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2015
CONTENTS fall/winter 2015
planning guide 13 INSPIRATION AISLE Carte Blanche Weddings Imagine hosting a wedding where you call ALL the shots! We reveal resorts that go the extra mile—and then some—to make every couple’s wishes come true. Five Gowns to Go We asked five fashion-house experts for their idea of the perfect destination wedding dress. 18 TIPS & TOOLS In Pursuit of the Perfect Planning Partner Destination Wedding Consultant Lisa Light unveils how to make the most of the planning process to save both time and money. Romance Unlimited Why a growing number of long-distance brides and grooms vow to go all-inclusive. 26 LOCATIONS TO LOVE Cabo Is Back, Better Than Ever Not even a hurricane could stop Los Cabos from returning as a top destination for faraway vows. We feature 10 Cabo resorts that are back, better than ever!
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26
36 REAL WEDDINGS Destination Love How five fabulous couples said forever in five distinctly different locations.
in every issue 10 NOTE FROM BEVERLY CLARK ON THE COVER Secrets Huatulco
Resort & Spa, an AMResorts property
36
48
resort collection The Fall/Winter 2015 guide to the world’s most romantic resorts and hotels for your destination wedding, honeymoon or trip for two.
50 NORTH AMERICA & HAWAII 58 CARIBBEAN 72 LATIN AMERICA
Courtesy of Excellence Group Luxury Hotels & Resorts, Hyatt Ziva, Sean Michael Hower
Six Spectacular Venues for Tying the Knot From Canada’s Ice Hotel and a stunning British palace to historic Guatemala and the exotic Belize Zoo, these venues will wow your vows.
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PH OTOG R AP H S WIT H SOUL
Isabelle Gullö-Abitia Isabelle@EliteWeddingCollection.com CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
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a note from
beverly clark
84
TRUE LOVE.
WHAT’S YOUR STORY?
16
Every bride and groom has a unique love story, from first date to
. “YOUR HEART IS FREE HAVE THE COUR AGE TO FOLLOW IT.”
– Malcolm Wallace
soulmate. The milestones along the way are precious: from first glance to first kiss, from becoming “an item” to becoming engaged. We may be biased, but, to us, nothing captures the milestone of marriage quite like a destination wedding. A wedding held away from home in an exotic, ultra-romantic setting allows the marriage milestone to be played out to its fullest. Saying “I do” surrounded by your nearest and dearest, opportunities for family and friends to bond in a way unlike any other. Much of this issue is dedicated to such love stories. Our “real wedding” feature (p. 36) explores how five couples tied the knot in their own ways, in five very different destinations. Inspiration Aisle (starting on p. 13) shows how you can custom design your dream event from start to finish. Then turn the page to read about designer wedding dresses created in such small quantities, you’ll feel as if your gown was made for you and you alone. Our Tips & Tools section (p. 18) helps you find a planner that fits your individual needs, plus resorts that may best suit your budget—and the budgets of your guests. In Love on Location (p. 26), we showcase six distinct wedding destinations—from England to Guatemala to India—and are excited to reveal what’s new and exciting in Los Cabos, where last year’s hurricane created an opportunity for the resorts to not only recover, but reinvent. As you’ll see, their comeback stories are nothing short of spectacular. When you’re ready to take the plunge or plan your honeymoon, the dozens of one-of-akind venues in the Elite Wedding Collection resort guide (starting on p. 48), provide some incredible options. So go ahead. Have fun planning the next milestone in your love story. With love,
10
Get inspired at WeddingLocation.com
Courtesy of Amy Kuschel, Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort, Alec & T. Photography
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planning guide
inspiration aisle
CARTE BLANCHE WEDDINGS BY ANNETTE BURDEN
Courtesy of Fontainebleau, Miami Beach
Not every resort suits the requirements of a carte blanche wedding—a wedding where the bride and groom call every shot, no matter how outrageous. But some venues specialize in going the distance—plus the extra mile—to make every wish come true.
Glitz and glam take center stage at Fontainebleau Miami Beach’s Island Cabana wedding venue.
Get inspired at WeddingLocation.com
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planning guide
inspiration aisle
Pronghorn On Pronghorn’s Event Island, feathered friends lend a touch of storybook magic to weddings.
Consider Pronghorn, a member of the Auberge Resorts Collection near Bend, Oregon. “We take every couple’s dream and make that a reality,” says Ashley Boyle, Pronghorn’s group sales manager. “Our setting gives them a beautiful blank canvas, and they can add as little or as much embellishment as they want.” Ashley describes one wedding that used two semi trucks full of trees, flowers and more to transform the clubhouse into a tropical rain forest. On another occasion, the best man for a fighter-pilot groom brought the rings to the ceremony via parachute. No request is too big—or detail too small. For an upcoming feast, the chef will prepare a side dish from the family’s heirloom green-bean recipe. Weddings take place at the clubhouse, clubhouse lawn and a
Gates of Heaven as a focal point. “Our resources are incredible,” says Roberta Annis, senior director of convention services and catering. “We have our
naturally landscaped island on the golf course. Unadorned, the
own fishing boat, gelato room, a huge team of pastry artists….
Event Island, as it’s called, comes only with a stone bridge and two
And we work with vendors who can get or manufacture anything.”
resident trumpeter swans. “The swans add a fairy-tale touch,”
Connections count. How many hotels can pick up the phone and
Ashley says. “And somehow, no matter how simple or elaborate
quickly secure a city permit for an elephant, the groom, and 200
the wedding, when our couples talk about it later, the word
guests to parade into the ceremony from the busy thoroughfare
magical always pops up.”
out front? That happened.
Another prime example, Fontainebleau Miami Beach, moves
The choices are infinite when you combine virtually any flight
heaven and earth for couples—literally, in some cases. Catering
of fancy with multiple ballrooms, courtyards, pool terraces and an
Service Manager Katie Bennett recalls one bride who turned a
oceanfront lawn. Roberta suggests that couples arrive at the
ballroom into “heaven.” She had it lined in white drapes, recar-
planning table with their budget and vision clear. What’s your first
peted in white and lit like a stage set. She even ordered a new
priority? The guest experience, the elephant, a white grand piano
dance floor (white, with monogram) and massive gold-painted
by the pool, juggling bartenders or an all-pink dessert menu?
PORTRAIT OF A WEDDING Couples have a fabulous new option for weddings at Mexico’s Grand Velas Riviera Maya and Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit resorts. Grand Velas recently partnered with painted weddings live, on the spot, for an elite clientele. Antología pairs you with an artist who paints in your style of choice, whether impressionist, expressionist, abstract or surrealist. You select the medium, too, either oil or acrylic, and the size of the canvas, and give the artist a general idea of the people and details you want to include (from $3,000, grandvelas.com). –AB
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Get inspired at WeddingLocation.com
Courtesy of Pronghorn, Luis de Potestad
Antología by Fornari, which, for more than ten years, has
planning guide
inspiration aisle
WHAT TO LOOK FOR Sasha Souza, one of the busiest and most influential wedding designers in the country, creates highly customized events for her clients, whether in a far-off land or close to her offices in LA, San Francisco and the Napa-Sonoma wine country. What does Sasha want from a resort? First, she says, it depends on what the client wants—beach, vineyard, whatever. “Beyond that, we look for a venue that has the flexibility to bring in decor and that gives us time to create a really striking event.” Because she often needs the day before or overnight for setup, the venue can’t be booked too tightly. “Further, if it’s in an area where the weather might require a plan B, the property needs to give us an idea of what that would be and reserve the spaces so we’re not scrambling at the last minute.” For more guidance and ideas, check out Sasha’s new book, Signature Sasha: Weddings and Celebrations to Inspire, available at Barnes & Noble, Amazon
(c) Damion Hamilton Photography / Sasha Souza Events
and some independent bookstores. –AB
Get inspired at WeddingLocation.com
15
PLANNING GUIDE
inspiration aisle
5 GOWNS TO GO You’ve covered the where, when, who, what, and how of your destination wedding. Now for the important part—The Dress. Footloose or formal? Sleeves or Strapless? Timeless or trendy? We asked the experts at five fashion houses—Ines Di Santo, Katie Fong, Igigi, Amy Kuschel and Celia Grace— for suggestions on finding the right gown to go this year.
Ines Di Santo I think of the destination bride as an adventurous bride, one who likes to travel and has a full life. She fills her time with experiences and people equally interested in living life to the fullest. This gown, Abigail, celebrates everything that’s feminine about her— what’s exposed and what’s covered. The unusual necklace not only creates a beautiful back view but also draws attention to the neck and shoulders. —Designer Ines Di Santo
Katie Fong I’ve always envisioned this look on a bride getting married on the beach. The Celia skirt and top’s two pieces definitely allow for more comfort and ease, and the fabric is linen based with silver Lurex threads that would glisten beautifully in the sunlight. Also, the lining is miniskirt length, so you can see a hint of leg under the skirt. It’s classic and clean, yet fun and alluring. —Designer Katie Fong
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Get inspired at WeddingLocation.com
PLANNING GUIDE
inspiration aisle
Amy Kuschel When I think of this gown, Avedon, I think iconic style. I can see it for a wedding in Tuscany, glamour on the beach in St. Barts or chic sophistication in San Francisco. We use four-ply silk crepe to create a sheath silhouette that moves with sensuality and soul, then add beaded cap shoulders for intrigue and a rock-‘n’-roll edginess. You can order it in silk or synthetic crepe, embellished with appliqué or not. —Designer Amy Kuschel
Celia Grace Here’s something you can wear all day and then dance the night away in. It’s 100 percent fair trade, made of silk with a cotton liner that’s
IGIGI
incredibly comfortable
This is White Diamonds, a dress whose neckline is
packs like a dream and
universally flattering for our plus-size clients. It’s
is ready to go with just
ideal for a destination wedding—airy, breezy,
a light steaming. The
ethereal. But maybe best of all, you don’t have to
open back is very on
wear anything hot and heavy underneath. The
trend. And don’t you love
back’s just high enough and the straps wide
how the ruffles look like
enough to wear your favorite everyday undergar-
falling water? It comes
ments. Then, of course, the rhinestone and crystal
in petal pink as well. —
accents have the same sparkle as the beach. —
Owner Marcie Muehlke
to wear. The Isabel gown
Creative Director Erena Shklovsky
Get inspired at WeddingLocation.com
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PLANNING GUIDE
tips & tools
IN PURSUIT OF THE
PERFECT PLANNING PARTNER Destination-wedding expert Lisa Light of Destination Bride (destinationbride.com) has a reputation for not only meeting clients expectations for the big day, but exceeding them. Light, who recently started her own consulting business after years of hands-on planning, shares how someone in her role can help destination-wedding couples sort through the world of options—and save them time and money in the process. –Isabelle Gullö-Abitia
EWC: How’s your role as a destination wedding consultant different from that of an event planner? LL: We focus on the first steps in wedding planning, which include the initial consultation, planning a budget, coordinating a schedule, finding the venues, and introducing the couples to the best planner at their chosen destination. We listen to their vision, share our inspiration and what we know about amazing options around up with a budget and plan for how they can make their wildest dreams a reality. Plus, we negotiate the contracts and book the venues.
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Get inspired at WeddingLocation.com
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the world, and then set them
PLANNING GUIDE
tips & tools
EWC: What’s the process of working with a consultant like? LL: The first step is to set up a half-hour, complimentary interview so we can learn about the couple’s vision. Next is a 90-minute, $150 consultation, which touches on some ideas and gives the couple some destination and venue suggestions. Or, if they want us to do more research on availability and pricing and put together a scouting trip and contracts, they would book us for a location finding package for $1,500.
EWC: You work with many vetted planners and can easily connect a bride with the right professional. If a bride is on her own, what key points should she focus on when looking for a planner? LL: Here are a few things I suggest researching:
•
Is the planner well-established, experienced and able to provide great references and reviews? Always ask for references!
•
Is the person pleasant, fun to work with and passionate about planning weddings?
•
Is he/she certified and insured according to local laws? What about the company’s cancellation policy and guarantee of service?
• EWC: How do destination couples benefit from working
weekend or day?
•
the hours spent researching, and money because, much like a travel agent, consultants are paid primar-
Will the same person who plans the wedding with you be the one to coordinate the event, and will the principal planner be
with a consultant? LL: It saves them time as it reduces
How many weddings is the company in charge of on a given
at your wedding?
• •
What’s the backup plan if the coordinator is sick or hurt? Do they have professional marketing materials, website and contract? And are they prompt and clear when communicating?
ily by the affiliates that they book: the venues, resorts and planners. EWC: Tell us more about the “location finding package.” LL: We generate a list of venues for the couple to look at online and give us feedback on. They pick the
1 Choose a date that works for you and the most important people in your lives. 2 Decide how far you want to go or how far your loved ones can go and how much they can spend.
places they would like to visit, or if
3 Consider the weather in locations that have some
they are not able to go, we can go
personal connection to you—or that you’ve always
in their stead, or we skip right to
wanted to explore together. Choose the one with the
the contract negotiation phase.
best seasonal weather for your selected date.
We search one destination per
4 Nail down your top three priorities and make sure
package and negotiate the
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Five tips to get you started
your destination and venue options meet all of those
couple’s top two wedding venues
wishes. Budget? Outdoor ceremony? Great food?
and top three lodging choices.
And can the party go on past midnight?
We introduce them to our affiliate
5 Does your dream location allow foreigners to be
planners at the destination early on so that they, too, can give input on venues and get to know
married there? If not, wed legally at home and celebrate your I dos at the destination.
the couple.
Get inspired at WeddingLocation.com
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planning guide
tips & tools
ROMANCE UNLIMITED
MEET THE THE NEW NEW BREED BREED OF OF ALL-INCLUSIVE ALL-INCLUSIVE LUXURY LUXURY MEET
“All-inclusives have definitely evolved for the better over the last decade,” says Elite Island Resorts’ Kelsey Mahoney. “Long gone are the days of tasteless buffets, cheap booze and never leaving the resort walls!”
20
Get inspired at WeddingLocation.com
Courtesy of AMResorts
Weddings, honeymoons and all-inclusive resorts go together like—well, like love and marriage. After all, who can’t appreciate a romantic getaway that allows you to pay once, put your wallet away and relax. If you’re considering an all-inclusive for the first time, you’re in luck. In the past decade, a new breed of all-inclusives has emerged with an emphasis on extreme luxury. But how do you choose? Here’s an overview of five popular all-inclusive brands that lay on the luxury, and what you need to know to pick the one that’s just right for the two of you. –Annette Burden
planning guide
tips & tools
Sandals Resorts International The year was 1981, and Jamaican-born entrepreneur Gordon “Butch” Stewart had a plan: launch an upscale all-inclusive resort for couples and name his new enterprise Sandals. Designed specifically for lovebirds, his Caribbean properties unveiled the first swim-up pool bar in 1985 and went on to set new standards with inclusions like fine dining, a choice of indoor or outdoor meals, whirlpools, fitness centers, piano bars, water-skiing and scuba diving. And—cue the trumpets—Sandals invented the WeddingMoon, which invites couples to combine their destination wedding and honeymoon for one convenient fee. Today Sandals Resorts International has 14 Sandals Resorts for couples in the Caribbean—not to mention three Beaches Resorts, two Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts, a private island resort and three private villas for couples, families and groups of every kind. And the innovations just keep coming, from a new spa concept and partnership with the London-based Guild of Professional English Butlers to 26 different categories of lodgings. These include Love Nests—luxury suites designated Swim-Up, Skypool, and Millionaire.
Right: Courtesy of Sandals Beaches Resorts ®
All all-inclusive resorts are not the same, warns Butch Stewart of Sandals Resorts International. Know what’s included before you go to ensure a great experience.
Get inspired at WeddingLocation.com
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planning guide
tips & tools WHAT’S YOUR ALL-INCLUSIVE STYLE?
