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contents p. 36
STYLE
8 SWOON-WORTHY Wedding dress trends for 2024
10 MAXIMUM MINIMALIST Simple, sleek gowns make a beautiful impact BEAUTY
12 IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS Great wedding hair days REAL WEDDINGS
16 CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’ A Golden State wedding 20 OUR HEARTS ARE IN CABO Romance on the beach in Mexico 22 WHITE WEDDING Sharing the love in Thailand PLANNING
INSPIRATION
36 MY BIG, BEAUTIFUL GREEK WEDDING An intimate affair on Crete 38 LOVE, ITALIAN STYLE Family and food in Sicily
p.
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Swoon-Worthy Wedding Dress Trends for 2024 Brides-to-be are looking for the perfect dresses that showcase their unique personality and style, and designers are coming up with creative solutions to meet their demands. From ethereal, flowy fabrics to structured, statement-making silhouettes and bold colours, wedding dress trends are thriving with new ideas and designs.
Nadia Manjarrez Bridal
Today, we’re exploring some of the most exciting trends that are expected to take the bridal world by storm in 2024. So whether you are a traditionalist or an avant-garde bride, read on to discover the wedding dress styles that will make you feel like a true queen on your special day.
Sultry sheaths For brides who desire a wedding gown that embraces their curves
without sacrificing comfort and movement, the sultry sheath style is a clear frontrunner. Unlike the mermaid silhouette, the sheath offers a more understated approach. It starts with a fitted bodice that elegantly traces the body’s natural lines and then flows gently into a straight, unfussy skirt. The sheath wedding dress has a straight skirt without many layers or crinoline underneath, making it easy and comfortable to wear. Available in various fabrics, necklines and embellishments, the sheath wedding dress is the perfect choice for any type of wedding. For all these reasons, this wedding dress trend will likely be around for a while.
Maggie Sottero Jordan
Drop waist silhouette The drop waist silhouette is a wedding dress trend that was once very popular in the 1920s
but is now making a big comeback. This iconic wedding dress style blends a Cinderella-esque ballgown with a fitted bodice and torso, marrying vintage style with modern sophistication. If you want a real showstopper, say “I do” to a sexy, hip-hugging silhouette that beautifully showcases your fabulous figure, leaving an unforgettable impression as you walk down the aisle.
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Colourful wedding dresses Colourful wedding dresses are not new on the scene; it’s a wedding dress trend that we’ve been swooning over for years. In recent years we’ve seen a lot of soft colours like light gold hues in champagne, pastel blue and blushes and romantic floral prints. In 2024, designers are taking it up a notch by incorporating bold colours in their collections.
Beige Weddings (photography, Bobo Zhao)
Think black wedding dresses, red gowns, dark gold hues, and emerald green, to name a few. Modern weddings continue to evolve by allowing couples to embrace their own unique personalities, and there is no better day to be true to yourself than on your wedding day. So, if you want to walk on the wild side and wear a colourful wedding dress, do you, girl!
Plunging necklines Although each year unveils a fresh wave of wedding dress trends that spans colours, embellishments, sleeves, and more, necklines have rarely strayed too far from the traditional. However, 2024 marks a captivating departure from tradition as designers embark on a creative journey with plunging necklines. Designers are infusing new life into the plunging neckline by experimenting with innovative shapes, intricate designs, and dramatic embellishments. A prime example of this creative evolution is the Reem Acra Angelina wedding dress, which flawlessly showcases a daring plunging neckline that’s modern and audacious while maintaining an air of sophistication.
Dana Harel Essense of Australia
The plunging neckline wedding dress trend isn’t for everyone, but no need to worry; the traditional necklines aren’t going anywhere and will still fill bridal boutiques racks.
