Opulence in paradise i do jamaica 2016

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE JAMAICA BRIDAL EXPO

Opulence How to Achieve

in

PARADISE

Wedding Day Prep

Together

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final weddingsmbj@royaltonresorts.com · 1-877-687-7793 · www.royaltonresorts.com *Terms & Conditions: To take advantage of the four-night anniversary stay, weddings must be booked between September 1 to October 31, 2016, and take place September 1 - October 31, 2017. Additional nights can be booked for $125 per room, per night, maximum three nights. Additional terms and restrictions apply. Anniversary certificates will be issued following the wedding and must be booked directly through the resort for travel in September or October 2018, based on availability. †Free Wedding Package is based on 5 rooms (10 guests), staying for a minimum of 7 nights. Other conditions apply.

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Message from the:

JAMAICA TOURIST BOARD

T

he Jamaica Tourist Board

is pleased to be partnering once again with the Jamaica Bridal Expo.

The Jamaica Bridal Expo creates the perfect platform for wedding specialists to showcase their products and services while offering prospective brides, grooms and their friends a multitude of choices, ideas and alternatives for planning their wedding.

I congratulate the organizers for bringing everything prospective newlyweds will need to complete their day all in one place from booking your venue and photographer to ordering your cake and choosing invitations. They have

definitely continued to improve on previous stagings.

Jamaica is the perfect destination for weddings offering everything from resorts to villas and enchanted gardens to beaches, all forming the perfect wedding backdrop.

I hope that the presentations at this year’s expo will surpass your expectations and you will find the pieces needed to create the story board for a memorable Jamaican wedding.

Yours sincerely,

PAUL PENNICOOK DIRECTOR OF TOURISM

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Message from the:

JAMAICA BRIDAL EXPO TEAM

W

elcome to the 5th staging of the Jamaica Bridal Expo; the unique networking event developed to showcase Jamaica as premier destination for weddings, honeymoons and romance. For the third year in a row, we are hosting the Wedding Conference which is open to wedding professionals at all levels.

create the Jamaica Bridal Expo.

The creation of the Jamaica Bridal Expo arose from a solid collaboration between three visible and successful individuals in the wedding and event planning industry. With expertise in the areas of destination wedding planning, event design, event management and production the team came together to

We thank the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB)! This event has become an international calendar event and the number one bridal show in Jamaica. The support of the JTB and the Ministry of Tourism have been instrumental in making that posible.

The management team is truly appreciative of, and sincerely thanks our sponsors and exhibitors who are participating in this years’ expo. Without you, it would not have been possible.

To our patrons; we appreciate your support and trust that the expo has exceeded your expectations.

A special thank you to the Montego Bay Convention Centre

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- the most prestigious centre in the Caribbean which also boasts some amazing locations that are fit for celebrity weddings.

Thank you to Ms. Dittie Guise and her amazing team for always supporting the Jamaica Bridal Expo.

And finally to every individual or entity which has contributed in any way to the success of this year’s staging, thank you for contributing to and sharing this experience with us. We look forward to producing the Jamaica Bridal Expo for many years to come.

Sincerely,

JO-ANNE PAXTON, PETER SHOUCAIR J.P., KATHY-ANNE EVERHART EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS

JAMAICA

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ANTIGUA

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SAINT LUCIA

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palette, to the flowers, décor and cake. Or celebrate with the elegant simplicity of a complimentary* Beautiful Beginnings wedding. Whatever your dream wedding looks like, our personal wedding planners will be there to help, every step of the way. And after your vows have been exchanged your honeymoon begins-in a world where everything is included. It’s the perfect start to the perfect marriage.

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*Complimentary with stays of 3 paid nights or more, includes all room categories. Reception is for bride, groom and up to six guests. All weddings are subject to mandatory marriage officant and government documentation fees, which vary by island. All fees subject to change at anytime. Offer subject to change. Sandals® is a registered trademark. Unique Vacations, Inc. is the affiliate of the worldwide representative of Sandals Resorts.

e u ss I s i h T n I 14 How to Achieve Opulence in Paradise

50 Paradise Awaits @ Jewel Resorts (Feature)

24 Over-the-Top Head Tables

53 Bliss Bridal Trunk Show (Feature)

27 Choosing Your Culinary Service Style

56 Dressing the Groom from Head to Toe

30 Formal Dining: Table Settings & Etiquette

60 Dressing the Bride from Head to Toe

36 Cake Coutourist Extraordinaire (Feature) 38 Standing Out from the Wedding Crowd

70 The Digital Domain.. and a Cover Shot in the Making

42 4 Easy Steps to Opulent Weddings

72 5 Over-the-Top Wedding Invitations

46 Quest to Create Lavish Island Weddings

76 Pets Play Their Part..

64 Wedding Day Prep

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COVER CREDITS PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION - BLUE HOLE, JAMAICA Blue Hole, also known as “Secret Falls” is located 25 minutes away from the Ocho Rios port.

To reach this hidden treasure you’ll traverse hilly terrain on a scenic drive to the secluded and relatively untouched falls. Swim in the pools; swing on the Tarzan rope; explore small caves, and much more at Blue Hole — the true definition of paradise!

COVER MODEL - AMY MORRISON Amy is a bonafide Jamaican who is passionate about her profession and country. A skilled make-up artist, she is furthering her career by becoming certified and has been scouted by one of the largest modeling agencies in the world. Her future in both endeavours is as bright as her natural un-assumed beauty!

FLOWERS - TAI FLORA DRESS - BLISS BRIDAL PHOTOGRAPHER - MAX EARLE

40 80 Unique Entertaiment Options for Extravagant Weddings 84 The Evolution of Wedding Transportation 88 Protecting Premarital Assets 91 Port of Call. Love: Final Destination Jamaica 96 Bridal Expo 2015 Highlights

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Credits PUBLISHER Pelican Publishers

EDITORIAL & CREATIVE DIRECTOR Meleisa Witter EDITOR Alicea James MARKETING / SALES Pelican Publishers DESIGN & LAYOUT Tamiko Blake Nicole Williams Yakub Grant PHOTOGRAPHY LoveMore Photos Joe Buissink Jennifer Davis Photography YorkAli Walters Jonathan Ivy CONTRIBUTORS Alicea James Kylie Carson Angela Proffitt Jacqueline Vazquez Claudeen Stewart Max Earle Simone Sant-Ghuran YorkAli Walters Meleisa Witter The Jamaica Bridal Expo magazine is published annually at the behest of the Jamaica Bridal Expo Team. © 2016 Pelican Publishers Limited No part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronically or mechanically, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage retrieval system without written permission from the publishers.

Note from the Publisher We sincerely thank all our sponsors who have added to the diversity and beauty of the magazine and have contributed to its success. It has been our pleasure to serve you and we look forward to even greater things next year! Looking ahead, we are already planning a fifth anniversary milestone special –more details to come.

