Twirl New York Spring 2016

ISSUE NO. 6 SPRING 2016

THE DESTINATION ISSUE SPRING 2 016 WHERE TO WED | STUNNING FLORALS | TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

ta ble of cont e nt s

9 the checklist

10 destination planning tips

37 where to wed

the best venues & planners

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22

the mostest

ideas for guest-room gifts

45

27

destination designs

location-inspired invitations

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have gown, will travel dresses for every region

true colors

centerpieces in every shade

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a french fĂŞte in brittany

a blending of cultures married in mexico

MISSED AN ISSUE? click here

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from the top left photos by: lauren jonas photography, liz banfield, atelier isabey, chellise michael photography, shangri-la hotel paris, sean money + elizabeth fay, xavier navarro, heather waraksa, shawn connell for christian oth studio, laura grier

bellissima

in-flight musts

a wedding in lake como

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84 the honeymoonist's top picks

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from the top clockwise left: elizabeth w, fourteen forty design studio, belmond villa san michele, bhldn, kate spade, john labbe, xavier navarro, romona keveza

THE DESTINATION ISSUE

ABOUT THE COVER Our gorgeous cover, shot by Shawn Connell for Christian Oth Studio, features the wedding of Melisa and Chris who were married at Villa del Balbianello overlooking Lake Como. See their wedding on p. 73.

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No matter how many beautiful real weddings we receive, as a local site we strive to highlight those from the tri-state area and just beyond. But with more and more NYC-based couples choosing to get married in far-away places, we had to devote some coverage to destination weddings. From California to Florida and Paris to Tuscany, the possibilities of where to wed and how you do it, are endless.

The destination wedding industry is its own niche inside the wedding biz. There are tons of vendors – planners, designers, stationers, etc – right here in NYC, qualified and ready to help you plan a wedding away.

We realize a city couple may need as much guidance in planning their destination wedding from New York as a bride and groom coordinating a local city fête (a good place to start is our Destination I Do's checklist on page 9).

The biggest hurdles of a destination wedding are 1. Where to have it? and 2. Who can be trusted to help you pull it off? In Where to Wed (page 37), we scouted the best spots across the globe to get married at and more importantly, the trusted planners and designers who specialize in these far-off locales, who you can meet with right here in the city for brainstorming sessions and firming up the logistics.

And to show how easy it can be to pull off a beautiful destination wedding, we have shared three of our favorites with you: A French Fête (page 53), A Marriage of Cultures (page 63) and Bellissima (page 73), which will inspire even the most die-hard New York-loving couples to travel abroad to tie the knot.

The essence of who we are is to inspire locallybased brides and grooms, and sometimes those weddings happen to be held in venues we can’t find in our own backyard. And thus, our first ever Twirl New York: The Book, Destination Issue, was born.

Happy trails,

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The Twirl Girls

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ANNIE LEE

Known for her contemporary and fashionable approach to classic wedding traditions, Annie Lee is always creating fresh designs for her clients whether they’re getting married in New York, California or Europe.

The principal planner and founder of Daughter of Design, and author of Learn to Speak Wedding: Flashcards for Beginners, Annie is one of the most sought-after planners in the world, and has consistently been featured as one of Martha Stewart Wedding’s Top Planners. She has offices in Manhattan, Miami and L.A.

MARCY BLUM

For over 28 years Marcy Blum has been creating unforgettable events around the globe. Synonymous with innovation and style, brides and grooms rely on her to know not just the latest in fashion and food but also in art, etiquette and technology.

While based in New York, she has executed parties everywhere from California to Croatia. Featured on Vogue’s Best Wedding Planners List, Marcy has also been quoted in The New York Times, Martha Stewart Weddings and Vanity Fair.

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BRYAN RAFANELLI

As President and Chief Creative Officer of Rafanelli Events, Bryan works with his clients to create unforgettable settings and experiences.

Over the past 18 years he has planned and designed some of the country’s most exclusive high-profile events, including celebrity weddings, nonprofit galas and political fundraisers. His philosophy is that each event is unique and deserves a oneof-a-kind approach, which comes through in the innovative design, flawless execution, and level of personal service he and his team put forward.

photos courtesy of from left: carla ten eyck photography, jumby bay - a rosewood resort, nakai photography, fred marcus studio, carlos andres varela, shawn connell for christian oth studio, bryan rafanelli headshot and wedding by allan zepeda photography

SUSAN MOYNIHAN After 14 years scouting the world's most romantic destinations and resorts as travel editor at Condé Nast's Elegant Bride and editor in chief of Destination Weddings & Honeymoons, Susan now travels the globe as The Honeymoonist, planning bespoke travel for honeymoons, destination weddings and special occasions. With an eye for what's cool, paired with deep connections at luxury resorts around the globe, she creates exceptional experiences for her clients.

Destination I Do's Not sure where you want to wed but know it won't be in New York? Pick a location that holds a special place in your heart such as where you grew up or a favorite vacation spot.

Book a quick trip to scout venues and meet with potential vendors in person before signing any contracts.

Seek out a wedding planner familiar with the region and/or venue who can make planning less stressful, especially if there is a language barrier. Find top planners in New York who have destination experience on p. 41.

You're not responsible for guests' travel costs but you should get them discounted rates and recommend several hotels. Be sure to include this information on your wedsite and savethe-date card.

a signature welcome / lauren jonas photography

Consider the needs of senior relatives and families. If Grandma can't manage a long flight choose an easier destination for her to get to. And for your littlest guests, pick a venue with kid-friendly amenities.

p.11

website by riley & grey, save-the-date card with custom map by vera wang papers

Planning a wedding from afar can be quite the undertaking, but with a lot of organization, a knowledgeable planner, and these tips, planning a destination wedding will be a breeze.

Organize activities over the wedding weekend. Before the big day plan a golf outing, spa time and welcome party. If it's not in the budget to host multiple events, include suggested activities in the guest room gift.

Welcome your guests to the destination with a custom gift bag or box filled with a note from the bride and groom, snacks, and amenities to help them get through the weekend, such as a hangover kit. For a list of welcome gift essentials, click here.

Infuse local flavors into the details. Whatever you love about the location - the food, music, customs - include them in various wedding events, such as menu items, the entertainment or ceremony traditions.

When shopping for your wedding dress keep the destination in mind and how you are getting there. If you are flying ask the airline if they can store your dress in a closet or if you'll have to buy it its own seat. Once you arrive, lay it out and follow the salon's instructions on how to steam it.

You don't have to honeymoon where you choose to get married. Either fly off a day after the wedding to another spot or plan a delayed honeymoon a few weeks or months after the wedding. Wherever you're headed, don't forget these in-flight items in your carry-on bag.

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the

MOSTEST

Thank your guests for traveling to your wedding destination with a location-themed welcome gift photo abby jiu photography welcome gift by a signature welcome SPRING 2 016

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the MOSTEST

contain it Place everything in a themed bag, basket or box

See Design Shop

The Circle Tote is available in over a dozen patterns and three sizes, seedesignshop.com

Weddingstar

This 100% cotton Aqueous Personalized Tote Bag comes in two sizes and seven colors, weddingstar.com

Kate Aspen

Let the Adventure Begin Welcome Bag is made from kraft paper and can be personalized, kateaspen.com

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Jamali Garden

Handmade in Madagascar, these round Natural Raffia Baskets come in three sizes, jamaligarden.com

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Annie Lee, Daughter of Design

"Encourage your guests to use your wedding's welcome tote at home by not printing your names and wedding date on it. "

Baggu

This eco-friendly, and Brooklynbased, bag design company makes a variety of styles in solid colors and patterns, baggu.com

Maptote

The Grocery Tote features illustrated maps of cities, states, regions and countries, and can be customized to add specific locations, maptote.com

Be You Fashion

Made from natural raffia with a cotton lining, this bag comes in several colorways, including solids and patterns, beyoufashion.com

photo of annie lee by carlos andres varela

Online Fabric Store

An easy and inexpensive option is a simple jute tote bag, which can work at any destination, onlinefabricstore.net

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The Lucky Clover Trading Company This 12� steel Stella Rectangular Shopping Basket has swing wire handles, luckyclovertrading.com

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Beekman 1802

Made in New York, the Be Our Guest Amenity Kit comes with four travel bottles: shower gel, shampoo, conditioner and lotion, shop.beekman.com

Evian

Refresh the skin, even the most sensitive types, in high-altitude and tropical climates with Evian’s Natural Mineral Water Facial Spray, ulta.com

Sun Bum

Ensure your guests don’t get burned while away with a tube of sunscreen, but just in case add a ‘Cool Down’ lotion to the welcome bag too, trustthebum.com

travel essentials Shop for a few must-haves that are specific to the location

Eos

Avoid chapped lips with a Smooth Sphere Lip Balm with SPF protection, available in over 6 flavors and color-cordinated containers, ulta.com

Candlefish

Choose a fragrance from The Library at Candlefish – there are 100 of them! – that best suits your destination (we recommend #62 for the southern U.S., #4 in the mountains, #82 for Europe) for guests to enjoy in their hotel room or back home, candlefish.com

Annie's Tip

"I always put Avon Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard towellette packets in each bag so you're not spending your trip agonizing over bug bites."