Removable accessories Yes, removable wedding dress accessories such as sleeves, trains, and capes will continue to grace the aisles in 2024, and we love it! In a world where brides seek grace and adaptability, these removable wedding dress accessories emerge as a standout solution. This trend offers a dynamic twist, allowing brides to transform their look as the day unfolds. From detachable lace sleeves that evoke a touch of vintage charm, bolero jackets, dramatic bridal capes, overlay skirts, and detachable trains to removable sparkling belts that transition an ensemble from ceremony elegance to reception chic, these versatile additions redefine bridal attire’s capabilities. The ability to have different looks throughout the day without buying more than one gown is genius. With so many options, brides can truly channel their inner fashionista on their wedding day.
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The Destination Weddings Guide | S T Y L E
MAXI MU M MINI MA LIS T Photography Anna Veltri Photography Hair & Makeup RM Beauty Lounge
WHY COMPETE WITH PA L M T R E E S , O C E A N S , O V E R-T H E -T O P S U N S E T S A N D M O R E T H AT Y O U ’ L L E N J O Y AT Y O U R D E S T I N AT I O N W E D D I N G ? WHEN IT C O MES TO THE DR ESS, S O M E T I M E S T H E S I M P L E S T, SLEEKEST APPROACH MAKES THE M O S T B E A U T I F U L I M PA C T.
Clothing Figjam.To Women’s Boutique Woodbridge, On., figjam.to.com Florals Oak & Meadow Studio Studio Three Cake Melanie at Custom Cake Shop Tablescapes & Decor Her Event Rentals Model Erika Angela
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AWARD-WINNING ARTISAN
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VOTED VAUGHAN’S BEST CHOCOLATE SHOP
Take your inspiration from these understated looks, with jaw-dropping details – a plunging shirred back, a deep-V cowl or a decolletage-baring strapless number.
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The Destination Weddings Guide | B E A U T Y
IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS S I M P L E A N D P R E T T Y I D E AS F O R G R E AT D E ST I N AT I O N W E D D I N G H A I R DAYS . H E R E , A G U I D E TO E N S U R E YO U R LO O K I S AS ST U N N I N G AS T H E S E T T I N G YO U ’ V E C H O S E N .
CHARLI Photography @pamkay.love, pamkay.ca Flowers Sarah Burnell Floral & Event Designer, flourishandknot.com Hair @oksanochka_sav Makeup @nargessheed Planner Carrie-Ann The Wedding Coach, kithandkinweddings.ca
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G O W I T H T H E F LOW O F T H E D E S T I N AT I O N Destination weddings often embrace the natural beauty of the surroundings, and your hair can follow suit. Beach weddings often involve sea breezes, while tropical locales can bring high humidity. For a beach wedding, opt for loose waves or a messy bun that captures the carefree spirit of the ocean. Updos, braids and half-up, half-down styles are also popular choices, as they keep your hair off your face and maintain their structure throughout the day. If you have short hair, explore textured styles or accessorize with hairpins. For a garden wedding, consider soft curls or side parts adorned with fresh flowers. TA K E A T R I A L R U N Schedule a trial hairstyle session well in advance of the wedding to experiment with different looks and recommendations that work best for your hair type. Bring inspiration photos and communicate your preferences clearly to your hairstylist. Take photos of what you love so that you can show this to your destination wedding hairstylist. M A I N TA I N R E A L I S T I C E X P E C TAT I O N S
AC C E S S O R I E S T H AT E N H A N C E
PAC K T H E ESSENTIALS
Your hair might behave differently in a new climate, so it’s important to prepare for a bit of frizz or flyaways, especially in humid destinations. A flexible attitude will help you feel more relaxed and confident, and embracing your hair’s natural texture can create an effortless and stunning effect.
Hair accessories can elevate your hairstyle to new heights. Consider adding a touch of sparkle with crystal pins, delicate hair vines, or a statement headpiece. Floral crowns work wonders for bohemian beach weddings, while intricate hair combs or delicate embroidered veils can accentuate vintage-inspired looks.
Bring along your preferred styling products and any hair accessories you plan to use. If you’re considering a specific hairstyle that requires certain tools, consult your hairstylist to ensure you have everything you need.