AMResorts
How do you narrow the world of
In 2001, Alex Zozaya, CEO and president of
options? Here’s how to begin:
AMResorts, launched the company whose
CONSIDER THE AMBIENCE. Kids
brands today include Secrets, Dreams,
or no kids? Quiet romance or nonstop
Zoëtry, Now and Sunscape. Fourteen years
activity? Do you like a bit of formality
later, he oversees 30 all-inclusive resorts
and elegance? Or just love a good
in Mexico, Jamaica and the Dominican
party? Most all-inclusives offer
Republic. “We focus on destinations the
something to accommodate every-
U.S. market can reach within a five-hour
one. Even kid-friendly resorts often
nonstop flight,” Zozaya points out. “All
have adults-only pools and restau-
resorts are on the beach, in places where
rants. Know your comfort zone, and
the consumer can find great value.”
pick a resort most closely aligned with your preferences.
Noting that in the past, the trend among inclusive stays meant an unhappy trade-off
SIZE MATTERS. All-inclusive hotels
between fun and quality, Zozaya says,
may range from 30 rooms to 3,000.
“We wanted to bring the entertainment
Those at the larger end will offer
experience into a luxury infrastructure.”
more restaurants, activities and
And so, the “Unlimited Luxury” and
entertainment. But cozy, intimate
“Endless Privileges” concepts were born.
properties give you a better chance
Offering resorts for different types of
of making friends with other couples
upscale travelers also plays a role in the
and getting to know the staff.
company’s success. Secrets Resorts cater to
TO BEACH OR NOT TO BEACH?
adults only, and romance rules the day—in
Not all beaches are created equal.
other words, they’re a big draw for honey-
Rocks, coral and tumbling surf may
mooners. Zoëtry in the name identifies a high-end, intimate boutique hotel focused on wellness and eco-friendly practices. The Now brand appeals to those looking for quick getaways packed with flavor and fun. Sunscape features nonstop activities in a cheerful, family-friendly environment. And last, but not least, Dreams is, to quote Zozaya, “a homerun for weddings,” hosting up to 400 nuptials per year at each resort.
Whatever an all-inclusive’s price point, the traveler knows exactly what the trip will cost ahead of time. It’s a sure-fire way to stick to a budget!
interfere with your plans for ocean swims. That’s fine if you’d prefer to sip margaritas by the pool anyway. But if you simply must have your daily pre-breakfast snorkel, choose a resort where the beach and ocean are welcoming—and swimmable. WHAT’S THE MEANING OF THIS? All-inclusive rarely means all. Spa treatments usually fall outside the scope, as do scuba diving and motorized watersports. However, if those are important to you, look for a resort that offers discretionary resort credits or breaks the traditional mold and bundles them in. Beaches Resorts, for example, include golf, waterskiing, knee-boarding and tubing, all neatly wrapped in one price. So before you commit, read the fine print to find out exactly what’s included. —Susan Campbell
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Get inspired at WeddingLocation.com
Courtesy of AMResorts
scuba diving and options like
planning guide
tips & tools
For fans of all-inclusives, it’s more about the convenience than the cost. The difference comes down to preference in style and amenities, convenience and peace of mind.
Excellence Group Luxury Hotels & Resorts Another company focused on high-end all-inclusives, Excellence Group Luxury Hotels & Resorts, follows the niche model as well. The portfolio of this family-owned and -operated resort group includes three superluxurious couples-only Excellence Resorts, one in the Courtesy of Excellence Group
Dominican Republic at Punta Cana and two on the Caribbean coast of Mexico. These adults-only, eco-sensitive resorts focus on wellness, combined with gourmet cuisine and tranquil settings. A second brand, under the Beloved label, blends boutique-style with its all-inclusive luxury at Playa Mujeres. Plus, a new brand, Finest, debuted in winter 2015. The first hotel to open under this banner, Finest Playa Mujeres, presents an all-inclusive resort for guests of all ages just north of CancĂşn. Next up? A fourth Excellence Resort for couples, slated to open in Punta Cana in 2016.
Get inspired at WeddingLocation.com
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planning guide
tips & tools
Elite Island Resorts Elite Island Resorts represents an altogether different model of all-inclusives. Its seven Caribbean beachfront properties are owned and operated individually—but all under the banner of Elite Island Resorts. Each is as different from the next as its owner and island location. It’s almost impossible, for instance, to compare St. James’s Club & Villas, Antigua (with its refined, clublike atmosphere for couples, families and singles) and Palm Island Resort, the Grenadines (a private island for adult guests only, focused on nature). All seven resorts do share longstanding traditions of exceptional quality and service, however; and, because of this, Elite believes it represents the most authentic all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean.
improve our resort portfolio. All of our properties have undergone upgrades over the last few years and are now offering lots of new amenities.” These include newly elevated cuisine and expanded menus (gluten free, anyone?), new fitness centers, beach massage pavilions, customizable bridal packages and even free weddings for a minimum nights’ stay.
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Get inspired at WeddingLocation.com
Courtesy of Elite Island Resorts
Plus, as Kelsey Mahoney, marketing communications manager for Elite Island Resorts, points out, “We are always striving to
planning guide
tips & tools
Palace Resorts Palace Resorts recently diversified its Mexico-centric portfolio of seven resorts in Cancún, the Riviera Maya and Cozumel when it launched its eighth: the family-friendly Moon Palace Jamaica Grande in Ocho Rios. The moods and amenities at all eight oceanfront
Many all-inclusives are in destinations that take great pride in hospitality; the staff will typically go above and beyond to make your stay more comfortable.
resorts range from family friendly at Beach Palace in Cancún to boutique-style Isla Mujeres Palace on the tiny island off Cancún. For the highest levels of service and pampering, couples might look to Palace’s fivediamond, adults-only Le Blanc Spa Resort. Kathy Halpern, vice president of sales and marketing for Palace Resorts explains that upon arrival at Le Blanc, guests are greeted with refreshing signature cocktails, chilled scented towels and tropical flowers. The greeting is just a prelude of things to come. “Each floor,” she explains, “is serviced by a butler, available 24 hours a day to cater to guests’ every whim, including unpacking luggage, ironing clothing, providing recommendations on in-room aromatherapy, offering options from the pillow menu and preparing a whirlpool tub each night.” With their oceanfront settings, all Palace Resorts offer scenic wedding venues, of course. But they also offer complimentary honeymoon packages with a minium nights’ stay—with all-inclusive ease, of course.
MAXIMIZE YOUR STAY Decided to go all in? Use these tips to make the most of your stay. DO YOUR HOMEWORK. With the layout and offerings of a mini-city, large all-inclusives can be disorienting at first. Learn the lay of the land on Day One to avoid missing out on such free offerings as Spanish lessons, snorkeling or sunrise beach yoga. MAKE DINNER RESERVATIONS. Regular patrons of the all-inclusive experience know that many of the higher-end restaurants book up quickly, leaving few options but the buffet. So call—early—to reserve. BEFRIEND THE CONCIERGE. Good concierges make magic happen. They can line up a shuttle for off-property excursions, recommend must-see attractions and little-known local hot spots, direct you to reputable tour operators, and reserve a table in town for a special night out. ROOM SERVICE? But of course! Most resorts include room service as part of the all-inclusive plan, although some reserve the 24/7 service for select room types. Regardless, room service at an all-inclusive property is still a deal. So go ahead, indulge!
Courtesy of Palace Resorts
SPEAK UP (NICELY)! All-inclusives seem to be in places that take pride in excellent hospitality, and staff will typically go above and beyond to make your stay more comfortable.
Need bubble bath? Plumper pillows? Don’t be shy; do be nice. —SC
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CABO IS BACK, BETTER THAN EVER There are plenty of reasons to love Los Cabos: blond beaches, desert-meets-sea beauty and a host of high-octane activities. Now Los Cabos gives you one more: a great comeback story. After Hurricane Odile’s powerful blow to the Baja peninsula last year, the Cabo community rallied to come back— and, in many cases, even better than before. Here’s a look at how some of Los Cabos’s most popular— and romantic—resorts are welcoming couples in fresh new ways. –Susan Campbell Casa Dorada Los Cabos Resort & Spa Fate smiled upon Casa Dorada Los Cabos Resort & Spa, delivering only minimal storm damage. Improvements to the resort, located on Los Cabos’s swimmer-friendly Medano Beach, enhanced the Okianus swim-up bar, furniture and pergola roof, as well as the chaises and appointments at the pool. Bar B also received a makeover. Next up? New looks for 12 Tribes restaurant, Maydan Restaurant & Beach Club, and a soft goods refresh inside all of the resort’s lavish hotel suites. casadorada.com
Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf Resort & Spa Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf Resort & Spa will be even dreamier when it reopens October 1. A renewal to 213 suites at the familyfriendly, all-inclusive resort only begins the list, which continues on to include public areas, the spa and fitness center, even an exclusive lounge for Preferred Club guests. Kids in the party will have a splashy new pool to call their own, while grown-ups bask in ocean views from the renewed infinity pool. Even dining pleasures will expand when two all-new establishments join the lineup of globally inspired restaurants. dreamsresorts.com/los-cabos
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Romance inspired the renovations at Esperanza, an Auberge Resort. Each of the 57 guestrooms now suggests seaside sanctuaries, finished in coastal colors, weathered driftwood appointments, and metallic tile
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accents. Candles, hundreds of them, add enchantment to nooks and crannies in guestrooms and beyond. Common areas? They gained luster, too, as evidenced by the new central ceviche bar at Cocina del
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Mar Restaurant and Lounge Bar and palapa-sheltered relaxation lounge at Spa Esperanza. At the pool, new private cabanas and
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plush chaise lounges invite couples to sunbathe by day or stargaze by night. esperanza.aubergeresorts.com
Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos All Inclusive Golf & Spa Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos reopened just six weeks after Odile with a redesigned front desk and lobby bar, now the airy, view-filled heart of the resort. Then the resort embarked on a guestroom enhancement, introducing 55-inch TVs and rainfall showerheads, to be followed by a soft goods refurbishment wrapping up by year’s end. Also debuting later this year: a new restaurant and disco bar where couples can kick up their heels— with frosty margaritas in hand. fiestamericanagrand.com
Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos’s new Baja focus is clear from the first step inside the open-air lobby with its Sea of Cortez views. From there, the Baja-centric experience can be found everywhere from decor to food to entertainment. New highlights at the all-inclusive resort include 21 premium oceanfront and ocean-view suites, plus 34 swim-up suites; an authentic Taqueria and Tequila Bar, and an Olympic-themed Sports Bar (celebrating Mexico’s 1968 Olympic Games). Even the spa received a makeover. Bridal parties will especially appreciate a new massage therapy room and hair and nail salon, standing ever-ready to pamper and primp for that very special occasion. loscabos.ziva.hyatt.com
Marquis Los Cabos All Inclusive Resort & Spa Behind the newly whitewashed façade, the all-suite, all-inclusive Marquis Los Cabos poured some $10 million into renovation and redesign destined to delight. Today’s couples dwell in residentialstyle accommodations with new beds and linens, soak in new hydro-massage tubs, and toast the views from furnished outdoor balconies. Those who can resist the urge to settle in too deeply are rewarded at Suspiro Lounge & Outside Bar, where a new dance floor will keep the party going long into the night. Looking for a ceremony site? The resort’s new seaside gazebo ensures a perfect-photo finish. marquisloscabos.com
One & Only Palmilla Relaxation seekers have new reasons to rejoice at One & Only Palmilla. The resort’s restoration paid special attention to guest pampering beginning in the expanded spa, where a new beauty salon, men’s grooming and shave studio, treatment menu and juice bar underscore One & Only’s signature dedication to feeling—and looking—good. Outside each treatment villa, secluded courtyard gardens add peaceful spots for repose.