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Bryan Rafanelli, who has planned destination weddings for Allison Williams and Chelsea Clinton, shares his guest-room gift essentials. bags ˚ Welcome guests' arrival.

and gifts should be completed one day prior to your

if the hotel will distribute items to each room or hand them ˚ Confirm out at check in.

allan zepeda photography

welcome bag do's and don'ts

distributing to the rooms, meet with the Hotel Manager or Head of Housekeeping before ˚ Ifguests start arriving to advise exactly where the bags are to be left in the room. I always suggest leaving them on the bed.

˚

Try and source as many things locally and have them delivered to your hotel on the day you arrive. Remember, you’re traveling to the destination too.

Rewind candles, made in Charles-ton, are custom blended for various wine scents, making them a great gift for vineyard weddings or local South Carolina affairs, rewinedcandles.com

what you are using as the bag and gifts. It would be a shame to invest in something ˚ Consider guests cannot carry back in their luggage. a schedule of the weekend’s activities, including times, loca˚ Add tions and dress. You would be amazed at the number of guests who forget the information or don’t bring invites with them.

Don't forget to include a schedule of events and

contact information. Custom card shown here by Katie Fischer Design, katiefischerdesign.com

one bag for each single person and one bag with two of ˚ Allocate everything for couples. essential items are: Aspirin (enough for the entire weekend), water ˚ Three (ask the hotel to replenish each night so guests won’t need to dive

TWIRL TIP

Some manufacturers offer discounted or wholesale prices when ordering large quantities

into the always expensive mini bars) and mints.

˚

No matter what the outside temperature, inside can often be chilly. A great gift is a cashmere wrap in a can, which can be customized with the wedding logo on the outside.

Pashminas come in a rainbow of colors, so find a shade

that matches your palette. LibbySue wrap, available in over 20 hues, amazon.com

˚

As part of your welcome note list some local favorites, such as museums, attractions, restaurants and stores. You can include the address, hours, distance from the hotel, the best route to get there, and a quick line about why you recommend it.

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Kikkerland Design Turkey Jerky

These tasty, all-natural snacks will satisfy guests’ hunger while they enjoy daytime, or late night, adventures, available in three flavors, pureprovisions.com

Complement beverages with a couple of straws. This wax-coated birch-themed design suits a mountainside setting, but choose from over a dozen colors and patterns, kikkerland.com

Mast Brothers

You can’t go wrong with chocolate. Take a visit to this Williamsburg shop to taste test all the flavors before selecting your favorite, mastbrothers.com

tasty treats Include snacks and drinks, which reflect your personal or local favorites

LadurĂŠe

Surprise guests when they return to their room one night with a box of macarons in a color or flavor you love, laduree.com

Sea Salt Nuts

An easy snack to toss in a welcome bag are nuts.

These peanuts are from Virginia and have a sea salt coating, bluecrabbay.com

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Nutty Goodness

A healthy snack is always a good idea. With these snack packs guests can enjoy an all-natural treat of nuts, berries, fruits and other yummy bites, nuttygoodness.com

Charleston Bloody Mary Mix

Some sort of cocktail mix is essential. We recommend this Blood Mary one, especially for weddings held in and around Charleston, charlestonmix.com

Grey Ghost Bakery

This South Carolina bakery has delicious cookies in a number of popular flavors, and can be packaged with personalized labels by Lettered Olive, greyghostbakery.com

Maker's Mark

Help guests avoid the mini bar with a 50ml bottle of whiskey made in Kentucky, bevmo.com

Annie's Tip

"Always choose a sweet, savory and healthy option."

Dry Sparkling

Go beyond regular water and place a flavored variety in the bag. Dry Sparkling makes 8 flavors, including lavender, cucumber and ginger, drysparkling.com

Pommery POP

It’s a celebration so get the party started as soon as guests arrive with a small bottle of champagne, shopwinedirect.com

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Tattly

For kids, or kids at heart, a temporary tattoo can be a lot of fun, and Tattly’s collection is so varied you’re sure to find a design or two that reflects your wedding theme or destination. Custom designs are available too, tattly.com

Travel Guides

Help friends and family enjoy the sights with a pocket guide to the area and English-language dictionary, chroniclebooks.com and lonelyplanet.com

get creative Encourage guests to explore the area, and pack in a few goodies just for fun

Sunnylife

Guests can lounge by the pool or on the beach with their favorite music playing from the Beach Sounds speaker and radio, sunnylife.com

Oxygen Plus

For high altitude destinations, add Oxygen Plus's O+ Mini in case anyone feels a little woozy, oxygenplus.com

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Kid-Friendly Gifts

Pack a coloring book of your destination and a box of crayons or pencils to keep younger guests occupied, barnesandnoble.com and crayola.com

Annie's Tip

"Make sure your guests have the required number of blank pages in their passport, and that the expiration date is more than 6 months away. Visit travel.state.gov for country specific regulations."

Ban.do

Send a pre-wedding gift a few weeks before the big day with event reminders and a festive luggage tag or passport holder guests can use for the trip, bando.com

Lantern Press

A deck of cards, available in hundreds of customizable designs, can reflect your location or theme and be one of the items guests can use long after you’ve said, “I do”, zazzle.com

Camille Monaco Designs

Include a tongue-and-cheek door hanger, which can be customized with your name, location and wedding date, etsy.com

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destination

DESIGNS

Set the tone for your wedding with an invitation that reflects the place where you'll wed

For a European destination wedding, Signe and Scott commissioned a custom invitation suite from Ceci New York. The couture letterpress design, in shades of yellows and blues, features a floral-patterned envelope liner and informative map on the interior of the invitation wrap, so guests could discover all there was to enjoy during their trip to Denmark. Pricing starts at $35 per set based on quantity of 100, cecinewyork.com.

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< STYLE GUIDE >

somewhere beyond the sea For a tropical locale, choose design elements that pick up on the beach setting

bella figura Makri is a beachy, hand-drawn invitation with hand calligraphy by Kelle McCarter for Bella Figura, starting at $2,065 for a four-piece set per 100, bellafigura.com.

regas This letterpress and flat printed suite, Anastasia & Casey, features custom watercolor illustrations, starting at $2,850 for a four-piece invitation suite per 100, regasstudio.com.

village invites This letterpressed save-the-date card comes with a foil-stamped custom luggage tag. $1,750, based on quantity of 100, villageinvites.com

village invites The custom Lippman Suite design features a beachy fabric belly band and nautical map. $3,000, based on quantity of 100, villageinvites.com.

cheree berry paper Pura Vida has a textured leafing pattern mixed with a floral design on each of the suiteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s elements, including the envelope liner. Starting at $2,000, based on quantity of 100, chereeberrypaper.com.

smock Vista is a digitally printed, handpainted watercolor design with silver foil stamping on white bamboo paper. Starting at $1,645 for a four-piece set based on quantity of 100. To find a retailer visit smockpaper.com/dealers.

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foreign lands For your international destination, find inspiration in the country's culture and heritage

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alpine creative group The Meet Me in Mexico save the date has a silkscreened serape, sombrero magnet, maraca key chain and booklet with travel details in a custom Kraft box. $35 each per set of 100, alpinecreativegroup.com.

village invites Fulton Suite, a custom design for a wedding in Lake Como, Italy, includes personalized passport guides and a vintage RSVP postcard. $5,900, based on quantity of 100, villageinvites.com.

east six This rustic and romantic engraved suite, Amy & Keith, showcases a flourished script and custom illustration on an ultra thick, edged stock. Price upon request, eastsix.com.

ceci new york Vinita by Ceci New York Couture features a custom envelope lined with a hand-painted watercolor of Venice. A foil stamped folder with interior pockets holds the details for each event. Price starts at $40 each based on quantity of 100, cecinewyork.com.

shindig bespoke Hotel Cartagena features the coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal photos of the city on the back of the invitation, which is wrapped with lokta paper in a tropical leaf pattern and bound with a custom leather tag. $4,200 based on quantity of 100, shindigbespoke.com.

regas Rebecca & Isauro is a letterpress printed invitation suite featuring a flat printed vellum wrap with a custom map around the insert cards. $3,450 for a four-piece set with a flat printed vellum map, based on quantity of 100, regasstudio.com.