ALI (top left) Photography Jessica at JLP Studio Hair Lindsey @hair_by_chambers Makeup Victoria @vr.beauty victoriarendonbeauty.com
SAWSAN (bottom left) Photography Five Feet Above Veil Handmade by Sawsan's mother, a family tradition Hair Jewellery David's Bridal Hair Charlie's Hair Salon + Xola Beauty Makeup Mina Beauty + Edona Beauty Planning Eros Events Co.
CY (top & bottom right) Photography Jessica Douglas Photography Hair & Makeup Judy Lim Headband Prada with Swarovski Crystals Veil With Love Bridal, Kanata
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take your heart if you take ours
Celebrate your love in a destination as beautiful as your family and enjoy salty kisses all around.
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The Destination Weddings Guide | R E A L W E D D I N G S
California Dreamin’ KATIE & ZACK
A backyard celebration is the perfect setting for this gorgeous Golden State wedding
I chose California because I have family that lives there and I love the landscape and weather,” says Katie Peterson, of why she and beau Zach decided on a destination wedding. “Zach and I met through work,” she recalls. “We became best friends and when the timing was right, it all sort of fell together naturally.” Before she knew it, Katie and Zach were hanging out everyday and texting all day. “We quickly fell in love and dated a year and a half before we got engaged. I was actually planning on proposing to him but he beat me to it!” Katie feels that their wedding was so special because it was intimate. “We had a backyard ceremony in one of our family members’ yards. They live near a really cool regional park, so we were able to go there and capture our beautiful photos.
It was a perfect day and Keri got some breathtaking shots. I love our photos so much!” Katie sourced much of her wedding day style and decor locally.
“My flowers were from a local family-owned shop; my dress was custom made by a California dress shop; and our food was catered by a local company – they designed a custom menu just for our backyard wedding.” Katie says she’s normally very camera shy, but her photographer Keri did such a great job, she made the couple feel comfortable and was able to get genuine photos – a really important detail. “Nothing felt staged,” says Katie. “Keri just let us be in love and captured all of the right moments. We felt like we were just the two of us, living in the moment of our magical day.”
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The Destination Weddings Guide | R E A L W E D D I N G S
It's all in the details
Photography Keri Whittemore, Kerilynne Photography Dress Custom Dreamers & Lovers Flowers 96 Flowers & 13 Stems Hair Bethany, a special event hair stylist, @babehairbyb Makeup Linda @makeupbylindajoy Food Pete’s Real Food
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The Destination Weddings Guide | R E A L W E D D I N G S
JULIE & TY
Our hearts are in Cabo All romance and roses at this joyful beachside spring wedding in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
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“It was love at first sight at a Grade 12 house party,” says Julie Murphy. “We locked eyes and instantly knew. That night Ty told his friends he was going to marry me. Eight years later, I proposed to him.” Los Cabos is a beautiful picturesque party hub, “and the weather is always amazing since it’s a desert, which means great things for a bride. No rain and no humidity! The panoramic views in the distance of the capes and mountains meeting the ocean, makes for great beach wedding photos.” Working with Riu Weddings really simplified the process and all the details, from flowers to food, she adds. Having a destination wedding was the only choice for Julie and Ty “because that is exactly who we are. Self-proclaimed snowbirds from Toronto who find joy in travelling and experiencing different cultures. We wanted to bring our friends and family with us to celebrate everything we are.”
