May / June 2016

DESTINATION

YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO DESTINATION WEDDINGS AND HONEYMOONS

& HONEYMOONS ABROAD MAY / JUNE 2016

WIN! YOUR DREAM HONEYMOON

894

FABULOUS BRIDAL IDEAS!

BRIDAL BEAUTY

JULIE VINO SANTORINI COLLECTION

SPECIAL FEATURE

ITALY Per sempre Amore!

INSPIRATIONAL

WEDDINGS FROM OUR

Real-Life Brides

Incredible

DESTINATIONS

£4.95 www.dwha.co.uk

3 w w w. d w ha . co . u k FASHION BEAUT Y INSPIRATION EXPERT ADVICE DESTINATIONS

www.baros.com

CONTENTS MAY / JUNE

INSPIRED

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Moodboard: This season’s hottest pieces Kilshane House: Spring inspiration in the country In the Next Issue: A peak into the July/August issue Interview: With floral designer Rob Van Helden Sunglasses: Explore your summer style Interview: With wedding planner Bruce Russell Planned to Perfection: Top 10 wedding planners around the world

POEM

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Poem: To inspire love

REAL WEDDINGS

62 68 73 78 82

Magic in Montreux: A stylish wedding in Switzerland Italian Idyll: Rustic charm in Italy Winter Wonderland: The ultimate white wedding in Lapland A fairy tale romance: Nature’s paradise in Lake Como Dominican Dream: A beachside bonaza in the Dominican Republic

FASHION

95 98

Interview: With international bridal designer Julie Vino Island Intrigue: A lookbook of Julie Vino’s Santorini collection 109 Something New, Something old 111 Something Blue, Something Borrowed 114 Lingerie: Sensual, delicate and flirtatious 117 Find Your Perfect Dress: Feel and look beautiful 123 Bridesmaids: Get your girls looking glamorous 131 Flower Girls: Designer Mischka Aoki radiates style with her flower girl collection 136 Prim & Clover: Design your own dress

BEAUTY

141

Claire Salter: Three make-up looks for a gorgeous wedding day 149 Get your fantasy figure: with Niko Algeri 153 Interview: With hair stylist Kerry

Page 95

2

INTERVIEW WITH JULIE J a n uVINO a r y / Fe b ru a r y

Inspiration

FOR HIM

157 158 159 160 161 162

Trend Serenity: Hues of blue to keep cool Trend Fiesta: Red hot for summer Page boy: Perfect pieces for the little ones Men’s Accessories: On-trend in style Men-U skin review: Treat your skin Waldorf Hilton: Review

DESTINATIONS

165 172 182 187 194 199 207 212 216 221

New York: The City that Never Sleeps Costa Rica: Welcome to Costa Rica Indian Ocean: Honeymoon Hideaway United Arab Emirates : Arabian Nights Spain: Vibrant Valencia Italy: Italian Amour South Africa: Bona Dea Private Estate Turks and Caicos: Romance on Point Grenada: Spice of Life Alps: Alpine Be Mine

PLANNING

228 236 237

268 274

A day in the life of a Wedding Photographer Competition: Win a luxury holiday!

Know Before You Go: The definitive guide for every destination bride Wedding countdown #Inspiration: Our swoon-worthy selection of inspirational photographs

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Page 199 ITALIAN AMOUR

SUNGLASSES w w w. d w ha . co . u k

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HOTEL MARINEDDA - NORTH SARDINIA Recently upgraded to 5* status, the Hotel Marinedda Thalasso & SPA is a resort that combines a dreamy Italian landscape with world-class luxury and stunning spa treatments. You can’t help but drift away…

SCENIC SARDINIA Located on the Costa Rossa of Sardinia, a rugged, pink-hued coastline dotted with deep green shrubbery and lapped by turquoise ocean, lies the Hotel Marinedda Thalasso & SPA. The rooms are bright and airy featuring local stonework, heavy chestnut beams and wrought iron details in typical Sardinian style. The Executive Elicriso is the crowning jewel and perfect for a honeymoon, with its private Thalasso pool and stunning sea-views. The look and feel of the resort melt into the stunning landscape, allowing you to unwind in 5* comfort without ever forgetting where you are, and meaning getting married here will be a breeze. Take advantage of the staff and their years of expertise then simply let your surroundings do the rest!

RUSTIC ROMANCE Indeed, it’s difficult to imagine a location better suited to romance. The Marinedda restaurants are cosy and offer the kind of fresh, mouthwatering gastronomy you might expect from a 5* establishment off the west coast of Sardinia. If you can tear yourself away from the hotel, a 15 minute walk away is the charming town of Isola Rossa. This bustling harbour is the perfect spot for a stroll along the seafront, dotted with quaint wooden fishing boats, bustling shops and bars, and ideal for viewing sweeping sunsets. From here you can go on all sorts of excursions to explore the delights of Northern Sardinia!

SPA HEAVEN The main focus of the resort is on wellness and relaxation, with one of the most prestigious Thalasso Spas in the Mediterranean and a stunning array of high quality services on offer. Let the healing properties of fresh seawater treatments invigorate and regenerate you entirely; work your body back into tip-top shape at the gym; or simply sink into blissful serenity in one of the sea-water pools complete with hydro massage systems.

EXQUISITE ESCAPE With an exquisitely romantic atmosphere along with service and facilities designed to alleviate any iota of stress, the Marinedda is a hotel that offers a suspended reality.

Whether you are planning a honeymoon or a wedding, watching the sun set over the Mediterranean from here is an experience you will never forget!

For more details, visit (hotelmarinedda.com) 16

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EDITOR’S LETTER

S

usannah (lucky thing) is currently globetrotting, visiting some of the most captivating wedding and honeymoon destinations in the world. We can’t wait to hear about her exciting discoveries! She will be back in the hot seat next issue sharing them with us.

In the meantime a discovery that we can share with you is the awesome ‘Rich Coast’ that is Costa Rica (page 172). When naming this amazing and beautiful country, Christopher Columbus might not have envisaged air travel. But with direct flights now available from the UK (amongst other places) the time is right to explore once again its tropical beaches, stunning waterfalls and luxury spas.

We also feature the dazzling Dubai (page 187)- a city infused with lavish resorts, spectacular views, and with an essence of purity and adventure. Enjoy bumpy rides along the sand dunes, get an adrenaline fix in one of the many water parks or simply unwind on the beach. Dubai has something for everyone.

An old favorite of the DWHA team (and mine) is New York. A visit to the “Big Apple” (page 165) brings with it the tantalising aroma of mouth-watering street food, which can be wonderfully complemented by a sweet cranberry martini at a rooftop bar. The Manhattan skyline is truly unforgettable, whilst for proposals and weddings immerse yourselves within the love and nature of Central Park. What a picture perfect backdrop for your wedding album!

Our options don’t end with the Americas; we also feature the breathtaking Indian Ocean; the mesmerizing Maldives, the resplendent La Réunion and the sensational spice isle of Zanzibar. All of us at DWHA towers have been working (and travelling) overtime for this issue to bring you stunning destinations that you can get truly lost in love at.

Of course for your beautiful destination you must have the perfect dress. Don’t worry, we have not forgotten the dress! I recently had the pleasure of meeting the fantastic Julie Vino (page 95).

We chatted about her gorgeous designs and future plans, we also showcase her breathtaking 2016 Santorini Collection (page 98). This is not to be missed! Julie’s dresses are stunning; there is something for everyone and for all destinations.

I hope you enjoy this issue and what I am sure will transpire to be a beautiful wedding adventure followed by lifelong happiness. Please do email me any experiences you would like to share with us. I would love to hear from you. In the meantime we have thoroughly enjoyed putting this issue together and from all of us at DWHA -- congratulations!

Angie

ON THE COVER

Angela Cropper Editorial Director

WORLDWIDE PROPOSAL

Dress: SASSI HOLFORD www.sassiholford.com

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“My fiancé proposed to me while we were on vacation in San Francisco and Napa Valley. While we were touring Sterling Vineyard, we went on a private walk amongst the grapes. It was gorgeous. He stopped and told me he had been having such a wonderful first half of our trip with me as his girlfriend. Then he knelt down on one knee and said he would love to spend the rest of it with me as his fiancée.

I was so surprised that I had to ask him if I had said ‘yes!’

We’ve been together for five and a half years, and we can’t wait to spend the rest of our lives together.” —Selina Ray Ma y / J u n e

I Love Page 147 ON TREND: Bridal Beauty

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Angela Cropper

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Susannah Pask

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Agnes Wysocka

Art Director Ana Sousa

Production Manager Hope Glass

Destinations Editor Laura Bell

Publishing Executives Caitlin Innes, Amara Wyatt, Andriani Lambrou, Waranya Tosh

Features Jessica Hogg

Global Marketing Director Kevin Killen

Picture Editor Opal Jordan

European Marketing Director Julia Muller-Hermann

Editorial Assistants Susan Dickie, Heather Hill, Georgina Crosswell

Sales Director Brian James Horrocks

Social Media Christina Tsangaris

Account Directors Anthony Baines, Adam Lamb

www.dwha.co.uk

Director of Corporate Affairs Nicholas Lloyd

Editorial +44 (0) 207 236 2515 Advertising +44 (0) 207 236 2828

Chairman Parry Cockwell

WINNIE

KERRY GOBERDHAN

JULIE VINO

What is your favourite romance movie of all time?

I know it sounds kinda cliché but, definitely “ The Notebook”

What is your favourite romance movie of all time?

The Wedding Date, with Deborah Messing and Dermont Murloney, it’s my go to movie.

What is your favourite romance movie of all time?

When Harry Met Sally

Where’s your dream honeymoon destination and why?

Punta Mita: in an intimate beachside villa where it’s quiet with a great view and excellent weather.

Where’s your dream honeymoon destination and why?

Sweden! Because of its romantic nordic history and to have the opportunity to experience the aurora borealis on my honeymoon!

Fashion Designer

Stylist

Designer

Where’s your dream honeymoon destination and why?

The beaches of Thailand. The combination of beautiful beaches and the blue water creates the perfect romantic feeling.

This publication may not be re-produced or transmitted in any form or in part without written permission of the publisher. ISSN 2056-8533. Content is available for syndication please contact the publisher for more details.

While every effort has been made to ensure that the information is correct, neither the author nor publisher can be held responsible for inadvertent inaccuracies or omissions. DWHA, 65/66 Queen Street, London, EC4R 1EB

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Ma y / J u n e

INSPIRED

IN THIS SECTION Crystallised floral fancy ring £70, Classic elegance ring £60, Majestic feather ring £70, at Pandora.net Photography by Angie Cropper

26 32 37 38 46 48 62

Moodboard Kilshane house In the Next Issue Rob van helden interview Bruce russell Interview Planned to perfection Real Life Weddings

MOODBOARD TOP TRENDS Style essentials and ones to watch this season

SMALL BUT MIGHTY!

Rose gold accentuates white perfectly. Whether you opt for a sleek updo or beachy waves, these gorgeous gems demand attention!

PEACH PERFECTION!

Named after a goddess, cut for a princess and fit for a queen! This intricate rose-gold design is made to order and with this much sparkle, it is totally worth the wait.

Mini icon aura stud earrings, £495, astleyclarke.com

Astarte ring, peach morganite, £5594, annasheffield.com

We love...

GRACE LOVES LACE

Dosa leather heel with laxmi anklet, £417 at graceloveslace.com.au

With a background in French lace lingerie and a production studio in Australia, Grace Loves Lace is an absolute dream for destination weddings in the sun! Exclusively online, this original brand takes a step away from the ‘bridal uniform’. All dresses are intricately detailed, breathtakingly modern, and subtly sexy — perfect for stylish brides with a romantic heart. Dress, £628 at graceloveslace.com.au 26

Ma y / J u n e

Inspiration

Strut in style

For the boys!

We love the lace panels on these Freya Rose ‘Victoria’ heels, £295. White shoes are an obvious choice but clever detailing keeps them fresh! freyarose.com

A casual look doesn’t have to slack on style — these cool accessories add luxury to any basics.

Churchill style, Anthony Cleverley range from George Cleverley, £995, gjcleverley.co.uk

Cartier d’amour wedding band, £770, cartier.co.uk

Montblanc 4810 orbis terrarum watch, £3690.59, montblanc.com OUR APOLOGIES GO OUT TO THE TALENTED

PHOTOGRAPHY TEAM OF KTF FOTOGRAFIE

FOR OUR MISSED PHOTO-CREDIT ON OUR PREVIOUS ISSUE!

Cute and quirky

Don’t miss an opportunity to discover their innovative work and brilliant creativity by checking out their website of fantastic wedding photography! Full of artistic flair and originality there is no better team to capture the memories of your special day in the romantic region of the Netherlands! www.ktf.nl

We love these quirky and unique art designs from Crafty Foxx! The bright patterns, rich fabrics and adorable frames are handmade using high-quality wood and an acrylic glazing, making them the perfect gifts for an engagement, wedding or anniversary. craftyfoxx.com

Let it shine

Diamonds are an overwhelming favourite when it comes to bridal jewellery and these pieces prove why! Simple and elegant designs will always complement your dress, whichever style you choose. We adore them!

JANE NORMAN Based in London and with over 60 years in fashion, UK-brand Jane Norman is confident about making women look and feel their best.

After a complete rebranding, the brand is now sold exclusively online and as a concession. For sassy, sexy and stylish looks, it is an ideal choice for girls who refuse to be tied down by the latest fashion fad! From the perfect LBD to the all-important figure-flattering jeans, Jane Norman is not to be forgotten!

ICING ON THE CAKE All of Roza Suszek’s wedding cakes are handmade, and they taste as good as they look! Go for a design with lots of tiers for a showstopping centre-piece. POA, facebook.com/Roza-Suszek

Jools by Jenny Brown, round tennis bracelet, £225, johnlewis.com

Sophie ring by Claire Pettibone, £3172, trumpetandhorn.com w w w. d w ha . co . u k

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Travel Tip

Opting for a wedding planner can ease the stress of organising a destination wedding, leaving you to relax in peace!

W RETREAT & SPA — MALDIVES Host your ceremony on the dazzling shores of the private paradise, Fesdu Island, located in the mesmeric Maldives.

Stay at the blissful W Retreat & Spa Maldives, where the rooms are breathtakingly beautiful and the landscape a tropical dream. Why not make this the site of the most important event of your life and marry beneath the dancing palm trees with your feet in the caressing sand?

ate The ultdim wed inegin packag ise! parad

Launching their new and personalised ‘Wed Your Way’ campaign, W Retreat pull out all the stops so that you experience the most exquisitely memorable and unique day of your life. Delivering dynamic decadence, spectacular scenery and personalised professionalism, W Retreat offers couples three programmes to suit your every need.

Whether you want a magnificent ball or an intimate ceremony on a secluded island, their excellent team of planners are on-hand to guide you every step of the way (wretreatmaldives.com).

We love

Sw e e t scent

ST YLE RADAR

28

This coloured bangle is the perfect pop of colour — its exotic vibe makes it the perfect honeymoon accessory!

Extend the celebrations and grab this cute 10th birthday Collector’s Edition fragrance before it’s gone. The packaging is simply adorable!

London Road 9ct pimlico bangle, rose gold, £3650, johnlewis.co.uk

Nina Pop eau de toilette by Nina Ricci, £42, johnlewis.co.uk

Ma y / J u n e

SPRING SHOOT

THE

NEW CLASSIC

Kilshane House plays host to this gorgeous Spring shoot, featuring pastel colours with a classic, timeless feel Photography by Paula O’ Hara

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Inspired

We love...

SOFT, DREAMY PASTELS The colours in this shoot are so subtle yet so romantic! Baby pink and blue are the new Pantone colours of the year, and the two are delicately mixed together here, with high notes of white and deep marsala tones to add depth.

The details are mostly soft fabrics and ribbon, while the calligraphy on the stationery is light and elegant. Get the look by keeping your tables simple and letting the flowers do the talking — albeit with some atmospheric scented candles!

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Credits

Styled for Irish Publication: Confetti.ie Photography: Paula O’Hara, paulaohara.com Styling and Props: Alise Taggart, alisetaggart.com Florals: Bella Botanica, bellabotanicaflowers.com Stationery: Four Hats Press, fourhatspress.com Cakes: Gift Cakes, giftcakes.ie Hair Styling: Bridget Haren for Altamoda Hair & Beauty, assisted by Nicole Mitchell, bridgetharen.com Makeup: Anita Conroy for The Powder Room Studio, powderroomstudio.ie Models: Gracie for 1st Option Models, 1stoption.ie, Alex for Pulse Models, pulsemodels.ie Dresses: The White Gallery, Myrtle Ivory, Verona Bridal, Marian Gale, Sharon Hoey, Anabel Rose Suit: Louis Copeland, louiscopeland.com Rings: Rocks Jewellers, rocks.ie Earrings and Accessories: Myrtle Ivory, myrtleivory.com Venue: Kilshane House Videography: Conor Stafford, csvmedia.ie Film Scans: UK Film Lab, ukfilmlab.com 34

Ma y / J u n e

Inspired

Diva long earrings, Oliver Weber, £119, cadenzza.co.uk

ssic

la The New C

MOOD LILAC GREY

SUMMER BLUE

MOON LIGHT

BOARD

Large fascinator, £189, prettyeccentric.co.uk

Rose gold vermeil ring 0.32ct, £81.99, gemporia.com

CELADON GREEN

Aquamarine daisy necklace, £109, cadenzza.co.uk

Liza dress, £190,reiss.co.uk

Francine textured jacket £130, phase-eight.co.uk

Nail polish in Cashmere, £6, marksandspencer.com Midi tote bag, £39.50, marksandspencer.com

Betti court shoe £80, dunelondon.com

Serenite sterling silver bracelet, £72, gemporia.com

w w w. d w ha . co . u k

Cream candle, £4.99, newlook.com 35

DON’T MISS!

In the

next issue...

WIN £25 ,00 0

PRIZE

Wedding in

South Africa Honeymoon in the

Greek Islands

Must-see styles from

NEW YORK

International

Dreamy Destinations from around the globe

Bridal Week!

Top 10 Worldwide

Wellness Resorts UGUST JULY/A UE ISS LE ON SA

e n u J h t 0 1 2016

NIKO ALGIERI

Fitness adviser to the stars!

Brazil...

Special Feature w w w. d w ha . co . u k

37

INTERVIEW WITH

ROB VAN HELDEN Rob Van Helden opens up about 30 years in the flower business and lets us explore his “Aladdin’s Cave” of decorative treasures!

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Ma y / J u n e

Fashion

Firstly, congratulations on the 30th year of your business! What inspired you to start up in floristry?

Thank you! I’ve always had a lifelong love for flowers. I grew up in Holland and was always surrounded by them, and my dad used to buy beautiful flowers for my mum every Friday. As a child I spent my weekends in the village flower shop helping out. When I came over to London, I ended up working in the flower industry. After 30 years I still get up every morning, where every day is different, wanting to do my job. It’s a passion, and flowers just bring happiness.

How do you find your inspiration for your designs?

It changes with the seasons. I find it depends a lot on the places I visit. I’ve been lucky to travel all over the world, whether it’s for parties, weddings, or consultancies, and of course inspiration can be found all over. It also comes from day-to-day life. I may spot things when I look around, or go shopping for props, and just see items or trends that I can make my own.

What is your favourite wedding destination?

I’ve done about 35 weddings in India so far, so that’s one that always sticks out. There have also been a lot in Europe, places like the South of France and the Amalfi Coast that are lovely for weddings. We’ve also done LA, Mexico, the Maldives — and not just for weddings but for parties too. The job is worldwide but each job within that is different!

39

What would you say are the current trends in floristry?

Going into spring and summer there are beautiful peonies coming out, and even tulips that can look very pretty, so I go with the seasons. But I very much have to keep in mind as well what the venue is going to be, like if there’s a marquee or a hotel ballroom, or if it’s on a beach. There are a lot of important things to think about that lead those trends.

Are there are any consistent trends you have noticed over the years that have stuck around?

I’ve noticed that budgets have changed over the years, what with recessions and everything, but people still always want to walk in and have that wow factor. I think it’s the impact that can be achieved with flowers that have remained. It would be nice to be a guest because you have the privilege of seeing all these displays around you that are just breathtaking.

Do weddings differ a lot to other types of events you cater for?

With weddings you always have a lot of pastels; a lot of brides like the traditional whites and soft colours, or deep rich colours in the winter. With parties you can go a bit funkier, whether it’s a bar mitzvah or a 50th birthday. I like to keep that elegance and sophistication for a wedding, though you do get the occasional bride who wants to go off the wall and actually I just think, good on them! At least it’s something a bit different than the expected.

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Ma y / J u n e

Fashion

Do you have a signature aesthetic that you stick to, despite the location?

I like flowers to speak for themselves, and hate when they’re painted or dyed. I also like an abundance of one type of flower. A signature element though would have to be my wedding bouquets. I love using my all-time favourites, Lily of the Valley, as I think the delicacy and exquisiteness of the lilies always looks timeless.

Although as important as flowers are to me, the bouquet should never take over from the dress, but complement it perfectly.

Aside from the bouquet, do you have another favourite element you like working on?

I love the use of props, and I have my own prop company that started years ago. Because of my shopping addiction I was just buying and buying, and having that company meant I could go out and buy more props and launch something new all the time. In the past it seemed the more flowers, the better. Now, with a beautiful prop, you can cut back on the flowers and have a gorgeous candelabra or vase, which can help to create a style and an ambience. I have a warehouse full of stuff — my own Aladdin’s Cave!

Do clients have a lot of input in putting designs or elements together?

It’s a matter of hand-holding. I meet every client personally, get as much information as I can to find out what they like, and then I put my twist to it. My clients get me excited. If they don’t I’m not the right guy for the job. I need to put my heart and soul into it, as it’s a process right up to the day of the wedding, so that partnership is important.

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What’s next for the brand?

Well we’ve done 30 years but I’d like to see it continue for many more years to come! We’ve got the prop hire company; a perfumed candle and diffuser range; we do a lot of consultancy worldwide where hotels or parties fly me and a team in to undertake the job — so every day brings a new project and that keeps me excited!

Do you have a lot booked in for the year already; is that something that happens very early on?

Yes, it’s looking like a busy year again! That’s the beauty though because I’ve always said that the day I get up and don’t want to go to the flower market or want to meet people, that’s the day I forget it. But I am still passionate about it and being busy keeps me going! It’s so much more interesting to me to travel and be able to get out of an office, and it’s all very hands on! We have a big team of staff, and depending on the size of the function we also have some regular freelancers, as well as people who have been with me for years. You’re nothing without the people around you. I still do all the proposals and designs, and we do all the setups for the brides so they can see how it will look on the day. It’s definitely a hobby that has grown into a profession.

Thank you for taking the time to talk to us Rob, and good luck for the year ahead!

The Rob Van Helden brand is based at 8 Tun Yard, Peardon Street, London. To begin your own experience visit rvhfloraldesign.com 42

Ma y / J u n e

Imagine

MonsCalpeSuite.com G I B R A L T A R

A spectacular & unique venue situated 412m at the Top of the Rock, GIBRALTAR • events@monscalpesuite.com • +350 200 12745

Brasilia, £255 at shop.prismlondon.com

Gabardine lace, £250 at uk.burberry.com

SUN GLASSES

Piercing bar round frame, £265 at alexandermcqueen.com Whistles Olivia Fade Catseye Sunglasses, £75, houseoffraser.co.uk

A sunny getaway isn’t complete without new sunglasses. These hot styles will keep you looking and feeling cool!

Brooklyn, £265 at shop.prismlondon.com

Quinn, £199 at orlebarbrown.co.uk Vivy,£390 at jimmychoo.com Cobalt oversized cat eye, £205 at stellamccartney.com/gb

EA 4062, £154 at sunglasseshut.com Rollright, £170 at taylormorriseyewear.com

Clementine, £116.46 at michaelkors.com

Vredefort, £150 at taylormorriseyewear.com

Voyager, £160 at taylormorriseyewear.com

Falabella oversized square, £425 at stellamccartney.com/gb w w w. d w ha . co . u k

Try a modern twist on an old classic! Bright colours, fun details and quirky shapes are just perfect for summer!

45

INTERVIEW WITH

BRUCE RUSSELL Photography by Jez Dickson

Bruce Russell, a leading figure in the wedding industry, talks to us about parties, planning and pizza!

Hampshire so I tend to go swimming there.

I’m also a sucker for a crime or legal drama — that’s my escapism.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A WEDDING PLANNER? I worked in hospitality and I always loved entertaining at home. Somebody once said, I wish I had known you two years ago so you could have planned my wedding!

That stuck in my head, and I decided to utilise the tools I already had to help create the whole wedding experience.