Creating this issue of the Jamaica Bridal Expo’s official magazine I Do Jamaica, themed Opulence in Paradise was a beautiful experience. We connected with many wonderful, talented people - both locally and internationally versed in the art of creating opulence in diverse ways.

Brides-to-be, wedding industr y professionals, and just about anyone with an interest in any of the areas covered will be enlightened and enthralled by the nuggets of advice, and depth of information covered in the articles. The editorial and design teams at Pelican Publishers pulled out all the stops and as creativity flowed like fine wine – we worked hard to ensure every page would be worth your viewing time.

Heads-up: we are admittedly unashamed that in keeping with our theme, we have focused on concepts of opulence and things over-the-top! But we know that weddings are special occasions and so we insist that you get the information on how to execute them right.

Finally, Pelican Publishers heartily congratulates the Jamaica Bridal Expo team on another successful staging of the event! Continue to grow from strength to strength.

Salud!

Meleisa Witter EDITORIAL & CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Opulence How to achieve

paradise

in

Angela Proffitt

Photos by: Jennifer Davis Photography & Joe Buissink

When you’re planning a wedding to create opulence in paradise, a dream destination can turn into a disaster if you don’t know how to prioritize your initiatives. You aren’t choosing the specifications of an all-inclusive wedding package. It’s the details, personal touches and accommodations that distinguish a luxury occasion.

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o ensure you don’t experience trouble in paradise, here are some tips that will help keep your I’s dotted and your T’s crossed:

Photos by: Jennifer Davis Photography

Set the tone From the get go, you want your guests to know that they will be experiencing a luxurious occasion. For one bride, how we achieved that was to send a bottle of wine that was foiled in a custom, wooden-carved box to each guest. They got the idea very quickly that they were about to party opulently in paradise!

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CommuniCate travel PlanS A luxury wedding is more than a ceremony and a reception. Friends and family who don’t really know each other are essentially vacationing together, so you’ll want to do a few things:

1.

Collaborate with a travel agent

to help streamline communication.

2.

3.

Prepare an itinerary for guests.

Ensure guests are comfortable

from arrival to departure.

In my experience, I’ve found that making travel arrangements with private charter planes are cheaper than booking separate flights for dozens of guests. And some resorts maintain private runways with VIP lounges for getting through customs.

Keep in mind that not all guests are well-travelled. I had a bride whose family hardly left the state she was from, and we had to communicate the steps for securing passports, getting through security and other travel details they have never had to consider.

KeeP GueStS entertained Work with the resort to have a schedule of activities for guests to enjoy.

Since many of them will be meeting each another for the first time, plan a welcome party so they can get acquainted. For the rest of their trip, have a list of fun options ready, such as sunset cruises, dance lessons and spa days.

leveraGe the reSourCeS on the iSland Ideally, you need to do a site visit, but if your schedule doesn’t allow for one, you will have to ask plenty of questions and prepare to think outside of the box. I had a bride who wanted food stations in the pool, something that was never done before at one resort, but the staff was able to make arrangements for us to use rust-free tables for a cocktail party.

no requeSt iS ever too BiG The last thing a bride wants to hear is that you “can’t do something.” If you aren’t able to leverage resources on the island, you can make other arrangements. A bride I worked with wanted a chandelier at the reception. When the resort sent me pictures of what they had available, I knew it wouldn’t meet the bride’s expectations, so I worked with a company to have one shipped to the destination. The company rented a 200-pound chandelier to us and made a video teaching the event staff how to hang it. It took 45 days to have the chandelier sent to the island and 10 days to get it. Plan accordingly!

The opportunity to plan a luxurious destination wedding is a reflection of the elegance, taste and dignity of your client and the service you provide. It’s a chance to create something unique and memorable that speaks to the splendor of the occasion and can provide a source for future business referrals.

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Over-the-tOp head tables Simone Sant-Ghuran Founder and Editor-in-Chief, Trinidad Weddings

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hen we think about decadent head tables, we might envision a couple ensconced under romantic fabric draping, aglow with the flicker of candlelight, and enveloped by a carpet of rose petals. Other couples, however, may have far different ideas of what “over-the-top� means to them.

No matter what a couple’s personal preference, when it comes to a wedding’s design and style, the reception focal points that are usually the stars of the show are: the receiving table, the cake table and the head table.

Traditionally, the head table consists of the bridal party, along with the bride and groom. Couples who prefer a more intimate setting may opt for sweetheart tables, which accommodate just the bride and groom.

There is also a third option that is gaining popularity – the king’s table, also called the feasting or courtyard table. This is a large square table that is arranged in the centre of the reception area. Due to its size (usually two or more, eight foot rectangular tables joined together), it can accommodate not only the bride, groom and bridal party but other family members as well.

Here are some recent trends for creating stand-out, stylish head tables: Suspended decor - Accents from ‘up above’ are ideal for creating a dramatic flourish that couples crave. Whether it’s a beaded curtain, a lush canopy of greenery, a cascading floralscape, suspended geometric shapes or a sparkling chandelier; having that surprising floating element is going to ensure that your guests will look up in awe.

Custom floral walls or floral frames Whether the walls are made of lush blooms or over-sized, handmade paper flowers; floral walls or floral frames (a wire or wooden frame festooned with flowers) stationed behind head tables, are delightfully impactful.

Lighting - The old-world charm of tabletop candelabra and grand candlesticks are both making a huge comeback for weddings at the moment. Couples who prefer a more urban-contemporary feel

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might prefer hanging strings of Edison bulbs behind a head table. More traditional couples can select the glow of amber uplighting on the head table orunderneath it. There is also the lighting effect of ‘wall washing,’which can have tremendous impact behind the head table.

Bolder furniture choices - Many couples are accentuating their head tables with unusual or unexpected furniture selections. Antique tables, velvet chairs, plush art deco loveseats and contemporary lucitepieces are now hot accessories for head tables. More attention is also being paid to the detail on bride and groom’s chairs, with the incorporation of banners or pennants, cameos, typography, elaboratechair coverings and luxe metallic or textured table linens.

Props - Head tables are being made more dramatic with the addition of a ‘supporting cast.’This includesornate mirrors which flank both sides of the head tables, towering florals, lighted life-size letters, a decorated chalkboard or a wall of ribbons.

For more visual inspiration, check the Trinidad Weddings’ Pinterest board here: https://www.pinterest.com/trinidadwedding/weddingdecor-ideas/ and their website here: www.trinidadweddings.com

Culinary Choosing Your

SERVICE STYLE Alicea James

A

n amazing reception involves varied elements. An essential one is impeccable culinary service. It is important that the service type chosen blends seamlessly with the theme and tone of your wedding. Hence, the formality of your event and the amount of guests expected must be taken into consideration. We have identified the most common styles and suggested the best circumstances under which to use each.