Photography: Tincho, Riu from Wedding Day Story Venue: Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas Photobooth: Wedding Day Story Photography Flowers: Baja Flowers Wedding Coordinator: Susana Garcia with Riu
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The Destination Weddings Guide | R E A L W E D D I N G S
SARAH & BEA Sharing the love on the beach in Phuket, Thailand
WHIT E WED D I N G
F
rom the very beginning, Sarah and Bea knew they wanted to get married by the beach and fell in love with Phuket on a trip they made there together, right after their engagement. On that same trip, they met their wedding planner, Ilaire from The Wedding Boutique Phuket, who helped Sarah start designing the couple’s dream wedding and choose a location. “Our wedding was destined to be a destination wedding for some of our guests, no matter where we decided to have it,” says Sarah. “So why not give all our guests a holiday to the perfect destination location! We wanted it to be fun, where strangers left being friends, with a relaxed
vibe and skipping any formalities at the ceremony.” They knew they wanted something elegant and chic, but with so many themes out there, they needed expert guidance. Ilaire helped the couple narrow down options, gave them some inspo on a white floral, greenery and bronze-toned wedding. “We had all our guests in white to keep our photos looking fresh and clean. Walking down the aisle together, looking at all the beautiful flowers, decor, our beautiful guests and knowing all 70 of them had flown in to witness our commitment to each other,” Sarah recalls. “Everything came together perfectly, just as if it was meant to be that way.”
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The Destination Weddings Guide | R E A L W E D D I N G S
Photography: Alen Karupovic Photography Venue and Catering: Phuket Marriott Nai Yang Bridal Gowns: Karen Willis Holmes Hair/Makeup: @aurorahairbyb_ @georgiaparmakellismua Bridesmaid Dresses: @zoelaurente Flower girl dress: @arabellaandrose Cake: Joob Joob @joobjoobbakery Celebrant: Orlando Wolf Event planner/Stylist: Wedding Boutique Phuket Florist: Oriental Flower Phuket
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www.nereatulum.mx
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CREATE LIFELONG MEMORIES WITH WEDDINGS BY PALLADIUM
DESTINATION WEDDING IN MEXICO Weddings in Mexico are rich in tradition, and couples can combine local food and time-honored rituals with Weddings by Palladium, personalized packages custom designed by wedding planner Karen Bussen to create an unforgettable destination wedding. Six beautiful beachfront resorts awaits couples seeking to create unforgettable romantic memories in Costa Mujeres, Cancun and Riviera Maya.
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COS TA MUJ ER ES
TRS CORAL HOTEL
EXCHANGE VOWS IN CANCUN’S MOST EXCLUSIVE ENCLAVE
GRAND PALLADIUM COSTA MUJERES RESORT & SPA
The five-star Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa and TRS Coral Hotel are ideally situated for a gathering of loved ones for a destination wedding in Mexico. Located just minutes from the Cancun airport, both resorts are set apart from the busy Hotel Zone on the unspoiled beach of Costa Mujeres. The family friendly Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa is large enough, with 673 rooms, to accommodate big weddings while still providing the attentive service that distinguishes Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts. Wedding guests without kids in
RI VI ER A NAYARI T
GRAND PALLADIUM VALLARTA RESORT & SPA
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tow — as well as the bride and groom — may choose a stay at the neighboring TRS Coral Hotel, an elegant, adults-only oasis. Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa’s modern architecture, contrasted with the the blue Caribbean, surrounding mangroves, and the greenery fringing its pool and public areas, makes a beautiful backdrop for a wedding reception and ceremony. Vows can be exchanged on the beach or at a selection of venues, from the Nuestra Señora del Rocío Catholic wedding chapel to a lakeside deck or — for larger events or in case some “liquid sunshine” falls — the resort’s convention center. Weddings by Palladium provides the planning and pampering to make every Costa Mujeres destination wedding special, from a dedicated wedding planner, the choice of a half-dozen wedding packages designed by Karen Bussen, the use of venues, and extra touches for the bride and groom like breakfast in bed, a wedding gift, honeymoon amenities, turndown service and late check-out. All of these wedding facilities are also available to guests staying in the 469 luxury suites at the TRS Coral Hotel, a quiet enclave with personalized service and special dining and entertainment options set aside for guests only, including the distinctive Helios, an Ibiza style beach club. Both hotels provide the signature Infinite Indulgence® all-inclusive amenities, including unlimited dining, drinks, entertainment, and activities. And before and after the wedding the couple and their guests can enjoy the Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness treatments, the excitement of the Chic Cabaret & Restaurant dinner show, or play at the Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre, and more.
