Brides Abroad

BRIDES ABROAD Summer 2012

130

WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS

16

Awe-Inspiring Honeymoons

PAGE

MEXICO

Languedoc, Vietnam, Bali, Fiji, Muscat, Barbados, Egypt & more

SPECIAL

sun-drenched beaches, pyramids & real weddings

Be a Beach Bride!

KELLY

IN BALI

• Indulged in a jungle spa • Pampered on a beach

Just the two of us!

Essential tips for telling your folks they’re not invited!

32

WIN A Stunning Designer Wedding Gown

PAGE

Tropical Sky

wedding and honeymoon guide

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Majorca, Tenerife, Grenada, Maldives, Sri Lanka and more www.BridesAbroad.tv

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Welcome

Credits Published by

Joint Venture Media Kilndene Studios Kirk Deighton LS22 4EA Tel: 01937 58 48 92

Publisher

Martin Cody-Owen martin@jointventuremedia.tv

Editor-in-Chief

Terri Cody-Owen terri@spaworldmagazine.com

Assistant Editor Victoria Ballantyne

Congratulations

Congratulations!

Now you’re engaged you’ve taken the first steps on the long road to happiness with the one you love!

There is no better way to start married life than with a stress-free wedding. But it’s often easier said than done. That’s where the Brides Abroad team can help. We offer useful tips on perfect planning and hundreds of inspirational ideas for a dream wedding and unforgettable honeymoon.

If your dream is to marry on a sun-drenched Caribbean island, or high above the sparkling Aegean Sea on a Greek Island, then don’t settle for second best. Go for it and have the wedding of your dreams! And if you are worried about breaking the news to friends and family, especially if you have chosen an intimate wedding with just the two of you – then read our tips on explaining this to your loved ones (p.78) However, weddings abroad are fun for everyone, so invite your guests to join you on a ‘wedding holiday’ and you’ll soon see how excited they become as they build their travel plans around your celebration! Then, after a few days, simply wave them off and enjoy some quality time in the company of your beloved!

If your wondering where to go, we follow couples on destination weddings and honeymoons of a lifetime in far-flung destinations including Mexico, Thailand, Southeast Asia, Fiji and Bali as well as closer to home, including the Languedoc in romantic Southern France, stylish Italy and magical Marrakech.

For helpful and knowledgeable advice, ring our expert wedding and honeymoon planning team on 01937 584892 – they can help you put your itinerary together and specialise in group bookings – saving money on flights and accommodation and holding your hand every step of the way!

See our special honeymoon deals (page 103), which could save you thousands on romantic breaks from the Maldives to the Mediterranean!

What ever you do relax, let the wedding co-ordinators do all the hard work and enjoy the start of your long and happy life together in your own fabulous style.

Best of luck!

Terri Cody-Owen Editor

Assistant to Publisher

Patsy Owen

Contributors James Earl Lorraine Kelly Colette Harris Melissa Schwier Lisa Burton Alan Benstock

Photography

Dreamstime istockphoto Virginie Lacoste Laurent Alamagny, Samui Vision Paul Toeman Photography Daniel Aguilar Sascha Gluck Andreas Holm

Design

Chris Peach Centrical Solutions www.centricalsolutions.com

Printer

Stones the Printers www.stonestheprinters.co.uk

Advertising Sales

Joint Venture Media Sylvia Oakley 07779 782832 sylvia@spaworldmagazine.com

Pelusa 020 8406 0820 Mike Murray mike@pelusa.co.uk Ben David ben@pelusa.co.uk

Cover

terri@spaworldmagazine.com

Photograph: Virginie Lacoste Location: Grand Mauritian Resort, Mauritius

www.BridesAbroad.tv ©Joint Venture Media. All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights are reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in Brides Abroad magazine do not necessarily represent the views of Joint Venture Media. Every care is taken in compiling the contents but the publisher of Brides Abroad magazine assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from participation in any offer, competition or advertisement contained within Brides Abroad magazine.

For advertising and sponsorship call: Martin Cody-Owen on 01937 58 48 92 or email martin@jointventuremedia.tv

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Contents 44

In this issue 28

Wedding & honeymoon news

66

Win a gorgeous wedding dress!

Hot news and ideas for weddings and honeymoons

REAL WEDDINGS

10

In the pink in Morocco

38

A Mayan marriage

Clare and Richard’s fabulous garden ceremony in Marrakech

It’s a floral beach ceremony for Carrie and Mike in the Mayan Riviera

44

Celebrations in Cancun

When Sally and Vincent married in Cancun it was a great excuse for a party!

50

Butterflies and bling

The romance of Italy is blended with glamour at Claire and Ben’s Italian wedding

56

Thai the knot

Traci and David’s barefoot beach wedding

WEDDING DESTINATIONS

28 56

Greek chic

We discover one of Halkidiki’s hidden gems!

10

Magnificent Mexico

Lapped by the Caribbean, yet with a ‘chilled’ Latin American vibe

62 64

Love Cyprus

Sunshine, splendid beaches and romance – and so close to home!

Vows afloat

Marry on a rock climbing wall on a cruise ship – or simply at sea. Your choice!

82

SUBSCRIBE Six issues FOR ONLY £18.00 Worth £23.94 inc FREE P&P

www.BridesAbroad.tv/subrcibe

66 CompetitioN WIN A GORGEOUS WEDDING GOWN DON’T MISS OUT www.BridesAbroad.tv 7

94

PLANNING

68 72

Weather permitting

Your worldwide weather guide

Wedding countdown

Month-by-month planning for your wedding abroad

74

Pop the question

Your questions answered by expert wedding planners

76

Ask the experts

Tips and advice from Lisa Burton of the Bridal Consultancy

77

Honeymoon health

Stay healthy during your destination wedding and honeymoon

78

Just the two of us

How to break it to family and friends that they are not invited

HONEYMOONS

84

From Southeast Asia with love

90

Fabulous Fiji

International travel writer James Earl shares his exciting honeymoon adventure

James and Melissa’s honeymoon in south seas paradise

94

Lorraine Kelly in Bali

84

90

Our favourite TV presenter takes a romantic break in Bali with husband Steve

99

Don’t leave without…

We reveal your ‘must have’ wardrobe essentials for a beach honeymoon

100 Enchanting France

Discover Provence and Languedoc – the romantic side of Southern France

103 Special Offers!

Save £10,000 on honeymoons in the world’s most romantic destinations!

Plus!

32-page special

56

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100

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RealWEDDINGS

In the pink in

Morocco

Clare and Richard marry in the gorgeous gardens of Marrakech

10 wwwBridesAbroad.tv

W

hen Clare Blackler and Richard Clarke from Raynes Park, London decided to tie the knot, they chose a small but beautiful ceremony amidst colourful blooms and exotic bird cages in the mature gardens of a French art and antiques collector in the Palmaraoe (palm grove) of Marrakech. The couple’s fuchsia pink wedding theme perfectly reflected the pink bougainvillaea in the villa’s exquisite grounds.

Finding ‘the one’ “We met in 2004 when we both joined a graduate scheme. We very quickly became close friends and soon realised our friendship was growing into something more.

The proposal He finally popped the question in the Botanical G ardens in Christchurch, New Zealand. On the last day of a trip travelling to New Zealand’s South Island, it was tipping down with rain as we walked around the Botanical Gardens. As we took shelter under a tree overlooking the rose garden, Rich suddenly went down on one knee! Springing it on the last day caught

me completely unawares, but it was a lovely end to what had been a fantastic holiday. I’m amazed he managed to keep the ring hidden and safe, given that we’d spent the whole time in an old camper van!

Location location Travel has been a strong element of our relationship together – we are forever researching and planning our next trip.

Neither of us had found the idea of appearing in a traditional white wedding particularly ‘us’, but a holiday – that was something we could do! The thought of creating a weekend where people could celebrate with us but also create their own memories was really appealing to us both too. We’d spent three weeks travelling around Morocco in 2008 and completely fell in love with it. Marrakech, in particular, is very accessbile, affordable and vibrant and we felt it really represented the best of our times togther. Add in the guaranteed sunshine, the uniquely glamourous setting and attractive costs compared to the UK and it had to be Marrakech. As very few of our family and friends had been, it also offered us the chance to give our guests new experiences, something we focused on during the planning. www.BridesAbroad.tv 11

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The planning We really fell on our feet by finding wedding planners, Boutique Souk, early on. We built a rapport with Rosena and Fred very quickly and knew we were in good hands.

Their local knowledge and connections, together with their attention to detail and commitment made for stress-free planning.

More importantly, they were completely receptive to our ideas, meaning the weekend was still highly personal. We’d done some research online before meeting with Rosena and Fred. We spent a weekend with them in August 2010, scoping venues and exploring initial thoughts. We had to time ‘the date’ around local factors such as the heat and Ramadan, and also wanted to give our guests plenty of notice. Having decided on Sept 2011, we returned once more in February to make the big decisions – food, wine, entertainment, décor. From then on, Rosena and I were in contact by email and skype. The planning was exactly what I had hoped – straightforward, stress-free and an exciting prelude to the wedding weekend.

The guests We took 50 guests. Our immediate family stayed with us in Dar Ayniwen, which we booked out for exclusive use for three days.

Our other guests were all over the city.

Marrakech is fanastic as it has an array of accommodation choices to suit all tastes and budgets. We provided some advice and details, then left them to decide. We

were pleasantly surprised that most people accepted. I think it helped that we provided plenty of notice and information.

We used our invitations as an opportunity to win people over and get them fired up about the city. We brought leather wallets in the Souks and included in them a guide book and destination notes, as well as beautiful invitations from www.hummingbirdcards.co.uk

Getting the look I had no idea what type of dress I wanted but the team at The Dress in Teddington (www.thedress.co.uk) were fantastic at interpreting my muddled words into a shortlist. I chose Suzanne Neville’s Fortuniana. I’m also very fortunate that my cousin’s wife makes customised jewellery through her company www.wowtiaras.com.

I provided her with some basic thoughts and was blown away with the designs she came back with. The end results were beautiful and really added to the Moroccan theme. Rosena suggested a local hairdresser who was fantastic. I did my own makeup. My something old, something new? Old – jewels in a hairclip; New – dress; Borrowed – hairdresser’s hairclips; Blue – jewellery. Richard wore a Ted Baker suit, and I chose not to have bridesmaids.

The details The Morrocan theme prevailed through bright pinks, teals and golds. Dar Ayniwen

has a collection of exotic birds within the grounds, so this was also incorporated in the invitations and décor. I had a bouquet with pink and white roses – had we chosen the same in the UK, we would have had to prepare a much larger budget!

The big build up We had a Friday night reception to welcome friends and family in the famous Djeema el Fna square, followed by horses and carriages to Le Comptoir and, the next day, a morning game of golf for the men and sunbathing and spa treatments for the girls.

The ceremony We married in a late afternoon ceremony, which took place in the Dar Ayniwen’s garden pavilion, amidst pink bougainvillaea and exotic birdcages. Following a path of fuchsia rose petals through the gardens, our guests were led to a fountain patio for mint tea before being seated in the garden pavilion for the ceremony. It looked beautiful as fuchsia curtains billowed in the afternoon breeze between the pavilion columns.

Moroccan lanterns and rose petals lined the aisle and two gorgeous bouquets of fuchsia Atlas roses framed us as we exchanged vows in a ceremony, which lasted around 20 minutes. We were married by a local celebrant, Sandra, who set the perfect tone and my father gave me away.

www.BridesAbroad.tv 13

The reception Following the ceremony, our guests enjoyed champagne and canapés in the olive grove at sunset on Moroccan rugs, poofs and cushions. Before being seated for dinner, we surprised them with a performance of local ‘Gnawan’ musicians and acrobats, which soon had everyone participating playing instruments, dancing and singing. Most of the guests dressed in the Gnawa costumes and hats and at one point we even had two conga lines travelling around the pool, with girls competing against guys – everyone loved them!

For the meal, we had one long table running along the side of the swimming pool, which was lit up with lanterns. It looked absolutely stunning with gold chairs, candelabras and bird cages. We wanted our guests to have a Moroccan culinary experience but were also mindful of not wanting to send them home sick of tagines! Our sit-down meal started with our guests sharing a mezze of salads followed by a BBQ, which was inspired by the stalls in the Marrakech’s famous Djeema el Fna square. We served lamb cutlets, spicy sausages, monk fish

14 wwwBridesAbroad.tv

and kebabs with cous cous and traditional baked potatoes and salads, followed by a French Strawberry Fraisier dessert. Our wedding cake was a macaroon tower.

In between our main course and the dessert, we surprised our guests with fire eaters. Then, after dinner, everyone hit the dancefloor, laid on by an excellent local DJ. Our First Dance was ‘Your love gets sweeter’ by Finlay Quaye. As the music was coming to an end around 4am, our younger guests ended up in the pool before heading to a large tent on the side of the property for some chillout time and a bit of Wii.

Photographic memories Andreas Holm took the photographs. He joined us for the Friday evening and then the day itself. He produced an amazing set of images – I love the fact he captured the whole story rather than one in particular.

Magic moments The weekend was littered with amazing memories, from watching the men giggle

at the belly dancers on the Friday night to the speeches and then everyone ending up in the pool. The Gnawans were a turning point and really made us all laugh seeing people’s faces as they were intially being dragged up to participate.

Because it was abroad, our guests left with amazing memories too. Hearing all their independent travel stories really added to the whole experience for us.

The honeymoon At the end of our fabulous wedding celebrations, we moved on to Borneo and Singapore for our honeymoon, just the two of us!”

Further information Wedding planner: www.boutiquesouk.com Venue: Dar Ayniwen, Marrakech www.dar-ayniwen.com Photographer: Andreas Holm www.andreasholm.com

Steal Clare’s Style

Rose headpiece by Ivory & Co, £120 www.crystalfrost.co.uk

Drop earrings, £75 www.accessorize.co.uk

Blending pure ivory with the exotic colours of Morocco, Clare has created the traditional charm of Marrakech with more than a hint of glamour.

Cream clutch, £45 www.accessorize.co.uk

Santorini ring, £14 www.accessorize.co.uk

Madison hairpiece by Ivory & Co, £105 www.crystalfrost.co.uk

White Moroccan lamp, £9.95 www.dotcomgifts.com

Pink and cream rose silk flower bouquet www.sarahsflowers.co.uk

Aviery garden birdcage lamp, £13.95 www.dotcomgifts.com

Sandals by Aspiga, £69 Dress by Romantica Style: Tierney www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk

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Flower Swing of love Indulge in romance on your honeymoon and snuggleup on a flower-decorated swing on your private veranda to while away those precious moments together in Sri Lanka – it is the ultimate in luxury. The floral swing is offered complimentary to honeymooners who book an Ocean Suite for seven nights at Reef Villa and Spa. Reef is a luxurious boutique hotel set in three acres of exotic tropical gardens with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, with palm-fringed pavilions and reflection pools that create the romance and grandeur of Sri Lanka. The hotel enjoys a vast, sandy beachfront, all-weather tennis court, large swimming pool, tranquil lily ponds, gourmet kitchens and the sanctuary of the Reefresh Spa.

Book it!

Prices start from £275 per night. www.reefvilla.com

BRIDES ABROADNEWS Be inspired, informed and amazed by the latest news on overseas weddings & honeymoons

Desert Stargazing & Sailing in Oman

If you are looking for a honeymoon with a difference, then discover the contrasting scenery of Oman’s Wahiba Sands, Hajar Mountains and Muscat’s dramatic coastline on a new camping and private yachting adventure with luxury honeymoon specialists, Scott Dunn. The itinerary begins with a night spent in the desert at the Wahiba Sands luxury tented camp with a chance to swim in the clear waters of the wadi and watch the setting sun and night sky from the luxurious candlelit tent. The next night, the newlyweds stay at the Tanuf mountain camp in the Hajar mountains with its stunning views towards Oman’s highest peak. The next day, the couple set sail on their very own private yacht, dropping anchor at uninhabited islands with white sandy beaches where they can snorkel on colourful reefs with tropical fish, rays and even turtles. The itinerary concludes at Shangri-La Barr al Jissah Resort and Spa for three final nights of luxury.

Book it!

Scott Dunn are offering this seven-night itinerary, including one night at the Chedi Muscat on arrival, from £4,820 per person including Oman Air flights and transfers. www.scottdunn.com 18 wwwBridesAbroad.tv

Say ‘I do’ on the Garden Route

If you thought you couldn’t afford to marry in South Africa, think again.

The award-winning Kurland Hotel, Plettenberg Bay, in the heart of South Africa’s Garden Route, has introduced a new and affordable selection of bespoke wedding packages for couples looking for a truly special wedding abroad. The pristine 1700-acre Kurland estate provides an exquisite setting for wedding celebrations for up to 200 guests, and offers an array of facilities and activities to keep guests of all ages entertained throughout their stay.

Book it!

Kurland offers a fantastic three-night value celebration package, which starts from £4,500 for 12 people and includes accommodation, two dinners and wedding breakfast for the wedding couple and a party of 10 guests; spa treatments, a picnic lunch and romantic dinner for the bride and groom, plus many extras. www.kurland.co.za

Honeymoon detox Make your honeymoon a healthy experience in an exotic setting with a detoxing spa break in the lush surroundings of Tao Garden, an awardwinning Health Spa & Resort in Chiang Main, Northern Thailand. Tao Garden offers Eastern holistic healing systems and ancient rituals including Taoist, Ayurveda, Acupuncture and Chinese medicine and Western spa treatments to detox, relax and renuvenate you at the start of your married life together.

You will also experience the Seven Taoist Secrets of Longevity: organic diet; exercise; meditation; positive thinking; detoxing; internal cleansing and herbal supplements to bring you optimum health and life balance.

Book it!

Tao Garden’s special five-day Burnout Detox Package includes a variety of heavenly spa treatments and rituals.

Save 20 per cent on accommodation and 15 per cent off spa treatments until June 2013. To redeem, email tong@taogarden.com and quote Brides Abroad magazine. www.tao-garden.com

www.BridesAbroad.tv 19

Romance in a gypsy caravan One of Provence’s most beautiful boutique hotels, La Bastide de Marie, is offering honeymooners the ultimate romantic night of bohemian chic staying in the ‘Roulotte’ - a luxuriously romantic gypsy-style caravan in the hotel’s vineyard – which has been specially crafted in wood to give a feel of a woodland setting. The gorgous gypsy caraven has a glossy wooden floor, lavish colourful furnishings and quaint washroom.

La Bastide de Marie is set in a stunning location in the South of France and offers luxury accommodation in 14 guest rooms and suites with two restaurants and tasting vault, plus its Pure Altitude Spa.

Book it!

The hotel offers an unforgettable night in the Roulotte with moonlit dinner, with the floor sprinkled with rose petals and two glasses of Champagne on arrival for £240 per person. www.labastidedemarie.com

Silent Movie legend sets the scene!

