionable accessory pieces. Here are some of our trending favourites…

Dramatic Veils

Gloves

SLEEK GLOVES & GOWN TONIMATICEVSKI.COM

Veils are usually associated A PAIR OF HEELED MULE

with tradition, but not this SANDALS (DUNE LONDON) season! More and more

designers are embracing new veil styles. With intricate detailing, hues or length, dramatic veils are making their way into the bridal fashion world, and we are sure brides will fall head over heels for the trend.

EMBROIDERED VEIL & GLOVES HERMIONEDEPAULA.COM

GLORIA GLOVES & SOLEIL DRESS HALFPENNYLONDON.COM TARANTO VEIL JUSTINALEXANDER.COM

We’ve seen a rise in the use of gloves with the new autumn/winter 2023 collections. Once a classic bridal add-on, gloves have a completely new feel this season. There might be a bit of nostalgia, but each FLORAL NET FACE VEIL ELLISBRIDALS.CO.UK

designer has made a new version of the widely used accessory. From fingerless styles to bold designs and sheer varieties,

there’s something for every taste.

Statement Earrings

Inspired

Capes ANGELICA CAPE HALFPENNYLONDON.COM

The pièce de résistance this upcoming 2023 is the statement earring. From lengthy pendants to wow-worthy chandeliers, this is the time to

TWILIGHT EARRINGS CAROUSELJEWELS.COM

sparkle. With a beautiful updo or soft waves, an elegant pair of earrings will do the trick. The best part about accessorising with earrings is that you can wear them time and time again. There’s no better timeless accessory.

LONG ELEGANT PEARL EARRING LIDO-COLLECTION.CO.UK

CITRINE CIRCLE DROPS TATEOSSIAN.COM

LINK EARRINGS, £339 THOMASSABO.COM '2361' JULIEVINO.COM

Great for autumn and winter, capes are here to stay! A wonderful detachable detail, capes are what you need if you want a change of look from ceremony to the party. They keep you warm, but at the same time, they deliver a chic and

EMPRESS PEARL EARRINGS, £40 ANNIEHAAKDESIGNS.COM

'2407' JULIEVINO.COM

opulent touch to your wedding look. AYSHA STRAND EARRINGS, £19.50 OLIVERBONAS.COM

We also love chiffon capes for a beach elopement to flow in the wind.

A PAIR OF HEELED MULE

SANDALS (DUNE LONDON)

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Guest of Honour

GRECIAN BEAD NECKLACE ACCESSORIZE.COM

Whether you’re attending a spring affair bursting with florals and chiffon or a winter wedding with velvet and burgundy tones, snap up these looks perfect for the 2023 wedding season… JACQUARD RUFFLE GOWN, £220 ADRIANNAPAPELL.COM

KESIA DRESS THEREFORMATION.COM

JULIET GARDEN DRESS BORGODENOR.COM

BELTED SHIRT DRESS, £27.99 NEWLOOK.COM

PAYTON SATIN TOP HANDLE WHISTLES.COM

BUD EARRINGS, £75 CAROUSELJEWELS.COM GOLD SPINNING NECKLACE, £80 LILYANDROO.COM

WRAP TIE MIDI DRESS, £48 VERY.CO.UK

PAPAYA GINA SANDAL THEREFORMATION.COM

PEARL BEAD BAG, £35 ACCESSORIZE.COM

BUENA DRESS THEREFORMATION.COM

Step into Spring Embrace the blooming flowers of spring and summer with floral strappy gowns and accessorise with coral and pastel blue tones.

SATIN PARTY DRESSES TEDBAKER.COM

BLUE FLORAL GOWN THEREFORMATION.COM

Winter Warmer

The Guest Edit RANA CITRINE DROPS AURELIAANDPIERRE.COM VELVET TUX DRESS ADRIANNAPAPELL.COM

Get cosy for a winter wedding with luxurious velvet wrap dresses and sparkly heels, all warmed up with citrine and gold jewellery.

MIDNIGHT ROMY DRESS, £310 NOLALONDON.COM

BOSS STEER WATCH, £219 HUGOBOSS.COM

TEAL PLEATED DRESS COASTFASHION.COM

SPARKLY TIE DRESS ADRIANNAPAPELL.COM

DOINA WIDE CHAIN NECKLACE, £495 MONICAVINADER.COM

STAR EAR CRAWLER, £15 ACCESSORIZE.COM

OTTIMA LAPIS EARRINGS, £350 ASTLEYCLARKE.COM

ROMY TOP & STELLA SKIRT NOLALONDON.COM

CHEVRON CROSSBODY BAG, £55 OLIVERBONAS.COM

AMELIA BORDO CLUTCH, £200 HARRIETWILDE.COM

FAUX FUR JACKET, £80 VERY.CO.UK

ASTRID GALIALAHAV.COM

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Slim Ice Grey Chino tesco.com

Silver Silk Bow Tie, £39 blueeyesbowtie.com Tropical Silk Square, £105 richardandersonltd.com

Leather Boot, £135 dunelondon.com

Tan Loafer, £110 dunelondon.com

Tommy Hilfiger Watch, £179 uk.tommy.com

Brown Shell Bracelet, £225 tateossian.com

Seasonal Style Velvet Coat favourbrook.com

Sanderson Check Trouser favourbrook.com

Floral Check Pocket Square blueeyesbowties.com

No matter the weather forecast for your wedding, we have you grooms covered! We’ve paired velvet and leather pieces in green and brown tones for a crisp winter wedding and tropical cottons and beige linens to reflect the beachfront of your hot destination wedding. British Tan Notch Suit generationtux.com

Mustard Floral Tie lecolonel.com Racing Green Silk Tie, £132 richardandersonltd.com

Strawberry Thief Bow Tie, £39 blueeyesbowties.com

Red Agate Cufflinks, £395 tateossian.com

Dark Suit Ensemble edgers.com.tr

Linen Shirt tesco.com

Grosvenor Slipper, £250 dunelondon.com

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A Step

Ahead

Stay ahead of the weather with footwear suitable for snow or sand! From boots for a festive winter affair to bejewelled sandals for an intimate elopement on the beach, make sure you step out in comfort and style for your big day…

JADE, £575 FREYAROSE.COM

PINK ANKLE BOOT TKMAXX.COM

OLIYAH, £150 DUNELONDON.COM

BUTTERMILK CROC BOOT TESCO.COM

LUNA SHOES FREYAROSE.COM

FLORENCE MISTY ROSE EMMYLONDON.COM NELLY, £125 RAINBOWCLUB.CO.UK

Cold

destination

eep your ankles warm by opting for a boot option on your big day. There are plenty of designs and colours to choose from and they can be personalised to you. A winter wedding means you can be inspired by the extravagance of the festive season, so indulge in luxury velvets and shimmering silvers to add a flash of fun under your dress! FLORENCE BLOCK IVORY, £465 EMMYLONDON.COM FLORAL BOOTIES BELLABELLESHOES.COM

We love the idea of pairing lace booties with a ruffled bridal mini dress to elongate your legs, perfect for an evening dress change to dance the night away in.

Accessories DAHLIA PEARL, £265 LOEFFLERRANDALL.COM

GINA PAPAYA SANDAL, £278 THEREFORMATION.COM

VENUS VEGAN MULES, £250 BEYOND-SKIN.COM

SAMMIE LACE-UP SANDAL THEREFORMATION.COM

PEARL RUCHED SANDAL CHARLESKEITH.CO.UK

DAPHNE PLATINUM, £190 LOEFFLERRANDALL.COM

MIRELLE, £150 DUNELONDON.COM

LUNA SANDAL BELLABELLESHOES.COM

NEWLYWEDS SANDAL, £140 DUNELONDON.COM

Warm

LACE HEELS BELLABELLESHOES.COM

MUSTARD PUMP BLONDISH.COM

destination

evel up the usual holiday flip flop by choosing a bejewelled sandal, ideal for a boho beach wedding dedicated to you and your love. A trend we’re seeing in bridal shoes for warmer destinations is straps, straps, straps! A strappy heeled sandal adds a lot of modern design to your aisle style. Your feet are bound to be hurting and sweating in a hot location, so opt for a smaller heel with lots of room for your skin to breathe.

WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

We stock a wide range of wedding bands We stock a wide range of wedding bandstoto match our our wedfit diamond engagement match wedfit diamond engagementring ring ange but also offer a broad selection of shapes, range but also offer a broad selection of shapes, izessizes andand styles to meet your requirements. styles to meet your requirements.

Wedding Bands

All our bands can be made in either Platinum or 18ct White, Yellow or Rose Gold. As with any other item of jewellery, we are also able to custom make bands to your exact wishes and we have an engraver who can All our bands can be made in either Platinum or 18ct White, Yellow or Rose Gold. As with any other item inscribe any letters or dates within the band.

of jewellery, we are also able to custom make bands to your exact wishes and we have an engraver who can inscribe any letters or dates within the band. www.platformjewellers.com | 020 7430 9691 | hello@platformjewellers.com

PlatformJewellersAd.indd 1

mJewellersAd.indd 1

www.platformjewellers.com | 020 7430 9691 | hello@platformjewellers.com

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23/08/202

Inspired

GEOMETRIC EARRINGS BOULOWORLD.COM

Gold tones and pearl accents will look stunning under the warm sun. Pick simple designs, nature-inspired elements and pops of colour for your special beachside event.

TWIN PEARL RING OLIVIAANDPEARL.COM

GOLD PEARL BRACELET, £65 LILYANDROO.COM

PALM TREE PEARL EARRINGS KPEARLIES.CO.UK EVA EARRINGS, £290 LAGROTTACOLLECTIVE.COM

Match your Jewels to your Travels

Whether you’re getting hitched in the snowy mountains or on a sunny island, make sure your jewels are on point!

ENAMEL DAISY BRACELET, £39 SEOLGOLD.COM

OMBRÉ DROPS BOULOWORLD.COM

GLITZY EARRINGS, £179 THOMASSABO.COM SOLENE ETERNITY RING OR-ELLE.COM

STAR HUGGIE HOOPS ASTRIDANDMIYU.COM

For a wintery feel, opt for diamond pieces, and why not go all out with winter wonderland-inspired shapes and icy details?

NURI KESHI PEARL NECKLACE MONICAVINADER.COM

PEAR PAVE WHITE GOLD RING UK. VRAI.COM

STAR BROOCH, £398 THOMASSABO.COM

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YourHairTwo Ways Need some ideas for your hairdo? We have put together a broad selection of styles to inspire you…

DEWDROP CRESCENT, £495 HERMIONEHARBUTT.COM

Soft Curls

Let your hair down with pretty waves enriched by a whimsical hair vine. This is an effortless look you can flaunt day and night. Perfect for a boho countryside wedding, you can’t go wrong with this subtle hairstyle.

CELINE HAIRVINE, £125 DEBBIECARLISLE.COM

Half Up, half down

For an extra touch of glamour, add a swept-up look to your hairstyle. A half up, half down do suits both locks or straight hair. Make it stand out with a choice of floral pins and if you want to go that extra mile, incorporate an unfussy braid.

MODERN INFINITY COLLECTION KAVIARGAUCHE.COM

Swept-Back Sometimes less is more. If you’re going for a simple yet elegant bridal look, a swept-back hairstyle is ideal. Brides with both long and short hair can pull this off flawlessly. Remember to help pull back your hair with clips, and to complete your look, add a bold earring.

LEAF HAIRVINE CLAIREAUSTINENGLAND.COM

SMALL SYLVIE, £185 DEBBIECARLISLE.COM

“Call attention to your natural style by wearing your

hair down”

“Pop your

Hairstyles

hair up

SPARKLE HAIR PINS, £46 GLITZYSECRETS.COM

with these trendy styles” PEARL COMB & EARRINGS, £185 DEBBIECARLISLE.COM

DYNAMIC HEADPIECE MARIAELENAHEADPIECES.COM

Polished Updo

If Royal weddings have inspired your bridal look, you can’t go wrong with a polished updo adorned with a precious hairpiece. Perfect for winter weddings as well, this sleek style fits well with a ballgown or mermaid dress. Ask your hairstylist for a tight chignon and embellish it with a pin or sparkly tiara.

CHAMPAGNE SILK SCRUNCHIE, £12 SOAKANDSLEEP.COM

High-Bun

This chic updo is recommended for a city wedding or if the weather is too hot to handle! A sleek, highbun is fun, and you can accessorise it with a glitzy clip or a colourful scrunchie for a quirky effect. This kind of updo is also perfect for a change of look to take your style from day to night.

Boho Braids Soft braids are a favourite option nowadays. Graceful yet relaxed, this braided updo works beautifully with long-sleeve dresses and looks magical with lace floral details. We can see many brides adding flowers to their braids or pins to create a more refined look.

WHITE HAIR PINS CLAIREAUSTINENGLAND.COM

WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

Proverb Skin If you’re looking to build a routine with your partner as you prepare for your big day, Proverb is a wonderful natural skincare brand to lean on. Create an awesome morning routine and start the day in the best way possible with products that are kind to you and the planet. proverbskin.com

Plenaire SKIN FROSTING DEEPLY HYDRATING MASK Try the Skin Frosting Mask from the eco-friendly skincare brand Plenaire for super-nourished skin. This hero mask is perfect to use in the months preceding your wedding day, improving elasticity and calming skin with anti-inflammatory and natural ingredients. plenaire.co

A u Na ture l

Prep your body and mind early so you can be the happiest on your wedding day!

Oskia SKIN FROSTING DEEPLY HYDRATING MASK Try the Skin Frosting Mask from the eco-friendly skincare brand Plenaire for super-nourished skin. This hero mask is perfect to use in the months running up to your wedding day, improving elasticity and calming skin with anti-inflammatory and natural ingredients. oskiaskincare.com

Seaskin Life Inspired by the Mediterranean way of life, Seaskin Life cosmetics and wellness products are a treat for both your mind and body. The sustainable range supports the skin regeneration cycle and protects you from solar radiation, pollution and free radicals. Manufactured in Spain, Seaskin Life is a way of life. seaskinlife.com

irst of all, make sure your nails arrive in great shape. It’s not only about looking beautiful, your nails should also be strong and healthy. Invest in a good product such as Leighton Denny’s Hydra-Flex Nail Serum (£14 / 12ml – now available from Marks and Spencer and leightondenny.com). This is the answer to top up on vital moisture and to help hydrate, condition and improve nail flexibility thanks to a unique mix of vegan, active ingredients and a blend of essential oils. If you have never used fake nails or undergone a session of shellac or gel manicure, consider trying these out before deciding what you prefer for your wedding. Also, consider the shape and length you feel most comfortable with. Plan a few sessions with a professional and try out the best options for you. It might seem like a detail, but you don’t want any surprises on your big day!

Beauty

Nailed It! Just like your outfit and hair, your nails will also be in the spotlight on your big day, so make sure you nail your mani and pedi!

If you are used to treating your nails with pampering sessions, why not try something very bold on your special day. These days, you’ll find the most creative nail art ideas and what better way to test them than on your grand day. Of course, prepare yourself with a few sessions ahead of your date. So, when is the best time to get your nails done? Well, consider that you want them just perfect for your photos, so if you are only using nail polish, get them done on the same day. If you are opting for a semi-permanent solution then get your nails ready one or two days in advance.

What’s Trending?

CLASSIC WITH A TWIST: Opt for a wedding white or a French mani and add your own personal spin to it.

BE BOLD:

CLASSIC BLUSH:

DESTINATION INSPIRED:

Go big or go home! There’s nothing wrong with an alternative look. In fact, a

Never out of style, a blush tone is a simple yet elegant way to polish your nails. londongrace.co.uk

For a destination wedding, there’s nothing wrong with letting the location

romantic red or all-back hue is very cool.

inspire you. nailberry.co.uk

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Lancashire & Cumbria Florist & Venue Stylist T: 01253 591921 | M: 07769783723 | flowersfleetwood.co.uk

REAL WEDDINGS

JUSTIN ALEXANDER & KELSEY TURCHI

FIND OUT HOW THESE COUPLES PLANNED THEIR SPECIAL DAY

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LOS CABOS, MEXICO

VACATION IN CABOS SUPPLIED BY RWANDA STUDIO

Allison & Coby had a long, seaside celebration at the fashionable Nobu Hotel Los Cabos…

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It was November 6, 2021, when Coby proposed, and we were on vacation in Cabo. Coby had scheduled a surprise photoshoot for us. Little did he know that the ring box was visible from his back pocket, so I knew what was about to happen! We were so nervous and excited while taking photos! You can see it from our engagement day – so rigid and awkward. When looking for a wedding photographer, I wanted the exact opposite of that, and there was Josefina with Rwanda Studios! For our wedding, Coby picked November 6th, 2022, knowing he wanted our wedding day to be exactly one year from the proposal date, November 6th, 2021. We went through many cities, states, and countries, trying to decide where to host our celebration. Ultimately, we decided to get married right where it all started. We didn’t want our friends and family to feel like they “had” to go to Mexico. We wanted our guests to join us for a luxurious vacation where everyone could spend time together and get to know each other after Covid had kept us all apart. Before our wedding day, we had three full days of our families and friends connecting and enjoying themselves at Nobu. In picking a resort, we cared most about top-notch service, incredible food, luxurious amenities, and an aesthetic that would match our vision for our wedding day. Nobu exceeded our expectations! We wanted an intimate wedding with our nearest and dearest. Having our wedding at the end of the weekend also was a huge facilitator of making us feel like we could just sit back and enjoy ourselves instead of rushing to chat with all of our guests on our wedding day! It was perfect. Whilst getting ready, Coby had the time of his life with his brothers and best friends from childhood. It was fun and relaxed, just like Coby. On the other

Real Wedding

hand, I was not feeling great, I came down with the flu. The adrenaline got me through, and the moment I slipped on my dress and my dad walked into the room, my racing heart settled, and I felt a calm sense of readiness to see Coby under the chuppah. Also, the vision of being in my dress got me through. Getting to that moment made all the stress melt away - my dream was becoming a reality. Even finding my dress was kind of tough. We moved from Chicago to Arizona in January. We hadn’t booked our venue yet, but I knew I needed a dress as soon as possible to get it in time if we were going to be married in November. Unfortunately, this meant shopping for my dress alone in a new state where we knew no one! I went to several stores solo and was not lucky. Then I saw a dress on Mariee Bridal’s Instagram account, and my jaw dropped. The next day I slipped the dress on and burst into tears. It was everything I envisioned for my wedding day and more. Working in the wedding industry for years, I have seen many couples planning a wedding for everyone else but themselves. We were on that path, planning a traditional Jewish wedding for 300 guests. The moment we realised that wasn’t what we wanted, everything shifted. SUPPLIERS: STYLING AND PROPS @designandcreateevents @dress_it_ yourself_MODELS @nat_oliviaandjude deanosearle CELEBRANT @celebrantsuedob PHOTOGRAPHER @kate_swerdlow_photo_ studio VIDEOGRAPHER @kevinlinesphoto FLORIST @sarah_ maylin_flowers HAIRSTYLIST @bespokebridal_hair MAKEUP @b.mills.mua VINTAGE CROCKERY @elsierosecrockery CUPCAKES AND SWEET TREATS @atyourwishcakes WEDDING CAKES @cakewizard1 FOOD PLATTERS @grazing. together WEDDING CAR @mc_weddingcars DRINKS@ littleitalybarco WEDDING SWING @bloomandswing GARDEN GAMES @dolly_dimples_weddings CONFETTI AND BUNTING @thepartyoutlet DRESSES @heritagebrides CHAIR HIRE @ charles_hire LUXURY WEDDING BOOKLET@weditionwedding JEWELLERY@cocogreyjewellery GROOMS SUIT @ annbridalmrmackysmenswear STATIONERY @houseofhalley @ cocolemondesigns HAIR ACCESSORIES @1940bridal VENUE@

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From that point on, every decision we made was what we wanted. From the location, the number of guests, the menu, and the song selection - it was genuinely us. We made it our day, and it showed. And, secondly, hiring a full mariachi band for our cocktail hour. After the ceremony, we took our guests back down the aisle, where we stopped to take a tequila shot with the mariachi playing music and guiding us to the location for our cocktail hour. It was bizarre, hilarious, and fun! We were blessed to end up with such a fabulous team of suppliers. Josefina of Rwanda Studios, probably the coolest person I’ve ever met, captured our essence in an artful way while keeping us relaxed and natural. Her unique style and her vision for natural, authentic photos were the perfect match for how we wanted to remember our day. Pina Cate, our florist, brought our vision for a modern and chic beachside wedding to life. And, our planner really tied everything together beautifully.