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The Destination Weddings Guide |
R IV IE R A MAYA
ROMANCE ON THE RIVIERA MAYA
Mexico’s Riviera Maya is a dream destination for weddings suffused with Mexico’s Mayan culture and fulfilling the vision of exchanging vows on one of the most beautiful and private beaches in the Caribbean.
TRS YUCATAN HOTEL
Set on a quiet stretch of sand between Cancun and Playa del Carmen and in a private resort community are four distinctive, five-star all-inclusive resorts. The Grand Palladium White Sand Resort & Spa blends a mix of traditional architecture with modern amenities while the Grand Palladium Colonial Resort & Spa brings a hint of old Spain to the Riviera Maya. The Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort & Spa is surrounded by the lush foliage of the tropics, and guests will find an even more exclusive sanctuary at the adults-only TRS Yucatan Hotel. Each resort has a dedicated wedding planner who ensures that every detail lives up to couples’ unique vision. Traditional
GRAND PALLADIUM WHITE SAND RESORT & SPA
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Mexican wedding elements can be seamlessly integrated with decor, dining, and entertainment through Weddings by Palladium, the ultimate resource for planning a timeless destination wedding surrounded by family, friends, and the unique culture of Mexico. Couples can choose from wedding ceremonies and receptions centered around a romantic beach pergola, beach gazebo, or a religious exchange of vows at the colonial-style Nuestra Señora de las Nieves chapel. Unique wedding packages designed by planner Karen Bussen range from the flexible Palladium with Love and the budget-friendly Lovebirds package to Bliss in Bloom with its lush floral arrangements, the Timeless appeal of lilies, pearls, and crystals, the new Evermore for a ceremony framed in ivy and dendrobium orchids, and sun-and-sea inspired Waves of Love for an unforgettable beach wedding.
GRAND PALLADIUM COLONIAL RESORT & SPA
Having four hotels to choose from means a Riviera Maya destination wedding with Palladium Hotel Group can accommodate as many guests as you desire. Families are welcome at the Grand Palladium White Sand Resort & Spa, Grand Palladium Colonial Resort & Spa, and Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort & Spa, while the TRS Yucatan Hotel is reserved for adults only. Each of the hotels provide signature Infinite Indulgence® all-inclusive amenities, including unlimited dining, drinks, entertainment, and activities, and all guests can enjoy the pampering body treatments and other experiences offered at the Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness center.
GRAND PALLADIUM KANTENAH RESORT & SPA
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The Destination Weddings Guide | P L A N N I N G
WE’VE ASKED A FEW EXPERTS TO WEIGH IN ON THE LATEST DESTINATION WEDDING TRENDS.
Plus, their top tips for setting a budget, picking the dream spot, designing the ceremony and even choosing whether you stay or go for the honeymoon.
ON LOCATION SHOW ME THE MONEY First thing’s first. Budget. Yes, it may be difficult for a couple that’s on the high of a happy engagement to have to wrap their heads around the question of how much they want to – or are able to – spend on their big day. Before you set your heart on saying your vows on a beach in the Caribbean, along the Mediterranean Sea or even in a European castle, start off by setting realistic goals. “Trying to get quotations in without having nailed down your wedding budget is a bit of a wrong-sided approach,” says Simone Sant-Ghuran, Caribbean wedding planning expert and author of the new book It’s Knot Difficult: A guide to wedding planning your way with a little help from a pro! “Yet,” she adds, “it’s often what many brides tend to do.” The couple, notes Robert Townshend, the founder and president of Total Advantage Travel & Tours in Toronto, really has to look at their invitation list and consider what they think would be affordable for their guests. “They have to keep in mind that some of their guests may be paying for five or six people depending on if they have children,” he adds. If a couple picks a very pricey