Buffet This is ideal for both small and large settings and it matters not what time of day your event is scheduled to take place. For this service style, the food is displayed on large tables where guests can freely view and select the dishes they want, and how much food they want.

Since there is no one controlling the food portions you will need to have plenty of food on hand. There’s no greater disaster at a reception than running out of food before everyone is served. To make sure that the buffet style runs smoothly, assign a number to each

table and let this numbering determine whose turn it is at the buffet.

Plated This is perfect for an ultra-elegant affair and is a very traditional option for weddings. For this option, the food is dished out behind the scenes and served to guests by a team of waiters.

Guests will need to be apprised of menu ahead of the meal service to ensure a smooth function. In fact, ideally, they should be informed ahead of the wedding day. At least 2-3 food options should be provided.

Action Station This is an updated version of a buffet style setting, which allows you to control the food quantity. Although guests have to collect their food at the food stations, there is wait staff by the buffet who share the food for each guest. This option allows for quick service because you can add several action stations throughout the venue.

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Family Style Certainly not an ideal option for a grandiose wedding; as the name suggest this service style works best for small intimate occasions with family and friends. For this option servers bring out large platters of food and place them on the tables, then guests serve themselves and pass around the platter, much like what happens during a holiday dinner or other special family meal. Many backyard or beach weddings utilize this option.

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Dining Formal

Table Settings & Etiquette Meleisa Witter

Formal dining, with its attendant rules–called protocols, is one sure way of displaying opulence. Most of these protocols are traditions which emerged from Europe centuries ago.

One of the things I love most about Western-centric formal dining is the profusion of porcelain, crystal, silver and linens on display. The old world charm and etiquette pertaining to how people are seated, and the order in which the meal is plated and served also exude opulence.

Photo Credit: Joe Buissink

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When You Arrive Upon arrival, you will be directed to your seating by a host/hostess in a more intimate setting, or a name card will be placed at your table at large gatherings. You may receive a menu or find one next to your place setting.

The event begins with cocktails, which last an hour or more.

Photo Credit: Joe Buissink

Table Décor Table runners, plates and cutlery are placed according to exact specifications: the edge of the table runner should be 1/2 inch from the table’s edge; plates one inch from the edge of the table; the handles of cutlery also one inch. Flower arrangements are at eye level and candelabras are so placed that everyone can make eye contact.

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Meals and Service

The number of courses for the meal varies. The

In keeping with the type of food to be served, a hot

traditional French meal is thirteen courses, but the

or cold plate is presented. Plates are served and

usual number today is between four and six courses.

cleared from the left side and one at a time. When

(The last dinner on the Titanic for first class guests

a used plate is removed, the waiting staff simultane-

contained ten courses).

ously replaces it with a fresh plate. As both hands are involved in this process, plate removal at formal

All food preparation, serving the meal and removal is

dinners is done one plate at a time.

completed by staff. Food service proceeds to the right, counter¬clockwise, starting with the guest of honor.

Beverages are served and cleared from the right side.

Beverage service progresses to the left, clockwise.

The goblet and wine glasses remain on the table throughout the entire meal. Only the sherry glass is

Individual portions are prearranged and presented

removed at the end of the course it accompanies.

on a platter. More courses usually mean smaller

With your permission, the butler will remove the

portions and less wine poured per course. Formal

wine glass if you inform him that you are allergic or

dining includes multiple courses and second helpings

prefer not to drink. If the same wine is offered over

are not offered. Once serve ware is taken from the

consecutive courses, it is served in the same glass.

dining room, it is not returned.

Photo Credit: Joe Buissink

Order of Service When there is an honored guest (in this instance- the bride, groom and wedding party), those guests are served first. Once the honored guests are served, service begins with the table next in line and moves counter-clockwise.

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Place Settings at Formal Dinners Because the number and type of courses vary, so too will the place settings. In the most formal of settings, the dessert fork and spoon are brought to the table for the dessert course. For less formal settings, the fork and spoon are placed on the table above the plate, fork pointing right, spoon pointing left. When more courses are going to be served, the table is laid only for soup, fish and meat.

After Dinner Liqueurs and Brandy and Demitasse Liqueurs, brandy and demitasse are all digestifs, taken after the meal, in a room separate from the dining area. Guests may join one another or women and men may take their drinks in separate rooms.

Liqueurs are often bitter as they brighten the palate after a lengthy, and sometimes, heavy meal. Liqueur and brandy may be offered during the coffee service or after.

Note to Guests: Hosting a formal dinner is expensive and time consuming—be appreciative

Source: https://www.gentlemansgazette.com/dinner-etiquette-formal-dining/

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Salad/Appetizer Fork Dinner Fork Bread Plate Butter Knife Salt Cellar Dessert Fork Dessert Spoon Soup Bowl Salad/Appetizer Plate Dinner Plate Charger Decorative Dinner Knife Soup Spoon Shrimp/Cocktail Fork Water Goblet Champagne Flute Red Wine Glass White Wine Glass

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Cake

‘coutourist’ extraordinaire

Camille Flimn, managing director and chief sugar artist of Cake Couture Jamaica, has been making bespoke cakes for diverse clientele for more than five years. Although wedding cakes are her specialty, her talents extend way beyond that.

This self-taught artist stumbled upon her profession when she began making 3-dimensional cakes for her children’s birthday parties. Attendees were often wowed by her designs and thus began her illustrious cake decorating journey.

This cake connoisseur has been asked to make edible art in the form of cars, wines, buildings, sports memorabilia, handbags and even a bucket of KFC! She likes to work with fondant, pastillage and gumpaste, as well as royal icing and chocolate. `

“I truly enjoy what I do and my excellence lies in the attention that I pay to detail.”

Camille Flimn

Her diverse clientele include high profilers such as Shaggy, Asafa Powell, BoJ, Edgechem, Omar Davis and Lisa Hanna.

Camille has also garnered some ‘miniature’ fans thanks to her custom cake designs made to replicate their cartoon characters—a hit at kids birthday parties.

Her cake replications are so convincing that one is truly challenged to believe they are edible. Additionally, they are breathtakingly beautiful and cause some sense of guilt to cut into the dazzling creations.

Camille Flimn’s talent has not gone unnoticed by her peers; she has been the winner of the WE Sweet Art Cake decorating live challenge since its inception.

As she continues on her deliciously successful journey, teaching is the next avenue she wishes to pursue so that she can pass on her knowledge to fellow enthusiasts.

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Wedding Professionals:

Standing Out from the Wedding Crowd Kylie Carson

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aunching a business usually starts off as just a dream, and then it slowly becomes a reality. Then, before you know it you’re staring down the barrel of your accounts statements wondering how on earth you’re going to make this dream of yours pay the bills.

In many ways we have more opportunities today to promote and market our business than ever before, but along with these chances comes the problem of a saturated marketplace and if you don’t know how to make your message stand out from the wedding crowd you will quickly get lost.