Follow in Charlie Chaplin’s famous footsteps and marry at the hotel where the newly-wedded Hollywood legend and star of the silent movies spent his honeymoon. The Sofitel Legend Metropole, Hanoi, one of Vietnam’s most celebrated landmarks, is launching new wedding packages showcasing the 110-year-old hotel’s distinctive blend of French savoirfaire and Vietnamese tradition, offering a range of wedding options including the services of a personal wedding planner, a choice of venue and a French or Vietnamese menu for your reception. The use of the hotel’s classic Citroën, a jazz band, spa vouchers and other extras can also be incorporated into the various packages.

Book it!

The hotel offers bespoke weddings and a luxurious honeymoon package that includes a two nights’ stay and many treats for the couple, plus a special rate for an extended stay. www.sofitel.com/hanoi

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Diamond bliss in Barbados Celebrities including Simon Cowell and Rihanna flock to Barbados to enjoy the magic of this glamorous Caribbean island.

Now you too can honeymoon like a star at the Coral Reef Club, a much-loved family owned resort, which has created a Diamond Package to celebrate the hotel’s 60th anniversary. The seven-night package is ideal for honeymooners and includes seven nights’ half board in a garden room or cottage with Champagne and flowers on arrival and an anti-ageing Natura Bissé Diamond Magnetic Ritual for two (90 minutes) in the garden of the stunning Coral Reef Club Spa. The Spa will make you feel like millionaires as it magnetises positive energy, reduces stress and beautifies the skin with the renowned Diamond Cream. The package also includes an invitation to the owners’ cocktail party, complimentary watersports and professional tennis coaching.

Book it!

Prices start from £1455 per person based on two people sharing, including airport transfers. www.coralreefbarbados.com

Egyptian magic Look to the land of the Pharaohs for an unforgettably romantic sunshine honeymoon with a stay at the beautiful Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay. This stunning Red Sea resort overlooks dramatic mountain ranges, aquamarine waters and has an extensive private sandy beach making it the idyllic wedding and honeymoon location. The resort’s expert wedding co-ordinators tailor-make wedding and honeymoon packages and are on hand every step of the way to ensure that each wedding and honeymoon is bespoke and unique, according to budget and individual requirements. From intimate beachfront ceremonies to lavish poolside banquets, the hotel offers affordable luxury and a variety of romantic settings. After their wedding, newlyweds can book a Romance Honeymoon Package and unwind together in the sunshine, indulging in spa treatments at the Thalassotherapy Spa and taking diving, snorkelling or even Arabic cooking lessons.

Book it!

www.kempinski.com/somabay

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Child-free luxury in Tobago Children are wonderful company, but many couples prefer their wedding and honeymoons to be child-free zones. Le Grand Courlan Spa Resort in Tobago is an adult-only resort tucked away on Tobago’s Great Courland Bay, which is the perfect, sophisticated venue for both weddings and honeymoons.

Tobago is an unspoilt Caribbean island which has won several awards for eco-tourism with its beautiful rain forest, stunning beaches, fresh local cuisine and colourful coral reef, ideal for diving. Le Grand Courlan’s wedding coordinator will create the perfect bespoke wedding package for you, allowing you to relax and enjoy a stress-free stay from start to finish.

Book it!

The wedding package costs £637 and includes wedding planner, marriage licence and certificate, a candlelit dinner for two, wedding cake, bouquet and boutonniére, registrar and legal fees, one bottle of sparkling wine and decorated wedding arch. www.legrandtobago.com

Marry in millionaire’s Marbella It’s official! More couples are going abroad to tie the knot than ever before. Weddings abroad can cost less than a third of the price of a wedding in the UK, so it’s not surprising that overseas ceremonies are becoming so popular. With the average wedding in the UK costing just under £20,000, you may be surprised to learn that you can marry in glitzy Marbella in southern Spain for less than half that price. You can hire a luxury ‘millionaire’s’ villa in Marbella for the whole affair for a snip of the cost of a UK wedding. The DSV Collection in Marbella offers three stunning £7 million villas with views over the sea, mountains and Los Flamingos golf course, which should keep any groom happy! The villas can accommodate up to 150 guests for dinner and dancing. With stunning interiors, grounds and views, the properties provide an impressive backdrop to wow your guests.

Book it!

Book online: www.dsvcollection.com.

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Escape to the Great Barrier Reef A stunning wedding and honeymoon destination has just reopened its doors after a recent refurbishment to offer luxury and tranquility at the heart of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef – one of the world’s natural wonders. Orpheus Island is an idyllic island getaway, offering romantic weddings, dream honeymoons and the ultimate in tropical escapism – whether you’re looking for an activity packed retreat or intimate seclusion. The tranquil island has 11 kilometres of immaculate turquoise coastline, with a pristine National Park and World Heritagelisted Marine Park, which is ideal for diving and snorkelling. The boutique hotel, which nestles in the sheltered Hazard Bay along a beautiful sandy beach, has accommodation for just 34 guests and can also be hired privately for wedding parties. For a honeymoon treat, couples can ‘Dine with the Tides’ and enjoy a romantic dinner for two on the pier under a starlit canopy.

Book it!

Prices start from £865 (twin-share) per night. www.orpheus.com.au

Pets go too!

If you can’t bear to leave your beloved pets at home when you go on honeymoon, take them with you!

Travelling to the Continent by ferry with pets has become even easier as you are no longer required to subject your dog, cat or even pet ferret to a blood test or tick treatment when you return to the UK. Now all you need is a pet passport (a document issued by a government-authorised vet that exempts your animal from quarantine). Most vets can do this, which simply involves a blood test, rabies vaccine and identifying your pet with a microchip. Travelling on-board with a pet couldn’t be easier. Depending on the crossing – domestic or international – dogs and cats can travel on-deck, in the car or even in a special cabin and many opaerators will even carry pets in cars free of charge. Details can be found about the PETS scheme regulations by visiting: www. discoverferries.com.

Safe and Sound with Lifelock

Don’t let the threat of your hotel room being broken into and your property stolen spoil your blissful honeymoon, especially if you are visiting less well-known places. Even locking a hotel door from the inside and putting on the security chain will not deter the professional thief. Now you can enjoy peace of mind with LifeLock, a simple-to-use portable locking device already being used by business travellers including the Ministry of Defence and the Foreign Office staff.

Travellers can sleep safely, secure in the knowledge that their room can not be entered, even with a master key. LifeLock is simply fitted on the door, from the inside of a room, without the need for any keys or the use of codes, and can be removed in seconds without the need for permanent fixture. Priced just £35 – well worth it for peace of mind! www.lifelock.co.uk www.BridesAbroad.tv 25

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Love Cyprus

Say “I do� on the magical island where, according to Greek mythology, Aphrodite, the goddess of beauty and love, is said to have risen from the waves.

28 www.BridesAbroad.tv

What could be more romantic than exchanging vows on one of the islands of love?

Photos of Laura and Darren Farwell’s wedding at Grecian Sands Hotel, Cyprus

by Teri and David Price of Murakami Photography (www.murakamiphotography.com)

W

ith its stunning coastline, beautiful beaches, historical sights, cobbled villages, cosy restaurants and lively nightlife, there’s no wonder that Cyprus is one of the most popular wedding destinations in the world.

If you dream of marrying in warm sunshine in an stunning ocean setting, but don’t want to travel to a far-flung destination, then Cyprus is your perfect choice. It is just a four and a half hour flight from UK airports and the cost of wedding packages compare attractively with long-haul destinations, including the Caribbean.

Cyrus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean sea, and did you know, Richard the Lionheart, King of England, wed Berengaria of Naverre in the Middle Ages on the island? So if it’s good enough for Royalty… And if you choose to marry in Cyprus, you can toast to your future with Commandaria, one of the oldest named wines in the world, produced only in Cyprus.

The island boasts one of the oldest civilizations in the world, dating back 10,000 years, and not surprisingly the country is like an open-air museum where you can visit prehistoric settlements, classical Greek temples, Roman theatres and villas and Byzantine churches and monasteries. Spend time with your loved one exploring Cyprus, and don’t forget to pay a visit to the Baths of Aphrodite, where according to Greek mythology, Aphrodite used to bathe and frolic with her lover, Adonis.

Cyprus has been stirring passion and romance since ancient times when Mark Anthony gave the island to Cleopatra as the ultimate token of love. The island possesses a unique beauty with many romantic locations providing a perfect backdrop to your wedding – from rugged coasts and white sandy beaches to sunny vineyards, lush citrus orchards and picturesque villages.

Charming chapels are also available within the grounds of a number of hotels and resorts.

If you are still in doubt, the fact that there are frequently over 300 sunny days a year, guaranteed to make your special day a success must surely be a deciding factor.

Whether you want an intimate ceremony with just the two of you, or to be surrounded with all your friends and family, you can be sure that you’ll have the magical wedding of your dreams.

Getting married in Cyprus Cyprus offers you the option of two types of ceremony, civil and church. If you like you can have both. They are perfectly legal and recognised worldwide.

Civil Marriages Under the provisions of the Marriage Law, anyone wishing to marry in Cyprus must apply in person, on arrival, to the Marriage Officer of the municipality of their choice in order to go through certain formalities, which are necessary prior to their wedding.

Religious weddings If you wish to have a religious wedding in Cyprus you should contact the Registered Minister of the religion of your choice. The procedure to be followed is the same as for a civil wedding.

Documentation • Full birth certificates • 10-year passports • Sworn Affidavits (statement signed and stamped by a solicitor confirming both parties are free to marry. This must be prepared one month or less before your wedding date) • Notice of Marriage – (must be submitted to a marriage officer prior to your marriage) • Baptism Certificate (for church weddings only) • Decree Absolute (if divorced) • Death Certificate and previous Marriage Certificate (if widowed) • Adoption Certificate (if adopted) • Letter of Parental Consent (if under 18) • Stamped proof if you have changed your name by deed poll.

Residency Requirement Special Licence (Fee €281.92) – 3 days Residency Requirement Normal Licence (Fee €128.15) – 15 days Residency Requireme] After your wedding ceremony, you will be issued with a Certificate of Marriage, which will be forwarded to the Embassy or the Consulate of your home country.

For further information visit: www.ucm.orgcy

www.BridesAbroad.tv 29

Queen Fit For A

The name Anassa means ‘Queen’ in ancient Greek, and that’s exactly how you will feel on your wedding day if you choose to marry at the stunning Anassa resort in Cyprus.

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n a glorious setting close to the village of Polis, Anassa exudes the charm of a traditional Cypriot village, tumbling down a secluded hillside towards the infinite blue of the eastern Mediterranean.

Anassa’s whitewashed low-rise buildings and tropical gardens are arranged around an idyllic village square complete with Byzantine chapel, which is a truly romantic place for your wedding or blessing ceremony.

Anassa’s Mediterranean interior décor reflects cool classical luxury throughout, and guests can choose between 175 rooms and suites located in the main building or in villas around the village square. All rooms have balconies and some suites have private plunge pools and whirlpools on sea-facing terraces – perfect for honeymooners seeking intimate seclusion.

The dining experience at Anassa is second to none, and incorporates fresh produce supplied locally – from tender herbs grown in the hotel’s garden to locally sourced seasonal specialities. Guests can choose from a number of restaurants offering everything from intimate dining to poolside grills and themed buffets, and daily-changing menus offer Cypriot, Mediterranean and Asian selections, as well as fine international and locally produced wines.

Pampering and active rest The luxurious Thalassa Spa is the perfect place for honeymooners to relax, rejuvenate

and indulge in spa treatments, and for brides and grooms to prepare and beautify before their wedding. This Roman-style health retreat covers the full spectrum of spa treatments and includes a sky-lit, columned indoor pool, 18 treatment rooms, saunas, steam baths, a seawater exercise pool, squash court, fitness room and hair salon.

Anassa has much to offer those seeking an idyllic honeymoon – glistening waterfalls link the resort’s two spectacular swimming pools, just steps from some of the finest luxury watersports facilities in Cyprus. Dive, sail and windsurf or take a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) out into the bay and explore the coastline – dropping anchor in the turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon for a swim and blissful picnic lunch. Or you can venture into the wilds of the Akamas Nature Reserve for jeep safaris, rock-climbing, mountain-biking and hill-trekking – or simply soak up the sun’s rays with a good book under a shady parasol on Anassa’s sandy beach.

A wedding at Anassa If you want to get married in Cyprus then Anassa is the ultimate, sophisticated wedding venue. Its classical architecture and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean provide an enchanting backdrop for dream weddings or blessings. Anassa’s expert wedding planners will take care of all the details to suit your every need - including fine food, attentive service and attention to detail.

The resort can cater for everything from gala banquets for 100 to an intimate candlelit dinner for two.

Say “I do” in the romantic Byzantine-style chapel, which hosts up to 40 guests and is set at the hotel’s Village Square. Alternatively, you can choose to have a civil wedding on the Sunset Terrace or in the gardens, or hotel’s ballroom, which is ideal for large parties. Anassa has a variety of beautiful terraces in the main building with spectacular views over the Mediterranean, which are perfect for Champagne receptions. Firework displays can also be arranged for that extra wow factor.

Wedding Package The package costs 850 euros and includes complimentary room upgrade; welcome fruit and flowers in room; a bottle of French Champagne and a surprise from the Pastry Chef at turn-down service; bride’s bouquet; cake for 10 people; candlelit dinner for two on your own terrace or balcony; Honeymoon Breakfast for two served in your room; makeup and hairstyling for the bride; Mini-Facial for the groom.

Anassa PO Box 66006 CY 8830, Polis, Cyprus Tel: +357 26 888 000 Email: anassa@thanoshotels.com www.thanoshotels.com www.BridesAbroad.tv 31

Advertising Feature

Blissful Spa Wedding

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any brides-to-be like to head to a luxurious spa resort to shape up, relax and prepare for their wedding. However, one sublime spa resort in Cyprus has extended its offering to enable couples to marry in a haven of pampering and calm Ayii Anargyri Spa resort offers sun-worshiping spa lovers a unique experience. Set in a lush valley amid fragrant citrus groves and mature trees, the resort offers the opportunity to be indulged from head to toe and enjoy the health-giving waters, which have benefited visitors for so many years.

The hotel dates back to 1649 when it was a natural Spa, opened by two brothers, Cosmas and Damianos to harness the mineral-rich water, which rises naturally in the nearby hills. Now the new luxury Ayii Anargyri Spa uses the natural health-giving spa water in many of its spa treatments.

The boutique spa hotel has been recently extended, renovated and refurbished in natural stone and timber in traditional Cypriot architectural style to provide accommodation for 150 guests, in beautifully appointed Garden Suites, Bungalows or Classic rooms. It has dedicated spa facilities in the grounds, a generous swimming pool and

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banqueting facilities, making it the ideal dream destination wedding in a gorgeous setting. Locally grown produce are used in the traditional Cypriot fare served in the hotel’s superb restaurants – which is garden fresh, nutritious and flavoursome.

months, the Amaroulla Restaurant provides an elegant alternative. Or you may want to experience the warm and intimate Medieval aura of Cava Gourmet, with its flickering candles on the antique teak tables, unforgettable wine and gastronomic delights.

Honeymooners too, will discover that the resort offers a tonic for body and mind as they indulge in spa treatments and couples spa rituals, relax by the pool in the Cypriot sunshine and join in the abundance of outdoor pursuits, including cycling, walking and bird watching.

The hotel can arrange for a range of wedding services including a wedding planner; document advice and legal formalities; professional photographer; florist, transport; entertainment; wedding cake and hair and makeup. All prices are available on application. The Hotel provides complimentary one night accommodation for the wedding couple in one of their prestige suites.

Weddings in a spectacular setting Whether you intend to celebrate your wedding with just close family or are planning a big event, Ayii Anargyri offers a spectacular setting for your big day. The tiny chapel of Ayii Anargyri dates back to 1649 and stands in the grounds of the spa – there are few places more romantic for couples to exchange their vows or have a blessing. The picturesque scenery, accommodation and catering combine to make the perfect recipe for your wedding day.

The poolside terrace is ideal for Wedding Receptions or during the brief winter

NATURAL HEALING SPA RESORT PO Box 8 CY-8726, Cyprus Tel: +357 26 814 000 Email: info@aasparesort.com www.aasparesort.com

Advertising Feature

Every Bride is a Princess At Aphrodite Hills

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verlooking the glittering Mediterranean Sea at the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, the InterContinental Aphrodite Hills Resort Hotel in Cyprus embodies the essence of love and romance and provides the ideal setting for a dazzling celebration.

Whether your celebration is an intimate gathering or a grand affair there is a wide variety of stunning ceremony and reception venues which together with the unrivalled reputation of InterContinental Hotels for service excellence will ensure that every bride’s special day unfolds flawlessly.

You and your distinguished guests will enjoy the luxury and class of the InterContinental Hotel in one of its 290 guest rooms and suites with views of the golf, sea, garden or pool. 21 rooms have a private pool or

Jacuzzi, and all rooms enjoy a spacious balcony. Alternatively, one of the luxurious villas or apartments of the Resort can also be used for you and your guests’ accommodation.

With a choice of 4 Restaurants, bars and lounges of the InterContinental Hotel and cascading outdoor and indoor pools you will be spoilt for choice. Additionally, the restaurants and bars of the traditional village square as well as the golf clubhouse overlooking the golf greens can all offer the whole wedding party tons of fun.

Aphrodite Hills also features a magnificent 18-hole championship golf course, the newly launched Annabel Croft Tennis Academy and the award winning Retreat Spa which offers extensive specialised treatments.

Perfecting the little details that make up “your day”, Aphrodite Hills’ specialist

Wedding Coordinator will take care of all the arrangements leaving you with the freedom to relax and enjoy your stay in Cyprus.

As a unique gift to you each wedding couple will plant their own commemorative Olive Tree in the grounds of Aphrodite Hills as an everlasting reminder of your special day.

Every bride is a princess who deserves a fairytale wedding and at Aphrodite Hills you can be assured your dreams will come true.

APHRODITE HILLS RESORT HOTEL CYPRUS

Tel: + 357 26 829000 Dir: + 357 26 829702 Fax:+ 357 26 829627 www.intercontinental.com/aphrodite or www.aphroditehills.com

www.BridesAbroad.tv 33

Magnificent With its stunning beaches, superb climate, natural beauty, archaeological sites and ‘chilled’ vibe, it’s hardly surprising that Mexico is a favourite long-haul destination for couples seeking the ultimate beach wedding

Mexico offers a charming blend of colour, energy and history. Spectacular temples, colonial churches and pyramids are a reminder of the past civilisations that flourished here over 2000 years ago.

Although Mexico is part of the North American continent, its tradition belongs more to Central and South America.