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field of dreams Whether your wedding is on a farm, in a garden or at a ranch, these designs will convey why you love the location you chose

rabbit rabbit design house The custom Marfa Suite by Arianna Berk of Rabbit Rabbit Design House features hand lettering and illustrations in watercolor, gouache and ink. Pricing will vary based on design and components, rabbitrabbitdesign.com.

cheree berry paper From this Hay Forward is a die-cut invitation with a reply postcard attached for an all-in-one set. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love you a bushel and a peckâ&#x20AC;? is printed on the inner envelope liner. Prices start at $1,500 per 100, chereeberrypaper.com.

bella figura Bittersweet is a whimsical woodland invitation designed by Lindsy Talarico for Bella Figura and features a mix of letterpress printing and foil stamping, starting at $2,200 for a four-piece set based on quantity of 100, bellafigura.com.

bella figura Bounty, a rustic wreath style invitation, features hand calligraphy accents by Patricia Mumau for Bella Figura, starting at $2,375 for a four-piece set based on quantity of 100, bellafigura.com.

regas Rae & Craig is a letterpress invitation suite featuring a custom hand-drawn illustration of the Sun Valley, Idaho setting. $3,650 for a four-piece set, based on quantity of 100, regasstudio.com.

cheree berry paper A Cheree Berry Paper designer can create a custom watercolor design for your wedding stationery based on the location or other inspiration. Starting at $2,500 based on quantity of 100, chereeberrypaper.com.

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GET Y OU R W E D D I NG PU B L I S H E D IN

See Lizzie and Peter's engagement party at TwirlWeddings.com!

photo by chellise michael photography

Your p i c t u res co uld be publi s h ed on TwirlWed d ing s.com or in a n u p coming issue of T h e B o o k. Subm i t ph o to s fro m you r eng a g ement p a rty, eng a g ement shoot, b rid a l sh ower, reh ea r s a l di n n er, p os t-wed d ing b ru nch, a nd of cou r s e the wedding d ay to T h e Tw i rl Gi rls at s ubmis s ions @twirlwed d ing s.com for a n a p plic ation.

A n d to see som e of the real weddings and parties al ready publ i s hed on Twirl New York v is it

TWIRLWEDDINGS.COM

< STYLE GUIDE >

TRUE COLORS A rainbow of inspiration for your reception centerpieces

photo by chellise michael photography floral design by violet and verde SPRING 2016

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bright & bold

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Centerpieces with bright hues are optimistic and celebratory, just like a wedding should be. The ways in which florists can work their magic arranging beautiful blooms in a range of colors varies greatly.

Bridget Reale of Violet and Verde loves working with brights because, as she says, they pop on the tables. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bright colors are really attention getting and stand out among all the other things that fill the table. I find couples who want their wedding to be more of a fun, party atmosphere go for brights. They also work really well in a white or light-colored venue." As for which types of flowers she prefers to use, dahlias, ranunculus and zinnias are her top picks for brightly-hued blooms.

1 Floral Design by Renny & Reed, Photo by Shawn Connell/Christian Oth Studio 2 Floral Design by

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Karen Bussen, Photo by Christian Oth Studio 3 Floral Design by Weddings by MWD Lifestyles 4 Floral Design by Hana Floral Design, Photo by Robert Norman Photography 5 Floral Design by Stone Kelly

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Events, Photo by Brian Dorsey Studios 6 Floral Design

by SBK Event Design, Photo by Fred Marcus Studio 7 Floral Design by Violet and Verde, Photo by Brklyn View Photography 8 Floral Design by Violet and

Verde, Photo by CLY by Chung 9 Floral Design by Violet and Verde, Photo by Elisabeth Millay Photography

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classic white From the fashion to the florals, nothing is as timeless as a white wedding. Your floral designer can get creative when using this traditional hue because there are so many blooms in white to choose from, and ways to display them. You can pick a different type of white flower for each part of the wedding — ceremony, cocktails, reception — or use the same bloom throughout the whole event. Hamptonsbased planner Sarah Duke of Duke + Van Deusen often works with all white blooms. "The all-white centerpiece is such a classic Hamptons look, it never goes out of style! We love how it looks beneath a sailcloth tent and enjoy the pop of color that the green foliage can add.” For couples who can’t decide which white bloom to use, you can mix different varieties on the same table or each table gets a single type of flower, all in white of course.

1 Floral Design by Hana Floral Design, Photo by Leila Brewster Photography 2 Floral Design by Weddings by MWD Lifestyles, Photo by

Chris Cappozziello

Photography 3 Event by Duke + Van Deusen, Floral Design by Ron Wendt Designs, Photo by Ira Lippke Studios 4 Floral Design by Violet and Verde, Photo

by Adam and Sam Photography 5 Event by Duke + Van

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Deusen, Floral Design by Pennington Flowers, Photo

by Cappy Hotchkiss Photography 6 Floral Design by Bride & Blossom, Photo by Stephen Govel Photography 7 Floral Design by Weddings by MWD Lifestyles, Photo by Chris Cappozziello Photography 8 Event

by Colin Cowie Celebrations, Photo by Colin Miller Photography 9 Floral Design by Violet and Verde, Photo by Blue Barn Photography SPRING 2 016

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pretty pastels Pinks, lavenders, greens and yellows can make quite a romantic statement on your reception table.

Both stunning and versatile, you can opt for pastel blooms in a garden, ballroom and even a loft setting as long as the tables are lit so everyone can appreciate their true beauty. Denise Fasanello of Denise Fasanello Flowers suggests pairing what may seem like unorthodox hues with basic pastels for a more dramatic effect. “Pastels can be more sophisticated than the baby pinks and blues one associates with the color scheme,” she explains. “I like to add variations of cream and taupe to the mix to make it moodier. Lavender and grey are lovely together.”

Just don’t pick too many colors she advises. “If you want pastel-colored flowers I would avoid mixing too many colors together otherwise you run the risk of it looking too juvenile.”

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1 Floral Design by Blush Floral Design, Photo by Shell Dransart / Wildflower Studio Photography 2 Floral Design by Violet and Verde, Photo by Charlie Juliet Photography 3 Floral Design by Denise Fasanello Flowers, Photo by Erik Ekroth Photography 4 Floral Design by Violet and Verde, Photo by CLY by Matthew 5 Floral Design and Photo by Chris Hessney, Hessney & Co. 6 Floral Design by Rountree Flowers, Photo by Charlie Juliet Photography 7 Floral Design

by Preston Bailey Designs, Photo by John Labbe 8 Floral Design and Photo by Edelweiss Floral Atelier 9 Floral Design by Violet and Verde, Photo by Johnny Wolf Photography

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monochromatic Make a modern design statement with a monochromatic centerpiece. Marc Wilson of Weddings by MWD Lifestyles agrees, but also tells Twirl New York that a monochromatic look isn’t exclusively for couples with a modern aesthetic. “Couples who favor a simple, clean aesthetic, will gravitate towards a monochromatic centerpiece.” Marc recommends dianthus for a monochromatic arrangement because they are available year round. “We love using clusters of dianthus which come in so many colors and really execute the monochromatic look and feel.” For couples who can’t decide on just one color for their wedding’s palette consider using one color for the ceremony, another for the reception and yet another for your afterparty. "With a rotating color palette," he adds, "you can tell a story within each room."

1 Event by Colin Cowie Celebrations, Photo by Colin Miller Photography 2 Floral Design by Weddings

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by MWD Lifestyles, Photo by Peter Peckfield Photography 3 Event by Colin Cowie Celebrations, Photo by Colin Miller Photography 4 Event by Colin Cowie Celebrations, Photo by Brian Dorsey Studios 5 Floral Design by Jerry Sibal, Photo by Brian Dorsey Studios 6 Floral Design by Weddings by MWD Lifestyles, Photo by Chris Fig Photography 7 Event by Colin Cowie Celebrations, Photo by Colin Miller Photography 8 Floral Design by Michelle Rago Destinations, Photo by Brian Dorsey Studios 9 Floral Design by Candi’s Floral Creations, Photo

by Charlie Juliet Photography SPRING 2 016

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< the maps >

WHERE TO WED The world's best venues, planners and designers for a destination wedding

ZOLA

PHOTO BY CHARLOTTE JENKS LEWIS AT SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, PARIS

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FRANCE

Paris is rich in romance. Its gilded hotel ballrooms and picturesque streets makes it a popular destination for New Yorkers, but don’t dismiss the rolling hills of the French countryside if you’re thinking of saying “Je fais” in France.