We all like to believe that what we’re offering is unique and different. We carefully craft our message to convey this in everything we say and do, but it is the delivery of this message that is going to make you stand out in the crowd.

Case in point - The Academy is an online education company offering E Learning certification courses to people in the wedding industry who want to become wedding planners, stylists and designers. We have a fair amount of competition, some better than others, but the point is we aren’t the only people doing it. We may well have a wonderful Advisory Board full of amazing wedding professionals, we may have the most up to date course content, and we may have some of the best instructors in the industry, but none of that matters if our ideal clients aren’t hearing or reading our message.

Our challenge was to come up with a unique way of being seen as the leaders in online certification courses for wedding professionals. How could we show our ideal client they would get an amazing learning experience with us, have access to the best course materials and have instructors teaching them who really knew their stuff?

Some would say write great blog posts, well we do that, but it isn’t really enough because everyone is doing that. It isn’t unique and it doesn’t make us stand out above our competition.

We started asking ourselves questions. What would a potential student want from us? How could we

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make ourselves more personable and available?

And then it hit us. Video!

We decided that our best bet of attracting attention was to take what we do every day and create short, free-to-air videos highlighting our expertise as educators in the wedding industry. After all there are 4 billion video views on YouTube every day, and when in doubt on how to do something, we are all guilty of looking for a video on YouTube to show us how. At the Academy we wanted a piece of this statistic and so Academy TV was born.

So how do we make it work? Each month we offer pertinent advice on a different topic including pricing, social media, marketing, running a wedding business and much more. We give just enough information to leave people wanting that little bit more.

than not it is you that people are buying. How you show your personality to people on social media is a big part of what sets you apart from others.

One idea would be to host your own online radio show using something like BlogTalkRadio. If being on radio is a little daunting then why not use Twitter, create your own hashtag and host a weekly Twitter Chat for Brides.

My favorite option is to create How To Podcasts for the busy bride, which showcase your knowledge and really place you as the expert. Podcasts can be downloaded from your site and listened to at a time and place that suits the listener.

The new kid on the block is Facebook’s Live Streaming App that lets you connect with your audience live directly from your Facebook Page.

It was genius. None of our competitors were doing it and it was a great way for us to showcase our knowledge and show our ideal clients who we really are.

Whatever option you like, the point is that all these media give you the opportunity to deliver your message in a unique and different way that will allow you to stand out from the crowd.

So how can you take this and use it to help you stand out from the wedding crowd? What can you do to differentiate yourself? What defines you?

Remember you have something that nobody else does – you. As a wedding professional more often

We live in a world where everyone wants to know the person behind the brand and all of these platforms allow your ideal client to get to know you in a more personal way, and find out who it is they would be doing business with.

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4 Easy Steps to

WEDDINGS Jacqueline Vazquez

Lifetime Events by Jacqueline Wedding & Event Planner, Detail Designer

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E

legantly styled, luxurious weddings have been on the rise. Whether you are having a small intimate event, or a grand lavish wedding, it’s all about the enhanced details - from custom made invitations and décor, to an extravagant venue. My idea of opulence is an elevated classic, yet traditional wedding, keeping in mind the couples’ personal statement.

Opulent weddings take it to the next level bringing heightened expectations and guest experiences.

Everything from a custom bridal gown to handcrafted invitations are some of the details that are carefully considered to enhance the experience. Create a wedding story which takes your guests along for the journey. Here are 4 easy steps to assist you in putting together the lavish and luxurious wedding you envision.

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1

First Impressions: Excitement is created by selecting an invitation which showcases everything from the formality of the wedding to the style. Details about color,

textures, and print finishes add to the elegance of the final product.

Be guided by the fact that the invitation is the first chapter of the story; it’s a small preview of what to expect.

2

Build Excitement: Having given your guests a glimpse of what is to come, it is necessary to follow through by showcasing grand entrances at the guests’ arrival.

You want the experience to be unique and beyond expectations.

Envision the first thing you want

your guests to experience, how will they be greeted and welcomed, what visual experience will they have first? This is where the next chapter of your wedding story continues; it’s time to bring the story to life.

Create a spectacular visual and emotional story from beginning to the end.

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3

The Experience: The next chapters of your wedding story define the “A Team - Wedding Professionals of Excellence” who will take your luxurious wedding to the next level. You want to select the best of the best. Get ready to create an atmosphere

which highlights all of the details to set the tone. At this stage make selections which include all five senses: sight, sound, tastes, smell, and touch. The selection process can include, linens which flow with the textured style of your wedding, a menu that is not just tasteful, but visually pleasing, designs which can include lighting and highlights of the venue space—from what hangs from the ceiling to what is showcased on or off the walls, and a selection of various entertainment pieces blending the sounds of this beautiful and romantic love story. Bring thought to even the most mundane detail such as how children will be entertained so they won’t get fussy – or will someone who may have to use a wheelchair have access.

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Your Gratitude: The final chapter of your story is your happy ending; but remember to include your guests in the happy ending. This starts with your final thank you to creating a great send-off leaving them with an extraordinary and overwhelming experience.

Main Photo by: Lovemore Photos

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The Quest to Create Lavish Island

Weddings Lanna L. Balkcom

When asked, “Why Jamaica?’ Lanna responded, I have served so many others including princes, princesses,

Early Beginnings

governors and even presidents as

I remember as a young girl, sitting

well as numerous other brides and

on the hill most people use to call

grooms elsewhere in the world. I

“Hopewell Bush,” looking out at

think it is time I brought some of

the sea and I would wish I knew

what I have learned and shared

what was beyond the line there.

with my fellow islanders.

Little did I know a few short years later, my life would take a turn for

It gives me great joy to return home

me to experience way beyond

and introduce to you ... Caribbean

that horizon. It was while at North

Bridal & Special Events - your Event

Western Academy and St. James

Planning Company, she continued

Business School that I got the

enthusiastically. We are dedicated

entertaining bug so I went to work

to our brides and grooms and other

for Village Tour and later became

clients and commit to create the

one of the cover girls for Focus

biggest WOW factor for whichever

on Jamaica. I learned all about

event they will host.

Jamaica taking tourists from one end of the island to the other; creating a fantastic experience for

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the guests as they experienced what our beatiful island had to offer.

Exciting Island Experiences One of the scariest things I experienced on my tours was watching Ross Kannaga jump across the backs of crocodiles mouths wide open. Wow! But I also experienced the picturesque, poster card beauty of Jamaica from coast to coast as I took visitors rafting on the Rio Grande or walking along the seven miles of our white sand beaches in Negril. We picked coffee beans along the hillsides of the Blue Mountain; learning the

difference between hand-picked studying and earned my BS in

corporate meetings, holiday parties,

and sundried coffee beans on the Business Management. With my

family reunions, church retreats and

drying pads versus coffee picked in

depth of knowledge about the

so much more.

mass quantity and dried in ovens or hospitality industry twinned with through other heating processes.

my formal training in business

My life then, in my opinion, could management I moved on to learn not be topped by anything - until one more aspect of the industry. my curiosity got the best of me. I became mentee to some of the I decided I needed to see what most renowned chefs in the USA was beyond the ocean that so and France.