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So do the refurbished guestrooms and adult outdoor lounging areas with panoramic ocean views. For relaxation around the dinner table, the new Seared steak house, a Jean-George Vongerichten collaboration, promises memorable wining and dining in true Cabo style. palmilla.oneandonlyresorts.com
Pueblo Bonito Resorts Pueblo Bonito boasts four oceanfront resorts in Los Cabos, meaning four times the freshness. The adults-only Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort now offers new enticements to relax—at the renovated spa, revitalized lobby, and reading pool. At nearby kid-friendly Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Golf & Spa Resort, couples can dine in two new open-air restaurants, hold a reception for up to 120 guests along the beach, and settle in for libations at the revamped lobby bar. Both Pueblo Bonito Rosé Resort & Spa and Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos face the Sea of Cortez, just up the coast where the beaches are swimmable. These neighbors have three 1 Esperanza, an Auberge Resort 2 Marquis Los Cabos 3 Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos 4 Pueblo Bonito Resorts 5 Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf Resort & Spa 6 Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos
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fully refreshed restaurants between them, along with two new venues open to the sea breeze and new oceanfront terrace seating 100 guests—perfect for a wedding soiree. pueblobonito.com
The Resort at Pedregal It took just over four months for The Resort at Pedregal to welcome guests back—and in stylish new ways. Along with a thorough sprucing of the 24-acre luxury enclave, the resort dramatically enhanced the offerings at Luna y Mar Spa, including a spate of treatments emphasizing natural healing techniques. Now couples can warm up with a workout, cool down at the spa, and head to the new cliff-side Champagne Terrace, where wait staff will happily pour the bubbly, paired with cheese, if they like. Then couples can sit back and savor the sparkling Pacific views. theresortatpedregal.com
Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort Opened less than a year before Odile took aim at Cabo, Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort required little in the way of updating. Instead, the adults-only, all-inclusive resort quickly rebooted and welcomed guests back with enticing new offerings. The Save Your Date promotion, one of several, offers a complimentary cocktail party for up to 50 guests when booking a year in advance. Additional wedding ideas, calendar and registry tools—plus live online chats with wedding specialists—make planning a breeze. secretsresorts.com/puerto-los-cabos
Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Golf & Spa Resort Visionaries managed to infuse even more warmth into Sheraton Hacienda del Mar in its property-wide update. Accommodations now feature earth-toned finishes and bold blue accents, dreamy Sweet Sleeper beds wrapped in Egyptian-cotton duvets, and frothy whirlpool tubs. Beyond the
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brick-and-mortar enhancements, couples enjoy new offerings, too. These range from adrenaline-charged activities, like flyboarding and zip-lining, to peaceful pursuits, such as camel safaris and dolphin swims. Weddings and vow renewals now have an added option: the new oceanfront Plazuela, a spectacular oceanfront venue that joins a historic chapel and seven existing locations for spectacular ceremonies. sheratonloscabos.com
Las Ventanas al Paraiso Las Ventanas al Paraiso polished its five-diamond sparkle during an eight-month project that beautified the property and further elevated the experience. Today’s couples stroll to the new spa past meandering waterways and new desert gardens in bloom. On arrival, they’ll select among new therapies, including a signature massage custom-developed
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for every person. Behind the scenes, new Villa Hosts, personal angels for guests of the 12 Signature Villas, cater to every whim. Experientially, five 1 Las Ventanas al Paraiso 2 Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort 3 The Resort at Pedregal 4 Las Ventanas al Paraiso 5 Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort 6 Pueblo Bonito Resorts 7 Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort
once-in-a-lifetime offerings let guests dive into Baja culture and history. These include Baja treasure hunts, barbacoa cooking classes, tequila tasting, and, for the ultimate honeymoon souvenir, pearl creation at Baja’s only pearl farm. rosewoodhotels.com/lasventanas
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SIX SPECTACULAR VENUES FOR TYING THE KNOT Brides and grooms looking to say and celebrate their vows in the most extraordinary way possible will treasure these six distinct locations, from New York, Canada and England to India, Belize and Guatemala. –Isabelle Gullö-Abitia
A Taste of the Exotic in India PHOTOS BY KATHLEEN HARRISON
Weddings in India are colorful affairs inspired by time-honored rituals, and they last for days. This, coupled by the country’s awe-inspiring beauty and great diversity, make for an unforgettable destination wedding. You’ll find no shortage of venues to choose from. How about a majestic palace—like the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur or Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur—complete with elephant processions, henna painting and vintage cars? Or a vibrant theme party in the desert, with camels, of course. You can head to the Himalayas, where towering mountain peaks, lush valleys and pine forests coax guests outdoors for trekking, river rafting and scenic mountain picnics. Or combine the best of both worlds with a desert event in the Himalayas at Chamba Camp Thiksey. tajhotels.com, chambacampthiksey.com
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Fairytale I dos at Blenheim Palace, England PHOTOS BY WEDDINGS BY NICOLA & GLEN
Grand and majestic, yet steeped in romance and grace, Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, just north of Oxford, provides a stunning Baroque backdrop for events. The Palace rests on 2,000 acres of beautifully manicured grounds and offers several picturesque wedding venues. The Orangery, with its large arched windows, palatial entrance and terrace overlooking the Italian Garden, hosts receptions for up to 180 guests. The smaller Marlborough Room accommodates up to 120 and impresses with stunning chandeliers, a grand fireplace and a double-vaulted ceiling that rises to the full height of the Palace. The magical Great Hall hosts events for 60-300 guests, while The Long Library, one of Britain’s longest rooms, provides a classic setting for intimate dining for 320 guests. blenheimpalace.com
Epic Celebrations at Fort Ticonderoga, New York PHOTOS BY MATT RAMOS
With its historic significance and spectacular beauty, Fort Ticonderoga in New York’s Adirondack Park offers a larger-than-life location to exchange vows. The Fort is set
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on 2,000 acres along the shores of Lake Champlain and overlooks Vermont’s Green Mountains. Weddings here typically take place in the exquisite Colonial Revival King’s Garden. But couples can also charter the Fort’s own luxury vessel, Carillon, for a romantic, view-filled experience on Lake Champlain. During their stay in the Adirondacks, the wedding party can also enjoy a wealth of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. fortticonderoga.org
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Cool Beginnings at Hôtel de Glace, Canada PHOTOS BY DAVID SEAVER
Among the world’s rarest and most wonderous wedding venues for winter brides, Hôtel de Glace enchants with an ephemeral design made entirely of ice and snow. Imagine pledging forever in a vaulted ice chapel adorned with a glistening ice chandelier and crystalline sculptures. Along with the chapel, the hotel features include 44 distinctive suites for overnight guests, an ice bar serving cocktails in (wait for it) an ice glass, and a grand ice slide for some slippery winter fun. Several wedding packages and wedding coordinators who assist with customizing the details ensure extra enchantment. One word of advice: dress warmly! Open from January 4 to March 28, 2016. hoteldeglace-canada.com
On the Wild Side at The Belize Zoo PHOTO BY JACKLYN GREENBERG, JAGSTUDIOS
Belize is an exotic wedding destination in itself, but now couples can experience an even wilder side of this small, tropical nation by tying the knot at the Belize Zoo. Say “I do” with jaguars, tapirs, macaws, eagles and coatis as witnesses, and surprise everyone by having Balboa the Boa as your ring-bearer. Celebrate your union with tapas and ceviche on the Zoo’s deck, overlooking the tapir and king vulture enclosures. belizezoo.org
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Timeless Vows in Guatemala PHOTOS BY KATHLEEN HARRISON AND JOSÉ PABLO MARTÍNEZ
This magical and relatively undiscovered wedding destination blends breathtaking scenery with the rich culture of the indigenous people—from vibrant markets showcasing beautiful arts and crafts to the impressive monuments built by the Mayans. Here, even the most elaborate celebrations go easy on the pocketbook. Plus, Guatemala is only short flight from the U.S. Whether you say I do in the colonial city of Antigua, by the peaceful Lake Atitlan, on the beach by the Pacific Ocean, or in the ancient Mayan city of Tikal, your wedding vows will be nothing short of spectacular. weddingsinguatemala.com
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Every wedding speaks volumes about the individuals getting married, from their history to their style to what they hold dear. Here, we present five couples who followed their hearts to pledge “forever” at far-flung destinations: from the California wine country and Arizona desert to the beaches of Antigua, Maui and Los Cabos. Knowing that one great idea always leads to another, we trust the following pages will inspire you to express exactly who you are in planning your own wedding—at the destination of your dreams. BY ANNET TE BURDEN 36
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THE DETAILS Bride’s Dress Inbal Dror Shoes Badgley Mischka Jewelry Nordstrom bracelet and BHLDN earrings Hair Ruca Bowman of Hautie Rouge Salon Makeup Azure Schaffer of Artistry by Azure Bridesmaid Dresses The Reformation Groom & Groomsmen’s Tuxes Men’s Wearhouse Wedding Planner Regina Osgood of Meant 2 Be Events Flowers Petal Pusher Catering The Boulders Resort & Spa Cake Bouchon Bakery First Dance “I Cross My Heart,” George Strait Bride Advice “Find an amazing coordinator that you trust, and let him or her suggest the event vendors. Regina was great, and having vendors who frequently work together made the wedding seamless.” Resort Website theboulders.com
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Amanda Parker & Josh White
DESERT I DOS SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA
Photos by Katina Patriquin Photography
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manda Parker, full-time mom, and Josh White, a project facilitator for Fess Parker Enterprises, grew up and fell in love in a prime spot for destination weddings—the wine
country behind Santa Barbara, California. And yet, instead of claiming the home advantage for their vows, the 27-year-old lovebirds, their year-old son Lincoln, dog Sophie and 120 guests flew the coop for a wedding at The Boulders Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, Arizona. “We knew if we did it locally, it had to be massive,” Amanda explains, “and neither of us wanted a huge wedding. Besides, The Boulders is beautiful. We saw photos of Promise Rock online and fell in love with it.” The prenuptial events began Thursday, April 23, 2015, with a christening for Lincoln performed by their Arizona wedding officiant Randy Williams, and ended with a rehearsal dinner for nearly half the guest list on Friday at El Encanto, a local restaurant and cantina steeped in the romance of Old Mexico. On Saturday, at 3:30 p.m.—after hours of leisurely preparation— the whole gang converged on Promise Rock, an outdoor chapel of sorts framed in giant boulders, a waterfall, grassy areas and native cacti. Regina Osgood of Meant 2 Be Events had dressed the site in wooden benches, all-white flowers and a canopy borrowed from Arc de Belle in Phoenix. A string quartet accompanied the opening procession with “Here Comes the Sun” and the bride’s entrance with a string version of Bon Iver’s “Holocene.” Cocktails, dinner and dancing took place at El Pedregal, the resort’s courtyardlike setting for meetings and banquets. “Regina made everything so beautiful,” says Amanda. “Lots of twinkle lights in the trees, candles, fun colors in the florals, a photo booth, gold silverware, gold chairs and a bit of vintage in the furniture of the lounge area.” Dinner was a plated three-course affair—butter-
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nut-squash ravioli, green salad and beef or Southwestern-style chicken—followed by wedding cake with a custard filling and fresh berries. “It was amazing!” Amanda says. Does she think holding her wedding far from home will affect the future in any way? “Only for the better,” she says, “as we avoided a 400-person wedding, and our pocketbook appreciates that.”
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Elizabeth Rayford & Phillip Bossier
ISLAND MAGIC, SOUTHERN STYLE MAMORA BAY, ANTIGUA
Photos by Brandon O’Neal Photography
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hat do bow ties, umbrellas, a bulldog and the Caribbean isle of Antigua have in common? They all figured prominently in the wedding of Elizabeth
“Lizzy” Rayford and Phillip Bossier. The couple from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, met in high school and fell in love at Louisiana State University. She, 28, is political director for the fundraising Bautsch Group and he, 30, is COO of Diamond B Construction. As a child, Lizzy spent holidays at the home of her paternal grandmother, Iris, at the St. James’s Club & Villas on Antigua. For her, holding a destination wedding at the resort was “a no-brainer,” she says. Personal details and a love for the island influenced every aspect of the wedding, starting with a drawing of the couple’s beloved bulldog, Leroy, on the save-the-dates. For the formal invites, their graphics reflected the history of Antigua; and the 125 guests arrived to find welcome gifts of all-Antiguan products along with a booklet detailing events over the next four days. Those events included a lively meet-and-greet at Iris’s house; a rehearsal dinner, live entertainment and dancing on the beach; and a trip to Shirley Heights Lookout for barbecue, rum punch and dancing to local bands. The centerpiece event took place at 6:30 p.m., October 26, 2013, on the resort’s dock. White tents sheltered guests from the sun and ocean breeze; a string quartet played the classics; and a close friend, Gentry Mangun, led the vows in front of the Mamora Bay Gazebo. The proceedings drew quite a crowd on the beach. “I grew up there, coming every summer,” Lizzy says, “so many of the staff and islanders felt as if I was family. It was truly an experience of a lifetime.” The same warm friends-and-family feeling pervaded the reception. Held at English Harbour’s Copper & Lumber Store Hotel (a former warehouse built in 1783), the celebration combined the colonial flavor of Nelson’s Dockyard with Louisiana style and flair. The wedding party—all gentlemen in bow ties and everyone twirling New Orleans– style umbrellas—danced the whole group into the dining room where, although unable to attend, Leroy stayed on everyone’s mind thanks to bulldog-shaped place cards on the tables and his photo on the wall.
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THE DETAILS Bride’s Dresses Austin Scarlett’s Water Lily (wedding) and Gardenia (reception) Shoes Christian Louboutin and Kate Spade Something Old The bride’s great grandmother’s handkerchief (to hold her bouquet) Something New The gown and shoes Something Borrowed Diamond and pearl earrings from the bride’s mother Something Blue Hanky Panky I Do panties (“TMI?”) Hair & Makeup St. James’s Beauty Salon and Kristin Antony Bridesmaid Dresses Amsale Groom and Groomsmen Attire Brooks Brothers Wedding Planner Paula Martin, St. James’s Club & Villas Music Coordinator Paddy Prendergast (manager and guitarist for Itchy Feet) Floral Designer Mark Brown Catering St. James’s Club & Villas and Copper & Lumber Store Hotel Cake Erin Fuller, Antigua First Dance “All I Need,” Awolnation Videographers Kelly Davis and Tessa Rowe of Dyle Films, New Orleans Venue Websites stjamesclubantigua. com, copperandlumberhotel.com
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THE DETAILS Bride’s Dress A mermaid shape, “sweetheart neckline, ruffling and a little bling” Hair & Makeup Royal Lahaina Resort Bridesmaid Dresses Royal blue, strapless, knee length Groom & Groomsmen Attire Tan suits, white dress shirts, royal blue ties and yellow boutonnieres Wedding Planner Amy Johnston of the Royal Lahaina Resort Catering, Flowers & Cake Royal Lahaina Resort First Dance “I Won’t Give Up,” Jason Mraz Bride Ideas “We gave our guests disposable cameras, and I’m glad we did. It all goes by so fast and I would have missed some parts without those candid shots.” Best Advice “Don’t sweat the small stuff. Remember to soak in the moment and take in how much you love your soon-to-be life partner. Despite all the details, decisions and DIY favors, that’s what it’s all about!” Resort Website royallahaina.com
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Stephanie Turner & Blake Burgard
KINDRED SPIRITS LAHAINA, MAUI, HAWAII
Photos by Sean Michael Hower
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ifelong Californians Stephanie Turner, 27, and Blake Burgard, 39, met on the job, she as a 911 dispatcher and he as a police officer for the Santa Barbara Police Department.
A shared commitment to animal rescue and playing baseball in their free time led to a genuine friendship. But, Stephanie says, “after about a year, the friendship blossomed into something much more.” He popped the question during a baseball tournament weekend in San Diego, dropping to one knee against a backdrop of free-roaming giraffes, wildebeests, antelopes and rhinoceroses at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. They opted for a destination wedding to give their guests an excuse for a vacation, Stephanie says. “We invited family from all over—California, Utah, Texas, North Carolina, West Virginia and even Holland—so it had to be a special place that everyone would enjoy.” They narrowed it down to Maui and the Royal Lahaina Resort. “We wanted a laid-back, yet classy, beachside wedding and thought that was a perfect spot.” Before taking the plunge, they treated their 40 guests to the Royal Lahaina’s legendary luau. “It was super fun and helped to introduce everyone before the big day,” Stephanie says. The vows took place the next day, August 30, 2014, at 5:15 p.m., on a grassy cliff overlooking the ocean. Plumeria blossoms perfumed the walkway, Hawaiian music filled the air, and the couple said I do before a simple bamboo arch draped in muslin and set off by sunny floral medallions. For the reception, everyone met at a seaside suite—a popular choice for parties with its backyard on the ocean. Heartfelt speeches, toasts and a plated dinner of surf, turf and veggie options led up to a show-stopping cake (lavished with a macada-
mia-nut filling and chocolate ganache). Then, right on cue, a DJ got everyone up and moving to an eclectic mix of country, rock and pop tunes. “I don’t think there was ever a moment when the dance floor was empty,” Stephanie says. She always knew that it’s hard to beat Maui for romance. But, she says, “watching all of our guests in vacation mode, enjoying every minute, definitely made things that much more amazing.”
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Lauren Siri & Cory Hjelmeir
BAREFOOT IN BAJA CABO SAN LUCAS, MEXICO Photos by Alec & T. Photography
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couple since college, Cory Hjelmeir popped the question to Lauren Siri in May of 2013 during a trip with her family to Siena, Italy. At dinner, half-joking, her sister’s husband
suggested they tie the knot at a family favorite, Esperanza, an Auberge Resort in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Always quick to seize on a good idea, the dynamic duo set the date and signed the contract with Esperanza just two weeks later. Fast-forward to April 2014, when the California-born and -raised couple flew to Cabo from Reno, Nevada, where Lauren, 28, manages events for the University of Nevada and Cory, 29, is president of a mortgage company. Their 120 guests came mostly from California, and all stayed at lodgings of their choice. On Thursday, April 24, Cory and Lauren treated their 22 attendants (plus their plus-ones) to dinner at Esperanza, then “celebrated the night away” in town with all their friends. Everyone joined Friday’s rehearsal dinner, too, at Hacienda Cocina y Cantina, an upscale tables-in-the-sand-style restaurant on Médano Beach. After a relatively quiet day of preparations, Lauren’s godparents led Saturday’s 5:30 p.m. ceremony on Esperanza’s beach. Behind them, everyone could see the waves crashing higher and higher as the tide moved in. Then, shortly after the vows, it happened: “The waves started taking out our ceremony backdrop and chairs!” Lauren says. “It was all hands on deck rescuing the pieces from the waves. We had to move our photo shoot further up land, but it was a great story. I got my barefoot beach wedding just in time.” Next came the wedding feast at Esperanza’s sea-view restaurant, Cocina del Mar, where the courses built to a crescendo of cake and fireworks. Then everyone moved to an indoor-outdoor lounge set up with a DJ, photo booth and, at Cory’s request, cigar rollers and a mashed-potato bar for late night snacks. Those snacks came Anything Lauren would change? “I only wish I could relive it again and again,” she says. “The worst thing I did was doubt that people would come. I was so wrong. Everyone showed up, and we really did have the time of our lives.”