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DW DW

THE DREAM TEAM VENUE: NOBU HOTEL LOS CABOS @ NOBULOSCABOS PHOTOGRAPHY: RWANDA STUDIO @RWANDASTUDIO PLANNING: THE WEDDING FACTORY @ THEWEDDINGFACTORYMEXICO FLOWERS: PINA CATE @PINACATE0202 LIGHTING: TEEVEN MAKEUP: LOS CABOS MAKEUP @ LOSCABOSMAKEUP RENTALS: DEL CABO EVENT RENTALS DRESS & SHOES: BADGLEY MISCHKA @BADGLEYMISCHKA SUIT: SUIT SUPPLY @ SUITSUPPLY GROOM’S SHOES: JOHNSTON AND MURPHY @JOHNSTONANDMURPHYPA

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Steal their

All is

Get the Look

C & n

style

o by

MANDALA CIRCLE RUG, £59 KUKOONRUGS.COM

SATIN BROOKLYN DRESS WEAREWRITTEN.COM

A tropical affair bursting with bright and vivid colour and bohemian décor to add some texture MARC JACOBS SUNGLASSES WATCHPILOT.CO.UK

OVAL RING ALICIAJDIAMONDS.COM

MIRRA, £125 DUNELONDON.COM

HIRAH STAR TOPPER QUINCEANDCOOK.CO.UK

TAN NOTCH SUIT GENERATIONTUX.COM

A fitted lace gown with a deep V neckline

BUNNY TAILS GINGERRAY.CO.UK

BAILEY MAGGIESOTTERO.COM

MELLOW DRIED BOUQUET, £55 GONETOSEED.CO.UK

MENTION WHM22 FOR 50% OFF OUR COCKTAIL HOUR BAND! (T&Cs apply)

SIENA, TUSCANY

A TUSCAN DREAM SUPPLIED BY JUSTIN ALEXANDER WARSHAW

Justin Alexander & Kelsey Justin Alexander Warshaw, CEO of the Justin Alexander group, married Kelsey Turchi in a magical wedding nestled in the Tuscan Hills of Italy…

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SEPTEMBER

We initially met at an event in New York City in January 2019. We did not have a first date until a year later, in January 2020 following a chance encounter in Tulum, Mexico. Shortly after, the COVID-19 pandemic hit but it did not stop their relationship from growing. COVID-19 allowed Kelsey and I to slow down and spend quality time together in a really difficult period, Warshaw said. Normally, I am travelling 5 months out of the year visiting our design rooms, trade shows, and clients abroad and attending international photo shoots. Instead, time was spent at home cooking, picking up new hobbies and working remotely. The situation grounded us both, together, and allowed our relationship to blossom. The highly anticipated proposal came on the heels of a romantic week-long ski vacation which included skiing, dinners, drinks, pampering and the celebration of Kelsey’s birthday. Justin commemorated the week by bringing along his Leica Sofort camera that takes Polaroids and captured moments all the way up to the proposal. I wanted to make the proposal special for Kelsey, so planning to pop the question in the charming town of Jackson Hole boasting its stunning views in the background was ideal. I collaborated with Kelsey’s family to design the engagement ring, plan the vacation and pop the question. We even arranged for her family to surprise her at lunch post-proposal and went on a snowshoeing excursion as a group. We will cherish the memories we made here forever. The wedding took place on the 30th of September in beautiful Tuscany. I was thinking modern, elegant and minimal as we wanted to draw on the natural beauty and character of the Castello di Celsa and its surroundings in Siena. I would say there are some fairytale vibes in the venue. We opted for the juxtaposition of a modern, black tie elegant wedding in this amazing, old fairytale-like castle. Our vendors were unbelievable and delivered beyond our imaginations. Our planner Luba was right when she told us how important good vendors are!

Real Wedding

Kelsey and I couldn’t have dreamt up a more magical three days of marriage celebration. We were so fortunate to have a Tuscan wedding with so much family and so many friends there to support us. The forecast called for rain, and it had been pouring all week, but the sky cleared on our wedding day just as I reached Kelsey for our first look. The rest of it was a blur, but we had an amazing night filled with beautiful words, great food, laughter, fireworks and dancing. To my wife, you were absolutely breathtaking in each look you wore! As I said in my vows, my love for you grows each and every day. Being with you makes me complete, and being away from you makes me realize how much I need you in my life. I love you! A big thanks to my dear friend and colleague Terri Hilferty for designing Kelsey’s ceremony, party and brunch dresses! You did a phenomenal job! I was glad to be a small part of Kelsey’s outfit selection as she wore a modified Bobbie gown to the reception (my favourite gown that I’ve designed) and I was able to personalize the ceremony dress and veil with Terri’s help by secretly adding a few embroidered handwritten notes. Something we would love to introduce to more brides interested in that customization as it’s fun and personal!

THE DREAM TEAM COUPLE: @JUSTWARS @KELSEYTURCHI PHOTOGRAPHY: @DAVIDBASTIANONI @ ALESSIAFRANCOPHOTOGRAPHER CATERING: @GUIDILENCICATERING FLORALS: @FLOWERSLIVING BRIDE HAIR & MAKEUP: @CHERIESPISSO WELCOME PARTY HMU: @GIULIADITERLIZZI ENTERTAINMENT/ SOUND/LIGHTING: @KALEYDO.OFFICIAL VIDEO: @ WATERFALLVISUALS_VIDEOGRAPHY Y PLANNER: @ PRIMAVERADREAMS PLANNING ASSISTANT: @DIANADAROS WEDDING VENUE: @ CASTELLODICELSA WELCOME PARTY: @ RELAISBORGOSANLUIGI STATIONERY/ILLUSTRATIONS: @LOINLONDON BRIDE’S WELCOME PARTY OUTFIT: @VIKTORROLFMARIAGE BRIDE’S CEREMONY LOOK CUSTOM:@SIGNATUREBYJA @JUSTINALEXANDER WITH HANDWRITTEN NOTES BY JUSTIN ON DRESS AND VEIL BRIDE’S RECEPTION LOOK: MODIFIED BOBBIE BY JUSTIN ALEXANDER SIGNATURE BRIDE’S PARTY DRESS CUSTOM: @SIGNATUREBYJA @JUSTINALEXANDER BRIDE’S BRUNCH LOOK CUSTOM: @BYLILLIANWEST BRIDE’S SHOES: @RENECAOVILLA @MANOLOBLAHNIK BRIDE’S RINGS: @ CASTLECOUTUREJEWELERS GROOM’S RING : @WARDSTROOTMAN ROBES: @FLORANIKROOZ BRIDESMAIDS: @DESSYGROUP TUXEDO @RALPHLAUREN GROOM’S SHOES: @ LOUBOUTINWORLD AND JORDAN’S X TRAVIS SCOTT

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Ju st

e ls e y &K

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style

ENGAGEMENT RING ALICIAJDIAMONDS.COM

A classy and modern wedding, full of glitz, glam and only the most gorgeous of gowns PEARL HUGGIE HOOPS, £89 LILYANDROO.COM

ALTERNATING SHAPES BAND UK.VRAI.COM

MARCELLA WAISTCOAT NEWANDLINGWOOD.COM

BLACK SUNGLASSES BLACKEYEWEAR.COM

BOBBIE JUSTINALEXANDER.COM

CHARLOTTE BELLABELLESHOES.COM

JULIE JUSTINALEXANDER.COM

BLOSSOM STEM, £4.99 HOMESCAPESONLINE.COM

Delicate appliqué elevates any bridal look 74

ROME, ITALY

WHEN IN ROME

Real Wedding

SUPPLIED BY ROBERTA TORRESAN

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The Couple

said “I do” in the enchanting grounds of Villa Miani near Rome… The marriage proposal was organised by my partner in order to be made on the same day as the my 28th birthday. He planned a surprise birthday party which turned into a marriage proposal. The date we chose for our nuptials was August 28, 2022. For us, August represents a very important month, it’s the month we got engaged in and also because we love the summer season. When it came to picking the venue, we didn’t have any doubts about marrying at Villa Miani. It was love at first! It doesn’t have any rivals, in our opinion. It has all the splendour and grandeur we always dreamt of for our big day, with some of the best sweeping views over Rome. We were about 110 people. We preferred to have a wedding with the people we considered the closest and most important in our lives. Every moment was special for us - it was like out of a fairytale. We were both super excited and we both shared tears of joy - it was difficult to hold in the happiness. He was in tears, and I had to keep him calm. We are two hopeless romantics, so everything about our wedding reflected this aspect. The genre we selected for our playlist was tender and sentimental. Of course, the dress I picked was a princess-style ballgown with sparkly details across it. Everything had to be just perfect, and I wanted it to feel like a love story taken out of a novel. We couldn’t have done it without our wedding planner Roberta Torresan and her staff. Down to the smallest detail, the team made sure our event turned out flawlessly.

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THE DREAM TEAM PHOTOGRAPHY: ROBERTO MARCHIONNE VIDEO @ VIDEOSTUDIOROBERTOMARCHIONNE PLANNING: ROBERTA TORRESAN @ROBERTA_TORRESAN VENUE: VILLA MIANI @VILLAMIANI_OFFICIAL RENTALS: G&G PARTY SERVICE @GEG_PARTY_SERVICE MAKEUP: CLAUDIA FERRI MAKEUP @CLAUDIAFERRIMAKEUP FLOWERS: CECCOTTI FLOWERS @CECCOTTIFLOWERS CAKE: ROSA MONTINGELLI @ROSE_CAKES_ ROME STATIONERY: CALLIGRAPHY DESIGN CALLIGRAPHYDESIGN.IT WEDDING FAVOURS: LE PICCOLE COSE MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT: BENNY FADLUN @BENNYFADLUN LIGHTING: TECNOSERVICE 2000 FIREWORKS: LA PIROTECNICA LAPIROTECNICA.IT WINE CASING: K-OVER @KOVER_LUXURY

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Steal their e

Ro b

orresan R T o rta

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style

CLASSIC BOUQUET LAVENDERGREEN.CO.UK

Nothing is more timeless than a ballroom theme! Add sparkle to your day in all the details...

SILVER SILK, £39 BLUEEYESBOWTIES.COM

DARKER BEIGE HEELS DEICHMANN.COM

MIRRA, £125 DUNELONDON.COM

ASCOT GREY GABARDINE FAVOURBROOK.COM

A fairytale gown with a glittery strapless neckline

MOONFLOWER VEIL, £149 RAINBOWCLUB.COM

GABIN, €790 LECOLONEL.COM

TEALIGHT HOLDERS IAMFY.CO

BANNOCK BALLGOWN MAGGIESOTTERO.COM/ SOTTERO-AND-MIDGLEY

SAINT LUCIA

TROPICAL CELEBRATION SUPPLIED BY AWESOME CARIBBEAN WEDDINGS

Lissa & Clément

tied the knot overlooking the glistening Caribbean waters… Before we decided to get married in Saint Lucia, we had been to Pigeon Island a couple of times in the past four years. Once, we saw the vestige of a photo booth on the cliffside from a recent wedding, and we talked about how nice it would be to get married there. Then, a few weeks after Clément proposed in the Maldives, I was informed that I was going to spend a whole year working from Saint Lucia, so we seized the occasion to make that wish come true. We got married on the 4th of June, 2022. We had more or less 100 guests. If we had done the wedding in Martinique, where we both come from, it would have been twice as much. Celebrating our wedding abroad allowed us to have a small wedding with only the people close to us in our everyday lives. We both loved being surrounded by all of our best friends. There was a lot of joy and laughter, making our day very special. To make it all happen, we had a great group of suppliers. We felt like everything was really happening when the photographer arrived to start taking photos of all of us getting ready. Luckily, the photographer put us at ease, and it was all very natural. We couldn’t have done it without our wonderful wedding planner Michele from Awesome Caribbean Weddings. We didn’t have a theme for our wedding, but we wanted to incorporate all our favourite colours. Clément chose a green suit as he knew that colour really suited him. It was a beautiful custom made design, perfect for the occasion. I knew exactly what I wanted to wear. I had picked the shape of my dress long ago. The first 00 80

SEPTEMBER

Real Wedding

time I saw the design was on the red carpet. It was Zoe Kravitz wearing it, and I fell in love immediately. Everything about our day was so special. We loved being surrounded by all of our favourite people, but at the same time it felt like we were the only two people there. We really made the most if it, and now we look back at it with smiles and happy tears. SUPPLIERS: STYLING AND PROPS @designandcreateevents @dress_it_ yourself_MODELS @nat_oliviaandjude deanosearle CELEBRANT @celebrantsuedob PHOTOGRAPHER @kate_swerdlow_photo_ studio VIDEOGRAPHER @kevinlinesphoto FLORIST @sarah_ maylin_flowers HAIRSTYLIST @bespokebridal_hair MAKEUP @b.mills.mua VINTAGE CROCKERY @elsierosecrockery CUPCAKES AND SWEET TREATS @atyourwishcakes WEDDING CAKES @cakewizard1 FOOD PLATTERS @grazing. together WEDDING CAR @mc_weddingcars DRINKS@ littleitalybarco WEDDING SWING @bloomandswing GARDEN GAMES @dolly_dimples_weddings CONFETTI AND BUNTING @thepartyoutlet DRESSES @heritagebrides CHAIR HIRE @ charles_hire LUXURY WEDDING BOOKLET@weditionwedding JEWELLERY@cocogreyjewellery GROOMS SUIT @ annbridalmrmackysmenswear STATIONERY @houseofhalley @ cocolemondesigns HAIR ACCESSORIES @1940bridal VENUE@

THE DREAM TEAM PLANNER AND DESIGNER: AWESOME CARIBBEAN WEDDINGS @AWESOMECARIBBEANWEDDINGS PHOTOGRAPHER: BELLE PORTWE @BELLEPORTWE VIDEOGRAPHER: EYEKAST BEYOND VISION @ EYEKAST_BEYONDVISION HAIR: FLORA REGIS @ REGIS_FLORA MAKEUP: HANNAH WAGSTAFF @ HANNAHWAGSTAFF1881 FLORALS: FLOWERS EXPRESS @FLOWERSEXPRESSINC BLUSH FLOWERS AND EVENTS @BLUSHFLOWERSANDEVENTS VIOLINIST: YANNICK JAMES @YANNICK_JAMES CATERERS: CHEF RICHARDSON SKINNER @ TIBANANNE CAKE: SWEETDREAMS CUSTOM CAKES @SWEETDREAMSCUSTOMCAKES

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Clément

Lis s

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A pretty affair filled with tropical details, bundles of colour and endless joy!

SAGE BALLOON GARLAND, £17.99 GINGERRAY.CO.UK

GARDEN THEME CONFETTI, £29 SHROPSHIREPETALS.COM

ELISE BELLABELLESHOES.COM

PINK LEMONADE CONFETTI PACKS, £29 SHROPSHIREPETALS.COM

PEARL NECKLACE, £145 LIDO-COLLECTION.CO.UK

DOTTY LED CANDLE, £12.50 COXANDCOX.CO.UK

ICED CAKE VANILLAPODBAKERY.COM

Couture ruched gowns add dimension and style

INFINITY COCKTAIL DRESS KAVIARGAUCHE.COM

HOPSACK COAT, £1465 RICHARDANDERSONLTD.COM

LONDON, UK

ROMANCE IN THE CITY SUPPLIED BY CAMILLA J HARDS

Elena & Jack married in the heart of Knightsbridge, London

We chose November 6th 2021 as our wedding date as we wanted to minimise the impact of COVID restrictions and possible date changes. I have always wanted an Autumn wedding so November seemed like an ideal time. We were lucky - it turned out to be the perfect date as the rules had relaxed, and all of our American guests could attend. We chose the Lanesborough Hotel because of its beautiful rooms, hospitable atmosphere, and excellent location in Knightsbridge. We selected the Lanesborough for our reception before we secured the church for our ceremony, and it must have been written in the stars as the only church that could accommodate us was a six-minute walk from the hotel! We looked at other reception venues in similar hotels, but none were as beautiful or as intimate. It was important for us to marry in a hotel as around half of our guests were coming over from America for the wedding, and we wanted them to have the ease of staying somewhere close. We had about 90 guests, which turned out to be the perfect Goldilocks number. We kept the guest list small to maintain an intimate feeling and leave us time to interact and spend time with each of our guests, especially as so many of them were flying over for the occasion. We also wanted plenty of space for a large dance floor so we could dance the night away! We chose to have a black-tie wedding as Jack loves to get dressed up, and it was so fun on the day to see everyone in their party clothes. So many people mentioned how happy they were to get an excuse to get dressed up. I wanted to use autumnal colours, so we incorporated a berry red colour into our save-the-dates and invitations. We matched my shoes with my bridesmaids’ dresses and the man of honour’s bow tie and pocket square. It was fun to incorporate it and bring in some texture with the velvet, which matched nicely with the chill

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of our November day! Sorting out my outfit for the day was a bit of a saga, but I could not have been happier with how it turned out. I initially tried on a dress that I liked, but I didn’t get that ‘wow’ feeling wearing it. I ended up buying the dress, and as soon as I got home, I realised I had made a huge mistake. A month or so later, I was out on a walk and went past Caroline Castigliano’s Atelier. In the window, I saw my dream dress. Against all odds, the amazing team at the Atelier worked their magic, and two days before I left for home, I received a call that I could come in quickly to try on the dress. As soon as I put the dress on, I had that mythical ‘Wow’ feeling, and I knew it was the one. It was a lesson for me with all the wedding choices we made - always listen to that gut feeling. I wore Harriet Wilde shoes - beautiful berry velvet heels. I’ve followed Harriet Wilde on Instagram for a while, and I knew I wanted a fun colour shoe to add some excitement to my outfit. As my something borrowed, I wore the earrings my mother wore on her wedding day: beautiful pearl drops. Jack loves dressing up in a tuxedo and was thrilled about the black-tie dress code. Jack: “However, I’ve always felt that I look better in blue rather than black, and that allowed me to try something different and stand out in a sea of sharp black tuxedos. My dear father-in-law took me to his tailor, Anderson & Sheppard on Old Burlington Street, who made me a beautiful blue velvet dinner jacket with corded peak lapels and matching turn-up cuffs. It remains my favourite piece of clothing in the wardrobe.” The day was very emotional, but I loved every minute of it! It was wonderful to see Jack standing at the end of the aisle, waiting for me and reading our vows, and hearing the beautiful readings done by my brother and sister-in-law. What is wonderful about your wedding is that there is a moment when you look around the room and realise that everyone you know and love is there, and they are all celebrating you and your love. Jack and I wrote and exchanged letters the morning of the wedding instead of doing a first look - we often write little notes and letters to each other, so this felt like a very natural and fun way to mark the day. The morning became very emotional when I read his aloud to the group. His words meant so much, and I treasure that letter. We had an impeccable team of suppliers, all headed by our fearless and lovely wedding planner Ann Beggs of Ann Nicholas Weddings. Ann, and her wonderful assistant Sarah, made the day what it was and allowed us to sit back and enjoy it. We could not have been happier with all our suppliers - each one made our wedding day very special.