IT IS WHAT IT IS BECAUSE OF THE ORGANISATION AND THE TIMING BEHIND IT, BUT ALSO THE PERSONALISATION OF THE ELEMENTS BASED ON MY CLIENTS’ VISION.” 46

DO YOU HAVE A REGULAR STRUCTURE TO YOUR WEDDING PLANNING? Day to day, the structure is waking up and going to bed at some point! But seriously though, the main structure is timing and organisation. Whether I’m working with a client that has provided 12 months or just 3 weeks notice, I allocate the timing and resources to whatever needs to be done within that timeframe.

WITH SUCH A BUSY WORK SCHEDULE, WHAT DO YOU DO TO RELAX? I live not far from the Four Seasons in Ma y / J u n e

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE WEDDING DESTINATION? At the moment I’d say Italy. It’s easy to access yet it feels like you’re a million miles away. Whether you’re looking for something that’s sophisticated and romantic, or a little bit more whimsical or ‘boho chic’, Italy has much to offer. I’m visiting again as part of the Destination Wedding Planners Congress in Florence soon and I can’t wait!

DO YOU HAVE A SIGNATURE STYLE? It’s organisational, rather than a specific style. Clients are always going to have different ideas, and I don’t want couples to look at photos from two different weddings and see similarities. It is what it is because of the organisation, and the personalisation and style is based on my clients’ vision.

DO COUPLES TEND TO COME TO YOU WITH A PLAN, OR DO THEY LEAVE IT ALL TO YOU? It’s a bit of both. I’ve had weddings where somebody’s contacted me with things already booked or planned and I was hired to piece it all together. Others just say, ‘I have absolutely no idea’. The main thing is to sit with them, ask insightful questions, and then I can express suggestions and ideas.

Inspired WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE WEDDING THAT YOU HAVE PLANNED? It’s always the last one, because that’s the closest. But upon reflection I’d say it has something to do with the people. We produced a brilliant wedding in Marrakech two years ago. I felt like part of the family as everyone was so friendly. It was the personal dynamics of the guests that made it that way, and that’s special. A destination wedding especially has that feel of an experience.

Everyone has a chance to meet and mingle, and there’s no rush. You can take a step back and experience each individual element.

AND YOUR OWN WEDDING; WHAT WAS PLANNING THAT LIKE? We kept it very personal. For me it was about looking at choices. I provided three choices for each element that I was happy with, and my partner chose one. It was guaranteed to work!

We wanted a venue where our guests could stay overnight so we could feel at home, and we wanted to keep things relaxed and quite English. The venue we chose was Botleys Mansion in Surrey, which was really lovely.

WOULD YOU SAY THE VENUE IS MOST IMPORTANT, OR DOES IT FALL TO OTHER ELEMENTS? It’s about identifying within the couple the elements that are important to them.

You can then focus on those things. The venue does dictate a lot of what you can do though, so you must ensure it’s possible to achieve what you want within that space.

WHICH CELEBRITY WEDDING DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE PLANNED? For fun, I’d say Kim Kardashian’s. The fact that they flew people to three different destinations was just amazing. And one

IT’S ALSO THE CREATIVE PROCESS, AND THAT FINAL ‘WOW’ MOMENT WHEN THEY SEE THE END RESULT.” that I always think about is Grace Kelly’s.

Today, so much is possible, but that was magical! They’re my two extremes!

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB? Having the opportunity to work with a couple on such an important and special day. But it’s also the creative process, and that final ‘wow’ moment when they see the end result.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO COUPLES LOOKING TO HIRE A WEDDING PLANNER? There are so many planners out there who have different specialties, so it’s important to meet with them. Most of the enquiries I get are via email and are often about cost.

However, I would never want anyone to hire me on the basis of cost, as chemistry is paramount.

I JUST LOVE ORGANISING AND CELEBRATING.” DO YOU HAVE A PERSONAL SECRET? I love pizza — I would eat it three times a day if I could! Also, Russell is not my surname, but my middle name. Until I started my business I’d never even used it. My surname is Chiasson, which is French-Canadian, but when I branded my business and decided to put my name to it, I thought nobody would be able to remember, write, or pronounce Chiasson, so I thought it was a good time to use Russell!

AND FINALLY, WHAT’S NEXT FOR BRUCE RUSSELL? Taking the brand international is something I want to focus on. I also want to grow into what I call the ‘social lifestyle’ industry, the intimate private parties and social occasions. For me, it doesn’t matter whether it’s a wedding for 300 or a dinner party for 10. I just love organising and celebrating. But there’s something special about weddings… they’re smothered in love!

SOUNDS EXCITING! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR TALKING TO US AND WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING A LOT MORE FROM YOU! To find out more, visit bybrucerussell.com

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Behind the Camera

PLAN TO PERFECTION

Whilst you might have already decided on that perfect dress, fallen madly in love with a venue or put together the most unique colour scheme, there is still one huge mistake it’s all too easy for a couple to make. Never get so bogged down in details you forget to enjoy the most euphoric day of your life! That’s why hiring the perfect wedding planner might turn out to be the most important decision of them all…

Cocoon Events

“

We aim to be your eyes and ears on your big day so you can enjoy every single moment without any worry or distractions!

For a truly memorable experience we pride ourselves on being able to make anything possible.

Let us do the work so you can just let go!

”

Fabrice Orlando

f rom Mor roco

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“

Dream Weddings Rivie ra Maya

Destination weddings are our specialty, for the couples who are looking for a non-traditional wedding.

I am dedicated to supporting all brides, and helping you create your vision for your big day! My mission is to make sure everything is planned to perfection and to ensure you enjoy your destination wedding!

”

Aphrodite Weddings

“

Aphrodite Weddings offers the perfect wedding planning service for couples that want the fairy-tale wedding, without all the hassle of organising it.

Specialising in destination weddings in Cyprus, you’ll be welcomed to the island of love to make memories that last a lifetime!

Joyce Mnguni from Me x i c o

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”

Helen Adamou from Cy p ru s

TF Y Weddings

“

Let us take care of the day you will never forget, and show you there’s no better place than Portugal for your celebrations.

We create a story that lasts forever from the moment you arrive. From beautiful vineyards to stunning beaches, we have everything to make your day special!

”

Ana Moreira

f ro m Po r tu g a l

Inspired

“

Lake Garda Weddings

As Lake Garda’s leading wedding planner, we arrange weddings to suit all budgets and tastes on the shores of Italy’s largest lake.

Our passion is organising a stunning wedding from start to finish, in one of our many stunning venues, to create the perfect day!

”

Gwen Courtman

f rom Italy

“

Kristeen LaBrot Events

“

We believe each event should tell a story through cohesive design. At Kristeen LaBrot Events, we design, plan and style unique and personalised celebrations, based on what our couples are passionate about and which details are the most important. Uniqueness for your big day is our specialty!

Alago Events

“

Our weddings reflect the natural beauty of the island and you can’t get a more beautiful island than Mallorca. Every wedding is one of a kind to us, and our presence at your wedding will allow you to relax and simply enjoy your big day!

”

”

Kristeen LaBrot

Mandy Alago

from Californ i a — U S A

Jess +972 Event Production

A wedding in Israel is special and memorable.

Take your dream and blend it with Israeli creativity — the perfect mix of the traditional and the cosmopolitan, the ancient and the modern. It is a magical day rich with unique experiences, and we look forward to helping you tell your story.

”

“

from Sp ai n

Snob Events Production

Having mastered the art of reflecting individual styles and personalities, we offer a service for destination weddings that gives you a plethora of exciting opportunities! Our dedicated planners produce creative and bespoke weddings, working to make your vision a reality.

”

Jessica Lasky

Par vy Rakar

from Isr ae l

from U K

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Get Married In France

“

I provide an award winning, innovative and highly personal planning and stylingservice throughout France. My philosophy is that every event should be unique, completely reflective of its key players and that with the right creative advice, every person has the chance to achieve that, no matter the nature of their event, circumstances or budget.

”

Beth Stretton

f ro m Fr a n ce

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THE PASSIONATE SHEPHERD TO HIS LOVE Come live with me and be my love, And we will all the pleasures prove, That Valleys, groves, hills, and fields, Woods, or steepy mountain yields.

And we will sit upon the Rocks, Seeing the Shepherds feed their flocks, By shallow Rivers to whose falls Melodious birds sing Madrigals.

And I will make thee beds of Roses And a thousand fragrant posies, A cap of flowers, and a kirtle Embroidered all with leaves of Myrtle; A gown made of the finest wool Which from our pretty Lambs we pull; Fair lined slippers for the cold, With buckles of the purest gold; A belt of straw and Ivy buds, With Coral clasps and Amber studs: And if these pleasures may thee move, Come live with me, and be my love.

The Shepherds’ Swains shall dance and sing For thy delight each May-morning: If these delights thy mind may move, Then live with me, and be my love.

- Christopher Marlowe

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SWITZERLAND

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ITALY

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LAPLAND

REAL LIFE

WEDDINGS Beautifully inspirational & oh so real!

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ITALY

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

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SWITZERLAND

MAGIC IN

MONTREUX Anna and Charles, both 28, took to the Swiss Riviera region of Switzerland for an enchantingly beautiful summer ceremony Photography by Ivana Girard

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Real Weddings

STYLE STEAL

It’s likely that original plans will change. Remember, this is not a problem and will often lead to better ideas. Anna had an original dress style in mind, but ended up with something opposite, then completely fell in love with it!

VINTAGE CHARM

Anna and Charlie hired vintage cars and buses to add style to their big day, bringing old-fashioned glamour to a contemporary destination wedding!

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TOP TIP!

Most hotels have the option to organise the service and reception for you. This makes it much easier to coordinate and saves you a lot of time!

A DAY TO REMEMBER

Having a theme is a fun way to add personality to your ceremony. It will be enjoyable to plan and will make the day even more memorable — for you and your guests!

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e’ve spent a lot of time in Switzerland, but we wanted to share the beauty of this country with our closest friends and family, as most had never visited it. Montreux was the area we settled on; it has remarkable views of the majestic Alps and is nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, which makes it feel like one of the most surreal and romantic places in the world!

Charlie and I were immediately enamoured with the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace! It provided the perfect setting for our wedding with its old-world charm, contemporary luxury, and breathtaking views. Plus, with a quaint nineteenth-century Orthodox church located in the neighbouring town of Vevey, we knew we had found the perfect place for our wedding.

With so many different opinions and ideas out there on how to have the perfect wedding, it’s easy to get caught up in the little things that can add up, cost-wise! Keep a list of what is truly important to you, and if you then want extra touches like a memory photo wall or a guest book, you can do it yourself!

Our wedding took place in late July and we wanted to capture the romance of the summer’s peak, so our colour palette had creams, peaches and rosy pinks. My dress was a voluminous, lacy style, drizzled with sparkle, and matched our wedding theme perfectly — romantic, vintage, and glamorous! Originally I had imagined myself in a more sleek wedding dress, but as the concept for our wedding evolved, I ended up with the complete opposite. My makeup was natural but romantic — Charlie and I had been together for 7 years prior to finally tying the knot, but I still wanted to feel and look headover-heels in love on my wedding day!

for a really fun party! Our tables were set with vintage-inspired rose, orchid and hydrangea centrepieces, adorned with cascading crystals and complemented by a plethora of crystal candleholders. The head table was also accented with crystal chandeliers, mirrors, and strings of pearls and lights. We hired vintage cars and buses, and had elements like a photobooth, tables named after the era’s famous faces, and a live trio that played New Orleans Jazz and served Mint Juleps!

The bridesmaids and I even performed the Charleston as a surprise to the guests!

Organising a destination wedding can be stressful as at times you feel that things are completely out of your control. You have to take a chance on things that you have not experienced firsthand, so it is imperative to have a good team to carry forward your vision. The Fairmont was unbelievable in listening to our ever-changing requests, catering to our every need, and making the overseas planning as smooth as possible! It’s hard work, but you just have to enjoy the preparations. Whenever you get stressed just take a deep breath and smile — this is the most exciting time of your life!

Notebook

WEDDING VENUE St. Barbara Orthodox Church WEDDING RECEPTION VENUE Fairmont Le Montreux Palace fairmont.com/montreux PHOTOGRAPHER Ivana Girard ivanagirard.com GROOM’S OUTFIT Armani tux, armani.com; shoes, hugoboss.com BRIDE’S ACCESSORIES Necklace, created by mother of the bride; Badgley Mischka shoes badgleymischka.com BOUQUETS Rieder Fleurs rieder-fleurs.ch MAKE-UP Natalia Buslova, makeup-lausanne.com CAKE Fairmont Le Montreux Palace fairmont.com/montreux CATERING Fairmont Le Montreux Palace fairmont.com/montreux ENTERTAINMENT Adriano Bassanini Jazz Productions; D.J. Niko WEDDING PLANNER Two Love Couple Events two-love.com

It’s important to have a theme for your wedding so you can create a beautiful story and setting. We chose the 1920s because the opulence of this era gave us lots of options w w w. d w ha . co . u k

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Hammered leaf round necklace, £30, uk.monsoon.co.uk Salma Dress Coral Blush £225, ghost.co.uk

Vivienne Westwood mini bas relief earrings, £79, cadenzza.co.uk

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Montre n i c i g a M

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Dress six, £275, phase-eight.com

RD A O B OOD

CALICO CREAM

SOFT PEACH

ENGLISH ROSE

Match and dazzle bracelet, £105, follifollie.co.uk

PINK POP

Atlas W debonair waistcoat, £120, tedbaker.com

White gold ring, £759, gemporia.com

Empress, £165, ivoryandcotiaras.co.uk

Vero Dodat clutch, £795, eu.christianlouboutin.com

Tom Ford nail lacquer in indian pink, £27, houseoffraser.co.uk

Helen lace dress, £160, phase-eight.com

Place card holder set of 6, £150, amara.com

Alia, £80, dunelondon.com 66

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U M B R I A , I TA LY

ITALIAN IDYLL

Adam, 31 and Charlie, 29 chose the rolling hills of Umbria as the picturesque backdrop for their special day Photography by Andrea Cittadini

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Real Weddings

WEDDING BELLS

Asking friends to contribute their area of expertise as a wedding present is a good way of keeping costs down. For example, if your best friend is a beauty therapist, why not ask her to do your wedding make up? if your brother is into music, ask him to be the DJ!

Top tip

Deep-hued flowers of red and orange paired with bright yellows and placed in jam jars adds a rustic yet charming touch to wedding tables.

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W

e chose to have a destination wedding because we wanted a whole weekend celebrating with our family and friends in the sunshine. We booked a long weekend travelling through Tuscany and Umbria visiting several potential venues, and couldn’t imagine a more idyllic location for our reception than Chiesa del Carmine! Chrissie, the manager, put us in touch with a wedding planner who took us to a nearby hilltop town called Montone. It was so incredibly picturesque we couldn’t believe we could get married there.

Luckily, our venues were so stunning they didn’t require much decoration. We went for an assortment of fairy lights, candles, paper lanterns and jam jars of rustic flowers.

We were conscious of keeping costs down, so ahead of the wedding we made our own website, invitations and table plan and asked friends and family to help with as much as possible, including being the DJ and filming the wedding video. Employing Sarah, our wedding planner, saved lots of money and hassle as she managed to negotiate great deals on catering, flowers and transport, and eased the problem of not speaking the language. We also asked for discounts on everything, including the wedding dress.

When it comes to wedding dresses, I am very anti-bride and hated the idea of wearing a traditional white dress. I loved the simple silhouette and elaborate metallic beading on the Jenny Packham Eden in Platinum. I managed to persuade Adam and my parents that spending more money on a ‘big name’ dress would make it easier to sell afterwards!

Niki Moores — my friend and very talented hairdresser — did my hair, and instead of a veil I managed to buy dried flower arrangements in England from the Artisan Dried Flower Company. I went for the gorgeous Luna headpiece by Julia Cameron as my ‘something blue’.

Our advice for anyone planning a destination wedding would be to make sure your guests are taken care of as much as possible. Happy guests make for a happy wedding! We had a magical weekend in idyllic surroundings, celebrating with all our friends and family!

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Notebook

WEDDING VENUE Montone Town Hall WEDDING RECEPTION VENUE Chiesa del Carmine, chiesadelcarmine.com PHOTOGRAPHER Andrea Cittadini, andreacittadini.com DRESS Jenny Packham, jennypackham.com SHOES Sergio Rossi, sergiorossi.com/gb BOUQUETS Salve Umbria (Sarah Potier) HAIR AND MAKE-UP Sister-in-Law, Jessica Anderson-Ramshall and friend, Niki Moores ACCESSORIES Headpiece, Julia Cameron, julia-cameron.com and Artisan Dried Flower Company, artisandriedflowers.co.uk Handbag, Anya Hindmarch, anyahindmarch.com CAKE Apollinare, ristoranteapollinare.it CATERING Apollinare, ristoranteapollinare.it WEDDING PLANNER Salve Umbria (Sarah Potier), salveumbria.com

Real Weddings Coral clip-on earrings, £99, cadenzza.co.uk

Labradorite oval stilla pendant, £140, astleyclarke.com

Metal Butterflies Ring, £245 alexandermcqueen.co.uk

MAGICAL MEMORIES

As the sun sets over the Havana horizon, and the day begins to unwind, Suzie and Max make the most of their special day surrounded by loved

Orange scuba bardot neck pencil dress, £24.99, newlook.com

l

dyl Italian I

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RD A O B OOD EGG YOLK

BURNT ORANGE

HOT PINK

Komono Estelle pastel watch, £60, zalando.co.uk

DEEP CRIMSON

Nora Bea diamond studs, £419, danarebeccadesigns.com Two Poems arm cuff, £180, bjorg jewellery.com

Seraphina bridal dress, £249, monsoon.co.uk Tom Ford sheer lip colour in paradiso, £38, houseoffraser.co.uk

Calla lily globe, £60, kellyhoppen.com

Suede wrap block mid heel, £60, riverisland.com

Circle Bag in Mustard Boucle, £944, mansurgavriel.com

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FINLAND

Real Weddings

WINTER

WONDERLAND

Ricardo and Chantal, both 24, married in Lapland, Finland after falling in love with the magical atmosphere whilst holidaying there Photography by Ralf Czogallik — Eppel Fotografie

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FINISHING TOUCHES Ricardo and Chantal placed heart-shaped hand warmers on the ice seats in the chapel for their guests. Each little bag was embellished with their names and wedding date!

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I AFTER PARTY

“Our photographer

Ricardo and Chantal decided to throw a big party in the Netherlands with all their family and friends that couldn’t make it to the wedding ceremony in Lapland.

took some gorgeous pictures with the ice and snow as the magical backdrop.”

n 2013, we went on holiday to Levi, Finland and stayed at the Snow Village Resort. We absolutely loved the destination, the nature and the way of life (we are also addicted to winter sport!). However at the time, we weren’t thinking about marriage! When Ricardo proposed in the Maldives, we both knew straight away that we wanted to marry abroad. We didn’t want a ‘normal’ destination beach wedding; we wanted a romantic winter wedding that was special to us, so we chose to go back to Finland!

We had our wedding ceremony at the amazing ice chapel in the Snow Village; it was the perfect venue for a romantic winter wedding in traditional Finnish style. We had a rustic colour palette with wooden decorations and pastel shades, but we didn’t decorate the venue too much as the styling of the Snow Village was already magical.

WEDDING VENUE AND RECEPTION VENUE Snow Village, snowvillage.fi/en/ WEDDING RINGS Le Mariage, lemariage.nl/ BRIDE’S DRESS AND ACCESSORIES Bruidsmode Ti Amo, bruidsmodetiamo.nl/ And hand-made crop top bridal jacket: Any Dress by Linda de Boer, anydress.biedmeer.nl/ Special Thermo clothing: Wolboerderij Blij Bezuiden, wolboerderij.nl/ GROOM’S WEDDING SUIT AND ACCESSORIES ROKA, roka.nl/ WEDDING RINGS BOX (and wedding table holders)

We both arrived at the ice chapel by reindeer sleigh. After the beautiful ceremony, we had our reception at the Log Restaurant, which was a little warmer than the ice chapel! We developed the wedding menu ourselves with Linda, our wedding planner, and we made personalised menu cards at home. As a surprise to our guests, we arranged a big firework show outside the restaurant. The fire rockets made a big red heart in the sky — it was so romantic, just like a movie! The next day we made the most of the setting and went up a mountain with our photographer for a photoshoot with a beautiful natural backdrop.

Bruidswerkspecialist, bruidswerkspecialist.nl/ HAIR AND MAKE-UP Relax Center, hulluporo.fi/en/relax-center/relax-center/ NAILS Miranda, nailsbymiranda.nl/ PHOTOGRAPHER Ralf Czogallik Eppel Fotografie, eppel.nl/ CATERING AND CAKE Snow Village, snowvillage.fi/en/ ENTERTAINMENT Arrival by reindeer sleigh, the fireworks and the ice glass toast in the ice bar all arranged by Snow Village, snowvillage.fi/en/ WEDDING PLANNER Linda Seppälä, snowvillage.fi/en/

The biggest challenge we faced with organising a destination wedding was the paperwork! Once we’d arranged it all, it was quite easy: we sent it to Finland and everything was fine. My top tip to anyone planning a destination wedding would be to make sure you know the destination and prepare accordingly! The most important thing is that the location has a personal meaning for you both. It is the most special day of your life after all!

Notebook

Place Card Holder Shop, etsy.com/shop/PlaceCardHolderShop BOUQUETS (and also the corsages):

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White pearl necklace, £130, lustrousjewellery.com

and l r e d n o W Winter

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Sterling silver bracelet, £96, gemporia.com

RD A O B OOD

Emilia textured rings trio, £34, oliverbonas.com MERINGUE WHITE

BERMUDA PINK

MINT GREEN

PERSIAN BLUE

Faux fur scarf, Helen Moore £35, black-by-design. co.uk

Sylvia Dress in Indigo Navy, £225, ghost.co.uk

Vega polished stainless steel cufflinks, £67, tresorparis.co.uk Silk cotton polo neck jumper, £79, jigsaw-online.com

Sorel Tivolli II suede boots, £110, mytheresa.com Grace Marquise Burst pearl earrings, £167.75 at thomaslaine.com 76

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Nordic light, £60, houseology.com

L A K E C O M O, I TA LY

A FAIRY-TALE

ROMANCE

Victoria, 31 and Matthew, 32 chose a medieval Italian castle as the setting for their laid-back wedding in Lake Como Photography by David Gravel

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Real Weddings CASTLE CHIC

Victoria and Matthew went for a tasteful colour palette of pale nudes and soft blush pinks to complement their picturesque Lake Como wedding. Understated, chic and romantic!

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e chose Italy as the stage for our destination wedding as we love the relaxed, laid-back feel of the country — for us it was the perfect choice. We visited our venue, Castello di Rossino, a number of times prior to the wedding to arrange the blessing and reception. The owner of the venue, Lisa, helped us arrange the marriage itself, which took place in the local town hall of Malgrate. Lisa’s extensive contacts and knowledge of the area alleviated the need for a wedding planner.

I got my dress from Brides of Harrogate which I selected after visiting 3 alternative wedding shops in North Yorkshire. I researched silhouettes online, but until you start trying on dresses you only have preconceptions of what may or may not be right. Pinterest was a key resource and a lot of my hair ideas came from here. As the temperature was warm, I didn’t want to wear too much make up, plus my skin was already tanned.

Notebook

WEDDING VENUE Commune di Malgrate. Blessing: Castello di Rossino, castellodirossino.com RECEPTION VENUE Castello di Rossino, castellodirossino.com WEDDING RINGS Le Mariage, lemariage.nl BRIDE’S DRESS Benjamin Roberts, Brides of Harrogate, benjaminroberts.co.uk BRIDESMAID’S DRESSES Ted Baker, tedbaker.com/uk BRIDE’S ACCESSORIES Brides of Harrogate, Kurt Geiger, kurtgeiger.com GROOM’S WEDDING SUIT Hugo Boss, hugoboss.com BOUQUETS Adda Florists HAIR AND MAKE-UP YSL, ysl.com PHOTOGRAPHER David Gravel at italianweddingphotographybydavid.com CAKE Class Eventi, classeventi.it CATERING Class Eventi, classeventi.it WEDDING PLANNER Lisa Lozio, Castello di Rossino w w w. d w ha . co . u k

It was important that the colour palette complemented the surroundings. I opted for pale nudes and soft pinks with a bright coral, which worked perfectly. The florists decorated both venues for us; we had a large floral arch at the altar, with smaller arrangements flowing down the aisle and rose petals for guests to throw.

A destination wedding does have its challenges but everything went smoothly thanks to our wonderful planner. Our top tip would be to visit the venue as often as possible prior to the wedding. Make sure you arrange meetings with suppliers in advance to ensure that your time there is as productive as possible and everything else will fall into place.