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THE DETAILS Bride’s Dress Lazaro, chosen with the help of Lazaro himself at a Bridal Galleria trunk show Shoes Havaianas flip-flops decked in Swarovski crystals Jewelry Grandmother’s Tiffany & Co. necklace Hair & Makeup Blanc Bridal Salon Bridesmaid Dresses Tart Collections (set off by Amrita Singh earrings) Groom & Groomsmen Attire Calvin Klein Wedding Planner Lauren, with vendor suggestions from T. of the photo team Alec & T. and coordination by Esperanza’s Nubia Villa Flowers & Cake Cabo Flowers & Cakes, with the cake designed to match the cake topper from Lauren’s grandparents’ wedding Catering Cocina del Mar DJ Roberto Contreras, DJ/MC RoCAy
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First Dance “You & Me,” Dave Matthews Band Bride Ideas All Beatles music for the wedding: “In My Life,” “All You Need Is Love” and “Good Day Sunshine” for the ceremony; the words to John Lennon’s “Grow Old with Me” for the sand ceremony; and an all-Beatles playlist for dinner. Resort Website esperanza.aubergeresorts.com
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THE DETAILS Bride’s Dress Vintage, ivory and gold Shoes Vera Wang Jewelry Surprise gift of a necklace made from her mom’s engagement ring, and her grandmother’s wedding ring on her right hand Hair & Makeup Westin Verasa Napa Bridesmaid Dresses Wine-colored satin Groom & Groomsmen Attire Identical tan suits Wedding Planner Jenifer Hammond of I Do wedding services Flowers Daisy Rose Floral Design (“Amazing!”) Catering Company Ad Hoc Cake Bouchon Bakery
Bride Ideas “We sent song request cards with the invitations, and the DJ played them during dinner—people really liked that.” Venue Websites vsattui.com, westinnapa.com
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First Dance “All My Days,” Alexi Murdoch
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Bethany Kragor & Richard Barnes
NAPA VALLEY NUPTIALS ST. HELENA, CALIFORNIA Photos by Dreamtime Images
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ethany Kragor, 28, and Richard Barnes, 30, had their first date in 2011. This was followed by a long-distance courtship that ended the following year when she moved
from her hometown of Denver, Colorado, to his hometown of Lincoln, Nebraska. Before long, the sweethearts—she a massage therapist and he a business owner—were celebrating their engagement with a trip to Napa Valley, California. “We kept joking about getting married then and there,” Bethany says. Back home, she ran the idea of a wine-country wedding by her mom, who said, “Go for it!” So they did. They hired Jenifer Hammond, the planner who coordinated Rich’s sister’s destination wedding two years before, and told her they wanted everything to be all about Napa—with the accent on food and wine. For the wedding, they chose one of the valley’s oldest and most beautiful wineries, V. Sattui in St. Helena. Their 48 guests stayed at the Westin Verasa Napa, surrounded by the tasting rooms, restaurants and shops of downtown Napa. A welcome party at Sullivan Vineyards came with wine tasting, charcuterie and take-home treats from Rutherford Ranch Winery. The next day, a chartered bus took everyone for a tour and tasting at Pine Ridge Vineyards, lunch at Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch and a tasting at Regusci Winery. On the wedding day, November 5, 2013, Bethany met her bridesmaids at the Westin, where Jenifer had arranged for mimosas, fruit, croissants, and hair and makeup for everyone. Then, at 5 p.m., Bethany—in a vintage gown of ivory and gold— descended V. Sattui’s staircase by candlelight and exchanged vows with Rich in the Tuscan-style courtyard. Next came cocktails on the terrace and a candlelit dinner and dancing in the barrel cellar. One long table—dressed in burlap, lace and the bridesmaid’s bouquets—hosted a five-course feast catered by Ad Hoc, sister restaurant to Thomas Keller’s famed French Laundry. “It was everything we had hoped for and more,” Bethany says. “Napa has always been the place where Rich and I truly fall in love all over again. It’s our happy place and our I-don’t-care-if-people-see-me-kissing-you-in-public place. It’s so romantic and incredibly beautiful—and the wine! Oh, the wine!”
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Welcome to the Fall/Winter 2015 guide to Elite Wedding Collection member resort and hotels. Here, you’ll find a selection of the world’s most romantic destinations for weddings, honeymoons and trips for two.
Continental U.S. & Hawaii 50 Caribbean 58 Latin America 72
WEDDING collection
elite
77
continental
U.S.
and
50
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Hawaii
L
ovebirds looking to say and celebrate their I dos on U.S. soil find an infinite number of
dream destinations just a short distance away. Among these stateside havens, California has it all, from bustling cities and world-class wine country to striking
coastlines, mountains and deserts. Florida means heaven on earth for lovers of sun-kissed days and moonlit nights, palmlined seascapes and pulsing city streets. Romance blooms under blue skies more than 300 days a year in Nevada. And in the Empire State, couples face a mother lode of possibilities, whether you’re headed upstate or to the Big Apple. For those dreaming of an island “weddingmoon,” Hawaii promises year-round sunshine and an atmosphere that’s perfect for romance. Picture the two of you surrounded by sunny skies and rainbows, swaying palms, blue water and glorious beaches. Simply tuck a flower behind your left ear—meaning you’re “taken”— order a passion fruit drink, and let the spirit carry you away.
CONTINENTAL U.S. AND HAWAII CONTINENTAL U.S. CALIFORNIA
Coronado 53 Hotel del Coronado Santa Ynez Valley 56 The Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort FLORIDA
Miami Beach 54 Fontainebleau Miami Beach
HAWAII BIG ISLAND
57
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
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57 52
Coronado, California
CO
U P LES S AY
WHAT
HOTEL DEL CORONADO
“Our wedding was over-the-top amazing; so much more than we ever imagined. The hotel staff is terrific. We loved the experience, and so did our guests.” Kyle & Lindsey
THE BASICS
O
ff the coast of San Diego, Hotel del Coronado’s iconic red turret
castle has been the backdrop for fairytale weddings for over 125 years. Built in 1888, The Del, as it’s known, fuses the charm and grace of yesteryear with today’s luxuries, everywhere from the newly renovated guestrooms, oceanfront cottages and villas at Beach Village, to
Airport Proximity San Diego International (SAN), 15 min.
the award-winning restaurants and Spa at
Rooms & Suites 757, including cottages & villas
the Del, where ocean-inspired therapies
than just picturesque events—it also
ensure relaxation.
promises a wealth of outdoor recreation,
Max Group Size 800 outdoor/indoor Onsite Coordinator No Room Rates $295-$6,000+ Reservations 800.HOTEL.DEL Wedding Contact Catering Department; 619.522.8070, delcatering@hoteldel.com Website hoteldel.com/weddings
Named America’s most romantic place
The waterfront setting figures into more
from surfing to swimming to relaxing on Del
to marry by The Travel Channel, The Del
Beach with full food and beverage services.
orchestrates picturesque Southern
Couples can further explore charming
California weddings in a variety of venues.
Coronado Island by bike or on foot, or
The lineup includes the Crown Room, with
browse the upscale boutiques at Shops at
its distinctive wood-domed ceiling and
The Del. At day’s end, couples may settle in
crown chandeliers; a private beach, for a
for nightly onsite events and entertainment
toes-in-the-sand celebration; and Windsor
or simply cozy up beside a glowing bonfire
Lawn, with its Pacific Ocean views.
to admire the crimson sunset.
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Miami Beach, Florida
FONTAINEBLEAU
THE BASICS
F
ontainebleau Miami Beach provides a premier resort playground on
Airport Proximity Miami International (MIA), 20 min.; Fort Lauderdale International (FLL), 35 min.
Florida’s sunny shores, promising guests
Rooms & Suites 1,504
glamour and modern luxury.
Max Group Size 800
a spectacular blend of old-world The iconic resort, which boasts pan-
Onsite Coordinator Yes
oramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and
Room Rates From $249
Miami Beach, encompasses two new
Reservations 305.538.2000
towers, 12 restaurants and lounges, a
Wedding Contact Wedding Specialist; 305.695.4817, somethingbleau@fontainebleau.com
40,000-square-foot spa, plus a dramatic
Website somethingbleau.com
oceanfront poolscape that features a free-form pool shaped as a reinterpretation of original architect Morris Lapidus’ signature bow-tie design. Fontainebleau is perfect for intimate and large-scale wedding celebrations
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alike. Couples can choose among several
venues are highlighted by floating
outdoor ceremony and reception sites as
ceilings, crystal chandeliers and sweeping
well as stylish ballrooms, each location
curves that convey Fontainebleau’s 21st
uniquely designed to wow even the most
century glamour—and Lapidus’ flair for
discerning of brides and grooms. Indoor
the theatrical.
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walk-in showers. Another treat: all rooms come with 20-inch iMac computers. Guestrooms with balconies take in spectacular views of the beach, ocean, bay or downtown Miami. Mere steps away, guests relax by 11 pools surrounded by cabanas and sun loungers. Others spend the day on the beach, lounging on the warm sand or enjoying a variety of watersports, like windsurfing and Jet Skiing. Those who wish to take the pampering experience to the next level head to Lapis Spa, where interiors, treatments and Bridal couples at Fontainebleau will
personalize the special day, including
programs center around the natural healing
appreciate the vision and creative input of
customized wedding cake designs from
properties of water. Here, couples can
the resort’s team of wedding professionals
the pastry shop onsite.
share body treatments side by side, from
and internationally acclaimed chefs. They
Accommodations are designed with
massages to facials to body wraps. Bridal
can also take advantage of various nuptial
modern fabrics, elegant furnishings,
groups can book any number of relaxing
packages, all providing the essentials for
high-definition flat-screen TVs, and marble
and beautifying therapies in anticipation of
saying “I do” along with many options to
baths featuring granite counter tops and
the big day.
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Santa Ynez Valley, California
U P LES S
“My family has had wonderful experiences at the Alisal every summer for over 25 years, and we couldn’t imagine not having our wedding there. Our guests joined us for fishing, a western-themed rehearsal dinner and the connection between nature and family.” Meryl & Jon
THE BASICS Airport Proximity Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA), 40 min. Rooms & Suites 73 Max Group Size 200 outdoor/150 indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates $525-$725 Reservations 800.4.ALISAL Wedding Contact Contact for details. Website alisal.com
I
n the heart of Central California’s Santa Ynez Valley, just north of Santa Barbara,
The Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort is the perfect place for bridal couples who appreciate just the right mix of outdoor
Erin Hearts Court Photography
CO
AY
WHAT
THE ALISAL GUEST RANCH AND RESORT
adventure and rustic elegance. A full-service resort and working cattle ranch, the 10,000-acre retreat—voted one of the “50 best dude ranches in the West” by Sunset magazine—offers horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking adventures through vast plains and canyons. The Alisal is also home to a
When it comes to weddings, the resort
pristine lake, inviting days of fishing,
is reserved exclusively for bridal parties
canoeing and bird watching.
that book the entire property for their
After a day in the great outdoors,
event. Vows may be exchanged on a lush
couples in love can retreat to the spa, the
hillside, in the shade of a sycamore grove
newest addition to the 72-year-old resort,
or on a wood deck overlooking the lake.
to relax with a pampering therapy,
Lakeside receptions are as popular as
ensuring they’ll feel rested and ready for
celebrations in one of the Western-
the next day’s adventures.
inspired indoor venues.
56 Find the best deals at WeddingLocation.com
Kohala Coast, Big Island, Hawaii
MAUNA KEA BEACH HOTEL
THE BASICS Airport Proximity Kona International (KOA), 30 mins. Rooms & Suites 252 Max Group Size 180 outdoor/850 indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates From $425
T
he sun shines warm and bright on Hawaii’s Kohala Coast, a fitting place
to begin life’s happily ever afters. Here, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, now a member of the Autograph Collection, combines the timeless spirit of aloha with a dream
Reservations 866.977.4589
setting along the Big Island’s
Wedding Contact romance@maunakearesort.net, 808.880.3424
Kauna’oa Beach. lush acres graced by gardens,
from its position high on an ancient lava
Website princeresortshawaii.com
meandering koi ponds and a collection of
bluff, amid coconut palms, sculpted
museum-quality art—a perfect
fairways and the rolling surf below.
The 252-room resort sprawls on 60
complement to the backdrop of black lava
Couples at play spend time at the
rock, sugar-white sands and emerald
beach, pool, golf course or 11-court tennis
fairways. Weddings at the resort range
center, or head to Mauna Kea Spa by
from barefoot beach ceremonies to grand
Mandara for complete relaxation. A
ballroom affairs worthy of Hawaiian
special romance package turns up the
royalty. But the most popular venue of all,
heat with many unique extras, including
the third tee box of the Mauna Kea Golf
the rental of a convertible car for easy,
Course, promises dramatic evening views
breezy tours of the island.
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Caribbean 58
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W
ith its unparalleled beaches, first-class resorts and unlimited activities, the Caribbean beckons couples in search
of rest and rejuvenation as well as adventure. From the Bahamas to Aruba, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic, each island has something unique to offer, providing endless possibilities for couples to realize the destination wedding of their dreams. Clearly, this is why so many American brides and grooms rate these tropical isles as the top spot for offshore vows. Here, just a skip and a hop from the U.S., you and your bridal party can escape reality and revel in the romantic, luxuriously laidback vibe that keeps the Caribbean cool.
CARIBBEAN DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 61
Dreams Palm Beach Punta Cana
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Dreams La Romana Resort & Spa
64 Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa 65
Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa
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Excellence Punta Cana
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Now Larimar Punta Cana
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Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana
JAMAICA 69
Secrets St. James Montego Bay
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Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay
PUERTO RICO 71
Gran Meliรก Golf Resort & Spa
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71 60
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
CO
U P LES S AY
WHAT
DREAMS PALM BEACH PUNTA CANA
“Our honeymoon at the resort was amazing. Anyone considering this place for your destination wedding, honeymoon or vacation, just book it. You won’t be disappointed.” Ryan & Jennifer
A
et on one of the Dominican Republic’s most spectacular
beaches, Dreams Palm Beach Punta Cana offers the quintessential Caribbean getaway. Here, in a paradise of palmstudded sand, cobalt-blue water and tropical resort facilities vowing UnlimitedLuxury, couples find a heavenly spot to say “I do” and renew their lives together.
Airport Proximity Punta Cana International (PUJ), 20 min. Rooms & Suites 500 Max Group Size 300 outdoor/indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates Contact for a quote. Reservations 866.2DREAMS Wedding Contact weddings.drepb@dreamsresorts.com Website dreamsresorts.com/palm-beach
Unlimited-Luxury promises guests
that guests of all ages can enjoy their own time in their own way.
carefree indulgence, whether in the rooms
With spa couples massages, candlelit
and suites, at the five premium bars and six
dinners and cocktails at the swim-up bar,
gourmet restaurants or with the 24-hour
possibilities for romance are endless—
room service. Complimentary activities
and reach a pinnacle during wedding
range from tennis and ocean sports to
celebrations onsite. Assisted by an expert
classes in scuba diving, yoga and Spanish.
event planner, brides and grooms can
Evenings can be spent dancing at the
marry on the beach or in a tall white-
resort’s nightclub or watching Broadway
stone gazebo. A choice of three wedding
and Dominican-inspired shows in a large
packages, one complimentary with
amphitheater. The onsite Explorer’s Club
minimal requirements, offers numerous
for kids and Core Zone for teens ensure
options to personalize the big day.
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La Romana, Dominican Republic
CO
U P LES S AY
WHAT
DREAMS LA ROMANA RESORT & SPA
“We loved our wedding and honeymoon at Dreams La Romana. Our wedding coordinator was wonderful, and we couldn’t have asked for more.” Dan & Jenny
THE BASICS Airport Proximity La Romana International (LRM), 25 min. Rooms & Suites 751 Max Group Size 500 outdoor/indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates Contact for a quote. Reservations 866.2DREAMS Wedding Contact weddings.drelr@dreamsresorts.com Website dreamsresorts.com/la-romana
A
blend of Spanish, French, African and island cultures gives the
Dominican Republic plenty to offer visitors in the way of food and festivals. But the natural surroundings—lagoonlined beaches and lush tropical forests— may be the biggest draw. Dreams La Romana Resort & Spa combines the beauty of the two, topped off by the privileges of Unlimited-Luxury, where everything’s included. Guests stay close to nature on private balconies or terraces that look onto verdant gardens or the dazzling Caribbean Sea. Rooms and suites bring to mind genteel colonial days with wood furnishings, ceiling fans and tiled floors, though modern
tour desk happily arranges private or
necessities like LCD TVs and MP3 docks
group excursions to nearby Catalina
make comfort truly timeless.
Island for snorkeling or diving, the artist
Day trips give couples and their guests a sense of the island’s vast pleasures. The
62
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village at Altos de Chavon, or the New World’s oldest city, Santo Domingo,
Location
PROPERTY NAME
or sports, everyone looks forward to mealtimes. The resort’s Unlimited-Luxury policy gives guests gourmet dining privileges at eight onsite restaurants and seven friendly lounges serving unlimited premium beverages. Marriage-minded couples enjoy the services of a dedicated wedding coordinator, who includes all the special elements that make for a superb tropical celebration. Couples wed in their choice of locations: an elegant ballroom, picturesque garden or beach gazebo, or on a pier overlooking the ocean. A selection of three bridal packages, one free with minimal requirements, presents which dates to the 1600s. Back at home,
pool. The supervised Explorer’s Club for
many options to personalize the event.
couples relax together in the calm
kids gives the group’s youngest members
Those who stay at least seven nights earn
environs of the world-class spa, soak up
a chance to experience the resort in their
complimentary nights toward their first
the sun on the palm-lined beach, even
own way.
anniversary trip to their Dreams Resort &
take an introductory scuba lesson in the
Following an active day of sightseeing
Spa of choice.