This beautiful country offers visitors the unique experience of a nation rich in history, tradition and culture where the locals create unrivalled handicrafts and a varied and colourful cuisine.

Holidaymakers can enjoy a host of outdoor activities or browse shops and museums and discover regional traditions. All this makes Mexico an ideal destination for both weddings and dream honeymoons.

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Cancun

One of Mexico’s top beach destinations is the city of Cancun, which is set amid great natural beauty, offering white sandy beaches along a turquoise stretch of ocean with pristine coral reefs teeming with colourful marine life and a perfect year-round climate. Cancun has an abundance of shopping, entertainment and sports, and at night the fun continues in nightclubs, restaurants and theatres.

The resort offers visitors a wide range of luxurious hotels to suit all tastes, which can accommodate destination weddings and romantic honeymoons as well as providing a delightful base from which to discover the region’s marvels. These include the archaeological sites of Tulum and Chichen Itza and the Caribbean islands of Mujeres and Cozumel.

Dreams Cancun Hotel Dreams Cancun Resort & Spa offers Unlimited-Luxury® – it’s an all-inclusive resort in a beautiful location. This unique hotel features a dolphinarium for guests to swim with the dolphins, the Dreams Spa by Pevonia and complimentary green fees at the nearby golf club. Most guest rooms enjoy sweeping ocean views and exquisite gourmet à la carte dining, plus nightly entertainment including a live music, shows and outdoor movies on the beach. It is also a magical setting for your dream wedding, offering stunning beach ceremonies and receptions, as well as a choice of indoor and outdoor venues. The resort’s wedding team will ensure your day is perfect from start to finish. www.tropicalsky.co.uk

Hyatt Regency Cancun Located in the heart of Cancun, Hyatt Regency Cancun enjoys a superb location and one of the best white sand beaches in the area with breathtaking views over the Caribbean Sea and Nichupte lagoon. The hotel is close to shopping centres, restaurants, cultural attractions and nightlife. Host your wedding celebrations at Hyatt Regency Cancun hotel and choose from a beautiful indoor wedding venue, the magnificent white sand beach or the resort’s beachfront gazebo and gardens. The hotel’s wedding coordinators will arrange all the details of your civil ceremony and the wedding of your dreams. www.cancun.regency.hyatt.com

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The Mayan Riviera A Mayan Riviera honeymoon is perfect for those wishing to get closer to nature.

Set in the Yucatan Peninsula, it lies in an area of natural beauty along an unspoiled stretch of coastline running for 75 miles along the shores of the Caribbean. Some of the state’s largest and most bustling towns and superb resort hotels are found along this tourist corridor, along with traditional communities and isolated beaches. Unleash your spirit of adventure and learn the secrets the Mayan Riviera holds, enjoy a host of activities from diving and snorkelling to visiting water parks and archaeological sites or simply relax on soft sandy beaches lapped by tranquil waters that glisten with numerous shades of blue.

Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa Tulum held a mystical power over the ancient Mayan civilization, which built its world-famous pyramids here.

Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa is a luxurious sanctuary just five minutes away from Tulum’s pyramids, offering all-inclusive Unlimited-Luxury®. Set among manicured gardens, the resort blends classic colonial with contemporary architecture set against a brilliant white beach, deeply azure sea and tall palms.

The resort offers plush accommodation, exquisite dining in seven international restaurants and a sensuous spa. It also offers a unique setting for your destination wedding and honeymoon, with the hotel’s wedding team on hand to ensure your day is perfect. www.tropicalsky.co.uk

Grand Sirenis, Riviera Maya The all-inclusive Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya 5* luxe boasts several Mayan ruins, huge cenotes (natural caves), five virgin beaches and the largest coral reef on the Mayan Riviera – perfect for swimmers and deep sea diving. The cenotes are sacred spots for contemporary Mayans, just as they were for their ancestors. Legend has it that the water in these caves is totally pure, as it has not been touched by daylight. Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya offers luxurious accommodation, superb dining and weddings with a difference in a place of incredible beauty. The hotel’s wedding coordinator will do the rest – from romantic decorations to delicious reception meals. www.sirenishotels.com

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Getting married in Mexico Say “I do” on an idyllic Caribbean beach, and enjoy a romantic honeymoon amidst ancient Mayan ruins...

Mexico offers stunning places to get married in picture perfect settings – from golden sandy beaches to old colonial cities with their charms and traditions and quaint churches. However, if you choose to marry in Mexico, you will need to plan ahead and get a few documents together, fill in forms and pay a few fees.

Your wedding planner or tour operator will explain what documentation you need and guide you through the process.

The legals…

In Mexico, only civil marriages are recognised as legal.

You may have a religious ceremony but it will have no legal implications, you will need a civil wedding too. A civil wedding in Mexico is fully valid for legal purposes worldwide, but a religious wedding without a civil ceremony is not. The ceremony can be performed at the Oficina del Registro Civil (Registry Office) or elsewhere, including in hotel grounds or on the beach.

Fees range from £65 to £160. The ceremony will be conducted in Spanish in the presence of an interpreter, and the marriage certificate will be in Spanish, which you can then have translated into English.

The paperwork You will need to organize the following paperwork: n Residency - There are no Mexican residential requirements but you should allow a few days for legal checks. n Medical checks - You must have a blood test done in Mexico and the Civil Registers Office can recommend a doctor or clinic. n Proof of ID - Your original birth certificates*, a valid 10-year passport and an entry permit will all be required. n Proof of status - For marriages to take place in Mexico you must both attend your local Register Office in the UK and give “notice of marriage”. After 21 days, a ‘certificate of non impediment’* will be issued, valid for three months. n Divorced - You must provide your Decree Absolute* with court stamp. n Widowed - If widowed, you need to produce the death certificate* of your former spouse. n Age restrictions - Minors under 18 cannot marry without written and notarised permission from a parent or legal guardian. n Name change - If your name has been changed by Deed Poll* you must provide the legal proof stamped and signed by a solicitor. This also applies if a married woman has reverted back to her maiden name.

NOTE: All documents marked * in this section have to be translated into Spanish by a legal translator and then certified by the Legalisation Department at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London

Further information Mexican Embassy - www.embamex.co.uk Mexican Consulate - www.mexicanconsulate.org.uk The Legalisation Department - Foreign and Commonwealth Office - www.fco.gov.uk/legalisation Mexico Tourism - www.visitmexico.com www.BridesAbroad.tv 37

RealWEDDINGS

A Mayan Marriage Carrie and Mike say “I do” on a Mexican beach

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hen Carrie Baker from High Wycombe first laid eyes on Mike Pitt in the office they shared, it was Valentine’s Day – and although the spark of mutual attraction was in the air, it took a while for love to reach full bloom. When it finally did, they celebrated with a glorious beach wedding in Mexico.

Finding ‘the one’ “We met at work. I worked in-house doing the PR for Dreams and at the time we both worked in the Marketing department.

We clicked straight away but it took a long time for us actually to get together. If you ask Mike, he will say I fell for him the moment I saw him, which ironically was Valentine’s Day. However, the truth is it happened very slowly: we started out as friends, became closer and it actually took us over two years to finally get together.

who had married at our hotel. They were invaluable at answering all our questions.

We booked through Blue Bay Travel who were excellent. We were quite relaxed about our planning, but as event co-ordination is a big part of my job I did find myself microplanning! We booked a catamaran trip with Fat Cat Catamarans for our party two days before the wedding, which was amazing and a great way for our guests to get to know each other.

I also planned a lot of the day as well, which made the process when we arrived much easier.

The guests There were 19 of us in total and we were lucky, they all stayed at our hotel – Dreams Tulum. We didn’t have everyone we wanted at the wedding – cost did prohibit some of our friends. However, we knew when we booked that was a risk and actually, on the day, it was perfect.

The proposal We actually booked the wedding before he’d proposed – which put a lot of pressure on Mike to get down on one knee! He’d planned a big romantic proposal on Fireworks Night the week before we flew out to Mexico, but unfortunately my Dad let it slip out one night when he was drunk, so he had to go back to the drawing board! In the end, he took me to Cliveden House for a picnic about a month before we went and got down on one knee in the middle of the maze. When I said yes, he produced Champagne and two glasses which we drank to the amusement of the other people in the maze! It was totally unexpected that day, although obviously I knew it had to happen sometime in the following month!

Location location We wanted something small, simple and very little fuss. And the thought of marrying on a long stretch of sand in the sunshine with just our close friends and family was very appealing. Originally we had chosen Mauritius for our destination wedding, but we realised we were making it very unobtainable for most of our family and friends, so we tried to find a more costeffective option. Mexico was somewhere we had both wanted to go to and once we started looking, it seemed perfect.

The planning The hotel where we married, Dreams Tulum, had a wedding co-ordinator who was fantastic, but in addition I discovered an amazing forum called bestdestinationwedding.com full of brides

Getting the look I wore a Maggie Sotterro called Madison Marie from a local wedding shop and it was actually the third dress I tried on. I tried on another 20 dresses after that, but that was just ‘the one’. It wasn’t as lightweight as I’d planned but it was just so simple and perfect for me. I had to have it! I had very few accessories – a diamond necklace and earrings I borrowed from my mum and a charm bracelet Mike had bought me the year before. I wore flowers in my hair; we were in the Caribbean after all! I did buy a tiara I but didn’t use it – I just felt it was too much for the beach. My hair and makeup was included in the hotel’s wedding package.

Something old, something new…

Something old – a piece of old lace from Mike’s great great grandmother’s veil which we sewed onto my garter.

Something new – the dress of course!

Something borrowed – my jewellery from my mum and Something blue – a tiny blue bow on my garter.

Groom & bridesmaids Unfortunately my best friend couldn’t make it out for the wedding, but we had Mike’s (and now my) niece as a gorgeous flower girl who wore a simple white lace dress. Both Mike and his best man (his brother Darren) wore dark grey suits, and white shirts. Mike also wore a grey waistcoat as he wanted to ensure he looked different. www.BridesAbroad.tv 39

The details Our colour theme was Fuschia and Orange.

I love roses so my bouquet was a handtied mix of fuschia and orange roses. As for my wedding cake, I chose one that had been recommended on bestdestinationwedding.

It was called Three Milks cake with strawberry filling and it was AMAZING. All our guests said it was the best cake they have ever had!

The ceremony The ceremony took place at midday on the beach. At first I was worried that it would be too early and too hot at this time, but actually I am so glad we did it then as it meant the whole day lasted so much longer and although it was hot, it was no hotter than later in the day. The ceremony lasted about 20 minutes – any longer and I think our poor guests would have died of heat!

We were married by a local judge and then our wedding co-ordinator, Annabel, translated for her. My stepdad Colin gave me away.

The reception The reception was held in one of the openair restaurants at the hotel. It was right on the beach and so had stunning views. We had one big long table plus a DJ and a dance floor.

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We had Shrimp fried quesadilla for starter, then Asparagus Salad, followed by Surf and Turf and the best steak I have ever had, and for dessert, Vanilla Puff Pastry Cake.

I designed menus for the table and we had vases of roses as table decorations. Our First Dance was to Phil Collins – Groovy Kind of Love – then we booked a troupe of fire dancers to come and entertain our party for 45 mins – they were fantastic!

Photographic memories The wedding package we booked included photographs and videographer and we did use both. However, photographs are incredibly important to us and so we were prepared to invest extra in a good photographer to ensure we got the best photo’s possible. I found Sascha on the BDW forum who came highly recommended. He was extremely friendly and his work was outstanding - a true artist. He was lying in the sand and walking through the water just to get the best shot.

My favourite photo is the one with a shot of the whole beach and us just standing to the side, it really captures the stunning scenery and the whole reason we chose a destination wedding.

We did a ‘Trash the dress’ photo shoot the day after the wedding, which was so much fun and although my friends were all horrified at me ‘trashing’ the dress, the photos are amazing and I am so glad we did it!

Magic moments My favourite memory was walking down the aisle and seeing Mike turn round and look at me, apparently he mouthed “stunning” but I completely missed it! Our funniest memory was when the judge asked if there was any reason why we shouldn’t be married. Our three-year-old nephew decided to choose that moment to say “yes”!

On budget?

It cost about £10k, although that included a two-week holiday, the catamaran trip and all the other extras we organised. It was a little over budget but I wouldn’t change a thing!

The honeymoon We moved about 40-minutes away to a resort called Puerto Moreles and had our second week to ourselves at an adults-only resort there.”

Further information Wedding planner: Annabel Sanchez – Dreams Tulum Venue: Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa, Riviera Maya, Mexico www.dreamsresorts.com Photographer: Sascha Gluck www.cancunphotos.net www.BridesAbroad.tv 41

Steal Carrie’s Style

The colourful floral displays at Carrie’s wedding in the Mayan Riviera perfectly reflected Mexico’s vibrant charms in her dazzling beach wedding.

Crystal jewellery set by June Ellen, £25 www.crystalfrost.co.uk

Silk hair flower www.monsoon.co.uk

Charm bracelet, £6 www.accessorize.co.uk Orange bridesmaid dress by Lara www.dressesbylara.com

Silk flower bouquet www.sarasflowers.co.uk

Starfish sandals by Aspiga, £69 www.aspiga.com

Fuscia bridesmaid dress by Kelsey Rose www.kelseyrose.co.uk 42 wwwBridesAbroad.tv

Dress by Trudy Lee www.trudylee.co.uk

Advertising Feature

We love weddings at

Son Granot!

Why? It’s simple. Weddings are moments of wonderful hopes and dreams, of happiness and desires for a great future and we at Son Granot identify very much with all these sentiments.

That’s why we want you to have the best wedding possible, like a dream come true, not just any dream – your dream!

We’ll take care of everything, so the only thing that you’ll have to worry about is enjoying your big day. We’ll prepare your wedding according to your wishes and take care of all the details, right down to the smallest.

We’ll accompany you on every step of the way in the preparation of your wedding so that everything is as easy and as stress free as possible. We can advise you on your selection of flowers and decoration, the style of the table dressings, music, entertainment, photographer, choosing the wedding cake, the menu and aperitifs, vehicles for transporting the bride and groom, the guests and whatever other wishes you may have.

The menu is something that needs to be taken care of right down to the tiniest detail and to that end we’ll help you plan it according to your tastes and with the maximum quality that typifies Son Granot.

We’ll help you choose the best spots in Son Granot to ensure that everything will be perfect – the ceremony, the aperitif, the lunch or dinner, the party or whatever other activity you would like to enjoy.

Further information Hotel Rural Son Granot Call: +34 971 355 555 Email: hotel@songranot.com Log on to: www.songranot.com

www.BridesAbroad.tv 43

RealWEDDINGS

Celebrations in

Cancun Sally and Vincent’s Mexican wedding party!

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hen Sally Wareham of Eastcote in London married Vincent Berry, it was a great excuse for the couple to throw the party of a lifetime for family and friends at their stunning beach wedding resort in Cancun, Mexico.

Finding ‘the one’ “We met through mutual friends at a local pub, and there was definitely an instant attraction between us.

The proposal We were on holiday in Dubai visiting a friend. Vince told me I had to be ready to go out, but didn’t say where. We walked over to the marina and on to a private yacht, which he had hired especially for the occasion. As we went out to sea at sunset, he got down on one knee and proposed! It was completely unexpected – we had been together for nine years, so he didn’t exactly rush into it!

Location, location We originally found a location close to home, but when it came to parting with our deposit, it didn’t feel right. We’d always said we’d get married abroad which was definitely more ‘us’ and a lot less stressful!

I’m always looking at places abroad that I would like to visit, but the only two places Vince has ever said he wanted to go is the

Maldives and Mexico. A wedding in the Maldives is not legal in the UK so it would have meant getting married in a registry office first, which completely defeats the object for us, so Mexico it was! Once we’d seen the wedding gazebo at Dreams Cancun, we instantly knew it was where we wanted to get married.

The planning I got in touch with Sandra Stratford at Tropical Sky Weddings (www.tropicalsky. co.uk) who guided us through the booking process and liaised with the hotel on our behalf. Then, on arrival in Cancun, she passed us over to Claudia who is the wedding coordinator at Dreams Cancun to arrange the finishing touches. Sandra was truly amazing and made us feel at ease and confident every step of the way.

She ensured that our requested wedding date and time was available before taking our booking, then she answered every question we had – and, if she didn’t know the answer, she found out. The main details were planned before we left for Mexico – but we left the finer details until we arrived at the hotel.

The guests We had 20 guests who all stayed at Dreams Cancun with us and were excited to be going abroad for a wedding.

However, there were a few people who couldn’t make the trip, which was a shame – but we planned an evening reception on our return to the UK so we could celebrate with everyone. www.BridesAbroad.tv 45

Getting the look My first trip to get my wedding dress was a disaster. I didn’t know what I wanted, I felt silly when I tried the dresses on – that wasn’t what I thought it would be like.

Then a friend pulled out an advert from the paper for a wedding dress sale in London, so I went with mum hoping to come away with at least an idea of what I wanted. The dresses were all on racks set out in sizes with a long queue outside the shop. You could only try six dresses at a time, so I picked mine and joined the huge queue for the dressing room. I came away with my wedding dress and I paid half the price!!

It was a backless halter neck dress, with jewels around the neck and a small train – perfect for my wedding abroad! I chose to wear just a simple bracelet and flowers in my hair, which was styled by Mariah, the stylist in the hotel spa. I had a hair trial a few days before, but didn’t trial my make-up – I was a little worried about how it would turn out, but thankfully my make-up was amazing. I loved how she did it.

Something old, something new?

Something old and something borrowed was a pair of earrings my sister-in-law lent me, which she had worn to her own wedding the previous year – she wasn’t able to travel to my wedding so it felt extra special 46 wwwBridesAbroad.tv

to have these. Something new were my bracelet, shoes, dress – basically everything I had on! Something blue was on my garter.

Groom & bridesmaids Vince wears a suit every day for work, so it’s not special for him to dress up in a suit.

Therefore, as the weather was hot, he opted for stone grey linen trousers and a white shirt. The dads of groom and bride and the best man all had the same outfits. My nieces, aged 8,11 and 12, were bridesmaids and wore Cadburys purple satin dresses.

We chose our colour scheme right at the beginning and spent hours hunting for bridesmaid dresses in this colour, which weren’t too formal or too flouncy. In the end, we found the perfect dresses in a small local shop.

The details The hotel’s wedding coordinator showed us lots of options for the flowers. It was hard to chose as the pictures were not in the colours of our wedding theme. We chose gerberas, roses and lilies in purple and whites and fuchsia orchids. When Claudia brought them into the spa on the day of the wedding, they surpassed my expectations and were beautiful. We had a traditional Mexican milk wedding cake.