3

Merci maman personalised gemstone necklace, from £68.99, gettingpersonal.co.uk

nce

oma R e l ta y r A Fai

M FOREST GREEN

RD A O B OOD DEEP TERRACOTTA

PEACH MELBA

Caroline Neron Joyeau des Mers earrings, £49, carolineneron.com/en

PALE BLUSH

Jaegar V-Neck Dress, £225, jaegar.co.uk

Yabiku pearl comb, £175, gillianmillion.com

Grey textured trousers, £60, houseoffraser.co.uk

Green woven satin pocket square, £60, drakes.com

Vega yellow gold plated cufflinks, £149, tresorparis.co.uk

J By Jasper Conran nude zip clutch, £79, debenhams.com

Luna gems 18ct yellow gold, blue topaz & diamond ring, £475, linksoflondon.com

Shabby Chic, the peony arrangement, £50, houseoffraser.co.uk 80

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Caprice, £80, dunelondon.com

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

DOMINICAN DREAM

The wedding of Denisse, 28 and Gil, 29 was a family affair in the Dominican Republic with a sensational seashore backdrop Photography by Tom Robak

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Real Weddings

PRECIOUS MOMENTS Most luxury venues and hotels have in-house wedding planners on hand to help ease the stress of organising your destination wedding — leaving you to relax, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy your big day!

PERSONAL TOUCHES Upcycling old jars and glasses by wrapping colourful pieces of ribbon and string around them is the perfect way of adding a personal touch to your table decorations.

Finish the look by adding floral arrangements or tea-lights to your creations!

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RUSTIC CHARM

We adore the rustic, authentic dÊcor of this reception — it creates a laid-back atmosphere and a real sense of traditional love.

This relaxed vibe is continued through the neutral flowers of beige, peach and cream which perfectly complement the subtle blue theme.

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Real Weddings

BEAUTIFUL BLUES We love the oceanic feel of this wedding, with its aqua-themed cake and beach-inspired décor.

Don’t be afraid to break the mould and incorporate unusual colours and objects into your theme — these creative changes make your wedding unique!

I

am from the Dominican Republic and my husband is from Guatemala, so we decided to have the civil wedding here with all my family and friends, and the religious wedding in Guatemala with my husband’s family.

All my life I dreamed of getting married on the beach, and the restaurant Boca Marina was the perfect place to do it. In addition to having great food and excellent service, its location was superb — being very close to the city meant that most guests could return to their homes easily.

Only a few family members decided to stay in the apartments in front of the restaurant, called Vista Marina. Boca Marina is so beautiful and the restaurant is owned by my mother’s cousins who took great care of us and gave us fantastic deals.

How could we not love celebrating our marriage here?

We had a very tight budget so we looked for the most economical options whilst staying true to the vision we had for the day. The truth is that our family and friends supported us and helped out a lot! My best friend took care of the cake, the band were friends of my dad, my aunt did the souvenirs, a friend did the invitations and my cousin (who plays the viola for the National Symphony Orchestra) played at the ceremony along with two of her friends. Lights and the DJ were also friends of my dad — we couldn’t have asked for more love from everybody!

I wanted a hairstyle that was fixed but still casual, so I spent quite a lot of time looking through Pinterest until I found one that I liked.

As we were on the beach, I went for a carefree look that included waves in my hair and a very light coverage of makeup. In terms of a colour palette and décor we went for white flowers with wood and gold decorations, and the bridesmaids had aqua coloured dresses to evoke the sea. I wanted something pretty that highlighted the laid-back vibe and the natural beauty of the place we were in!

Notebook

WEDDING VENUE Marina restaurant & lounge, bocamarina.com/do WEDDING RECEPTION VENUE Boca Marina restaurant & lounge, bocamarina.com/do PHOTOGRAPHER Tom Robak, tomrobakphotography.com DRESS Adrianna Papell, macys.com BOUQUETS Impresionate, Yadhira Castro HAIR Adela Miranda MAKE-UP Indira Sanchez CAKE Cake Studio CATERING Boca Marina restaurant & lounge, bocamarina.com/do ENTERTAINMENT: Band: Peña Suazo y la Banda Gorda/ Singers: Paín Bencosme and Diomari “La Mala” Dj: Luis Montes de Oca WEDDING PLANNER Impresionate, Yadhira Castro

For my dress I wanted something simple and elegant, and not the typical princess look. At first I looked for more accessible options in shops in the city to buy or rent, but after searching and searching I found nothing that enticed me.

I started looking online at reliable websites, paying close attention to the comments of other girls who had also bought online. Finally, I found this beautiful Adrianna Papell dress at a good price and I am very happy with my decision! w w w. d w ha . co . u k

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Fashionably Silver Love Hearts necklace, £75, follifollie.co.uk

Silver drop earrings, £247, tresorparis.co.uk

Beaded dress, £325, phase-eight.com

MAGICAL MEMORIES

As the sun sets over the Havana horizon, and the day begins to unwind, Suzie and Max make the most of their special day surrounded by loved

M

ream D n a c i n i Dom

Baja bracelet in green onyx, £210, monicavinader.com

RD A O B OOD SILK SHIMMER

ASH GREY

SKY BLUE

DEEP TEAL

Tooting, £239, radley.co.uk

Pearlsa, £145, tedbaker.com Dress, £130, gerryweber.com

Emerald & White zircon 9k gold ring, £120, gemporia.com Estella vintage velvet fringe micro-bag, £250, biondacastana.com

Malory ivory satin, £425, rupertsanderson.com

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FASHION

IN THIS SECTION 95 98 109 111 114 117 Lantern, I Got Rhythm Bag Yellow, ÂŁ488, at Wolfandbadger.com Photography by Angie Cropper

123 131 136

Interview: with international bridal designer Julie Vino Island Intrigue: A lookbook of Julie Vino’s Santorini collection Something New, Something Old Something Blue, Something Borrowed Lingerie: Sensual, delicate and flirtatious Find Your Perfect Dress: Feel and look beautiful Bridesmaids: Get your girls looking glamours Flower Girls: Designer Mischka Aoki radiates style with her flower girl collection Prim & Clover: Design your own dress

Fashion

INTERVIEW WITH

JULIE VINO Julie Vino is an exquisite bridal designer based in Tel Aviv, Israel. She first launched her own brand five years ago, creating flawless collections characterised by sleek silhouettes and a classic yet modern style.

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JULIE, THANK YOU FOR MY MAIN FOCUS TAKING SOME TIME OUT TO HAS ALWAYS BEEN TALK TO US. YOUR NEW 2016 WHAT DO YOU FIND IS THE BRIDAL, AND SANTORINI COLLECTION MOST CHALLENGING PART IS SIMPLY STUNNING. HOW OF YOUR JOB? ALWAYS WILL BE.” DID SANTORINI INSPIRE THE I love what I do, so even LATEST COLLECTION? if something is hard I still Santorini is such a romantic find it fun! I would say it destination. It is very noble, very pure and is sometimes a challenge discovering what white, and this was the basic inspiration exactly are the right fabrics and styles for behind the collection. each separate collection.

BRIDAL FASHION IS BECOMING MUCH MORE CLOSELY LINKED WITH HIGH FASHION.”

AND WHAT KIND OF FABRICS HAVE YOU USED? WITH MORE BRIDES THAN EVER CHOOSING A DESTINATION WEDDING, DO YOU TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION THINGS LIKE EXPOSURE TO VARYING CLIMATES? Yes, we definitely take weather into consideration. You will find that on a lot of the dresses there is a cape which you can take off or sleeves which are detachable, so if it’s warmer or colder you have some options. Regarding the fabrics themselves everything is made from lace, silk and chiffon, and all of the dresses feature hand-embroidery.

SO, WHAT ABOUT IF YOU WERE TO HAVE A DESTINATION WEDDING YOURSELF — WHERE WOULD BE YOUR IDEAL LOCATION? I would have to choose Cuba. It has an old-fashioned feel but is also exciting and a little bit sexy. These are elements I’m always inspired by and like to incorporate into my designs.

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ARE THERE ANY STYLES OR TRENDS YOU’VE NOTICED OVER THE PAST YEAR THAT ARE BECOMING MORE POPULAR WITH BRIDES? Bridal fashion is becoming much more closely linked with high fashion. I’ve noticed a big step away from strictly traditional gowns. Brides are starting to look for more modern dresses, perhaps with a bit of a lower neckline… basically, a much more fashionforward attitude to bridal.

SPEAKING OF FASHION-FORWARD, YOU ALSO HAVE A GORGEOUS SANTORINI EVENING COLLECTION. DO YOU PREFER DESIGNING BRIDAL OR EVENING GOWNS? My main focus has always been bridal, and always will be. That’s where I started out and that is what I love to do. Lots of people were asking me for dresses that were not just for weddings, so I began designing evening wear due to high demand. However, my main passion will always be bridal.

Fashion

I WOULD HAVE LOVED TO DESIGN A DRESS FOR KATE MIDDLETON — I LOVE HER!”

IF YOU COULD DESIGN A GOWN FOR ANY CELEBRITY WEDDING PAST OR PRESENT WHO WOULD BE YOUR CHOICE? There are a lot! Mariah Carey is getting married soon, so I would love to design her a dress. I would make her a really elegant gown and perhaps give her a bit of a new look. I would also have loved to design a wedding dress for Kate Middleton. She has a really great fashion sense — I love her!

AND FINALLY, DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR BRIDES SEARCHING FOR THEIR PERFECT WEDDING GOWN? It is essential that you find a dress to complement your specific figure, but the most important thing is not to feel like you are wearing a costume. If a bride puts on her gown and it feels like dressing up then she won’t feel comfortable; she won’t like it on the day or in the future. Your wedding dress has to feel like a part of yourself.

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ANSWERING OUR QUESTIONS, JULIE, IT WAS A PLEASURE TALKING TO YOU. WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE WHERE YOUR CAREER TAKES YOU IN THE FUTURE.

YOUR WEDDING DRESS CAN’T FEEL LIKE A COSTUME… IT HAS TO FEEL LIKE A PART OF YOURSELF.”

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ISLAND

INTRIGUE Julie Vino’s Santorini Bridal Collection is a gorgeous vision of intricate detailing and unquestionable passion, designed and made with bespoke tailoring and sculpting.

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Fashion TYPICALLY, SOMETHING NEW IS THE BRIDE’S DRESS. But if you’re borrowing a dress then jewellery, accessories or lingerie are good alternatives.

Basque £600 at myla.com

Aurora feather bangle in gold £162, at martefrisnes.com

Geometric Crystal embellished high heel sandal, POA, at renecaovilla.com

Tiara, POA at davidsbridal.co.uk ‘Show me the way’ triangle ring in rose gold, £130, chupi.com Edwardian diamond & amethyst heart pendant, £1650, antiquejewellerycompany.com

Vintage brooch, POA antiquejewellerygroup.co.uk

G N I H T E M O S W G NE N I H T E M O S D OL

Astoria belt, £145 at freyarose.com

Ashoka diamond Timo necklace, POA at boodles.com

Elodie ivory clutch, £45 at vintagestyler.com

Violet heels, £365 at freyarose.com

1950s All Over Lace, POA at elizabethavey.com

Vintage earrings, POA antiquejewellerygroup.co.uk

SOMETHING OLD REPRESENTS CONTINUITY AND LONGEVITY. Incorporate vintage accessories and jewellery into your look or tick off something borrowed too and wear a family heirloom! w w w. d w ha . co . u k

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Aisla blue, POA at amandawyatt.com

Fashion

Joi silk garter, £98 at weddinggarterco.com

We Love!

Subtly incorporate the colour by having your wedding date and initials sewn in blue stitching into your dress.

BLUE SYMBOLISES FIDELITY, PURITY AND LOVE. Add a modern touch with navy heels or a cornflour blue clutch bag. Alternatively, save your something blue for your hubby’s eyes only, with lacy lingerie or a blue threaded garter.

Celeste silver & pearl bridal hair comb, £69 at vintagestyler.com Vintage diamond bracelet, POA at boodles.com

Tamara lace bandeau bra, £32 and thong £14 at bouxavenue.com Ocean ring, POA at boodles.com Ocean, tanzanite cabochon, POA at boodles.com

G N I H T E M O S UE G N BL I H ED T E M W O O S RR BO Reiki hair pins, £95 at freyarose.com

Maribelle platform shoes in Horizon, £34,68 at davidsbridal.com

ACCESSORIES, A VEIL AND FAMILY HEIRLOOMS ARE GREAT THINGS TO BORROW ON YOUR BIG DAY. Your mother-in-law may feel honoured to lend you a brooch, whereas a traditional veil that has been in your family for generations will add a sentimental touch.

Lana orchid alice band, £15 at crownandglory.co.uk

Victorian gold heart locket, £295, at thelockettree.co.uk

Adela lace garter, £78 at weddinggarterco.com “Bride” satin kimono, £45 at bouxavenue.com

Elenor beaded cluch, £100 at dunelondon.com w w w. d w ha . co . u k

Champagne lace headpiece, £150, at hollyyoungboutique.com 111

By Julia Mcintosh

Dore Nossiter multistone gold & silver brooch, £2,950 at antiquejewellerycompany.com

Autograph slip, £50 at marksandspencer.com Marani white garter belt, £65, and garter, £19 at maisonlejaby.com

Elegance plunge bra, £34 and shorts, £14 at lascana.co.uk

Mia ivory cami, £375 and knicker, £190 both at oliviavonhalle.com

LINGERIE

Heritage Silk non padded balcony bra, £115; suspender, £110; and thong £60, all at myla.com

Romantic lace, elegant embroidery and seductive silks; this season’s lingerie combines traditional grace with modern luxe to make you utterly irresistible.

Xia Chemise Ivory (short), £238 at silentassembly.co.uk

Lucie lace triangle bra, £20 and Chloe thong, £10, both at bouxavenue.com

Nova, POA at moeva.com Di Lorenzo embroidered lace corset, £110, at lascana.co.uk Shadow lace night dress and thong, both POA at lingerie.myla.com

Magdalena bodice bra, £225; suspender belt, £145; and brazilian cut brief, £130, all at shop.bordelle.co.uk Amour bra in pearl, £74 and shorty, £45, both at simone-perele.com

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Ivory garter, £140 at oliviavonhalle.com

Fashion Gaby bra, £50.35 and knicker, £30.21 at maisonlejaby.com Xia Garter Ivory, £52 at silentassembly.co.uk

Rosie for Autograph silk and lace swing camisole, £35 and knicker, £12.50 at marksandspencer.com Passion bra, £73 and knicker, £35 at maisonlejaby.com

Lucille pleated babydoll and matching thong, £36 at bouxavenue.com

Clementina plunge bra, £30 and thong, £12 at bouxavenue.com

Xia bralette, £104 and cheeki, £76 at silentassembly.co.uk

Audrey ivory short silk robe, £550 at oliviavonhalle.com

Crystal bra, £69 and knicker, £45 at maisonlejaby.com

White elliptical babydoll £295 and babydoll knicker, £95 at myla.com

From ivory lace to delicate details, these sensual slips and supporting separates will ensure you feel beautiful and comfortable on your big day.

Bride satin shorts, £32 at bouxavenue.com

Bra, £75 and brief, £49 at simone-perele.com

Vita contour plunge bra, £49 and mini, £25 at silentassembly.co.uk Shadow Lace Nightdress, £125 at myla.com

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Fashion Anna Campbell

DRESS TO IMPRESS From full on flair to barely there, this season’s romantic bridal dresses are stunningly bold and effortlessly enchanting. Think floral appliques, statement silhouettes and fairy-tale feathers

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CHIFFON For layers of loveliness, these flowing dresses give the illusion of weight without all the fuss.

The sleek, streamlined shapes are perfect for both beach and city weddings!

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Fashion

LAZARO

ABED MAHFOUZ

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

ANGEL SANCHEZ

Style tip Keep accessories to a minimum with all of these dresses — they are the ultimate statement piece in themselves!

STATEMENT MARCO & MARIA

Leave the traditional ball gown behind and opt for a modern and sophisticated two piece, or transform your silhouette with a dramatic overskirt. All of these bold and daring dresses are sure to give you the wow factor! w w w. d w ha . co . u k

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LACE

GALIA LAHAV

The epitome of feminine elegance, chantilly lace is a timeless bridal material that creates an illusion of cascading grace. Add a touch of modernity to this classic look with a flowing twopiece or a structured jacket.

Style tip Don’t worry about straying too far from tradition — heavy fabric and strong silhouettes keep these dresses looking bridal!

YOLAN CRIS

BERTA BRIDAL

MARCO & MARIA

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

Style tip These styles demand bolder makeup; a bright or dark lip will complement the delicate lace perfectly!

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Fashion

La nouvelle belle graceloveslace.com.au Photographer: Louise Smit Creative Direction: Ashleigh Hipwood & Megan Ziems Dresses: Grace Loves Lace Models: Zoe Barnard, Maya Stepper & Merethe Hopeland Styling: Foxy Zingaro Location: Duex Belletes MUA: Ashlea Penfold & Emma Plant Hair: Melissa Smith

BRIDESMAIDS

Whatever the destination, whatever the theme, we’ve got a selection of beautiful bridesmaid’s dresses to ensure your besties look glam, glowing, and utterly gorgeous! w w w. d w ha . co . u k

Sun, sand and sea calls for light fabrics, flowing tulle and soft colours. What’s more, a beach wedding is the perfect excuse to wear a short dress. These pastel pieces will complement any beach wedding, and have bridesmaids feeling like a Grecian goddess!

Affairs,31072, POA at morilee.co.uk Dessy Collection 6739 in Rose, POA at dessy.com Ebony Rose Designs Helen in Salmon, POA at ebonyrosedesigns.com Two Birds Bridesmaid one shoulder flat back ballgown in seafoam, £275 at twobirdsbridesmaid.co.uk BHLDN Harper Dress, £206.61 at bhldn.com 1 24

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BEACH

Fashion

Brides planning a city destination wedding can worry less about the weather than beach brides since most urban weddings take place indoors. Whether a European getaway or a New York adventure, an urban wedding allows for intricate detailing and heavier materials. Stay sleek in the city with these sophisticated looks!

CITY

Alfred Sung D724P in Stripe, POA at dessy.com Angelina Faccenda 20477, POA at morilee.co.uk Amanda Wakeley Oleta Chartreuse Drape Back Dress, ÂŁ995 at amandawakeley.com Ronald Joyce : 29167 in Navy, POA at ronaldjoyce.com Mark Lesley 1479, ÂŁ315 at marklesley.com

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A garden wedding is not complete without pretty florals and soft shades. Peaches, greens and taupes blend in with surroundings, whilst extended hemlines and delicate chiffons are perfect for cool days and long nights!

GARDEN

Alfred Sung D724CP in Blush Bouquet, POA at dessy.com Social Bridesmaids 8166 in Celadon, POA at dessy.com Alvina Maids AV9426 in Petal, POA at jlmcouture.com Mark Lesley 1487, ÂŁ207 at marklesley.com True Bridesmaids M664 in Banana, POA at truebride.co.uk

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Fashion

A vineyard wedding packs a powerful punch — strong silhouettes and bright colours will make the girls look beautifully elegant and effortlessly classic, yet modern at the same time. Opt for sparkles and embellishments to really stand out.

VINEYARD

Sanyukta Shrestha Aurelia scarlet evening gown, POA at sanyuktashrestha.com Ebony Rose Designs Viola in Petro Blue, POA at ebonyrosedesigns.com Mark Lesley 1552, £225 at marklesley.com BHLDN Fleur Dress in Pewter, £175.10 at bhldn.com Affairs 31073, POA at morilee.co.uk

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You may be the belle of the ball but that doesn’t mean your bridal party can’t look like the ultimate snow princesses! Icy blues, sleek necklines and wintery shimmers will leave you feeling anything but cold inside.

SNOW

True Bridesmaids M678 in Silver, POA at truebride.co.uk Social Bridesmaids 8153 in Turquoise, POA at dessy.com Ronald Joyce 29155 in Aqua, POA at ronaldjoyce.com Dessy Collection 6743 in Stormy, POA at dessy.com Amanda Wakeley Sculpted Tailoring Deco Embroidery Dress, £1295 at amandawakeley.com

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Inspired

MISCHKA AOKI Mischka Aoki, the ‘Haute Couture’ for children, is a high-end Australian label known globally for its exclusivity and exceptional craftsmanship. Available in some of the world’s most prestigious department stores, and with a recently established office in Milan, Mischka Aoki has proven itself as an internationally acclaimed luxury brand.

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Exquisite embellishments, Swarovski crystals, embroidered French lace and specialized pleated tulle are just some of the opulent features from Mischka Aoiki’s Spring Summer 2016 Flower Girl collection. Bold and modern, yet inspired by the classic Sleeping Beauty fairytale, these enchanting pieces are fit for a princess.

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Inspired

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DESIGN YOUR OWN WEDDING DRESS

Bespoke, Beautiful, and Affordable Bridal – Prim & Clover announces launch London-based bridalwear company Prim & Clover are delighted to announce their launch. The innovative e-tail website gives brides the opportunity to design their own dress, and have it custom-fitted to their exact measurements, here in the UK, without costing the earth.

of her own home, before making a decision and having a key role in the building and creation of her final design, guided by friendly and on-hand UK-based designers and seamstresses, who personally use their extensive experience and expertise to deliver every step of the way. The result is a stunning, bespoke-made, high quality dress or two-piece, delivDesigning a unique and personal wedding dress is key to ered on time and in stunning packaging, ready for the many a bride’s enjoyment of her big day, but the costs big day. The bride is kept updated as to the status of of couture can be prohibitive, and it is here where the the dress creation throughout the process, and video founders of Prim & Clover saw a gap in the market. chats are available throughout, if she needs a bit of extra reassurance.

Set apart from other wedding dress e-commerce platforms, www.primandclover.com allows the First introduced at the National Wedding Show in bride-to-be to try out different styles in the comfort Olympia at the end of last month, the founders were

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blown away by how well the company was received by visitors: “We met so many people who were becoming frustrated at not being able to find their ideal dress, despite trawling through sometimes hundreds of designers’ collections,” said Stacia Bedford, Co-founder and Managing Director. “They found the concept of Prim & Clover to be a refreshing addition to the wedding market, and couldn’t believe how we managed to keep our prices so low for such a stunning end result.”

Making the wedding dress shopping experience easy, fun and personal through an e-commerce platform is a tall order, but the founders feel it’s essential. “Boutiques take your order and you don’t hear anything from them for six to nine months,” continues Co-founder and Delivery Director, Luciana Riquet. “The wedding dress is arguably the most important garment a lady will ever wear, on the most important day of her life.

Allowing her to personalise it herself adds a new dimension, and we are confident we have overcome the pitfalls of e-commerce by adding our own unique and personalised twist to online ordering.”

For more details, visit primandclover.com

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BEAUTY

IN THIS SECTION OPI New Orleans Collection, at opi.com Photography by Angie Cropper

141 Claire Salter: Three make-up looks for a gorgeous wedding day 149 Get your fantasy figure: with Niko Algeri 153 Interview: With hair stylist Kerry

Beauty

CLAIRE SALTER

Claire Salter is a professional, freelance bridal make-up artist and hair stylist, based in the East Midlands, UK. With 14 years of experience working nationally and internationally in make-up and hair styling for catwalk, fashion shoots, television and the bridal industry, Claire is extremely experienced and adaptable. She has always been involved in the creative industries and wanted to be an artist from a very early age.

Claire’s favourite things about her job are the wonderful people she gets to meet and the exciting locations and venues she visits. She also loves seeing the photos afterwards; whether it be in print in a magazine, on the TV, online, or in the a couple’s official wedding photographs, she loves knowing that she has been involved in the preparations for someone’s big and beautiful day.

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BEAUTY TIPS 3

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GYPSY This make-up look is all about shades and tones that bring together the warmness of the summer evening sunshine and the shades of floral headdresses. Use products with a warm tone and light reflective shimmer to catch the sunlight.

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1. MAC STUDIO MOISTURE CREAM, to hydrate the skin. £24.50, maccosmetics.co.uk 2. BOBBI BROWN BB CREAM, to perfect skin tone. £29.50, bobbibrown.co.uk 3. MAC PREP PRIME MOISTURE INFUSION, to prime. £29.50, maccosmetics.co.uk 4. YSL TOUCHE ÉCLAT, to hide dark shadows. £32.50, houseoffraser.co.uk 5. MAC PREP PRIME TRANSPARENT FINISHING POWDER, to set your base. £20.50, maccosmetics.co.uk 6. BOBBI BROWN POT ROUGE, to enhance your dewy look. £19.50, bobbibrown.co.uk 7. URBAN DECAY PRIMER POTIONS — EDEN, for a great shimmer base. £16, urbandecay.co.uk 8. ELIZABETH ARDEN EYESHADOW — TEMPTING TAUPE, £23, elizabetharden.co.uk 9. MAC SHEEN SUPREME LIPSTICK — SUPREMELY CONFIDENT £17.50, maccosmetics.co.uk 10. MAC STUDIO MOISTURE FIX PLUS, to keep your hard work in place. £24.50, maccosmetics.co.uk

Beauty

Bridal Gowns — Diane Harbridge Styling — Lucy Hallard at Boss Model Management Hair & Make Up — Claire Salter Hand & Foot Jewellery — Arianna Tiaras Feathers and Ribbons — Abakhan Model — Amy Gee at Boss Model Management Photography — Phil Drinkwater Assistant Photographer — Richard Hardwick w w w. d w ha . co . u k

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BEAUTY TIPS

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BERRY 9

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This look is all about creating a dewy appearance for the skin, combined with a beautiful berry lip.