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Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
CO
U P LES S
“Our stay at Dreams Punta Cana was amazing. The service was fabulous, our venue beautifully decorated and the reception dinner excellent. We will definitely be back.” AY
WHAT
DREAMS PUNTA CANA RESORT & SPA
Jeff & Ashley
n the Dominican Republic’s eastern shore, Dreams Punta Cana fulfills
even the most elaborate romantic fantasies. Lovers spend their days surrounded by manicured gardens, lazy palms and sandy beaches. The resort’s Unlimited-Luxury concept promises convenience, quality and
THE BASICS
comfort with complimentary meals at seven theme restaurants, 24-hour room service,
or afternoons taking in the view. Any guest
Airport Proximity 35 minutes from Punta Cana International (PUJ); 50 minutes from La Romana International (LRM)
unlimited cocktails and live entertainment.
can upgrade to a stay in the Preferred
water. Couples can face off on the giant
area, daily hors d’oeuvres, concierge
Rooms & Suites 620
chessboard or play a game of bocce ball.
service and other additional privileges.
Max Group Size 125 for outdoor ceremony & 200 for outdoor reception; 220 indoors
Water volleyball and the resort’s ocean
Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates Contact for a quote. Reservations 866.2DREAMS Wedding Contact weddings.drepc@dreamsresorts.com Website dreamsresorts.com/punta-cana
64
O
Activities abound, in and out of the
Club, where they enjoy a private reception
Brides and grooms are free to relax
trampoline help temper the heat, as does
while the skilled resort staff attends to
the magnificent free-form swimming
every nuptial detail. The Dreams Ultimate
pool—one of the Dominican Republic’s
Wedding Package covers basic ceremony
largest, complete with a swim-up bar.
needs along with thoughtful extras such
All 620 rooms and suites feature
as hairstyling and makeup for the bride, a
furnished balconies and terraces for
live Caribbean music trio and sumptuous
private morning conversations over coffee
couples spa services.
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Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
BREATHLESS PUNTA CANA RESORT & SPA
THE BASICS Airport Proximity Punta Cana International (PUJ), 40 mins.
B
reathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa brings the dream of “having it all” to
life. It begins with the all-adult
Rooms & Suites 750
atmosphere and continues to the
Max Group Size 200 indoor/outdoor
Unlimited-Luxury, which extends from
Onsite Coordinator Yes
bottomless premium beverages and
Room Rates Contact for a quote.
access to 11 gourmet restaurants to a
All 750 suites blend colorful contemporary
Reservations 1.855.65BREATHE
wealth of activities. The location on Uvero
panache with Caribbean style. All offer
Wedding Contact weddings.brepc@breathlessresorts.com
Alto beach in Punta Cana naturally entices
furnished balconies or terraces with personal
couples to sunbathe on the golden sands,
Jacuzzis; some come with swim-out access
Website breathlessresorts.com/punta-cana
or to snorkel, kayak, windsurf or sail the
to the pool.
turquoise waters just off the Dominican
The resort’s stunning setting and fun
Republic’s eastern shore. Eight pools, live
atmosphere complement any monumental
entertainment and beach parties promise
occasion. Couples can simply kick up their
more highlights. Of course, the Breathless
heels, pour the bubbly and enjoy a bachelor/
Spa by Pevonia holds temptations of its
bachelorette party or wedding event that
own, thanks to its wide choice of
will surely take on epic proportions.
sumptuous treatments—some given
Convenient bachelorette, wedding and
under the sun or stars.
honeymoon packages, and the services of an onsite event coordinator, contribute to
The all-suite accommodations add immeasurably to the sense of abundance.
the sense of having it all.
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Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
CO
U P LES S AY
WHAT
EXCELLENCE PUNTA CANA
“Our wedding planner was amazing. She kept in touch often and answered our questions right away. Thanks to our great communication, we didn’t stress during the planning process.” Steve & Michelle
THE BASICS Airport Proximity Punta Cana International (PUJ), 45 min; La Romana International (LRM), 75 min Rooms & Suites 464 Max Group Size 70 outdoor/indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates From US$358 (all-inclusive) Reservations 866.540.2585 (US), 866.451.1592 (CAN)
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C
ombining an all-inclusive luxury
Part of the program: personalized
experience with an adults-only
assistance of a dedicated wedding
resort, Excellence Punta Cana knows
specialist, services of a civil judge or
romantic getaways. The property sits at
nondenominational minister, help with
the easternmost tip of the Dominican
preparing nuptial attire, a wedding cake
Republic in Punta Cana, nestled among a
and sparkling wine. Available upgrades
forest of 7,000 palm trees on a remote
range from breakfast in bed to elaborate
stretch of shoreline.
cocktail receptions to spa treatments for
During the day, the resort becomes an
two. The bride and groom can say “I do”
adult playground, with two pools, including
on the beach or in a shaded seaside
swim-up bars, endless watersports, a
gazebo, with a reception following in the
fitness center and a full-service spa. Balmy
beautiful gardens.
nights offer live entertainment, dining at eight different restaurants and gambling at the casino. Catering to couples’ wedding and honeymoon wishes, Excellence Punta Cana offers a bridal package that is
Wedding Contact groups3@grupoexcellence.com
complimentary with a seven-night stay in
Website excellence-resorts.com
View or higher-category accommodation.
an Excellence Club Junior Suite Ocean
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Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
CO
U P LES S AY
WHAT
NOW LARIMAR PUNTA CANA
“The resort is gorgeous, the staff incredibly friendly and the food variety absolutely amazing. It’s a tropical paradise, and a good time was had by all 31 of us.” Katerina & Drew
THE BASICS
N
ow Larimar Punta Cana celebrates life’s simple pleasures, which begin
with its prized location on Playa Bávaro, a palm-studded, white-sand beach that slopes gently to the crystal clear waters of the Dominican Republic’s eastern shore. Simple pleasures go on to include the resort’s Unlimited-Luxury privileges. Unlimited-Luxury is a convenient,
Airport Proximity Punta Cana International (PUJ), 30 min.
inclusive concept that puts the best of
Rooms & Suites 720
supervised children’s program, a host of
experience by adding massages and
water and beach sports, premium open
other treatments for two at the luxurious
bars and gourmet dining that ranges from
spa. Additional memory-making options
elegant French cuisine at adults-only
include fishing, golf, horseback riding
Mercure to burgers served beachside at
and casino gaming.
Max Group Size 200 outdoor/400 indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates Contact for a quote. Reservations 877.NOW.9953 Wedding Contact weddings.nolpc@nowresorts.com Website nowresorts.com/larimar
everything at guests’ fingertips, such as a
Barefoot Grill. The choice of 720 spacious,
Couples planning to tie the knot
contemporary accommodations balances
during their stay enjoy the services of a
barefoot elegance with the latest amenities
dedicated wedding coordinator and a
and furnished balconies or terraces.
choice of comprehensive packages to
Couples can enhance their resort
help customize their special day.
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Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
CO
U P LES S AY
WHAT
SECRETS ROYAL BEACH PUNTA CANA
“Three months after our wedding, everyone is still talking about it. There isn’t one bad thing we can say about the wedding day. We had a blast.” Angela & Kevin
Dominican Republic’s northeast
coast in an area known as Punta Cana, named one of the Caribbean’s top destinations by Trip Advisor in its 2011 Travelers’ Choice awards. Couples wishing to combine Punta Cana’s
THE BASICS
singular charm with the privileges of
Airport Proximity Punta Cana International (PUJ), 25 min.
Beach Punta Cana for their once-in-a-
options apply to the 465 view-filled
lifetime moments.
rooms, where even “standard” features
Rooms & Suites 465 suites Max Group Size 300 outdoor/indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates Contact for a quote. Reservations 866.GOSECRETS Wedding Contact weddings.serpc@secretsresorts.com Website secretsresorts.com/royal-beach-punta-cana
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P
icturesque Playa Bavaro hugs the
Unlimited-Luxury entrust Secrets Royal
Couples might choose to spend their days floating on the lavish free-form pool—ordering cocktails from the
mean high-quality linens, a private Jacuzzi and flat-screen TV. Wedding celebrations play out with
attentive wait staff, perhaps—or
ease thanks to the services of planning
indulging in a massage together at the
and catering professionals. A choice of
luxurious spa. Scuba and dance lessons,
wedding packages bundles all the basics,
golf, live entertainment and gourmet
plus more, to enhance the event. For the
dining at a range of restaurants (including
ultimate romantic ceremony, the resort
those of sister properties) provide
often recommends a setting on the
additional highlights. Similarly extensive
sugary sands of Bavaro Beach at sunset.
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Montego Bay, Jamaica
CO
U P LES S AY
WHAT
SECRETS ST. JAMES MONTEGO BAY
“Secrets is the best place to get married. We loved our wedding and have been telling everyone about the experience we had there.” Nalysha & Christopher
THE BASICS
A
t Secrets St. James Montego Bay, couples bask in the Jamaican sun
while sipping piña coladas and filtering powder soft sand through their toes. Brand-new with an elegant British Colonial aesthetic, the 350-suite, Unlimited-Luxury resort will enchant lovers looking for an upscale destination steeped in romantic
Airport Proximity Montego Bay International (MBJ), 20 min.
ambience for their wedding or honeymoon.
Rooms & Suites 350
need, so couples and their guests are free
Max Group Size 400 outdoor/450 indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates Contact for a quote. Reservations 866.GOSECRETS Wedding Contact weddings.sesmb@secretsresorts.com Website secretsresorts.com/st-james-montego-bay
A personal concierge attends to every to enjoy all the benefits of Secrets’
unwind find relaxation poolside, on the beach or at the world-class Secrets Spa by Pevonia. Couples can say “I do” in a beachfront
Unlimited-Luxury promise. Sumptuous
gazebo or in an elegant ballroom.
accommodations along with
Wedding packages—one of them
complimentary meals in nine gourmet
complimentary—include all the basics,
restaurants, bottomless premium-brand
plus a few special perks: preparation of
drinks, live entertainment and a range of
the gown and tuxedo, evening turndown
activities in and out of the water make the
service for the newlyweds and discounts
resort experience truly unforgettable.
on spa treatments. Secrets’ savvy
While the adults-only playground can keep guests busy all day, those seeking to
wedding planners ensure that the big day exceeds all expectations.
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Montego Bay, Jamaica
CO
U P LES S AY
WHAT
SECRETS WILD ORCHID MONTEGO BAY
“All guests had a fabulous time at our sunset beach ceremony. The food, flowers and music were beyond spectacular and the photos and videos gorgeous.” Kathryn & Robert
THE BASICS Airport Proximity Montego Bay International (MBJ), 20 min. Rooms & Suites 350 Max Group Size 400 outdoor/450 indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates Contact for a quote. Reservations 866.GOSECRETS Wedding Contact weddings.sewmb@secretsresorts.com Website secretsresorts.com/wild-orchidmontego-bay
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P
leasure seekers will delight in the adults-only Secrets Wild Orchid
Montego Bay. Here, a vibrant palette of sights, sounds and smells tickles the senses, from the brilliant turquoise bay and blue mountains, to the petal-soft sand, to the murmuring waves and gentle floral breezes. This is paradise, beckoning travelers to relax and stay awhile. The 350 suites are decorated in harmony
kayaking to snorkeling to tennis. For an additional fee, golfers can tee off on one
with the island’s natural textures and warm
of five nearby courses, while spa
colors. Couples can spend the day in their
aficionados relax with treatments at the
plush bathrobes, taking in views of the
Secrets Spa by Pevonia.
ocean from their private balcony and
Several wedding packages—one of
ordering fresh fruit and chilled wine from
them free with minimum requirements—
room service—included thanks to the
suit a range of tastes and budgets. All
resort’s Unlimited-Luxury philosophy.
nuptial celebrations include the event
Unlimited-Luxury extends to premium
coordination, decor, wedding cake and
brand drinks and gourmet food served in
sparkling wine, plus thoughtful extras like
nine restaurants and nine clubs and bars.
special turn-down service for the bride
It also covers most activities, from
and groom.
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Río Grande, Puerto Rico
GRAN MELIÁ GOLF RESORT PUERTO RICO
THE BASICS
H
appily ever after starts from the very moment of arrival at Gran
Airport Proximity Luis Muñoz Marín International (SJU), 25 min.
Meliá Golf Resort Puerto Rico. Set on
Rooms & Suites 550
Coco Beach outside Río Grande against
Max Group Size 500 outdoor/700 indoor
a backdrop of El Yunque rainforest, the
Onsite Coordinator No
resort’s 550 villas and pavilions rise from
Room Rates From US$181
an oceanfront paradise of lush tropical
Reservations 787.657.1040
gardens, pathways and pools.
Wedding Contact Joel Hernández, Catering Sales Manager; 787.657.1051, ext. 2311, joel.hernandez@melia.com Website granmeliapuertorico.com
The multitude of wedding amenities spans a wide choice of ceremony sites—from beach and gardens to ballroom, chapel and villas. Couples The all-suite resort ensures quality time
bringing up to 30 guests to the celebration may choose a package that
for couples with a host of activities, such as
includes a bouquet of roses and orchids
salsa dancing classes, golf, tennis, scuba
or tropical flowers, a decorated archway, a
diving, horseback riding and rainforest
two-tier wedding cake and buffet-style
hikes. At the Yhi Spa, they may indulge in a
dinner for the reception. For groups of up
range of treatments in a couples suite, or
to 50, another package comes with a
lounge on Bali beds by the private outdoor
three-course plated meal and four-hour
pool—the perfect way to relax before and
open bar serving premium brands.
after the big day.
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Latin America 72
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L
onging to feel the sun on your back and the sand between your toes? Grab your sweetie and head south of the border, where Mexico offers some of the world’s
most stunning beaches, fascinating history, unspoiled nature and watersports galore—not to mention wedding-friendly resorts and talented planners. Whether you’re destined for Cancún, the Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta or the tip of Baja, there’s something to suit every couple’s romantic fantasy. Continuing down the Central American continent, lovebirds with a penchant for the unusual will be richly rewarded by the distinct character of Mexico’s neighbors, including Belize, Honduras, Guatemala, Costa Rica and Panama. The diverse landscapes, captivating cultures and warmth of the people provide an unforgettable backdrop for a destination wedding or honeymoon.
LATIN AMERICA
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COSTA RICA GUANACASTE
Playa El Jobo 75 Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica
MEXICO BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR
Los Cabos 76 Casa Dorada Los Cabos Resort & Spa 77
Esperanza, An Auberge Resort
78
Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf Resort & Spa
80 Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos All Inclusive Golf & Spa 82
Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Golf & Spa Resort, Los Cabos
83
Marquis Los Cabos All Inclusive Resort & Spa
84
Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort
JALISCO
Puerto Vallarta 85 Meliá Vacation Club Puerto Vallarta 86
Now Amber Puerto Vallarta
88
Secrets Vallarta Bay Puerto Vallarta
QUINTANA ROO
Cancún 89 Dreams Sands Cancun Resort & Spa 90
Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun
91
Secrets The Vine Cancun
99
Cozumel 92 Secrets Aurora Cozumel Playa del Carmen (Riviera Maya) 93 Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun Playa Mujeres (Riviera Maya) 94 The Beloved Hotel Playa Mujeres 95
Excellence Playa Mujeres
96
Finest Playa Mujeres
97
Secrets Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort
Puerto Morelos (Riviera Maya) 98 Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa 99 Excellence Riviera Cancun 100 Now Jade Riviera Cancun 101 Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun Tulum (Riviera Maya) 102 Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa Solidaridad (Riviera Maya) 104 Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun
74
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Playa El Jobo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
DREAMS LAS MAREAS COSTA RICA
THE BASICS Airport Proximity Liberia International (LIR), 75 minutes.