The ceremony Our wedding ceremony took place in the wedding gazebo at Dreams Cancun, surrounded by the amazingly blue Caribbean Sea. It lasted around 30 minutes and I was given away by my dad, who walked me down the aisle to Let’s Get Married, by Jagged Edge. We were married by the Justice of Peace, Minister Maria Del Ferrer Osorio and had our fingerprints taken and put on the wedding certificates, which is part of the ceremony in Mexico. You must also have four witnesses that have to sign four documents each.

The reception After the wedding, our reception was held on the club terrace overlooking the wedding gazebo with breathtaking ocean views. First we had a cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres and later followed a sit-down meal. We took table decorations with us – purple petals and table crystals and butterfly name place settings. We also made some door hangers as favours for our guests. For the meal, we had Caesar Salad to start, followed by À La Romana Minestrone Soup. The main course was Steak with a honey and mustard crust and Strawberry Cheesecake for dessert.

We danced our First Dance to Wifey by Next, and we took our own Bose music system and iPod so we didn’t need further entertainment – the atmosphere was great!

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Photographic memories The photographer, Daniel Aguilar, was provided by the hotel and was a really lovely guy and great photographer. He made us feel at ease and was confident we would have amazing photos – how right he was!

The backdrop was amazing, we could never have had pictures like this at home.

A member of our wedding party videod the ceremony and speeches and added his own running commentary – thank you Mr Moon! It certainly made us laugh and smile when watching it back home!

Our favourite photo is of us jumping in front of the lighthouse – it isn’t a traditional wedding photo and really represents us as a couple – it’s definitely one for the wall at home. Although we followed some wedding traditions, we wanted our wedding to be a little more relaxed and fun.

Magic moments How often do you get to go on holiday with all your closest family and friends?

We also had our hen and stag nights in Mexico and have the best memories! We swam with dolphins to celebrate my niece’s 12th birthday, whizzed over the jungle on zip wires, had a 4x4 driving experience, drove speed boats through the mangroves, 48 wwwBridesAbroad.tv

trampolined in the sea, and ate and drank at the great restaurants at the resort.

Perfect memories!

What a laugh!

The best man’s speech was very funny – he was so nervous, he read it at about 100 miles an hour, then later he told us he had actually missed a big chunk out! The stag night also produced hilarious anecdotes – the boys returned to the hotel in dribs and drabs as each person had finally had enough to drink, including my nephew who had to be taken to his hotel room by one of the porters in a wheelchair as he drank so much! Also on the stag, Vince was unwillingly entered into a dancing competition – he put his all in to it and came out the winner!

Close shave!

We flew in to Cancun to be told hurricane Rina was due in the following days. We checked into the hotel and were told to pack an emergency overnight bag in case we were evacuated – can you get any more disastrous than that? Although in the end it all added to the experience and adventure!

The following days had unsettled weather and we saw other weddings moved indoors

due to weather conditions – I think we can definitely say the nerves set in at that point, but thankfully it all came good for us on the big day!

On budget?

The whole wedding cost just £7k. We didn’t set a budget as once we had looked at getting married in the UK, we knew that whatever we did abroad was going to be a lot less anyway.

The honeymoon We stayed on at the hotel for our honeymoon. The day after our wedding the rest of the party went on a catamaran trip, leaving us newlyweds with the day to ourselves. Other than this, we shared it all with our friends and family. We have our whole life to honeymoon alone!”

Further information Wedding planner: Sandra Stratford at Tropical Sky Weddings, www.tropicalsky.co.uk and Claudia at Dreams Cancun Venue: Dreams Resort and Spa, Cancun Photographer: Daniel Aguilar

Steal Sally’s Style Sally proves that you can still enjoy total glamour in a beachside setting with a theme which blends floral, glitzy and a flash of violet

Flower hair accessory www.monsoon.co.uk

Diamanté earrings, £20 www.monsoon.co.uk

Diamanté bracelet, £20 www.monsoon.co.uk

Purple candles, £6 www.debenhams.com

Purple silk flowers in metal bucket, £45 www.debenhams.com

Silk long stemmed lily, £9 www.debenhams.com

Nadine sling back shoes, £495 www.freyarose.co.uk

Purple bridesmaid dress www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk

Dress by Mark Lesley, style 5032 www.marklesley.co.uk www.BridesAbroad.tv 49

RealWEDDINGS

Butterflies & Bling

Claire and Ben’s mix of glamour and romance in Italy 50 wwwBridesAbroad.tv

A

fter a truly romantic proposal on a hill during a dog walk in the English countryside, Claire Warren and Ben Freeman from Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire chose a rustic Italian villa as the perfect setting for their vintage glamour wedding celebrations with a host of family and friends.

Finding ‘the one’ Our wonderful friend Helen Foy set us up on a blind date. Helen and I worked together and she is the best friend of Ben’s little sister Heidi. She texted me a photo of Ben and shortly after, Ben and I exchanged numbers. A few weeks later we had our first date. It was love at first sight! We just hit it off straightaway and have been inseparable ever since.

The proposal We both love nothing more than walking our dogs, Molly and George. On Valentine’s Day 2010, Ben suggested we walk to the top of the steep hill down the road from where we live to take in the fantastic views over the Waddesdon Estate, as we so often did. This day was drizzling with rain so I moaned all the way to the top.

My hair was wind swept and my make-up non-existent due to the rain. In the midst of my grumbling, I realised that Ben had dropped to one knee with a gorgeous ring and a mini bottle of Champagne in his pocket. It was totally unexpected and one of the best days of my life! Despite the rain, Ben managed to pick the best place in the world to pop the question!

Location, location We always knew we wanted to get married abroad. I’d been to a few weddings in Italy and we had both attended a friend’s wedding in France. We loved the informal feel and truly unique settings that weddings abroad offer.

We came across an absolutely stunning villa called Villa Giona in a breathtaking location just 10 minutes from the city of love, Verona. Villa Giona’s tranquil rural setting made a spectacular venue for our wedding reception and a perfect, secluded, intimate hub for our family and friends to stay and relax together.

The planning Most of the arrangements were made via the talented Villa Giona team; Marion, Franco and Paolo. For us the biggest

concern with marrying abroad was the legal side of the wedding, however, this was all seamlessly taken care of by Marion. They also organised our catering, music and flowers.

The guests Of course we had some loved ones that sadly couldn’t make it due it being overseas, however, we were completely overwhelmed with the number of guests that could share our special day with us. We had about 55 family and friends join us for the celebrations in Italy. Some stayed at Villa Giona, whilst others stayed in local B&B’s.

Getting the look I really wanted an elegant, vintage lace dress with a touch of bling to add glamour. My dress was ‘Venus’ by the superb designer Sophia Tolli, which I purchased from Once in a Lifetime in Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes. The dress came with a bustle, which we attached a small crystal and pearl butterfly on, to give it more of a bespoke twist. I was very lucky to have amazing, talented friends at the wedding that helped me get ready for the big day. Katie Sellwood was my makewww.BridesAbroad.tv 51

up artist, and Kelly Fletcher did my hair (into not only one, but two styles – one for the day and one for the evening!). They were both brilliant and rushed around to get me ready as well as getting themselves stunning for the wedding too….

Groom, ushers & bridesmaids The bling and glamour theme followed through to the bridesmaids who wore teal green Grecian-style dresses, which we customised by adding a row of Swarovski crystals to the shoulders to add sparkle.

The guys wore black dinner jackets with matching teal green lining.

Something old, something new?

My fantastic bridesmaids provided me with my ‘something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue’, but the most special of all was a photograph of my Granddad Cherry who had passed away some years ago. I had always wanted him to sing Doris Day’s Once I had a Secret Love at my wedding like he had done for my 21st birthday, but having his photo attached to the underneath of my dress was the nicest feeling to have him with me on my most magical day.

The details The theme of the wedding was butterflies and bling. We picked the butterfly as it symbolises evolution and change, leaving one life behind to start a new journey. The bling was just a good excuse for lots and lots of glamour! The bridal bouquet had white vendela roses with diamantés in the centre of the roses. The table centres were filled with orternsias, gypsofilia, vendela roses, and butterflies. We also had scatter crystals on the tables and butterfly lanterns around the villa. We printed 12 postcards with our address and a stamp and distributed them across the tables. At the top of the postcard we noted the month we wanted the postcard to be sent back to us. We then asked that people write their memories of the day on the postcard and post to us during the month requested. This ended up being a wonderful idea, as now every month we get a little surprise through the post box, and each time we receive our postcard, we get to relive our day again, and again. Cake-wise, we decided to have a cup cake tower in butterfly cases. These were lovingly made on the morning of the wedding by my cousin Maxine and her little helpers.

The ceremony The ceremony itself was a civil ceremony at Malcesine castle in Lake Garda. It was outdoors on the castle terrace overlooking the lake, so the views were simply awesome.

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My mum, Julie, is my best friend and rock, so it meant the absolute world to me that she was by my side to walk me down the aisle and give me away. We walked down the isle to Edwina Hayes Feels like home, which is featured in My Sister’s Keeper. We signed the marriage certificate to Kissing You by Des’ree, the theme tune to Romeo and Juliet, which seemed very apt with Verona being the home of Romeo and Juliet’s balcony. At the end of the ceremony, all of the guests walked out to Dean Martin’s That’s Amore.

The reception The evening reception was held at Villa Giona. We had drinks and nibbles as soon as we arrived back from Lake Garda.

The evening meal started with Tortellini di Valeggio with butter and sage dressing, for the main course we had Chateaubriand with fine herbs served with oven-baked potatoes, courgette towers and green bean parcels wrapped in bacon. For dessert, we had a trio of mousses. During the meal, a live guitarist played. Then, shortly after dinner we cut the cake whist singing to That’s Amore – everyone sang along at the top of their voices and the little ones waved sparklers

in their hands – it was one of my favourite memories! That song now makes me smile every time I think about it. Ben and I had our First Dance to Eva Cassidy’s Songbird.

Photographic memories Paul Toeman from Paul Toeman Photography was our truly fantastic and creative photographer. Paul was the photographer for one of our best friends, weddings and we always knew that if we were ever lucky enough to get married, Paul would be our number one choice. Paul met us in Italy before the wedding and took photos of a pizza/pasta night we had for all of the guests to kick start the celebrations.

Considering Paul had never been to the venue before, he has a natural flair of finding the unique and quirky shots that make a simply remarkable photograph. We needed a very special photographer that we trusted fully and we can say, hand on heart, that picking Paul was the best decision we could have made.

The honeymoon We decided to have a belated honeymoon in the January of the following year. I

would recommend it to any couple that gets married abroad, as it just gives you something else to look forward to, and most importantly, some quality time together.

Party back home When Ben and I got back home, we arranged a big UK party for all of our family and friends – we are both massive Big Band and Rat Pack lovers, so the party kick started with a wonderfully talented jazz singer Adam Chandler, followed by lots of dancing – thanks to our brilliant DJ Dom Price!

Further information Wedding planner: Marion Hunter from Villa Giona Venue: Villa Giona and Malcesine Castle in Lake Garda www.villagionaweddings.com Photographer: Paul Toeman from Paul Toeman Photography www.paultoemanphotography.com www.BridesAbroad.tv 53

Steal Clare’s Style

Crystal earrings, £18 www.glitzysecrets.com

With girlish prettiness blended with Mediterranean glamour, Clare looked breathtaking at her Italian wedding

Abigail lace parasol, £29.99 www.brolliesgalore.co.uk

Hair flower www.monsoon.co.uk Silk wedding bouquet, Ivory Rose, £61.50 www.sarahsflowers.co.uk

Diamanté hair clips www.monsoon.co.uk Turquoise bridesmaid dress by Very Lydia www.dianehardbridge.com

Butterfly candles www.dotcomgifts.com

Lace clutch bag, £40 www.monsoon.co.uk

Bari sandals by Aspiga www. www.aspiga.com 54 wwwBridesAbroad.tv

Dress by Sweetheart, style 5960 www.sweetheartgowns.com

Turquoise bridesmaid dress by Mori Lee www.morilee.co.uk

Private Islands | Eco Lodges | Luxury Retreats | Spa Breaks | Diving | Boat Charters | Safari

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Private Islands | Eco Lodges | Luxury Retreats | Spa Breaks | Diving | Safari

Explore Pure Tailor Made Adventures

info@PureSafari.co.uk | Tel: +44 (0)1227 753181

Thai the Knot

Traci and David’s beach nuptials in Koh Samui

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W

hen Traci Standley and David Little from Tredlington, a tiny village close to the Cotswolds, decided to tie the knot, they swapped their quaint village in the English countryside for the exotic Far East for their destination wedding on a tropical beach.

Finding ‘the one’ We met in the care home in Hampton in Arden, Solihull where I worked with David’s mother – he came to visit her and it was love at first sight! When we finally got married, we had been together nearly seven years.

The proposal David proposed in a Thai restaurant in Stratford upon Avon on Christmas Eve 2010. He got down on one knee with our son on his lap for support and asked if I would be his Mrs Little. It was totally unexpected as he always said he would never propose near Christmas!

Location location We always wanted to get married on a beach and somewhere tropical, and thought a wedding abroad would be more intimate. We both dreamed of Tahiti, however, it was too far to travel with our son and to expect guests to travel so far.

We share the love of Thai cuisine and culture and wanted a destination that was

different, unlike getting married in Spain or Greece. Our chosen venue, Amari Palm Reef Resort, Koh Samui, ticked all the boxes.

The planning We booked our wedding through Tropical Sky, who were very helpful with all the arrangements. We planned as much as possible before we went – everything except flowers, table plan and hair.

The guests Our wedding party consisted of 21 close friends and family who stayed in various hotels in Koh Samui – some also visited other islands and destinations after the wedding. We gave people 11 months notice and about half those we invited were able to come out and join us. It was a case of affording it.

Getting the look I bought my wedding dress from the NEC wedding show in Birmingham – an Ian Stuart designer dress. It was an unusual colour and a little vintage – it wasn’t your typical beach wedding dress at all and I was hot in it, but I loved it! The wedding rings were beach themed in an oyster shell and I wore freshwater pearls to match my dress. The hotel arranged for my hair to be done and I loved it but I wanted to do my own make-up as I had dreams of them making me look like a clown!

www.BridesAbroad.tv 57

Something old, something new?

Old: photo of my nan who is no longer with us, it was in a locket wrapped around my bouquet; Blue: on my garter; New: my necklace!

Groom & bridesmaids David wore a full Scottish kilt – black spirit – he looked fab! My bridesmaids had Ted Baker maxi dresses on and all the ushers’ and best man’s cravats matched as I had another dress cut up to make them – they were silver grey with bright butterflies all over.

My little boy, Sebastian, is two and was a page boy – he had shorts and a waistcoat with a hanky to match the cravats.

58 wwwBridesAbroad.tv

The details We themed our wedding ‘Tropical Beach’ – our table accessories were beach themed with shells for name places and elephant key rings for favours as they are lucky in Thailand. Our flowers were orchids of course in Thailand! The wedding cake was a coconut sponge with orchids on top.

The ceremony Our wedding ceremony took place on the beach and lasted 30 minutes. We had a traditional Thai wedding with a water blessing and drum procession. I was given away by both my dad and step dad and was officially married by the hotel manager.

The reception Our wedding reception was a Thai BBQ held down on the beach, which included everything you could possibly wish for.

Our beach theme table decorations also included shell flower fans, disposable cameras and name place cards which we placed on really unusual shells.

Our First Dance was to Over the Rainbow, Israel Kamwakawoli. We also arranged for entertainment with a DJ, sky lanterns and traditional Thai Khim player. During the meal, we also had fireworks on the beach.

Photographic memories We used the services of a local photographer recommended by the hotel

and also had a DVD recording. Our photos were all fab.

Magic moments

Further information

My most memorable moment was walking down the aisle and seeing tears in David’s eyes. Also when my dad and step dad came to my room and saw me in my dress for the first time.

Wedding Planner: Sarah-Jayne Hawkins at Tropical Sky, www.tropicalsky.co.uk

Funniest memories? Dave flashing on the beach and skinny-dipping in the pool after most the guests and family had retired to bed! You can’t print those photos though!

Photographer: Laurent Alamagny / Samui Vision Photos (photo@samuivision.com)

On budget?

The whole wedding cost us £12,000, which was over budget as I just kept spending and wanting more!

The honeymoon We had five days alone when everyone had left – two days in Chiang Mai and three more days when we returned in Koh Samui.

We went to Chiang Mai alone without our son and went elephant trekking through the river and to tiger kingdom where you can have photos in cages with tigers – it was an 60 wwwBridesAbroad.tv

amazing experience! We both love the Thai people, they are so friendly and would do anything for you.

Venue: Amari Palm Reef Resort, Koh Samui.

Book it!

Stay three nights in Bangkok to complete the wedding legalities then 14 nights at the 4*Amari Palm Reef Resort, superior room, B&B with scheduled flights plus the Classic Wedding package including all the legalities in Bangkok, Traditional Long Drum procession, 40 professional photographs and album, Traditional Water Blessing ceremony, professional hair and make-up artist for the bride, wedding cake and floral decoration of the ceremony venue. From £6559 per couple. Call: 08443329351. www.tropicalsky.co.uk/ weddings-abroad

Steal Traci’s Style

Pearl starlight set, Ivory & Co, £45 www.crystalfrost.co.uk

Elephant pendant, £10 www.accessorize.co.uk

Traci proves that you don’t have to play down your look for a beach wedding – you can still be a beautiful belle of the ball!

Seychelles bracelet

by Ivory & Co, £35 www.crystalfrost.co.uk

Pink butterfly candles www.dotcomgifts.com

Pink tied peonies, £25 www.debenhams.com

Flower hair clips www.monsoon.co.uk

Heart cushion, £28 www.debenhams.com

New England veil

by Ivory & Co www.crystalfrost.co.uk

Shoes, style Annette, £320 www.freyarose.co.uk Dress by Trudy Lee, style TL59604 www.trudylee.co.uk www.BridesAbroad.tv 61

Greek Chic

Looking for a picture-perfect wedding location?

Alan Benstock discovers one of Greece’s hidden gems

“Happiness”, Aristotle said “is the settling of the soul into it’s most appropriate spot”.

Whilst standing on the beach on the day of your wedding at the Elkies All Senses Hotel and Resort, it is quite possible to believe you have found that spot, and with it true happiness!

Situated in the perfect location overlooking the bay of Vourvourou in the quiet peninsula of Sithonia, Halkidiki, Ekies All Senses Hotel and Resort sits in front of an almost private beach, surrounded by some of the most beautiful beaches of Sithonia, which are perfect for sunworshipers and dream honeymoons. The boutique hotel is a place of purity and serenity, where crisp green landscapes connect with azure seascapes.

The Greek philosopher Aristotle was born in the nearby ancient city of Stageira. During his life, he journeyed extensively around the Aegean Sea and was able to appreciate the allure of the region.