The deep colours are perfect for rustic, Nordic, winter or glamorous Hollywood weddings.

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1. MAC FAST RESPONSE EYE CREAM, a moisturising base with an iridescent glow. £22, maccosmetics.co.uk 2. CLARINS INSTANT LIGHT COMFORT LIP OIL, £19, houseoffraser.co.uk 3. BOBBI BROWN MOISTURE RICH FOUNDATION, £21.50, bobbibrown.co.uk 4. TOM FORD BRONZING POWDER — GOLD DUST, for a warm glow. £48, houseoffraser.co.uk 5.URBAN DECAY PRIMER POTION —SIN, £16, urbandecay.co.uk 6. BOBBI BROWN EYESHADOW — IVORY, to create soft definition. £17.50, bobbibrown.co.uk 7. MAC FASCINATING EYE LINER, £14, maccosmetics.co.uk 8. ELIZABETH ARDEN GRAND ENTRANCE MASCARA, work into your lashes and layer. £22, elizabetharden.co.uk 9. LAURA MERCIER LIP COLOUR, £22, houseoffraser.co.uk 10. BOBBI BROWN LUXE LIP COLOUR — PARISIAN RED, £19.50, bobbibrown.co.uk

Beauty

Photography — Rebekah J.Murray Styling, Concept and Design — Team Rock My Wedding Assistant Stylist — Lauren at Fairly Light Stationery and Wallpaper Backdrop Designed and made — Team Rock My Wedding Gown — From a selection at Alan Hannah and Charlotte Balbier Hair And Make-up — Claire Salter Florist — Sarah at Mrs Umbels Model — Abigail Poulton w w w. d w ha . co . u k

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BOHEMIAN This bridal look is very relaxed, free-spirited and bohemian — ideal for a garden, beach or festivalstyle wedding. Use natural tones to enhance your facial features for a clean, perfect look.

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1. MAC STROBE CREAM, create an iridescent look to the skin. £24.50, maccosmetics.co.uk 2. DIOR FOREVER FOUNDATION, perfect for all over, even coverage and longevity. £33, houseoffraser.co.uk 3. MAC STUDIO CONCEAL & CORRECT PALETTE, £35, maccosmetics.co.uk 4. MAC EYE SHADOW PIGMENT — VANILLA, £16, maccosmetics.co.uk 5. TOM FORD LOVE LUST CHEEK COLOUR, £48, houseoffraser.co.uk 6. GIORGIO ARMANI MASCARA, define your lashes. £27, houseoffraser.co.uk 7. BOBBI BROWN SHIMMER BRICK COMPACT BRONZER, £33, bobbibrown.co.uk 8. BOBBI BROWN EYESHADOW —TAUPE, £17.50, bobbibrown.co.uk 9. BOBBI BROWN EYEBROW BRUSH, £22.50, bobbibrown.co.uk 10. MAC LIPSTICK — SHY GIRL, use to complete this fresh face look. £15.50, maccosmetics.co.uk 11. MAC MINERALIZE CHARGED WATER REVITALIZING ENERGY, keeps skin hydrated throughout the day. £17.50, maccosmetics.co.uk

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Bridal Gown — Diane Harbridge Styling — Lucy Hallard at Boss Model Management Hair & Make Up —Claire Salter Model — Amy Gee at Boss Model Management Photography — Phil Drinkwater Assistant Photographer — Richard Hardwick

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GET YOUR

FANTASY FIGURE

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WITH NIKO ALGIERI — FITNESS ADVISOR

Personal trainer Niko Algieri is here to help kick-start your perfect bridal body!

These five sets of exercises focus on toning and strengthening up the figure you already have to ensure you look great, feel confident and get that healthy glow before the big day.

SIDE PLANK ON ELBOW: CORE, ARMS, SHOULDERS

• Make sure you stack the shoulders • Maintain the line of the foot, hip and shoulder • Eyes looking forward (smile optional) • Lift leg to advance Do 3 sets of holding for 30s on each side

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ADVANCED STRAIGHT ARM SIDE PLANK: CORE, ARMS, SHOULDER

• Tougher as it’s a longer lever • Shoulder over the top of the arm • Lift leg to advance Do 3 sets of holding for 30s on each side

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GLUTE BRIDGE: QUADS, GLUTES, CORE, HAMSTRINGS • Lay flat on the floor with arms by your side • Make sure feet are flat and knees are at 90 degrees • Lift and extend through the hips so that the shoulder, hip and knee are in line • Squeeze hard through the glutes and bum • Return to floor Do 3 sets of 15 reps with 45s rest

BASIC SQUAT: QUADS GLUTES, CORE AND FAT BURNING

• Stand with feet shoulder width apart and feet slightly out-turned (this is key for glute activation) • Start with arms by your side • Send the hips backwards, spread the knees wider than your feet and sit with your hip crease below the knee (also key). Raise the arms to shoulder level • Return to standing and lower the arms Do 3 sets of 15 reps with 45s rest

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ADVANCED SINGLE LEG GLUTE BRIDGE: QUADS, GLUTES, CORE, HAMSTRINGS

JUMPING SQUAT: QUADS, GLUTES, CORE AND FAT BURNING

• Same technique as squat but on the way up power out of the squat • and jump off the floor • When you land go immediately into the next squat Do 3 sets of 15 reps with 45s rest 150

• Maintain hip extension (lifted) • Lift one leg vertically • Lower that same leg level with the grounded leg and lift back up Do 3 sets of 15 reps with 45s rest

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Beauty

V-SIT CRUNCH: CORE AND FAT BURNING

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• Straight arms, straight legs, neutral spine • Throw your arms forward • Let the body follow the arms upwards and bring the knees towards your chest, tap ankles and return to start position evenly Do 3 sets of 15 reps with 45s rest

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Strength training doesn’t bulk you up ladies, it only makes you lean and sexy!

Building muscle is also the very best way you can speed up your metabolism, so you will be burning way more fat than usual throughout the day.

V-SIT FROG CRUNCH: CORE AND FAT BURNING

• The same movement but with a slight difference • When going up into the v-sit position, keep the heels together and spread the knees • Touch the feet through the knees then return to the ground Do 3 sets of 15 reps with 45s rest

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Inspired

INTERVIEW WITH

KERRY HAIR GURU Kerry is an international hair stylist based in Trinidad and Tobago.

MY SALON IS MY ENERGY CENTRE; IF YOU TAKE THAT AWAY I AM NOTHING.” HI KERRY, THANKS FOR JOINING US! TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOU AND YOUR SALON. HOW DID YOU GET STARTED? I actually started out working in graphics, then I went into engineering administration. I used to do hair on the side just as a hobby and then eventually my client base grew. It was really my clients who encouraged me to start my own salon.

I got a space with two stations and a sink, and after about a year it went up to six stations and two sinks, and then five years on I had fourteen stations and it keeps on growing. I didn’t ever think it would have turned out this way because I never had money or success in mind at all — I was just doing it because I liked it.

BUT YOU MUST BE HAPPY NOW THAT YOU HAVE ACHIEVED INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS? Sure, but it’s still just a by-product of what I love to do. My salon is my energy centre, so if you take that away I’m nothing. If you take me away from my salon and a blowdryer I will die!

WHAT IS IT THAT INSPIRES YOU IN TERMS OF STYLING? I get inspiration all the time from everywhere, but movies especially. I loved the movie Anna Karenina with

Keira Knightley. She had some fantastic hairstyles, and it inspired me to do an entire shoot. I always tell my staff, hairdressing is like being an artist — we are able to manipulate colour, style and texture through vision. Before I even start the process I need to picture the right colour, cut and the style. You need to have the vision in your mind before you put paint on the canvas!

YOU’RE BASED IN T R I NI DA D A ND TOBAGO. A LOT OF OUR READERS ARE THINKING OF GETTING MARRIED ABROAD, SO WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ARE SOME BASIC HAIR PRINCIPLES FOR BRIDES TO REMEMBER IN HOT CLIMATES? T r e a t m e n t s .

Conditioning. Invest in good products.

Everybody’s biggest problem in the heat is frizz, right? But even for the most unmanageable types, if the hair is properly hydrated and conditioned then it will look good. I always tell people: ‘treat your hair as you would your skin.’ Would you wash your skin with soap and then not moisturise?

For some reason we don’t think about hair in the same way. We colour it, we shampoo it, we straighten it, we do everything harmful to it and yet the last thing that we prioritise is hydration and repair. It’s the most important thing.

HOW SHOULD YOU DECIDE WHICH PRODUCTS ARE THE ONES TO GO FOR? You should establish a relationship with your stylist; they will be able to monitor your progress and concerns. Everyone is so concerned with the effects of sulfates, parabens and keratin, but these ingredients are not necessarily harmful. It’s all about being educated on the correct use of the products, and in turn educating your client.

A sulfate shampoo may be used on hair that requires deep cleansing, and non-sulfate for fine, colour or keratin treated hair. As for keratin, it’s actually what your hair is made from; however some brands combine Keratin Treatments with formaldehyde and other preservatives that may be harmful or carcinogenic.

Your stylist should listen, analyse and recommend the appropriate treatments and a home regime that targets your specific needs.

I invest in my education and growth as a stylist and an entrepreneur because I want the best for my business and my clients.

I believe that there is something new to learn each day. Knowledge is power and we should use this to educate and correct our clients against some of the misleading content on social media and advertising.

This will not only be appreciated but will build the clients confidence in you.

HAIRDRESSING IS LIKE BEING AN ARTIST.”

THANKS VERY MUCH KERRY, WE’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING LOTS MORE OF YOUR WORK IN THE FUTURE!

MY ADVICE? TREAT YOUR HAIR AS YOU WOULD YOUR SKIN.” w w w. d w ha . co . u k

Note from Kerry:

Focus on yourself and not what everyone else is doing; be the best version of you because that’s irreplacable.

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FOR HIM

Discover the latest trends in mens tantalising perfumes translating power, poise and masculine refinement to any modern day Prince Charming.

Complete your look This seasons suave and sophisticated fragrance ‘Man in Red’ by Ferrari. Made with shades of fruit, amber and bergamot, its base is warm and masculine creating a composition bursting with dynamic intensity! both at harrods.com

IN THIS SECTION

NEW skinChemists Wrinkle Killer Duo Moisturiser Pour Homme (£72.95) Photography by Angie Cropper

157 Trend Serenity: Hues of blue to keep cool 158 Trend Fiesta: Red hot for summer 159 Page boy: Perfect pieces for the little ones 160 Mens Accessories: On-trend in style 161 Men-U skin review: Treat your skin 162 Waldorf Review

GO-TO ACCESSORIES Bring your look to life with a touch of cool blue. These on-trend accessories will complete any outfit!

For Him

TREND SERENITY

Blue is a firm favourite amongst men, but it’s all about how you wear it: pair different shades of blue together and create a multi-textured look.

Chevron-knit cotton top, £295, matchesfashion.com

River island mens SS16

Turned up hat, £121, farfetch.com

E. Tautz Sports Shirt, £245 at etautz.com

Round frame sunglasses, £248, farfetch.com

Van-lt-vintage, £200, at acnestudio.com

Qasa bi-colour backpack, £230, matchesfashion.com

Blue Garment Dyed Polo, £140, zegna.com

Step out in style Tod’s gommino loafers , £310, flannels.com

Loafers ; an eternal winner for walking the aisle and jumping from guest to guest at the reception. Stylish and comfortable, they add flair to a plain suit or complement a patterned piece! w w w. d w ha . co . u k

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TREND FIESTA

This striking colour has become every man’s wardrobe staple. Pair with camel or khaki for a warm, dressed-down vibe!

GO-TO ACCESSORIES They may be small but these bright accessories are sure to add a bold statement to your outfit.

Gucci sweater £290, matchesfashion.com

River island menswear SS16

Club Monaco Pocket Square £43.58 at clubmonaco.com

Shell flat cap £190, mrporter.com

Balenciaga cardholder £105, matchesfashion.com

T-shirt £110, matchesfashion.com

Swim shorts £55, mrporter.com Harrington Jacket £625, mrporter.com

Thigh-catching style!

Short shorts are back in fashion for men, and what better excuse to wear them than when honeymooning... in the sun of course.

What’s more, this bright colour will perfectly complement your tan.

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Chronometer watch £3,995, mrporter.com

For Him

European cherry bow tie, Willow & Warson Collaboration, £50 at elfielondon.com

Howick junior boys tuxedo jacket, £46 at houseoffraser.co.uk

Timberland kids white oxford shirt, £29 at alexandalexa.com Elasticated woven belt, £9 at johnlewis.com

Flat cap, £10 at monsoon.co.uk

Hugo Boss wilson slim fit waistcoat, £149 at houseoffraser.co.uk

Leather penny loafers, £35.99 at zara.com

PA G E BOY

Red tie, £8 at johnlewis.com

Keep the little men in your bridal party looking topto-toe smart in our perfect page boy picks!

Heirloom collection boys’ oxford jacket, £43 at johnlewis.com

Satin bow tie, £24.95 at harrods.com

Heirloom collection boys’ oxford shorts, £20 at johnlewis.com

Young Soles tan brogues, £68 at alexandalexa.com

Timberland slim fit trousers, £39 at houseoffraser.co.uk

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MEN’S ACCESSORIES Marks and Spencer menswear

Zenith El Primero Chronomaster 1969 Rose Gold & Alligator watch, £14,700, mrporter.com

Rolex, £POA, thewatchgallery.com

Foulard silk tie, £125, drakes.com Hugo Boss black ceramic black dial bracelet watch, £299, ernestjones.com

Givenchy gold plated adjustable watch, £670, harveynichols.com

Bremont ALT1-classic GN/ automatic chronograph watch, £4,395, mrporter.com

Globe cufflinks, £295, harveynichols.com Canali woven silk tie, £90, mrporter.com

Emporio Armani cufflinks, £89, ernestjones.com

Miansai rose gold cufflinks, £120, harveynichols.com Richard James floral pocket square, £55, mrporter.com

Howlite cufflinks, £265, mrporter.com Werkstatt ring, £227, farfetch.com 1 70

Parapluie silk pocket square, £55, drakes.com Rectangle cufflinks, £55, ernestjones.com Ma y / J u n e

Thom Browne pocket square, £70, mrporter.com

BEAUTY

For Him

Skin care Review

men-ü is a revolutionary line of high performance, ultra concentrated products that use a high percentage of the finest ingredients.

Our reviewers, Tony and Parry, tried the products for a week. Here’s what they found!

Clean

FIRST:

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The Healthy Facial Wash left my skin feeling tingly and invigorated. The tea tree and witch-hazel aroma also added to this feeling of cleanliness. Unlike some other facial washes it did not dry out my skin too much either.

Tony’s Review

3

Serum

SECOND:

2

I expected my face to feel quite sticky after using the Matte ‘Skin Refresh’ Gel but I was pleasantly surprised as it was not sticky at all and dried very quickly.

As I have quite dry skin I used the Facial Moisturiser Lift as well, but if you have combination or oily skin, then the gel may be moisture enough.

Moisturise

FINISH:

The first time I used the Facial Moisturiser Lift, I didn’t think the instructed 1-1.5 pumps would be enough and unfortunately used more which left my skin feeling quite greasy. However the second time I used it, I stuck to the instructions and it was not greasy at all and left my skin feeling very soft and supple. All in all, using the three products together was a real work out for my face and left me feeling clean and revitalised.

Shave

EXTRA: I really liked the tea tree scent and the texture of the Shave Crème; it went on my skin smoothly and created a luxurious lather without being too thick. After shaving, my skin felt moisturised, soft and refreshed. It also goes a long way — you don’t need to apply very much at once to get thorough coverage.

Parry’s Review

I liked the creamy texture of the Liquifflex gel. It’s not heavy and greasy like some hair gels. It dispersed evenly through my hair without leaving it looking wet or too stiff, which I liked, plus the hold lasted all day. After using the gel, I noticed that my hands weren’t as sticky as they usually are, which was a bonus!

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WALDORF

TASTE OF THE TWENTIES

H I LT O N H O T E L

With an exquisite 1920s aesthetic, coupled with the best in twenty first century luxury, the Waldorf Hilton Hotel offers an extravagance that harks back to a lost age of decadence. brass metal work, silver-leaf, mirrors, chaise longues, ceramic monochrome bathrooms and a light and frivolous pastel colour scheme. However, of all these the Astor Suite is the real crowning jewel. Named after the hotel’s benefactor, Lord William Astor, this suite will truly transport you to another time with its antique décor, including a gramophone, a 1920s-style telephone and a vintage tea set. And the cherry on the cake?

The deliciously decadent ‘press for champagne’ button!

GUEST ROOMS ARE A VISION “ OF VINTAGE STYLING WITH A CONTEMPORARY TWIST. ”

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However, it’s not only the guest rooms that have received the makeover treatment.

The Homage Restaurant has been lovingly updated along with The Good Godfrey Bar & Lounge, where gorgeous antique mirrors, soft lighting and a bar with illuminated marble, chrome and granite provides the perfect ambience for socialising in style. The bar is named after the handsome and charismatic Howard Godfrey, leader of the hotel’s house band in the 1920s, who helped turn the hotel into the thriving social hub that it became.

he Waldorf Hilton Hotel was a thriving hub for young socialites in the 1920s, and has been a landmark of London’s glittering theatre district ever since. Nearly a century later, the hotel’s striking exterior still towers elegantly over The pièce de résistance is the grand the tree-lined thoroughfare of Aldwych. ballroom Palm Court, where regular dances Inside, however, a £13.5 million renovation and events keep the spirit of Howard has taken place. Staying true to Godfrey alive. The Edwardian architecture the opulent style, has been restored to all its former illustrious history glory with authentic lanterns, PALM COURT columns and intricate Art Deco and unique story of this glorious grade IS THE PERFECT balustrades. Looking at the II listed building, SETTING FOR A historic black clock that hangs we are happy to say over the opulent stage, you can that the renovation SHOW-STOPPING almost see Gatsby wandering is a roaring success. down the steps. Indeed, Palm WEDDING. Court is the perfect setting in Acclaimed interior designers at Fox which to host a show-stopping wedding.

Linton have transformed each guest This lavish ballroom is sure to elevate any room into a vision of vintage styling Gatsby or 1920s themes to euphoric heights, with a contemporary twist, using leaving you with unforgettable memories sumptuous details like antique (waldorfhilton.co.uk).

“

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DESTINATIONS

IN THIS SECTION 165 172 182 187 194 199 207 212 216 221

New York: City that never sleeps Costa Rica: Welcome to Costa Rica Indian Ocean: Honeymoon Hideaway United Arab Emirates : Arabian nights Spain: Vibrant Valencia Italy: Italian amour South Africa: Bona Dea private estate Turks and Caicos: Romance on point Grenada: Spice of life Alps: Alpine be mine

Destinations

NEW YORK, NEW YORK

Discover the best places to marry and honeymoon in the city that never sleeps!

Words by Laura Bell w w w. d w ha . co . u k

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New York: a heady rush of dazzling lights, vibrant people and jaw-dropping architecture. Stage your very own love story on the tree-lined boulevard of Fifth Avenue; marvel at the impressive Manhattan skyline whilst sipping artisan cocktails amidst hip city-dwellers at the trendiest bars; or immerse yourself in a world of imagination on Broadway. Whether you’re a culture-loving couple wanting to exhaust the city’s art galleries and museums or an ultra-stylish duo searching for the latest designer trends in Barneys, New York’s plethora of activities and must-see landmarks will challenge even the most ardent sightseers!

THE PERFECT STAGE

TOP TIP! Avoid stopping in the middle of crowded streets to gawk at skyscrapers whilst navigating a map and wielding your SLR camera. Nothing screams ‘tourist!’ more to opportunistic pickpockets.

For the ultimate romantic experience of New York, why not marry in the heart of the iconic and beautifully manicured Central Park? With many locations to choose from within the park’s 843 acres of land, you will have no problem finding the perfect setting to stage your big day.

Marry on a bright Spring afternoon, hidden in the luscious green foliage of Shakespeare Garden (right); say ‘I do’ upon ivy-clad Gapstow Bridge against the backdrop of verdant green trees; or wed atop Cherry Hill in the centre of the park beneath the idyllic cherry blossom trees. Have the stress of responsibility waved away by the knowledgeable wedding planners at A Central Park Wedding, who will organise all of the permits and legal documents required for the ceremony to go ahead. Their specially tailored wedding packages offer couples a team of experienced photographers, musicians and bridal stylists to help ease the strain of organising a wedding, so all you have to do is enjoy your day! (acentralparkwedding.com) 166

Photo credit: Fotovolido

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Destinations

REFINED COMFORT For the ultimate lavish wedding with the highest quality of service, the Four Seasons New York has everything you need to ensure that your wedding and honeymoon experience is flawless from start to finish. With a team of dedicated and knowledgeable planners on hand to assist at every stage, you can rest assured that your wedding journey will be seamlessly smooth from ‘I do’ to honeymoon. What’s more, the hotel’s absolutely central location — right around the corner from Central Park — means you are on the doorstep of one of the world’s most exciting cities.

After the excitement of the big day, you can relax in the comfort of your 5-star lodgings. Boasting magnificent views, the hotel’s Royal Suite is the epitome of refined comfort. With its chic, contemporary décor and spacious design, you’ll feel utterly at home in your private apartment.

Whether you want to immerse yourselves in the splendid serenity of each other’s company, or explore the vibrant world of entertainment outside your door, the Four Seasons New York is the place to be (fourseasons.com/newyork).

ICONIC SKYLINE

SKY HIGH Nothing says Manhattan like the stylish Midtown Loft & Terrace. Have an intimate wedding on the building’s rooftop, with the iconic Manhattan skyline as the backdrop to your perfect ceremony. Encircled by a carved white stone railing and surfaced with deep mahogany wood, this terrace oozes classic elegance. What’s more, with fantastic 360˚ views of the city, including the impressive Empire State Building, you’ll literally be on cloud nine during your show-stopping wedding in the sky. After the ceremony, move to the stylish and chic Midtown Loft, where the celebrations can continue at your elegantly decorated reception. Accommodating up to 300 people for cocktails or 180 seated with a dancefloor, the ultimate wedding venue of your dreams awaits in NYC (midtownloft.net).

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WHERE TO EAT? Of course, no trip to New York would be complete without a taste of its culinary creations and fabulous fine-dining experiences. Ardent foodies will know that New York is renowned for its range of spectacular and theatrical dining options on offer. But with so much choice, where do you even start?

SOPHISTICATED SPEAKEASY No website, no phone number, and barely an entrance — Attaboy exudes exclusive nostalgia. There’s something appealing about the no-frills ‘knock and buzz’ system: like you’re sharing an undiscovered secret with the city. Watching the master cocktail makers work their suave magic is part of the experience at this intimate bar. Head to 134 Eldridge Street and look for the sign ‘AB’.

For the very best in fine dining, head to 3-starred Michelin restaurant Eleven Madison Park (elevenmadisonpark.com).

With its wealth of accolades and praise from The New York Times and Forbes Travel Guide, this exquisite restaurant offers a seasonal tasting menu of 10-15 courses of gastronomical glory. At $295 per person, this extravagant menu offers the chance to experience some of the most impressive and progressive feats of New York’s culinary scene.

You cannot leave the Big Apple without trying the city’s iconic dish: pizza. Many restaurants claim to have the best recipe for the tastiest sauce and crispiest crust, but our favourite no-frills pizzeria lies in Brooklyn, where it has been serving pizza to its loyal fans for 50 years. Di Fara’s pizzas have been named number one for 8 years running by reliable Zagat, however they don’t come cheap; a large pizza will cost you around $30, but you get what you pay for!

NEW YORK BAGELS

TOP TIP! New Yorkers are two things: super stylish and always in a rush. Make sure you go with the flow and follow the crowds when crossing roads. Even on one-way streets, be sure to look both ways in case of sneaky cyclists or motorbikes!

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Bagels are a staple of New York breakfasts and the battle for the title of ‘Best Bagel’ has been fraught for a long time! For a taste of the best of what the city has to offer, head to Absolute Bagels. It may not look like much on the outside, but they do by far the best bagel in the city! Think a dense and chewy middle encased in a firm and crusty outer layer filled with heapings of cream cheese — the perfect combination of textures and flavours (absolutebagels.com).

For more bang for your buck, head to Ess-abagel, where the bagels are bigger than most and come with a variety of fillings from as little as $1.25 (ess-a-bagel.com).

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Destinations

MUST-SEE! One must-see stop on your NYC itinerary is the Brooklyn Bridge. It is an impressive testament to America’s architectural innovation, and was the longest suspension bridge in the world when it was first built!