So, Lanna Balkcom, Certified Bridal Consultant, has done it all beyond the horizon – trained with the best, worked for the best and served

pre-occupied my mind as a child.

Beyond the Horizon

Taking me under their wings, these

I got married and migrated to the

put my tutoring to good use and

United States where I worked for

gained experience in some of

chefs taught me the art of cooking and entertaining. I immediately

Air Jamaica - again in the hospitality the grandest hotels and private sector. After working for a number country and city clubs and then of years with the airline and many moved to the ultimate — owning others, I felt a strong affinity for the restaurants, banquet facilities and hospitality industry, so I decided event rental companies hosting and to get more involved and more managing elegant weddings, galas, connected. I re-commenced fund-raising events, golf outings,

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Conclusion

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the best! She has now decided to come back to her little island and carve her spot on the rock, where she will be known as the lady who creates the biggest WOW factor for whichever event she will host.

Lanna L. Balkcom is a Certified Bridal Consultant and founder of Caribbean Bridal & Special Events.

THE JEWEL DUNN’S RIVER BEACH RESORT AND SPA

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JEWEL DUNN’S RIVER 876-972-7400 SalesDunnsRiver@JewelResorts.com

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JEWEL RUNAWAY BAY 876-633-4000 SalesRunawayBay@JewelResorts.com

Curio Collection by Hilton TM

Curio Collection by Hilton

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TM

A ll– Inclusive W eddings & H oneymoons asU nique as Y ou Are Happily ever after begins at Jewel Resorts.

Whether you choose to say “I do” with just the two of you or your closest friends and family are along for the adventure, Jewel Resorts’ professional wedding planners are ready to deliver your own dream wedding. Jewel Resorts luxury wedding and honeymoon collections even offer FREE packages! Plus, our Jewel Resorts HoneymoonWishes Registry makes it easy for family and friends to give the perfect gift! All three amazing oceanfront resorts are perfect for weddings, renewal of vows, receptions, honeymoons and more.

FOR INFORMATION & WEDDING RESERVATIONS: US Toll-Free: 1-800-951-2997 www.JewelResorts.com

From the moment you arrive at our tropical oasis, your wedding is an affair to remember. Exchange vows on the beach as a brilliant Caribbean sunset melts into the horizon. Allow our professional wedding planners to handle all the paperwork and arrangements, including an officiant. A dynamic alternative to typical wedding locations, this all-inclusive, oceanfront resort provides a host of exciting activities. Fill your days with snorkeling, parasailing, golf, relaxing spa treatments or lounging on the beach. Committed to flawless service and gracious hospitality, Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa offers a full range of services for creating lifelong memories during your Jamaica wedding.

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FOR INFORMATION & WEDDING RESERVATIONS 876-953-2650 US Toll-Free: 1-800-951-2997 mbjrh-salesdm@hilton.com www.RoseHallResort.com ß 51 ß

Paradise Awaits!

hether you're looking for an intimate ceremony or a large gathering with family and friends, Jewel Resorts offer a great variety of wedding packages from the complimentary "Precious Gem" package to the premium "Crown Jewel" option ensuring the perfect selection for every size and budget. Most of our wedding packages include marriage certificates, flowers, hors d'oeuvres, photographer, spa treatments and our exclusive beachfront sunset hour location. Custom weddings are also the specialty of the team at Jewel Resorts in Jamaica.

W

Garden wedding gazebos, oceanfront weddings on the sand, golf course weddings, and elegant ballroom weddings are only a few of the unique options at Jewel Resorts. Some of its most coveted ceremony locations are the "tropical garden setting" and the Dunn's River ocean front pier, or an idyllic oceanfront gazebo or tropical garden gazebo at Jewel Paradise Cove, along with a trellis setting on the pier or vintage cutstone terrace also at Paradise Cove, and the infinitely picturesque wedding chapel at Jewel Runaway Bay.

The unforgettable Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa offers a treasure of wedding backdrops, including ancient aqueducts on the Cinnamon Hill Golf Course, a tropical gazebo or vows on the beach.

These lovely locations are truly one-of-a-kind settings, making the perfect backdrop that will be remembered for years to come.

The staff comprises some of Jamaica's most esteemed caterers and wedding planners. General Managers Carol Burke, Scott Robbins and Barbara Burton oversee a dedicated team whose goal is to make each and every wedding picture perfect from start to finish. Jewel Resorts even has its own Romance Director Brian Postle and a team of wedding specialists who can help you select the ideal Jewel property for your special occasion.

Personalization of each wedding experience in the beautiful backdrop of Jewel Resorts, are ingredients for your perfect day.

Couples who spend six nights or more in an Oceanfront View room at Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa (Dunn's River-Diamond Ocean View Concierge, Paradise Cove-Oceanfront Concierge or Runaway Bay-Oceanfront Jr. Suite with Plunge Pool or higher)

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will receive a complimentary PRECIOUS GEM wedding package (a value of US$499) for the bride, groom and up to four guests, which include: • Bridal bouquet and groom's boutonniere.

• Thirty minute reception with cold hors d'oeuvres and sparkling wine.

• Classic one-tier wedding cake • A 5x7 printed wedding photograph.

• Private dinner for bride and groom at one of Jewel Resorts' fi n e dining restaurants.

Each Jewel Resort has a full-service Radiant Spa, comzplete with hair and nail salon and an extensive menu of specialty spa and beauty

treatments, with a full staff to handle wedding parties of all sizes.

Already tied the knot? There is nothing quite like the beauty of Jamaica to keep the passion in a relationship going… and no better place than these stunning gems.

Our uniquely designed honeymoon packages let you truly enjoy this special time with your soul mate. Plus, complimentary honeymoon packages for wedding parties with stays of 6 nights or longer, within 30 days of wedding.

Jamaica's Jewel Resorts and Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa are the ideal locations for your upcoming wedding, honeymoon or vow renewal…paradise awaits!

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On April 27, 2016 the ballroom at the Jamaica Pegasus was abuzz with anxious brides-to-be waiting their turn to fit their dream wedding dress.

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ith over 200 designer gowns from Maggie Sottero, Justin Alexander, Sophia Tolli, and other top rated designers, Jamaica’s first

ever Bridal Trunk Show hosted by Bliss Bridal Boutique was a hit! There was no shortage of variety; from lace mermaid dresses to beaded ball gowns to elegant sheath gowns, it was definitely a bridal paradise.