Likewise, Alexandra Efstathiadou, owner of the Elkies All Senses, grew up with the same adoration of this stunning coastline, having spent every summer as a child visiting the bay. When she grew up, she decided to buy the property where she stayed and renovate it to create a chic, contemporary design hotel, which is unique and minimalistic.

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Unique design

Alexandra set out to create natural beauty in the hotel’s architecture and design, using locally sourced materials and driven by inspiration from the Greek author and playwright Kambanelis and his belief that “In life you have five senses, in your dreams you have a hundred”.

The hotel has an inside-outside feel, and is the perfect retreat to just let go and relax. It has been carefully designed to incorporate both traditional Greek elements with the modern design pieces of Arad, Starck, O’Ghery and Castoglioni. It is this sense of simplicity and pureness that creates an ideal venue for weddings.

There are 65 rooms and suites – each is individually styled and furnished with all-natural Coco-Mat collections. All have luxurious bathrooms and each has some individual features such as a private terrace with a Jacuzzi; rain showers; lounge area with fireplace or a special view of the sea, pool or gardens.

Gorgeous Greek weddings Whether you want a traditional Greek wedding or a more individual event, Alexandra and her staff will take every care to ensure your special day is one to remember. Celebrate in style

with friends and loved ones, and let Ekies on-site wedding coordinator and team take care of all the details to ensure your wedding is perfect – from helping with the wedding paperwork, flower arrangements and menus to the music and bride’s makeup. Wedding packages can be arranged to meet individual requirements.

A sumptuous barbeque at Kuzinam, the main restaurant, and the Koutali grill, located next to the beach with traditional Greek salads and deserts are the usual wedding fare. Head chef Andrea Boulgari’s creative modern Greek cuisine ensures that guests have a wide choice of exciting and fresh dishes using local produce and recipes. In a twist of local Greek tradition, there are some intriguing dishes specific to the region using rice and semolina, which are used during dances to celebrate the couple’s union and future family life together.

Having its own pontoon means newlyweds can arrive at their wedding breakfast by boat, walking on to the beach through an avenue of small candles, whose flickering orange glow adds to the magic of the occasion. The venue is decorated and lit to create a totally romantic ambience.

Stunning spa Bride and groom can prepare for their special day in the Elkies spa studio – an

open-air pod with natural light, fresh air and the soothing sounds of birds.

The spa studio consists of three private treatment areas with a small exercise gym. Therapists offer a range of rejuvenating facials and massages as well as holistic therapies such as reflexology.

This is a pampering spa, which follows the ‘barefoot luxury’, complete relaxation ethos of the Hotel. Visiting hairdressers, manicurists and stylists can be arranged.

Honeymoon heaven The surrounding landscape, with its rugged coastline and cerulean tepid waters, provide endless activities to fill your first days of married life. There are wineries and honey farms to visit, with hiking and horse riding in the nearby nature reserve.

Ever since the birth of Aristotle, Halidiki is steeped in ancient history and the region has many archaeological sites and historical towns to visit.

Taking a boat trip, whether organised or by hiring a boat for yourself, will give you the opportunity of exploring the island of Diaporos, in the middle of the bay, where you will find the deserted White Beach with sand that feels like talcum powder on your toes when you walk through it. Further round the island is the Blue Lagoon with clear turquoise water.

There are numerous smugglers’ hideaways including one aptly known as ‘The Hidden’.

After a swim in the warm waters of the bay, honeymooners should take time to sit on one of the many pontoons or the edge of the boat with a picnic and a bottle of wine from the nearby Domaine Porto Carras vineyard, and have a long leisurely lunch – it is what the locals do!

Further information Elkies All Senses Resort Vourvourou, Sithonia, Halkidiki T: +30 237 509 1000 (Summer) T: +30 231 096 8778 (Winter) E: info@ekies.gr Airport Thessaloniki – SKG UK Airlines Gatwick : British Airways and Easyjet Manchester: Thomas Cook Luton: Thomson Flight time 3hrs 30 mins approx.

Airport transfer time - 1hr 20 mins Local time GMT + 2 hrs Price Starting from €105 per room per night B&B www.BridesAbroad.tv 63

Royal Caribbean

Vows Afloat Fancy getting married on the world’s largest cruise ship, on a rock climbing wall or a surf simulator or simply at sea in a stunning location? Royal Caribbean International offers Royal Romance, a full-service wedding and vow renewal programme. Now couples can plan their special day – ceremony, reception and honeymoon – all as part of a great cruise holiday.

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®

Royal Romance

Explorer Weddings

Couples can choose to have a wedding onboard a Royal Caribbean International cruise ship, such as Allure of the Seas or Oasis of the Seas – the world’s largest – with a range of onboard ceremonies available. Or choose a land option such as an exotic island ceremony or marrying atop an Alaskan glacier at one of Royal Caribbean International’s sailing destinations.

For those that want something a little different, the Explorer Weddings programme from Royal Caribbean International offers exciting and innovative experiences that combine a cruise with an exotic destination or themed wedding onboard the ship or on land. Customised experiences range from saying “I do” beside Royal Caribbean International’s FlowRider surf simulator to celebrating whilst scuba diving.

In addition to wedding ceremonies, Royal Romance can also arrange for those special touches to make the celebration even more memorable. Flowers, photography, videography, spa treatments, stationary/ favours, entertainment and transportation can all be arranged.

Onboard facilities, such as ice-skating rinks, rock-climbing walls or the ship’s golf course; or land-based locations, such as in a rainforest or a vineyard, are thematically decorated for the Explorer Wedding. So, the couple could say their vows on ice skates, or half-way up the climbing wall and the area would be exclusive to the wedding party. Wedding co-ordinators work closely with the couple in order to help customise a wedding or vow renewal, even to develop personalised vows to match the occasion. All transportation is arranged, and priority check-in is provided to the wedding party.

After the wedding ceremony, continue the celebrations with a reception. Choose from hors d’oeuvres and cocktails to a full lunch buffet with bar service, completing your reception with a delicious cake prepared just for the special day.

The bride receives an elegant bouquet and the groom a boutonniére with matching bloom. Explorer Weddings can also feature bespoke music. The ceremony is provided by an officiant and a professional photographer is on hand to capture the occasion, while Champagne and wedding cake are included to toast the union. The couple will also be presented with a keepsake Explorer Weddings marriage certificate. Furthermore, since the wedding is hosted aboard a Royal Caribbean International cruise ship, dining and entertainment are all included for guests continuing on with the cruise.

Further information For more information on Royal Romance please email the Wedding Specialists on royalromance@rccl.com.

For more information and to book call Royal Caribbean International on 0844 493 2061, see www.royalcaribbean.co.uk, or talk to your travel agent. www.BridesAbroad.tv 65

WIN a gorgeous wedding dress!

Wow your guests by winning a fabulously stylish dream dress – perfectly suited for your destination wedding – in our amazing competition Brides Abroad magazine has teamed up with Eternity Bride to give one lucky bride-to-be the chance to look beautifully chic on her wedding day by winning this gorgeous gown from Eternity Bridal’s stunning 2012 wedding dress collection (style number D2135).

Eternity Bride designs wedding dresses for many occasions: weddings in traditional churches, weddings in castles and weddings on the beach – all weddings are catered for. All current Eternity gowns are able to have design changes, whether it is a neckline change, lace-up back instead of a zip or a different length train – all is possible.

The Eternity Bridal collection includes a bridesmaids’ collection, which offers a huge range of choice in over 60 colours.

To see the Eternity Bridal collection in full, simply log on to: www.eternitybridal.com

To enter

Simply answer this question: Which of these applies to getting married. a) Tie your shoe laces b) Tie the knot c) Tie Dye Send your entry on a postcard along with your name, address, contact details, email and date of your wedding to: Eternity Bridal Dress Competition, Kilndene Studios, Lime Kiln Lane, Kirk Deighton, LS22 4EA. Or email your answer and details to us on: terri@worldtitles.co.uk.

Entries must be received by 1st September 2012.

Terms and conditions This prize draw is open to residents of the UK, 18 years or over.

Prize is as stated, a dress from the Eternity Bridal collection, style D2132.

The winner will receive their Eternity Bridal dress by courier.

Any expenses incurred for alterations to the gown are the responsibility of the winner. The prize is non transferable and there is no cash alternative. The prize may take up to 18 weeks from the published closing date to be made available for delivery to the winner dependent on stock availability.

66 wwwBridesAbroad.tv

Planning

Guide

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Weather Permitting

Don’t let your wedding day be a wash out – check the worldwide weather guide for the sunniest beaches, snowiest peaks and perfect temperatures

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Wedding Countdown

Our 12 month wedding checklist to the big day

Pop The Question

Our expert wedding planners answer your most frequently asked questions

Ask The Planner

Lisa Burton of The Bridal Consultant professional wedding planning service shares her wisdom and experience with brides-to-be.

Honeymoon Health Stay fit and healthy overseas.

78 Break It To The Family

Time to break it to the family, but how do you explain to them that it’s just the two of you?

www.BridesAbroad.tv 67

Weather permitting Do you want to sizzle at the hottest wedding of the year or are you a cool bride looking for a seriously chilled location?

Check out our weather guide to help you choose the perfect destination throughout the year

At a glance

Best for May-October

Best for November-April

• Tahiti, Fiji and other Pacific Islands • Mauritius & Seychelles • North America • Hawaii • Canada • Kenya • Tanzania & Zanzibar • Europe • Queensland & Barrier Reef

• Caribbean • Mexico • Thailand • Australia & New Zealand • Maldives • South Africa • Dubai • European ski destinations

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January

February

Hot Spots

Hot Spots

Australia, Brazil, Caribbean, Cuba, Dubai, Hawaii Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Thailand

Australia, Brazil, Caribbean, Cuba, Dubai, Hawaii Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Thailand

Cool & Chilled

Cool & Chilled

Canada, European Alps Iceland, Scandinavia, USA

Canada, European Alps, Iceland, Scandinavia, USA

Something Different

Something Different

Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, India, Morocco New Zealand, Sri Lanka

Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, India, Morocco New Zealand, Sri Lanka

Jungle Safari

Jungle Safari

Belize, Costa Rica, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania

Belize, Costa Rica, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania

Avoid

Avoid

Alaska, Borneo

Alaska,

March

April

Hot Spots

Hot Spots

Australia, Brazil, Caribbean, Cuba, Dubai, French Polynesia Hawaii, Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Thailand

Australia, Brazil, Caribbean, Cuba, Dubai, French Polynesia Greece, Hawaii, Indonesia, Mauritius, Seychelles, Malaysia.

Maldives, Mexico

Cool & Chilled Canada, USA, European Alps, Scandinavia, Iceland

Something Different Argentina, Egypt, India, Morocco, New Zealand, Hong Kong

Jungle Safari

Cool & Chilled European Alps, Scandinavia

Something Different Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, India

Jungle Safari

Belize, Borneo, Botswana, Costa Rica, Kenya, South Africa Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Belize, Zambia

Belize, Borneo, Botswana, Costa Rica, South Africa, Zambia

Avoid

Avoid

Alaska

Alaska, Kenya, Tanzania www.BridesAbroad.tv 69

May

June

Hot Spots

Hot Spots

Brazil, Cyprus, Dubai, Fiji, French Polynesia, Greece, Hawaii Indonesia, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mexico, Seychelles, Spain, Thailand

Cyprus, Fiji, French Polynesia, Greece, Hawaii, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, Mauritius, Seychelles, Spain, USA

Cool & Chilled

Cool & Chilled

Alaska, Iceland

Canada, European Alps, Iceland, Scandinavia, USA

Something Different

Something Different

Cook Islands, Egypt, Hong Kong, France, Ireland, Italy, Morocco, Scandinavia

Alaska, New Zealand

Jungle Safari Belize, Borneo, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia

Avoid Caribbean, Cuba, Kenya, Maldives, Tanzania

Jungle Safari Borneo, Botswana, Tanzania, Zambia

Avoid Caribbean, Cuba, Dubai, Egypt, Maldives

July

August

Hot Spots

Hot Spots

Canada, Cyprus, Fiji, French Polynesia, Greece, Hawaii Indonesia, Malaysia, Mauritius, Seychelles, Spain, USA

Canada, Cyprus, Fiji, French Polynesia, Hawaii, Indonesia, Malaysia, Seychelles, Spain, USA

Cool & Chilled

Cool & Chilled

Alaska, Iceland

Alaska, Iceland

Something Different

Something Different

France, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Peru, Scandinavia, Scotland, Spain

France, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Peru, Scandinavia, Scotland

Jungle Safari

Jungle Safari

Borneo, Botswana, Kenya,

Borneo, Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia

Tanzania, Zambia

Avoid Caribbean, Cuba, Dubai, Egypt 70 www.BridesAbroad.tv

Avoid

Belize, Caribbean, Costa Rica Cuba, Dubai, Egypt

September

October

Hot Spots

Hot Spots

Australia, Brazil, Cyprus, Fiji, French Polynesia, Greece, Hawaii Indonesia, Malaysia, Mauritius, Seychelles, Spain, USA

Australia, Brazil, Cyprus, Dubai, Fiji, French Polynesia, Greece, Hawaii, Malaysia, Mauritius, Seychelles, Spain

Cool & Chilled

Cool & Chilled

Alaska, New Zealand

Canada, USA

Something Different

Something Different

Egypt, France, Hong Kong, Italy, Peru, Sri Lanka, USA

Egypt, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Morocco, Sri Lanka, USA

Jungle Safari

Jungle Safari

Borneo, Botswana, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia

Belize, Borneo, Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania Zambia, South Africa

Avoid

Avoid

Belize, Caribbean, Cuba, Costa Rica

Alaska, Belize, Caribbean, Costa Rica, Cuba

November

December

Hot Spots

Hot Spots

Australia, Brazil, Dubai, French Polynesia, Hawaii, Mauritius, Maldives, Mexico, Thailand

Australia, Brazil, Caribbean, Cuba, Dubai, French Polynesia, Hawaii, Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Thailand

Cool & Chilled

Cool & Chilled

Canada, Scandinavia, USA

Canada, European Alps, Scandinavia, USA

Something Different

Something Different

Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, India, Morocco, New Zealand, Sri Lamka, USA

Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, India, Morocco, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, USA

Jungle Safari

Jungle Safari

Belize, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania

Belize, Costa Rica, Kenya, South Africa,Tanzania

Avoid Alaska, Borneo

Avoid

Alaska, Borneo www.BridesAbroad.tv 71

W edding Countdown

Pic courtesy of Sandals

Don’t be caught out! Set your diary for our month-by-month wedding checklist

12 MONTHS

• Decide on a budget • Fix a date and time • Decide on guest numbers • Research to find your perfect venue!

• Check world weather

11 MONTHS

• Send out save the day cards • Take out wedding insurance and include your wedding dress • Make appointments to try out wedding dresses • Start downloading music if planning a CD for reception • Check availability at resorts and get prices

10 MONTHS

• Book your hotel and wedding package • Order invitations and envelopes as well as place cards • Inform guests of travel plans and give them your tour operator details so they can work out their own arrangements • Set up a honeymoon gift list

72 www.BridesAbroad.tv

• Pick your bridesmaids, ushers and best man • Decide on your dress – allow at least four months for a made-to-measure gown to be delivered

9 MONTHS

• Start thinking about a theme for your wedding • Choose and order your bridesmaids outfits • Discuss with your wedding planners what documents you need • Check your passport is up to date • Arrange your travel insurance

8 MONTHS • If you are having a religious ceremony, discuss readings and choose music for your service • Check whether readings and music are permitted for a civil ceremony

7 MONTHS

• Choose and order favours • Shop for table decorations, confetti and trimmings

• Choose shoes and accessories for you and your bridesmaids

6 MONTHS

• Remind your fiancé to get his and the ushers’ outfits • Choose gifts for your attendants, best man, mum and helpers • Chase up any guests who haven’t responded

5 MONTHS

• Book a consultation with your hairstylist • Start your course of Restylane fillers, permanent hair removal, cosmetic tweaks and slimming treatments

4 MONTHS

• Go shopping for honeymoon clothes • Check whether you need visas or inoculations • Start arrangements for your stag and hen party • Start your diet and fitness campaign

3 MONTHS

• Check that you have received all the

Honeymoon checklist 6 MONTHS • Do your research • Health and safety – check for travel advice and updates at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (fco.gov.org) • Set the honeymoon budget

5 MONTHS • Make your choice early as airline prices can soar for late bookings • Check on visas • Check your passport is up to date

4 MONTHS • Have your jabs • Start health and fitness plan correct documentation, including travel tickets. Check the details carefully for correct names, dates and times of flights • Inform the tour operator of guests who are staying at different hotels – day passes need to be arranged for them • Book a make-up session at a department store and choose your wedding make-up. Make sure it is heat -and-water-resistant if you are going to hot climes • Choose your ‘special wedding perfume’ • Book your pre-wedding hair appointment for cut and colour • Choose a company for a gift list and make your selection

2 MONTHS

• Check that your fiancé has the rings and his wedding clothes • Collect your wedding dress • Book your beauty treatments, including nails, facial, fake tan, waxing, eyebrow shape, false lashes

1 MONTH

• Double check that you have all the original documentation for your wedding • Make sure you have a suitable luggage carrier for your wedding dress for transportation in the hold of the plane • Buy your sun protection, travel-sized products etc • Boost and fine tune your diet and fitness plan • Work out the seating plan for your reception • Discuss final checklist with your wedding planner • Check that your passport, visas, inoculations and insurance are in place

TWO WEEKS • Have your final hair appointment and ask for tips and products. Take photographs to show hairdressers at your destination

• Two days prior to departure have beauty treatments including nails, facial, fake tan, waxing, eyebrow shape, false lashes etc • Order your travel cheques and currency • Have your stag and hen party

On arrival at your resort • Meet the resort’s wedding co-ordinator to check all documentation and set a day, time and location for the ceremony • Choose your flowers, cake and witnesses • Order add-ons such as larger cake, more wine, extra buttonholes, photographer, music and transport to the ceremony • Check that day passes and special permissions for children have been arranged for guests staying at other hotels • Arrange hairstylist, beauty appointments and spa treatments

The day before your wedding • You will have a wedding rehearsal with your wedding co-ordinator • Have a spa massage to relax you for your big day • Have a top-up spray tan if needed

The big day • Have your hair and make-up done at the hotel • Your wedding co-ordinator will check everything else is in place • Once the Marriage Officer arrives you will receive a call to let you know it’s time to say ‘I Do’

3 MONTHS • Choose your honeymoon wardrobe • Book appointments for fillers, permanent hair removal etc.

2 MONTHS • Buy your luggage

1 MONTH • Confirm bookings • Choose your perfume and water and heatproof holiday make-up

2 WEEKS • Order travellers cheques and currency • Check your holiday insurance carefully

1 WEEK • Book a pedicure, have a spray tan and leg and bikini wax.

• Check in online • Check airport transfers

Check your documents!