P
ristine sands and lush tropical jungles envelop Dreams Las Mareas,
The same inclusive philosophy treats guests to gourmet food in seven
AMResorts’ first property in Costa Rica.
restaurants (including waterfront dining for
Rooms & Suites 447 suites
The luxurious, family-friendly resort, rests
two), limitless top-shelf spirits in two bars
Max Group Size 300 indoor/450 outdoor
directly on Playa El Jobo, on the northern
and a nightclub, plus a variety of activities
Onsite Coordinator Yes
Pacific coast of Guanacaste.
for adults and kids alike.
Room Rates Contact for a quote.
Here, couples and their guests can
Weddings at Dreams Las Mareas are
Reservations 866.2DREAMS
spend their days relaxing on the beach,
sure to be extraordinary affairs,
Wedding Contact weddings.drelm@dreamsresorts.com
lounging by the pool or exploring Costa
coordinated to perfection by the resort’s
Rica’s unforgettable tropical scenery,
own event team. From the beach to
Website dreamsresorts.com/las-mareas
whether snorkeling, surfing, hiking,
seaside restaurants and terraces, romantic
zip-lining or horseback riding.
venues to say “I do” abound.
Back “home,” the 447 upscale suites fuse contemporary design elements with tasteful accents inspired by the local nature and culture. All feature private balconies facing the ocean, jungle or mountains. They also come with large living areas, stocked minibars and 24-hour room service—all part of Dreams’ Unlimited-Luxury policy.
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75
Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico
CO
U P LES S AY
WHAT
CASA DORADA LOS CABOS RESORT & SPA
“Our wedding at Casa Dorada was beautiful and went very smoothly. We highly recommend this wonderful hotel.” Sheila & Steven
THE BASICS Airport Proximity Los Cabos International (SJD), 30 min. Rooms & Suites 150 Max Group Size 200 outdoor/indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates Contact for a quote. Reservations 866.448.0151 Wedding Contact Paula Marquez, Sandra Martínez; weddings@casadorada.com Website casadorada.com Download the free Layar app, scan this page with your smart phone, and discover special interactive content!
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P
erched on five acres overlooking the Playa el Médano shoreline, just steps
from Cabo’s top dining and nightlife spots, Casa Dorada Los Cabos Resort & Spa sets the stage for an unforgettable destination wedding or honeymoon. With its contemporary yet refreshingly laid-back style, the all-suite getaway—a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts— offers an intimate alternative to larger, more crowded area hotels. Spa-inspired
for two at seaside Saltwater Spa make a
accommodations feature private terraces,
perfect prelude to a romantic dinner at
Jacuzzi-equipped marble baths and stylish
12 Tribes Restaurant.
furnishings by renowned designer Adriana
Bridal couples can relax as the expert
Hoyos. Suites also boast stunning views of
event staff sees to every detail for the big
the San Lucas Bay and Playa el Médano—
day, from the menu selections, decor and
Cabo’s most popular swimmable beach.
flowers to photography and live entertain-
Guests spend sun-splashed days
ment. Popular venues to say “I do” include
lounging poolside, or they can sign up for
the pool deck, ocean-view terraces and the
a range of watersports at the resort’s
beach club, each site reflecting the natural
private beach club. Later on, treatments
beauty of Mexico’s golden coast.
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Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico
ESPERANZA, AN AUBERGE RESORT
THE BASICS Airport Proximity Los Cabos International (SJD), 30 mins.
E
speranza, an Auberge Resort’s 17-acre setting may center on nature,
but couples find the experience focuses
Rooms & Suites 57, including casitas
squarely on indulgence. Here, at the only
Max Group Size 150 outdoor/150 indoor
private beach resort in Los Cabos, guests
Onsite Coordinator Yes
of the family-friendly resort enjoy newly
Room Rates From US$550
renovated suites and casitas. All offer
Reservations 855.289.6589
ocean views, private terraces with
Wedding Contact esp.weddings@aubergeresorts.com
outdoor seating, down bedding and
Website esperanza.aubergeresorts.com
access and in-room iPads.
luxury linens, along with wireless Internet Couples seeking R&R might take a dip in the oceanfront infinity pool or visit the
24-hour room service, or presented at a private table for two on the beach.
award-winning spa. Fitness buffs might
Couples say their vows in a choice of
take a complimentary yoga class, work
oceanfront settings along the crescent-
out in the fitness center, play tennis, or try
shaped beach, followed, perhaps, by
local golf, sport fishing, snorkeling or
sunset cocktails by the pool and dinner on
sailing. Food lovers especially appreciate
a terrace carved high into the cliffs. Plus,
the resort’s emphasis on culinary
the resort hosts just one wedding per day,
excellence, whether served in the choice
so couples receive the staff’s undivided
four restaurants, delivered through
attention for their lifetime event.
Find the best deals at WeddingLocation.com 77
Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico
CO
U P LES S AY
WHAT
DREAMS LOS CABOS SUITES GOLF RESORT & SPA
“We had the most perfect wedding day and an utterly stress-free experience, largely thanks to the great staff. Our guests still rave about how amazing their stay at Dreams was.” Ryan & Katie
n the shores of the colorful Sea of Cortez, Dreams Los Cabos Suites
Golf Resort & Spa offers bridal couples and their guests Unlimited-Luxury, a property trademark signifying supreme amenities and service. Elegant colonial Mexican architecture reflects the natural beauty of Mexico’s
THE BASICS
Baja peninsula, with thriving gardens and
Airport Proximity Los Cabos International (SJD), 20 min.
all-suite accommodations offer ocean
Rooms & Suites 213 Max Group Size 500 outdoor/indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates Contact for a quote. Reservations 866.2DREAMS Wedding Contact weddings.drelc@dreamsresorts.com Website dreamsresorts.com/los-cabos
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O
hacienda-style accommodations. The views from private balconies or terraces. Mini-bars, refreshed daily, plus appointments like coffeemakers, robes and slippers, and signature Sweet Dreams mattresses ensure a blissful home-away-
and a full-scale international buffet.
from-home experience.
Oceana sets a quiet atmosphere for dining
When not dining in-suite with 24-hour
in an oceanfront, adults-only setting. But
room service, couples sample a world of
for the ultimate in romance, the staff can
flavors at six restaurants, with menus
arrange a candlelit dinner for two on the
focused on fresh seafood, Asian, Italian
beach. Four lounges, based indoors and
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Location
PROPERTY NAME
rewarded with a complimentary package that includes the assistance of a professional planner, services of a judge or minister, wedding cake, sparkling wine for two and use of the resort’s beachfront gazebo (based on availability). Brides and grooms also receive special turndown service and a distinct honeymoon package with in-room treats like flower petal embellishment on the wedding night, a fruit plate and breakfast in bed. Two additional packages and an à la carte menu provide various upgrades that further personalize the big day. For out, serve guests premium brands, all part
uncommon natural beauty through a host
example, the Dreams Ultimate Package
of the Unlimited-Luxury privileges.
of nearby offerings: dolphin swims, sunset
features makeup and hairstyling for the
and bay cruises, horseback rides, hikes,
bride, a couples massage and a private
San Lucas promise visitors first-class
scuba diving, parasailing and some of the
one-hour cocktail and hors d’oeuvres
shopping, golf, nightlife and cultural
best marlin fishing on the planet.
reception for 20 people, accompanied—in
Nearby, San José del Cabo and Cabo
attractions. Adventure-minded couples and their guests may explore the area’s
Couples who turn to Dreams Los Cabos to fulfill their wedding dreams are
true Los Cabos style—by the festive tunes of a mariachi band.
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79
Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico
CO
U P LES S AY
WHAT
GRAND FIESTA AMERICANA LOS CABOS ALL INCLUSIVE GOLF & SPA
“Our wedding event was everything we could have hoped for, with beautiful ceremony and reception venues directly on the beach and an amazingly attentive planner and event staff.” Bahaneh & Cameron
t the southernmost tip of Baja California, or Land’s End, Grand
Fiesta Americana Los Cabos All Inclusive Golf & Spa offers a most unique setting for a wedding, honeymoon or romantic escape. The AAA Four Diamond Award– winning getaway flanks the Sea of Cortez and a pristine stretch of beach within the
THE BASICS
private resort community of Cabo del Sol,
Airport Proximity Los Cabos International (SJD), 40 min.
San Lucas, two of the world’s most
Rooms & Suites 526 Max Group Size 500 outdoor/650 indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates From US$179 (per person, all-inclusive) Reservations 800.FIESTA.1 Wedding Contact Ambar Molina, Romance Specialist; ambar.molina@posadas.com Website fiestamericanaresorts.com
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A
between San José del Cabo and Cabo popular travel destinations. Few resorts rival the services, amenities and accommodations of Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos. Luxurious
wedding party can reserve the exclusive
guestrooms and suites feature spacious
Grand Club with its 13 suites and 21
and stylish interiors, the latest in
Grand Club rooms. In addition to Casa
technology plus large private balconies
del Mar, a most perfect venue to tie the
overlooking the Sea of Cortez.
knot, the Grand Club features upscale
Couples seeking the ultimate in
room amenities, personal concierge
privacy and personal attention for their
service, a private pool and the Grand
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mud wraps to exfoliating scrubs, bubble baths and hydrotherapy. Golfers will fall in love with the resort’s championship greens, which rank ninth on Golf Digest magazine’s list of Top 50 Resort Courses worldwide and tops its list of courses in Mexico and Latin America. Weddings at Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos are typically celebrated on the oceanfront Whales Terrace, beachside or at the Casa del Mar suite. As part of the resort’s wedding package, the Grand staff decorates the bridal venue of choice with bright white linens and beautiful floral Club Lounge, serving daily continental
climate of Baja’s wine-producing
arrangements, also treating guests to a
breakfast and afternoon premium
Guadalupe Valley help produce high-
champagne toast, international buffet or
cocktails and hors d’ouvres.
quality grapes known for their ability to
three-course plated dinner, a custom
Another exclusive treat for guests:
renew the skin, balance the spirit and
wedding cake and an open bar serving
Fiesta Americana is the first resort in
calm the mind. The spa offers an
premium wine and drinks. An expert
Mexico to introduce Somma Wine Spa.
extensive menu of wine-inspired
planner and event staff assist couples from
Soothing ocean breezes and the ideal
treatments, from massages, facials and
the moment they make their reservations.
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81
Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico
SHERATON HACIENDA DEL MAR GOLF & SPA RESORT
THE BASICS
C
ouples bask in the warmth of authentic Mexican charm at Sheraton
Airport Proximity Los Cabos International (SJD), 40 min.
Hacienda del Mar Golf & Spa Resort, Los
Rooms & Suites 270
Cabos. While the 28-acre setting
Max Group Size 1600 outdoor/400 indoor
overlooking the Sea of Cortez provides
Onsite Coordinator Yes
awe-inspiring beauty, hacienda-style
Room Rates Contact for a quote.
architecture sets the stage for pure
Reservations 52.624.14.67321
romance. Inside, couples experience the
Wedding Contact Viviana Alfaro; viviana.alfaro@sheraton.com, 52.624.14.67321
resort at its peak, following a thorough
Website sheratonhaciendadelmar.com
event spaces and award-winning
renewal that touched everything from guestroom furnishings and finishes to
For weddings, an onsite coordinator
restaurants. Even the infinity pool received
helps couples every step of the way, from
a redo, gaining a cool-to-the-touch pool
initial planning to final dance. Couples
deck and wet lounge for lazing in the water.
might make their vows on the pristine
Guests may spend their days doing as
82
watching and more.
beach, but a historic chapel, beachside
much or as little as they like—working out
gazebo, grand ballroom and new
in the fitness center, jogging along
Plazuela offer enviable alternatives.
landscaped paths, or sunning on the
Some couples celebrate the day’s events
white-sand beach. Moments away, Los
gathered around a fire pit on the beach
Cabos offers golf, deep-sea fishing, whale
as fireworks speckle the night sky.
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Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico
MARQUIS LOS CABOS ALL INCLUSIVE RESORT & SPA HOTEL EL GANZO
THE BASICS
S
et by the Sea of Cortez, overlooking a stunning stretch of Baja coastline,
Airport Proximity Los Cabos International (SJD), 20 min.
Marquis Los Cabos All Inclusive Resort
Rooms & Suites 235
& Spa welcomes guests after a $10 million
Max Group Size 500 outdoor/450 indoor
renovation that upgraded everything
Onsite Coordinator Yes
from the all-suite accommodations
Room Rates From US$450
and all-inclusive meal options to the
Reservations 52.624.144.2000
wedding venues.
dancing at Suspiro Lounge & Outside Bar. Nuptials at Marquis Los Cabos promise a one-of-a-kind celebration, with multiple
Guests luxuriate in one of 235
Wedding Contact weddings@marquisloscabos.com
residential-style accommodations—
venues to choose from—a new seaside
Website marquisloscabos.com
including a sanctuary-like casita with a
gazebo among them—and professional
private pool—that feature ocean views
planners to tailor each event to the
and contemporary Mexican decor. Here,
couple’s desires. Unique to Marquis,
they soak in new hydro-massage tubs and
the Bridal Room offers a private area
toast to the views from furnished
in the spa for the bride and her
balconies. New beds and linens and
bridesmaids to get ready on the big day
complimentary stocked minibars are also
or to host the makeup rehearsal, while
par for the course.
enjoying champagne and delicious hors
Mere steps away, guests can enjoy an
d’oeuvres. Use of the Bridal Room is
array of beachfront and poolside
complimentary with purchase of the
activities, plenty of tee time and, at night,
Bridal Makeup package.
Find the best deals at WeddingLocation.com 83
Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico
SECRETS PUERTO LOS CABOS GOLF & SPA RESORT
THE BASICS Airport Proximity Los Cabos International (SJD), 35 mins.
I
n the exclusive resort community of Puerto Los Cabos, 15 minutes from San
José del Cabo, a secret has been revealed:
Rooms & Suites 500
Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa
Max Group Size 300 indoor/outdoor
Resort. Reserved for adults only, the
Onsite Coordinator Yes
500-suite getaway rests mere steps from
Room Rates Contact for a quote.
the shimmering Sea of Cortez, with the
Reservations 866.GOSECRETS
Sierra de la Laguna Mountains towering in
Wedding Contact weddings.seplc@secretsresorts.com
the distance.
Website secretsresorts.com/puerto-los-cabos
accommodations comes with its own
limitless access to gourmet à la carte
balcony or terrace, from where couples can
dining and premium beverage brands,
soak in views of the sea or lush gardens
a range of daytime activities and live
from their private Jacuzzi. As part of the
evening entertainment.
Each of the well-appointed
resort’s Unlimited-Luxury concept, all
84
Unlimited-Luxury also gives couples
The resort provides brides and grooms
guests are treated to complimentary room
with plenty of options to create their dream
service, while those who upgrade to one of
event, including several stunning wedding
the 150 Preferred Club level suites enjoy
venues and three exclusive bridal packages.
such added privileges as a private lounge,
An expert event coordinator helps guide
pillow menus, upgraded mini-bars and
the action to ensure couples can say and
many other special perks.
celebrate their vows completely worry-free.
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Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
CO
U P LES S AY
WHAT
MELIÁ VACATION CLUB PUERTO VALLARTA
“We are so pleased with our wedding. It was beautiful. Our coordinator and the resort staff did everything to make our wedding day special.” Chris & Angela
T
resort’s wedding gazebo plus the decor,
Vacation Club Puerto Vallarta. Beautiful
ting for the ceremony and dinner recep-
beaches and shady palms invite guests to
tion to follow. Also, those who plan their
simply relax and enjoy Mexico’s beauty.
2016 destination wedding in 2015 may
Go-getters can fill each moment,
take advantage of 2015 pricing for their
ravelers in search of adventure, romance and culture find it all at Meliá
flowers and music, create a beautiful set-
starting with morning yoga or kayaking.
THE BASICS
For pure pampering, couples can lounge
Airport Proximity Puerto Vallarta International (PVR), 5 min.
an outdoor couples massage at Eco-Spa.