In an effort to ensure that brides had access to the latest styles, Bliss Bridal Boutique owners Sara and Brian Stanford flew in Maggie Sottero’s International Sales Director from the United States, with her entire 2016 collection. Sara said, “We knew it was important that every bride had her own personal experience just as if she were in-store. Therefore, each fitting room was assigned a bridal consultant to assist each client with her selections and fittings.” The bride’s friends and family waited outside the room for a view of the bride-to-be as she fitted each gown. Once a bride found her gown and said ‘yes to the dress,’ bells rang and everyone in the room cheered. It was tons of fun.

On September 24th and 25th 2016, Bliss Bridal Boutique will do it again; this time in Montego Bay. They will host the Montego Bay version in tandem with the Jamaica Bridal Expo – an event which Bliss Bridal has sponsored since inception 5 years now. It therefore made perfect business sense to bring the trunk show to the expo. Brian Stanford said, “We know a lot of brides from the western side of the island missed out on the show in Kingston and we want to ensure that they have the same experience. So again, we will be outfitting an entire room with wedding gowns.”

“We are excited to meet all the Montego Bay and western brides and can’t wait to help them ‘say yes to the dress.’"

Sara Stanford

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DRESSING

GROOM The

FROM HEAD TO TOE

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Dressing the

Bride

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From HeaD to toe

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Wedding DAY PREP Beauty Trial Tips and Tricks Meleisa Witter

E

ver been disappointed by your go-to hairstyle?

Somehow, this hairstyle – f a v o r e d because it saved you so many times —just didn’t do justice for a particularly important evening.

Then after the dust settled, you realized that while it accentuated your lovely, high cheekbones when you wore V-neck tops; it didn’t have the same effect with your turtle necked blouse – weird.

But since life can be weird, we advise you to not take any chances with your hair and make-up on your special day.

After all, every bride wants to be uber-glamorous for her wedding, so to be safe, have a trial run. Here are some tips to guarantee hair and makeup success on your big day.

BOOKING

Book early – that is, at least three months prior to your wedding day. Have your stylist place you at a time which will result in you (and your bridal party if necessary) getting the service provider’s undivided attention. Ensure you have all your details together so you end with a complete look that complements your wedding dress and accessories. A sneak preview will give you the opportunity to make changes to ensure satisfaction on the big day.

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TRIAL RUN

Not everyone is good at visualization so make it easy on your hairdresser by snapping a pic of that lovely Pinterest style you want to (re)create, or assemble a montage of images which you really like.

It won’t hurt to also collect images of looks which you absolutely despise. Your hairdresser will appreciate them and you will much more likely leave the salon looking like the dream you envisioned.

Photos (exact or similar) of your dress, flowers, and bridesmaid dresses will also help the service provider to get a better idea of how the hairstyle(s) will help to create the perfect look. Themes and ideas must be shared as well. This may seem like going all out, but if possible, get your photographer in the mix so he/she can take some pictures to help you determine which application will look best from all angles and work best for your big day.

So take along as many accessories as possible for the trial run – without giving all the goodies away.

TOO MANY COOKS…

Have you ever asked 20 people their opinions about a photo and received 23 different views? Your salon visit will not only be hindered by having too many persons with you- it will frustrate the hell out of both you and your service provider.

Pick only one person to accompany you to your trial – preferably someone with good taste and sense of style. Too many voices can create chaos. Not to mention that too many opinions can become stressful and confusing, causing you to lose sight of what YOU want. When you start going along with what others may want for you, you end up second guessing your final decision.

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MAKEUP FIRST

You know the rule – makeup then hairstyle. It is challenging to imagine a finished look with an unfinished face so please schedule your make-up appointment to fall right before your hair appointment. No need to be overly concerned about spoiling your makeup while creating your hairstyle. If your makeup is that fragile, you may need to revisit it anyway. Having hair and makeup completed together will help you envision how amazing you will look on your wedding day.

TELL IT LIKE IT IS

Know what you want and don’t be afraid to share this with your service provider. Speak up about what you want, and especially about what you don't want.

Remember this is your day! You will have these pictures for a lifetime, so you want to make sure you LOVE the final outcome.

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TESTING 1-2-3

Finally, plan an evening out on the day of your trial to ensure that the money spent on this pre-wedding hair and makeup trial does not go to waste. More importantly, it will test the longevity of your hair and makeup to make sure they do not fall out after an hour or two of carousing.

Follow these tips and you will be assured of wedding hair and makeup success!

The

DIGITAL DOMAIN . .and a Cover Shot in the Making Max Earle

I have a vague recollection of a time past when pictures were actually taken on a piece of film, had to be developed, then printed. Each roll of film varied from 12 exposures to a maximum of 36! There was no instant viewing, deleting or editing so the art of creating the optimum image rested on the skills of the photographer both aesthetically and technically.

Fast forward to the present day where literally anyone can become his own Picasso.

Depending on the size of the drive and quality of the image you can have an almost infinite number of pictures to work with.

Decisions can be made on the spot guaranteeing that you've "got your shot." I have been lucky to have enjoyed both scenarios and have to admit that where image making has gotten to nowadays really takes a lot of the 'guess work' out of whatever I happen to be shooting.

Add software technology to the mix and photography takes a quantum leap as that allows for editing, with no quality loss because the files are created and remain in the digital domain. There are many programmes that will allow the enhancement and embellishment of your images, depend-

ing on the results you want to achieve. My personal favourite is Photoshop. Live example: the cover of this magazine .

front of the more opulent scenery - and you certainly would not know that from looking at the cover of the magazine.

Creating the Cover – I Do Jamaica Magazine 2016

Creative Cropping

The original shot was taken at Blue Hole in Ocho Rios, at one of the lower (less dramatic) falls. At the request of the magazine producers, a more opulent background had to be produced so I proceeded to present additional options without having to redo the entire costly photoshoot.

Here's how.

I went back (alone) and photographed the bigger, more dramatic falls at Blue Hole to use as a background plate. In Photoshop, I selected and cut out our model Amy from the first image. She was then ‘photoshopped’ in place in

Another important skill in my tool box is cropping. It may seem very simple, but when editing, in order to maximise the intensity and focus of an image, I cannot stress how important it is.

On a previous shoot with one of my favourite models and dear friend Sara, she wanted an image that would show her love for horses.

We did a number of setups, and ended up with one that focused on her outfit and her eyes. I've often found that the real connection between any living subject and a great shot comes from the eyes. She also

loves images in sepia tone...so that was the first step. That covered, I wanted to enhance the opulence and mystique of the shot so I did a number of things in Photoshop. Softened the look, blurred the background a bit, and cropped the image so that there could be no doubt about the connection between them and the viewer. I confess, with a bit of editing, the difference is quite striking.

Truth is, we've come a long way and who knows what's around the corner? The main thing is to use whatever technology you need, to accomplish the look you want.

I know the purists disagree with me, but I feel that this is really one good instance where the end justifies the means.

Happy shooting!