PREMIER TREATMENT Nestled in the fashionable heart of the Upper East Side, The Surrey Hotel is the ultimate hideaway for luxury-loving couples. Popular with celebrity couples and the likes of JFK and Bette Davis in their time, this intimate hotel offers an exceptionally personalised service and all the comforts you could expect of a 5-star hotel. With an aesthetic of contemporary modernity melded with classic design, the hotel is reminiscent of the sleek personality of an art collector’s home.

The grand façade of a pale-stoned doorway held up by characterful black beams oozes elegance and radiates with the cosy warm light of the lobby within.

After a wonderful day experiencing the best of what the city has to offer in terms of shopping, food and art, relax and rejuvenate at the hotel’s worldclass Cornelia Spa — noted as one of the top spas in the city. With a core focus on mindfulness and healing, a team of knowledgeable and experienced therapists are on-hand to create a tailormade treatment to detoxify and enliven your body. With two private couple’s spa suites, you can choose from a hot stone or aromatherapy massage, and get lost in a sanctuary of relaxation as your mind and body are soothed to tranquillity.

For a honeymoon to write home about, a stay at Manhattan’s premier Central Park hotel will not disappoint (thesurrey.com). w w w. d w ha . co . u k

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CONTEMPORARY EXTRAVAGANCE With its contemporary minimalist décor, the unabashedly extravagant Conrad New York is an upscale retreat in the heart of Lower Manhattan and the perfect host to your city-break honeymoon. Take in the sweeping views of the amazing Hudson River from your River View Suite; recline in refined luxury in the absolute comfort of your king-sized bed; and enjoy fizzing champagne at the hotel’s rooftop bar under the watchful eye of the Statue of Liberty. And while you’re there, you can taste culinary creations like no other at one of the hotel’s two award-winning restaurants, where fine-dining meets playful imagination to produce tantalising treats. Boasting a menu of Mediterranean flavours infused with New York style, the Atrio Restaurant will provide you with a sophisticated soirée to finish off your day (conradnewyork.com).

WHAT TO PACK? DID YOU KNOW? The Empire State Building is 381m tall. At such a height, static electricity gathers, which means that in the right weather conditions, couples can experience a slight electric shock when their lips touch for a kiss!

Whilst New York is a great place to people watch with its colourful characters and city-slickers, when using the subway, it’s important to follow the unwritten subway etiquette. Making eye contact is a bad idea; most people read a book, stare at the adverts or listen to music whilst looking at the ground. If the temptation to look is too much, then at least take shaded sunglasses for coveted snooping! Check out our sunglasses page for more inspiration.

As you’ll be on your feet all day exploring the city, it’s best to pack comfortable shoes. However, bear in mind that most upscale restaurants will turn you away if you’re dressed in slacks and trainers. Be sure to pack your fashionable evening wear to avoid any embarrassment — as if you needed an excuse!

Holmes Leather Medium Holdall, £189 at johnlewis.com Calvi sunglasses, £255 at shop.prismlondon.com

Nike Air Max Thea Premium, £95 at store.nike.com 1 70

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WELCOME TO

COSTA RICA

Rugged rainforests, wondrous wildlife and adventurous activities‌ for the ultimate tropical escape, venture to the scintillating paradise of Costa Rica.

Words by Laura Bell 166

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Destinations

TRAVELLER'S TIP!

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ridging the gap between the Caribbean and the Pacific in the heart of captivating Central America, lies Costa Rica. The epitome of an exotic retreat with ecotourism at its heart, this small country is awash with palm-lined beaches, dazzling shores and bountiful biodiversity. National parks and stunning coastlines abound, giving Costa Rica its allure as a premier holiday destination. When you combine two oceans, a volcanic island and some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the world, the result is an indescribable oasis of unspoiled paradise — perfect for the eco-conscious, adventure-loving couple.

For active honeymooners in search of an authentic experience and not just a luxury hotel on the beach, Costa Rica offers a rich diversity of mesmerising wildlife, jungle terrain and unspoiled natural beauty. With a geographical diversity to rival some continents, it’s worth spending a few days in different places across the country to experience the wealth of natural landscapes Costa Rica has to offer. The central highlands are rich with lush jungle and rugged volcanoes, whilst the north western pacific region of Guanacaste features cactus-studded hills and rare dry jungle plains. The eastern Caribbean side oozes an atmosphere of relaxed respite with its tropical rainforest climate, whereas the deserted southern Osa Peninsula offers the ultimate escape for privacy-seeking honeymooners.

VOLCANIC VIBRANCY

In the central highlands of Costa Rica, around 130km north of capital city San José, lies La Fortuna: a region home to abundant rainforests, cascading waterfalls and captivating wildlife, all overlooked by the ominous yet impressive Arenal Volcano.

Reaching the soaring height of 5,357 feet, this fascinating natural summit has been regularly active since its most severe eruption ever recorded, in 1968.

Fly into capital San José; it’s by no means the most beautiful part of the country but it is a good central point to start your travels. What’s more, the city is a cultural hub filled with a diversity of people, restaurants, museums and bars.

walking boots and get up close and personal with one of the most active volcanoes in the western hemisphere, as well as being in the company of swinging monkeys, sleepy sloths and chatty parrots nesting in nearby towering trees. After a vigorous hike, soak your tired muscles in the warm waters of the Baldi Hot Springs, naturally heated by the bubbling volcano itself. With over 30 baths to choose from, you can alternate between hot and cool pools so that your body is left feeling both rejuvenated and stimulated. With stunning views of the Arenal Volcano, you can unwind in the most pristine environment surrounded by uncompromising natural beauty.

For adventure-seeking couples not afraid of getting wet, canyoning through rainforests and rappelling down the waterfalls surrounding La Fortuna is an exhilarating experience not to be missed. Or, if you’re ready to be thrilled, try river rafting along either the Balsa River or El Rio Toro (The Bull River). The Balsa River enjoys mild currents and white water rafting here is fun but not dangerous, whilst the Bull River is characterised by strong waves and technical rapids better suited to experienced adrenaline-seekers. Visit puretrekcanyoning.com to organise a tour with environmentally conscious, professional and bilingual guides.

“ UNWIND IN THE

MOST PRISTINE ENVIRONMENT, SURROUNDED BY UNCOMPROMISING NATURAL BEAUTY. ”

Active couples can get their fitness fix by trekking the verdant forested interior of the Arenal Volcano National Park. Don your

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GLAMOUROUS GUANACASTE

The Guanacaste province stretches from the country’s northern border with Nicaragua to the Bongo River in the western Nicoya Peninsula. With a wealth of natural landscapes varying from dry forests, lowland mountains and endless coastline, there’s no wonder that Guanacaste has become a favourite amongst lavish couples and celebrities looking for an exotic getaway. Popular for watersports, diving and surfing, this province is renowned for its shimmering beaches, calm waters and 5-star hotels. For luxury-loving couples who want a slice of paradise as well as world-class service and sumptuous hotels, this is the place to be.

With its crescent-shaped coastline, Flamingo Beach is one of the most exclusive and popular beaches in Costa Rica. Also known as Playa Blanca (white beach), this dazzling stretch of sand is the perfect setting for a relaxing honeymoon or beachside wedding. Spend your days swimming and snorkelling in the country’s largest marina, bathed in salt water and warm sunshine.

ESCAPE THE CROWDS

If you’re seeking a low-key beach to enjoy some downtime with your beloved, then Brasilito Beach is the place for you. A short ten minute drive from the bright lights of the luxury, allinclusive hotels that line Flamingo Beach, this grey-sand strip is much quieter and less developed. Populated more frequently by locals than tourists, a day trip to Brasilito Beach will give you an authentic snippet into the true essence of Costa Rica. Before the day ends, visit Conchal Hotel’s restaurant, Papaya, for fresh and healthy food made with happiness and love. We recommend trying the fresh coconut shrimp and passionfruit mojitos! (conchalcr.com/papaya-restaurant) Just outside of Guanacaste, at the southernmost tip of the Nicoya Peninsula lies Mal País: a small village with a laid-back atmosphere where the road ends and the beach begins. The name may translate to ‘bad land’, but with its

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quiet stretches of splendid coastline and warm surfable waves, this surfer’s paradise is quite the opposite. If you’re looking for something a bit more lively, nearby beach town, Santa Teresa is a booming area brimming with bars, restaurants and seasoned adventure travellers who turn up to surf the strong swells of the coast.

Couples looking to try something new can take surf lessons on the gentle wave breaks of Mal País, before venturing north to ride the crest of stronger waves in Santa Teresa.

IDYLLIC ROMANCE

Redefine romance and have a tropical destination wedding immersed in the natural beauty of Papagayo. The boutique El Mangroove hotel (right) offers three specially designed wedding packages to choose from, whether you want to have the secluded elopement of your dreams or celebrate your life-changing union surrounded by family and friends in paradise. With a team of dedicated wedding planners on hand to take care of the arrangements, you can enjoy relaxing in the hotel’s wellness retreat and exploring the enamouring mangroves nearby. And this is just the beginning of your never-ending story; when the vows have been exchanged and the party is over, the adventures can really begin. Try paddle boarding on the still waters of the Pacific Ocean, or snorkelling in the underwater playgrounds and reefs. If you’re more relaxed than restless, then the uncrowded white-wash beaches are perfect for topping up your tan, whilst the hotel’s ocean-to-table restaurant, Makoko, is a gastronomical experience not to be missed. The most memorable honeymoon of your life awaits in peaceful Papagayo (elmangroove.net).

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PICTURE CAPTIVATING “ LAGOONS, SHIMMERING BEACHES, CRAGGY COVES AND DENSE RAINFOREST...”

JUNGLE LOVE

If you want to explore the best of what the western coast has to offer in terms of unspoiled natural beauty, be sure to visit Manuel Antonia National Park. Located 132km south west of San José, this protected coastal rainforest area is the smallest national park in the country. However, its 683 acres are full of stunning scenery: picture captivating lagoons, shimmering beaches, craggy coves and dense rainforest... not to mention the abundance of wildlife, like monkeys, iguanas and sloths that inhabit the area.

If you fall in love with the undisturbed paradise of Manuel Antonio, why not make it the site of your wedding, and marry at the glorious Villa Punto de Vista? Winner of Condé Nast Johansen’s ‘Best Luxury Villa’ 2016 award, this fully-staffed secluded villa (below and right) is a remarkable setting to stage your big day. Perched amidst verdant jungle with panoramic views of the opal-hued ocean, this idyllic venue caters for up to 100 wedding guests and sleeps 27 people.

From the moment you arrive in Costa Rica, the team of attentive butlers, housekeepers and wedding concierge will be on hand to ease the stress of planning your big day and ensure that you are pampered to perfection. For a ceremony with a view, say your vows on the rooftop terrace, overlooking the rainforest canopy beneath; for a more casual affair, have a champagne reception on the stylish pool deck. Alternatively, opt for a truly immersive wedding experience set on the golden sands of the beach, with the unparalleled backdrop of lush palm trees that line the coast.

With an array of options, the wedding of your dreams awaits (villapuntodevista.com).

“ OPT FOR A

TRULY IMMERSIVE WEDDING EXPERIENCE SET ON THE GOLDEN SANDS OF THE BEACH WITH A STUNNING BACKDROP OF LUSH PALM TREES ”

For the honeymoon of a lifetime, choose to stay at the Espadilla Ocean Club. Nestled in an area of astounding natural beauty, the Espadilla lies just a few minutes away from the stunning Manuel Antonio National Park and enjoys a breathtaking view of tantalising tropical rainforest. Boasting four contemporary, eco-friendly beachfront villas that provide the utmost privacy, there couldn’t be a more exclusive and serene setting for your honeymoon. With a private pool, kingsized bed and luxury living area, you can rest assured that your stay at Espadilla Ocean Club, will be one of total relaxation and utter serenity (espadillaoceanclub.com).

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Destinations TOP TIP!

“ MARVEL AT

During August and September humpback whales come to the warm waters surrounding the Osa Peninsula to give birth to their young calves, making this the best time to go whale spotting.

THE INCREDIBLE BIODIVERSITY OF AN ECO-CONSCIOUS COUNTRY WHERE ENDANGERED ANIMALS ARE STILL FREE TO ROAM IN THEIR NATURAL HABITATS.”

ECO-LUXURY

WANDER IN WONDER

THE WILD SIDE OF PARADISE

Journeying down to the south western corner of the country, you’ll find the pristine paradise of the rainforest-covered Osa Peninsula.

Hidden away in the southernmost tip of the peninsula, Drake Bay is an area that remains untouched by large resort developments and hordes of tourists. This is likely due to that fact that getting to Drake Bay can be an adventure in itself, involving river crossings, unpaved trails and questionable mountain passes. However, good things come to those who persist, as a world of rugged coves, immense biodiversity and untamed beauty awaits the intrepid traveller.

The area maintains an atmosphere of warm hospitality, which radiates from the smiling faces of the generous, friendly locals. This hidden gem on the pristine Pacific coastline is home to a variety of endangered species, aweinspiring natural landscapes and a wealth of eco-friendly activities, such as hiking, camping, scuba diving, and dolphin watching — perfect for couples who want to be harmonious with nature on their dream honeymoon.

Marvel at the incredible biodiversity of an ecoconscious country where animals are still in their natural habitats, free to ramble in their native lands, unharmed and untamed by humans. To truly submerge yourself in a world of exquisite ecology, head off the beaten path and traverse the hardly navigable trails that wind through the Corcovado National Park.

Not for the faint-hearted, a local guide can lead you through intense ecosystems ranging from mangrove swamps to mountainous terrains and jungle-clad flora. Opt for a night walk tour to see the rainforest come alive with nocturnal wildlife, or brave a sweeping canopy tour on a system of cables and platforms that soar above the ground. Close your eyes and immerse yourself in the magnificent natural world that surrounds you; squawking macaws and watchful tree frogs sit amidst the rainforest canopy whilst mischievous monkeys scamper from tree to tree across the forest floor. A visit to this nature reserve makes for a wonderfully unique experience on your honeymoon!

“ SQUAWKING

Designed with honeymooners in mind, Drake Bay Getaway Resort (below) is a boutique ecolodge located on the famous Osa Peninsula.

This exclusive hotel offers a rustic-luxury oasis set in the remote paradise of Drake Bay. With solar water heaters and a passive cooling system that eliminates the need for air conditioning, this luxury lodge has sustainability and conservation at its core. Built using sustainable teak wood and recyclable materials, each of the five luxury cabins are named after a native flower that matches its unique character. Stay in the aptly named Passion Cabin, located at the highest point of the resort. This romantic, spacious room features a balcony with hanging hammocks for lazy afternoons, dual tropical rain showers, a king-sized bed and stunning hilltop views of lush verdure. Indulge in an hour long massage on the balcony of your room, immersed in the incredible outdoors, listening to the stunning sound of the ocean waves and the gentle lulling of melodic birdsongs. At Drake Bay Getaway, staff are always on-hand to deliver you the most sensational experience of Costa Rica. With a focus on health and wellness, you can enjoy freshly made tropical fruit smoothies and specialty coffee drinks, organic herbs and vegetables, fresh locally caught seafood, and personalised meals (drakebaygetaway.com).

MACAWS AND WATCHFUL TREE FROGS SIT AMIDST THE RAINFOREST CANOPY WHILST MISCHIEVOUS MONKEYS SCAMPER ACROSS THE FOREST FLOOR.” w w w. dw ha . c o. uk

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DARING DIVERS

For an incredible underwater adventure like no other, dive the depths of the biological reserve surrounding Caño Island — just a one hour boat ride from Drake Bay. Organised by your hotel, your unforgettable day of diving starts the minute you step foot on the boat.

On your journey to the island, look out for endangered animals like humpback whales and rough-toothed and spotted dolphins, all guiding you on your way. The island is unaffected by seasonal rains, which means visibility is on average an astonishing 50 metres! Once you arrive, prepare yourself to be submerged in a menagerie of mesmerising marine life; think giant manta rays, dolphins, sharks and turtles, as well as an array of tropical fish. For the first time diver, Drake Bay Getaway can also help organise Open Water PADI courses with certified instructors. If you’re looking for something a little livelier than a beach retreat, diving in one of the world’s most impressive dive sites is sure to make for an incredible honeymoon experience.

THE AFRO“ CARIBBEAN INFLUENCES ARE REFLECTED IN THE SPICY FOOD THAT BUBBLES AND CRACKLES AT LOCAL STREET STALLS ALONG THE COAST. ”

CARIBBEAN TWIST

Making the effort to cross over to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica will reward you with bountiful beauty and hearty cuisine.

And as you can travel coast to coast in three hours, there’s really no reason why you can’t relax on the white shores of the Pacific side and snorkel in the warm Caribbean waters in the same trip!

The southern Caribbean coast is a laid-back stretch of beaches with a vivacious culture of its own. Originally inhabited by West Indian fisherman and English-speaking Afro-Caribbean settlers in the 19th century, the Caribbean side of Costa Rica has a rich agricultural history distinctive from the rest of the country. Whilst the jungles are as wild and untamed as on the Pacific side, the nightlife and atmosphere varies wildly. If you’re in search of some hedonistic fun, head to vibrant Puerto Viejo to experience Costa Rica’s eccentric side. Think late night parties in rustic bamboo bars and a soundtrack of Bob Marley set to a jungle melody of chattering birds. The Afro-Caribbean influences are reflected most poignantly in the incredible spicy food that bubbles and crackles in local eateries along the coast. You’ll find succulent jerk chicken and fish, sweet coconut rice and beans, and crispy patacones (fried plantain banana) on offer at most street stalls.

THE CARIBBEAN “ COAST WILL REWARD

YOU WITH BOUNTIFUL BEAUTY AND HEARTY CUISINE. ”

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TROPICAL STYLE

Stay at the single, most upscale hotel on this remote side of the island: Le Caméléon Boutique Hotel (below). With minimalist décor and all the modern conveniences you’d expect of a 5-star hotel, this resort is set amidst the luscious tropical surroundings of Playa Cocles, just 3km from Puerto Viejo. Perfect for your exotic honeymoon, the hotel can even help to arrange your dream Caribbean wedding with the sand beneath your toes and the hotel’s tropical garden as your backdrop. Let your imagination run wild with wedding possibilities, then allow the hotel’s dedicated wedding planners to make it a reality.

When the excitement of the day is over, relax in an oasis of tropical bliss and romance, strolling hand in hand along dazzling stretches of sand, dining at the hotel’s flavoursome international restaurant or relaxing in the resort’s wellness spa. With nearby wildlife refuges, uncrowded beaches and creative Caribbean cuisine, the eastern coast of Costa Rica is a haven for laidback couples in search of a unique and relaxing honeymoon (lecameleonhotel.com).

THE EASTERN COAST “ OF COSTA RICA IS A HAVEN FOR LAID-BACK COUPLES.”

TOP TIP!

The best way to explore the country for yourselves is to rent a 4x4 jeep. That way you can be flexible and discover all the hard to reach places, go at your own pace and get lost in the magical natural surroundings on offer.

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KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Getting married in Costa Rica is a breeze! There is no waiting period; all you need is a valid passport, two witnesses and a certificate of marital status for each of you. In Costa Rica, women do not change their surname when they marry, so the name on your marriage certificate and legal documentation will remain the same as your passport.

Of course you can change this when you return to your home country, if you so wish.

LUSCIOUS LIMÓN

To experience some of the most ecologically diverse wildlife that Costa Rica has to offer, visit the north eastern region of Limón.

Experiencing heavy rainfall, this part of the country is made up of swampland, marshes and dense rainforest — which is good news for nature-loving couples, as it means the area is rife with a rich diversity of exotic fauna. With an abundance of natural riches offering you an unparalleled experience of unspoiled Costa Rica, popular nature reserve, Tortuguero National Park beckons adventure tourists with its remote allure. Aside from its dense rainforests and freshwater lagoons, the most alluring thing about Tortuguero is its setting as the nesting and hatching ground of many turtles. Take a guided evening tour for your best chance to see the turtles dig their nests and lay eggs in the sand. If you’re lucky, you may get to witness newly hatched turtles racing across the beach to the sea! To experience this magical moment, the best time to visit is from July-October, when the turtles are most active.

For a truly exotic experience, choose to marry under the rainforest canopy of Tortuguero National Park. No need to pack flowers or table decorations as your surroundings abound with natural wildlife, fluorescent

PACK SMART flora and white ribbons of streams and waterfalls. Local vendors can help arrange the formalities so that you can exchange your vows with nature as your witness for the epitome of a secluded rainforest wedding.

To submerge yourself fully in the beauty of your surroundings, choose to stay at Laguna Lodge. Surrounded by spectacular views, one side opens up to the expansive Caribbean Sea, whilst the peaceful Tortuguero Lagoon lies on the other. Visit the hotel’s frog garden to see the endangered red-eyed frog for yourself, or take a boat tour of the national park to immerse yourself in the rainforest, teeming with untamed activity. Spread across six mesmerising acres of wild gardens, this eco-lodge offers the ultimate tropical getaway (lagunatortuguero.com).

For adventurous couples exploring the bounteous diversity of flora and fauna abundant in Costa Rica, you’ll need to come prepared!

Quick drying clothes, walking or hiking boots and a dry bag for your camera, wallet and valuables are essential. Not to mention mosquito repellent to ward off sneaky insects and sun cream to protect your skin!

Osprey Ultralight Drysac 12 in blue , £12 at snowandrock.com

Scarpa women’s rebel lite gore-tex boots, £240-£250 at snowandrock.com

Aroma sun expert hydrating milk, POA at decleor.co.uk

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HONEYMOON

HIDEAWAY

The idyllic Indian Ocean hosts some of the most striking and extraordinary islands in the world. We explore some of the smaller, lesser well-known shores that inspire romance from every view.

Words by Laura Bell 166

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Destinations

INDIAN OCEAN If you dream of waking to the rhythmic sound of waves gently lapping the shore, feasting on a fresh breakfast platter of exotic fruit and fresh coffee whilst surrounded by a spectrum of shimmering sapphires and opulent azures, then look no further. The iridescent Indian Ocean holds a myriad of mesmerising islands waiting to seduce you with their paradisiac charm. Whilst some of the astounding beaches of Mauritius, the Maldives and the Seychelles are popular and well-known tourist haunts, there remains a wealth of charmingly authentic, undiscovered islands just waiting to be explored.

Destination Info With a tropical climate, the Maldives enjoys warm weather all year round. The best time for European honeymooners to visit is between January and April, when humidity is at its lowest and the sunbathed days are unspoiled by stormy weather.

MESMERISING

MALDIVES

Made up of emerald isles that glisten in the glorious sun, the Maldives is undoubtedly one of the most premier honeymoon destinations in the world.

Featuring extensive coral reefs, tranquil turquoise waters and coconut-palm fringed beaches, a heavenly oasis of relaxation with an abundance of world-class resorts awaits. However, for couples who would rather not share their sand with another soul, the Maldives’ best kept secret, Mirihi Island, is a tropical dream that oozes secluded serenity. Just a 30 minute seaplane ride from capital Malé, the white-rimmed island is surrounded by luminous turquoise waters that hide a world of abundant marine activity.

PASSION FOR PARADISE

Want to be truly alone in paradise?

This hibiscus-scented island hosts just 37 villas scattered across its entirety, ensuring that there’s peace and privacy aplenty. Choose to stay at Mirihi Resort (above; below left) in either a picturesque Beach Villa or a spacious Water Villa — or for a truly luxurious stay, spoil yourself with the two-bedroomed Over Water Suite. Wake from your restful slumber and dip your toes in the warm caressing lagoon that encompasses the island.

Complete with a private jetty, an outdoor

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deck and a spacious living area, this is the ultimate relaxation retreat (mirihi.com).

ACTIVE ADVENTURES

For an even more intimate escape, let the romance of Makunudu island whisk you off your feet. Located in the North Malé atoll, a pristine haven of paradisiacal bliss awaits serenity-seeking couples. With just 36 bungalows on the entire island, its exotic, palm-fringed beaches and unique Maldivian atmosphere will leave you wanting to return again and again.

ISLAND LIFE

Stay in the charmingly rustic, thatchedroof bungalows that dot the beach. So close to the shore, you will be lulled to sleep by the rhythmic waves lapping against the sand. For adventure-loving couples, there’s a wealth of underwater gardens and water sports to keep you busy. Swim with turtles, eagle rays and nurse sharks in their natural habitat; or if you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at windsurfing and waterskiing. If you’d rather spend quality time celebrating your new union, why not take a magical sunset cruise across the still ocean?

Whatever you decide to do, sharing a joyous honeymoon in paradise with your beloved by your side is the perfect way to start married life (makunudu.com).

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RENDEZVOUS IN

LA RÉUNION

Just 175km east of Madagascar, the French department, Réunion Island — or La Réunion — boasts a landscape like no other. With a skyline accentuated by cloud-covered peaks jutting up from the island’s luscious interior, Réunion is an adventure-loving couple’s dream.