Rooms & Suites 318 Max Group Size 400 outdoor/250 indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates From US$107 (all-inclusive, per person, subject to availability) Reservations 889.5MELIA
special event.
poolside on cozy Bali beds or sign up for All accommodations feature a private balcony with picturesque views. Guests staying in “M-Experience” rooms are treated to many exclusive perks, guaranteed to make a romantic getaway unforgettable. With just one wedding per day, bridal
Wedding Contact Romance Department; 52.322.226.3054, romance@melia.com
parties receive the royal treatment, which
Website melia-puerto-vallarta.com
ceremony preparations. A choice of three
includes a bridal party room for preoutdoor venues, which all include the
Find the best deals at WeddingLocation.com
85
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
NOW AMBER PUERTO VALLARTA
THE BASICS
N
ow Amber Puerto Vallarta welcomes guests of all ages to stay, play and
Airport Proximity Puerto Vallarta International (PVR), 15 mins.
celebrate new beginnings on the golden
Rooms & Suites 327 suites
sands of Puerto Vallarta’s Banderas Bay.
Max Group Size 300 outdoor/450 indoor
The family-friendly resort offers a full
Onsite Coordinator Yes
complement of onsite options with nearly
Room Rates Contact for a quote.
everything included, thanks to Now
Reservations 877.NOW.9953
Amber’s Unlimited-Luxury policy.
Wedding Contact weddings.noapv@nowsresorts.com
options keep guests of all ages and
Website nowresorts.com/amber
interests entertained from dawn to
Now Amber’s vast recreational
dusk—and then some. Guests may opt to take a laid-back approach to their
86
At night, guests can kick up their heels
vacation: treatments at the world-class
at the dance club or tap their toes to live
spa, sipping drinks by the pool, ordering
music at the open-air theater. Couples
room service any time of day or night.
stay in one of 327 contemporary-style
Others head for more energetic pursuits:
suites loaded with the latest gadgets and
aqua aerobics, tennis or snorkeling.
most desirable appointments. DVD
Unlimited-Luxury even means
players, iPod docking stations, daily
complimentary greens fees at nearby
stocked mini-bars and cozy bathrobes
18-hole championship golf courses.
create home-away-from-home comfort.
Find the best deals at WeddingLocation.com
Unlimited-Luxury gives guests the opportunity to dine at five reservation-free dining venues onsite. Four onsite bars serve top-shelf spirits as well. Couples who wish to tie the knot here find themselves in the capable hands of a wedding coordinator who orchestrates gorgeous gazebo, poolside or beach ceremonies followed by festive receptions. For added convenience, the resort offers a choice of three wedding and two honeymoon packages that include a free wedding or honeymoon registry. Additional options, like romantic turndown service, spa treatments and breakfast in bed with mimosas, add even more memory-making moments. As a bonus, select wedding and honeymoon packages earn couples Preferred Club accommodations add
throughout the day. All focus on vast
complimentary nights at the Now Resort &
extras like concierge service and a private
views of the Pacific. Round-the-clock
Spa of their choice when they return to
lounge serving food and beverages
in-room dining is an option, of course, but
celebrate their first anniversary.
Find the best deals at WeddingLocation.com
87
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
SECRETS VALLARTA BAY PUERTO VALLARTA
THE BASICS Airport Proximity Puerto Vallarta International (PVR), 15 min.
ll new and adults-only, Secrets Vallarta Bay Puerto Vallarta extends
a warm embrace to couples in love. The
Rooms & Suites 271
sense of welcome begins with the
Max Group Size 300 outdoor/450 indoor
resort’s Unlimited-Luxury policy (where
Onsite Coordinator Yes
premium-brand beverages, gourmet
Room Rates Contact for a quote.
dining and nearly everything else is
Reservations 866.GOSECRETS
included) and continues with a setting,
Wedding Contact weddings.sevpv@secretsresorts.com
amenities and experiences tailor-made
Website secretsresorts.com/vallarta-baypuerto-vallarta
88
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for romance and relaxation. The resort’s Banderas Bay location affords opportunities for adventure-
accommodations provide contemporary panache and plentiful appointments Several wedding and honeymoon
loving couples to dive, fish or swim with
packages include such options as private
dolphins and sea lions. For relaxation,
dinner on the beach and breakfast in bed
couples may opt for pampering at Secrets
with mimosas, special touches destined
Spa by Pevonia. In the evening, they dine
to heighten the romance of any stay. For
at a choice of five reservation-free
couples that come to take their vows, an
establishments or take a short stroll to
onsite coordinator plans scenic ceremo-
sister resort Now Amber Puerto Vallarta
nies in the gazebo, on the terrace, by the
to try additional venues. When it’s time to
pool or on the sand, facing the sapphire
retire for the evening, the 271 suite
waters of the bay.
Find the best deals at WeddingLocation.com
Cancún, Quintana Roo, Mexico
DREAMS SANDS CANCUN RESORT & SPA
THE BASICS Airport Proximity Cancún International (CUN), 25 mins. Rooms & Suites 438 Max Group Size 125 indoor/outdoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates Contact for a quote. Reservations 1.866.2DREAMS Wedding Contact weddings.dresc@dreamsresorts.com Website dreamsresorts.com/sands-cancun
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something-for-everyone philosophy greets couples in love at the new
Dreams Sands Cancun Resort & Spa, located on a white-sand beach at the heart of the Hotel Zone—a setting near Cancún’s best shopping, restaurants and nightlife. Yet, for couples who prefer to remain onsite, resort offerings more than fill the bill: a full-service spa, pool, nonmotorized
Guests choose from 438 view-filled
watersports, nighttime movies, live
guestrooms and suites finished in
entertainment, and a family-friendly
contemporary decor. When selected, the
philosophy that provides fun, separate clubs
Preferred Club unlocks a host of room
for kids and teens. Lessons in everything
upgrades and privileges that pamper.
from Spanish to Caribbean dance to cocktail-
Couples choosing to tie the knot at
mixing—plus nine varied restaurants,
Dreams Sands have all the advantages: an
24-hour room service, and five bars pouring
onsite coordinator dedicated to making
unlimited top-shelf spirits—please every
dreams a reality, romance-laden packages,
member of multi-generational groups. Best
a stunning waterfront venue and enough
of all, nearly everything is included with the
variety to keep everyone in attendance
Unlimited-Luxury policy.
blissfully happy.
Find the best deals at WeddingLocation.com
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Cancún, Quintana Roo, Mexico
CO
U P LES S AY
WHAT
NOW SAPPHIRE RIVIERA CANCUN
“Our Now Sapphire wedding was amazing. The staff was out of this world. The reception food was wonderful, and the DJ kept us dancing for hours.” Leanna & David
THE BASICS
ridal-white beaches, shimmering blue seas, friendly people and
blazing sunsets make the Caribbean coast of Mexico a natural for destination weddings. Couples at Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun can pledge “forever” on the sands fronting the resort or in an oversized gazebo that appears to float above the infinity-edge pool, set against
Airport Proximity Cancún International (CUN), 15 min.
a backdrop of never-ending sky and sea.
Rooms & Suites 496
events to fill individual wishes, and all
broad, looping path invites jogging in the
include a dedicated wedding
morning and starlit strolls at night.
Max Group Size 300 outdoor/indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates Contact for a quote. Reservations 877.NOW.9953 Wedding Contact weddings.nosrc@nowresorts.com Website nowresorts.com/sapphire
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B
Three unique bridal packages tailor
coordinator, flowers, cake and even a rose petal–strewn wedding night. The resort’s layout and architecture
rise directly from the gardens, where a
Couples can count on a honeymoon of pure, unadulterated bliss thanks to the family-friendly, Unlimited-Luxury policy.
borrow from Mayan village design to
This program includes a vast choice of
create a down-to-earth vibe with touches
activities on land and sea—plus all food
of out-of-this-world magic. While the
and beverage from room service, five bars
public buildings look as though they rest
and lounges and six specialty res-
on lily ponds, the private suite structures
taurants—in the price of their stay.
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Cancún, Quintana Roo, Mexico
U P LES S CO
AY
WHAT
SECRETS THE VINE CANCUN
“Our entire stay from beginning to end was flawless. We were treated like royalty. Our experience is one that will never be forgotten!” Emily & Miguel
THE BASICS Airport Proximity Cancún International (CUN), 20 min. Rooms & Suites 497 Max Group Size 250 outdoor/400 indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates Contact for a quote. Reservations 866.GOSECRETS Wedding Contact weddings.sevcu@secretsresorts.com Website secretsresorts.com/vine-cancun
W
hen Secrets The Vine Cancun debuted in August 2012, it
became Cancún’s first Secrets Resort & Spa. In design and amenities, the Unlimited-Luxury resort distills the good life, exemplified in an extensive wine cellar showcasing 3,000 varieties for tastings and pairing with gourmet cuisine at a choice of seven restaurants. A taste of the good life plays out in
range from land and watersports to
every aspect of the adults-only resort.
movies on the beach, dance classes and
The 497 guestrooms, for instance, feature
evening entertainment. Like nearly
Italian porcelain floors, private ocean-view
everything, activities are part of the
balconies and luxury linens. The
inclusive, Unlimited-Luxury lifestyle.
12,580-square-foot spa does its part with
Wedding couples, too, have plenty of
a variety of signature treatments and
options to create their dream event,
hydrotherapy experiences, including
including multiple stunning venues and
couples treatments and a salon for
several packages to suit any taste or
prepping for the big day.
budget. An experienced wedding
Life at the resort can be as relaxing or active as guests desire. Daily choices
coordinator stands by from the moment the couple makes their reservations.
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Cozumel, Quintana Roo, Mexico
SECRETS AURA COZUMEL
THE BASICS Airport Proximity Cozumel International (CZM), 20 mins.
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A
t Secrets Aura Cozumel, couples say and celebrate their vows in a
storybook setting. Located on the
Rooms & Suites 238
beautiful southern shores of tropical
Max Group Size 200 outdoor/150 indoor
Cozumel, the award-winning resort rates
Onsite Coordinator Yes
as the island’s most intimate, adults-only
Room Rates Contact for a quote.
getaway, known for its luxuriously
Reservations 866.GOSECRETS
laid-back vibe and heartfelt hospitality.
Wedding Contact weddings.seacz@secretsresorts.com
philosophy, guests at Secrets Aura
inspired backdrops for a wedding. Most
Website secretsresorts.com/aura-cozumel
Cozumel feel pampered at every turn,
couples pledge forever under the resort’s
starting with their choice of 238 elegant
pier palapa, overlooking the turquoise
suites. Many feature swim-up access and
Caribbean Sea, followed by a memorable
private pools and all provide such perks
private reception on the beach, poolside,
as 24-hour room and concierge service,
or at another unique location of choice.
mood setting turndown service and
One of three wedding packages is free,
mini-bars refreshed daily. Mere steps
(with minimum qualifications) and all
away, couples can enjoy gourmet dining
include the services of a professional
in five restaurants, bottomless premium
coordinator, who ensures that brides and
drinks in three bars and lounges and
grooms enjoy their fairytale event without
limitless activities, day or night.
a care in the world.
Thanks to Secrets’ Unlimited-Luxury
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The resort offers no shortage of
Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico
CO
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WHAT
SECRETS CAPRI RIVIERA CANCUN
“We could not have asked for a more perfect wedding. The staff is absolutely amazing, from the time you arrive to when you depart. We recommend this resort to anybody considering a destination wedding or romantic getaway.”
S
teeped in the vibrant culture and natural splendor of the Riviera Maya,
the AAA Four Diamond Award–winning Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun woos Mexico lovers with classical Mediterranean architecture, hacienda-inspired accommodations and magnificent sea views. The concierge-style, adults-only
second largest barrier reef. Thanks to the
resort reigns over 71 acres of beachfront
resort brand’s concept of Unlimited-
THE BASICS
property close to Playa del Carmen.
Luxury, nonmotorized ocean sports and
Airport Proximity Cancún International (CUN), 35 min.
suites feature four-poster king or double
carte service of fine food and beverages.
beds, marble baths with jetted whirlpools
The personalized attention from the
Aaron & Katie
Rooms & Suites 290 Max Group Size 150 outdoor/indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates Contact for a quote. Reservations 866.GOSECRETS Wedding Contact weddings.secrc@secretsresorts.com Website secretsresorts.com/capri-riviera-cancun
Luxuriously appointed rooms and
other activities are complimentary as is à la
and private patios. As Secrets’ only
Secrets Capri team extends to every
Preferred Club property, the resort treats
wedding arranged here, with professionals
all guests to such special amenities as a
making such details as the decor and
personal concierge, fruit and sparkling
catering their highest priority. Three distinct
wine upon arrival and daily refreshments.
wedding packages, one of them
Mere steps from the rooms, couples
complimentary, allow couples to customize
find an expansive pool area and miles of
their dream event, choosing from a long list
white-sand beach—flanked by the world’s
of services and special touches.
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Playa Mujeres, Quintana Roo, Mexico
CO
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WHAT
THE BELOVED HOTEL PLAYA MUJERES
“Our wedding planner made our event even more amazing than we dreamed it could be. The staff, accommodations and level of service received during our stay were impeccable.” Matthew & Ashley
THE BASICS Airport Proximity Cancún International (CUN), 25 min. Rooms & Suites 109 suites Max Group Size 40 outdoor/indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates US$488 (all-inclusive) Reservations 866.540.2585 (US), 866.451.1592 (CAN) Wedding Contact groups1@grupoexcellence.com Website belovedhotels.com
W
ho could resist a chance to marry
include spa pampering, varied dining at a
or honeymoon at The Beloved
choice of four restaurants and long hours
Hotel? Aside from a name that
of relaxation on the beach. More active
underscores the hotel’s devotion to
types opt for workouts at the fitness
romance, the five-star, all-inclusive
center, fishing, boating and seaside golf.
getaway provides a tranquil beachfront
The hotel opens its arms to children as
stay in Playa Mujeres, greater Cancún’s
well, and offers a complimentary Kids
newest luxury resort destination.
Club and full roster of pint-sized fun.
With just 109 suites, the hotel specializes in personalized service and amenities. While all accommodations come with marble bathrooms, complimentary Wi-Fi and furnished terraces, several of the eight suite categories heighten the luxury with options like swim-up access, private plunge pools and rooftop terraces. Couples often choose to wed on the beach, of course, or they may select a restaurant or lounge for celebrations with boutique-style ambiance. Additional highlights of a Beloved experience
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Playa Mujeres, Quintana Roo, Mexico
CO
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WHAT
EXCELLENCE PLAYA MUJERES
“We had an amazing wedding ceremony. Our coordinator took care of everything and made it perfect. Our minister was great, and the pictures and the video turned out fantastic.”
E
xcellence Playa Mujeres exceeds even the highest expectations for
natural beauty. Cradled between lush jungle and pristine beaches on an untouched 20-mile peninsula adjoining a national wildlife preserve, this haven promises ultimate seclusion and
saunas, Roman caldariums, ice therapy and
romance. Guests disappear in a
more for a relaxing break after playing a
THE BASICS
relaxed, adults-only atmosphere of
round of golf or exploring the nearby ruins.
all-inclusive luxury. Just 15 minutes
At Excellence Playa Mujeres, couples say
Airport Proximity Cancún International (CUN), 25 min.
away, Cancún entices visitors with
“I do” before a backdrop of radiant sea and
world-class shopping, restaurants and
powder-white sand. The resort offers a
cultural attractions.
bridal package that is complimentary with a
Dustin & Jennifer
Rooms & Suites 450 Max Group Size 70 outdoor/indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates From US$526 (all-inclusive) Reservations 866.540.2585 (US), 866.451.1592 (CAN) Wedding Contact groups2@grupoexcellence.com Website excellence-resorts.com
Top-notch amenities and service
seven-night stay in an Excellence Club
guarantee an unforgettable escape.
Junior Suite Ocean View or higher-category
Guests can treat themselves to a swim-up
accommodation. It includes the
suite with direct pool access or splurge on
personalized assistance of a wedding
a junior suite—complete with a rooftop
specialist, services of a civil judge or
terrace, private plunge pool and
nondenominational minister, help with
panoramic views. The Spa at Excellence
preparing nuptial attire, a wedding cake
Playa Mujeres features authentic Swedish
and sparkling wine.