5

over- the-t op

wedding invi

ta tio n s Meleisa Witter

An invitation card provides the first impression of the planned event and functions as an extended imprint of the hosts. "The invitation is important as it sets the tone of what is to come. When people receive a lavish invitation they know that this event is one not to be missed as the invitation tells them it will be a grand affair." Ravish Kapoor.

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Keyshawn Johnson and Jennifer Conrad ($20 million) Leading the pack both in cost and (perhaps) ingenuity are former NFL wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson and fiancée Jennifer Conrad. Their invitations were iPads! Yes; and they were delivered via the mail.

The tablets were said to be pre-programmed with details about the Big Day, including a photo gallery, countdown to the wedding and more.

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pulence is usually thought to be primarily

about cost – or rather value. But quite often it is actually about the magnificence found in difference. And we can understand why – it is not hard to assume that something which is not used or done by the masses is of necessity, ‘ostentatious goods.’

Wedding invitations can be opulent! Let us share with you what the top five (known) most expensive wedding invitations comprised – and who sent them.

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Tanisha Ital ($10 million) Being a child of billionaire Lakshmi Ital definitely has its advantages. Bride-to-be Tanisha Ital is said to have sent wedding invitation cards made of gold to her guests. Around 1,200 guests received the invitation that was around twenty pages, hand-painted and included romantic poems. The invitation also provided information for each event that would take place during the five day celebration.

3

Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra ($6 million) Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty and her beau Raj Kundra created royal square-shaped golden colored invitation cards. These were personalized with a beautiful royal intricate brooch with their initials ‘RS’ encrusted. The invites were sent in expensive envelopes with a brief detail of the venue and the cuisine.

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Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan ($5 million) Up next is another Bollywood couple Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchanhad. Their invite comprised three parts tied together with a ribbon and placed in a big box. The first part of the invitation set contained a golden card with the emblem 'AA’, (the initials of the star couple), embossed on it in white gold.

The second part of the card had Lord Ganesha embossed on it. This was followed by a few Indian verses printed in golden letters. The third part had lines from a poem written by Amitabh Bachchan’s father and a known poet, HarivanshraiBachchan.

It also had pages containing the actual invitation to the wedding in both Hindi and English. Each invite was signed by the parents of the bride and groom

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to add a personal touch.

Shahid Kapoor and Mira Rajput ($4.5 million) The wedding invitation card sent by this Bollywood couple was designed by Delhi-based designer Ravish Kapoor. It was a cream/golden white and turquoise colour combination which was placed in an equally elegant custom made box along with handcrafted tea and honey. The reception invitation card was a

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beautiful midnight blue with an elegant chrome plate inside, containing the details. The plate was removed and used as the security pass for guests to carry to the reception.

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rom these top five, you would have garnered some ideas about the things which will add glamour and opulence to your invitations. Some others which we researched (but have not included here), are encrusted with crushed gemstones and gold. Some materials which always intimate elegance and class are lace and linen fabrics. Ditching the envelope for an elegant box or other beautiful, elegant packaging is definitely a good idea and by all means, add something else for an oomph!

Source: http://successstory.com/spendit/10-most-expensive-wedding-invitations

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ets

Play Their ParT

The Ne

w ring Bearers Alicea James

I

n many households, pets are treated just as well

as everyone else–they are an important part of the family after all. It is therefore not surprising that

a big trend in the wedding scene is the involvement of pets, playing an integral role in the ceremony. These days they’re given what some might deem the most important role of all-carrying the rings. Yes, dogs have become the new ring bearers —but your horse, cat, bird, bunny or other pet can be ring bearers as well.

C

ute as they might be though, they do come with their share of challenges

(although not unlike the original ring bearers who are normally young and unpredictable). Since dogs are the most popular pet being used, this article will focus on the dos and don’ts of using your dog as a part of your ceremony.

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Dogs are leading the pack as pet ring bearers — they are man’s best friend after all. The key is to put a leash on your dog for the day and have someone walk with him/her down the aisle. Since the wedding rings are usually strapped onto the animal you certainly don’t want it running off with this valuable possession-thus the leash!

Here are some quick tips to keep in mind: • Your pet needs to be a part of the wedding rehearsal just like the rest of the wedding party; this will give you a good idea of how the animal is likely to perform on the actual day.

• While you and your guests are enjoying the delicious food, make sure that you make preparations for your pet as well.

You certainly don’t want a hungry dog whimpering at people’s feet while they try to enjoy their meals. Make sure that there is food for the particular animal and that someone is there to feed it at the appropriate time—there should also be a space designated for this.

• Make sure that your pet is properly groomed on the day of the wedding.

A bath and a nice trim is really all you need; because a dirty, smelly animal at a fancy, upscale event is a no! no!

• There’s nothing cuter than a dog in a tuxedo, but you don’t need to go all out if your pet isn’t comfortable, a nice bowtie or a diamond encrusted collar works just fine.

Ultimately the choice to include your pet in your wedding —if carefully, thought out and expertly executed — can be a memorable moment - not just for the bride and groom but for the guests as well.

Unique

ENTERTAINMENT Options for Extravagant

Weddings Alicea James

Singing Waiters

Traditionally, waiters and waitresses are hired to serve food and drinks, but this is an extravagant wedding, so do the unexpected. While your guests certainly won’t go hungry (yes, the delicious entrees will in fact be served, and on time), the real surprise will be revealed when these talented waiters and waitresses, clad in their traditional black and white attire take the stage for a mesmeric song and dance, ala backstreet boys. These singing waiters will feed, and then serenade you and your guests—how special is that?

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Aerial Performances

It’s hard to not be mesmerized by the acrobatic movements of aerial dancers, so you’ll certainly have these memories for a lifetime. Whether you hire a solo performer or an ensemble, it will be something that your guests will remember for a long time to come. You can even personalize this performance by suggesting a song to be used during the segment, or requesting that the entertainers’ outfits and other materials used match your wedding décor.

Dancers

Whether it’s belly dancing, salsa, burlesque, samba or even fire dancers, there is no doubt that guests will be thoroughly entertained by these professional dancers.

You can also pay homage to your heritage (or surprise your new husband by paying homage to his) by opting for a cultural piece; why not hire a group of dancers to perform a traditional Jamaican, African, Indonesian or Chinese dance?

Your guests will definitely want to join in on the fun; they might even get some dance lessons from the professionals; and what better way to end the night.

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Caricaturist

Another unique way to keep guests entertained is by hiring a caricaturist for the event. It is an unusually clever way to capture all the beautiful people at your wedding aside from the traditional photos. These talented artists usually take about 5 minutes to create on-the-spot drawings of people and it is a great way to complement the day with lots of fun and laughter.

Celebrity Singers

Mariah Carey doesn’t come cheap, but if you can afford her, it will make for an impressive event. But if this singing diva is not exactly your speed

there is a multitude of other talented celebrity singers that you can hire to perform at your shindig, at a cost of course! Lionel Ritchie, Ken Booth, Taurus Riley, Jennifer Hudson, it’s really up to you—and your budget!