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THE DREAM TEAM PLANNER: ANN NICHOLAS WEDDINGS @ANN. NICHOLAS.WEDDINGS PHOTOGRAPHER: CAMILLA J HARDS @CAMILLAJHARDSPHOTOGRAPHY VIDEO: CONFETTI & SILK @CONFETTI_AND_ SILK_FILMS FLOWERS: IVY AMELIA FLORALS @ IVYAMELIAFLORALS VENUE: THE LANESBOROUGH HOTEL @THE_LANESBOROUGH CHURCH: ST. PAUL’S, KNIGHTSBRIDGE SHOES: HARRIET WILDE @HARRIETWILDESHOES HAIR & MAKEUP: STORME MAKE-UP AND HAIR @ STORMEMAKEUPARTIST CAKE: LINDSAY PEMBERTON @LINDSAYPEMBERTONOFFICIAL DRESS: CAROLINE CASTIGLIANO @CAROLINECASTIGLIANO VEIL: PLUMPED SERPENT CT CAR: ENGLISH WEDDING CARS @ENGLISHWEDDINGCARS BAND: THE GATSBY BAND @GATSBYBAND STATIONERY: MOUNT STREET PRINTERS @MOUNTSTREETPRINTERS RINGS: QUEENSMITH @QUEENSMITH_OFFICIAL

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Ele n

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Jack

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Full of rich materials and textures, Elena & Jack's wedding mixed velvets with sparkle CLARET RED VELVET BOW, £24.95 GREENHEATH.CO.UK

GLITZY WRAP BLAZER ADRIANNAPAPELL.COM FESTIVE TABLESCAPE TRUFFLETABLESCAPES.CO.UK

BOW VEIL GIGIANDOLIVE.COM

HEIRLOOM EARRINGS, £34 GLITZYSECRETS.COM

GLITTER TEA LIGHT HOLDER, £5.99 GINGERRAY.COM

HETTY BORDO, £220 HARRIETWILDE.COM

BLUE VELVET SPORTS COAT, £1200 RICHARDANDERSONLTD.COM GENEVIEVE CAROLINECASTIGLIANO.COM

Classical satin ballgowns gleam against indulgent velvet

ROSE TIERED CAKE THETOPIARYCAKEDESIGN.COM

PLANNING

@RIGHEEPOIS

MAKE ECO-CONSCIOUS CHOICES THIS SEASON WITH EXPERT ADVICE AND TIPS

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Go All Green on Your Wedding Day

We might not instantly associate destination weddings with sustainability, but we’ve learnt that there are steps we can take to make even destination weddings more environmentally friendly. By making a few eco-conscious changes to how we plan this oneoff event, we can truly make a difference to our planet.

HERE ARE 10 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR DESTINATION WEDDING PLANNING GREENER:

Start with limiting your movements. You don’t necessarily need to fly out to visit a venue. Nowadays, you can book a remote site viewing which is just as good as seeing the place in person. Rely on your local wedding planner to show you around the location, and ask the venue manager to take plenty of photos so you can get a feel of the place.

Choose local. Not only will you help boost the local economy, but you will limit carbon emissions. Pick small and nearby wedding suppliers to help you craft your special day. From catering to florals, you can make the most of your destination wedding by limiting importation and favouring the surrounding resources - it’s best when products are handmade.

Make sure that your wedding planner and vendors are on board with your sustainable wedding. They will be the best people to help you during the planning process. They will assist you to pick out the most eco-friendly materials, help you select what is in season and know what is harmful to the environment and what is not.

Planning

Sustainable fashion is becoming more and more accessible. Source out brands that make everything in-house and limit waste. Many times choosing eco-friendly fabrics can make a difference as well. Producing a limited amount or working by order means that you will have less excess, and this way of working consumes less energy during the production process.

Paperless options - instead of sending out RSVP cards and invites, opt for e-invites. You’ll come across beautiful designs you can choose from, so you won’t have to compromise on style. If you still prefer the physical paper option, opt for a more sustainable one. Companies are using recycled or plantable seed paper instead, so you can send your invites without harming the environment.

Rethink confetti. Paper or plastic confetti is extremely harmful to the planet and animals. More and more companies are creating 100% biodegradable confetti options, many of which are beautifully coloured petals that will look magical in your wedding shots. Don’t forget to buy a small amount for each guest, limiting the waste and cost.

Dried and seasonal flowers - to help you keep things sustainable, go for seasonal blooms. Shop local and reuse the same floral compositions for your ceremony and reception. Don’t let anything go to waste by giving your guests your flower decorations to take home with them. You can also settle on using more plants instead of flowers, and another eco alternative is the choice of dried compositions and bouquets.

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10.

Everlasting favours. Now, this is where you can really make a difference and adopt sustainable solutions. Edible favours made locally, reusable gifts like a personalised wine glass, and succulent plants are lovely gifts that don’t harm the planet. These are also fashionable décor pieces that can be used as part of your table setting.

Take home the décor. When selecting your wedding ornaments, think about what can be recycled. So much gets thrown away. So when you are thinking of adding props and table adornments, think about what you and your guests can take home, or make sure everything is recyclable.

No leftovers. When deciding on your menu, don’t get carried away with the amount of options. Select your courses wisely, making sure you don’t add extra servings that might be left on the plate by your guests. Pick local and seasonal ingredients to limit your carbon footprint. You can also pick meatless options to have on your menu. For dessert, go for mono portions or choose your cake tiers based on the amount of people attending your wedding celebration. You can also plan a dessert buffet, and everything that gets left behind can be taken home by your guests.

Righe e Pois Righe e Pois specialises in sustainable weddings. How, do you ask? Well, continue reading to find out…

ecilia is the expert wedding planner from Righe e Pois, and her mission is to create personalised and eco-friendly weddings for her clients. She proposes sustainable measures to limit the impact on the planet and reduce waste. She believes that making ethical choices, such as selecting local products, can make a huge difference, and the great thing is that she will be there every step of the way: “Sustainable for me means working on an overall vision of the event with value and ethics. Furthermore, when planning my weddings, I always try to value the economic and social impact of what we are achieving.

How? For example, by providing my services in a virtual way, to limit unnecessary travel and emissions (don't worry, we will meet to visit the location and talk to suppliers but in a targeted way).” As you can see, there are many sustainable approaches within the organisation of such an important event. Cecilia believes that even in a small way, each wedding can have a positive impact on our planet and our lives. She wants each wedding to be as sustainable as the couple wishes it to be, and this includes a sustainable way to handle the budget. Whatever it is, you’ll be able to achieve everything you’ve always wanted with Righe e Pois by your side. To get in touch visit: righeepois.it, @righeepois

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Sustainable Planning With Charlotte Ricard-Quesada of La Fête

In the spirit of this issue being dedicated to sustainability, we address a subject that is a delicate one in our industry: how to be eco-friendlier and more sustainable in a world where our creations are supposed to be unique, bespoke and last for one day. Whilst we still have a long way to go, there are small steps that can be implemented and discussed throughout the wedding planning process to make all your suppliers aware that this is something important to you.

Locally sourced elements The more locally sourced your elements are, the more sustainable they will be. This can be for everything from your food and flowers, which are the most obvious ones, but can extend to the people coming to provide entertainment, your photographer and videographer. Less transport means less carbon footprint, which in turn means sustainability. Nowadays, there are amazing wedding professionals dotted around the country and the world, so don’t hesitate to hunt around for local suppliers.

Seasonally sourced products This one is particularly obvious for catering and flowers. The more seasonal the ingredients for cooking, and the flowers for your décor, the cheaper they will be, and also the less transport they will need. It is also true for elements like confetti. More and more companies are locally sourcing dried petals for confetti, which more venues prefer as they aren’t harmful to animals or historic buildings.

Compostable or recyclable If suppliers dispose of everything correctly, there is a higher chance of everything being recycled correctly and leaving less waste after the big day. The florist could also limit the usage of Oasis foam for arrangements. Stationery can also be placed in this category. It can either be made of recycled paper or you can ask your planner to collect all on-the-day stationery and recycle it.

Reusable materials Make sure to try and use elements that already exist. Nowadays, suppliers have an array of décor items and designs that have already been used. You can make these your own by mixing and matching them together to create new pieces. Keep this in mind when you are gifting your guests - get them something that they will reuse for years to come.

Transport The final and obvious one is to try and group all your guests’ transport by hiring a local company to transport them to and from your wedding. Remember that trying to be eco-friendly, will, in most cases, also be sustainable for your wallet, and stretch your budget that little further to make your big day extra special. In the end, it’s a little more work to be a sustainable couple, but it is worth it in more ways than one. la-fete.com @officiallafete

Planning Men’s Fashion SEASONAL MACARONS EMMADODICAKES.COM

ST CHRISTOPHER NECKLACE, £140 LILYANDROO.COM

Sustainable

Gifting

ORGANIC AMBER VASE, £30 FIVEANDDIME-INTERIORS.COM

PINK SHETLAND THROW, £79 COUNTRYMOUSE.CO.UK

This festive season, treat your loved ones with an eco-friendly surprise!

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KNIT SLIPPER BOOTS SHUDALIVING.COM

ECO-FRIENDLY WINES SEACHANGEWINE.COM

WAX TABLETS, £15 CONSTANTCANDLE.CO.UK

LAVENDER BLISS, £45 LITTLELOCALBOX.CO.UK

PHOTO FRAME, £25 SUNDAYSDAUGHTER.COM STORK SKY LONG KIMONO, £110 ONEHUNDREDSTARS.CO.UK

LOVELY, £13 LUSH.COM

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Top

Wedding Planners

of the World

We want to make sure your big day is planned by the best in the industry, so we bring you our stand-out experts from across the globe.

EVENTS BY LEIGH

BARBADOS

Events by Leigh is a wedding planning and décor service on the breathtaking island of Barbados. If you are looking to wed in the Caribbean, look no further. Events by Leigh is on standby to make your island wedding dreams a reality. Their motto is: ‘Your wish is our command’, and they are dedicated to providing you with a magical day, perfectly tailored to the specific wants and needs of you and your guests. Events by Leigh provides design and décor services, full wedding planning, elopement planning and wedding month management. eventsbyleigh.com

EXCLUSIVE YACHT WEDDINGS

CYPRUS

Exclusive Yacht Weddings has a fleet of twelve yachts waiting to be selected for you to celebrate your wedding day. From traditional, and elegant to understated, Exclusive Yacht Weddings on the Mediterranean Sea are the pinnacle of luxury. Alongside providing a perfect location, the team are award-winning wedding planners ready to make the running of your day onboard plain sailing! With Exclusive Yacht Weddings, you are ready to sail off into the sunset together. exclusiveyachtweddings.com

MAGICAL WEDDINGS DENMARK

Danish weddings are a modern-day fairytale, especially in the expert hands of Magical Weddings. Their experienced fullservice wedding planning team can help you every step of the way, from taking care of the paperwork to sourcing suppliers and being present with you on the big day itself. They make destination wedding planning a stress-free experience. magicalweddings.eu

Planning RIGHE E POIS

LUCCA, ITALY

Cecilia is an experienced Italian wedding planner specialising in sustainability. Couples who want an eco-friendly event can count on Righe and Pois to make it happen. Working across Tuscany and beyond, with Cecilia by your side, you’ll be able to explore the best Tuscany has to offer for love. For a romantic Italian wedding with low impact on our planet, contact Cecilia’s Righe e Pois to make it happen before your eyes. righeepois.it

AC WEDDING EVENTS

ITALY & BRATISLAVA

When planning your special day with AC Wedding Events, there’s absolutely nothing that could go wrong. Working with you throughout the entire planning process, you can count on the creative team to style a magical occasion for you and your guests. It’s not all down to the planning, there’s a design process that AC Wedding Events exceeds in. Their creative projects are thoroughly arranged with passion and skillfullness. With Antonella Carta, you can plan your ceremony, elopement or lavish wedding affair whether Italy is your destination or the historic city of Bratislava. creaeventi.com

VERBANO EVENTS

LAKE MAGGIORE, ITALY

Verbano Events is a DMC specialising in mesmerising events and weddings on the beautiful shores of Lake Maggiore, Lake Mergozzo and Lake Orta. From Stresa to Baveno, Verbano Events is a trusted wedding planning service that will follow you step by step to make sure your big day is a success from start to finish. They know the territory in and out and, for this reason, they can propose various locations, including villas and castles, and they know the top suppliers to help them make your dreams come true. verbanoevents.com

PANTA RHEI WEDDING

SICILY, ITALY

If you want your wedding to be the talk of the town for all the good reasons, then Panta Rhei Wedding are the planners you need by your side. For an unforgettable event, whether you want a traditional or extravagant day, Luca Melilli (Wedding Designer) and Franco Cannata (Floral Designer) will do whatever it takes to bring it to life. Their years of expertise, and exclusive relationships with the best vendors in Sicily, make them a perfect choice for your Sicilian destination wedding. With their creative flair and professionalism, they’ll create something one-of-a-kind just for you. pantarheiwedding.it

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Denmark for your Wedding Destination

@magicalweddingsdenmark @Magical Weddings magicalweddings.eu

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info@magicalweddings.eu Højerup, Denmark, 4660 +45 20 86 06 19

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Wedding planner on Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta and Northern Italy Your English wedding planner based in Italy Corso Garibaldi 1 , 28831 Baveno (VB) , Lake Maggiore - ITALY info@verbanoevents.com +39 0323 922917 / +393488258398 www.verbanoevents.com

Planning

PANTA RHEI

The designers for your wedding scenography

We’ve met up with Luca Melilli from Panta Rhei to find out all about destination weddings in Sicily…

ell us about your company.

Panta Rhei is a company specialising in the creation and management of all kinds of events. We work with many international planners, and we help their ideas take shape. At the core of what we do is the will to make each event an occasion everyone will remember, an unforgettable celebration with the perfect atmosphere. We are wedding designers. We work with all the elements of the design world, from floral decorations to rentals for the big day. We start by sketching what the event will look like, and from there, everything takes shape. We make sure that each design is exclusive for our client and adapts perfectly to the location. Everything is tailored so that all the wedding details flow seamlessly together.

WHERE ARE YOU BASED? We are based in the beautiful city of Catania, Sicily. As the largest island of the Mediterranean, Sicily holds unparalleled beauty and thousands of possibilities for weddings. From sea to mountains, from countryside retreats to some of the most picturesque hamlets in Italy, you’ll have lots to choose from. DO YOU HAVE A SIGNATURE STYLE? A good event planner or designer delivers something completely unique for clients. Each event requires a special touch, and when we sit down with our couples, we propose original ideas and exclusive services to make sure their special occasion stands out. We have the pleasure to work on many different projects, from weddings and anniversaries to corporate and birthday parties. All of these require distinct features and tailored styles and take on each project with a fresh approach and exclusive design. WHAT MAKES A WEDDING IN SICILY SO SPECIAL? Sicily takes the world by storm with its splendour. It’s no wonder many Italian and international celebrities decide to marry in the region. Taormina, Ragusa and Noto, just to name a few, are the destinations couples yearn for. For a romantic elopement, the Sicilian islets provide the perfect backdrop for spontaneous and laid-back events with your loved ones. WHAT DO YOU SUGGEST FOR A 2023 WINTER WEDDING? For an unforgettable winter soirée, you need to pay close attention to all the wedding details and the suppliers you pick. For a special effect, set your sights on elements such as moss, seasonal blooms, pine trees, branches, berries and crystals. These will recall the wintry feel and, at the same time, set the tone for your occasion. This way, your wedding will have a well-defined feel and design. For more information, visit pantarheiwedding.it, @pantarheiwedding

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Viajes Anita. We make your dreams of traveling a reality. +507 223-9980 / +507 851-0851 info@viajes-anita.com

Viajes Anita, with more than 40 years leading the market, is the best alternative in personal and business travel services. Our advisors will accompany you and offer models and experiences taking into account your requirements, adapting to your budget and needs. And best of all, we put at your disposal all our strategic alliances with airlines, car rental companies and hotel chains so that your travel dreams come true. panama.indd 1

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Live The World

+506 2248-2828 / +506 8544-2828

info@agenciameridianos.net

Meridianos Travel Agency, a global agency located in Costa Rica, takes you to where your senses throb with unique and safe experiences. We have nearly 30 years in the market and a wide network of strategic alliances that will make your trip an unforgettable memory. Meridianos .indd 1

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Rwanda Studio

Planning

Josefina Farhat, your Riviera Maya Fine Art Wedding Photographer…

ell us about yourself. After many years working as an art director for film and advertising, I decided to combine my creative work as a stylist with storytelling and Rwanda Studio was born. I have worked hard to bring my studies as a film and art director to weddings, where everything happens so fast and so emotionally. My goal is to highlight the beauty of each moment, the light, and what is really happening, so I do not like posed photos; although I always give small directions to achieve elegant and poetic photography. Where are you based? Rwanda is based in Mexico, constantly moving between the East (Riviera Maya) and Pacific coast of the country (Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta). Before the pandemic, I started planning to do weddings in the rest of the Caribbean, the USA and Europe, but they were suspended due to the health crisis. I’ve currently resumed working abroad again. What is special about getting married in Mexico? The beauty of getting married in Mexico is the scenery, the quality of service and the magic of its culture. Do you have a signature touch? My style of photography, and the one I look for in my team of photographers, is a cinematographic style, where nothing looks posed, where the light and the narration make the result genuine and exciting. I love cinema, and I also do fashion photography, we always try to work towards that.