Featuring rugged mountains, vibrant volcanoes and verdant vegetation, explorers can traverse the hiking trails that wind around the three distinctive cirques that geologically characterise the island’s heart and soul. Made from volcanic erosion, Cirque de Mafate is a firm favourite amongst hikers looking for an adventure in the wilderness, thanks to its rugged landscape. Cirque de Salazie is a deep, ominous canyon lined with cascading waterfalls and luscious greenery, shrouded in a mystical fog of white mist, whilst Cirque de Cilaos offers visitors a colourful canyoning experience thanks to its flowing waterfalls and hypnotic natural scenery.

LUXE LOVIN’

Day trip!

elegantly decorated with a view of the peaceful lagoon. If hiking isn’t your thing, spend your days lounging on a lavish sun bed by the pool, sipping signature cocktails and topping up your tan. Or if you’d rather pamper yourself, take advantage of the resort’s fitness centre, yoga classes and in-room spa treatments — the perfect way to recharge your body and mind in one of the most tranquil settings on earth (luxresorts.com).

CREOLE CUISINE

An intriguing combination of French and African influences can be seen most prominently in the country’s cuisine, which reflects the island’s diverse melting pot of cultures. Hearty creole dishes like meat stews and flavoursome curries are accentuated with international flavours from France, India and China. All food is served with the spicy condiment ‘rougail’: a paste made from spices, tomatoes, lemons and pistachios — a must try!

Stay at the colonial inspired, five-star LUX Saint Gilles — a luxury resort with direct access to L’hermitage beach — a safe coral-sheltered lagoon perfect for swimming. Rooms are spacious and

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Take a helicopter ride over the sloping waterfalls of Le Voile de la Mariée, where an intricate web of waterways — often likened to the flowing tulle fabric of a wedding gown — cascade into a steaming sapphire oasis.

ADRENALINE JUNKIE? Why not hike and camp on the rim of the formidable Piton de la Fournaise volcano? An aweinspiring natural wonder, the name translates to ‘the peak of the furnace’; a visit will certainly add a thrill to your island idyll!

THE SPICE ISLE

ZANZIBAR

A hidden treasure of the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar is an idyllic archipelago off the east coast of Tanzania, alive with its colourful culture. This laid-back island has a chequered history filled with stories of slavery, ivory trading and spice plantations.

Having been colonised by the Portuguese Empire, the Sultanate of Oman and the British Empire, the country has experienced a somewhat turbulent past at the hands of its rulers. Zanzibar finally gained independence in 1963 and became a part of the Republic of Tanzania the following year, but its international influences from adventurers voyaging between Arabia, India and Africa are reflected in the culture and lifestyle of the people.

RUSTIC ALLURE

The majority of people make their living from farming and fishing on the island, and its rustic, easy-going charm is a massive draw to newlyweds looking to indulge in the privacy of a remote honeymoon hideout.

However, a holiday in Zanzibar is more than just relaxing on white-wash beaches and gazing upon still sapphire oceans — there’s a range of activities above and below water to keep you busy on your stay.

Take a journey on a traditional Zanzibari ‘dhow’ — a sailing boat with one or two masts — to the Menai Bay Conservation for an unforgettable day of dolphin spotting and coral reef snorkelling. Or, if you prefer to have two feet planted firmly on solid ground, then a historical tour of the cultural heritage surrounding Stone Town may be more to your taste. Foodie couples will be delighted to hear that they can take an authentic home-cooking class and learn how to make regional dishes using local produce and spices. But beware, Zanzibari food is often very hot!

SUITE LIFE

The northern coastline of Nungwi and Kendwa is lined with luxury hotels, which is good news for couples seeking a sumptuous stay on their rustic escape. Lay your head at the Kilindi hotel (below) and enjoy being utterly pampered in resplendent paradise.

Accommodation comes in the form of uniquely white-washed domes decorated in opulent style and spread across 35 acres of tropical garden and blissful beach. The arched villas each have a private plunge pool overlooking the pristine ocean, so you can lie back and let your imagination run wild, conjuring up images of sea voyagers from times gone by. At the Kilindi, staff are committed to making you feel as if you’re the only couple on the island, so on your honeymoon you’ll receive champagne on arrival, a one-hour couple’s massage and a dedicated personal butler — all free of charge. An aroma of nutmeg, cinnamon and saffron encompasses the island, ensuring that your stay will be a sensual experience of the highest order (elewanacollection.com/kilindi-zanzibar).

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Top Tip!

Zanzibar is a very religious country so be sure to cover up when out and about and keep PDAs for the hotel room.

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Destinations

ARABIAN NIGHTS

From bustling souks to skyscrapers to wild desert dunes, these five Middle Eastern destinations offer romance and luxury in abundance.

Words by Georgina Crosswell

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THE REAL VOYAGE OF “ DISCOVERY CONSISTS

NOT IN SEEKING NEW LANDSCAPES, BUT IN HAVING NEW EYES.”

T

he compilation of Arabic folk stories ‘One Thousand and One Nights’ (including the famous Aladdin) has fired people’s imaginations for centuries, even today conjuring images of exotic lands, silks and sensuality.

Venture out into the untouched desert and you can almost hear the echoes of these ancient fables on the breeze; yet just nearby are futuristic cities full of cutting edge skyscrapers, where luxury is the modern legend. If you and your partner are looking for an exotic and non-typical honeymoon then any of these five destinations will make for one unforgettable Middle Eastern adventure. (Just remember to keep the local customs in mind, cover up, and save the PDA for the hotel!)

BAHRAIN Bahrain is a small archipelago on the Persian Gulf with a history stretching all the way back to ancient Mesopotamia. Stay at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain boasting world-class facilities, ranging from extravagant suites to its own private island. The hotel’s modern glamour is the ideal setting for an exotic romance. Away from this perfect luxury, explore the dazzling capital of Manama.

Bahrain’s National Museum is particularly impressive, and be sure to visit the Qalat al Bahrain, a beautiful crumbling fort on the coast. Looking out over the battlements as the sun sets on the Arabian Gulf, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into your very own historical romance. (ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/middle-east/ bahrain).

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QATAR Just across the sparkling water from Bahrain is Qatar.

Booming with cutting edge architecture, but also rewarding the amorous explorer with a rich experience, Qatar is a city on the rise with an authentic soul. Stay at the Al Sharq Village Resort & Spa (above), a stunningly romantic and luxurious resort in a location that cannot be bettered. From the doorstep of the hotel take a stroll along the Al Corniche, a promenade that arcs along the waterfront and looks out over Doha bay and the impressive Qatar skyline (ritzcarlton.com).

Only a few kilometres away is the Museum of Islamic Art, a building which has itself become iconic and houses within it some truly stunning collections. However, for a fully immersive experience, visit the vibrant Souk Waqif, a marketplace meticulously rebuilt in traditional Qatari style and now a thriving hub of historical charm. Take in the atmosphere whilst lounging together on cushions, enjoying shisha or sipping strong, aromatic coffee; get lost among the narrow winding streets and browsing the colourful textiles which abound under traditional clay archways, soaking up the sound of haggling merchants with the smell of exotic spices hanging in the air (mia.org.qa/en).

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SOAK UP THE “ SOUND OF HAGGLING

MERCHANTS WITH THE SMELL OF EXOTIC SPICES HANGING IN THE AIR.”

Destinations

DUBAI The most populated city in theUnitedArabEmirates is Dubai: a name synonymous with luxury hotels and shopping malls. Whilst this is certainly true, the city also has a rich cultural heritage just waiting to be explored. The Burj Al Arab, with its distinctive shape like a ship’s billowing sail, is a proud symbol of the Dubai skyline and has been repeatedly voted the most luxurious hotel in the world. As a honeymoon destination it might be better to admire the Burj from the nearby Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf (above; right). A romantic but still wildly luxurious resort, where you can gaze up at the iconic building from the luxury of your private beach (jumeirah.com).

Not far from here is the vast Dubai Fountain, an unmissable spectacle of 140m high jets of water that appear to dance with exquisitely choreographed precision. You can also view the fountains from another of Dubai’s iconic skyscrapers, the Burj Khalifa, though beware of queues — especially at sunset. The extravagant shopping is also no exaggeration; the lavish Mall of the Emirates, as if to prove a point, offers fully formed ski slopes complete with penguins at Ski Dubai, and Dubai Mall is the second largest in the world with plans to expand. An entire weekend would be inadequate to explore this site fully, and if high-end shopping is your idea of heaven, Dubai Mall may prove to be the gates of paradise.

IF HIGH-END SHOPPING “ IS YOUR IDEA OF HEAVEN,

DUBAI MALL MAY PROVE TO BE THE GATES OF PARADISE.”

However, amongst all the opulence it is possible to glimpse a rich heritage and not a little romance. At Dubai Creek you can explore the souks and waterways of the old city by catching abras: traditional water-taxis that have been

DINNER BY “ FLICKERING

used since the 1700s. They are a pure taste of authentic Dubai (and a single trip only costs 20p).

Relax, visit restaurants, museums and coffee shops around this bustling hub of old world charm, or hop back on an abra and head to the gold and spice souk for an alternative shopping experience. Take a dinner cruise in a traditional dhow to experience the creek at a more leisurely pace; simply sit back and soak up the atmosphere whilst enjoying traditional food and music.

No trip to Dubai is complete without a venture out into the desert, where dinner by flickering torchlight on the banks of an oasis — followed by a night of camping under the stars — is a once in a lifetime romantic experience. A desert safari can be tailored towards almost any interest or activity: astronomy and star-gazing; wildlife; camel-riding; experiencing traditional Bedouin culture; even ‘fat-biking’ and ‘dune-bashing’ for thrill-seeking couples.

TRIP TIP!

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TORCHLIGHT ON THE BANKS OF AN OASIS — FOLLOWED BY A NIGHT OF CAMPING UNDER THE STARS — IS A ONCE IN A LIFETIME ROMANTIC EXPERIENCE.” KNOW BEFORE YOU GO WEATHER

The Middle East is a mostly hot and dry region, although coastal areas can be humid. Late July and August can be very hot, with temperatures well above 40°C, so avoiding these months is advisable for honeymoons.

DOCUMENTS

Expatriates can be married in the UAE providing at least one side has a residence visa. You will also need passports, birth certificates, divorce decrees and a health check prior to your marriage.

For some other countries in the Middle East, it may be more appropriate to have a blessing in the country, after being officially married at home.

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TAKE A DHOW TRIP TO “ THE OMAN FJORDS AND

SAIL ALONGSIDE LEAPING DOLPHINS AMID SWEEPING MOUNTAIN SCENERY.”

OMAN There is no better way to finish off a MiddleEastern adventure than with the rugged natural beauty of Oman, a country where wild camels roam along sandy beaches and a wealth of stunning scenery, awaits exploration. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a day trip to Wadi Shab. This stunning landscape of gargantuan rocky canyons is like a lost world, with leafy palms and waterfalls emerging from hidden alcoves and aquamarine pools you can swim in.

ABU DHABI Abu Dhabi has found recent fame as a location for the latest Star Wars: The Force Awakens, filmed in the dramatically named Rub’ al Khali or ‘The Empty Quarter’. Despite existing alongside the largest stretch of uninhabited desert in the world, Abu Dhabi is also the capital of the UAE and its second most populous city (after Dubai). Stay at the Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri for a luxurious and romantic experience, from where you can admire the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (above) in the distance.

The mosque is a breathtaking vision, with clusters of white marble domes that nudge the sky like clouds, all topped with glinting gold spires; you can’t help but feel peaceful in such a sacred and tranquil space (shangri-la.com).

TRIP TIP!

Because of the year-round heat in Abu Dhabi, light and loose clothing that covers and protects the skin is a must!

For a real sense of the city, stroll or cycle along the famous Corniche: a pristine stretch of beach and promenade with bars, restaurants and spectacular sea-views. Just off the Corniche Road, the Nahaam is a restaurant with a recipe for an unforgettable evening; impeccably stylish decor, delicious food and breathtaking scenery to indulge your senses in every way. A stroll along the Corniche at sunset will put you in just the right place for when the evening buzz begins to build and the incredible, futuristic skyscrapers light up and sparkle in the evening light.

A STROLL ALONG THE “ CORNICHE AT SUNSET WILL PUT YOU IN JUST THE RIGHT PLACE FOR WHEN THE EVENING BUZZ BEGINS TO BUILD.”

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Truly unmissable, however, is a trip to the stunning Oman Fjords, where you can sail alongside leaping dolphins amid sweeping mountain scenery in a traditional dhow boat. Just around the corner from here is the sensational Six Senses Zighy Bay Resort (below), that boasts luxurious décor, palm-dotted golden sands, and snug beach-front villas that cater specifically for couples. What better way to end an exotic honeymoon than in this breathtakingly beautiful country, gazing out over the Gulf of Oman in true romantic seclusion? (sixsenses.com)

Destinations

SIX SENSES

ZIGHY BAY RESORT

OMAN

Six Senses Zighy Bay (right) is a resort tucked into the spectacular mountain scenery of the northern Musandam Peninsula in the Sultanate of Oman.

Exquisite accommodation comes in the form of 82 indigenous village-style pool villas, guarded by the dramatic Hajar Mountains and a private sandy beach. Privacy is paramount; a personal butler will assist in making everyone’s dreams come true. Authentic, personal and sustainable, Six Senses Zighy Bay is in harmony with its unique surroundings; local, yet in tune with the wider world and designed to impart memories that will last a lifetime. Tantalise your senses with the feel of soft sand underfoot, listen to the lapping water during a leisurely dhow cruise, and enjoy the resort’s unique commitment to helping people reconnect with themselves and the world around them.

DELECTABLE DINING Guests have a diverse selection of memorable dining experiences to choose from: the mountaintop restaurant, Sense on the Edge, serves international cuisine together with spectacular views over the crystal waters of the Gulf of Oman, whilst regional specialties await at the bedouin-style Shua Shack. The Vinotheque offers fine dining atop the Wine Cellar, which holds over 250 different labels. For a change of pace, in-villa dining is an intimate and romantic experience which your personal butler will be pleased to arrange.

PERFECTLY PAMPERED The Six Senses Spa at Zighy Bay is a refuge for mind and body, a sanctuary of ultimate wellbeing committed to delivering integrated wellness experiences. The spa combines peace, tranquility, fitness and health with ancient and modern holistic treatments from expert in-house and visiting wellness practitioners.

Indulge in the Wonders of Oman, showcasing locally produced ingredients from the resort’s own Organic Garden.

Choose a wellness programme tailored for results that will last.

AWESOME ADVENTURE Adventures start with a paraglide arrival into Zighy Bay and allow guests to experience the culture of Oman and the buzz of a chic lifestyle.

Dhow cruises, trekking, mountain biking or rock climbing and customised tours suit both the active guest and the guest who prefers to sit back and relax, taking in all that this rich and vibrant culture has to offer (sixsenses.com).

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VALENCIA Enjoy a fiesta of love and magic in Valencia: a city as vibrant as its people, with festivities to rival the most lively of celebrations!

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Destinations

Sisley tinted facial sun care SPF 30, £103 at sisley-paris.com

TOP TIP! With all the fun of the festivities, don’t forget to keep topping up your sun cream! Whilst Valencia enjoys a Mediterranean climate with average temperatures of 17˚C, the weather can peak at 27˚C in July and August!

T

he name ‘Valencia’ is derived from the Latin word for bravery and strength.

Spain’s third largest city stands tall over a luxuriant port in all the glory one might expect. Known for its stunning green belt of parkland — created to divert the Turia River (once prone to flooding) — and an array of architecture that will tantalise and surprise at every turn, this romantic city is the perfect honeymoon hotspot for any culture-loving couple. La Huerta, a luscious landscape of farmland and fruit orchards, envelops the city, while the Mediterranean Sea splashes at its shoreline. Of course, you might also know the city as the hometown of the ever-comforting paella! However you discover Valencia, there is a wondrous, eclectic mixture of experiences awaiting you for the best holiday of your life.

BEAUTIFUL BUILDINGS

The buildings of Valencia are a testament to its complex history, from occupation by the Middle East, to modernisation and industrialisation. Some notable highlights include the architectural feat of Valencia Cathedral, and the UNESCO World Heritage castle Llotja de la Seda, which stands watch over the city in all its Gothic splendor.

However, if you’re looking for something more contemporary, there is no overlooking The City of Arts and Sciences (below, left).

This unbelievable cultural and architectural complex on the river is made up of several outof-this-world buildings covering everything from botany to marine life to opera. It is one of the premier visiting hotspots in the country.

For a taste of culture, head to Mercado Central — considered to be one of the oldest markets in Europe. Whatever your interests, the city is a dream for anyone looking for an insight into both historical and modern Spanish culture.

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WEDDING “ TRADITIONS ARE AS

VIBRANT IN VALENCIA AS THEIR FESTIVITIES! ”

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THE LAS FALLAS “ FESTIVAL IS RENOWNED AS BEING ONE OF THE CRAZIEST FESTIVALS IN EUROPE. ”

THE FIRES OF LOVE

The rich and diverse culture, of course, goes back a long way in Spanish history. Valencia has been the home of many groups, peoples and traditions; it has come out the other side as a wonderful mosaic of all of these influences.

For an experience of the colourful vibrancy at the core of the city, there is no better time to go than in March, when Las Fallas takes place.

Renowned as one of the craziest festivals in Europe, huge and frequently satirical sculptures made from wood and paper are put up around the city, while dancing, street food, laughter and music fill the streets. But most iconic of all is the conclusion to the total of five days’ worth of celebration: the burning!

On the 19th March each year, the models are all burnt to the floor in a dramatic flurry of flames.

Wedding traditions are as vibrant in Valencia as their festivities, celebrating love with a flourish. From the traditional rice throwing to parties that go on late into the night: ceremonies often don’t start until around 7pm.

Conventionally, there are no bridesmaids or groomsmen, and no speeches either, but weddings in Valencia are never short of guests! They are a time for every member of both families to gather together, so the guest list can go above 200! With entertainment usually continuing until 4 or 5am, the party is definitely one to remember.

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EATING AND STAYING

If such a fiesta suits your interests and style, Valencia should be top of your list. But what about the morning after your nuptial parade?

Beginning your married life in Valencia will give you the chance to explore the city with all the wedmin stress lifted from your shoulders. For a real taste of Spanish cuisine, try El Bolon Verde (elbolonverde.com), or for an up-market gourmet delight, don’t miss Michelin starred restaurant Ricard Camarena (ricardcamarenarestaurant.com). And for the warm Spanish nights in the glowingly lit city, a host of fabulous, design-conscious hotels await.

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FOODIE FARE Valencia is world-famous for its colourful cuisine, mainly made up of seafood, rice and vegetables. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that Valencia claims the title of ‘The City Of Paella’! While you’re there, don’t miss trying the authentic and fresh, steaming pans of fragrant and flavoursome rice!

Destinations One of our favourites is Caro Hotel (below, right). This striking property has a bewildering choice of 26 suites, all entirely unique, with a mixture of ceiling beams and intricate framework, decadent baths in bedrooms, private terraces and more. Effortlessly chic and simple, the hotel looks regal on the outside, with a cool and modern interior within. Clean lines, warming colours and highdesign furniture make the spaces feel alive and artistic, epitomising modern European design. The restaurant, Alma Del Temple, is one of the most beautiful restaurants in the world, approved by Taschen and the Michelin Guide 2014. The space is actually built upon the foundations of an ancient Arabic stone wall, and is divided into several sections by steel and glass. What’s more, this wonderful hotel is just a 25 minute drive from the sandy shores of Malvarrosa Beach. Between its perfect location, the spacious rooms, excellent service, views of the picturesque surrounding streets and a splash pool, you won’t find a hotel more suited to a luxury honeymoon than Caro (carohotel.com).

With its famous food, fabulous spaces and parties to end all parties, Valencia is the perfect destination for your unforgettable and stylish honeymoon. The best time of year to visit the city is in the summer, between May and September, although those who want to avoid the high heat should steer clear of August.

The temperature rests in the mid-20s, but can spike above 30°C on hot days. See our Know Before You Go area page for all the official bits you’ll need to know before your wedding in Spain. To learn more, visit valencia.com.

WITH ITS FAMOUS “ FOOD, FABULOUS

SPACES AND PARTIES TO END ALL PARTIES, VALENCIA IS THE PERFECT DESTINATION FOR YOUR UNFORGETTABLE HONEYMOON ”

DID YOU KNOW?

Valencia is famous for creating the beverage ‘horchata’: a natural refreshment made from tiger nuts, and served ice-cold. The perfect treat after a day of exploring the city!

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Destinations

ITALIAN AMOUR

With enchanting castles, stunning coastlines and medieval countryside, couples looking to marry in Italy are spoiled for choice! Laura Bell explores some of our favourite spots. w w w. d w ha . co . u k

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LAKE COMO

LAKESIDE LOVE With breathtaking landscapes, stunning scenery and an eminent atmosphere of romance, there’s no wonder Lake Como is a popular wedding destination for stylish couples looking to tie the knot in Italy. And what better way to celebrate your union than by honeymooning at your very own private Italian estate on the banks of the peaceful lake.

Accessible only by boat, the exclusive Villa La Cassinella (below) is set amongst perfectly manicured gardens in the secluded western shore of the lake, undisturbed by tourists. The villa boasts a cinema, tennis courts, an infinity pool and a state-of-the-art gym, so you can relax in style before the big day. Offering you refined sophistication and first-rate hospitality with its seamless blend of modern luxury and natural beauty, the villa comes complete with a team of attentive staff and concierge services to cater to your

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FROM HIKING TRAILS “ TO VINEYARD TOURS

AND PRIVATE BOAT RENTALS, THERE’S PLENTY OF ACTIVITIES TO KEEP YOU BUSY! ”

every need. From tennis and yoga instructors to highly regarded caterers and nannies, your every desire will be taken care of at Villa La Cassinella.

Rooms are tastefully adorned with antique furniture and graceful décor: the whole estate radiates sophisticated elegance. The location also offers guests a range of activities nearby — from hiking trails to vineyard tours and private boat rentals, you’ll never find yourselves struggling for things to do (villalacassinella.com).

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DID YOU KNOW?

Lake Como was formed during the Ice Age and is one of Europe’s deepest lakes, measuring over 425m down at its deepest recorded point!

Destinations

TUSCANY

TUSCANY PACK SMART!

COURTLY ROMANCE THIS MEDIEVAL “ CASTLE IS THE

ULTIMATE VENUE FOR COUPLES WANTING TO CELEBRATE IN A ROMANTIC RENAISSANCE-STYLE SETTING.”

For the ultimate fairy-tale wedding venue, choose to marry at Castello di Vincigliata (below left and right): a magical medieval castle nestled in the hills of Fiesole, Tuscany. Just a stone’s throw away from Florence, this castle is oozing with ancient splendour and steeped in a history that dates back to the 11th century. Let the spectacular panoramic views of historical Florence be the backdrop to your special day; have your ceremony on the lawns surrounded by tall castle walls and magnificently pruned Italian gardens.

Walk along the candlelit passageways where the glowing light reflects upon the stone walls, guiding the way to your beloved. Host your reception in the lavish ballroom or stately courtyard for the wedding of your dreams. The castle can host up to 200 guests; while there is no accommodation on site, you won’t be short of choice with many hotels nearby. Luxury wedding planners Italian Wedding Event are on hand to provide all the extras you may require, including caterers, florists and musicians, so that your day will be as unique as you are. For couples wanting to celebrate their love in a romantic Renaissance-style setting, this medieval castle truly is the ultimate venue (italianweddingevent.com). w w w. d w ha . co . u k

Be sure to remember your walking boots! With a mountainous landscape and a wealth of vineyards to explore, the outdoor honeymoon of your dreams awaits in stunning Tuscany.

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AMALFI COAST

PICTURESQUE POSITANO BREATHE IN THE “ AROMA OF

FRESHLY PREPARED MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE WHILST ABSORBING THE PANORAMIC VIEWS OF THE ITALIAN SEASCAPE.”

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With breathtaking views of the stunning Italian coastline, the Amalfi Coast is the setting of choice for chic couples looking for luxury. Offering a bounteous selection of high-end hotels and venues to stage your wedding, it is impossible not to fall in love with the elegant charm of this stretch of shore. For a vibrant and unique Mediterranean experience, a wedding in Positano — with its pastel coloured terraces of elegant buildings overlooking golden sands and azure sea — is the ultimate coastal destination.

Steinbeck once described the area as ‘a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you are gone’. Take Steinbeck’s word for it: a wedding in Positano will create everlasting memories that simply grow fonder with time. For an intimate, small-scale ceremony, marry at clifftop residence Villa Oliviero. Not only a villa, but a wedding venue too, Villa Oliviero

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comes complete with a dedicated team of exclusive wedding planners who work their hardest to make sure every single detail is exactly as you imagined it. Villa Oliviero sleeps up to 12, so you can relax with close family at the venue before your big day. Enjoy a glass of fine wine lounging by the villa’s clifftop pool, breathing in the aroma of freshly prepared Mediterranean cuisine and absorbing the incredible panoramic views of the Italian seascape. For an enchanting Italian elopement, Positano is the ultimate destination wedding location (villaoliviero.it).