Château d'Esclimont Centre, Centre-Val de Loire esclimont.com

Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc Antibes Cedex, Côte d'Azur hotel-du-cap-eden-roc.com

Marrying in France

Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat

Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris Paris, Île-de-France fourseasons.com/paris Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat Saint-Jean Cap-Ferrat, Côte d’Azur fourseasons.com/capferrat

Le Meurice Paris, Île-de-France dorchestercollection.com

Hôtel Crillon le Brave Crillon le Brave, Côte d'Azur crillonlebrave.com

Visit ambafrance-us.org for a complete list of requirements.

Ritz Paris Paris, Île-de-France ritzparis.com Shangri-La Hotel, Paris Paris, Île-de-France shangri-la.com/paris

ITALY

Get inspired by this antique-inspired wedding in Brittany planned by Loli Events on p. 49.

photo by xavier navarro

Hôtel Crillon le Brave

Non-residents may find it easier to have a civil ceremony in New York before leaving for France.

If you don’t want to wed ahead of time, note that there is a 40-day residency requirement and a civil ceremony must take place at a Mairie (city hall) before a religious ceremony can be held.

Many celebrities have chosen Italian villas for their nuptials and for good reason. The delicious cuisine, stunning landscapes and historic venues offer couples a dreamy setting for their wedding ceremony and reception. And unlike France, getting married in Italy isn’t as complicated.

Belmond Villa San Michele Fiesole, Tuscany belmond.com

Marrying in Italy

Borgo Egnazia Fasano, Brindisi borgoegnazia.com Four Seasons Hotel Firenze Firenze, Tuscany fourseasons.com/florence

La Posta Vecchia

Hotel Palazzo Murat Positano, Campania palazzomurat.it

Monteverdi Tuscany Sarteano, Tuscany monteverdituscany.com

La Posta Vecchia Ladispoli, Lazio lapostavecchia.com

Villa del Balbianello Lenno, Lombardy villabalbianello.com

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There is no residency requirement to wed in Italy and many towns will waive the requirement to announce your intent to marry.

A civil ceremony is required if you’re not having a Roman Catholic service.

All legal documents, such as birth certificates and divorce decrees, if this is a second marriage, must be translated into Italian.

Visit italy.usembassy.gov for a complete list of requirements

MEXICO & THE CARIBBEAN

Couples who want to marry in paradise, but don't want to spend more than a few hours on a plane, can pick an oceanfront property on more than a dozen Caribbean islands or the east coast of Mexico.

MEXICO

Banyan Tree Mayakoba Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya banyantree.com

Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya belmond.com NIZUC Resort & Spa Punta Nizuc, CancĂşn nizuc.com Rosewood Mayakoba Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya rosewoodhotels.com

THE CARIBBEAN

Anguilla Malliouhana, An Auberge Resort malliouhana.aubergeresorts.com

Malliouhana Bahamas One & Only Ocean Club Nassau, Bahamas oneandonlyresorts.com Cayman Islands Caribbean Club Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands caribclub.com Cayman Islands The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands ritzcarlton.com

Marrying in Mexico There are no residency requirements for noncitizens to marry in Mexico, but couples must show their passport and tourist card in order to obtain a license.

See a stunning wedding planned and designed by AaB Creates at Nizuc Resort & Spa on p. 60.

A civil ceremony is required and each stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s civil registry has its own set of laws and guidelines you have to follow.

If you want to have a religious ceremony you must also have a civil one in order for the marriage to be legally recognized.

Visit matamoros.usconsulate.gov for a complete list of requirements.

Jamaica Round Hill Hotel and Villas Montego Bay, Jamaica roundhill.com Puerto Rico Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Dorado, Puerto Rico ritzcarlton.com St. Lucia Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort Soufriere, Saint Lucia viceroyhotelsandresorts.com

photo by heather waraksa

Marrying in the Caribbean Each country has its own laws on noncitizens marrying there, so turn to local tourism boards and government websites for residency requirements, legal documentation and civil vs. religious ceremony rules.

Avoid hurricane season between June 1 and November 30, unless the isAmanyara land you want to wed at is below the hurricane belt, such as Aruba and Barbados.

The U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico be the most hassle-free destinations.

Caribbean Club will

Gay marriage is not legal in every country, Turks and Caicos so be sure to check if the island's laws Amanyara allow for civil or religious ceremonies Turks and Caicos Islands, to take place before booking a venue.

British West Indies aman.com SPRING 2 016

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MOUNTAINSIDE

Getting married in the shadow of the Rocky or Teton Mountains can be quite beautiful in any season. There are many rustic-style venues to choose from that offer sweeping views as well as local activities you and your guests can enjoy.

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole Teton Village, Wyoming fourseasons.com/jacksonhole Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler Whistler, British Columbia fourseasons.com/whistler

The Little Nell The Little Nell Aspen, Colorado thelittlenell.com

Bachelor Gulch

The Lodge & Spa at Bush Creek Ranch Saratoga, Wyoming brushcreekranch.com The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch Avon, Colorado ritzcarlton.com Sonnenalp Hotel Vail, Colorado sonnenalp.com

CALIFORNIA

Marrying Out West California marriage license fees vary in the state depending on the county you apply in and if it is a public or confidential license.

Licenses are valid for 90 days.

Colorado charges a $30 license fee, which is good for 35 days. There is no waiting period but both of you must be present to apply and sign for it.

Wyoming also charges a $30 fee, but the license is good for one year from the date it is issued. Both parties need to be present when applying.

To get married in British Columbia, the bride and groom both need to present a passport or birth certificate and pay a $100 licensing fee. The license is valid for three months.

From Art Deco ballrooms to breathtaking vineyards, The Golden State offers couples the largest range of destinations to choose from. Guests are sure to find plenty to-do while visiting any county or region, so be sure to include a list of local attractions in your welcome bag.

The Battery San Francisco, California thebatterysf.com

Hotel Del Coronado

The Carneros Inn Napa, California thecarnerosinn.com

The Resort at Pelican Hill Newport Coast, California pelicanhill.com

The Resort at Pelican Hill

Hotel Del Coronado Coronado, California hoteldel.com

Montage Laguna Beach

Montage Laguna Beach Laguna Beach, California montagehotels.com/lagunabeach

Catalina Casino Ballroom Avalon, California visitcatalinaisland.com

Ojai Valley Inn & Spa Ojai, California ojairesort.com

Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara Santa Barbara, California fourseasons.com/santabarbara

Post Ranch Inn Big Sur, California postranchinn.com

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San Ysidro Ranch Santa Barbara, California sanysidroranch.com Shutters on the Beach Santa Monica, California shuttersonthebeach.com Ventana Inn & Spa Big Sur, California jdvhotels.com

DESIGNERS & PLANNERS

While many can execute your wedding wherever the destination is, the following list highlights New York-based planning and design firms with expertise in specific locales beyond the City and Hamptons.

COMPANY

WHERE THEY'VE WORKED

TIDBITS

AaB Creates (212) 334-0005 aabcreates.com

California, Hawaii, Maine, Vermont, Virginia, Dominican Republic, Mexico and Jamaica

This dynamic duo can both plan and design your wedding wherever you decide to say “I do.”

Fluent in Spanish, they have extensive experience working in Mexico, but have also worked on other Caribbean islands and in a number of states on both coasts.

Bianca B (212) 757-0939 biancab.com

Colorado, Florida, Massachusetts, England, France, Israel, Italy, Puerto Rico and St. Barths

Having an office in Miami and New York makes planning a Florida or Caribbean wedding a breeze with Bianca B. Her years of planning events include weddings that have taken place at resorts and hotels as well as private clubs and estates.

Colin Cowie Celebrations (212) 396-9007 colincowie.com

Across all of the United States, Anguilla, Australia, Bahamas, Bora Bora, Canada, Dubai, England, Fiji, France, Greece, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Mustique, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, St. Barths and Switzerland

Hollywood’s go-to wedding planner and event designer for decades, Colin and his team have extensive experience working worldwide and can flawlessly coordinate a wedding anywhere in the world no matter how remote.

Daughter of Design (646) 595-9009 daughterofdesign.com

The Berkshires, California, Florida, Anguilla, Bali, Italy, Mexico and St. Barths

Inspired by fashion, art and interior design, Annie Lee works with couples as a planner and visionary, conceptualizing every wedding detail.

Collaborating with a creative team, a Daughter of Design wedding is sure to be timeless and tasteful, with an authentic look and feel reflecting the couple and the location.

David Beahm Experiences (212) 279-1344 davidbeahm.com

Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, South Carolina, Utah, Washington, D.C., France, Italy, Greece, Jamaica and Mexico

While David and his creative team can work pretty much anywhere, their expertise is in transforming spaces to create the look you’re envisioning whether it’s a man-made garden in a ballroom, the chicest of rustic settings or an interactive affair.