You will need originals – or copies certified by a notary or solicitor of the following. But do check with your wedding tour operator and/or wedding planner.

• 10 year passport, valid for at least six months • Birth certificates • If you are divorced, a decree absolute • If widowed, a death certificate and previous marriage certificate • An affidavit signed by a solicitor stating no legal objection to the marriage • If you have changed your name by deed poll, ensure it is proof stamped and signed by a solicitor.

Visit fco.gov.uk for further details, and do check with your tour operator and wedding planner before you leave for your destination.

www.BridesAbroad.tv 73

POP the

Question

The facts...

Where can I get married abroad?

Where do you fancy? You name it, and you can probably get married there.

Weddings can be arranged in more than 30 countries around the world, and in many different settings.

How much will it cost?

Tour operator Kuoni is a destination wedding specialist. It says the average price of its destination weddings, including honeymoon, is less than £3,000 – a small cost compared to the average UK wedding! Prices vary considerably for a wedding or vow renewal package; this is paid as a supplement to your holiday package price. Some resorts offer free wedding packages, so bargain hunters should check their options with tour operators.

The legals...

Will our marriage be legally recognised in the UK? Yes. Your wedding will be registered in the country it takes place in and is completely legal under British law, so you don’t need to register your marriage again when you get home.

We asked dedicated wedding planners to give us a selection of their most frequently asked questions...

What are the legal requirements?

They vary from country to country, but in general you must be over 20 years of age and need your British passports, original copies of your birth certificates and documentation regarding any previous marriages, or if you are widowed or divorced.

Some countries have additional costs for legalisation and translation of documents.

If you book through a tour operator, such as Kuoni, Thomas Cook or Turquoise and Sandals, your dedicated wedding team will give you full details at the time of your booking.

Are there residency restrictions in some countries?

Yes, so you need to check residency restrictions with your tour operator or wedding planner. The most difficult countries are Spain (40 days residency), France (40 days) and Australia (one month and one day); however, there are no restrictions in Antigua, Jamaica or Las Vegas.

What name should I travel under?

If you are getting hitched abroad you can’t change the name on your passport until you return home. You must travel in your maiden name and your return airline tickets need to be in the same name as your passport or they will not be valid. Of course you can change your passport to your married name once you are back home in the UK and are in possession of your marriage certificate.

74 www.BridesAbroad.tv

When will I receive my marriage certificate?

It will either be handed to you at the resort or sent via registered post to your home address. Don’t panic if it takes a while to arrive – this is normal, especially if you marry in Jamaica where it can take up to 12 months! If you get married in certain countries, like Mexico and the Dominican Republic it will need to be translated, which will cause extra delay. For more information visit direct.gov.uk and search under passports.

The ceremony...

Can we invite guests to our wedding?

Of course! Some hotels even offer reduced rate weddings for more than four guests.

Remember to order extras for your guests, such as more wine, a larger wedding cake or extra buttonholes. If the wedding couple is staying at an all inclusive resort, they will need to buy one-day passes for guests staying at other hotels, and in adultsonly resorts you will need to ask special permission for children to attend the wedding on a day pass. All this can be organised at the resort by your wedding planner.

When do I meet the resort’s wedding planner?

One to three days after your arrival at your resort. Your wedding planner will sort out the fine details of your wedding, from champagne to the icing on your cake, and check your documentation so that you can relax as the arrangements are done on your behalf. Once the local registrar is happy your paperwork is in order, your wedding planner will give you a date and time for the ceremony and send out invitations to your guests.

Where will our ceremony take place?

The hotel wedding planner will show you the locations to choose from – usually in the gardens of your hotel, or in a decorated wedding pavilion. If you are marrying in Europe you may choose to exchange vows in the local church or town hall, or in Las Vegas, a wedding chapel. The hotel wedding co-ordinator will show you the locations to choose from. It’s unusual to have a ceremony on the beach, but many couples take beach photographs after the ceremony.

Who will be at the ceremony?

Most overseas weddings are civil ceremonies, in the style of registry office services, unless a religious ceremony has been pre-arranged. The ceremony will be conducted by a judge, celebrant, minister or registrar. You will need two to four witnesses, who could be anyone from your wedding guests to people you have met on the beach the previous day. Your wedding planner will be there too, to ensure your day goes without a hitch.

The important bits...

How should I transport my wedding dress?

We recommend wedding outfits should be packed in a hard suitcase or strong box, as they will be placed in the hold of the plane.

It might be an idea to contact your airline for more information. Generally, there is no extra baggage allowance for wedding outfits. You can also take out extra insurance to cover the transportation of your dress.

Can I choose my flowers?

Absolutely! At the resort, your wedding planner will show you photos of bouquets for you to make a selection. Your wedding bouquet and his buttonhole are included in your wedding package, but extra flowers and buttonholes can be ordered for guests and bridesmaids.

What about the music?

You can request whatever music you prefer and it will be arranged for you – from a DJ playing your favourite songs to calypso bands. If you prefer you can pack a CD with your chosen musical selection, which can be played at your wedding.

Will I have a cake?

A wedding cake is included in wedding packages; this is usually a sponge cake with white icing. You can add your own decorations, and even arrange for an upgraded cake. Sandals Resorts offer a choice of themed weddings from the Martha Stewart collection, which feature colour co-ordinated cakes to match the chosen wedding palette.

Who will take care of my hair and make-up?

Every bride wants to look her best and fortunately many hotels have hair and beauty services with make-up artists on-hand. Even if they don’t, your wedding planner can arrange for experts to come to the hotel.

Can I arrange for a good wedding photographer?

Your wedding planner will show you examples of local photographers’ work at the resort so that you can choose the style that suits you best. Photographer and DVD are usually at extra cost; they are rarely included in your wedding package.

What about the wedding dinner?

If you have a group of guests at your wedding, a gala dinner is usually arranged as part of your wedding package. If it’s just the two of you, your wedding planner will arrange a candlelit dinner for two in a romantic location.

Can we leave our guests behind for a honeymoon on our own?

Absolutely. Simply ask your guests to stay at a different hotel close by, or transfer to another hotel after the ceremony.

And finally...

How can I find out more?

Speak to Brides Abroad Travel Team on: 0870 774 8480

www.BridesAbroad.tv 75

Ask the planners!

We asked Lisa Burton of The Bridal Consultant wedding planning service to answer your burning questions on planning a wedding abroad.

Worried about flying I’d like to get married abroad but really don’t like flying, I’ll fly if I have to but then I’m worried that I’ll be thinking more about the flight than the big day! Dawn, Isle of Skye

Hi Dawn I completely understand. I suffer with vertigo, but luckily it doesn’t affect me flying!

Have you considered taking a cruise from Southampton down to Greece? We have lots of couples do this in the summer months.

As there is no minimum residency period in Greece, you can literally turn up for the wedding and then sail away later that day!

If you use an independent planner, all the paperwork and planning is arranged before you arrive, so you don’t have to worry about doing anything apart from arriving and getting married! You could even get married aboard your cruise ship – many cruise companies offer wedding packages, including Royal Caribbean (www.royalromance@rccl.com) and Celebrity Cruises (www.celebritycruises. co.uk)

Catholic wedding abroad

European countries that offer legally binding weddings are Italy, Greece and Spain. Some countries like Italy can be complicated as each church has their own specific requirements. However, the usual procedure is to contact the church of your choice to find out if it’s possible to marry there (usually your planner will do this for you). If they say yes, reserve a date allowing at least six months to process the paperwork and then contact the priest at your practising church in the UK to make plans for your ‘marriage preparation course’, which can take a few months to complete. The paperwork for the wedding is completed by you and your priest in the UK and then sent, via the Catholic Church, to the priest at your destination. The other thing to consider is the language. We have a priest in Greece who conducts the ceremony in English, but this is not the case in all churches so you may need a translator. Alternatively, if your budget allows, you could ask permission to take your own priest with you to perform the ceremony, which is an option for islands such as Santorini in Greece that doesn’t currently have a practicing priest.

holiday, others prefer to have time alone.

Work with a travel agent that specialises in group bookings, explain your concerns and ask if they can speak to each guest and help them find the right accommodation (which is not the same hotel as yours). It helps if the travel agent has good local knowledge and can advise on how near/far the hotels are.

Unfortunately there will always be a couple of guests that don’t honour your request or accidently book the same hotel. To avoid this, you can plan to spend a few days of the week of the wedding in one hotel and then change to another hotel in a different part of the island or a different destination for the second week. Why not hire a private villa and then you can be assured that if you have to share your space during the first week (which can actually be lots of fun) you have the second week to look forward to!

The other option is to have a short holiday with your wedding and then have a ‘minimoon’ or full honeymoon later in the year.

It’s something to look forward to after the wedding is over and you can guarantee you’ll be alone!

Contact Lisa:

I’d like to get arrange a Catholic wedding abroad in 2013. I’ve heard the paperwork is quite complicated, not all destinations offer a legal Catholic ceremony and you have to have a civil wedding beforehand, which I don’t really want to do. Can you advise on the best locations so I can start researching venues and making plans? I don’t want to travel too far – about four hours at the most.

Mary, Liverpool

Honeymoon Worries

Do you have any questions for Lisa Burton of The Bridal Consultant?

We’re getting married abroad next year in Portugal and I have 55 people coming with me. Although I’m delighted that they are joining us, I don’t want anyone staying in our hotel. This is, after all, our honeymoon and I don’t want to be spending every minute of it with our guests! Any tips on how I can discreetly tell them? Chloe, Southampton

Email your questions to: lisaburton@thebridalconsultant.co.uk

Hi Mary

Hi Chloe

Catholic weddings are more complicated than a civil wedding due to the paperwork.

We get asked this a lot! While some couples love to be with their guests on a big family

76 www.BridesAbroad.tv

The Bridal Consultant is a full wedding planning service that specialises in exclusive destination weddings in New York, Costa Blanca (Spain), Cyprus, Santorini and Zakynthos (Greece). www.thebridalconsultant.co.uk

10 Travel Tips for Honeymoon

The last thing anyone wants on his or her honeymoon is to get ill. However, a quick chat with your pharmacist before you travel overseas can help avoid some of the most common illnesses that can spoil your destination wedding and honeymoons.

1

Stomach bugs

People often suffer with diarrhoea and sickness abroad because they have consumed contaminated food or water. Follow the simple rule: ‘cook it, boil it, peel it or leave it’. Stomach upsets can also be caused by bad hygiene, so make sure that you wash your hands thoroughly.

TIP: Take some re-hydration sachets with you – these will stop you from getting dehydrated and ask your pharmacist about anti-diarrhoea pills.

2

Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot, which forms in the body’s deep veins, particularly in the lower legs, usually after a person has been inactive for a while – such as during long-haul flights. You can reduce your chances of getting DVD when travelling by doing leg exercises every half hour or try to walk around. Wear loose clothing and keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

TIP: Invest in some compression socks and try Holland & Barrett’s Pycnogenol pine bark extract capsules. (£20.99 for 20)

3

Plan Ahead

If you take regular medicine, make sure you have enough for your honeymoon. Plan your medicine requirements ahead and when abroad keep your medicine in a safe and secure place.

TIP: Ask your pharmacist about repeat dispensing – a free service which allows you to pick up your medicine straight from your chemist rather than visiting your GP.

4

Over the counter medicines Try to stock up on holiday essentials like anti-sickness remedies, plasters and painkillers before you go away.

TIP: There are restrictions on taking certain medicines abroad, e.g. it is illegal to take the painkiller Codeine into the UAE or Greece.

Ask your pharmacist for more advice.

5

Pack carefully

There are new regulations on what you’re allowed to take as hand luggage, so check with your airline before travelling to avoid nasty surprises, as prescription medicines are also subject to verification. If you need to take medicine with you, let your airline know as soon as possible.

Your GP will need to give you documentation to take with you, which identifies your medicine.

TIP: Taking a translation of the documents will also help avoid any problems on the return flight.

6

Travel sickness

Ask your pharmacist for free advice on remedies and tips on preventing travel sickness, such as ensuring there is good ventilation and looking out of the window rather then reading books during car journeys.

TIP: Alcohol should be avoided while taking travel sickness tablets and the tablets may interact with other medicines you are taking, so ask your pharmacist for advice.

Ginger can reduce symptoms of motion sickness. Try Holland & Barrett’s Ginger Root Capsules (£7.45 for 100)

7

Sunburn

Make sure that you have the correct sunscreen – adults are recommended to wear at least SPF15. Apply sunscreen liberally and reapply every couple of hours throughout the day and try to stay in the shade during the midday sun. If you do get sunburn, cover the area immediately to prevent further damage. A cool shower and applying After Sun can also help.

TIP: Don’t be fooled by a cloudy sky! Just because you cannot see the sun, doesn’t mean that it won’t be causing damage to the skin.

8

Don’t forget anti-malarials

It only takes one bite to become infected with malaria, so make sure you take malaria prevention seriously. Ask your pharmacist which type of anti-malarial is most suitable for your particular needs.

TIP: Unfortunately no anti-malarial tablets and travel vaccines are 100% effective so it is essential to use other bite-avoidance

precautions such as mosquito nets over your bed, skin repellents and plug-in vaporisers.

9

Time travelling

If you are travelling across different time zones, you may need to alter the way you take any regular medicines. e.g. a progesterone-only birth control pill may have a three-hour window before the dose is classed as being missed, so you should either continue to take your pill using UK time or gradually adjust by no more than three hours at a time so it fits in with your honeymoon time zone. If in doubt, check with your pharmacist.

TIP:Traveling across time zones can also cause jet lag. Lessen the effects by making sure that you’re hydrated and avoiding alcohol and caffeine, which can disturb sleep.

10

Know your limits

Overeating and drinking too much can cause a whole range of symptoms, including heartburn, indigestion, nausea and constipation. Try not to lie down right after you’ve had a meal and over-the-counter painkillers can help hangovers. Paracetamolbased remedies are usually preferable as aspirin may further irritate the stomach.

TIP: Try to keep within the recommended alcohol limit (men 3-4 units per day and women 2-3). Eat lots of carbohydrates, as this will slow down the body’s absorption of alcohol. Drink plenty of water before bed.

Aid your hangover with Holland & Barrett’s Milk Thistle (£21.99 for 200 capsules)

Honeymoon health kit Eye Drops: helps to replenish moisture after the humidity of planes, especially if you wear contact lenses.

Painkillers: can be used to treat back pain and headaches.

Ear Drops: Can help to treat symptoms of ear infections – especially after using swimming pools Cuts and Bruises kit: Take a good supply of plasters, wound dressings and antiseptic creams for minor scrapes and falls. *Advice from Leyla Hannbeck, Head of Information Services at the National Pharmacy Association. For more information visit www.askyourpharmacist.co.uk

www.BridesAbroad.tv 77

just the

twoof us How to tell your friends and family you’re getting married abroad without them

2

Make sure you’re sure

“Ensure you are both planning your simple wedding for all the right reasons, and know what those reasons are”, says expert wedding planner, Sarah Haywood (www.sarahhaywood.com), author of the Wedding Bible Planner (£35, The Wedding Bible Company Ltd). This will help you be confident, and firm in the face of questions or disagreements. “Do you simply prefer something low key, low cost and private and that fits with who you are, for example?

If that is your explanation you will, in all likelihood, be able to rationally explain your reasons to close family and friends.”

Perhaps you simply want to get married in a place where you had a special holiday together, got engaged, first said “I love you”, or want to make the most of the budget you’ve got to create a day that feels special without getting you or your family into debt.

3

Choose the right way to make the announcement

“It’s always best face-to-face with people you are genuinely close to”, says Gael Lindenfield. “But a handwritten letter is second best if this is not possible.

However, if you know you’re likely to meet anger, you could send a letter first, and within the letter suggest a phonecall or face-to-face conversation later, to give both parties a chance to calm down and prepare.

Email or Facebook announcements are only appropriate for less close friendships and distant relatives where hurtful emotions are unlikely to arise.”

If your idea of the perfect wedding is just the two of you together, with no big fuss, no big party, just the romance and commitment of promising to spend the rest of your lives together, then you need to do the groundwork with friends and family first. “However strong your relationships are, close family and friends will feel hurt and rejected to some degree, unless they are saints!” says psychotherapist and assertive communication specialist, Gael Lindenfield (www.gael-lindenfield. com), author of 101 Morale Boosters (Piatkus, £8.99). So how do you minimize the potential for hurt feelings, and maximize the chances of those closest to you accepting and supporting your decision?

78 wwwBridesAbroad.tv

1

Be prepared to face emotional responses

This will stop you getting ambushed by a strong reaction and losing your own composure. “Some people respond with anger”, says Gael, “especially if this has been an event they have been looking forward to and may even have saved up for.” In some cultures, weddings are ways of displaying wealth, success and standing in the community. Be aware that religious views can also generate anger – if this kind of wedding is seen as disrespectful to the deity or religious community. Some siblings or friends may even be envious and react sarcastically, especially if they would love to have taken this option themselves but didn’t have the choice or courage.

“Making your announcement in a calm, sensitive, rational way and being openminded about the reaction is key”, says Sarah Haywood. “Only in extreme cases would I ever suggest making the announcement after you’ve already got married.”

4

Be prepared for questions

It’s highly unlikely that someone won’t ask questions and even say: “Would you marry here if we gave you some money towards it?” You need to find a way to answer their questions so they feel you’re listening, but to remain firm and true to yourselves as well. “Often people just want to be heard and if they feel they have been will be more likely to support your

decision”, says Sarah Haywood. “But don’t try to justify your decision, as this smacks of excuse”, says psychotherapist Jules McClean (www.julesmccleancounselling. co.uk). “You need to prepare for this and be receptive to people’s feelings without being put on he back foot. Be assertive and confident in your reasoning”.

Vow not to give detailed explanations and certainly no lies. It’s best to simply repeat a simple statement of your decision with words such as: “After a lot of thought and discussion, we have decided that we are going to get married in a simple ceremony, just the two of us. I hope you will appreciate that, however strange or even selfish this may sound, it is really what we want.” Avoid phrases such as “would like to” or “are thinking of” which suggests that you are open to persuasion.

5

Have some calming phrases to hand

Don’t get flustered and rise to any negative emotions or upset. Use phrases you’ve thought about in advance to diffuse any tense situations.

Gael Lindenfield suggests the following: “I can understand that you may find our decision difficult to understand at first, but I am trusting that when you have had time to think about it you will realize that it is not in any way a reflection of our love/esteem etc. for you or anyone else, it simply is that it is the way we would prefer to get married. If we had decided to have a more traditional wedding, you would have been a special guest.” If you are still confronted by an emotional outburst, you probably need to add: “I think it is best if we talk about this later when we have both had time to calm down. We are not getting anywhere talking right now. It is just upsetting for us both.”