Destinations

DAY TRIP!

UMBRIA

A hilly and mountainous region, Umbria is full of flowing rivers and mineral and thermal springs. Visit impressive waterfalls for a fun day out!

WINELANDS WEDDING Step into a world of peaceful tranquillity and opt for a rustic wedding in the winegrowing region of central Italy.

Nestled in hidden valleys and rolling hills on the border between Alto Lazio and Umbria, Villa Tirenna gives guests a taste of the picturesque Italian countryside as well as the region’s finest wines. The Italian farm house’s traditional features, such as exposed wooden floor boards and grand fireplaces in every room, are paired with all modern amenities — providing couples with a charming and intimate setting to say ‘I do’. Culture-loving couples can explore the depths of the estate’s wine cellars and admire the onsite art and sculpture collection. Work off your evening glasses of wine by getting active and immersing yourselves in the great Italian outdoors: hike through the region’s hills and explore the local vineyards before relaxing in the villa’s private pool. Surrounded by cascading fields and luscious olive groves, Villa Tirenna turns the vineyard wedding of your dreams into a reality (paoloenoemiadamico.it/en).

“ HIKE THROUGH

THE REGION’S HILLS AND EXPLORE THE LOCAL VINEYARDS”

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VENICE

VENETIAN ALLURE Venice, famed for its sensual aroma of love that fills the city’s meandering streets, is romance personified. Stroll along the winding cobbled paths and stumble upon hidden courtyards; proclaim your love from the balconies of Venice’s classical buildings; or immerse yourself in Italian culture at some of the most acclaimed Art museums in Europe.

Of course, when on a romantic break in Venice, a gondola ride along the Grand Canal is a must. Drift gently through the city’s network of narrow waterways, taking in the majestic buildings that leap up from the water’s edge. Let the whisper of the gentle breeze serenade you along your river journey, for the most romantic experience of your honeymoon.

When it comes to the ceremony, for a wedding like no other, hire haute couture designer and luxury wedding planner, Antonia Sautter. Famed for her creative designs and prestigious events planning, Antonia has organised Venice’s social event of the year, Ill Ballo del Doge since 1994. Offering the option for custom made bridal dresses, a wedding planned

by Antonia will combine traditional elegance with modern exuberance so that your day will be nothing less than fabulous (antoniasautter.it).

Stay in sophisticated luxury at the Baglioni Hotel Luna, with its grand, opulent suites decorated in refined 2 04

Italian style. Take in the breathtaking views of magnificent San Giorgio Island from the comfort of your San Giorgio Terrace Suite, adorned regally in unique Venetian furnishings.

For the very best of locally-sourced, traditional Venetian food, eat at the hotel’s awardwinning Canova Restaurant, which serves high-quality culinary delights to satisfy the finest of diners. Whether you choose to marry in one of the city’s quaint locations, or you simply want the honeymoon of a lifetime, Venice’s hazy charm will make you fall in love, again and again (baglionihotels.com).

FLAVOURS OF ITALY

Featuring fresh fish and flavoursome sauces, Venetian cuisine is not to be missed.

Try signature dish, Bigoli in Salsa: a simple plate of long, whole-wheat pasta strands that resemble thick spaghetti. Try the sweet and sour starter, Agrodolce: fried sardines marinated in vinegar, onions, raisins and pine nuts, for a taste of traditional Italy. And of course, in Venice there is an abundance of delectable gelato on every street; from pistachio creams to tangy mango sorbet, you’re bound to find a flavour to tantalise your taste buds!

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TRAVELLER’S TIP! Head to the Rialto Markets by the Rialto Bridge, where merchants have been trading since the 11th century.

Be sure to arrive bright and early, at around 7am, to savour the authentic local atmosphere as bustling merchant ships unload their daily delivery of fresh vegetables, meat and products.

Destinations

BONA DEA PRIVATE ESTATE

Breathtaking mountain views, enchanting sunsets and a romantic wilderness: Bona Dea Private Estate is the perfect gateway to an unforgettable wedding destination in Hermanus, South Africa.

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MOUNTAIN ESCAPE

Named after the Roman Goddess “Bona Dea” the secluded Bona Dea Private Estate is one of South Africa’s most luxurious venues within the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley area of Hermanus. The venue is located near the beautiful shores of Walker Bay, in a picturesque location gently nestled against mountain slopes with endless views across the valley. Home to the first orchids planted in the area, the dream-like setting is one of the oldest and most traditionally sought after locations in South Africa. The estate boasts endless views across heavenly vineyards, wild fynbos and mountainous terrain; perfect for an idyllic country landscape.

This iconic destination of spectacular, natural beauty is just a 90 minute drive from Cape Town, making it the perfect location to visit on your romantic getaway.

AN ELEGANT PACKAGE

The remarkable venue complex of Bona Dea Private Estate is overlooked by owner Diddi Johnson who offers the grand Dendrobium Wedding Complex venue to guests worldwide. The building incorporates traditional elements of a Cape-styled farmhouse, adding a sense of romantic privacy amidst the captivating wilderness of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Its natural water features and garden terraces make the luxurious venue perfect for a romantic ceremony, with an array of wedding options on offer that are flexible and can be personalised. For an afternoon ceremony, guests can choose to enjoy welcome drinks, outdoor canapés and the tranquil views of the Fynbos Mountains. In the evening, the garden can be adorned with up to 20,000 sparkling fairy lights, adding a magical ambience to the forest greenery.

The estate’s lavish staircase makes for the perfect introduction, and the mirrored ballroom hosts 160 guests with a generous dance floor to enjoy. For an even more exclusive experience, enjoy private dining with your

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selected 18 guests for an intimate feast and make memories that will last a lifetime.

The building also offers a limited number of private bedrooms where you and your beloved can wake in comfort and luxurious style, taking in the panoramic views of South Africa’s most treasured landscape. Whether you are looking for a day that is grand but intimate, or stylish yet understated — the building’s features capture every essence of luxury and romance.

EXCLUSIVE TOUCH

For the most memorable and spectacular celebration, the estate’s team of top wedding planners offer their luxury expertise to ensure the most refined elements of your wedding day come to life. As winners of the Top Vendor “Peers’ Choice Best Country Venue of 2015”, you can trust the team of onsite interior designers, talented master florists and creative stylists to impeccably transform your wedding vision into something spectacular! The team’s strong ethos of sourcing local produce means that your flowers will be locally grown in the Hermanus area. Proteas are grown on the estate and are lovingly selected for brides wishing to include proteas in their floral décor.

Allow Bona Dea’s specialist team to guide you with precision, ensuring every detail — from your colour palette to your table arrangements — falls perfectly into place on your special day.

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“

ENJOY THE TRANQUIL GARDENS OF THE HEMEL-EN-AARDE VALLEY AND EXPERIENCE THE NATURAL UTOPIA OF SOUTH AFRICA: A PERFECT PLACE TO BEGIN YOUR EVERLASTING LOVE STORY

”

Destinations A SCENIC ROUTE

The exclusive location of the Hemelen-Aarde Valley is abundant with ways to explore the rural landscape of South Africa. Embarking on a scenic wine route is a perfect activity for you and your beloved to explore the hidden jewel of the valley and its endless stretch of vineyards.

The wine route includes fifteen wineries, each producing premium quality wine that embodies the unique spirit of each vineyard in every bottle. Offering some of the best Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes grown in the region, the Hermanus Wine Route provides the most delectable tipples for couples and their guests to enjoy. The route can be explored at any time, but it is most scenic between September and April; time your visit accordingly to enjoy both the finest wines and the heavenly scenery. For a more exhilarating experience, visit the private game reserve ‘Big 5’ getaway — just a four hour drive from Bona Dea.

“

THE VALLEY IS CONVENIENTLY LOCATED 90 MINUTES FROM THE URBAN BUSTLE OF CAPE TOWN MAKING IT THE PERFECT ROMANTIC RETREAT FOR YOU AND YOUR BELOVED

”

TRAVELLER’S TIP Hermanus is 40km from Gansbaai, a famous spot where you can dive amongst Great White Sharks!

ENDLESS ADVENTURES

The idyllic estate is just 3km from the town of Hermanus, offering a selection of leisurely hiking routes in the surrounding nature reserves of Groenlandberg, Kogelberg and Fernkloof. When you’ve had your fill of exhilarating treks, embark on a romantic cycle through the vineyards and soak up the monumental Babylonstoren and Raed-na-Gael Mountains. For your chance to share a memorable moment at sea with your beloved, visit between June and December, when the incredible Humpback, Bryde’s and Killer Whales frequent the warm waters surrounding South Africa. To further immerse yourself in local culture, indulge in the country’s creative cuisine, featuring fresh crayfish, seasonal line-fish and stone-ground bread for an authentically South African adventure (bonadea.co.za).

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Located behind the old fishing village of Hermanus, Hamilton Russel Vineyards boasts a beautiful wine estate. Take your beloved for a romantic picnic under the trees and sample some of Hamilton Russell’s award winning wines.

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ROMANCE ON POINT LUXURY COUPLES RETREAT: POINT GRACE

AWARDS CONDÉ NAST’S 2003 - 2005 Gold Lists CONDÉ NAST’S 2006 - 2012 Recommended Hotels List

Award-winning Caribbean retreat Point Grace is a tropical haven on the stunning island of Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

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ar away on the small tropical island of Providenciales — a haven of warm white sand surrounded by aqua-marine ocean — lies the multi-award winning Point Grace Resort. This secluded hotel has romance at its core.

The story goes that in 1892, a young woman named Grace Hutchings sailed here with her new husband, and so charmed the locals with her elegant and gracious nature that the area was named Grace Bay. Over a century later, the Point Grace Resort has taken this story to heart.

in the evening to sample the mouthwatering dinner menu and the melting pot of authentic ethnic flavours that make up the local cuisine. There are also a range of international dishes and, of course, the freshest seafood cooked to perfection. Grace’s Cottage is exceedingly cosy, with white gingerbread trim and authentic Caribbean décor, but it is the extra touches — such as soft lighting, seating under-thestars and tables set thoughtfully far apart — that provide you and your loved one true intimacy in this idyllic atmosphere.

“ THIS SECLUDED HOTEL HAS ROMANCE AT ITS CORE.”

Point Grace offers some delectable dining experiences at Hutchings Restaurant throughout the day, or visit Grace’s Cottage 2 12

The resort itself is quintessentially Caribbean; classic, colonial architecture flawlessly Ma y / J u n e

WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS 2005 - 2010 Caribbean’s Leading Boutique Hotel CONDÉ NAST TRAVELLER Described Grace Bay as ‘one of the best beaches in the world’.

Destinations combines with elegant interiors full of dark mahogany and dreamy white linen. From cosy cottage suites to lavish, four-bedroom penthouses, this is tasteful luxury at its finest.

Relax in sophisticated serenity at the oceanfront spa, listening to the waves gently breaking on Grace Bay and soaking up the exquisite quality of your surroundings.

You can even get married on this very beach, described by Condé Nast Traveller as ‘one of the best beaches in the world.’ Point Grace offers their assistance and expertise with wedding organisation so you won’t have to worry about a thing. Simply say your vows with the sand between your toes and the warm Caribbean breeze in your hair. The resort exudes a warm, familial atmosphere and feeling of exclusivity that brings returning guests back to stay year after year. With a resort like this you won’t ever want to leave.

“ RELAX IN

SOPHISTICATED SERENITY, LISTENING TO THE WAVES GENTLY BREAKING ON GRACE BAY.”

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS: The Turks and Caicos Islands are made up of two groups of islands: the smaller Turks Islands, and the larger Caicos Islands. The group is located in the North Atlantic Ocean, not far from the Bahamas. The weather is notably pleasant, with an average temperature between November and May of 27-29˚C and very few days of rain a year.

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GRENADA

THE SPICE OF LIFE

Do you dream of marrying in an oasis of pristine bliss and honeymooning in an unspoiled paradise?

Grenada is a unique island rich with Caribbean charm.

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Destinations

IDYLLIC ISLAND

Grenada is known as the Spice Isle for its longstanding history as a major exporter of spices. With submerged shipwrecks and hidden rock pools, pristine beaches and the aroma of nutmeg drifting on every balmy breeze, there is nowhere more suited to romance with just a hint of adventure. Whether you want to relax in romantic seclusion, get your heart racing with adventurous exploring, or soak up the colourful Caribbean culture, let Grenada sweep you both away. Sipping rum punch with your toes in the sand, you and your partner can forget the world and enjoy nothing but each other’s company and this idyllic island.

“ THER IS NOWEHERE

MORE SUITED TO ROMANCE WITH JUST A HINT OF AVENTURE.”

LALUNA RESORT

The Laluna Resort Grenada is a premier boutique hotel that specialises in destination weddings, making it the perfect location to stage your ceremony. The resort’s experienced staff can help to organise a picturesque wedding in their secluded bay so you don’t have to stress or worry — simply say your vows enveloped in a totally tropical paradise.

Full of quintessentially Caribbean décor with a contemporary twist, the resort provides luxurious accommodation for you and your guests. Their two spacious villas are perfect for families and groups of friends, accommodating up to ten guests each. Relax around your private infinity pool, or enjoy a cosy barbecue on your very own roof terrace whilst taking in the incredible views of the glistening ocean.

For more intimate accommodation, sixteen snug Cottage Suites are nestled into the upper hillside of the complex, and come complete with private verandas and plunge pools; the perfect honeymoon base.

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“ SAY YOUR

VOWS ENVELOPED IN A TOTALLY TROPICAL PARADISE ”

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ROMANTIC SPOTS

Grenada truly spoils newlyweds with a host of secluded beaches where you can unwind in perfect privacy. Just along the coast from the Laluna Resort is the Morne Rouge Beach; dotted with swaying palm trees and blessed with perfect swimming conditions, this beach is the definition of ‘paradise’. Alternatively, on the other side of the island, La Sagesse is something really special — a deserted, unspoiled secret cove with sparkling turquoise water — but shhh, don’t go telling everyone about this hidden gem…

AMOROUS ADVENTURE

It doesn’t take a seasoned adventurer to explore Grenada, although the island certainly caters for experienced trekkers. Visit the Annandale Waterfalls for a once in a lifetime romantic experience, swimming together in secluded rock pools enveloped by lush greenery, bright tropical flowers and cascading water. Whether by jeep, by boat or on foot, there are endless ways to explore this island’s rugged beauty.

Organised boat trips are a great way to see the sights, or more intrepid explorers can follow in the footsteps of the island’s earliest settlers by tramping the untamed mountain paths through an emerald jungle at the island’s centre, either with a guide or braving it on their own (puregrenada.com).

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BELOW THE WAVES

It doesn’t do to forget the underwater scenery.

Morne Rouge Beach is perfect for snorkelling; through crystal clear shallow waters you can view stunning coral reefs nuzzled by hundreds of tiny tropical fish. The island is also a yearround scuba diving destination. Its unique underwater sculpture park is a mesmerising scene on the ocean floor, where you can spot an army of silent statues blossoming with aquatic flora and fauna. There are around twenty shipwrecks dotted around, the most impressive of which is the Bianca C: one of the top ten wreck diving sites in the world and known as the ‘Titanic of the Caribbean’, there will be no experience quite like exploring this majestic sunken vessel. Look hard enough and you might spot some glinting treasure…

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THE MOST “ IMPRESSIVE DIVE

SITE NEARBY IS THE BIANCA C: A MAJESTIC SUNKEN VESSEL. ”

Destinations

TO FULLY IMMERSE “ YOURSELF IN GRENADIAN CULTURE, COINCIDE YOUR VISIT WITH ONE OF THE ISLAND’S FOOD AND MUSIC FESTIVALS.”

CARIBBEAN CULTURE

The Grenada market in St. George is well worth visiting. Saturday mornings are the best time to go; bursting with local colour and flavour, every kind of fruit and spice imaginable is spread out on rickety tables under colourful umbrellas. Or, if you want to fully immerse yourself in an explosion of Grenadian culture, coincide your visit with one of the island’s food and music festivals, such as the aptly named Spicemas (usually around the second week of August). Grenada also has a fascinating colonial past, which you can learn about at the National Museum in St. George’s. Or for a more hands on approach, take a literal step back into history by leaning over the atmospheric battlements of Fort George amongst the row of cannons pointing out to sea.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO THE PROCESS

To marry in Grenada, you’ll need to provide your passports, birth certificates and a notarised lawyer’s letter confirming you both have single status. Couples must reside in Grenada for a minimum of three days before the wedding.

PURE RELAXATION

After a day of immersing yourself in island culture, adventuring or soaking in the sun and sea, retreat back to the hotel and spend an evening in serene serendipity. Treat yourselves to a couple’s massage at the Asian Spa, or take advantage of complimentary daily yoga classes on the beachfront yoga pavilion to restore your inner peace and balance. Visit the resort’s intimate Italian restaurant, which provides the perfect, softly-lit ambience for a dreamy dinner with your beloved. Later, enjoy a mojito at their sunset bar as you watch the sun melt into the horizon. Alternatively, simply close your eyes and sink into true serenity, listening to the sound of softly breaking Grenadian waves whilst basking in the bliss of newly married life (Seven night honeymoon packages start from £3078, laluna.com).

WEATHER

Grenada has a tropical climate; the dry season, which runs from January to April, is the best time to visit. July tends to be the hottest month and November the wettest.

The temperature is always high, rarely dropping below 24°C.

VACCINATIONS

No vaccinations are necessary for visiting Grenada. Although a malaria free zone, steps should be taken to avoid mosquito bites.

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ALPINE

Destinations

BE MINE

White weddings take on a whole new meaning — with snow-capped mountains, lush lakes and thrilling activities galore, it’s no wonder the Alpine regions are a firm favourite all year round!

PRIVATE SELECTION HOTELS

MUTLIPLE EUROPEAN LOCATIONS

Private Selection Hotels represent an abundance of luxurious resorts all over Europe, and with this trusted level of grandeur, it comes as no surprise that they know how to create the perfect, personalised honeymoon. Working with the motto, “happy is who can make others happy”, the memories made in one of these hotels will be some of the happiest of your life!

Nestled in some of the most beautiful locations in Europe, they offer a range of 4 and 5-star hotels for a getaway that is guaranteed to be unforgettable. From the classically romantic corners of France to the adventurous highs of Switzerland; from the cultural luxuries of Germany to the gastronomic delights of Italy; whichever destination you choose, your honeymoon with Private Selection Hotels will ensure you are blissfully charmed and completely disarmed of any stress. Spoil yourself and your loved one with a day spa visit and experience the benefits of sheer relaxation.

Many of the hotels are Wellness Hotels; offering a vast selection of treatments and facilities, your health and happiness are absolutely paramount. What’s more, the astounding alpine surroundings allow for an array of natural treats, guaranteed to send you into a euphoric state of peace and tranquility. After winding down from your romantic whirlwind, refuel with a spot of gourmet dining at one of the many specialty restaurants, where you are promised light hearted and healthy indulgence.

A winning combination of passion, pampering and privacy come together in the hotels’ honeymoon special, with on-hand consultants making sure every need and desire are catered to. With each hotel pledging personalised charm, they all aim to make your holiday extra special. From gorgeously furnished bars to satisfy your après-ski wishes, to stunning suites for you to retire to at the end of your dreamy days in the sun, and everything in between, Private Selection Hotels offer all you need for the ultimate romantic holiday.

These pick of hotels will provide you with the best escape possible — your only struggle will be choosing just one! (privateselection.ch/en)

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S

tretching to unimaginable heights across eight fascinating countries, the Alpine mountain range is an ideal destination for both a white winter wedding and a scenic honeymoon escape. Boasting some of the best ski resorts and scenery in the world, Europe offers the ultimate Alpine experience — and all a stone’s throw away from the UK!

“ KICK BACK WITH

A CRACKLING FIRE AND INDULGE IN SOME SWISS CHEESE AND CHOCOLATE. ”

Austria is another classic Alpine escape, The Swiss Alps cover an overwhelming known for its sensational mountainous percentage of Switzerland, and make for a terrain (only 30% of the picture-perfect glacial country stands below getaway.

If you’re KITZBÜHEL IS looking for a ski resort DESCRIBED BY NATIONAL 500 metres!) and quaint snow-capped villages. that is both sensational GEOGRAPHIC AS ONE OF One of these is the charming and cosmopolitan then Kitzbühel, a town described a good bet would be THE BEST SKIING TOWNS

by National Geographic Grindelwald, one of IN THE WORLD. as one of the best ski only twelve prestigious resorts in the world! Stay at The Grand destinations in the ‘Best of the Alps’ Tirolia, a luxurious resort tucked right into association. There is no doubt you will the awe-inspiring scenery and just far enough be mesmerised merely by the incredible away from busy swarms of tourists. The natural beauty and staggering stature of the hotel’s décor is traditionally Austrian but landscape, but be sure to take advantage of implemented with modern style, making it a the many activities on offer! Some of the cosy winter escape for sophisticated couples; highest mountains reside here, such as the it even offers an indulgent spa and a worldMonte Rosa and the Matterhorn, and whilst class golf course if skiing isn’t quite enough skiing and snowboarding are the obvious for you! At this perfect Alpine destination you choices for thrill-seekers you can also leave will feel truly cut off from the world. Wrapped your footprints in the snow with a spot of up and cosy with your partner, gaze out at the hiking in warmer months. After a day on the majestic Tyrolean Mountains stretching into slopes, kick back with a crackling fire and the distance and contemplate your new life indulge in some Swiss cheese and chocolate together! (grand-tirolia.com/en) — it tastes better here, we promise.

“

”

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“ GAZE OUT AT THE

MAJESTIC TYROLEAN MOUNTAINS STRETCHING INTO THE DISTANCE AND CONTEMPLATE YOUR NEW LIFE TOGETHER! ”

Destinations

ARBER BERGBAHN HOTEL

BAVARIA, GERMANY

For a romantically remote retreat, head to the Arber Bergbahn; an authentic German resort located on the highest mountain in the Bavarian Forest. One half of the venue, the Eisensteiner Hütte, is home to the highest registry office in the whole forest, so the high of cloud nine will feel a whole lot closer when you say ‘I do’. With a stunning 240-seat outdoor terrace that is perfect in warmer months, celebrations here are not just a winter’s tale! A snowcapped bavarian landscape might be the classic Alpine dream, but summer months can also provide an idyllic setting. With a veil of mist draped over the mountains and the sun glinting over the pine trees, you will feel lost in your own Alpine fairy tale.

Next door, a mountain lodge awaits in the Arberschutzhaus. You will be greeted with cosy, traditional Bavarian-style interiors for you and your guests to relax in, and spoiled with a choice of three restaurants serving delicious food, and radiating an atmospheric ambience with crackling open fires. Its 12 lodge-style rooms are perfect for your guests, but be sure to ask for Honeymoon Room No.7 when booking for the ultimate newlywed treat; this room comes complete with a large four-poster bed and a twinkling ceiling of stars!

Of course, nothing beats the beauty of genuine stargazing, and certain months allow for a gorgeous floodlit-skiing experience. For a little slower but still exhilarating pace, you and your loved one can go tobogganing together, or even venture out on hiking trails in both summer and winter, to explore these breathtaking, rugged landscapes first-hand. You can even live your own Cinderella moment; replace glass slippers with glaciers and climb aboard the horse-and-gondola carriage, pulling you up the slopes and into wedded bliss! Full of Alpine clichés yet providing a modern twist to your fairy tale, a wedding at the Arber Bergbahn is sure to astound you (hochzeit.arber.de/en/your-dream-wedding).

PLANNING

IN THIS SECTION

2016 panama diary with silver pencil, Smythsons luxury leather note book, at smythsons.com Photography by Angie Cropper

228 A day in the life of a Wedding Photographer 236 Competition: Win a luxury holiday!

237 Know Before You Go: The definitive guide for every destination bride 268 Wedding countdown 274 #Inspiration: Our swoon-worthy selection of inspirational photographs

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A

WEDDING

PHOTOGRAPHER

New York-based photographer Wolfgang Friethof, co-founder of A Day of Bliss Photography Inc., gives us an exclusive insight into his work and passion.

Tango themed wedding in Argentina, the Honduran President for his son’s wedding in Cayos Cochinos and San Pedro Sula.

IT’S A PRIVILEGE TO CAPTURE LOVE WITH OUR CAMERAS AND CREATE SPECIAL MEMORIES.” 228

PLEASE TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF; HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER? I have been a New York high fashion photographer for over 25 years and Chiaki Sato, my partner, has more than 15 years experience in the business. Together we founded the highly sought after New York based wedding company “A Day of Bliss Photography Inc.” We have since shot weddings worldwide. European destinations are familiar settings for us (Paris, Venezia, Firenze and Vienna just to name a few), but we have travelled as far as Tokyo at brides requests. Our clients include Academy Award Winner Robert Duvall for his Ma y / J u n e

WHAT IS YOUR APPROACH TO SHOOTING WEDDINGS; DO YOU HAVE A PARTICULAR PHILOSOPHY? Every wedding is a high fashion event for us, and every detail matters. We enjoy creating timeless, memorable images full of emotion for the bride and groom to share and enjoy for a long time to come.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY? We deeply appreciate the cultural diversity that weddings offer, the fashion, beauty and joy. It’s a privilege to capture love with our cameras and create special memories.