David Reinhard Events (212) 535-1520 davidreinhard.com

California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Bahamas, France, Italy, Peter Island and Turks and Caicos

On the short list of Martha Stewart Weddings' preferred planners since 2001, Ann David and Nicky Reinhard have a reputation for knowing the finest vendors in every market and executing logistics and details seamlessly whether working at a private home, resort or international destination. They limit the number of events they do each year, so connect with them soon after you're engaged to check their availability.

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COMPANY

WHERE THEY'VE WORKED

TIDBITS

Firefly Events (917) 921-6052 firefly-events.com

California, Colorado, Maine, Maryland, New Mexico, North Carolina, South Carolina, Dominican Republic, France, Israel, Jamaica, Mexico, Morocco and Puerto Rico

This bi-coastal firm, with planners who speak Spanish and French, has a reputation of creating distinct details that incorporate the couple's relationship. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve designed centerpieces from found objects, customized linens from fabric a couple brought back from vacation, and hired a cover band to recreate a past date night.

JZ Events (212) 362-4755 jzevents.com

California, Florida, Anguilla, Bahamas, the British Virgin Islands, France, Italy, Jamaica and St. John

Jennifer Zabinski's eponymous firm has been executing weddings in some of the world's most exclusive destinations for over 15 years. From The Breakers in Palm Beach to Sir Richard Branson's private island, Necker Island, Jennifer and her team will ensure that every logistical and design detail is taken care of long before the couple walks down the aisle.

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3 Things to Keep in Mind from Marcy Blum Choose a destination with the financial status of your guests in mind, unless you're picking up the travel and accommodations tab. Sometimes a venue the couple can afford to host a wedding at is unaffordable for their friends to get to or stay at.

Make sure you source as many things as possible from the place where you are hosting the wedding in order to avoid costly shipping and customs fees.

Check if there are any curfews. Couples are often disappointed that vineyards, estates on islands and luxury hotels have earlier noise curfews than they anticipated.

photo by nakai photography

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Don't forget to pack these travel essentials for your flight! satchel backpack by timbuk2 available at timbuk2.com

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1. Rafanelli Events, ALLAN ZEPEDA PHOTOGRAPHY, shot in Istanbul, Turkey, 2. Loli Events, Le Secret d'Audrey Photography, shot at the Rodin Museum in Paris, France, 3.

Marcy Blum Associates, Fred Marcus Photography, shot in Tuscany, Italy, 4. David Beahm Experiences, Kevin Weinstein Photography, shot at Amangiri in Lake Powell, Utah, 5.

Loulie Walker Events, Patricia Lyons Photography, shot at a private residence, Jupiter Island, Florida 6. David Reinhard Events, Jamie Watts Photography, shot at The Ocean Course Clubhouse, Kiawah Island, South Carolina

COMPANY

WHERE THEY'VE WORKED

TIDBITS

Loli Events (646) 481-2724 lolievents.com

Connecticut, Rhode Island and France

Loulie Walker Events, Inc. (212) 316-6135 louliewalkerevents.com

California, Colorado, Florida, Maine, Massachusettes, Washington, D.C., Anguilla and Antigua

With offices in New York and Paris, Loli Events has planned and designed weddings in several of France's most popular destinations. Their team can direct you to the most sought-after vendors in the country and translate your vision to them.

Frequently producing weddings over the course of several days, Loulie, who works on a limited number of events each year, has an attention to detail that is surpassed by few. Using the couple’s backstory as a guide, she tells their story through intricate design and details.

Marcy Blum Associates (212) 929-9814 marcyblum.com

California, Colorado, Florida, Maine, Massachusettes, Rhode Island, Texas, Croatia, England, Hungary, Italy, Mexico and Switzerland

This grande dame of the wedding world has worked with Hollywood stars, NBA players and many of the boldface names you read about on Page Six. A former restaurateur, foodies will be delighted to know she is an expert in catering and pairings and will ensure your guests will be more than pleased with the menu.

Michelle Rago Destinations (212) 877-7747

California, Florida, Maine, Minnesota, Missouri, Rhode Island, Anguilla, Bahamas, France, Greece, Italy, Jamaica, Mexico and Turks and Caicos

Michelle has executed events around the world for the most discerning of clients. Each wedding is visually stunning and reflects the location through creative details, including decor, food, stationery and entertainment.

Rafanelli Events (888) 593-1220 rafanellievents.com

Florida, Massachusetts, Texas, Washington, D.C., Wyoming, Bahamas, France, Turkey and St. Lucia

If you’re planning multiple events overseas, you want Bryan Rafanelli and his team creating the design and managing logistics. We’ve heard numerous stories of how his cool-under-pressure reactions ensured that the wedding went off without a hitch, and have seen the pictures to prove it.

Sofia Crokos Events (212) 929-1076 sofiacrokos.com

California, Florida, Massachusettes, Bahamas, France, Greece, Mexico, Nevis, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, Turkey and Turks and Caicos

Specializing in destination weddings, Sofia has a Zen approach to planning. Sought out for her original designs that reflect the couple, she has worked at venues around the world. Her Greek heritage has led her to foster a strong connection with Greece, where she has produced events in Athens, Santorini, and other Greek islands.

Tara Guérard Soirée (843) 577-5006 taraguerardsoiree.com

Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Mexico

Based in Charleston, with a second office in Manhattan, Tara is one of the nation's leading planners and designers who truly put southern weddings on the map. Clients flock to her for interiors that give each reception the feeling that you're celebrating in the couple's home. Tara and her team work on less than a dozen weddings per year.

michelleragodestinations.com

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SOUTHERN U.S.

States below the Mason-Dixon Line have some of the most beautiful estates, hotels and gardens in the country. You can wed at an historic home on hundreds of acres or an opulent resort depending on what look you want for your wedding day.

The Addison Grove Austin, TX theaddisongrove.com

The Gadsden House Charleston, South Carolina gadsdenhouse.com

Biltmore Estate Asheville, North Carolina biltmore.com

Lowndes Grove Plantation Charleston, South Carolina pphgcharleston.com The Merrimon-Wynne House Raleigh, North Carolina merrimonwynne.com Middleton Place Charleston, South Carolina middletonplace.org

Biltmore Estate

Old Ursuline Convent New Orleans, Louisiana stlouiscathedral.org

Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina boonehallplantation.com

Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards North Garden, Virginia pippinhillfarm.com

The Breakers Palm Beach Palm Beach, Florida thebreakers.com

photo by tec petaja

The Cloister at Sea Island Sea Island, Georgia seaisland.com

The Cloister at Sea Island

Pippin HIll Farm & Vineyards The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island Fernandina Beach, Florida ritzcarlton.com

The Cooper Estate St. Redland, Florida thecooperestate.com

The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Resort Kiawah Island, South Carolina kiawahresort.com

Fontainebleau Miami Beach Miami Beach, Florida fontainebleau.com

The William Aiken House Charleston, South Carolina pphgcharleston.com

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Marrying in the South Florida charges a $93.50 license fee and waives the waiting period for nonresidents. You can apply for a license in any county, and it is valid for 60 days.

If neither one of you is a resident of the state of Georgia, you must both apply for a license in the county you wish to marry in. Fees vary by county.

North Carolina charges a $60 license fee, which is valid for 60 days, and after the ceremony it must be returned to the issuing county to be recorded.

Louisiana license fees vary by parish.

There is a 72-hour waiting period after a license is issued, which may be waived under some circumstances.

Waiting periods and licensing fees vary by county in South Carolina, and there is no expiration date once the license has been issued.

License fees vary by county in Texas, but can be applied for in any one of them. There is a 72hour waiting period after it is issued, and it's valid for 90 days.

Virginia charges a $30 fee for a marriage license, available in any county in the state. There is no waiting period, and the license is valid for 60 days.

The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

FASHION REPORT

H AV E GOW N, WILL TRAVEL Finding the right dress and accessories for a destination wedding

You may have heard this before, but you shouldn’t shop for a wedding dress until you’ve booked a venue, because many times the location and season will dictate the style of your gown. This couldn’t be more true for brides planning a destination wedding.

“I always tell my brides you need to have three things before you can come in and shop: a fiancé, a date and a venue.

None of these are negotiable," explains Mark Ingram, owner of the Mark Ingram Atelier. “Shopping for a gown without a venue is like planning a ski trip in the Bahamas!”

A destination wedding adds a whole other dimension to finding your gown. By design, it incorporates the locale into its theme, including each of your weddingweekend looks. With multiple events planned you may want to find dresses and accessories that complement each other in style or opt for several that are completely different from one another.