destination or resort, then they are likely to get a low positive RSVP rate. “In general, if a couple picks a hotel that is budgeted to their guestlist, they can expect that they will get a 35 per cent positive response. That’s why I tell people who are sending out 100 invitations to hold 35-40 seats – and I’m almost always right.” Shalene Dudley, the lead travel concierge at Latitude Concierge Travels in Oakville, On., agrees with SantGhuran. “Typically, clients set their budgets prior to speaking with a destination wedding specialist. We are here to guide them to the destination or resort/venue that works within their limits.” Perhaps even more importantly, destination specialists can even help set those limits, she adds. “We are also here to clarify whether that budget will work with the requirements they provide. The best way to set a clear and realistic budget is to schedule a consultation with a destination wedding specialist.” “Many brides nowadays are embracing the do-it-yourself (DIY) movement, not only because of financial constraints but also because they want to share their creativity with their guests and be original,” notes Sant-Ghuran. “…[but] there are some that I would advise not DIY-ing
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at all.” Photography, hair and makeup, and the most important detail, the catering, are things, she adds, better left to professional wedding planners. One final note: both Dudley and Townshend advise their clients that the thought of the cost should go beyond just their own. If you have a lot of families on your invitation list, Townshend adds, try to keep the flight under four hours and choose a hotel that has lots of kid-friendly options. “If your list includes a lot of people who have no concerns about the budget, then go for the gusto and have it wherever you dream of!” Dudley concurs. “This is your chance to choose yourselves and plan your dream wedding away. While considering the cost for your guests to travel, also select a resort/venue that you truly want. After all, the only ones remembering the day and the name of the resort will be you.”
SHALENE: Many of our clients are inquiring about
Europe, especially Portugal, Italy and Greece. These are countries on their bucket lists. Our job is to determine what they are looking for and direct them to the right location in the country. We have planned weddings in Madeira, Portugal; Amalfi Coast, Italy; and the island of Crete, in Greece.
JAMAICA
TOP 3 PLACES FOR A DESTINATION WEDDING ROBERT: Punta Cana, Dominican
Republic; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Mayan Riviera, Mexico
MEXICO
SHALENE: Los Cabos, Mexico; Castries,
St. Lucia; and Montego Bay, Jamaica
EDITOR’S PICKS: Sandals Montego
Bay, Jamaica; Weddings by Palladium Grand Palladium White Sand Resort & Spa, Riviera Maya, Mexico; the new Coral Level at Iberostar Selection Bávaro, Punta Cana; Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
ANY UP-AND-COMING DESTINATIONS? ROBERT: Galway, Ireland – getting married in a castle
and having the reception outside; Reykjavik, Iceland – beautiful in the summertime; Lanai – the smallest of the Hawaiian Islands. It still has ancient Hawaiian culture and traditions; Panama – great options for all-inclusive resorts now that the new airport has opened near Playa Blanca; Palm Island – in the Grenadines off the coast of Union Island. Small destination weddings work wonderfully here; Punta Delgada, Azores, Portugal – a little bit of Europe in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, with nonstop flights from Canada and hotels opening for weddings. 31 | PA L L A D I U M W E D D I N G S . C O M |
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The Destination Weddings Guide | P L A N N I N G ANGUILLA
TREND WATCH ROBERT: This past summer we’ve seen requests for weddings in Italy, Spain and Greece. We haven’t seen a lot of that before. Agents have to be prepared for this shift and educate themselves and their clients on what is required to OAHU get married in European countries.
TIMING IS EVERYTHING TB: How far in advance should
you start planning a destination wedding?
ROBERT: Start at least one year in
advance to get the venue at the hotel that they want. Keep in mind that most hotels offer two wedding times per day, one at 1pm and one at 4pm. The 4pm is the most coveted time and gets booked up sometimes more than a year in advance. Before confirming a wedding with a hotel, I always make sure that the 4pm wedding slot is available. SHALENE: Around 15-18 months in advance but we have
clients who start as far as 24 months out. This allows guests to have a longer time to save up and make payments. If you have a very specific date, venue or destination in mind, it is best to start this early to ensure your chances of securing all your “must-haves” and avoid disappointment.
TO SCOUT OR NOT TO SCOUT TB: Do you recommend the couple visit the destina-
tion prior to the wedding?