Destinations

EVERY WEDDING IS A HIGH FASHION EVENT FOR US, AND EVERY DETAIL MATTERS. ” DO YOU EVER MEET WITH COUPLES BEFOREHAND? We enjoy meeting with every couple.

Sometimes it is in person and often via Skype or over the phone, but it always helps to get a personal impression while chatting about their wedding plans.

WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU DO WHEN YOU GET TO THE WEDDING VENUE? We always visit our wedding venues before the wedding day. We make sure to scout all areas for possible shooting locations and special decorations on the day of the event.

WE HAVE SHOT WEDDINGS WORLDWIDE IN LOCATIONS SUCH AS PARIS, VENEZIA, FIRENZE AND VIENNA. WE HAVE TRAVELLED AS FAR AS TOKYO AT A BRIDES REQUEST.”

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A SECLUDED CASTLE, A HIDDEN BEACH, A MOUNTAINTOP, A SIMPLE BACKYARD OR A FANCY MANSION - WE WILL BE THERE..”

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PLEASE DESCRIBE YOUR TYPICAL WEDDING DAY ROUTINE AS THE PHOTOGRAPHER. We approach every wedding as an unique occasion. Every couple is special with their own ideas and style for their big day. We capture that for them. Many times a random situation develops into a special photographic opportunity, so we keep our hearts and minds open.

DO YOU EVER RUN INTO ANY CONFLICTS WITH CLIENTS; IF SO HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH THESE? We have not experienced conflicts with clients on their wedding day, our philosophy is that this day is one of the most important days of our client’s lives and we are there to make it a special memory and experience for them. Our only aim is to provide the best possible work we can with the resources we have.

Planning

Did you know The most important element in my photography is without a doubt the couple. If the couple feel uncomfortable, you can’t take a good picture at all.

WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE WEDDING DESTINATION? Anywhere we find love and happiness, the world is our oyster. A secluded castle, a hidden beach, a mountaintop, a simple backyard or a fancy mansion, we will be there.

DO YOU HAVE ANY FAVOURITE WEDDINGS; IF SO CAN YOU TELL US WHAT MADE THEM SO SPECIAL? A couple of weddings in Mexico. Punta Mita at “Casa de Amore,” for the special interior design; Rosewood Mayakoba on the Riviera Maya was also a very unique and memorable location. In Honduras, we were given shooting options of uninhabited nature preserve islands by the President’s son for their portrait session. Above all, we shot a wedding in New York where everything was just perfect - the couple, the gown, the weather and everything else you could imagine it all fell into place .

OUR PHILOSOPHY IS THAT THIS DAY IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT DAYS OF OUR CLIENT’S LIVES AND WE ARE THERE TO MAKE IT A SPECIAL EXPERIENCE FOR THEM.” w w w. d w ha . co . u k

23 1

Readerion Competit

WIN! A 7-NIGHT HONEYMOON OF YOUR DREAMS!

7 night stay in a Premier Room at the exclusive Ocean Wing of Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort & Spa. Prize includes; a mangrove river cruise, complimentary use of non-motorised water sports and return airport transfers...

Y

our escape to this tropical paradise will provide you with the exclusive benefits of an Ocean Wing guest. You will be staying in a Premier Room, fully equipped with luxury amenities, including an oversized outdoor bathtub on a gorgeous balcony that overlooks the South China Sea. A private transfer will bring you to the glorious retreat, where you will be treated to a reserved breakfast venue in the buzzing Oceano Italian Restaurant; not to mention access to a private beachfront Jacuzzi and swimming pool.

If you can tear yourself away from the comforts of your room, your stay will also include a personalised itinerary of signature resort experiences — your memories are guaranteed to be even more unforgettable with a relaxing couple’s trip to the on-site spa, a lively round of golf at the resort’s Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club, or a nightcap at the Sampan Bar to watch the sun dip into the horizon. Unwind at the end of your days with a culinary treat from one of several inspired restaurants, and reflect on your new life together in indulgent tranquility.

How you choose to spend your time on this untouched coastline is up to you, but the Rasa Ria Resort & Spa guarantees a honeymoon that will awaken a sense of adventure, passion and excitement.

HOW TO ENTER

For your chance to win, go to our website and simply answer the question below:

YOUR PRIZE: • Premier room with sea-view balcony • Private transfer • Exclusive breakfast location • Deluxe welcome in-room amenities

Q.In which continent is Borneo located??* A. Africa B. Asia C. Europe Enter now: dwha.co.uk/competition

*Answer availiable at en.terre-blanche.com

Terms and Conditions: Valid for stay between 1 April and 1 December 2016 Accommodation dates are not valid during peak season and subject to room availability Extended stay dates will be charged at best available rate Prize is valid for 2 adults only, additional travellers will be charged at best available rate No cash alternative will be offered.

The prize(s) described are available at the date of publication. No purchase of the magazine is necessary and no more than one entry per household. Competitions open to UK residents only aged 18 and over. Full rules, terms and conditions are available at dwha.co.uk Please note: Flights are not included. Date of stay is subject to availability at an off-peak time.

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KNOW

BEFORE YOU GO! A smart guide to some of our featured destinations.

For a full list please check out dwha.co.uk

D ON’T .

FORGE T..

• • Return tickets • Passports with at least six • months validity • Birth certificates • Deed poll (if name changed) • Death certificate (if widowed) • Four additional passport photos • Apostille stamp on appropriate • documents (for certification) • Certificate of No Impediment • (CNI) or Affidavit of Single Status • Certified translation of all documents (if applicable) The above should be treated as a guide, rather than definitive advice. Marriage laws are subject to change. For the avoidence of doubt please seek further advice from the embassy or local registry office of your destination.

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BERMUDA FLIGHT TIME: 7 ½ Hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, notice of intended marriage, decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), marriage licence, copy of front and back of payment card, deed poll (if name changed) RESIDENCY: None required WAITING PERIOD: 15 days MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Hepatitis B, Tetanus (to consider) AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: bdalondonoffice.co.uk TOURIST INFO: 00 441 297 7709, gotobermuda.com

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CYPRUS FLIGHT TIME: 4 ½ hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, decree absolute (if divorced), adoption certificate (if applicable), deed poll (if name changed), statutory declaration of freedom to marry, death certificate (if widowed), check with municipality to confirm any additional documents required RESIDENCY: Dependent, please check with municipality WAITING PERIOD: Dependent, please check with municipality MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7321 4100, mfa.gov.cy TOURIST INFO: 020 7321 4183, visitcyprus.com

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FRENCH RIVIERA FLIGHT TIME: 2 hours to Marseille DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if name changed), prenuptial medical certificate, certificate of custom law, certificate of celibacy/CNI (translated into French), proof of residence (in France), check with relevant Town Hall to confirm any additional documents required RESIDENCY: 40 days (check with Mayor of relevant Town Hall) WAITING PERIOD: At least 10 days for marriage banns (check with Mayor of relevant Town Hall) MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7073 1000, ambafrance-uk.org TOURIST INFO: uk.rendevousenfrance.com

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GIBRALTAR FLIGHT TIME: 2 ½ hours DOCUMENTS: Passport or National Identity card, birth certificate, previous marriage certificate and death certificate (if widowed) or decree absolute (if divorced), deed poll (if name changed), affidavit of civil status signed before a Commissioner of Oaths or a Notary Public in Gibraltar, documentary evidence of Gibraltar residence at least 1 night immediately before or after the ceremony, check with Registrar about additional documents required RESIDENCY: 1 night’s stay before or after ceremony required with proof WAITING PERIOD: 1 day with special licence MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Hepatitis B, Tetanus (to consider) AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No (civil partnership possible) EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: gibraltar.gov.uk/london TOURIST INFO: visitgibraltar.gi

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GREECE KOS FLIGHT TIME: 3 hours DOCUMENTS: Birth certificate, passport, CNI, Apostille stamps (on all required documents), decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if wounded), dead poll (if name changed). Application must be sent to Consular Office, marriage licence (can only be obtained from where the ceremony takes place). (All documents need to be translated into Greek, then forwarded to the Greek Consulate.)

RESIDENCY: None required WAITING PERIOD: 7 Days MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None Required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 0207 313 5600, greekembassy.org.uk TOURIST INFO: gtp.gr

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ITALY EMILIA ROMANA FLIGHT TIME: 2 hours DOCUMENTS: Birth certificate, passport, CNI, decree absolute (if divorced, must wait 300 days after the end of the last marriage), death certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if name changed), adoption papers (if applicable), certified Italian translations of all documents RESIDENCY: 2 - 4 days prior to ceremony WAITING PERIOD: 6 Months MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7312 2200, amblondra.esteri.it TOURIST INFO: 020 7408 1254, www.emiliaromagnaturismo.it/en

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ITALY LAKE COMO FLIGHT TIME: 2 hours DOCUMENTS: Birth certificate, passport, CNI, decree absolute (if divorced, must wait 300 days after the end of the last marriage), death certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if name changed), adoption papers (if applicable), certified Italian translations of all documents RESIDENCY: 2 - 4 days prior to ceremony WAITING PERIOD: 6 Months MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7312 2200, amblondra.esteri.it TOURIST INFO: 020 7408 1254, discovercomo.com

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ITALY LAKE ORTA FLIGHT TIME: 2 hours DOCUMENTS: Birth certificate, passport, CNI, decree absolute (if divorced, must wait 300 days after the end of the last marriage), death certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if name changed), adoption papers (if applicable), certified Italian translations of all documents RESIDENCY: 2 - 4 days prior to ceremony WAITING PERIOD: 6 Months MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7312 2200, amblondra.esteri.it TOURIST INFO: 020 7408 1254, www.orta.net/tourist_info tourist office / info office in orta (0039) 0322 90155

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ITALY LIGURIAN RIVIERA FLIGHT TIME: 2 hours DOCUMENTS: Birth certificate, passport, CNI decree absolute (if divorced, must wait 300 days after the end of the last marriage), death certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if name changed), adoption papers (if applicable), certified Italian transations of all documents.

RESIDENCY: 2-4 days prior to ceremony WAITING PERIOD: 6 months MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7312 2200, amblondra.esteri.it TOURIST INFO: 020 7408 1254, www.turismoinliguria.it/en/

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ITALY MILAN FLIGHT TIME: 2 hours DOCUMENTS: Birth certificate, passport, CNI, decree absolute (if divorced, must wait 300 days after the end of the last marriage), death certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if name changed), adoption papers (if applicable), certified Italian translations of all documents RESIDENCY: 2 - 4 days prior to ceremony WAITING PERIOD: 6 Months MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7312 2200, amblondra.esteri.it TOURIST INFO: 020 7408 1254, www.turismo.milano.it

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ITALY PIEDMONT FLIGHT TIME: 2 hours DOCUMENTS: Birth certificate, passport, CNI, decree absolute (if divorced, must wait 300 days after the end of the last marriage), death certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if name changed), adoption papers (if applicable), certified Italian translations of all documents RESIDENCY: 2 - 4 days prior to ceremony WAITING PERIOD: 6 Months MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7312 2200, amblondra.esteri.it TOURIST INFO: 020 7408 1254, www.italia.it/en/ discover-italy/piedmont.html • www.piemonteitalia.eu

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ITALY PUGLIA FLIGHT TIME: 2 hours DOCUMENTS: Birth certificate, passport, CNI decree absolute (if divorced, must wait 300 days after the end of the last marriage), death certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if name changed), adoption papers (if applicable), certified Italian transations of all documents.

RESIDENCY: 2-4 days prior to ceremony WAITING PERIOD: 6 months MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7312 2200, amblondra.esteri.it TOURIST INFO: 020 7408 1254, www.viaggiareinpuglia.it/hp/en

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ITALY ROME FLIGHT TIME: 2 hours DOCUMENTS: Birth certificate, passport, CNI decree absolute (if divorced, must wait 300 days after the end of the last marriage), death certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if name changed), adoption papers (if applicable), certified Italian transations of all documents.

RESIDENCY: 2-4 days prior to ceremony WAITING PERIOD: 6 months MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7312 2200, amblondra.esteri.it TOURIST INFO: 020 7408 1254, www.turismoroma.it

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ITALY TUSCANY FLIGHT TIME: 2 hours DOCUMENTS: Birth certificate, passport, CNI, decree absolute (if divorced, must wait 300 days after the end of the last marriage), death certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if name changed), adoption papers (if applicable), certified Italian translations of all documents RESIDENCY: 2 - 4 days prior to ceremony WAITING PERIOD: 6 Months MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7312 2200, amblondra.esteri.it TOURIST INFO: 020 7408 1254, discovertuscany.com

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ITALY UMBRIA FLIGHT TIME: 2 hours DOCUMENTS: Birth certificate, passport, CNI, decree absolute (if divorced, must wait 300 days after the end of the last marriage), death certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if name changed), adoption papers (if applicable), certified Italian translations of all documents RESIDENCY: 2 - 4 days prior to ceremony WAITING PERIOD: 6 Months MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7312 2200, amblondra.esteri.it TOURIST INFO: 020 7408 1254, www.umbriatourism.it

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ITALY VENICE FLIGHT TIME: 2 hours DOCUMENTS: Birth certificate, passport, CNI, decree absolute (if divorced, must wait 300 days after the end of the last marriage), death certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if name changed), adoption papers (if applicable), certified Italian translations of all documents RESIDENCY: 2 - 4 days prior to ceremony WAITING PERIOD: 6 Months MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7312 2200, amblondra.esteri.it TOURIST INFO: 020 7408 1254, visit-venice-italy.com

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ITALY VERONA FLIGHT TIME: 2 DOCUMENTS: Birth certificate, passport, CNI decree absolute (if divorced, must wait 300 days after the end of the last marriage), death certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if name changed), adoption papers (if applicable), certified Italian transations of all documents.

RESIDENCY: 2-4 days prior to ceremony WAITING PERIOD: 6 months MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7312 2200, amblondra.esteri.it TOURIST INFO: 020 7408 1254, italianweddingevent.com

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JAMAICA FLIGHT TIME: 10 hours DOCUMENTS: Certified copy of birth certificate (including father’s name), passport, decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), marriage licence (application to be made to Ministry of Justice beforehand, can take four weeks to process), affidavit of single status, adoption certificate (if adopted), deed poll (if name changed), relevant documents must have an apostille stamp RESIDENCY: 24 hours WAITING PERIOD: 24 hours MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Yellow Fever (certificate required depending on risk), Hepatitis A (recommended), Diptheria, Tetanus (to consider) AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 0207 823 9911, jhcuk.org TOURIST INFO: visitjamaica.com

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MALAYSIA FLIGHT TIME: 13 ½ hours DOCUMENTS: Birth certificate, passport (photocopy of page with date of arrival), colour photographs against a blue background, decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if name changed), adoption papers (if applicable) RESIDENCY: 7 days WAITING PERIOD: 21 days MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Yellow Fever (certificate required depending on risk), Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus (recommended) AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7235 8033, www.kln.gov.my TOURIST INFO: 020 7930 7932, tourism.gov.my

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MALTA FLIGHT TIME: 3 hours DOCUMENTS: Birth certificate, passport, third party declaration, apostille stamps, decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if name changed), adoption papers (if applicable) RESIDENCY: 2 days (wedding couple is required to meet the Marriage Registrar in Valetta) WAITING PERIOD: 6 weeks but no more than 3 months notice required MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Yellow Fever (certificate required depending on risk) SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No (civil unions available) AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 EMBASSY/COSULATE IN UK: 020 7292 4800, foreign.gov.mt TOURIST INFO: +356 22915000, visitmalta.com

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PORTUGAL FLIGHT TIME: 2 ½ hours DOCUMENTS: Passport (with proof of residence), birth certificate, CNI, decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), adoption certificate (if applicable), deed poll (if name changed), all documents must be translated into Portuguese and must be certified by one of the Portuguese Consulates in the UK RESIDENCY: None required WAITING PERIOD: None MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGES: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7235 5331, portuguese-embassy.co.uk TOURIST INFO: visitportugal.com

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PORTUGAL ALGARVE FLIGHT TIME: 2 ½ hours DOCUMENTS: Passport (with proof of residence), birth certificate, CNI, decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), adoption certificate (if applicable), deed poll (if name changed), all documents must be translated into Portuguese and must be certified by one of the Portuguese Consulates in the UK RESIDENCY: None required WAITING PERIOD: None MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGES: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7235 5331, portuguese-embassy.co.uk TOURIST INFO: visitportugal.com

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PORTUGAL MADEIRA FLIGHT TIME: 4 hours DOCUMENTS: Passport (with proof of residence), birth certificate, CNI, decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), adoption certificate (if applicable), deed poll (if name changed), all documents must be translated into Portuguese and must be certified by one of the Portuguese Consulates in the UK RESIDENCY: None required WAITING PERIOD: None MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: None required AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGES: Yes EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7235 5331, portuguese-embassy.co.uk TOURIST INFO: visitportugal.com

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SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS FLIGHT TIME: 10 hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, affidavit of single status (if never married), decree absolute (if divorced), certified copy of death certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if name changed), marriage licence application form witnessed by justice of the peace RESIDENCY: None required WAITING PERIOD: None required MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Yellow Fever certificate (if applicable), Tetanus (to consider) AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: stkittsnevisuk.com TOURIST INFO: stkittstourism.kn

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TRINIDAD & TOBAGO FLIGHT TIME: 9 hours, 20 mins DOCUMENTS: Contact the Registrar General Office before giving notice of marriage, permisson to marry, evidence of identity, proof of address (e.g utility bill), original decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate (if widowed), certain documents must be notarised RESIDENCY: 3 days WAITING PERIOD: 7 days MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Yellow Fever certificate (if applicable), Diptheria, Tetanus AGE REQUIREMENTS: 18 SAME-SEX MARRIAGE: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: 020 7245 9351, tthighcommission.co.uk TOURIST INFO: gotrinidadandtobago.com

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TURKS & CAICOS FLIGHT TIME: 12 hours DOCUMENTS: Passport, birth certificate, CNI, affidavit of single status, decree absolute (if divorced), death certificate and previous marriage certificate (if widowed), deed poll (if name changed), adoption certificate (if adopted), two declaration forms, application form for special licence, copy of TCI immigration arrival and departure stamp, letter stating occupations, father’s names, ages at last birthday, martital status and addresses, application made at Registrar’s Office in Grand Turk RESIDENCY: 1 - 2 days, please check with civil registry WAITING PERIOD: 3 days MEDICAL VACCINATIONS: Hepatitus B, Tetanus (to consider) AGE REQUIREMENTS: 21 SAME-SEX MARRIAGES: No EMBASSY/CONSULATE IN UK: see tourist board for information (British Overseas Territory) TOURIST INFO: turksandcaicostourism.com

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J a n u a r y / Fe b r u a r y

KnowWorldwide Before You Tours Go

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photos by: Beau Petersen Photography

WEDDING COUNTDOWN GET THE IDEAS FLOWING

12-18 MONTHS TO GO

WHAT WOULD YOUR IDEAL WEDDING BE LIKE? Create a scrapbook, or a mood board on pinterest.com CONSIDER YOUR BUDGET and talk to a travel agent. They’ll be able to give an idea of costs, and perhaps offer up alternative ideas if your ideas and budget don’t tally.

IS HAVING FAMILY and certain guests at your wedding important to you? Discuss the idea of a destination wedding with them.

FOUND A PLACE? Contact hotels and reception venues now, as some may be booked up two years in advance! Weigh up details like availability, cost, guest capacity, location and outdoor spaces.

THINK ABOUT BOOKING a photographer and a wedding planner. A local planner will know regional suppliers and could get discounts. Good communication is key. Someone fluent in English will save you any extra hassle.

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WRITE THE FIRST DRAFT of your guest list. Choose your best man and bridesmaids, and list details in two places (your phone and a separate journal). It’s all too easy to lose one or the other.

CONTACT FOREIGN EMBASSIES to check legal requirements and time frames for legalities. Our Know Before You Go Guide (p.219) is a great starting point.

IF YOU DISCOVER THAT MARRYING LEGALLY in your dream destination is logistically difficult, consider having a registry office marriage in the UK before or after having a symbolic ceremony abroad.

BE PREPARED

10 MONTHS TO GO

TRY ON DRESSES. Keep an open mind to new styles and suggestions — you never know what it will look like until it’s on. Remember to take the weather into account!

ENSURE THE CATERER, PHOTOGRAPHER, FLORIST AND ENTERTAINMENT ARE BOOKED. Choose an officiant and start planning the service, the music and your vows.

SEND ‘SAVE THE DATE’ CARDS to your guests explaining you’re having a wedding abroad. Speak to guests to weigh up attendance numbers.

DO YOU NEED BLOOD TESTS OR MEDICAL CERTIFICATES? Check with your GP. It’s more likely in the Southern Hemisphere.

RESEARCHING FLIGHTS now will help guests decide if they can come.

Price comparison websites come in handy!

RESEARCH wedding and travel insurance — just in case.

INVESTIGATE ACCOMMODATION options for guests with varying

Ma y / J u n e

GO ONLINE

FINAL BITS

9 MONTHS TO GO

1-2 MONTHS TO GO

Build a website with links to the venue and places to stay. A simple Wordpress website can keep guests in the know, or try a quick and easy app, like ‘Appy Couple, where you can see RSVPs, upload photos and message guests.

Arrange your stag and hen parties!

You deserve a break!

BEGIN TO REGISTER FOR GIFTS at your favourite store, or create a honeymoon registry online (try honeyfund.co.uk). Be mindful that some guests may not have access to the internet, so post details too.

HAVING A SEPARATE HONEYMOON after your destination wedding? Start planning where you’d like to go!

ORDER place cards and menus, invitations and envelopes.

DRESS UP

8 MONTHS TO GO

If your dress isn’t already ordered, do it now! Allow at least six months for a made-to-measure gown to be delivered.

Choose bridesmaids’ dresses now too.

If they haven’t had a browse yet, your groom can start looking at suits for him and his groomsmen.

BOOKING

6 MONTHS TO GO

GETTING CLOSER! Order your wedding rings and check you have valid passports and visas. Also if you haven’t already, confirm with the local civil registry exactly which documents you’ll need to bring with you.

SEND OUT THE INVITATIONS! Around 2-3 months should be enough, but give more time for trickier destinations. Don’t forget extra information such as menus, maps and itineraries!

BUY OR RESERVE the groom’s wedding outfit.

START BOOKING ACCOMMODATION and airfares — unless you already have.

If your date is during peak tourist season or a national event, book early — and to notify guests to do so if they’re booking their own. Provide a choice for guests by researching hotels and deals.

TIME TO SHOP FOR WEDDING ACCESSORIES — shoes, jewellery, headpieces, resort wear, décor and other little trinkets, such as your cake topper, guestbook and ‘thank you’ gifts for your bridesmaids.

BUY OR MAKE your wedding favours.

It can be something to capture the spirit of your wedding, and has to be easily transportable!

Planning

Book any pre-wedding colour and hair appointments, as well as any other beauty treatments. Don’t forget about bra fittings!

Have your final gown fitting complete with lingerie and accessories. Find out the best way to travel with your dress on your specific airline.

Assign wedding weekend tasks to trusted friends and family members.

DOUBLE CHECK

2 WEEKS TO GO

Review all the details you agreed upon with your wedding planner, caterer, photographer, videographer, florist, musicians and any other suppliers involved in the wedding events. Discuss special requests with the resort or hotel entertainment if you are able to.

DOUBLE-CHECK AND CONFIRM your travel bookings, and research the time it takes upon arrival to gather important documents (such as a marriage licence) — you’ll already have checked which are relevant to your destination.

Put together a seating chart if needed and double-check the place cards and seating arrangements.

Order foreign currency if needed.

Go on your hen and stag parties — you deserve it after all this hard work!

ON ARRIVAL CONFIRM ALL YOUR DETAILS with your planner and officiant, and apply for a marriage licence from the local town hall or registry office if necessary.

INSPECT CEREMONY and reception sites for peace of mind, making sure everything is as you want it for your big day.

THE WEDDING DAY w w w. d w ha . co . u k

Your day is finally here!

Relax and enjoy it…

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Personalise your wedding invitations with these gorgeous designs!

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Get social

Love your copy of DWHA? Don’t forget to take a pic of it and tag us at @DWHAmagazine

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A bride deserves to feel her best on her wedding day. Pamper yourself with these body creams and scents Ma y / J u n e

@the_mrs_box

This limited edition heirloom ring box is both classic and timeless