While destination weddings originally lent themselves to casual, informal settings, Michelle Rago, owner of the firm Michelle Rago Destinations, tells Twirl New York that she's seen an increase in formal, black-tie affairs even when it's an outdoor celebration. "When it comes

to choosing the right gown for a destination wedding, there really are no rules. We always suggest taking into consideration the style of the locale to help narrow your choice, but I've seen brides marry barefoot on a beach in Oscar de la Renta and teetering over a cliff on the French Riviera in Reem Acra."

Consider the venue, weather and the overall atmosphere of the location when shopping. Cooler spots, such as Jackson Hole, Wyoming, may require sleeves or some type of bolero while tropical spots lend themselves to lighter fabrics and fewer embellishments.

"Definitely take the weather of the destination into consideration," advises New York and Charleston based wedding planner and designer Tara Guerard.

"Check with the venue manager on how cool it can get after the sun sets, and consider your options based on if you'll be outside all night or in a tent. If the photo by sean money + elizabeth fay temperature tends to dip you may want to consider a gown with sleeves or at least a wrap, jacket or cape to keep you warm and comfortable."

So whether you decide to wed in the mountains, at a castle or on the Vegas strip, we found the headto-toe looks befitting any destination.

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FASHION REPORT

European Castle A castle in Europe is becoming a favorite destination for New York brides. And why not? Who wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to feel like royalty on her wedding day with her very own Prince Charming at her side? Play the part in a picturesque princess-style wedding gown for the ceremony and reception in these regal accessories.

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1. chateau de challain, loire valley, france, photo by shawn connell for christian oth studio 2. alon livne white available at mark ingram atelier 3. berta available at l'fay bridal 4. andrew prince available at kentshire galleries at bergdorf goodman 5. haute bride available at kleinfeld 6. peter langner available at kleinfeld 7. christian louboutin available at christian louboutin

FASHION REPORT

Mountainside Every season is ideal for a wedding in the mountains, which offers up a beautiful, natural setting with florals and colors that are sure to inspire. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re thinking a snow-capped mountain would make a superb backdrop, find a wedding-day look that suits the scene with icy crystal beading and fur-trimmed accessories.

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1. aquazzura available at saks fifth avenue 2. reem acra available at reem acra 3. fendi available at bergdorf goodman 4. adrianna orsini available at saks fifth avenue 5.the ritz-carlton bachelor gulch, avon, colorado 6. emmalina gloves available at bhldn 7. sofiacashmere available at bergdorf goodman 8. erin cole available at bridal reflections

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FASHION REPORT

Nautical New England Newport, Marthaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vineyard and the coast of Maine are a few of the nautical-inspired destinations for a preppy-chic-meets-vintage Grace Kelly wedding. Take the nautical theme as far as you want with anchor logos and sailing flag details, and for your look, make navy your something blue and add wedding-day jewelry set with sapphires.

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5 1. eric javits available at ericjavits.com 2. dee hutton for mark ingram atelier available at mark ingram atelier 3. romona keveza available at romona keveza flagship boutique 4. kate spade available at kate spade 5. mikimoto available at mikimoto 6. castle hill inn, newport, rhode island

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FASHION REPORT

Southern Plantation The expansive grounds of a plantation with multiple buildings on property gives couples a wide selection of charming, romantic and even whimsical locations for their ceremony, reception and after party. Flowers in abundance are a must and you can choose to wear them in a myriad of ways, from floral lace gowns to fresh flower headpieces to blooming jewels.

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1. keren wolf available at kerenwolf.com 2. legare waring house at charles towne landing state historic site, charleston, south carolina, photo by sean money + elizabeth fay 3. lela rose available at the plumed serpent bridal 4. amsale available at amsale flagship salon 5. floral crown available at stone fox bride 6. sophia webster available at sophiawebster.com

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FASHION REPORT

Viva Las Vegas Glitz and glamour is pretty much all you need for a destination wedding in Las Vegas. Shop for a dress and accessories that scream "party" with eccentric style, crystal embellishments or feather details.

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2 1. ines di santo available at bergdorf goodman 2. jimmy choo available at jimmy choo 3. view of the strip from the four seasons hotel las vegas 4. paris by debra moreland available at mark ingram atelier 5. jimmy choo available at jimmy choo 6. angel sanchez available at kleinfeld 7. naeem khan available at mark ingram atelier

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FASHION REPORT

Beachfront A tropical setting in the Caribbean, Mexico or on the far shores of the Pacific is a super-fun wedding and vacation spot for the bride, groom and all of their guests.

Shopping for your multiple wedding-weekend looks can include everything from a long and flowing ceremony gown to a fun and flirty reception dress as well as a white bathing suit and chic coverup. Add a few sea-inspired accessories and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ready to hit the beach!

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1. musa available at bhldn 2. lela rose available at gabriella new york 3. grace bay club, turks & caicos 4. pallas couture available at mark ingram atelier 5.pilyq available at southbeachswimsuits.com 6.pilyq available at southbeachswimsuits.com 7. tommy bahama available at tommybahama.com

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DISCOVER THE BEST WEDDING VENUES AND VENDORS NEW YORK HAS TO OFFER

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TWIRLWEDDINGS.COM top row: roey yohai photography, mark ingram atelier, roey yohai photography center row: donna von bruening, dempsey & carroll, a guy + a girl photography bottom row: donna von bruening, sara wight photography, allan zepeda photography

real weddings

A French Fête

A FASHIONISTA MARRIES HER PRINCE CHARMING IN BRITTANY photos by xavier navarro SPRING 2016

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real weddings

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fter 11 years together there was no question Jennie and Dan would marry, but their decade-long courtship made creating a surprise proposal a little tricky.

Dan wanted to catch her off guard so he came up with an idea he knew she would never anticipate. "My favorite time with Jennie is right when we wake up in the morning, so that’s the moment I chose,” Dan tells Twirl New York.

While Jennie slept Dan got up in the middle of the night, cut out hundreds of photos of them together, and placed them around the bedroom walls and strung them from the ceiling. “He woke me up super early, and I'm not a morning person, so I was completely caught off guard,” Jennie remembers. As for the ring, Dan gave Jennie a cushion-cut diamond ring with a thin pave band from Kwiat.

When it came time to planning the wedding they decided they wanted to plan a destination wedding but weren't sure where it should be held. They scouted locations in China and France and finally settled on a European destination. "We loved visiting France over the years and have been back often," Jennie explains. "We fell in love with Brittany during one of our vacations where we rented a car and drove around the region. Since most of our friends and relatives have been to Paris we wanted to give them a reason to visit the beautiful French countryside.”

While exploring the region they came across Château du Grand Val in Combourg, Brittany and booked it for the ceremony and reception. "We went to visit so many places and this was the one that both Dan and I knew right away was for us," Jennie says. "We wanted something that felt comfortable, warm and inviting but also had the history and magic of an old French château."

Once they booked the venue, they hired Lauren Sozmen of Loli Events to help them with logistics and details. "Hiring Loli Events was the best decision we made. Neither of us speaks the language fluently so having planners in New York and Paris helping us was key,” Jennie says.

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“Dan and Jennie pictured a small countryside mansion with lots of charm and authenticity,” Lauren of Loli Events explains. “The mood for the wedding was organic and effortless, but very chic and full of great details. Nude colors were used to convey that natural feeling, and a mix of seasonal flowers, fruits, green touches, and organic materials such as the linen tablecloths, finished the look.”

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Jennie, a fashion editor, had a hard time picking just one, so she chose a few different styles and changed into each one over the course of the day. For the ceremony she wore a Reem Acra gown from Kleinfeld with a floral embroidered bodice and long flowing chiffon skirt. “It felt very appropriate for a French countryside wedding since it was soft and romantic but also a little risqué since the bodice was sheer,” she explains.

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Keeping her look simple, she had her bridal bouquet serve as her main accessory. Filled with lush garden roses in soft pink shades, fresh lavender and greenery, the bride says she is still in love with her bouquet. “It was both beautiful and fragrant.”

For the reception dinner she changed into a pink ombré strapless mermaid gown designed by Kelly Faetanini. “Kelly is one of my really good friends and is so talented.

I never thought I would wear a pink dress to my wedding but when I tried it on I just fell in love with it and decided right then and there that I wanted it!”

Before dancing began, Jennie slipped into a slinky design by Chanel. “I wanted a light dress that was easy to move in when the dancing started,” she explains. The low-cut V-neck dress had crystal and sequin bow-like embroidery around the neckline, a low back, and a high slit in the back of the skirt.

Unlike the bride, the groom didn’t have multiple outfit changes and went the more traditional route with a J. Lindeberg suit in an oatmeal color, a dark blue tie, and his late grandfather’s vintage watch.