Make sure to keep this aspect of the event a secret from your guests – but do arrange for photographers and videographers to capture the look on their faces when the performance starts.

Photo Booth

While this doesn’t replace the main entertainment, it is certainly a nice addition. There are plenty of companies that offer photo booth renting services—equipped with wedding props and costumes that will truly add a little excitement to your special day.

Guest Video Box

Yes, guest books are cool but video boxes are becoming a popular trend for weddings-many high profile celebrities have used them at their wedding. Instead of having guests write down their messages they will record them in a video booth stationed at the wedding or reception site, that way you get to kick back with your new husband and watch all the tearful, funny and crazy sentiments that your friends and family recorded for you.

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Yours, Mine, Ours Protecting

Premarital

ASSETS Claudeen Stewart

Y

ou are planning your dream wedding and can’t help but fantasize about your new life with that special someone. As the day draws closer everything starts to come together beautifully – and you are elated about your choices from venue to food to guests. And yes, emotions flare occasionally because you really want the day to be a smashing success. You have even gone through counselling and you feel ready to take on this marriage but in the height of the excitement you may have overlooked a very important decision.

This important, forgotten step is the ‘protection’ of your assets and the business ventures you worked so hard

to build prior to the relationship and the marriage.

So let’s be real, many persons enter into marriages with the expectation that they will build a future and as such the last thing on one’s mind is the question, “How do I protect my property in case of a divorce or worse, death?” Our suggestion - create a prenuptial agreement. Yes, it can be a very controversial and emotional discussion between parties, but it can save a lot of heartache and money when the time comes to distribute assets belonging to either spouse.

And truth is, each party is more likely to be reasonable about things at that juncture in the relationship than when the battle lines have been drawn and love turns to hate – especially if a third party is involved.

So what is a Pre-nuptial Agreement?

A prenuptial agreement is a legally binding contract created by two individuals before entering into a marriage. It seeks to protect each spouse’s premarital assets from a claim by the other spouse in the event of death or divorce. In other words the assets remain the property of the original owner and the surviving or divorcee spouse is not entitled to benefit from that property or asset. The agreement also extends to property acquired during the marriage, or from an inheritance or proceeds from business ventures. It sets out clear directions as to how they (property) should be distributed in the future; the agreement can also clarify assets and identify ownership of them. In that way, a distinction can be made between separate and marital property.

In Jamaica, the Property (Rights of Spouses) Act governs the procedure when signing prenuptial agreements. The agreement must be in writing, signed by both parties and witnessed by a justice of the peace or attorney-at-law after each party has obtained independent legal advice from an attorney. He/she will certify that the effects of the agreement

were thoroughly explained to the clients before the agreement was signed.

While there are many who oppose a prenuptial agreement due to the mind-set that this promotes the likelihood of divorce, there are several benefits associated with entering into this agreement. It can avoid complex divorces and save time and money, it can establish procedures and ground rules for deciding future matters. Other advantages include:

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2.

It is legally binding and enforceable in a court of law.

It protects the inheritance rights of children and grandchildren from a previous marriage if one spouse is entering a second marriage.

The agreement deals with a spouse who enters the marriage with significant debt and seeks to protect the debt-free spouse from having to assume the debt commitment of the other.

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It represents a commitment by both parties that could help to alleviate any concerns that the wealthier party may have that his or her partner is marrying his/her for money.

It is advisable that individuals contemplating signing prenuptial agreements should engage in such discussions at an early stage. Both parties should ensure that the agreement contains all of the mutually agreed promises which caused each party to sign the agreement.

Port of Call, Love

Jamaica Final Destination,

YorkAli Walters

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lose to 4pm, in late December 2013, Alexis and Craig stepped off their American Airlines flight arriving in Montego Bay to an incredible and unexpected welcome. Various ministers and government officials greeted them as they helped Jamaica establish a new milestone in the country's tourism history. Two million stop-over visitors to the island. Driven by mystique, lure, genuine smiles, lush vegetation and of course great food, Jamaica has become the Caribbean's jewel for attracting millions of people to our fair and unforgettable isle.

Organized tourism to Jamaica began not in Montego Bay though. It started in the lush rain forest parish of Port Antonio, on the opposite end of the island's northern coast.

Ships left with bananas and returned with tourists. Lorenzo Baker, in the early 1900s was known as the "Banana King." Steamships would carry payloads of the greenback fruit

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in addition to expectant eyes, hungry for a tropical experience.

At first Baker's on property guest house, constructed for his workers would also house Portland visitors. He would go on to build the magnificent Titchfield Hotel equipped with 400 rooms. Port Antonio continues to be a major centre of the island's tourism to this day but Montego Bay and Negril have become the twin epicentres on the western end of the island. As time went on, the advent of reggae with its own mystique and allure, along with the varied experiences throughout the island have become strong attractors for visitors seeking new exploits outside of the well-guarded pleasure palaces of the north coast. Recent numbers have shown that of the 1500 rooms in the country, the most popular Airbnb spots in Jamaica are

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actually in Trench Town, the heart of inner-city Kingston.

This magnetic pull has inevitably spilled over into the destination wedding business—a market that for the United States alone stands at a whopping 16 billion dollars per year. Various sites have reported that Jamaica is the number one territory in the Caribbean and third in the world for several consecutive years. Destination weddings have surpassed being a trend; the main drivers being cost, and a desire to get married in a special, fun, and/or exotic location.

With 50% of brides stating that planning to get married in paradise was a lot less costly or difficult than a traditional wedding, it's apparent that this phenomenon is not set to end anytime soon. The average destination wedding costs $8,800 USD vs $30,000 USD marrying state-side with most weddings taking place at one of the major hotels dotting Jamaica's north coast. The most popular months being May, June and July.

And after the ‘I Do’s’ have been said, there are so many other things to enjoy. In addition to crisp breezes, warm waters and spectacular sunsets there is an incredibly wide variety of gastronomical delights from every possible corner of the earth. Authentic Jamaican fare is also available at every turn. For those who have an affinity for the wild side, zip lining through rainforests or visits to our inner-city may beckon. For the tamer tourist, horseback riding on the beach or rafting on the Rio Grande may be your thing. Whatever you choose, it is available for so much less. Anything is possible...in paradise.

YorkAli Walters is a seasoned wedding photographer and writer for Walters Weddings in Jamaica.

4 color: 45C 40M 25Y

If using as 1 color: PMS 5285

We like to bring people together. The stories. The romance. Which is why we offer the best luxury hotels and all the extra details to make sure your big day is perfect. We want to be part of your happiness. Your wedding starts today. Enjoy.

Book your wedding at weddings.jamaica@palladiumweddings.com or visit our webpage at www.palladiumweddings.com

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