My style of photos, AND THE ONE I LOOK for in my team of

photographers, is a CINEMATOGRAPHIC STYLE, where nothing looks posed, where the light and the narration make the result GENUINE AND EXCITING.

How do you make your weddings more sustainable? Years ago, I stopped delivering printed photographs and books so that I wouldn't have to handle paper and packaging of shipments. I send all the work digitally, in high resolution, so that couples can choose from more than 600 edited photos which ones to print and in what size. That is our contribution. In my personal life, I am vegan, I rescue dogs from the streets, and I am very strict when choosing the products I buy in terms of the professional ethics of the company that manufactures them. IG: @rwandastudio Web: www.rwandastudio.com WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

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Led by Charlotte Ricard-Quesada, a luxury fashion industry veteran, La Fête is the high-end wedding & event planning company with a diﬀerence, particularly in its multicultural approach. Operating from their Central London oﬃces, Charlotte and her quadrilingual team work nationwide and globally, delivering award-winning magic, with especially close ties to the UK’s leading wedding suppliers and most unique vendors. Creating memories is the company’s credo, and beautiful memories are exactly what we can promise you when you choose to work with La Fête on your big day.

www.la-fete.com • @oﬃciallafete • charlotte@la-fete.com • +44 (0)207 427 6088

Speak with the Expert

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Diana Sciarrillo from I Do, Guatemala guides us through sustainable wedding planning…

Planning

@AUGUROWEDDINGS

ow can you help couples plan a more sustainable wedding?

We always say creating a sustainable wedding is only about a “management decision” that can be done by creating a positive triple impact in business, communities and the environment. What ways can you make a wedding more sustainable? It is important to keep in mind that we must not only make a difference to the environment but also add to our community and create business opportunities. We offer our clients the opportunity to recycle almost all of the flowers they use. We also ask them if we can give out leftover food to homes and orphanages. We encourage our clients not to burn candles. Whenever possible, we advise staying away from printing material. If you want to include place cards to mark place settings, do so with items that can later be taken home and used again instead of thrown out! How have you been more sustainable? We have stopped using plastic in all of our weddings, and when we have used plastic, it has been to decorate by recycling it and creating unique centrepieces. We have also encouraged our clients to hire members of smaller communities to provide the goods or services. This has been a lovely project since it has brought income to many!

Give your top tips on how to include eco-friendly ways of organising destination weddings: • SUBSTITUTE WEDDING FAVOURS WITH RAISING FUNDS TO HELP A PARTICULAR COMMUNITY • ASK YOUR BAR TO USE FLAVOURED FILTERED WATER IN GLASS CONTAINERS INSTEAD OF HANDING OUT WATER BOTTLES • WHEN DECORATING FOR YOUR EVENT, LOOK FOR ACCESSORIES THAT CAN LATER BE USED IN YOUR NEW LOVE NEST • SHUTTLE YOUR GUESTS AS MUCH AS YOU CAN • KEEP YOUR GUEST LIST SMALL • USE DRIED (RECYCLED) FLOWERS INSTEAD OF FRESH FLOWERS WHENEVER POSSIBLE For more information visit: weddingsinguatemala.com, @idoguatemala

What do you think the industry can do to improve? As a whole, we should promote the use of recycled goods. Plan more events in the day in order to showcase the beauty of the venues and not have to spend on electricity or rely on the use of candles. We can work vendors that use local, biodegradable goods in their processes.

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JOHN NASSARI JOHN NASSARI

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AC Wedding Events

Meet Antonella Carta and get to know her wedding design world…

Fairytale weddings between Italy and Bratislava

ntonella Carta has always been passionate about events and their organisational process. In 2008, she founded AC Wedding Events, her first brand, becoming one of the first wedding planners in Sardinia and across Italy. “My mission has always been to create unique weddings, allowing the most demanding customers to live a real experience across the border. With the experience gained over the years, Antonella Carta, together with her team, is able to organise weddings throughout Italy and Europe.”

Antonella Carta now lives between Sardinia and Bratislava. She loves to travel wherever work takes her, enriching her competence and professionalism. Her style celebrates the Italian peninsula, and together with her team, they are able to interpret and create the day their clients have always wished for. They cater to event production needs, and in addition to their organisational skills, they deal with furnishings and flower design. We also care about making weddings more sustainable. We’ve stopped using plastic and also paper for napkins. Italy remains a dream for many foreigners, and many wish to get married in the “Bel Paese”, and she works tirelessly to make her couples’ dreams come true. Italy is art, culture, food and beautiful traditions. The Italian territory offers a fantastic coastline, impressive green mountains and incredibly suggestive locations. On the other hand, Bratislava has the charm of a distant era, a faraway land. Here, you can marry on a sailing boat on the Danube through the most picturesque cities, such as Vienna, Budapest and Prague. The most popular places are castles, perfect for an out-of-the-ordinary experience. creaeventi.com

Antonella started her career in Italy, more precisely in Sardinia, where she’s originally from. She grew up near the mesmerising Costa Smeralda, a splendid location blessed with incredible sceneries - from sea to mounts - and a luxurious, romantic feel. She started as a wedding designer with the mission to introduce this beautiful land to the rest of the world. She offers clients unforgettable wedding experiences and events. She nurtures her knowledge by participating in the best training events in the world. WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

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Monika Jessner ceremony speaker

“

For me, it is like a vocation to create for couples the most beautiful day in their lives and to celebrate a wonderful ceremony. I write all texts individually for the couples and design the course of the ceremony. The style ranges from romantic to adventurous, and traditional. The duration is flexible. Each speech is special and it’s about the couple and their story. All elements are integrated, vows, ring exchange, ring blessing, and various rituals - just as the couple would like. Through my large network of contacts built over the years, I can help in all matters: chauffeur service, DJ, live music in various styles (including folk music, classical, dialect traditional, instrumental only, etc). Makeup, makeup artists, hairdressers, photographers, videographers, drone, decoration, flowers, etc... Tiny-wedding or really big with lots of guests - it doesn’t matter! The ceremony can be held in German, English or bilingual. Since I love dogs very much, I am of course happy if they can be present at the ceremony!

“

Theodostraße 25, A-5020 Salzburg/Austria gettingmarriedinsalzburg@gmx.at www.gettingmarriedinsalzburg.com +43 676 4422080 @monika_zeremonienrednerin

Your Ceremony Speaker WITH HEART & PASSION

getting married in Salzburg A passionate, warm and humorous ceremony speaker for many years with a diploma in gastronomy and tourism for event and wedding planning. Active throughout Austria, as well as in Bavaria and South Tyrol. But, especially in Salzburg and the surrounding area. You can’t find a more beautiful place than Salzburg! Monika Jessner guides her couples from the beginning of the planning process until after the ceremony and is available to them almost all the way through. She finds the perfect location for the couples, whether in the city, in the baroque palace park or in the castle, on the lake, or in the mountains. No matter what wishes and ideas the couples have, she has a solution!

Celebrate with

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Create the ceremony of your dreams with Die Zeremonienrednerin in Austria…

ow did it all start for you? I'm a certified event and wedding planner and had been working for over 30 years in the tourism industry in Salzburg. Several years ago, I had a couple come to me to help them plan their wedding. They were also looking for a celebrant at the time but couldn’t find one they liked. We had a lot of video calls as the couple was from California, and I think they found out that I loved to chat and was very passionate about my job. So they asked if I wanted to celebrate the ceremony. It was such a success that I started performing ceremonies from that moment. My dream when I was young was to be a tv presenter, I also loved speaking in front of people. My profession went in a completely different direction but now, I’m able to do what I love in the wedding industry. I found my way back, and I love what I do.

Planning

What are some creative wedding trends you’ve seen lately, and what are your favourites? Weddings are becoming smaller and more intimate, but full of personality. Couples are trying to find their own ways and creating new traditions for themselves. Weddings seem to be less staged and more relaxed. I love every celebration I do. Each time is very exciting! For more information visit: gettingmarriedinsalzburg.com, @monika_zeremonienrednerin

Most celebrants have a specific style. How would you describe yours? I love my job and I put a lot of love and passion into what I do. I take my time to write the couple’s story to create an individual and magical ceremony just for them, with rituals that include family and friends. I’m also happy to cater to their needs if they want their children or even pets to take part in the celebration. To me, your wedding day is very special and everything that surrounds it has to reflect that. I try to find the most beautiful locations if my couples ask me to, and since I’m also an event planner, I have great contacts in the industry. What should a couple consider when searching for their celebrant? The chemistry between the couple and the celebrant has to be right. It’s important to maintain open and honest conversations throughout the process, and you have to build trust with the couple in order for everything to go flawlessly. How would you say you’re different from other celebrants? I am open to new ideas and I love a challenge. I don’t mind doing things differently. Once, I turned up to a ceremony in my Harley as I was coming from a retreat - the guests loved it! I also like to include pets in the ceremonies. WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

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Seasons

of Love

When it comes to your wedding flowers, one of the best ways to

be sustainable is to choose flowers that are in

season as this reduces air miles with a shorter trip from field to florist and means you can support local suppliers. This gives your wedding a better carbon footprint and also narrows down your choice of florals from an ever-increasing list! Always ask your florist which blooms they recommend for your wedding date but read on to see which flowers we think are perfect for your season and a few style tips for good measure…

Spring

his season is a prime time for an abundance of fresh, vivid flowers for a romantic, boho look. Choosing seasonal florals is a great way to save money due to the high availability and with so many choices, you can have a customised spring flower theme bursting with colour and joy! Spring bouquets are all about those pastel colours to emulate the bright and vivid season where the world comes back to life. We recommend snapdragons for your displays, these whimsical blooms come in over 60 colours and add sculpture and texture to your bouquet. They are stylish enough to be used on their own, within table displays or to add height to your very own whimsical bridal bouquet. Anemones are also great for this season as they are a very versatile choice. These graphic beauties can be interspersed in wildflower displays for a boho style with

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trailing greenery or you can choose between red, pink, purple and blue anemones to match with your modern, monochrome wedding theme. If you’re looking for more of an understated, tropical feel to your day, anthurium will fit the bill. These blooms are perfect for a minimal, classy look and are sculptural enough to stand on their own and look stylish balanced upon each placename and menu on your table setting. We think they’re a great alternative to orchids as they offer the same quirky feel. With the money you’re saving from prioritising seasonal flowers due to reducing travel costs, we think you deserve to treat yourself to these more pricey, seasonal blooms - the sweet pea. These delicate, ruffled flowers are feminine and romantic, they also have one of the biggest range of colours in the plant kingdom and look stunning nestled in your bouquet or arranged in vintage milk bottles across your venue. Spring has one of the biggest seasonal ranges of flowers and this high availability means it’s the cheapest time to embrace that big floral installation you’ve had your heart set on! We recommend padding out the bulk of the display with cheaper blooms like dusty carnations and snapdragons and plenty of trailing foliage and then interspersing with aromatic lilac sprigs to make it a treat for all the senses.

pelargoniumforeurope.com

Planning

Summer

f you’re having a summer wedding, you’ve definitely got a great season for flowers. All the wedding standards are available, such as roses and peonies, for a classic bridal bouquet. However, you can also find real statement blooms, such as sunflowers and dahlias, during the summer months. Florals seasonal to summer often reflect a classic bridal bouquet of white and green tones, emulating a royal wedding feel. Gardenias are a stunning option for a standalone bouquet due to their large size and velvety petals. They also have a strong, sweet scent and make for the perfect boutonniere for the groom.

Whether you opt for standard, David Austin or English Garden, roses are the ultimate bridal bloom to exude classical romance and love. We love a bouquet of white roses for an understated, timeless look. To level-up your roses, you could scatter freesias throughout your bouquet to add a wildflower look to juxtapose the classic style with the freesia’s bell-shaped blooms on each stem. Daisies are ideal for a summer garden theme, gerbera daisies have strong, sturdy stalks so work really well in a bouquet. Alternatively,

joannetruby.co.uk

cornflowers add a bit of texture to a rigid, white bouquet and come in pink and blue shades to add a pop of pastel colouring. You could customise your bridesmaids’ bouquets with whimsical wildflowers to contrast your timeless bundle of roses. If you want a statement flower, look no further than the dahlia. These intricately geometric blooms add bundles of texture to your bouquet. They are the perfect flower for the July and August months and have an extensive colour range from soft peaches to deep burgundy. We guarantee they will shine as part of your tablecentres, too. Sunflowers absolutely scream summer, but we understand these big, blousy blooms can seem a bit intimidating for your bouquet. Soften them with smaller flowers reflecting a yellow tone, such as daisies and chrysanthemums for a balanced bouquet. Alternatively, utilise sunflowers around your venue within your décor, they’d look fantastic in a rustic, barn space.

lillyandwild.co.uk

bloomandwild.com

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Autumn

t pays to go seasonal when selecting the flowers for your wedding, whether that’s to help the planet, the wedding budget or just to embrace the season around you. Autumn is a season heavily associated with reds and oranges and is a great opportunity to incorporate leaves and berries into your bouquet.

If you’re looking for blooms to add interest, alstroemeria is a good choice. Available in purple, red, orange and white - they fulfil all the requirements for an Autumnal colour scheme. But the star of the show with these florals is their unique speckled, blotched and striped petals to add texture to your bouquet. Bouvardia are a quintessential wedding flower with their defined tube-shape and dainty star-shaped flowers, they are reminiscent of snowdrops and lily of the valley. They look fantastic in clusters in your bridesmaid’s bouquets and you can embrace the season by buying them in reds

and peaches to lift the paler blooms. A great filler for autumnal arrangements is hypericum, with its bright berries adding a seasonal vibe to your bouquet. The yellow flowers also work well with an autumnal theme and we love seeing them used as textural buttonholes. If you’re after something more unusual, we recommend amaryllis to add some sculpture to your displays. This gloriously red flower can lift the earthy tones of accompanying roses and dahlias to create an exciting arrangement. The perfect autumnal bouquet is often striking the balance between having enough neutral blooms to ensure the striking reds can really pop! Autumn is a time abundant with harvest produce and this can easily be incorporated into your styling. Add dried oak and beech leaves to break up the rigid structure of a stiff bouquet and create new levels for a boho look. Pampas grass is super on-trend for weddings and this neutral toned grass adds texture and looks fabulous as a photo backdrop with berries and dried seed heads for a whimsical wedding theme. amarantelondon.com

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Winter

lthough winter is known as a time where nature shuts down for the season, a winter wedding theme is the perfect opportunity to embrace new textures and accessories outside of the usual blooms. As a base to build upon for your bouquets, camellias are a winter gem. Their petals are layered to add plenty of texture and with their white colouring they are ideal for a bridal bouquet to match your ivory dress. If you’re a fan of peonies but can’t find them in the winter season, ranunculus are a great alternative as they offer the same soft floral look. The textured petals make for a great classical boutonierre, and we recommend bulking out your buttonholes with red berries and sprigs of fir all tied up with twine for a winter theme. For your winter wedding venue you can’t go too far wrong with poinsettias, particularly if you’re getting married around christmas time! Pair them with simple greenery around a ceremony arch for a festive feel to your “I do’s”!

Calla lilies are similar to orchids, in that they offer that elegant look perfect for a glamorous black tie affair. They are strong enough to make an impact on their own upon table places for a timeless touch of style to a monochrome wedding theme. Embrace the festive colours of winter by tying your bouquet with red ribbon and dotting holly motifs throughout your décor, or unite your tablescapes with frosty eucalyptus strands and decorate wreaths to place around your venue. Your guests will feel as though they’re walking into a winter wonderland!

Pair the florals with simple greenery around a ceremony arch for a festive feel to your “I do’s”!

edenweddings.co.uk

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Let’s Pop the Question! The first step to your wedding plans is that magical proposal. But, even though you’re sure they will say yes and you’ve secured the all-important ring, it can be a really daunting experience! Let us take the pressure off with our top suggestions for a romantic proposal that will go off without a hitch.

1.Recreate your First Date

2. New Year Proposal

Sometimes it’s best to look to the past for inspiration and

Start the new year off with a bang by using that 3,

where better than your first moments together? Book a table

2, 1 countdown to pop the question. With the

or that special restaurant or bar where you initially met and

bubbly to hand and a romantic firework display as

reminisce on your memories together and see if they’d like to

company, it’s the perfect start to a brand new year

spend forever making more!

with your love!

3. Romantic Room for Two Nothing says romance like a weekend getaway to a luxury hotel for a chance to connect and fall even further in love. Adare Manor at Limerick in Ireland offers magical proposal packages, why not make a special evening even more memorable by surprising your other half with a room brimming with balloons and confetti or during a private cinema screening or falconry display? adaremanor.com

4. Skating in a Winter Wonderland Winter in New York is the ultimate proposal location and the Rockefeller Center is there to turn a magical day into a lifechanging one! Ice skate on The Rink with your love and watch as the crowds disperse and your choice of song echoes around you, leaving you alone with just a question and a ring. Who could say no to such a romantic proposal? rockefellercenter.com/attractions/the-rink-at-rockefellercenter/

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5. Stairway to Heaven Some couples are seeking that ideal Instagrammable proposal location, and the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel in London has partnered with luxury proposal planners, The One Romance, to make your dreams come true! The iconic hotel’s staircase will be flooded with flowers and lights - leading you to a three-course dinner to toast your love. marriot.co.uk/renaissance/london Cameo Photography

Planning

6. Travel the World A romantic holiday is a popular place to propose and here are our favourite locations. Of course, Paris as the city of love

7. Beach Proposal

is the world’s top choice and with the glittering Eiffel Tower

Wherever you are in the world, beaches are a super romantic

behind you and the music of violins swelling, we can see why!

location, just look at Kourtney and Travis Barker! Set up a

Florence in Italy is another great choice for cultured, arty

picnic with bubbles and blankets to get cosy with your love in

couples or the romance of a Santorini sunset is ideal for a

the UK, or while you’re on holiday abroad why not get your

memory to treasure for life.

hotel to help organise a proposal with candles and ‘marry me?’ carved into the sand?

8. Recruit your Pets We are seeing a lot of couples utilise their furry friends to help pop that all-important question. No matter the size of your pets, you can get them involved in your plans. You could propose on your favourite dog walk route you love to do together or loop the ring around a ribbon hanging from your bunny’s neck for the pawfect proposal!