6 Drop a few hints A big part of planning any wedding is about managing expectations. It is important to prepare anyone who may feel they have a vested interest in the day, that a private destination wedding is a possibility quite early on: so parents, siblings, close friends and especially children and/or future step-children can get used to the idea and it won’t be as much of a surprise when you announce it.

7

Consider compromises VERY carefully

If your friends and family react well and you feel they support you, it could be a good idea to offer them ways to get involved. Options could include having the wedding filmed on a webcam in real time, having a celebratory dinner for close friends and family when you get home (where you could even wear your dress and have photos taken), or going on a mum and daughter meal or spa day treat before you go. You could even ask your dad to write you the speech in a letter for you to open on the day. However, you need to judge these kinds of suggestions very carefully if you are not sure of what the reaction will be. It’s worth bearing in mind that webcams and letters generally belong in the sphere of those guests who can’t make a wedding, not guests who have not been invited, so you need to judge carefully and sensitively before suggesting something like this as it may be felt as an insult rather than an offer of compromise. Sometimes the more you try to involve people with the event you are excluding them from, the more likelihood there is of creating ill feeling.

“ A celebratory meal could be a great way to help everyone feel loved and involved.”

If you have a celebration such as a meal or party before or after the ceremony, be sensitive to the fact that, for some, seeing you in your wedding dress, and watching the video of the event would be like rubbing salt into the wound. Keep the private part low-key and involve them in the part you are prepared to share, but make it feel like something unique you’ve organized with them in mind – don’t try to make it feel like the wedding. “You should also consider the potential stress of having a pre-orpost wedding abroad party if the reason you’re going away in the first place is due to guests or family issues,” says Jules McClean. “If that is the case, it could be better for you to have the courage of your convictions and simply go ahead with a ceremony just for the two of you. But if your reasons are solid and accepted by your friends and family, a celebratory meal could be a great way to help everyone feel loved and involved.”

8 Consider your future relationships Although you may be pleasantly surprised by the reaction of friends and family to your decision to get married with just the two of you, be prepared for some relationships to change, weaken or break as a result of your decision. “This is a risk you must be prepared to take”, says Gael Lindenfield.

“Nobody can ever predict exactly how people will react. If you’re prepared for relationships to shift and change, you’ll be less likely to waver when you announce your plans and someone gets upset or emotional.” However, on a brighter note, the chances are that once people get over the initial disappointment, they will come around and understand the reasons for your decision and respect your wishes.

9

Handle best friends, best men and bridesmaids with care!

If you were invited to friends’ weddings, or were asked to be a bridesmaid, or did a reading, be aware that your friends may feel put out that the honour bestowed on you is not being reciprocated. “There will be a level of resentment as people do tend to believe that if you do something it should be reciprocated”, says Jules McClean.

“Taking your friend out for a meal or a girly day out is a good idea to make her feel she’s still special, and if you want to let her into the real reasons behind your decision, such as family issues, money etc. then do so. She will immediately feel included and it will boost the bonds of your friendship.

I would say don’t ask them to write you a letter or donate something borrowed for the day unless you’re 100 per cent sure of their feelings, as this could just reinforce the fact that they won’t be there in person. For a Best Man your partner could restore a sense of the code of honour by organizing a boys’ weekend away. In both cases, you could even buy the traditional thank you gift for the key friend, to say thanks for all their support in helping you get to this stage in your life.” Then you can have the wedding you want with the support of the people who are important to you.

www.BridesAbroad.tv 79

Honeymoons

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Honeymoon in Phuket

Five star luxury at Phuket’s stunning Four Seasons resort.

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From South East Asia with love

International travel writer, James Earl enjoys an eyeopening honeymoon with a difference.

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Fabulous Fiji

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Jane and Melissa share their dream honeymoon in the South Pacific.

Lorraine Kelly in Bali

TV presenter Lorraine Kelly heads to the Far East for a magical spa break with husband, Steve.

100 Enchanting France

Discover a romantic side to the south of France with a tour of Provence and Languedoc.

103 Honeymoon Offers www.BridesAbroad.tv 81

Advertising Feature

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui

If you are looking for a stunning destination resort to host your wedding in Thailand, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui is the perfect choice.

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Advertising Feature

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ffering indulgent luxury, impeccable service, a distinctive design and a calm serenity, this gorgeous retreat adds splendid scenery with beautiful sea views for a magical wedding ceremony and a breathtaking backdrop for your wedding photos.

Enjoying a privileged location on the northwest tip of the island, Four Seasons is an exotic retreat nestling in the hillside in a natural amphitheatre overlooking Laem Yai Bay, Koh Phangan and the mystical Gulf of Thailand, with spectacular panoramic vistas across a private beach to the surrounding islands beyond. The resort offers understated elegance and style and a haven where guests may do as much or as little as they like.

You can experience island perfection in your private hillside villa, shaded by coconut groves and overlooking the ocean.

Accommodation is offered in a choice of 60 villas and 14 residences designed for indoor-outdoor living. Each has a private infinity-edge pool, and thatch-roofed al fresco living area. Whether you take a One-Bedroom Villa or Residence Villa, all offer the ultimate in elegant seclusion with heavenly sea views – the perfect romantic retreat for honeymooners!

Wedded Bliss

Group bookings and extras

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui offers couples a choice of exquisite wedding packages to suit individual tastes and requirements.

The Resort can host weddings of up to 60 guests and all members of the party are required to stay at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui.

Group rates are available for wedding parties with a minimum of 10 villas for a two-night stay.

East Meets West Package For a truly exotic wedding, get married in traditional Thai-style with a Buddhist religious ceremony. Price £2,000 + government taxes and service charge. Package includes: Pre-wedding pampering: A 90-minute spa treatment (Siam Fusion or Coconut Scrub & Herbal Wrap) plus manicure and pedicure for the bride and groom.

During the ceremony: Floral decoration at the venue; flower tray for the wedding rings; wedding procession with traditional Thai offerings for an auspicious marriage; drum parade; monks’ blessing; Water Blessing Ceremony; live Thai music; gift offering for the monks.

Additional flower decoration at the wedding ceremony, entertainment with Thai or Western Band; professional photographer; make-up artist and hair stylist including a free trial prior to the wedding day; traditional Thai hot air lantern ‘khom loys’; dinner menu and wedding cake can all be added onto the wedding packages at extra cost. The Resort’s wedding coordinator will take care of all the details for you.

Further information Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui www.fourseasons.com/kohsamui

After the ceremony: Romantic dinner in your villa or in the private cove on the beach; one bottle of Champagne; rose petal pathway in your villa.

Island Wedding Package Price £2,000 + government taxes and service charge. Package includes: Pre-wedding pampering: A choice of 90-minute spa treatment (Siam Fusion or Coconut Scrub and Body Wrap) plus manicure and pedicure for the bride and groom.

During the ceremony: Floral decoration at the venue; bridal bouquet; corsage for the groom; ceremonial Wedding Celebrant; acoustic guitar duo; lighting and candles at the venue.

After the ceremony: Romantic dinner in your villa or in the private cove on the beach; one bottle of Champagne; rose petal pathway in your villa. www.BridesAbroad.tv 83

From

South East Asia with love!

International travel writer, James Earl, shares his wondrous eye-opening honeymoon with a difference…

“That’ll be interesting” was the comment most frequently given by those who we told where we were spending our honeymoon. I can only imagine that this was because South East Asia is an unknown to most people, especially from a honeymoon perspective.

South East Asia is a must. A haven of idyllic beaches, busy bustling cities and a service from every hotel, shop and restaurant so professional and caring, that you leave thinking that the western culture could really do with learning from these magnificent people.

Flights were reasonably priced, with Singapore Airlines offering the best deals, whilst also flying throughout the continent. The contrast and diversity of countries in this area means that you can stay in some of the most glamorous and sophisticated places, as well as experiencing some of the most outlandish cultures you’re likely to see.

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Singapore After a 12-hour flight from Heathrow, we landed in Singapore.

This clean cut, modern hub was everything I had in mind and more. You’ll discover a brew of Chinese, Malay, Indian and Western cultures, and a social scene that is vibrant and exciting. The city is fresh and oozes class, making it worthwhile to spend a little more money on your first stop, as here you will experience true luxury.

Singapore is all about fine dining, shopping and socialising – a great start for anyone’s honeymoon, but only a couple of days here is needed to get a good flavour of the country.

We arrived at The Fullerton Bay Hotel, situated on the sparkling Marina Bay waterfront. The hotel offers luxurious hospitality and breathtaking rooms, featuring spectacular views of the Marina Bay and the famous Singapore skyline.

The rooftop pool and exquisite bar also have stunning views of the skyline, with an array of cocktails to sip throughout the night amongst Singapore’s fashionistas.

The hotel has an instant luxurious feel to it as soon as you arrive

at the grand entrance. We were immediately greeted by the staff that seemed genuinely excited by our visit and our luggage was whisked away to our room.

All guest rooms have balconies overlooking the marina. With the hotel only having opened last year, this elegant space is full of modern technology and glamour, with a fully glass-fronted bathroom and a giant bath equipped with a TV built into the wall. If you’re looking for extra luxury, then you could always push the boat out and opt for the room with your own personal Jacuzzi, which sits nicely at the end of the balcony so you can relax in style and enjoy the views.

The Swissotel Stamford is the tallest hotel in South East Asia and also offers spectacular views. This hotel enjoys a great location over the City Hall MRT and Raffles City Mall, and it also shares many of its facilities, including swimming pools and restaurants. In its Equinox bar you can see almost the entire island and beyond. More of a business hotel, the lobby is vibrant and buzzing with a variety of entertainment and events taking place all at one time

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Vietnam Next stop Vietnam. A romantic hideaway with tropical sandy beaches, ancient history and world heritage awaits you if you decide to honeymoon here. This is an exotic destination that offers everything, whatever your budget.

This vast land is travelled easiest via the many budget airline operators. However, for those wishing for the true traveller’s experience, overnight trains and buses frequently run from the popular towns and cities all over the country – and will cost you pennies.

Hanoi A mass of motorbikes swarms through the tangled web of streets in this northern city, a cauldron of commerce in Vietnam’s capital. Locals sip coffee and bia hoi (beer) by the famous Hoam Kiem lake during the day.

At night, the bold and beautiful dine at designer restaurants and frequent the trendy bars that have emerged over recent times.

Accommodation in Hanoi is cheap. You can find the world-renowned hotels such as the Hyatt and Hilton, but from around £30 a night you can stay in excellent three or four-star accommodation.

Halong Bay Majestic and mysterious, words alone cannot do justice to the natural wonder that is Halong Bay. A four-hour drive from Hanoi, you will see 3,000 or more incredible islands rising from the waters of the Gulf of Tonkin which gives a vision of breathtaking beauty.

We chose to do this trip in a day, but many opt for a two-day cruise, with a stay on one of the many Junk boats, making the experience extra special. Again, this can be done cheaply, with a day trip from £15 per person including lunch and transfers.

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Eating out is equally mind-bogglingly inexpensive. Green Tangerine, in the city’s old quarter, is one of the top French restaurants, yet still a three-course meal with wine for two comes in at about £35.

Hoi an Our next destination was Hoi an, full of charm and history, having largely escaped the destruction of successive wars. It is a tourist town – with hotels, restaurants, bars, tailors and souvenir shops dominating the old centre. Despite this, I think this was our favourite area of the country, and for true five-star luxury, you can look no further than the Nam Hai. The Nam Hai is a designer hotel with views from reception of an avenue of swimming pools and reflecting ponds tumbling down to the sea. Restaurants and bars overlook the pools and offer top cuisine. The hotel offers a private dining experience on the beach, with chefs and waiters at your disposal as you gaze out to sea under the starry night sky.

Some villas have their own pools, all of which open onto the beach.

The rooms are seductive, with huge bathrooms which have his and her’s sinks. At night, the room is transformed into a romantic haven with curtains drawn around your bed and candles lit throughout the room. You’ll find it hard to prise yourself away from the hotel to hop on the short complimentary shuttle ride into Hoi an.

The hotel’s spa is acclaimed, and for good reason. The treatment rooms give the illusion that they are floating on the vast lake, which creates the ultimate relaxation experience.

Nha Trang Nha Trang has a split personality. One takes the form of a smaller Danang – a bustling Vietnamese city humming with commerce – the other is the fact that it’s blessed with a beautiful beach where you will find serenity.

We chose to take some time away from city life at the Six Senses at Ninh Van Bay, a 30-minute drive from Nha Trang, which is only accessible by boat and offers a delightful private beach and a mountainous landscape covered in jungle.

Whisked off to our beach villa with private pool, our room’s idyllic setting took our breath away. A hop and a skip and you’re on the beach, with snorkelling on the doorstep as well as a host of other activities on hand in this completely private island retreat.

This eco-friendly resort has constructed its restaurant and bar on wooden stilts, a stroll away from your room along the beach or, if you’re feeling fit, you can make use of the personal bikes parked outside your accommodation. This is the perfect setting for honeymooners with private boat trips available and a fine dining restaurant to die for.

If the city is more your thing then the Evason Mandara on the mainland is the perfect escape for honeymooners. It is the only accommodation in Nha Trang with immediate access to the beach – all other hotels have a busy road in front them.

Ho Chi Minh Fasten your seatbelts as Ho Chi Minh City is crazy – and we’re not just talking about the motorbikes that fly through the streets. Saigon, as it’s known to all but city officials, is Vietnam at its most dizzying, a city of commerce and culture that has driven the whole country forward with its limitless energy. Get lost in the markets and lengthy roads and soak up the kind of culture that you will not experience anywhere else in the world.

We stayed at The New World Hotel Saigon, which is in a great location right in the central district with some good amenities, including a pool – not something you find in many of the city hotels. It is a fantastic base, as you should spend as much time as you can in the streets of Ho Chi Minh. This hotel is well within walking distance to the colourful Ben Thanh Market and many landmarks, museums and cultural centres.

Our trip to the Chu Chi tunnels was a moving experience, as well as the war museum.

Ho Chi Minh is the city where you will learn most about the effects of the war – you’ll find yourself captivated by the history of it all, as well as trying your hand at scurrying through the underground network of tunnels used by the Viet cong to defeat the Americans. www.BridesAbroad.tv 87

Eastern Bali

We travelled to Eastern Bali to experience something different. We had heard that the South was extremely touristy, popular with backpackers and party-goers. So, for the true Bali experience we started at the Alila Manggis. This oceanfronted retreat is surrounded by coconut groves, and boasts an award-winning cookery school, a beautiful natural spa and some wonderful snorkelling opportunities along the unspoilt East Bali coast. The hotel offers comfortable and affordable accommodation with all the amenities you need to soak up the sun.

On our last night, we decided to go all out to experience that five-star feeling. The boutique resort of Amankila is a meshwork of walkways that link its 34 villas to the restaurant, pool terrace and the day-bed pavilions that make up this little escapist bubble on Bali’s eastern coast. This haven is designed for you to get that private feeling, yet with everything you need to hand.

Our room had the most stunning view of our entire trip. The villa, with infinity pool, looked out on the ocean from a few hundred metres up, meaning we could see for miles around.

From the reception, restaurant and pretty much everywhere, you can see right down to the sparkling waters of the Lombok. A huge infinity pool, the centrepiece of Amankila’s Beach Club, looks extremely inviting, and there are an array of facilities which you can use on the private beach, a short walk down from the hilltop resort.

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James’Verdict If you want something different from your honeymoon then look no further than South East Asia. I can’t pick a favourite area, as they are all incredible in their own different way. The only thing I can say is that my wife and I have an array of memories from our exciting, adventurous honeymoon – something that you wouldn’t get lying on a beach for two weeks.

Don’t worry about your budget, once you have bought your flights then you have a variety of options. You’ll spend less then anywhere you will go in Europe or the typical honeymoon resorts – and you can always splash out on a few nights of luxury.

If you’re considering going then you must, if you’re not then you definitely should.

Do what we did and travel around, experience the culture, the beauty and people will welcome you with open arms everywhere you go – a truly perfect honeymoon!

Fabulous

Fiji

James & Melissa’s honeymoon in paradise

Where did you get married?

J

ames Schwier and Melissa Price now live in Sydney, Australia.

However the couple first met at work in London when Melissa, a graphic designer, was freelancing at the magazine James worked at as a sub editor.

Romance was definitely in the air when James took Melissa to the Hunter valley wine region in NSW for a birthday weekend and popped that all important question…

How did he propose?

We went out to dinner on the Saturday night for my birthday in Australia’s beautiful wine region. When we got back to where we were staying, James asked me to come out onto the balcony, which looked out over the vineyards, and then got down on one knee and asked me to marry him!

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We had a wonderful wedding at a place called Athol Hall in Mosman, Sydney, which is a beautiful spot overlooking the water with views across the harbour to the bridge. The hall was originally built as an officers’ dance hall in the 1880s.

Best memories of your wedding day?

The whole day! I know that sounds like a cop out, but everything couldn’t have gone better – the weather was good, the venue was perfect, everything looked amazing, everyone enjoyed themselves, even James’s speech got a few laughs!

wedding, as all of James’s family were over from the UK, and then we headed off. We decided to stay a few nights at different resorts to really get a feel of the island and what it had to offer.

What made you choose Fiji for your honeymoon?

What were your first impressions of the resorts?

It’s somewhere that we had always wanted to go and everyone we know who has been there has only ever had good things to say about the country and its people.

The Outrigger on the Lagoon was lovely, our room had a beautiful view out over the whole resort, including the pool, the beach and the ocean. Everyone at the hotel made to feel welcome as soon as we arrived.

We stayed in Sydney for five days after the

Any spa pampering?

Outrigger – a super-relaxing couples massage at the stunning hilltop Bebe Spa; Chi, the spa Shangri-La – we indulged in the ultimate “Dusk till Dawn” treatment including, soak, scrub, steam, massage and facial, dinner and breakfast, all in a purpose-built beachside bure; Tadrai Island – an exceptional hour-long massage in the privacy and comfort of our bure. They are able to organise almost any treatment you would like with a small amount of notice!

Rest or active rest?

At Outrigger, we attempted to have a game of tennis, but soon realised we were just embarrassing ourselves, so we downed the rackets and headed back to the sunbeds by the pool. We also spent some time in the gym to burn off the ice cream by the pool!

After a few days we moved to the Shangri-La, a huge resort with an infinity pool, an adult’s pool and a delightful area of beach that leads out into the marine reserve. Our room there was also lovely and had a great view out over the beach and the sea.

Then onto Tadrai Island was spectacular.

Our bure was right on the beach, and had its own plunge pool, enormous inside/ outside bathroom area with no less than two showers and a free-standing bath, iPad with Wi-Fi and an iPod dock with Bose speaker system. When we arrived all the staff were there singing and waving to greet us off the boat and when we were shown to our bure we found bottle of Moet on ice waiting for us – it was amazing!