ROBERT: I always recommend that couples do their
homework. If that homework involves going to the resort for an inspection trip, then yes. If the couple is prepared to pay the cost of going to the destination, then by all means they should.
SHALENE: It is not necessary to visit the destination pri-
or to the wedding if you are working with a specialist. If you choose to do so, you should budget the full cost for the trip. Resort credits often only apply if you are visiting prior to securing the wedding date.
ST. LUCIA
FAVOURITE HONEYMOON DESTINATION? ROBERT: Anywhere in Hawaii. I always suggest that
the couple start their honeymoon with a few nights in Waikiki on Oahu and then go to a second island. I like to recommend Kona on the Big Island or Kaanapali Beach in Maui. If they are nature enthusiasts, then I would suggest Kauai as the second island they visit. SHALENE: St. Lucia is my favourite honeymoon destina-
tion. It offers some of the most unique and idyllic accommodations. Activities and experiences are boundless for any budget or level of activity. They range from social to solitude and extreme adventure to ultimate luxury. EDITOR’S PICK: Book a room at Nerea, a boutique hotel retreat with a focus on wellness, on the beach in Tulum, Mexico, to help recharge after the big day.
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DO YOU ALWAYS RECOMMEND THE COUPLE TO HONEYMOON IN THE SAME PLACE AS THEIR DESTINATION WEDDING? ROBERT: I always suggest that a couple go somewhere
else to honeymoon after their destination wedding! Their honeymoon should be someplace close by that is quiet, where they can be alone for a week. If a couple picks St. Martin for their wedding, then I would suggest they honeymoon on Anguilla. It’s not too far away but a completely different culture.
SHALENE: It definitely depends on a few factors: Can
you take the additional time off and just extend your stay? If so, we can either book a split stay or move to another property. Do you need to take the time later on in the year? Then you have to consider the cost of a new trip. Either way, we should discuss your budget and constraints at the beginning of planning.
ONE THING EVERYONE FORGETS? ROBERT: Before considering a destination, check out when
the best weather is for that destination. September in the Caribbean is hurricane season and it’s likely that the area will get hit with one. Look beyond the attractive prices to travel then. SHALENE: Everyone forgets that this may [also] be your honeymoon, so consider upgrading your room!
Both Robert Townshend’s Total Advantage Travel & Tours in Toronto (totaladvantagetravel.com) and Shalene Dudley’s Latitude Concierge Travels (latitudeconciergetravels.com) in Oakville are TravelSavers affiliates. Shalene is also a member of The 1000 Club, a first-of-its-kind global community created to recognize the individual travel advisor for their achievements in sales.
A collection of lifetime memories We understand the excitement, the joy and the great effort you are making to be in this breathtaking paradise for one of the most special moments in life. Take a look at our five Wedding Collections and find the one that suits your dream wedding; we have everything you need for a day that you and your guests will treasure forever. Are you ready to say yes?
Book through www.weddingsbyriu.com For more details, terms and conditions contact us at weddings@riu.com 33 | PA L L A D I U M W E D D I N G S . C O M | todaysbride.ca
Honeymoons were meant to be epic!
An epic honeymoon to Iberostar Selection Playa Mita in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico Approximately $3000 USD
Imagine your dream honeymoon in Mexico!