9. Under the Sea Show the depths of your love with a spectacular underwater proposal. At Sun Siyam Iru Veli Maldives, the expert scuba diving team can guide you along the colourful house reef, where tropical fish and corals will fill your partner with wonder. Just when it couldn’t get better, surprise them with a ring and gesture ‘I Do’ as the instructors capture it all on a GoPro! sunsiyam.com/sun-siyam-iru-veli/

10. Floating Dinner Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives will make your engagement extraordinary. Take a speedboat to their secluded floating platform in the middle of the turquoise lagoon and enjoy an intimate dinner with your soulmate as the sun sets to reveal a sky full of stars. Each course is delivered to you exclusively by boat, we can’t think of anything more romantic! sunsiyam.com/sun-siyam-olhuveli/

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Plan Your Landmark Proposal at

magine gliding out onto sparkling ice, hand in hand, as the glistening Christmas tree lights up New York’s most iconic skating destination. Set in the heart of Manhattan on an enchanting winter’s night, we can’t think of anywhere more magical to get down on one knee than at The Rink at Rockefeller Center.

changing gift this Christmas or you want to add a whole new layer of meaning to Valentine’s Day, a landmark proposal at The Rink at Rockefeller Center will provide you with an unforgettable start to your next chapter as an engaged couple.

At The Rink, your special moment on the ice will reach new heights. At the base of 30 Rockefeller Plaza, one of New York’s most famous buildings, its quintessential atmosphere at Christmas time makes it one of the most picturesque places on earth to pop the big question.

To plan your special moment at The Rink, visit rockefellercenter.com or email therink@rockefellercenter.com

Every evening throughout the festive season, the entire Rockefeller Center campus is illuminated with the spirit of romance. Situated next to the colossal Christmas tree and the majestic Greek statue of Prometheus, the personalised Special Moments Packages at The Rink will help you plan a seamless surprise with all of your loved ones watching on. What begins as a festive date night spent laughing together as you gain confidence on the ice, could turn into something beyond all expectations…As your skating session comes to an end, the rink will begin to clear and your favourite song will start to echo through the speakers. What at first might feel like a fun coincidence will soon turn into the joyful realisation that it was all planned, leaving just the two of you in the centre with a beautiful ring and a promise! As the magic unfolds, the people of New York will gather around from above and at rink level to cheer you on, and the emotional round of applause will be a feeling you’ll never forget. With a resounding ‘Yes!’, The Rink staff will be there to capture the moment with your new fiancé, or a professional photographer can be waiting on the landing platform to get the perfect shot. At the Rockefeller Center, you can trust their experienced team to create an everlasting memory. From November to mid-March, the ice rink provides a movie-like backdrop to your love story. Whether you dream of offering a life124

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Be My Valentine

Need a little inspiration for this Valentine’s Day? We have beautiful gifts for her or him!

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VENUES

WITH SUSTAINABILITY AT THE CORE, THESE LOCATIONS ARE ALL YOU NEED FOR AN ECO-FRIENDLY DESTINATION WEDDING

VILLA CIMENA

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Eco-Venues

Your venue is a reflection of your wedding wishes when it is all dressed up with your décor and styling, but one of the most important themes to consider is what impact your big day will have on the planet. Choose from one of these ecoconscious wedding venues and take care of your wishes and the planet in one go!

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Six Se ns es, Douro Valley

Portugal’s best-kept secret, everyone is welcome at this stunning home from home with suites, rooms and villas perfect to host your big day. Dedicated to The Forest Restoration Project, Six Senses take great pride and pleasure in nursing the community forest back to health and making it a safe home to surround your big day. Say ‘I do’ at Duoro Valley, a very special setting for a celebration touched with the romance of the 19th century, the sun-kissed valley creates memories that will last a lifetime. Their elopement package is perfect for a small, intimate wedding surrounded by your closest loved ones and their friendly and experienced team is on hand to help with all the details so you can relax and enjoy one of Portugal’s most undiscovered hideaways and oldest wine regions in the world. Including a complimentary manicure, pedicure and Six Senses Signature couples massage, they will ensure you are prepped and relaxed ready for your big day celebrations. sixsenses.com/en/resorts/douro-valley

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M o n t p e li e r Pl ant at i o n & Be ach

A boutique hideaway in the heart of the Caribbean, this hotel is idyllically situated 750 feet above the Caribbean Sea in the foothills of Nevis Peak. Surrounded by 60 acres of lush tropical gardens and built around one of the island’s original 18th-century sugar plantations, this charming venue is aware of its ecological impact and is ideal for your destination wedding. Live the romance of your unforgettable day in lush green landscapes of this Nevis hotel or have a beach wedding on their private secluded beach, both of which promising stunning panoramic views and privacy for you. From pre-wedding spa treatments and gourmet wedding menus to professional photography and a stylish venue design, Montpelier Plantation & Beach can make your fairytale wedding dreams come true. Music is an exciting feature at this venue, they offer steel bands, string bands, a jazz pianist or a local band for your big day to give you a taste of the local reggae lifestyle and dance the night away at this stunning venue! montpeliernevis.com/the-plantation

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ldives a M e h T , d n la Helengeli Is OBLU NAT U R E Helengeli

Located at the tip of the North Malé Atoll, OBLU NATURE is an intimate coral islet where you can unwind. Accessed via an exhilarating 50-minute speedboat ride from the international airport, you’ll be greeted by turquoise waters lapping at a veil of white sands. A romantic beach ceremony is offered here with love, laughter and your very own happy ever after! Imagine yourself hand in hand with your true love, awash with the glow of the colourful Maldivian sunset on a white, sandy beach, it will be a memory to last a lifetime. Exchange your vows surrounded by the sound of the beating Bodu Beru drums, then attend a three-tier cake-cutting ceremony and food for you and six guests, it’s the intimate beach ceremony of your dreams. Plus, as a natural Maldivian island, the house reef is teeming with marine life. Recognised as a Green Globe Certified Resort, the team are proud to have a no-plastic policy, a thriving staff vegetable patch and on-site desalination plant to purify the resort’s drinking water. coloursofoblu.com/oblu-nature-helengeli

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H i lt o n S e y che l les La b r iz R e s o r t & S p a

Escape to the only tropical resort on Seychelles’ Silhouette Island at the Hilton Labriz Resort & Spa. Surrounded by a Silhouette Marine park and located on an island that is 93% a National Park, enjoy a wedding and honeymoon sandwiched between white sand beaches and forested mountains. The ideal venue for a magical wedding, say ‘I do’ with the sun over your head, the sparkling sea as a backdrop and sand between your toes! As the only resort on the island, they offer total privacy and seclusion for an intimate ceremony on the beach in a poetic union between nature and luxury. With beauty, wellness, florals, photography and music add-ons all available to you, their specialised wedding team and event planners are prepared for all your dream wedding wishes! Their gorgeous beachfront villas are the tropical escape you have been dreaming of with private plunge pools, direct beach access and spectacular views of the Indian Ocean. Explore the island with diving, snorkelling, boat excursions and more to get your married life off to the best start! hilton.com/en/hotels/sezlbhi-hilton-seychelles-labriz-resort-and-spa/ WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

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zil I t a c a r é, B r a Ba r r acu d a H o t el

An untouched slice of paradise in Brazil’s beautiful Itacaré, the Barracuda Hotel & Villas are located in a tiny cove part-circled by the deep green Atlantic Forest. This secluded all-suite retreat is a getaway-from-it-all destination, blending Bahian roots with the Swedish owner’s heritage for a sustainable haven perfect for your eco-conscious wedding. The community initiatives also give back to the area, using a local workforce to create a symbiotic balance between the venue and the environment, including certified wood materials carefully constructed into stunning pergolas to flood every room with natural light. With a selection of forest-view suites and extensive villas with private pools and loungers, you can rest assured that your guests will be looked after in this eco-lover’s paradise! You can even venture out towards the beach to discover some of Bahia’s most pristine stretches of coastline as you paddle out on a surf class or guided tour during your wedding weekend celebrations. slh.com/hotels/barracuda-hotel-and-villas

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Casa Cook E l Go u na

Set against a backdrop of azure blue lagoons, sweeping vistas and rolling dunes, Casa Cook El Gouna is the perfect base to explore Egypt’s vast natural landscapes. A private beach offers ultimate seclusion for you and your love, while the bustling city of El Gouna is only a short distance away for you to explore the treasures that Egypt’s urban space has to offer. This remote desert venue and beachfront hideaway is ideal to unplug with your partner or loved ones and celebrate your marriage. The décor makes the most of what the natural world has to offer with raw wooden furnishings and tarnished ceramics whilst still staying true to the roots of regal Egyptian forms and shapes. An average day at Casa Cook is everything you could wish for, whether you go diving with dolphins in the clear blue lagoons or sweep through the sand dunes on a desert safari, you can make memories to treasure in this magical location. casacook.com/casa-cook-el-gouna

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Hard Rock Hotel Davos Tobelmühlestrasse 2, 7270 Davos Platz, Switzerland www.hardrockhotels.com/davos

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M o n t a g e De e r Va l l e y

An elevated alpine escape, adventure awaits you in Montage Deer Valley in Park City! The pinnacle of romance, their impeccable team of event specialists are dedicated to ensuring your wedding is a memorable celebration. From the alpine vistas of the Grand Lawn to the traditional elegance of the Grand Ballroom, this venue can host any size celebration from an intimate rehearsal dinner for 25 guests to a magnificent gathering of 400 of your favourite people! Their masterful chefs are experts in creating custom menus and cakes that reflect your personal taste, using organic ingredients chosen by their professional foragers from small family farms and rare artisanal producers, so the planet is kept in mind. Their accomplished wedding Sommelier can even suggest custom wine pairings from their extensive cellar to complement each course. The wedding team can assist with supplier recommendations to soothe your wedmin nerves and suggest spa treatments and salon services to get you prepped and pampered for your mountain magic day! montagehotels.com/deervalley/

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n, I taly Luxury and exclusive elegance, Villa Cimena offers a Villa Cimena

prestigious location on the outskirts of Turin for events of the highest level. With so many fantastic backdrops for your big day, this Italian venue oozes charm and opulence. At the end of the tree-lined access avenue, lie two large semi-circular stairways leading to the garden of delight, a refined terrace of flower beds and irregular paths perfect for your wedding day snaps. The style continues inside with excessive Regency-style décor in the form of glittering chandeliers and gilded frames, a gorgeous backdrop to your wedding. This historic Piedmontese residence lends itself to being the scene of unforgettable events and exclusive weddings, with the staff on hand to meet your every need for the highest level of elegance and refinement. Their newly built swimming pool completes the outdoor environments that can be used for exclusive events in a return to the natural world. So, for a wedding filled with charm and character, Villa Cimena is the place to go. villa-cimena.it

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“Villa Cimena, full of history and art, the perfect setting for your dream day”

@villa cimena villa-cimena.it/en

@villacimena

info@villa-cimena.it

+39 349 9369097

Strada Cimenasco, 113 - 10090 Castagneto Po TORINO

ROMANTIC HIDEWAY A slice of Sicilian paradise where nature and tranquility reign CONTRADA SAN MICHELE 96100 SIRACUSA ITALY

INFO INFO AND RESERVATIONS info@donnacoraly.it Tel. +39 0931 17 99 925 (from 9AM to 4:30PM) RESERVATIONS Tel. +39 345 70 18 083 reservations@donnacoraly.it

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2956 2956Mountain MountainRoad, Road,Montgomery MontgomeryCenter, Center,VT VT05471 05471| |(802) (802)326-3130 326-3130| |stay@croftersgreen.com stay@croftersgreen.com| |croftersgreen.com croftersgreen.com

2956 Mountain Road, Montgomery Center, VT 05471 | (802) 326-3130 | stay@croftersgreen.com | croftersgreen.co

Inspired

Wefree wonWedding! a We are happy to Announce “Let Blame Her Ranch Pay For Your Wedding" has picked Theresa and Joseph for a free wedding at BHR

Linda Blamer, owner of Blame Her Ranch outside Santa Fe, NM. - blameherranch.com

lame Her Ranch are delighted to share the winning submission from their free wedding competition! "First let me say this is an amazing opportunity you have given us, from the bottom of my heart and many others thank you. I would like to begin by giving you a little background of myself and my fiancé. I was a single mother of 3 for 6 years before I met the love of my life two years ago. He completely came out of nowhere and made all my dreams come true I can't thank God enough for him. So, about a year and a half ago I stumbled across Blame Her Ranch and to say I fell in love with the place is an understatement. I knew this was the place I wanted to start the rest of my life exchanging vows and becoming one with the man God created just for me. So, I convinced my fiancé that I had found our venue and we went to see it back in July. It was everything I could have dreamed of and more, I envisioned the entire wedding. On the Friday I would love to have the dinner rehearsal in the barn under the lights surrounded by my family and wedding party. And then Saturday I would love nothing more than to get ready in that beautiful master bedroom and walk through those beautiful gates in my white dress to see everything I've ever wanted staring back at me." "After exchanging our vows, we would take some extraordinary pictures from around the property while our guest enjoys cocktails. Then we would join our family and friends for dinner and a night of dancing in front of the pool under the lights. I know you may hear more elaborate wedding details and stories that are more compelling than mine, but my love story is my favourite and there would be no other place I would rather marry my best friend. Thank you so much for having us!" Follow us in the months to come on all of Theresa and Joseph's wedding plans as details unfold.

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TRAVEL

UNCOVER THE TOP WORLDWIDE RESORTS FOR YOUR ROMANTIC WEDDING AND HONEYMOON ABROAD…

OUR GOLD GUIDE Special

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Away

Isles When the Indian Ocean comes to mind, we think of silky white sands, crystal clear waters and bright blue skies… it forever paints a picture of paradise. There’s no denying that this tropical part of the world is one of the most sought-after locations for romantic escapes, whether that’s to pop the question, host your ‘I Dos’ or relax after the big day with a castaway honeymoon. For couples who want a barefoot beach ceremony or an elegant soirée under starlit skies, the Indian Ocean islands have a winning combination of pristine coastlines, luxury resorts and unrivalled hospitality to help you throw the ultimate wedding party. Read on to discover our top destinations and honeymoon resorts to inspire your special celebrations in the Indian Ocean...

Maldives Imagine a sandy wedding aisle facing the turquoise lagoon, where a floral canopy frames a picture-perfect beach backdrop for your symbolic blessing or renewal of vows. The Maldives is one of the most popular spots for destination weddings and honeymoons worldwide, and it’s easy to see why. Each exotic resort is situated on its own private island, where you’ll all be able to bask in the romance of the destination and make everlasting memories together. With all-inclusive plans, spectacular overwater villas and an endless variety of water sports to keep you busy from morning until night, hosting your wedding celebrations in the Maldives will feel like a once-in-a-lifetime ticket for all of your nearest and dearest. The dedicated staff will help you every step of the way, from detailed planning to on-the-day coordination. With epic photo opportunities and heavenly honeymoon suites where the sound of the ocean caresses you to sleep, there is nowhere else on earth quite like the Maldives. How do we get married in the Maldives? While legal marriage in the Maldives isn’t possible for foreign travellers, couples can complete the paperwork in their home country before continuing their celebrations abroad with a symbolic ceremony and reception on their chosen Maldivian island. When is the best time for a wedding in the Maldives? The most popular time to plan a wedding in the Maldives is the dry season between December and April, although the average temperatures stay wonderfully warm at 26 to 31°C year-round.

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JA Manafaru Private Island, Maldives Dreaming of a desert island escape? JA Manafaru offers a quintessential castaway experience with the inviting addition of luxury overwater villas, world-class dining outlets and a Calm Spa Sanctuary. Awarded the ‘World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination’ at the World Travel Awards in 2022, this private island resort has been internationally recognised for its unrivalled romantic offering. Located on the northernmost atoll, JA Manafaru is an exquisite faraway island for couples seeking a treasured moment in paradise. Whether you want to enjoy a picnic on an uninhabited island, sail away on a sunset dolphin cruise, or confess your love with a traditional Elder’s wedding blessing, JA Manafaru will ensure you have a trip of a lifetime. jaresortshotels.com/maldives/ja-manafaru

Reethi Beach Resort, Maldives At Reethi Beach Resort, you can experience a unique honeymoon in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, where squadrons of majestic manta rays flock to Hanifaru Bay from June to October. The marine life in the Baa atoll is unparalleled and aqua-loving couples come from all over the world to witness it for themselves. Let Reethi Beach become your gateway to the Indian Ocean, where jungle foliage meets heavenly white beaches and the turquoise lagoon beyond. From the postcard-worthy water villas to the Coconut Spa and the 5* PADI Dive Centre, the resort has been carefully designed to give you a taste of paradise on land and under the sea. With the dedicated team by your side, every day at Reethi Beach is a tropical fairytale. reethibeach.com B es t fo r U nd er w at er E nc ou nt er s

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Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa Inspired by the beauty of the marine life that surrounds it, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa in the Lhaviyani Atoll should be on your honeymoon radar. The Robinson Crusoe-like island effortlessly merges the luxury of 5* hospitality with the pristine natural environment, and in just a few steps you can walk from one of the six fine-dining restaurants to the glistening waters of the lagoon. At Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, there are plenty of stand-out eco-friendly initiatives, including The Greenhouse hydroponic farm that provides ingredients for the restaurants and The Marine Hub, where you can take part in the resort’s sustainability programs, such as marine conservation talks and mangrove planting. marriott.com/en-us/hotels/mlemd-le-meridien-maldives-resort-and-spa/

Villa Hotels and Resorts Maldives This collection of award-winning Maldivian resorts has something for everyone. From the family-friendly Sun Island Resort & Spa to the premium Royal Island Resort & Spa in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the oh-so-romantic Paradise Island Resort for starry-eyed lovers. Each of the resort trio has a diff erent vibe and appeal, but they all share the same legendary service that promises you an unforgettable honeymoon or a perfectly planned celebration with your loved ones. With varied culinary experiences and unlimited land and water sports activities including snorkelling, submarine trips, deep sea fi shing and seaplane rides, the true Villa Hotels & Resorts experience will leave you with extraordinary island memories. villahotels.com/ Best for Activity & e Adventur

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Mauritius

Nestled between the crystal clear coastlines, soaring mountains and lush rainforest, Mauritius has a spectacular variety of resort backdrops to plan your tropical wedding day. With a unique immigration history, the island has established itself as one of the most diverse countries on the planet, with a melting pot of vivid festivals, flavoursome Creole cuisine and a friendly community that will welcome your bridal party with open arms. With exclusive one-wedding-per-day policies, the luxury resorts on the island will prioritise your special day and the dedicated staff will help you perfect every final detail. Another huge draw is that marriages on the island are legally recognised by UK law, making it easy to officially tie the knot in Mauritius with all of your friends and family watching on. What documents do we need to marry in Mauritius? At least eight weeks before the wedding, you need to send copies of your passports, re-issued birth certificates, a Decree Absolute (if divorced), a Deed Poll (if your name has changed) and a Death Certificate (if widowed). Don’t forget to bring the original documents with you to Mauritius! Do we need witnesses for a wedding in Mauritius? Two witnesses over the age of 18 are required by law. However, if you are hoping for an intimate island elopement, your chosen resort can often arrange the witnesses for you.