The bridesmaids, their sisters, each chose a Dove-colored Amsale dress. “I like it when the looks are personalized and no two girls look the same,” she says. The three groomsmen each wore a grey suit with a dark solid color tie. “Our bridesmaids and groomsmen allwore shades of grey since it’s a neutral color.”

The flower girl, Jennie’s cousin, rounded out the small bridal party in a pale pinkcolored dress.

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To set the tone for the weekend, the couple mailed invitations calligraphed by Emily Snyder of Queen Quills, which added a romantic and handmade look and feel. They used the same handwriting for the escort cards, which doubled as the wedding favor. “Dan and I love jotting down notes and ideas and we always carry little notebooks around with us, so we wanted to share that with our guests.” Guests’ names were written on small notebooks and table numbers were tied to them with black twine, and displayed on an old wooden table with an arrangement of dahlias, roses, figs and berries.

The couple took advantage of the grounds surrounding the château. The wedding festivities kicked off with a welcome dinner the night before the wedding behind the house. The ceremony was held on a spot that overlooked the rolling hills of the French countryside, followed by a tented reception next to the château. The day after, the couple hosted a brunch on the grounds of the property too.

When it came time to plan the wedding ceremony, Jennie and Dan decided to plan a service that included elements from both their backgrounds: Christianity and Judaism. The priest who officiated read a passage from one of their favorite books, Jane Eyre. The service also included scripture from the Old Testament and concluded with the Jewish tradition of the breaking of the glass by the groom.

To tie-in the local setting, guests tossed lavender as the newlyweds lead the recessional after their first kiss. The ceremony was followed by cocktails on the château’s back lawn. Classic French songs played in the background while guests dined on hors d'oeuvres and sipped a selection of signature cocktails – Cucumber St. Germain, Negronis, Kirs and Old Fashioneds – served with colorful striped straws and golden pom poms.

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The reception tent, set off the back of the château, was decorated in a vintage, rustic style created by Flower Jugs. The long banquet tables were set with white linens dotted with lush centerpieces set in antique vessels. Each one was a different design and had a mix of blooms and berries to reflect the natural, relaxed setting.

The dinner menu was a mix of local and regional favorites. The first course, risotto with scallops, was followed by a choice of veal with foie gras or roasted cod with langoustine butter. Dessert was a buffet of choices for guests to choose from including macarons, croquembouche, crème brûlée, strawberry tarts, and mini chocolate bouchée. The wedding cake was a honey apple cake that Jennie and Dan picked because it's popular in the area. “We figured anyone can eat a chocolate cake any time, and we already had chocolate as a dessert, so we wanted to choose a cake which was a little more special,” Jennie explains. The simple two-tiered wedding cake with buttercream frosting was decorated with flowers that complemented the flowers used in the centerpieces.

To ensure that the reception was fun for all, Lauren and her team brought in sparklers and party props. “I think it adds to the fun of parties,” Jennie says. “We had hats, sparkly wigs, leis, glow in the dark necklaces and mustaches. We also provided flip-flops so people didn’t have an excuse not to dance.”

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Photography: Xavier Navarro / Venue: Ch창teau du Grand Val Wedding Planner: Loli Events / Florist: Flower Jugs / Officiant: Father Randall Gareth / Bridal Gown (Ceremony): Reem Acra from Kleinfeld / Bridal Gown (Reception): Kelly Faetanini from Gabriella New York / Bridal Gown (Dancing): Chanel / Hair and Makeup: Isabelle / Veil and Headpiece: Paris by Debra Moreland / Crystal Headpiece: Johanna Johnson / Bride's Shoes (Ceremony): Brian Atwood / Bride's Shoes (Reception): Jimmy Choo and Manolo Blahnik / Engagement Ring: Kwiat / Wedding Rings: Vered Mor / Earrings (Ceremony): Chanel / Earrings (Reception): Ranjana Kahn / Bridesmaid Dresses: Amsale / Groom's Attire: J. Lindeberg / Invitations, Escort Cards, Menus: Queen's Quills Tables, Chairs, Linens: SA Lomarec / Tent Rental: Lesage Structure Catering: Le Petits Curieux / DJ: Sonofactory / Dance Lessons: Wedding Dance Day / Cake: Yves et Beatriz Belliard Cake Design Transportation: Bellier Voyages / Accommodations: Ch창teau du Grand Val, Hotel du Chateau and Hotel du Lac

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A Marriage of Cultures

HOW ONE COUPLE BLENDED THEIR DIFFERENT BACKGROUNDS IN MEXICO

photos by heather waraksa SPRING 2016 2 016

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inda and Sam were introduced by mutual friends during their first year at Harvard Business School. After dating for four years, two and half of which were long distance, the couple went to the Bahamas for a long weekend and Sam surprised Linda with a romantic proposal on the balcony of their hotel room overlooking the ocean, followed by dinner on the beach.

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The couple decided that they would plan a destination wedding in Mexico at the NIZUC Resort in Riviera Maya, and enlisted the support and creative team of Brooklyn-based AaB Creates. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think, because Sam and Linda were from two different ethnic backgrounds, we wanted to utilize the Indian aesthetic where it most logically tied in, while still giving us an oppor-

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tunity to celebrate our location, Mexico, as well as Linda's personal style,” explains AaB Creates’ Creative Director, Xochitl Gonzalez.

"We benefited from the multiple days of events, as it gave us a chance to have a range of styles and feelings instead of just having to settle on one."

Each event had a different theme. The celebration started with a modern Mexican

welcome party, followed by a traditional Indian-inspired Mendhi and ceremony. “The wedding dinner and reception were inspired by a kind of natural glamour that fit the setting,” Linda remembers. “I give our planners all the credit. We discussed general motifs and provided them with mood boards for each event, and they executed everything brilliantly!”

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Guests arrived for the weekend on a Thursday and kicked off the festivities with a welcome party at one of the resort’s pools, which has a large deck that overlooks the Caribbean Sea. The color palette was a mix of primary colors and white.

While guests had Friday to relax and lounge by the pool, that night a second event was planned as a less formal party but with speeches and multiple dance performances performed by friends of the bride and groom. “Sam and I had arranged for our friends to learn choreo-

graphed Indian dances before the wedding. The guys and the girls performed separately and each learned a dance," Linda tells Twirl New York. “It was such a hoot to see them go on a stage and go all out. Sam and I also learned an Indian dance that we performed for our friends.

It was a lot of fun.”

Above all, the couple wanted their wedding to have a casual, vacation-like feel, so AaB Creates infused Mexican decor, a jewel toned palette and entertainment that included a live mariachi band and a fire dance performance.

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For the Mehndi, the pre-wedding event where the ceremonial art form was performed, the bride and her close family and friends were able to relax together before joining the rest of the wedding party and guests on the beach.

According to Linda, the Bharat, the procession from the groom's side, was super-festive, energetic and fun, and at the end of it, the groom's family and the bride's came together before they headed into the Sikh wedding ceremony, which is called the Anand Karaj, meaning Blissful Union.

“One of the most important features,” Linda shared, “is that marriage is a partnership of

equals, which really attracted me toward the ceremony.”

With a varied color palette of reds and gold for the ceremony and pale pinks and gold for the reception, NIZUC proved to be the perfect place for all of the wedding celebrations. “The resort has multiple locations that enabled us to make the weekend have different feelings while still staying on one property,” Xochitl says. As far as her favorite decor aspect of the wedding, she notes the "floating" chandeliers used for the wedding dinner. “They created a dreamy feeling to what would normally be a pool terrace.”

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"We chose a bright and festive color palette while maintaining a modern and elegant look." – Linda

After a successfully festive and fun wedding weekend, there were no regrets except for wishing the whole thing could have lasted longer. “Someone told me to appreciate moments from throughout the wedding day, and it was the best advice ever,” Linda shared.

“The weekend happened in a flash and I was glad for those quiet moments when I savored and appreciated just how special it was.”

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Photography: Heather Waraksa / Venue: NIZUC Resort & Spa / Planning & Design: Resort

AaB &

Creates

Spa

/

/

Florist:

Canteiro

Videographer:

Mike

Weddings

Cantarell

Fil

/ /

Caterer:

NIZUC

Bridal

Gown:

J. Crew / Bride's Shoes: Manolo Blahnik / Hair & Makeup: Alexandre Corbanezi / DJ: DJ NVM / Invitations: Paperless Post / Rentals: Canteiro Weddings Specialty Linens: BBJ Linen / Transportation: Mayan Hospitality / Mariachi Band

&

Fire

Dancers:

Visuddha

Entertainment

/

Mendhi:

Veronica

de la Paz / Paper Goods & Accessories: Wedding Paper Divas, Contagious Events Photo Booth: La Cabina Photo Booth

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Bellissima

A MAGICAL WEDDING IN LAKE COMO photos by shawn connell for christian oth studio SPRING 2016 2 016

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M

elisa and Chris met when they were both seeing other people, so they were friends first. While the relationship might have taken some time to get started, once it did, things moved along quickly. "I wanted to propose two months into dating,” Chris tells Twirl New York, “but I didn't want her parents to think I was insane, so I waited what I felt was a respectable amount of time before I asked for their blessing." A little over a year later, during a romantic weekend in upstate New York, Chris proposed.