Mexico may have set the standard for unmatched service. And this only accentuates the breathtaking views and phenomenal food that keeps people coming back again and again For couples looking for an all-inclusive experience ripe with unique detailing, magical moments, and a team dedicated to exceeding your every expectawtion, Mexico is your perfect honeymoon destination. Iberostar Selection Playa Mita offers a romantic and exotic getaway for couples who want to escape the ordinary. With scenic surroundings and rich culture, the perfect experience becomes the perfect moment. As unique as a love story, couples can witness a true hideaway from the daily routine. Because a wedding without a honeymoon is like a birthday without cake. Terms and Conditions: *No purchase necessary. The contest begins at 1:00 PM EST on August 1, 2023, and ends at 11:59 PM EST December 31, 2023. The decisions of the judges are final and not subject to appeal. The winner must be a legal resident and must have reached the age of majority in their province of residence. The winner must be someone other than an employee, a representative of Iberostar Hotels and Resorts and their subsidiaries and affiliates, media partners, and advertising and promotional agencies. The winner will receive an 8-day 7-night, all-inclusive stay for two, at Iberostar Selection Playa Mita. This voucher is non-transferable and is subject to availability at the time of booking. The prize will be awarded in the form of a gift certificate, and all terms and conditions specified on the certificate shall apply, including blackout dates. The prize voucher will be provided to the winner(s), within 2 weeks of receiving the winner's name, and address. Airfare is not included. The approximate value of this prize is $3,000.00 USD; Based upon double occupancy. All other incidental charges are the responsibility of the certificate holder. Confirmation based upon the presentation of the voucher. No cash value. Any unused portion may not be refunded. Any other amenity may not replace package amenities. Other restrictions may apply. The prize will be awarded and the winner will be notified.
Get Inspired to
Dream
Differently
Plan a destination wedding as unique as your love story. Perfectly tailored to reflect who you are as a couple, we provide customization, enhanced sustainability, versatility and a guest experience unlike any other. You are here for the day of your dreams, and we are prepared to live up to that promise and create a lifetime of memories.
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For more information: www.iberostar.com/weddings @iberostarweddings
Mexico • Jamaica • Dominican Republic
as imagined by you
The Destination Weddings Guide | I N S P I R AT I O N
MARISSA & GARRETT
My Big, Beautiful Greek Wedding A N I N T I M AT E A F FA I R O N THE ISLAND OF CRETE
Photography: Cacie Caroll Venue: Dream art villa Dress: Katie May Gown from Revolve Bride Accessories: (Sleeves) @jaykaybraidsandbridal Hair and Makeup: @natasha.makeupartist Groomsmen and Groom attire: @menswearhouse
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After meeting Garrett Jolly on a mutual friend’s weekend trip to Las Vegas, Marissa Tinz says they clicked immediately and, after the weekend, they started dating. “We knew we wanted to do a small destination wedding since we both love to travel,” says Tinz of their decision to hold their big day on the Greek island of Crete. “After narrowing it down we decided to go with Greece because of the country’s villa accommodations and views. The culture in Greece is amazing and we wanted to have that on our special day.” Having all their guests stay in the villa they got married in made it extra special, she adds, “so it could be a three day celebration instead of just one day. We were able to plan different events and spend more time with everyone on the beautiful island. We found our dream venue!”
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todaysbride.ca
The Destination Weddings Guide | I N S P I R AT I O N
JACQUELINE & ROBERTO
Love, Italian Style
Photography Gianmarco Amico Venue Ngonia Bay Hotel, Piazza Angonia, Milazzo, Sicily Wedding dress Pronovias Second dress ba&sh Shoes Christian Louboutin Groom’s tuxedo Brunello Cucinelli Jewellery Swarovski Rings Cartier Hair Peppe Aspa Makeup Annalisa Zizzo Flowers Luana Calabrese Culinary/chef details Ngonia Bay
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After an encounter in Sicily, this couple embarked on a journey inspired by food and family. On a trip to see her Sicilian family, Jacqueline Nicosia happened to visit the church where her grandparents first met, more than 50 years ago. Italian chef Roberto Marotta was also there in what’s now the right place at the right time, and their passion ignited. Roberto, a celebrated chef in the Sicily region, followed Jacqueline to Toronto, and together they built their business, Ardo Hospitality Group, based on a mutual love of Sicilian food with their acclaimed restaurants, Ardo, and Dova, with Bar Ardo opening this fall. With all that happening, they put their wedding on hold. Family followed and, with their two kids, went back to Sicily to that very same church and finally held the wedding of their dreams. Aperitivo. Antipasti. Chef ’s kiss.
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todaysbride.ca
Love
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