Beachcomber Resorts & Hotels, Mauritius

Shanti Maurice, Mauritius

If you’re looking for a destination wedding venue in Mauritius, we can’t think of anywhere more idyllic than Beachcomber Resorts & Hotels. As the most established resort group on the island, their eight hotels have a winning combination of luxury accommodations, breathtaking event spaces, world-class spas and unrivalled hospitality. While each resort has its own character and style, they all guarantee a one-wedding-per-day policy. So, whether you’d like to marry at sunset on the beach, host a candlelit reception at an oceanfront restaurant or plan an adventure-filled honeymoon, you can count on your personal Beachcomber wedding planner to help you plan a stress-free celebration in a beautiful and secluded setting. beachcombertours.uk/destinations/mauritius/

For a tropical wedding or honeymoon that awakens the senses and rejuvenates the soul, Shanti Maurice provides the height of romance in the Indian Ocean. Fringed by powderwhite beaches and home to a variety of delicious restaurants, secluded accommodations and a dedicated wedding pavilion, there’s so much to experience at this beautiful Mauritian hideaway. Enjoy uninterrupted views of the ocean lagoon from your villa or suite, take a dip in your private pool and explore the enchanting gardens filled with fragrant flowers and a melody of birdsong. To send you into an even deeper state of relaxation, the extensive menu at the wellness spa even includes the ancient practices of Ayurveda, Yoga and Watsu. shantimaurice.com

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Sri Lanka

If a mix of culture, nature and history is what you are looking for on your next romantic escape, Sri Lanka has it all! It’s a destination brimming with timeless temples, barely trodden beaches, flavourful food and an awe-inspiring variety of natural landscapes, allowing you to start your day with a safari tour and end it with a sunset surf on the coast. Across the tear-shaped isle, there is a wide variety of luxury boutique hotels with high levels of service and hospitality, making it an alluring choice for destination weddings as well as tropical honeymoons. From lush garden ceremonies surrounded by tea fields to elopements on golden sands, Sri Lanka will capture your heart and provide the best setting to start your next chapter. How long do you have to be in Sri Lanka before your wedding day? Sri Lankan law requires foreigners to spend at least four days (three nights) in Sri Lanka before notifying a marriage registrar of the intended marriage. What traditions can we incorporate into our destination wedding in Sri Lanka? For something spectacular, your wedding planner could organise a majestic elephant to take you to your ceremony, or why not hire a ‘poruwa’, a beautifully decorated wooden platform, while a troupe of drummers and dancers set the scene as you make your way to the aisle?

Wellness Ceylon by HotelsHippo.com, Sri Lanka For rejuvenating wellness tours, ayurvedic treatment sessions and nature adventures around Sri Lanka, look no further than Wellness Ceylon by HotelsHippo.com. The easy booking platform allows you to find luxe accommodations at great prices, book unique and exciting tours and create an itinerary to suit your personal honeymoon plans. From serene spa retreats with ayurvedic doctors to guided hiking trips that help you discover the destination’s rich biodiversity, Wellness Ceylon will help you create unique and inspiring travel stories to take home with you. hotelshippo.com

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MAURITIUS

Luxury weddings & honeymoons

SAVE* 30%

Create your special occasion with the Indian Ocean experts

Magical Mauritius is the perfect setting for your blissful wedding or honeymoon. Glorious palm-fringed beaches, crystal lagoons, verdant peaks and an exotic mixture of cultures and cuisines all waiting to be discovered. Once experienced, the charm of this enchanting island will stay with you forever, and we’ll help you make the most of it. Choose Beachcomber for your wedding or honeymoon and you’ll enjoy exceptional luxury, the very best beach locations, and our impeccable attention to detail, including your own personal wedding planner. Plus, we guarantee only one wedding a day at all of our eight hotels, giving you an exclusive day you’ll cherish forever.

• Luxurious accommodation • Delectable cuisine • Indulgent spas • Fantastic water sports • Outstanding all-inclusive options • Superb honeymoon offers • Only one wedding a day, guaranteed

Start planning your Mauritius wedding or honeymoon today. Call us on 01483 445 610 or visit www.beachcombertours.uk

*30% saving applies to honeymoon accommodation costs at the Beachcomber hotels in Mauritius, for travel by 31 October 2023.

ABTA No.V1892

Treasures of Asia Y

ou’ll find endless inspiration for your destination wedding and honeymoon plans in the world's largest and most diverse continent. Asia also has claim over the highest and lowest points on the earth's surface, meaning that you can marry at the very top of a mountain or say your vows at sea level, with the gentle waves lapping at the shore. With thousands of luxury hotels and venues across the east, couples will be blown away by the variety of wedding suppliers and honeymoon activities to enjoy at their chosen resort. From extensive hotel amenities and high accommodation standards to venue accessibility and quality wedding packages, these are the top priorities you need to consider when deciding on your big day away. But before you start getting down to the details, think about where you envision your dream wedding and honeymoon…is a beach backdrop your INDIA style? A lush rainforest setting? Or somewhere with lots of attractions and activities to entertain your As the second-most populous country in the guests? Here are our top picks for celebrating your world, India is teeming with life and provides a magical nuptials in Asia… mosaic of colourful multicultural experiences. From the snow-capped Himalayan mountains to the peaceful Keralan backwaters, there are countless adventures to be had in its rich and diverse landscape. Whether you want to tour the Golden Triangle, spot Bengal tigers in the rainforest, or meditate in the spiritual home of yoga, it's an unforgettable destination that will capture your heart and soul. One of the bestknown Wonders of the World is of course the Taj Mahal, built by King Shah Jahan in memory of his wife. Standing there as the sun rises over the marble mosque is a mesmerising vision to behold.

NEEMRANA HOTELS Spellbinding architecture and storied heritage come together at Neemrana Hotels to deliver romantic experiences like no other. Scattered across the beautiful Indian landscape, the collection of Neemrana Hotels immerses you in the deep-rooted culture of each region, creating memories that will last long after you return home. After the careful restoration and revitalisation of 18 spectacular Indian ruins, the hotel group offers a unique insight into India’s past, blended with a luxury hospitality experience that’s forever in keeping with the present day. Hosting your destination wedding with Neemrana will promise a spectacular day in royal style, with timeless photo backdrops, indulgent banquets and flawless service from start to finish. 148

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JORDAN At the crossroads of Asia, Africa and Europe, Jordan is an awe-inspiring destination in the Levant region for couple getaways. With jaw-dropping lunar-like deserts in Wadi Rum and UNESCO World Heritage-listed ancient ruins in the red stone city of Petra, Jordan is a place where time stands still and you can marvel at the traces of multiple bygone civilisations. From historic tours of the Jordan Archaeological Museum in Amman to floating in the warm, salty Dead Sea at the lowest point on the planet, there are endless activities and stunning photo backdrops for your destination wedding and honeymoon in Jordan.

HYATT REGENCY AQABA AYLA RESORT Enveloped by breathtaking mountain landscapes and sparkling blue lagoons, the Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort would make an extraordinary backdrop to your wedding weekend in Jordan. With all the latest technology and amenities fitted into each of the marina-facing bedroom suites and the lavish Regency Ballroom event space, you and your guests will be guaranteed to have a seamless celebration. Additional facilities include a 24-hour gym, five dining experiences and an immaculate 18-hole golf course, making an ideal icebreaker as guests settle into the hotel. Alternatively, the Aqua Spa staff can recommend a rejuvenating Turkish Hammam treatment after your flight, making for the perfect pre-wedding ritual. hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/jordan/hyattregency-aqaba-ayla-resort/aqjra?src=corp_ lclb_gmb_seo_aqjraw

THAILAND Cherished as the ‘Land of Smiles’, you are guaranteed to have a very happy honeymoon in this uplifting destination in the heart of Southeast Asia. Thailand’s warm and welcoming people will go above and beyond to make your stay special, by inviting you to discover their magnificent landscapes, cultural treasures and wealth of luxurious resorts. Boasting tropical white sand beaches with emerald waters, opulent palaces and golden Buddha statues, couples are bound to fall in love with Thailand over and over again. The wildlife here is also second to none, with elephant sanctuaries in the north, rainforest hikes in the national parks and a dazzling marine world just steps from the shores of the paradisiacal Thai islands.

BAY VILLAS Enjoying the comfort of your own tropical villa is often the most relaxing form of honeymoon, especially when it's immersed in the heart of your chosen destination. Bay Villas are perched high above Haad Salad Bay, one of the most desirable beaches in Koh Phangan, surrounded by verdant rainforest and a chorus of heavenly birdsong. Laidback island vibes are mixed with first-class facilities at Bay Villas, where a variety of modern one to five-bedroom villas have access to private chefs, a cafe and a concierge who can help arrange all of your activity and transport

requests. Each beautiful villa opens up onto a spacious sun deck and an infinity pool, so you can soak up the stunning sea views and enjoy the unmissable Thai sunsets. bayvillas-phangan.com

MASON Treat yourselves to unbeatable Thai hospitality at the 5-star MASON resort, a group of ultramodern villas in Na Jomtien designed by an award-winning architect. Located just two hours from Bangkok, with a delicious restaurant, private parking, 24-hour reception, outdoor swimming pools, a hot tub and a gym, you’ll feel at home within a few hours of settling in. Within the luxurious package, couples can enjoy a buffet breakfast each morning, brimming with fresh fruits and local delicacies to fuel up for days of fun exploration. Whether you’d like to hike in the rainforest, play a round of golf or lounge on the soft white sands of Ban Amphur Beach, MASON aims to replenish your zest for life and provide a romantic start to your marriage. masonpattaya.com

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500 RAI Discover the wonders of Thailand with a bespoke tour and accommodation package with 500 Rai. The dedicated and passionate team will show you the best of this tropical destination through expertly crafted activities that will take your breath away. From exploring the Khao Sok National Park and hiking up to its Tarzan Viewpoint, to caving, kayaking and wildlife watching, you’ll never be short of things to do on your honeymoon in Thailand. End your adventurous days at 500 Rai Floating Resort, surrounded by lush jungles and limestone mountains. Switch off from it all and kick back in this pristine natural oasis, where warm Thai hospitality combines with an enchanting honeymoon suite suspended over the water. 500rai.com

BORNEO If you’re a nature lover, Borneo is bound to fulfil your wildest honeymoon dreams. Covered in dense equatorial rainforests with a tropical climate, this island nation provides the perfect conditions for some of the most diverse flora and fauna on the planet. With Orangutans and Clouded Leopards calling Borneo their home, your honeymoon in this Southeast Asian Archipelago will show you a side of Asia unlike anywhere else. For this honeymoon special, we are focusing on the Malaysian state of Sarawak, which is an authentic and rural hideaway on the road less travelled. Intrepid adventures await in the national parks’ hidden caves, the winding river rapids and the charming villages offering a window into local life.

HEMISPHERE The highly-anticipated launch of Hemisphere is coming soon, a collection of restored properties in Borneo from the mountain to the sea. They will capture the essence of Sarawak, providing couples with a fascinating insight into the destination, with cultural tours as well as superb dining experiences, relaxing spas and welcoming hospitality. The most romantic honeymoon resorts that Hemisphere have to offer are the Damai Beach Resort & Spa and the Damai Lagoon Resort & Spa, showcasing the beauty of Borneo’s calm coastal atmosphere. The white sand beach and glistening pools are always a tempting way to spend your time, or you can take a trip to Sarawak Cultural Village to learn about the various ethnic groups in the region. hemisphere.com.my

JAPAN Choosing Japan for your honeymoon destination will fascinate and enchant you in so many ways, with its vivid array of blossomspeckled towns, futuristic cities, timeless cultures and traditional customs. Hospitality and etiquette are prized above all, giving you an unbeatable selection of hotels and family-run ryokans, otherwise known as Japanese inns. As you settle into your home from home, the staff will open your eyes to their deep-rooted history, from tea ceremonies, calligraphy and kimonos, to tasting the wonderful world of Japanese cuisine. If you want to explore the fast-paced capital of Tokyo, temple hop through Kyoto or relax in the Onsen towns of Hokkaido, Japan can be experienced in so many ways and at any pace you like.

NAOSHIMA RYOKAN ROKA This artistic retreat on the Japanese island of Naoshima will expand your mind and ignite your curiosity. Blending beautifully with its mountain environment, Naoshima Ryokan ROKA allows you to find peace in nature and spend quality time as a couple. With the idea of ‘just being’ at the forefront of its design, the hotel curates a tranquil atmosphere where time slows to the natural flow of the island’s four seasons. Each of the rooms features an open-air bath so that you can feel the gentle breeze as you soak, and contemporary Japanese artwork is scattered across the hotel to spark your imagination. Strengthening the bond between people, art and nature, this unique hotel will promise an otherworldly escape from the rush of everyday life. ryokancollection.com/ryokan/roka/

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HEAVENLY MARRIAGES

ARE NOW MADE AT NEEMRANA ! Neemrana’s Tijara Fort-Palace Stars or sunshine. Handicrafts’ curated bazar. Jewelled and sequined guests. Drummers. Swirling dancers. Then the twilight: poolside Champagne, live counters, dancing. Dream till the progeny comes home !

Marry Indian ! At the 15th century Neemrana Fort-Palace Between New Delhi and Jaipur airports, discover a medieval Indian jewel of architecture: 25 acres of palaces tiered over 14 levels, hanging gardens, private courts and balconies to romance. A rejuvenating spa, organic farm-to-fork cuisine. For memorable weddings. Marigolds, jasmine and fragrant rose over a roman amphitheatre. Create a chapel with thousand candles or take your vows circling a sacred fire. Sip bubblies in a heated pool.

Neemrana non-hotel Hotels +91 124 4666 166 (8am to 8 pm, all days, IST) neemranahotels neemrana.hotels neemrana_hotels weddings@neemranahotels.com www.neemranahotels.com TO AVAIL A SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY DISCOUNT, PLEASE PROVIDE THE CODE: NHPL-2023, AT THE TIME OF BOOKING.

HONEYMOON HEAVEN AT

Bay Villas,Koh Phangan C elebrating your wedding day is one of the biggest occasions in life, so when it comes to planning your honeymoon, you deserve a magical trip away. With Bay Villas on the 5th largest Thai island of Koh Phangan, you’ll have a superb choice of spacious villa accommodation, complete with luxury concierge services and nearby access to tranquil white sands.

The beauty of Koh Phangan is its seclusion, as it has no local airport. So, the best way to travel is via ferry from Surat Thani City on the mainland or from the neighbouring island of Koh Samui. Upon arrival in the main town of Thong Sala, you’ll soon become immersed in the local charms as you discover its mystical Buddhist temples, colourful dive sites and bustling night markets. Among the most popular beaches on Koh Phangan include Bottle Beach, Thong Nai Pan Beach, Haad Salad Beach, Haad Chao Pao Beach and Mae Haad Beach. Plus, the Namtok Than Sadet National Park is a must-see for couples who want to spend time in nature, whether that’s for a romantic picnic by a 156

waterfall or for a hike through the dense jungle. The best thing about honeymooning in Koh Phangan is that the island has something for everyone. Whether you’d like to party under the iridescent moonlight on Haad Rin Beach, learn how

sliding doors open onto spacious sun decks with infinity pools and spectacular views of the bay. Bay Villas take pride in offering the ultimate blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces, so as the sun melts over the horizon, there’s no better place to enjoy the fresh tropical air while sipping on a fruity cocktail. With a dedicated personal concierge, how you spend your time is always up to you. Bay Villas can organise food deliveries, book private chefs for glamorous dinner parties or set up an in-house spa so you can enjoy massage treatments in the comfort of your villa. If there are any additional excursions you are interested in trying, the team would be delighted to recommend the best sights and tours in the area and arrange your car rental or VIP transfers for you. One of their popular retreats is Villa Firesky Cove, a stylish and modern property set 20 metres above sea level overlooking the bay of Haad Tian. With four bedrooms and dining space for up to ten people, you will have plenty of extra room to allow close family and friends to join in on the celebrations. With cream tones and rattan accents, the open-plan kitchen faces the outdoor space and is the perfect hub for entertaining. Sea views dominate every window and you can even look out over the horizon from the bathtubs, reminding you of the heavenly island setting. The fully fitted air conditioning throughout also helps you stay cool as you slip into the 100% hotel-grade cotton bed sheets for a soundless night’s sleep. From poolside barbeques on the decking to chic evenings in the large living area, Firesky Cove has everything you need for an enjoyable and comfortable stay. The expert Bay Villas team are always on hand to make your stay as memorable as possible on Koh Phangan, from housekeeping services to concierge support. We are sure your honeymoon with Bay Villas will never feel long enough, so you might be tempted to book a long-stay rental. With their monthly stays, you can bask in the beauty of the island until it feels like home. To find out more and book your dream honeymoon in Koh Phangan, visit bayvillas-phangan.com to make typical dishes on a Thai cooking course, or get to know the authentic local culture, this underestimated Thai destination gives you the opportunity to create an actionpacked schedule or have the freedom to relax and just ‘be’. Nestled high above Haad Salad Bay and overlooking the sparkling ocean and palm trees, Bay Villas make the perfect base for your honeymoon in Koh Phangan. With a variety of high-quality villas, luxury amenities and services, the concierge team will help you enjoy a seamless trip, giving their full attention to your tailored itinerary and striving to surpass every expectation. Bay Villas aim to provide you with the ultimate Thai island experience, curating a peaceful environment to soak up the tropical sunshine. The on-site Flow Café serves delicious seasonal produce and freshly brewed coffee daily on their patio or they can deliver directly to your door via the app. The boutique Unwind Wellness spa also offers treatments to help find your inner calm after the hectic pressures of preparing for your big day. With Bay Villas’ award-winning design and hospitality, you can rest, recharge and feel totally at ease in an island home-fromhome. With a variety of one-bedroom to five-bedroom villas, the WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

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2021

ITALY’S LEADING HOTEL GROUP WORLD’S LEADING GREEN INDEPENDENT HOTEL GROUP

let the journey begin.

Sounds, colours, scents. North Sardinia is an emotion for life. Welcome Newly-weds and Anniversaries at delphina.it/liberi

Romantic

Floating Oasis at

500 Rai

scape from the typical tourist trail and discover untouched tropical beauty at 500 Rai in Surat Thani, southern Thailand. Floating on the Ratchaprapha Dam surrounded by lush vegetation and cascading waterfalls, this waterside retreat is a unique ecosystem where biodiversity thrives and tranquillity reaches new levels. The unpretentious atmosphere, adventurous activities and warm hospitality make it the perfect choice for romantic honeymoons in the heart of nature.

At 500 Rai, you will encounter Thailand’s unique wildlife from a new perspective, suspended over the lagoon in your Honeymoon Suite. With its King sized bed, en suite bathroom, elegant living room, open-air jacuzzi and private swimming pool that gleams like brilliant topaz amid the rippling lagoon waters, it paints a picture of lakeside heaven. Each villa also comes with a personal kayak so you can glide freely onto the lake and explore everything it has to offer. There’s no better place to wake up than listening to the lap of the water against the villa deck, helping you to switch off and reconnect with the world around you. With no Wi-Fi, this off-the-grid escape is a welcome retreat from the intensity of the digital world, where you can take time out to treasure the marriage vows that you have just committed to and spend time together as newlyweds in one of the most beautiful places in Southeast Asia. You’ll soon open your eyes to a kaleidoscope of colours, exotic wildlife sounds and the utter peace that 500 Rai promises to uphold. The friendly staff are there to ensure you create the most magical memories together. 160

ne of the highlights of choosing 500 Rai as your honeymoon holiday is the sheer variety of activities you can do during your stay: you can hike through the Khao Sok National Park to the Tarzan viewpoint and soak up the 360-degree views of Cheow Lan Lake; you can take a boat ride to explore the Pad Zian Waterfall, or you can admire the natural stalagmites and stalactites that were formed in the ancient limestone caves. For keen open-water swimmers, trekkers, kayakers and paddle boarders, this will become your newfound paradise in Thailand.