The newly-engaged couple decided for their wedding it was more important to pick quality

time with a limited number of guests over a large party, and felt that a destination wedding would be the best option.

As for the destination, the choice was easy: Italy. They had both studied abroad and vacationed in various Italian cities over the years, and when Melisa saw pictures of a wedding at a villa she had admired from afar, Villa del Balbianello, she knew it was the place they should wed.

“From that moment on it was always in the back of my head as a place I would love to get married,” she explains.

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"Lake Como is such a magical, peaceful, beautiful place." – Melisa

They compiled a guest list of 100 of their closest relatives and friends to join them for a few days in the Italian countryside. “The wedding became big enough to be a fun party but small enough to really spend quality time with everyone,” she adds.

Melisa chose a classic lace strapless gown by Monique Lhuiller. With the help of her sisterin-law who worked at Vogue, she had the very unique experience of flying with her to Los Angeles for a personal fitting with the bridal designer, Monique, herself. Along with a Monique Lhuillier veil, Melisa wore a crystal and rhinestone hair comb borrowed from a friend.

The bridesmaids wore navy blue chiffon dresses

by Amsale, and her two best guy friends, who were bridesmen, looked handsome in classic tuxedos. In selecting the bridesmaids’ hue, Melisa thought the dark blue coordinated best with the setting, as it tied together the blue of the lake and the blue hydrangeas they carried in their bouquets.

After getting ready at Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, the bride, her bridesmaids and father took a short boat ride to the ceremony. Carrying a classic white bouquet of roses, hydrangeas and lilies, Melisa was escorted down the aisle by her dad as a string quartet played Pachelbel’s Canon.

The bride’s mother’s cousin, a Christian minister, officiated the ceremony, which was held under a beautiful floral arch decorated with white, pink and peach roses, hydrangeas, greenery and branches, which enhanced the venue’s rustic yet elegant setting. The natural beauty of the villa and its surroundings made it unnecessary to do a lot of decorating at the ceremony site.

“Very little needed to be done as it was a stunning space with amazing ivy winding around the villa's structures,” Melisa recalls.

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Simple elegance was the underlying theme of the wedding’s decor, and Melisa and Chris let the outstanding setting speak for itself.

Daughter of Design’s Annie Lee helped pull off their cream, white and gold affair that was equally timeless and chic. The villa, lake and breathtaking views served as a glorious backdrop, and the couple purposely chose a clear tent so guests could take in the natural beauty of the surroundings. “I didn't want to detract from the beautiful setting,” Melisa adds.

For dinner, two long banquet tables were adorned with low vases of white hydrangeas or roses and lit with a mix of white votive candles and taller white candles set on gold candlesticks.

“By using one neutral color like ivory we simplified the aesthetic, and using cleaner lines in design and floral decor gave the overall wedding a more contemporary look,” explains Annie Lee. “We used very minimal greens in the centerpieces to keep it more formal and buttoned up.”

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"Lake Como is such a nostalgic and elegant Italian lakeside town that we kept the decor authentic to the location." â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Annie Lee

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A local DJ played a mix of Top 40 hits that kept the party going well into the night, but it was the groom who made an unforgettable speech that, as the bride says, brought the house down.

"The groom’s speech was incredible, one of the best I’ve ever heard,” recalls their wedding planner, Annie Lee. Keeping with tradition, during the reception the couple cut a four-tiered weddingcake decorated with white flowers and petals.

At the end of the night the guests headed back to their hotel, leaving the newlyweds alone to follow in a private boat of their own. “All the guests left first, and then a small boat came to get Chris and I,” shares Melisa.

“When we arrived back at the dock in Bellagio at Villa Serbelloni, all of our friends and family were waiting there for us with sparklers in hand to greet us as we walked off the boat.

"I loved planning our wedding and still look back on it as one of the happiest moments in our lives.”

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Photography:

Shawn

Connell

for Christian Oth Studio / Venue: Villa del Balbianello / Wedding Planner: Daughter of Design Bridal Gown & Veil Designer: Monique Lhuillier / Bridesmaid Dresses: Amsale / Bridesmaid Dress Salon: Claudia Hanlin's Wedding Library / Invitations and Menu Printing: Patricia Ducharme / Calligraphy: Anne Robin

/

Local

Sposiamovi

/

Coordinator: Videography:

Cinevent Productions / Hair: Liam Carey /

Bride's Shoes:

Jimmy Choo / Groom's and Groomsmen's Attire: Domenico Vacca / Accommodations: Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni

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LAUNCH TWIRL WEDDINGS IN YOUR CITY

photo by roey yohai photography

WANT TO TWIRL WITH US? START A TWIRL WEDDINGS FRANCHISE IN YOUR CITY. EMAIL US FOR AN APPLICATION!

<favorite things>

in-flight travel musts INTERNATIONAL FREQUENT FLYER, THE HONEYMOONIST, SHARES HER VACATION ESSENTIALS

sunscreen

I'm frequently in beach locales, and with my Irish ancestry, sun protection is a must. This is my favorite beauty product in the world; just brush it on for full SPF 30 protection. It's so light you can't see it or feel it, and it's TSAready powder so you can carry it anywhere. Eminence Organics Sun Defense mineral sunscreen, $58, eminenstore.com

Susan Moynihan, a/k/a The Honeymoonist, knows a thing or two about luxury travel. An experienced bridal and travel writer, Susan has criss-crossed the globe more times than we can count. As the ultimate resource for discovering the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top spots for destination weddings and honeymoons, we asked her to share her favorite travel items. Whatever your destination, make sure you have these in your carry on!

PHOTO BY LAURA GRIER

charger

Between social media, GPS and website searches, I burn through my iPhone when I travel. So a back-up charger is a must. This one from Kate Spade is super cute and super thin--both winning attributes in my eyes.

Kate Spade New York 'Micro Check' Ultra Thin Charger, $60, nordstrom.com

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headphones

Long flights are a perfect time to cozy up and from crying babies to chatterbox seatmates, travel can be noisy.

I find actual headphones too bulky for my taste, so these are a perfect solution. And the nifty remote lets you skip through songs with a pinch, so you don't have to look at your device's screen. SoundTrueÂŽ Ultra in-ear headphones, $150, bose.com

headphone splitter

Are you planning on catching up on movies and TV shows during the flight? Use a headphone splitter so you can plug into the same one.

This Branch earphone splitter from the Museum of Modern Art store is as smart as it is practical. Branch headphone splitter, $10, momastore.org

travel pillow

My favorite travel pillow was a gift: It's 8 years old, a little threadbare and I've never been able to find another like it. When it finally dies, I'll replace it with this style by Cabeau, which gets stellar reviews and has a pocket for your iPhone--rather ingenious. Evolution Pillow, $40, cabeau.com

sleep mask travel wrap

I love a good travel wrap: It makes a great blanket or pillow, and as a wrap can dress up any outfit from shorts to a little black dress. White & Warren set the standard with their oversized wrap in a slew of colors, including three takes on heather grey.

Cashmere Travel Wrap, $298, whiteandwarren.com

Sleeping on planes is key to my career, as is sleeping in unfamiliar hotels without great curtains. This mask is a tad larger than the usual, so light doesn't creep in if you move your head. Elizabeth W Poppy Sleep Mask, $25, elizabethw.com

messenger bag

I'm on a constant quest for the perfect in-flight carry-on. This sturdy messenger bag is both sexy and practical, with a faux-fur-padded phone pocket and ample space for my laptop and accessories. A sustainable business ethos and lifetime warranty from the San Francisco-based company ups the fab factor. FEMME Messenger, $398, timbuk2.com

balm

I travel light so I love products that can multi-task. This all-natural balm (made with rosehip, echinacea and pawpaw) works on chapped lips, dry cuticles, flyaway split ends -- whatever you need. And it's a balm, not a liquidy cream, so I don't have to worry about it spilling all over my purse.

Everything Balm, $21, trilogyproducts.com

travel wallet

There are loads of travel wallets out there, but I like this one because it's big enough for multiple passports and boarding passes, and zips so nothing will inadvertently fall out in your bag. And it comes from one of my favorite instagrammers, @thecoolhunter. Zip Around Travel Wallet, $229, shop.thecoolhunter.net

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photo by craig paulson photography

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