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Playa Mujeres, Quintana Roo, Mexico
FINEST PLAYA MUJERES
THE BASICS Airport Proximity Cancún International (CUN), 25 mins.
G
reater Cancún’s only luxury resort to welcome all ages in all-inclusive
fashion, the new Finest Playa Mujeres
Rooms & Suites 450 suites
specializes in quality time for families and
Max Group Size 120 outdoor/indoor
couples alike. The resort’s thoughtful
Onsite Coordinator weddings1.fpm@finestresorts.com
layout provides places and privileges for every member of the party—from
full-service spa, which also offers
Room Rates US$594
children’s pools and playgrounds to
hairstyling and makeup application for
Reservations 866.540.2585
adults-only accommodations in the
bridal parties.
Wedding Contact groups@grupoexcellence.com
Excellence Club. Two additional room
Website finestresorts.com
categories excel at entertaining guests of
couples may take their vows on the
all ages. All come with every desirable
beach beneath an ocean-side altar, in
amenity, options such as swim-up access
a picturesque events plaza or in the
and plunge pools, 24-hour room service
ballroom. Wedding or honeymoon
and more.
package, one of them complimentary
The resort’s oceanfront location
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When the big moment arrives,
when booking specific room categories,
seamlessly lends itself to beach and water
ensure carefree decision-making.
sports, including introductory scuba
Optional services, like torchlit beach
lessons. With nine all-inclusive international
dinners for two and even fireworks, can
dining choices and 17 bars, refreshment is
be added to any package to complete
always at hand. So, too, is pampering in the
the celebration.
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Playa Mujeres, Quintana Roo, Mexico
HOTEL EL RESORT GANZO SECRETS PLAYA MUJERES GOLF & SPA
THE BASICS
I
n a privileged, gated community on
nightly entertainment. Plus, couples can
Mexico’s Riviera Maya, couples find the
savor romantic meals in the privacy of
Airport Proximity Cancún International (CUN), 35 mins.
newly opened Secrets Playa Mujeres Golf
their suite or at water’s edge, while the
Rooms & Suites 424
& Spa Resort. Set on the sparkling sands
sun sets across the horizon.
Max Group Size 200 indoor/outdoor
of Playa Mujeres, 10 minutes from
Onsite Coordinator Yes
Cancún, this getaway is reserved for
resort choose among several stunning
Room Rates Contact for a quote.
adults only, promising couples a peaceful
locations. Most couples say “I do” on the
Reservations 866-GOSECRETS
and luxurious destination for their
world-famous Playa Mujeres, followed by a
Wedding Contact weddings.secpm@secretsresorts.com
wedding or romantic escape.
reception either right on the beach, on one
Website secretsresorts.com/playa-mujeres
views of the surrounding sea-scape and
Brides and grooms tying the knot at the
Each of the 424 upscale suites takes in
of the terraces or inside the grand ballroom.
comes with a private balcony or terrace, comfy king-size bed, stocked minibar and bath with a soaking tub for two. Just outside, guests find a long list of activities, in and out of the water, most of them complimentary as part of the Secrets’ Unlimited-Luxury philosophy. Unlimited-Luxury also covers gourmet food in eight restaurants, including five à la carte venues, top-shelf spirits and
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Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo, Mexico
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WHAT
DREAMS RIVIERA CANCUN RESORT & SPA
“Everything was perfect. The resort grounds are meticulously maintained. The food was delicious. It was our ‘Dreams’ wedding.” Jim & Jaime
THE BASICS Airport Proximity Cancún International (CUN), 20 min. Rooms & Suites 486 Max Group Size 250 outdoor/indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates Contact for a quote. Reservations 886.2DREAMS Wedding Contact weddings.drerc@dreamsresorts.com Website dreamsresorts.com/riviera-cancun
L
ocated in the historic Riviera Maya, between laid-back Playa del Carmen
With multiple stunning wedding
and bustling Cancún, Dreams Riviera
venues and custom bridal packages to
Cancun Resort & Spa promises couples
choose from, events at the resort are
the best of both worlds. Guests at the
nothing short of spectacular. Packages—
Unlimited-Luxury escape can relax in a
one of them complimentary—include a
romantic setting of sun-drenched
professional wedding coordinator to
swimming pools, palm-fringed sands and
handle catering, decor and all the details
lush tropical gardens, or they can fill their
in between. Plus, honeymooners who
day with activities like ocean sports, golf
book seven nights or more earn
and tours around the Yucatán peninsula.
complimentary nights toward a return
The resort’s unique octagonal rooms and suites come with private Jacuzzis and balconies facing the sea, pool or gardens. Guests also enjoy spacious living areas, cozy beds and minibars refreshed daily. As part of Dreams’ exclusive Unlimited-Luxury privileges, around-theclock room service is complimentary, as are gourmet cuisine and premium brand drinks in eight theme restaurants, a buffet
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and six lounges and bars.
Find the best deals at WeddingLocation.com
stay for their first anniversary.
Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo, Mexico
CO
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WHAT
EXCELLENCE RIVIERA CANCUN
“The Excellence staff did everything you can imagine to make our wedding day magic. It’s a moment we will remember for the rest of our lives.” Adam & Amanda
THE BASICS Airport Proximity Cancún International (CUN), 15 min. Rooms & Suites 440 Max Group Size 120 outdoor/indoor Onsite Coordinator Yes Room Rates From US$462 (all-inclusive) Reservations 866.540.2585 (US), 866.451.1592 (CAN) Wedding Contact groups2@grupoexcellence.com Website excellence-resorts.com
F
ew Riviera Maya resorts afford the
Club Junior Suite Ocean View or higher-
seclusion of Excellence Riviera
category accommodation. It comes with the
Cancun. Embraced by bridal-white sands
personalized assistance of a wedding planner,
and the strikingly blue Caribbean Sea,
services of a civil judge or nondenominational
the all-inclusive, adults-only resort is an
minister, help with preparing nuptial attire, a
oasis of romance near Mexico’s most
wedding cake and sparkling wine. As part of
popular island playgrounds, Cancún and
the package, couples exchange vows on the
Playa del Carmen.
beach or in the resort’s oceanfront gazebo,
Bridal couples get a taste of the good
and then enjoy romantic honeymoon treats.
life in 440 high-end suites, complete with
The selection of upgrades available includes
marble baths, terraces and private
cocktail receptions, hairstyling and
Jacuzzis. Outside, six winding pools
pampering spa treatments.
stretch over 8,000 square feet. Guests also have access to a fitness center and spa along with dance classes, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba lessons and beach parties. On the wedding day, the staff stands by to fulfill any dreams for the special event. The resort offers a bridal package that is free with a seven-night stay in an Excellence
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Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo, Mexico
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WHAT
NOW JADE RIVIERA CANCUN
“We had an amazing wedding and are 100 percent happy with everything. Now Jade is a great, beautiful resort.” Donna & Glen
THE BASICS
ambience and natural beauty that
envelop Now Jade Riviera Cancun. Sprawled along a pristine stretch of white-sand beach in Puerto Morelos, 30 minutes from Cancún’s hotel zone, the Unlimited-Luxury escape enchants couples with 550 sumptuous suites, a
Airport Proximity Cancún International (CUN), 20 min.
luxurious Preferred Club, multiple
Rooms & Suites 550
limitless activities in and out of the water.
Max Group Size 120 outdoor/80 indoor
themed restaurants and bars and Days can be spent unwinding
Wedding couples find themselves in a world of laid-back luxury, where they can
Onsite Coordinator Yes
poolside or on the half-mile-long beach
relax as the resort’s professional event
Room Rates Contact for a quote.
that flanks the deluxe resort. Many
staff sees to all the nuptial details. Several
Reservations 877.NOW.9953
guests sign up for nonmotorized
wedding packages are available, as are
watersports, like snorkeling, kayaking
numerous options to personalize the
and windsurfing, or they explore Cancún,
celebration. All packages include the
Playa del Carmen—20 minutes away by
services of a wedding coordinator, the
car—as well as nearby Mayan ruins.
bride’s bouquet, use of the gazebo or
Others escape to the spa to relax with a
beach area for the ceremony, a sparkling
side-by-side massage.
wine toast and many special extras.
Wedding Contact weddings.nojrc@nowresorts.com Website nowresorts.com/jade
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F
ew resorts rival the exclusive
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Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo, Mexico
CO
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WHAT
SECRETS SILVERSANDS RIVIERA CANCUN
“Our wedding was perfect. It was absolutely wonderful and went so smoothly.” Kristin & Judd
THE BASICS
O
n Mexico’s scenic Yucatán coast, the AAA Four Diamond Award–winning
Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun fuses modern sophistication with the exclusive privileges of Unlimited-Luxury. Perched on a narrow peninsula framed by bright white sands and turquoise water, this
Airport Proximity Cancún International (CUN), 15 min.
adults-only, 433-suite paradise transports
rants and premium bars are included in the
lovers to a tropical haven that appears
price. Also part of the property: 43,000
Rooms & Suites 433
hundreds of miles away from it all.
square feet of swimming pools and full-
Max Group Size 200 outdoor/300 indoor
Contemporary elegant suite accommo-
service Secrets Spa by Pevonia.
Onsite Coordinator Yes
dations include Jacuzzis for two, suspended
Room Rates Contact for a quote.
beds, custom lighting, as well as 24-hour
in a contemporary gazebo, beautifully
Reservations 866.GOSECRETS
room service. Those who stay in the resort’s
decorated with fresh flowers. The resort
Wedding Contact weddings.sesrc@secretsresorts.com
Preferred Club also enjoy private check-in
offers several packages to suit a variety of
Website secretsresorts.com/silversandsriviera-cancun
and checkout, fruit and sparkling wine upon
needs, all including a wedding planner,
arrival and a private lounge serving
hair and makeup for the bride and 15
afternoon hors d’oeuvres.
percent discount on spa services. Secrets
Brides and grooms can exchange vows
Thanks to Secrets’ Unlimited-Luxury
Ultimate Wedding Package adds such
philosophy, most activities along with food
special touches as a Mexican music trio
and beverages at eight gourmet restau-
and spa treatments for two.
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101
Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico
CO
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WHAT
Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa
“We had a magical wedding day. Our coordinator and the staff created a sensational day for us. We would not change a thing.” Mike & Allison
THE BASICS
ancient Mayans built their world-famous
pyramids, couples find a luxurious retreat in Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa. Here, high-end amenities and gracious service are complemented by expansive, glistening pools, tropical foliage and two miles of diamond-white sands. Guests can enjoy all that the resort has to
Airport Proximity Cancún International (CUN), 70 min.
offer through Dreams’ Unlimited-Luxury
Rooms & Suites 432
program, where everything couples desire
Max Group Size 250 outdoor/indoor
is included. Visitors choose among gourmet
Onsite Coordinator Yes
food and premium brand beverages in
Room Rates Contact for a quote.
seven international restaurants and six
Reservations 866.2DREAMS
lounges. The global culinary journey ranges
Wedding Contact weddings.dretu@dreamsresorts.com Website dreamsresorts.com/tulum
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I
n the mystical town of Tulum, where
from Mediterranean specialties at Portofino
The privileges of Unlimited-Luxury
to Chinese and Thai cuisine at Himitsu, sushi
extend to the elegant accommodations
at Gohan, an international buffet at World
with either contemporary decor or classic
Café, authentic Mexican favorites at El Patio,
hacienda style. All come layered with the
casual lunches at Barefoot Grill and candlelit
thoughtful appointments that make couples
French masterpieces at Bordeaux.
feel right at home, including a furnished
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Location
PROPERTY NAME
catamarans, an ocean trampoline, even a floating iceberg wall. Land-based options range from tennis to dance lessons, while weekly beach parties, moonlit themed parties and live shows turn up the heat when the sun goes down. With a selection of bridal packages and venues—including two beach locations, tropical gardens and an intimate Spanishstyle wedding chapel—nuptials at the resort are tailored to fit the unique dreams of each couple. While the event staff oversees all arrangements, brides and grooms can just relax and focus on each other. A complimentary bridal registry allows couples patio or balcony—many with a hammock for
The inclusive policy also goes on to
to express their honeymoon wishes online as
idling away the hours. Preferred Club Junior
include a range of complimentary activities
well. Extras like couple’s massage, scuba
Suites feature ocean views and personal
for couples and their guests to enjoy. One
diving, deep-sea fishing and tours to
Jacuzzis. Guestrooms in the Hacienda
focal point: the huge freeform pool. But
fascinating Mayan ruins and exotic eco-parks
Collection promise similar comforts along
with the ocean mere steps away, many are
sweeten the memories of any destination
with classy, colonial-style decor.
drawn offshore for fun with kayaks,
wedding or honeymoon.
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Solidaridad, Quintana Roo, Mexico
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SECRETS MAROMA BEACH RIVIERA CANCUN
“We had a wonderful experience. The resort and staff were incredible, and our wedding coordinator did an excellent job.” Melissa & Michael
THE BASICS
R
esting along the shores of Mexico’s Yucatán peninsula, Secrets Maroma
Beach Riviera Cancun treats couples to 500 acres of tropical foliage, crystal-clear waters and pristine white-sand beach. For adults only, the 100-acre property houses 412 suites surrounded by 12 smaller swimming pools and a shimmering infinity
Airport Proximity Cancún International (CUN), 20 min.
pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
Rooms & Suites 412
Award–winning resort are sumptuously
Max Group Size 120 outdoor/150 indoor
designed with four-poster beds, double
may customize their fantasy wedding with
Onsite Coordinator Yes
Jacuzzis and private balconies or patios.
the help of three different bridal
Room Rates Contact for a quote.
Couples also enjoy Secrets’ Unlimited-
packages, one of them complimentary.
Reservations 866.GOSECRETS
Luxury policy, where everything is
They can choose from several ceremony
included, from gourmet food at eight à la
and receptions sites, among these a
carte theme restaurants to premium drinks
wedding gazebo, the beach and a grand
at seven bars to numerous activities, such
ballroom. As a bonus, the resort offers
as snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing and
web cam services so that those unable to
beachfront rehearsal dinners.
attend the wedding can enjoy the
Wedding Contact weddings.semrc@secretsresorts.com Website secretsresorts.com/maromabeach-riviera-cancun
All suites at this AAA Four Diamond
For the big day, brides and grooms
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Find the best deals at WeddingLocation.com
ceremony live from anywhere in the world.
Unlimited-Luxury® Exclusive Meets Inclusive:
COMPLIMENTARY WEDDING PLANNER LUXURIOUS OCEANFRONT SUITES WITH PRIVATE TERRACES
ESCAPE INTO LUXURY.
PREFERRED CLUB WITH EXCLUSIVE UPGRADES LIMITLESS GOURMET DINING, SNACKS & TOP-SHELF SPIRITS SIP, SAVOR & SEE MULTI-RESORT DINING UNLIMITED CONNECTIVITY: FREE WIFI AND CALLING TO THE U.S. & CANADA
COMPLIMENTARY GREENS FEES LIVE SHOWS NIGHTLY WORLD CLASS SPAS Additional fees may apply
It’s more than the romantic settings that make Secrets Resorts & Spas so magical. Your wedding at any of our all-adult oceanfront sanctuaries offers you and your guests all the inclusions of Unlimited-Luxury ® so everyone can enjoy as much of everything as they wish. Providing infinite pleasure is our secret. How you enjoy it is yours.
Visit SecretsResorts.com to learn about complimentary packages, ceremony gazebos, stunning reception décor and more. EXPERIENCE UNLIMITED-LUXURY ® FOR ALL-ADULT ROMANCE IN COSTA RICA (NOV 2015) | DOMINICAN REPUBLIC: CAP CANA (JAN 2017) • PUNTA CANA | JAMAICA: MONTEGO BAY MEXICO: AKUMAL (NOV 2015) • CANCUN • COZUMEL • HUATULCO • LOS CABOS • PLAYA MUJERES • PUERTO VALLARTA • RIVIERA CANCUN | PANAMA (DEC 2015)
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