Travel

The knowledgeable staff also run a series of immersive nature tours throughout the week, including an evening boat safari to the Khlong Saeng Wildlife Sanctuary, where you might spot wild elephants, boars and Gaurs roaming and bathing along the banks at sunset. But for the

early risers, the complimentary bird-watching tour at 7am might be your calling. The national park is blessed with over 300 bird species, including the colourful plumes of the rare Great Hornbills. For lazy days on the lake, nothing beats a relaxing Thai massage, and 500 Rai have a plethora of treatments to tailor to your needs, from neck, shoulder, back or foot massages to aromatherapy and hot oil rituals with deep tissue pressure to soothe away any aches and pains. The full spa menu will leave you feeling restored, rejuvenated and ready to take on whatever adventure lies ahead. Southern Thai food is served at the picturesque Lake Bar, giving you a feast for the senses and a deeper appreciation for the delicious local cuisine. As you tuck into the freshly prepared meals and absorb the magnificent scenery all around, 500 Rai is guaranteed to leave you with a lasting impression. This floating resort is the ultimate back-to-nature haven where you are free to disconnect from the rush of everyday life and reconnect with your partner, surrounded by pristine waters at every turn. The lakeside location is an unrivalled place to begin your newlywed life, and there’s no doubt that you’ll want to return to 500 Rai again with your family in future years to come. To find out more and book your dream honeymoon in Surat Thani, Thailand, visit 500rai.com WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM 161

+81 (0)3-6824-1015

theryokancollection

@ryokancollection

www.ryokancollection.com

More than a place to stay and dine on exquisite modern kaiseki and sushi, ROKA is itself an art project that makes for an exciting new destination on Naoshima. The ryokan is a gallery, an incubator for emerging talent, and a nightlife venue for meeting other art lovers and collectors from around the world. Curated by editor and art producer Shigeo Goto, a professor at Kyoto University of the Arts, the Roka Art Project features works by Kohei Nawa (b. 1975), Masafumi Shigeta (b. 1985), Ryo Shinagawa (b. 1987), Kohei Yamada (b. 1997), Shohei Yamamoto (b. 1994), and Daisuke Yokota (b. 1983) in its growing permanent collection, and staying guests have the opportunity to purchase artworks featured in special exhibitions that rotate two times a year in spring and fall collections. Plans are underway to establish artist residencies as well.

Naoshima Ryokan ROKA

Part of The Ryokan’s Contemporary Collection, find out about this modern edge hotel…

ell us about the brand The Ryokan Collection.

Established in 2004, The Ryokan Collection is the world's first global consortium of luxury ryokan and small luxury Japanese hotels. Our 47 members have been strictly vetted and determined to be representatives of Japan. With a mission to continue and further develop ryokan culture in the local regions of our member ryokan, The Ryokan Collection strives to develop a more significant presence in the global luxury travel market by introducing the world to the incredible culture and the beautiful art of Japanese hospitality, omotenashi. Give us an insight into your new property Naoshima Ryokan ROKA. Newly opened on Naoshima island in Kagawa Prefecture in April 2022, ROKA is the grand vision of Shintaro Sasaki, a fourthgeneration hotelier whose family founded the elegant Kifu No Sato ryokan in northern Okayama. More than a place to stay and dine on exquisite modern kaiseki and sushi, ROKA is an art project that makes for an exciting new destination on Naoshima. 166

The ryokan is a gallery, an incubator for emerging talent, and a nightlife venue for meeting other art lovers and collectors from around the world. A poetic balance of yin and yang is found throughout the inn's spaces and offerings, right down to its name. ROKA unites the warmth of the hearth (ro) with the softly enveloping qualities of woodland mist (ka) that inspired Sasaki to build on this site. On his first visit, he crested the hill just up the road to find mist rising from a reservoir encircled by trees. Moved by its yin qualities—nurturing, reflective, and filled with potential—he knew he had found a happy place for gatherings and creative exchanges centered around art. ROKA is a mere ten-minute walk from Honmura Port, where you can alight from the ferry and begin your Naoshima sojourn with a visit to the Art House Project. Alternatively, head straight to the ryokan to check-in and drop off your bags, then return on foot. The Honmura Lounge & Archive is only an eight-minute walk away. Sasaki's vision of a small hamlet that rises in harmony with its gently sloped surroundings continues to take shape under the sure hands of architect Hironori Fujioka of the Okayama-based nottuo Inc. With its restaurant and café-bar, 11 guest suites, central firepit for outdoor gatherings, and planned artist studios, it is an exciting new addition to the delights of Naoshima, very much in step with the island's mission to strengthen community ties through contemporary art.

Why is your location perfect for honeymoons? Naoshima Island is an art island drawing worldwide attention. Surrounded by Japan's leading contemporary art museums and splendid architecture, you will have an extraordinary time. Naoshima is surrounded by the Seto Inland Sea and is also blessed with the finest seafood offering a memorable dining experience. At our ryokan, we are sure that honeymooners will be pleased with the romantic lighting of the garden and the experience of the open-air bath in the guest suites in nature. Which services/experiences do you offer to newlyweds? We offer our honeymooners a bottle of champagne as room service.

Which activities do you offer outside of the property? We have art tours through island hopping on chartered cruisers of Naoshima and its neighbour islands, Teshima, Inujima, and Shodoshima, known as art islands. On the cruise, our guests can have lunch overlooking the breathtaking Seto Inland Sea. The calm ocean of the Seto Inland Sea is quite popular for cruising, so sunset cruises with champagne in hand also offer unforgettable moments to newlyweds. Luxurious glamping experiences with exclusive dining settings for two can also be arranged on a deserted island near Naoshima. For more information visit: www.ryokancollection.com/ryokan/roka/ WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

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What’s on our

From the balmy temperatures of the Canary Islands to the rolling hills of Italy, we have all you need for your post-wedding travels…

RadarinEurope THE CANARY ISLANDS

ff the coast of Northwestern Africa, the Spanish archipelago of the Canary Islands emerges as a tantalising tropical escape for newlyweds.

Unspoilt nature, heavenly stretches of sand and tantalising culture make up these eight islands floating in the Atlantic. Indulge in the trip of a lifetime and allow your mind and soul to be whisked away to paradise in the Canary Islands. The islands, including Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote and La Graciosa, 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 are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from helicopter rides and whale watching to dancing in Tenerife’s world-renowned Carnival in the spring. 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. Honeymooners can dwell in the touristy south and enjoy the buzzing life there or they can venture off and unwrap the beauty of Tenerife’s untouched coastline of volcanic beaches, natural pools and jaw-dropping mounts for outdoorsy couples. The Teide National Park is unmissable during your visit. You’ll be stunned by the striking panorama from the highest peak of Europe. 168

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 onsite 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), a luxury spa, a world-renowned golf course and an exclusive beach for guests. This hotel is an absolute dream if you are planning to jet off on a romantic trip as newlyweds. ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/spain/abama

ITALY

Get lost in Italy’s cultural treasures and natural spaces for an unforgettable break with your better half…

Travel

ffering a diverse range of sceneries, from north to south, Italy is a treasure trove of surprises awaiting your discovery. Start your adventure with a stop in Italy’s mesmerising Lakes District in Piedmont. Here, you’ll be charmed by the reflection of the mountain ranges on the shimmering waters of Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta. For all the Prosecco lovers, head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Prosecco Hills and enjoy a glass of bubbles in one of the romantic estates. When in Italy, why not take the opportunity to drive around the rolling hills of Tuscany? Enjoy tours of the vineyards as well as outings in some of the spectacular hamlets tucked away amidst the verdant Tuscan countryside. There’s also plenty to enjoy amongst Italy’s island region of Sicily, boasting splendid cities and culinary delights.

WHERE TO STAY:

CASTELBRANDO, VENETO

Overlooking the Prosecco hills, CastelBrando is a magnificent 2,000-year-old castle brimming with history. The 4-star property has been restored to its original glory with the addition of modern amenities. The hotel features elegant rooms and suites, 70 hectares of park and forest, as well as a well-equipped spa with a swimming pool, saunas and a chromotherapy shower. Castel Brando is a fairytale location for honeymoons with gardens to uncover and luxurious facilities to spoil you. castelbrando.it

IL CELLESE, TUSCANY

Situated in the heart of Tuscany’s astounding Chianti hills, Il Cellese is surrounded by 9 hectares of organic land. Thanks to meticulous restoration that began in 2000, The Villa has been restored to its former glory and now shines with tradition, culture and sustainability. Il Cellese is a very intimate space to share with your spouse, with only 10 stylish bedrooms to choose from. Everything can be tailored to match the highest standard of hospitality. With 20 years of experience under their belt, they can organise unforgettable tours and experiences around the Chianti hills. From the panoramic helicopter flight to the horseback tour, cooking classes, wine and truffle tasting and much more. For some much-needed relaxing, there’s a newly renovated pool to lay around, and with a bar just a step away, there will be cocktails flowing for you and your love. If you really want to immerse in the best Tuscany has to offer, Il Cellese is a must! ilcellese.it

DONNA CORALY RESORT, SICILY

If you’re looking for a private oasis in the heart of Sicily, Donna Coraly Resort is more than you could ever wish for. The luxury residence hosts six charming suites adorned with a private garden or patio, a lush park for walks hand in hand, and a restaurant to get a taste of Italy’s authentic cuisine. There’s also a lush botanical garden, a thermal swimming pool and a lovely vegetable garden with medical plants and striving vegetables. In this corner of paradise, you can really enjoy tranquillity and relaxation whilst immersing in the scents and mesmerising colours of Sicily. donnacoraly.it WEDDINGSANDHONEYMOONSMAGAZINE.COM

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Plan a romantic Escape to the shores of Piedmont

VILLA E PALAZZO AMINTA, MARCO ARDUINO

With soaring mountains framing idyllic lakes, the region of Lago Maggiore and Lago D'Orta in Piedmont is a fairytale destination for weddings and honeymoons alike …

The Grand Tour Tucked away in the northern Italian region of Piedmont, the picturesque setting of the Lakes District is a blissful destination for unforgettable stays with your love. This lake region is a scenic area just a few steps away from the Swiss border and easily accessible from the metropolitan cities of Turin and Milan, making it the perfect stop for your “love tour”. Unmissable during your journey are the shores of Lake Maggiore. If you want to experience the dolce vita lifestyle, this is where you need to be. With incredible natural and cultural richness, such as the Borromeo Islands, the delightful climate and the presence of grand hotels of the Belle Époque era, you are in for a treat. For more inspiration, the tranquil shores of Lake Orta will undoubtedly charm their way into your hearts as they did with a myriad of writers such as Balzac, Rodari, Montale and Soldati. The little hamlet of Orta San Giulio with the Island of San Giulio holds a surprising amount of beauty you won’t want to miss out on. For a quieter stop, Lake Mergozzo is small but full of surprises. For centuries, it’s been supplying its marvellous marble for the Duomo in Milan. Last but not least, journey across the high peaks of the Ossola Valleys, offering striking views over the lakes and the alps. This area is well known for its natural glory, and it’s home to dramatic landscapes like Monte Rosa and the Toce Waterfall. With all this surrounding splendour, there’s no doubt why couples from across the world flock to Piedmont to stay, tour, and of course, get married.

Your Wedding Experience

SPONSORED BY THE PROJECT "SLOW BIZ", LOCAL TOURISM BOARD DISTRETTO TURISTICO DEI LAGHI

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The piedmontese Lakes District is quickly becoming one of the top spots for destination weddings. More and more couples are swept off their feet by the diverse territory and the myriad of choices for their big day. With a huge variety of unique locations equipped for weddings, everyone can have the day of their dreams. From breathtaking medieval and baroque churches to elegant shorefront

BELGIRATE, MARCO BENEDETTO CERINI

Gold Guide

hotels and lavish manors, you’ll be spoilt for choice. And, that’s not all. The varied landscape lends itself perfectly to all of those who want to enjoy a romantic break beyond their special day. Experiences of all kinds are available across the lakes and the alps. We have a seasonal selection to delve into:

Spring in the Gardens

LAKE ORTA WEDDING, MARCO ARDUINO

With everything in bloom, don’t miss the chance to visit the awe-inspiring gardens and bucolic villas that dot the lakes. Here, architecture, art and history blend beautifully with the natural backdrop. Be part of this slow tourism trend and find a tranquil ambience to enjoy with your better half. Ideally positioned overlooking the shores of Lake Maggiore, the Park of the Rocca Borromea in Arona is a well-manicured garden perfect for a couple’s photoshoot. Hop on a boat and tour the tantalising Borromeo islets for a day trip outdoors. The famed Isola Bella and Isola Madre are surprising gems, hidden in the deep waters of Lake Maggiore. The grandeur of the palaces leads the way to the astonishing gardens, embellished by fountains and rare floral blooms. For a more intimate experience, visit the privately-owned park of Villa Anelli in Oggebbio. The family has a stunning Camellia garden which is a sight to behold. There’s no better way to spend a sunny spring day!

A Summer Adventure For all thrill-seeking couples, Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta are the ideal stop. Across the area, you’ll stumble upon a plethora of outdoor activities to partake in, from yoga classes in the wild to ziplining, there’s something that matches your pace. For adrenaline junkies, Lago Maggiore Aquadventure Park in Baveno and Adventure Park Le Pigne in Ameno are great adventure parks open all year round. Ziplining has become a popular pastime and Lago Maggiore Zipline in Aurano and Lago d’Orta Zipline in Omegna are creating the safest fun-packed activity for couples. Also offering a yearround experience, Alpyland is the electrifying roller coaster to try from the Mottarone peak.

Fall in Love with the Ossola Valleys

LAKE MAGGIORE WEDDING, MARCO ARDUINO

As the leaves turn orange and the wind gets cooler, it’s the best time to explore the stretch between Masera and Trontano. Grab your partner by the hand and venture along the romantic Prünent vineyards and make sure to sip some of the superb wine as the renowned DOC Nebbiolo. A stunning autumnal itinerary can easily be covered by train. The famous railway Vigezzina Centovalli covers it all, and it will be a delight to see the falling leaves. To see more of the spectacular colours and foliage, make your way to the Veglia Devero Nature Reserve, in particular Alpe Devero where you’ll also be blessed by views of the towering alps. This area is not only a spectacular destination for natural wonders, it’s also a gastronomic haven. Find an agriturismo to savour the best the region has to offer and don’t forget to pack more for the road. Distretto Turistico dei Laghi Corso Italia 26 – 28838 Stresa (VB) Tel. +39 0323 30416 infoturismo@distrettolaghi.it www.distrettolaghi.it | www.lagomaggiorexperience.it FB @distrettolaghi | IG @lagomaggiore_turismo SAN GIULIO ISLE, MARCO BENEDETTO CERINI

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Internal Features 10 bedrooms (9 double - 1 single) Kitchen Dining room Sauna & Gym Pool Hammam Playroom Wi-Fi covered Private cellar Wine selection Helipad Our estate offers a romantic destination in Tuscany and is a much sought-after location for weddings or honeymoons – an opportunity to enjoy your own Villa in Italy. The property offers endless opportunities to discover unique settings, each with its own character and charm. Welcome your guests to the Villa and start enjoying Tuscan life with a barbecue by the swimming pool or in the garden surrounded by vineyards. Villa Il Cellese is a masterpiece of modern interior design in a historical building: 10 ensuite bedrooms that can accommodate up to 19 people, a fully equipped kitchen, dining and living room, indoor heated pool, sauna and spa, beautiful garden with breathtaking views over the landscape and dining area for al fresco dinners, BBQ and professional wood pizza oven, outdoor pool with gazebos and chaise lounges. The nearest village Castellina in Chianti is only a 10-minute drive away, 45 km away from Florence, and 25km away from Siena. It’s just a short drive from the most famous places to visit in Tuscany: San Gimignano, Volterra, Val d’Orcia, Pienza, Arezzo, Cortona and the beautiful places on the coast.

Loc. Il Cellese , 53011 - Castellina in Chianti, Siena, Italy https://ilcellese.it/en/ Il Cellese Winery and Villa @winery_ilcellese +39 3298151425 info@ilcellese.it

CASTELBRANDO Your dream escape starts here…

verlooking the marvellous Prosecco Hills, positioned between the city of Venice and the striking Dolomites, CastelBrando is an awe-inspiring location for you to marry and spend quality time with your better half after tying the knot. With 2,000 years of history adorning this fairytale castle, there’s plenty to delight in during your magical stay. CastelBrando is one of the largest and oldest castles in Europe, and as you walk through its corridors, you’ll feel transported to a different era. You’ll be swept off your feet by the elegance and heritage brimming in and out. And thanks to the careful restoration, its original splendour has been brought back to life.

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WEDDING DAY This location is perfect to crown your love. With sweeping views and a taste of Italian glamour, a wedding here will be more than you could have ever wished for. Not only does CastelBrando offer a beautiful backdrop, but you can also coronate your love with a legally registered marriage. The San Martino church lends itself perfectly with its intimate feel and marvellous frescoes framing your day. For an unforgettable reception, CastelBrando offers couples impeccable service and gourmet cuisine. Sansovino Theatre has hosted over the centuries sumptuous banquets and lavish parties and can now host your grand feast. For a longer guest list, you can extend your party to the sunkissed Sala Gaia from Sansovino Restaurant. For a romantic spring or summer soirée, the Summer Terrace is your best bet. And, if you want to surprise your guests, CastelBrando has a helicopter pad to make an entrance your guests will remember.

HONEYMOON BLISS After your celebration, plan an exquisite stay on the grounds, and CastelBrando is an excellent base to explore all that the surrounding historic towns of Cison di Valmarino and Follina and the natural areas have to offer. Whether you want to relax at the spa or tour the nearby vineyards, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Stay in one of the opulent Royal Suites located at the heart of the castle. All designed in a Venetian style, you’ll find comfort and panoramic views overlooking the valley for those honeymoon pics. In the oldest part of the castle, among Roman finds and fascinating mosaics, it is possible to enjoy a moment of relaxation and well-being at the Princess Gaia Spa. Equipped with a swimming pool, saunas, a Turkish bath and much more, you can enjoy the serenity with your love. Following your rejuvenating treatments, why not spoil yourself with an aperitif from the Lounge Bar Donatello. During the summer months, you can delight in sunsets and sip fresh cocktails from the area. For a romantic meal for two, CastelBrando will serve you the top cuisine of the region - so don’t miss out! Couples will discover endless opportunities for a memorable honeymoon in Italy. The castle is the ideal starting point for your journey through the wineries and natural trails that dot the region. There are also excursions organised among the wonderful Prosecco Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just an hour away, Venice offers a myriad a romantic experiences. It’s a wonderful day out destination. Take a gondola ride and explore the numerous canals as you uncover its outstanding artistic treasures. Set in a prime position in Veneto’s enchanting region, CastelBrando will make all your wedding and honeymoon dreams come true. castelbrando.it

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A Canary Island Retreat: THE RITZ-CARLTON,

Abama

Honeymoon in Tenerife and feel your worries melt away under the Spanish sun… Located on the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, this timeless island retreat combines natural beauty with endless possibilities in the gem that is The Ritz-Carlton, Abama. Using Tenerife’s unique climate, the resort hosts both rest and relaxation with their wellness treatments and active travel with the island’s activities on offer on both land and sea. Of course, this is all joined together by the backbone that is the warmth of service and professionalism that is associated with the brand DNA and The Ritz-Carlton standards. It is the ultimate in honeymoon destinations. With a variety of accommodations on offer for your getaway, made up of 459 luxurious rooms and suites, The Ritz-Carlton provides flexibility for every guest. All rooms come with a generous balcony and terrace to soak up the sunrises with your love and the new Villa Club is a boutique-style concept with rooms and suites in a secluded setting to suit couples for your romantic trip. The luxury penthouses host the sumptuous Imperial, Royal and The Ritz-Carlton suites, their most exclusive, luxury accommodation with panoramic views of the ocean, jacuzzis and multiple bedrooms, they are the créme de la créme of destination honeymoon rooms. A bastion of culinary excellence, the hotel’s gourmet offerings are world-renowned and perfect to treat your tastebuds to a 176

divine meal. Your honeymoon will be given levels by their choice of venues, meaning no matter where you are in the resort, the food is guaranteed to be top notch. They offer everything from casual sun-drenched beach lunches and pool treats to formal dining with their exceptional tasting menus at dusk. Chef César González heads El Mirador, a restaurant specialising in locally sourced seafood and Canarian terramar cuisine, which gives you a taste of the Canary Islands. In the most enviable location on a cliff’s edge overlooking the Atlantic Ocean towards La Gomera island, this is a must for your honeymoon dining. Also offering Italian and Michelin-starred Japanese-fusion cuisine showcasing their culinary techniques and often presenting dining as a form of theatre, you’ll leave with a thousand memories and hundreds of tastes on your tongue. It wouldn’t be a honeymoon without some pampering and couples can enjoy a selection of spa rituals inspired by Tenerife traditions at The Ritz-Carlton Spa. They offer a range of restorative and transformative techniques tailored to your personal requirements with their innovative and flexible program, including aromatherapy massages and even treatments specialised for expectant mothers. The Ritz-Carlton Spa’s Wellness Experience harnesses inspiration from the classical traditions of Roman bathing, in which you and your partner will work through a revitalising cycle of water-based treatments.

With an on-site Fitness Center, jogging and hiking trails in the botanical gardens, golf courses and tennis courts, you can get your married life off to an active, restorative start. As well as their luxury resort offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of life, the surrounding area is a haven of natural beauty for you to enjoy with your love. The 160-hectare estate has a prime location for a land and sea retreat-locale, a vibrant oasis with jawdropping views of the Atlantic Ocean and volcanic vistas. There are endless backdrops to ensure your honeymoon photos are stunning and timeless. The resort’s unique and varied topography combines lush botanical landscaping, clifftop terrain and its own secluded beach for a micro-destination of honeymoon escapism for the two of you. For those eco-concious couples, The Ritz-Carlton, Abama makes a commitment to environmental responsibility and ensures you can honeymoon in peace knowing the planet is being cared for. With 262 square meters surface of solar panels to provide guests with hot water for showering, air-conditioning and to heat the swimming pools, they have many initiatives on the go. Committed to recycling, energy-saving lights and plastic-free utensils, your honeymoon will help reduce the carbon footprint and take care of the natural beauty surrounding you on your trip. Whether you wed here with one of their excellent wedding packages and endless indoor and outdoor venues or just book to celebrate your honeymoon together, The Ritz-Carlton, Abama, is a fantastic choice for any couple looking for a luxury escape with professional service and stunning natural Spanish beauty. Your Tenerife honeymoon awaits you! ritzcarlton.com

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Dive into the Caribbean Sea Make Magical Memories in Mexico…

NIZUC RESORT & SPA

e’ve selected the Southeast coast of Mexico, Quintana Roo situated on the Caribbean Sea, as one of our favourite honeymoon locations as it has something for every type of couple, whether you want to get involved in Mayan history at the Tulum ruins or enjoy the bustling nightlife of Cancun. Mexico is the perfect spot for newlyweds to start their marriage on a fun note, we can’t think of a more relaxing spot after the stresses of wedding planning than on a white sandy beach with a margarita in hand! You deserve ultimate relaxation and the beach resorts dotted along the Southeast coast promise first class service so you can just enjoy your first moments as a couple. The resorts offer honeymooners everything they need for a memorable honeymoon, with the chance to relax in cabanas and bali beds upon unspoilt coastlines and enjoy gastronomic treats from their top-class restaurants and tasty traditional cuisine. Guests can often sign up to excursions to explore the wonders that Mexico has to offer, these are sometimes organised by the resort and can be on land, sea or sky! One of the most popular trips is to go snorkelling or scuba diving in warm Caribbean waters and swim alongside turtles and sting rays to make memories to treasure. Cancun is a honeymoon hotspot, boasting enough activity and culture to keep you busy whilst also offering beachy havens to relax. Or you could explore the Yucatán Peninsular south of Cancun and sail the turquoise waters on a catamaran or play a round of golf on the worldfamous golf courses of the Riviera Maya. For a cultured honeymoon, Tulum is home to some of the best-preserved Mayan ruins on earth, full of history and spectacular clifftop views, your honeymoon snaps will be the picture of joy to show your loved ones!

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Where to stay:

Only a short drive from Cancun internation airport, lies this little slice of paradise located in the secluded enclave of Punta NIZUC, ready to redefine the standard of luxury for your honeymoon getaway. With 274 luxurious suites and private villas dispersed throughout their 29-acre property, including private pools, terraces and gardens, you are guaranteed to start your married life in style. Decked out with state-of-the-art entertainment systems, rainfall showers and king size beds, their private pool villas are ideal for you and your love to spend some all-important one-on-one time together. With the first ESPA-branded spa in the Mexican Caribbean, their beauty and wellness program is the best start to married life and it will soothe the stresses of wedmin!

Where to stay: HOTEL PANAMERA The power of ‘home sweet home’ is the motto of Hotel Panamera in Tulum. This lifestyle boutique hotel is located in Tulum beach with oceanfront property of 14 rooms, 100-seat restaurant and beach club to keep you entertained for your dream honeymoon. Their delicious cuisine is a collision of Mexican classics and rustic Mediterranean dishes, so you can get a taste of the local region whilst exploring new and exciting flavours. The modern and boho décor incorporates neutral and natural materials to give you a tropical feel juxtaposed with Mexican colours and patterns such as their checkerboard pools. Hotel Panamera is a place where you as a couple can become part of their community for an unforgettable honeymoon. hotelpanamera.com

nizuc.com

Barbados is our choice of honeymoon

Soak up the wonders of the Caribbean…

hotspot in the Caribbean, ideal to find that perfect blend of affordability, luxury, adventure and leisure on this magical island. One of the southernmost islands in the Caribbean Sea, Barbados truly feels like a tropical escape away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life - the perfect vibe for your honeymoon! You can customise your Barbados honeymoon to your wishes, whether you want a fast-paced adventure full of culture and excitement or a leisurely trip to the beachy havens of the tropical hotspot. Larger cities, such the capital city of Bridgetown, offer history, museums, shopping and near-endless dining and drinking options. Getting the most from this island requires some planning and research but it is wholeheartedly worth it when you end up with the honeymoon of a lifetime.

One of the best things about Barbados? Every single beach is open to the public, so if you see some sand and sea that takes your fancy, hop on and start tanning! Take a dip in the warm Caribbean waters and see if you can spot a turtle poking it’s head up to say hello! Some of the best beaches are Crane Beach with its pink sand and dramatic cliff backdrop and along the coast of Bathsheba, which are loved by surfers for their strong waves and beautiful rock formations.

Where to stay: HILTON BARBADOS RESORT This resort is located on the 17th-century ruins of Charles Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers direct access to two white-sand beaches, free watersports, a luxury spa, outdoor pools and so much more for your honeymoon. Bridgetown and The Mount Gay Rum Tour are only 15 minutes away, meaning culture and memories are only a short trip from your relaxing base, to give you the best of both worlds. Stand on your own private balcony as you overlook the glittering turquoise waters and feel the tropical breeze on your face, and dine in their inviting options for delicious cuisine and refreshing drinks. This is the perfect start to your married life! www.hiltonbarbadosresort.com

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Discover your dream wedding! Unforgettable Moments. Spectacular Venues. Mexico

WEDDINGS@NIZUC.COM | NIZUC.COM | +52 998-8915700

Travel

Celebrate your Love at

NIZUC Resort & Spa

When in Mexico, plan your dream wedding amongst the unspoilt beauty of Punta Nizuc…

Wedding Day

rom intimate weddings overlooking crystal clear waters to grand celebrations amongst the lush tropical vegetation, you can’t go wrong with a wedding at NIZUC Resort & Spa. Even with its secluded position on the tranquil enclave of Punta Nizuc, between the Caribbean Sea and Nichupte Lagoon, you are only 15 minutes away from Cancún Airport, making travel for you and your guests as relaxing as possible.

Fall in Love Brimming with Mexican heart and Mayan soul, the 29-acre private beachfront estate offers guests an immersive experience in one of Mexico’s most luxurious destinations. NIZUC Resort & Spa is located in an area once used by Mayan astronomers and as a presidential retreat for world leaders. A collaboration between artists and architects, this project fuses modern sensibility with Mayan ethos. NIZUC opened in March 2013 and boasts 274 suites and villas, as well as multiple pools, including family-friendly and adults-only options, six world-class restaurants including Mexican, Peruvian, Italian, Asian and a beachside Grill, and a 30,000 square foot ESPA spa complete with male and female hydrotherapy areas and 18 indoor and outdoor treatment rooms. Guests wanting to get more active can collect a paddleboard or kayak from one of NIZUC’s two beaches or explore the region’s natural wonders, such as the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, archaeological sites and spectacular attractions, including the world’s first Underwater Art Museum.

Anything is possible at NIZUC thanks to the experienced wedding concierge team. The dedicated staff can customise your ceremony and plan something magical and unforgettable for your wedding day. They can also help you create something uniquely Mexican by having a Mayan shaman perform a ceremony on the beach, or you can plan a bohemian wedding breakfast with traditional Mexican table décor. There are plenty of venues for you to choose from: the romantic NIZUC Garden lends itself beautifully to an elegant outdoor celebration, whilst the white sands of NIZUC beach are a dreamy location for your vows. You can also make the most of the indoor spaces in case of a sudden change in the weather. The resort offers lovebirds lots of privacy, and there are secluded locations couples can enjoy prior to and after their big day. Plan a dining experience for you and your guests at the La Punta Grill Terrace: a unique tropical location blessed with panoramic ocean views. Welcome your wedding day with breakfast in bed and a trip to the spa. As your celebrations come to an end, say farewell to your loved ones and embark on a honeymoon to remember at NIZUC Resort & Spa, boasting sunset walks on the beach, fine dining experiences and thrilling excursions. (nizuc.com/events/weddings) Visit nizuc.com, @nizucresort, @nizuc_weddings

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ilton Barbados Resort is ideally located on the island’s tropical peninsula and features all ocean view guestrooms with private balconies. Our lavish accommodations, outstanding amenities and unparalleled service will make your celebration of love unforgettable

here is nothing quite like the Caribbean when it comes to romantic getaways. For your wedding and honeymoon, there is truly no comparison. You and your guests will enjoy the finest wine pairings to complement our menu selections, an experienced and dedicated banqueting team, and an array of decorative ambiance that is uniquely Hilton Barbados Resort.

Hilton Barbados Resort, Needham’s Point, St. Michael BB11000, Barbados, W.I. (246) 426-0200

www.hiltonbarbadosresort.com

@hiltonbarbadosresort

hiltonbarbados

HiltonBarbadosResort

WIN A £15,000 Blessing Ceremony

WIN A six-night Dream Escape to the Maldives

honeymooners wishing to mark the moment, renew vows or simply honour each other with an island elder’s blessing.

For those who have only dreamed of desert island honeymoons, far from the madding crowd is the jewel in the Maldives crown offering the most romantic of celebratory escapes. Consistently voted the Indian Ocean’s Leading Honeymoon resort, JA Manafaru is offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a lucky couple to escape reality and enter a barefoot luxury paradise, nestled at the edge of life in the Maldives. Located in the northernmost atoll of the breathtaking archipelago Haa Alifu, JA Manafaru is the most remote understated destination in the Maldives, and ideal for

Offering an unrivalled level of privacy, perfect soft sand beaches and crystal-clear waters surround this idyllic pristine natural island that benefits from remoteness more than any other Maldives barefoot luxury resort. Whether you wish to listen to nature’s calling from the tropical forest canopy at dusk, or the lapping of the ocean as you sleep, the selection of spacious beach villas, over-water villas and palatial two and three-bedroom residences, each with their secluded gardens and private pool (or pools), presents a choice for everyone - and for every occasion. With an extensive list of ceremony and blessing set-ups, every small detail will be taken care of on your special occasion. From bouquets to button-hole flowers, from cakes to champagne, the island team are on hand to ensure memorable moments on your special day. jaresorts.com

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Competition

FIND OUT MORE AT JARESORTS.COM

HOW TO ENTER Visit our Website weddingsandhoneymoonsmagazine.com and enter on our competitions page with the answer to this question: Which Maldives atoll is JA Manafaru located on?

TERMS AND CONDITIONS The prize is for one couple •The prize includes a six-night stay in a Sunset Water Villa with Infinity Pool at JA Manafaru • Competition closes on 31/03/2023 • Prize valid until 31/12/2023 • Winner Stays Available: 20th Apr 2023 – 23rd Dec 2023. Winner Stays Not Available (Festive Dates): 24 Dec 2023 – 31st Dec 2023 • Paid Bonus Package Stay Extension Available • *Additional compulsory festive supplementary charges will be applied for meals on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year at the Gala Dinner • Please contact JA Manafaru’s Reservations team to discuss all arrangements and charges for extensions to stay • All rates are inclusive of service charges and the Government’s green tax • Prize winner reservation is subject to availability • Non-transferable and non-refundable • Competition closes 31/03/2023. CONTACT: Reservations Tel.: +960 650 0456 | +971 4814 5500 Email: reservations.manafaru@jaresorts.com

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DISCOVER THE BEST KEPT SECRET IN SAINT LUCIA AND IMMERSE YOURSELF IN TRUE CARIBBEAN LUXURY East Winds is a breath taking tropical garden by the sea, set on a sandy, secluded storybook beach. Our Caribbean hideaway is the island’s original boutique resort, featuring 30 cottage style suites and an ocean front beach house, tucked away amongst lush plants, trees, and a kaleidoscope of colourful bird life. East Winds is home to what many consider the island’s finest beach shared only by a small number of like-minded travellers. Guests at East Winds can expect personalized care, exclusive adventures, and an all-inclusive service, as well as the most authentic of Caribbean experiences.

KNOWBEFO YOU GO Fl ND ESSENTIAL INFORMATION BEFORE TAKING OFF FOR YOUR ADVENTURE

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CYPRUS Exclusive Yacht Weddings: The team will guarantee a perfect setting for your wedding day. One of their beautiful yachts will be able to host your dream event, and the superb 5-star service will be the cherry on the cake for an unforgettable wedding experience. exclusiveyachtweddings.com Flight time: 4 1/2 hours Wedding Documents: • Valid passport with a minimum of 6 months • Single status declaration, with Apostille, original decree absolute or death certificate if applicable, with Apostille Best time to visit: May-June or September-October

FRANCE Marry Me in France: Beth Stretton, founder of Marry Me in France, works from her UK office and plans magical weddings anywhere in France. With years of planning under her belt, you have nothing to worry about and you can sit back and enjoy this extraordinary moment in your life. marrymeinfrance.com Flight time: 1 hour and 40 minutes Wedding Documents: • A Valid Passport or a French resident permit • Long Form Birth Certificate • Proof of Domicile • Prenuptial agreement • Divorce Certificate or Death Certificate of the previous spouse if applicable Best time to visit: March - October

MARRY ME IN FRANCE THE FRENCH WEDDING EXPERTS www.marr ymeinfrance.com

GIBRALTAR Hour Weddings: Hour Weddings is an experienced, professional and creative wedding planning company based in Gibraltar. They believe ‘every wedding should be unique and utterly distinctive no matter how extravagant or intimate.’ hourweddings.com Flight Time: 2 hours and 55 minutes Wedding Documents: • Valid passport • Proof of annulment of any previous marriages • Marriage License, applied for within 3 months of wedding • You must prove you have stayed in Gibraltar for at least one night prior to the Wedding Best Time to Visit: May - October

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KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

GUERNSEY White Dove: White Dove is a wedding planning and celebrant service based on Guernsey. Operating on the Channel Islands since 2008, the team at White Dove offer a fully personalised service and will work with you to ensure that each ceremony is created to reflect yourself and your partner as unique individuals. whitedove.gg/weddings Travel Time: 3-hour ferry Wedding Documents: • Marriage license • A valid passport or UK birth certificate Best time to Visit: April - September

ISLE OF WIGHT SDC Marquees: SDC Marquees is an experienced Marquee hire company offering top quality marquees to celebrate weddings, celebrations, parties and events. They offer a completely bespoke service and their wedding marquees can be tailored to fit any kind of wedding, no matter your dreams or budget. sdcmarquees.com/weddings Flight time: 15 Minutes with Hovercraft Covid-19 Requirements: • No Covid 19 restrictions as of 17th February 2022 Wedding Documents: • Notice of marriage • Valid ID • Evidence of annulment of previous marriages Best time to visit: April - September

LONDON La Fête: Elevating your wedding day is always possible with La Fête. Specialising in extraordinary, bespoke events around the world, from intimate elopements to grand black-tie celebrations, you can count on Charlotte Ricard-Quesada to create a mesmerising wedding day for you and your guests. la-fete.com Flight Time: N/A Wedding Documents: • Marriage license • A valid passport or UK birth certificate Best time to Visit: March - December

La Fête is the high-end wedding & event planning company with a difference, particularly in its multicultural approach. www.la-fete.com • @officiallafete • charlotte@la-fete.com • +44 (0)207 427 6088

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Blame Her Ranch OUTSIDE SANTA FE, NM

Where She’s Never Wrong 575-421-0128 www.blameherranch.com