Finally we moved to the Radission on Denarau island, which was also beautiful.

It is a large resort with a huge and beautiful pool with a waterfall at one end of it, and the pool bar is definitely worth a look! There are loads of restaurants to choose from and you get just about anything you want.

Romantic treats?

At Outrigger we were treated to a glass of champagne and canapes at sunset each evening in our room. At the ShangriLa – the first night we were given the most romantic table at Takali for dinner, overlooking the ocean and the band played a special song just for us as we enjoyed our Lobster, Chinese style… but the second night they blew us away at Kalevu with a private room for dinner!

Everything about Tadrai Island was an amazing and unforgettable romantic treat!

Afternoon hot chocolates (you have not tasted hot chocolate until you’ve tasted it Tadrai style), evening champagnes by the infinity pool overlooking the Pacific – the list is endless.

What was your favourite meal or restaurant?

Ivi at Outrigger on the Lagoon was great – we particularly loved a traditional Fijian dish that they did, Kokodo. It’s raw mahi mahi, marinated in coconut cream, lime, onions, tomatoes and chilli, and they mix it for you at your table – it was delicious.

Did you go on any amazing excursions?

We took a helicopter back from Tadrai Island, which was amazing. We were the only people on there (other than the pilot, obviously) and he took us on a little tour of the other islands on the way back to Denarau. The views were unbelievable and it really showed just how beautiful each of the islands, their surrounding coral and the clear seas are in that area. Also while at Tadrai we were taken by buggy down to one of the other secluded beaches for a private snorkelling adventure and by boat to a sandbank surrounded by pristine reefs that we also explored.

How friendly were the locals?

Everyone was really friendly, nothing was ever too much trouble, and each and every person went out of their way to make us feel welcome.

What are the best things about Fiji?

The people, the weather, the beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters with exceptional snorkelling, there’s so many things it’s hard to narrow it down.

We would definitely go there again, we really enjoyed our stay at all the resorts and will definitely head back over there – once we’ve finished paying off the wedding, of course!

Your tips for picking the ideal honeymoon?

Think about going to a place you’ve always dreamed of going, as this is the perfect opportunity to splash out and have the time of your lives and get memories that will last a lifetime.

Exclusive Fiji honeymoon offer Book ANY Fiji Wedding or Honeymoon with Austravel by 30th September 2012 and receive £100 off per couple!* EXCLUSIVE 10 Night Fiji Luxury Honeymoon From £2795 per person (saving £580 per couple!**) Package includes: n Return international flights with Cathay Pacific n 8 nights Outrigger on the Lagoon: includes 2 free nights, complimentary ‘his and hers’ sulus, and local memento n 2 nights at the luxury Tadrai Island Resort n All land and launch transfers *Minimum return international flights and 5 nights accommodation in Fiji required. Book by 30th June for travel dates 1st May - 30th November 2012, and 1st February 31st March 2013. **Book by 30th September. Package travel dates based on October 2012.

Most romantic memory?

Chi, the spa at the Shangri-La, was pretty special. We were pampered for what felt like hours and then were served a romantic dinner for just the two of us, before we stayed the night in a bure right on the beach in a totally secluded spot.

Also, sitting in our plunge pool and looking out at the sea while enjoying a glass of champagne at Tadrai was pretty special.

Was the weather good?

It was pretty good, we went in the rainy season so we weren’t expecting it to be perfect. We did get a little rain but it did not take away from the amazing time that we had and we had more than enough time to laze around and soak up the warmth and sunshine. www.BridesAbroad.tv 91

Outrigger on the Lagoon HHHHH The Outrigger is Fijis first official 5* resort. As well as providing the location for a perfect honeymoon the award winning Outrigger on the Lagoon offers flexible wedding packages with several options available to create the perfect exotic wedding. Traditional Fijian ceremonies, with authentic Fijian dress and four-person warrior escort for the Bride, are available or simple civil ceremonies can be arranged. In 2008 the hilltop and spectacular Bure Ni Loloma Wedding Chapel opened its beautiful hand carved timber doors to welcome couples for the first time. The Resort also offers a Garden Wedding package where couples have a choice of several lush locations amongst the glorious gardens in the Resort or, if preferred, on the beach with a stunning sunset to warm the ceremony. www. outrigger.com

Tadrai Island Resort HHHHH At the Tadrai they say ‘you deserve to live the dream’, and once entering this stunning 5* resort you could be fooled in to thinking you were. Having been created specifically for couples to savour the peace and tranquillity of a stunning palm fringed cove and four private beaches; this is the newest 5* resort on Fiji and the first to offer an all inclusive luxury adults only retreat. With only five deluxe villas, all of which are beach front with their own private plunge pool; each villa is attended by a personal butler ensuring the ultimate in individual service is guaranteed.

From fine cuisine in its signature restaurant to secluded picnics - dining at the Tadrai is an experience in itself. The Alfresco Spa provides treatments for couples seeking relaxation. For those feeling more energetic there are a variety of activities tailored for your interest; or you can just enjoy the beautiful shoreline taking a moonlit stroll. www.tadrai.com

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Shangri-La, Yanuca Island HHHHH

Shangri-La resorts are synonymous with luxury and Yanuca Island is no different. A dream-like refuge of serenity, privacy, and luxurious comfort.

With an array of romance offerings for honeymooners and those looking to marry; it can provide both package and bespoke signature weddings tailored to your budget. Within the resort you can stay in any one of the executive suites where you can soak in the panoramic sea views. Entertainment and activities are in abundance at the resort and you must visit the Marine Education Centre - a collaborative project with

the local community where you can get up close and personal with the coral reef. There’s also a multitude of watersports on offer and the Fijian Fusion Spa offers plenty of pampering for the body and mind. www. shangri-la.com

Radisson Resort, Denarau Island Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Denarau Island features 270 luxuriously spacious guest rooms and suites combined with a contemporary and unique Fijian blend.

There are unique dining options at the resort to look after your taste buds; such as the Lamni Wai and the awarding winning Cross restaurant (it won 2010 Fiji Top restaurant award). The resort offers an abundance of activities for those staying – from water sports to the nearby Denarau Golf and Racquet club – home to what is regarding as one of the finest golf courses in the South Pacific. www. radissonblu.com

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Lorraine Kelly in

Bali B

ritain’s favourite TV presenter, Lorraine Kelly took a break from filming LK Today to head to the Far East with husband Steve for a romantic spa break in exotic Bali.

Lorraine and Steve were in much need of pampering and relaxation after Lorraine’s busy filming schedule, so they chose a two-location holiday in Bali to unwind with soothing spa treatments, delicious cuisine and spectacular surrounds.

The couple stayed at Ubud Hanging Gardens, a tropical haven of peace and tranquility set among the smoky volcanoes and emerald rice terraces at the heart of Bali, and Jimbaran Puri Bali, a gorgeous beach resort on the island, both popular destinations for weddings, blessings and honeymoons in Bali.

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Ubud Hanging Gardens This Orient-Express hotel in the cultural centre of Ubud perches on a gorge with an exquisite temple on the opposite cliff. Its luxury pool villas are built in traditional style, as if in a Balinese village. Guests can recline in their private plunge pool and are totally enveloped by nature: jungle-covered mountains and exotic flowers.

Lorraine says: “As soon as I arrived at the Ubud Hanging Gardens in Bali I could actually feel the stress oozing out of my body even before I had set foot in the spa or sampled any of the treatments.

The setting, in a lush green rainforest overlooking an ancient Balinese temple, is simply stunning. Our sumptuous villa with its own infinity pool and indoor and outdoor showers was right at the top of a very steep hill, with the restaurant, bar and pool half way down.

Sublime Spa The Ayung Spa was right at the very bottom of the resort, near the river, but there was an ingenious and dinky little funicular that zapped up and down the hill to save guests from an exhausting climb. The spa setting was just beautiful with soft Balinese music playing and windows open to the gentle breeze and quiet birdsong.

Treatments on offer at the spa include Balinese massage, invigorating Ginger bodyscrub and herbal revivals. There’s also a special package for men and an ‘angel bliss’ spa treatment for kids.

I opted for a scrub and aromatherapy massage followed by a relaxing flower bath. It had been ages since I had treated my body to a good deep down cleansing treatment and the coconut and lime worked magic on my skin leaving it soft and stimulated and squeaky clean.

The massage with lemongrass oil was relaxing but thorough, especially the neck, head and shoulders where I store up my stress,

thanks to hours hunched over a computer and constantly carrying a ridiculously heavy handbag.

After a quick shower, I stepped next door into a beautiful old fashioned wooden tub filled to the brim with gorgeous natural flowers and I wallowed there for ages looking at the stunning view of the temple on the hill opposite the hotel.

Candlelit Romance You can have the ultimate romantic candlelit dinner actually inside the temple and the hotel will even organise a special blessing and a lazy walk back down the hill and across the river where you can jump on the funicular back to the bar for drinks or to your room for whatever you might fancy!

As always in Bali, you receive service with a genuine smile and the most delicious local food for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

I wished I could have stayed far longer, especially as the hotel organises activities like white water rafting for the more adventurous, and cooking lessons using herbs and spices from the hotels own gardens.

Exploring Ubud There are also trips to Ubud itself, the artistic and cultural heart of Bali with some brilliant galleries, shops, restaurants and art exhibitions. You can also catch authentic Balinese dancing to the distinctive sounds of the gamelan in the open air of an ancient temple, which is simply not to be missed, and the hotel also has regular visits from dance troupes and artists.

Ubud has a fair sprinkling of hippy dippy westerners who came here to find themselves and understandably decided to stay, and it is also where Julia Roberts filmed scenes for the movie Eat, Love, Pray” www.BridesAbroad.tv 95

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Jimburan Puri Bali The romantic Jimbaran Puri Bali resort overlooks one of Bali’s most beautiful soft sandy beaches offering a tropical escape with a vista of the evening sun slipping beneath the horizon, fishermen out at sea, massages on the beach and a laid-back restaurant beside the water where the scent of grilling fish entices you to your table.

Lorraine says: “From Ubud, we headed 30 miles south to the Jimburan Puri Bali, a beautiful beach resort that was very different to the lush ‘other worldliness’ of Ubud, but equally relaxing.

At Jimburan we had our own private villa with a pool, just a gentle couple of minutes’ stroll from the sea, but you could very happily never venture out of your own garden.

The beach has perfect white sand, the water is lovely and warm and lounging on one of the gorgeous cabanas with a gin and tonic watching the sun going down has to be one of the great joys of life.

A Perfect Pedicure The spa itself is actually on the beach and you receive your treatments in luxurious but discreet open air thatched wooden buildings with the sea breeze wafting over you and the sound of the waves helping you drift off to sleep.

I had a fantastic facial, again using local oils including frangipani, and a peeloff mask that left my skin unbelievably soft. I also had a foot massage and pedicure, which ingeniously still allowed me to lie down on the bed and fall fast asleep. My feet have gone through four marathons, ten 26-mile midnight walks for charity and the Comic Relief Desert Trek for 100km in sweltering north Kenya, and so they are not the prettiest of sights, but they felt as though they had been kissed by angels after the massage, and somehow my therapist managed to make my tootsies look fantastic.

I wore my strappy open-toed sandals that night for dinner with confidence knowing that my feet weren’t letting me down for once!

Local wining, romantic dining We had lunch at the restaurant by the beach and discovered local Balinese wine, which is actually rather good, especially the fizzy pink sparkling stuff from Hatten.

Imported wine is ruinously expensive in Bali and can easy double the cost of your meal even if you are dining on fresh lobster, so it is worth going local.

We also ate dinner outside our own private villa, by our own private pool.

Staff expertly set out a table outside and we felt hugely pampered.

Thanks to the spa treatments, the gorgeous food, top service and probably with a little help from the local vino, I have never had such a brilliant sleep as I did in both Ubud and Jimbaran. Bali is renowned for the quality of its spas and they are exceptional, but it is also the attention to detail and the sheer warmth of the welcome that makes all the difference.” www.BridesAbroad.tv 97

Weddings & Honeymoons in Bali Ubud Hanging Gardens Indulge in the exceptional surroundings at this stunning tropical resort, which provides the perfect setting for your Balinese destination wedding and dream honeymoon. Whether you want a traditional, intimate wedding or one with an extra wow factor, the hotel’s wedding coordinator provides expert planning and a full catering service to make your big day perfect.

For a wedding with a difference, the hotel offers a totally unique floating wedding ceremony, set on their horizon-edge pool, or you can simply opt for magic moments on the terrace with dramatic views over the river valley.

Couples can have their wedding nerves soothed away with a pre-wedding spa package to turn their special day into a delightful experience.

Wedding Packages

Western or Balinese Legal Wedding Package (Price from £1,698) Includes wedding co-ordinator, venue, Western or Balinese decorations, corsage, bouquet and legal arrangements (religious minister certificate, civil certificate and document processing).

Commitment Ceremony (Price from £1,173)

Includes wedding co-ordinator, venue, decoration, corsage and bouquet

Wedding Venues

• Floating wedding – set above the infinity pool on a floating stage • Enchanting temple wedding – set in the Balinese temple across the river gorge from the resort.

• Enchanted valley wedding – set in the Diatas Pohon Café • Private in-villa wedding – located on your villa’s pool deck

Book It

reservations@ubudhanginggardens.com www.ubudhanginggardens.com

Jimbaran Puri Bali Wedding Packages Enchanting Wedding Package (Price from £920) This package includes: a venue to accommodate up to 10 guests on the beach or in the Puri Bamboo Wedding Pavilion; deluxe decorations – either traditional Balinese or Western; wedding coordinator; English-speaking celebrant, Frangipani bouquet and boutonniére; symbolic marriage certificate; ring pillow for wedding rings with fresh flowers; Balinese Rindik Music throughout the ceremony; wine for the wedding toast.

Simple and Sweet Wedding Package (Price from £430)

Perfect for those who prefer a more intimate experience. Includes an English-speaking celebrant; simple yet elegant décor for the venue by the beach or Puri Bamboo Wedding Pavilion including a Balinese umbrella, a Frangipani walkway and a fresh flower arrangement for the altar.

A white sand beach, the gently setting sun, trees swaying in the warm breeze and the sound of the ocean all combine to create the wedding of your dreams. Set on one of the most breathtaking beaches in Bali, Jimbaran Puri Bali provides an intimate and exclusive setting.

Be it a commitment ceremony, a wedding or a renewal of your vows, the resort can tailor the event to suit your tastes and offers a choice of two delightful venues; a ceremony by the beach or at the Puri Bamboo Pavilion.

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Legal Weddings Weddings with legal documents are also available upon request.

Other wedding services such as photographer, hair and makeup, wedding cake and more are available on request.

Book It sales@jimbaranpuribali.com www.jimbaranpuribali.xom

France Enchanting

Discover a relaxed, romantic side to the south of France, with a honeymoon tour of Provence and Languedoc, says Colette Harris

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f you love bling, glitz and A-list chic, then Cannes, Monte Carlo, and St Tropez are your glamorous party destinations. But for understated chic, a more relaxed luxury and romantic boltholes, the south of France has lots to offer a honeymooning couple – whether you choose to stop and soak up one area or make a relaxed tour of Provence and Languedoc.

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The

Hilltop Retreat Let the sensual relaxation of Provence seep into your soul, with a few days of bliss at hilltop retreat Hotel Crillon le Brave (www.crillonlebrave.com). The collection of seven ancient village houses overlooks the surrounding Côtes du Rhône vineyards, lavender fields and olive groves. Views from every window have a calming effect – sun-warmed roof tiles, breezerippled trees, cobbled paths winding round the hotel grounds.

Drink in the views In the morning, linger over breakfast, drinking in the breathtaking view generously unfolding as far as your eyes can see. Then set out for a day exploring. Walks and bike rides (get a route map, and bikes, from reception) take you on magically picturesque forays into the local countryside, and villages with fabulous viewpoints and local markets.

Drink in the wild flowers of the olive groves, the fragrant blossoms, the vines. Sip chilled local rosé at corner cafés.

Hotel Crillon le Brave can organise a local wine-tasting trip – or, if you fancy burning off some of your gourmet dinners, there’re a tennis court, golf and horseback riding nearby. If you’re a Tour de France fan, hi-tech bikes can be hired in Bedouin, and the challenge of the ascent to Mont Ventoux beckons – refresh yourself at Chalet Reynard, near the summit, with great views. For a gallery, museum and architecture fix, visit Carpentras on market day. If you can’t resist antiques, visit L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, where you can enjoy lunch or drinks by the river – try Bistrot de l’Industrie on Quai de la Charite for a cold beer.

Unwind and relax Return late afternoon in time for tea or pastis, and a game of boules on the hotel court; or a dreamy swim in the delightfully warm outdoor pool, on a terrace with stunning views. Or you can just find a sunbed, and let your inner lizard bask in the pre-dinner rays, and green-scented air. Or perk yourself up pre-dinner with the L’Occitane en Provence verbena products in your room’s shower, a snifter from the mini bar, and a favourite movie from the hotel’s DVD collection.

Savour local flavours Dinner in the hotel is a delightful affair – snuggle by the roaring fire indoors if there’s a chill in the air as night falls; or enjoy a balmy night eating on the outdoor terrace as the winking lights of the villages twinkle below. Seasonal and local produce is celebrated here, so the menu changes slowly – try red mullet on a Provençale onion and anchovy tart; or an intense, rich barley risotto with mushrooms and parsnip crisp. Look out for cherries, apricots and peaches in summer; or truffles in March and November (when the hotel only opens for long weekends).

Night owls can enjoy drinks in the ‘La Grange’ bar, with comfortable low sofas and a staggering array of digestifs, cocktails and wines. Or amble up to the local village church a couple of minutes away, to see the views across the other side of the plain.

Insider info • If you like cosy, choose room 30, high up in the roof; for acres of room, try suite 33 – where a pair of roll-top baths have a ‘Champagne table’ nestled between them, so you can sip as you soak. Suite 26 has double windows with fabulous views; and suite 24 has a panoramic terrace accessible from the bedroom and the lounge.

• The Hotel has a treatment room – a mini Cowshed spa – where prebooked massages can pummel away knots and revitalise you.

Essentials

Prices from: 250 euros staying room-only. Continental breakfast 12 euros. www.crillonlebrave.com Getting there: Hotel Crillon le Brave is just 30 mins from Avignon. Go via Eurostar (cuts your carbon emissions by a staggering 90% compared to air travel) from £109 (www.eurostar.com). Taxis between 75-100 euros, depending on the tariff (Sundays and evenings are more expensive).

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The

Sumptuous Spa With graceful gardens, and vineyards surrounding the beautifully restored mansion that is Domaine de Verchant, you feel as if you are in a countryside hideaway, despite being just a 10-minute taxi ride from Montpellier station.

Drink in the views Lounge by the outdoor pool, linger over lunch on the terrace, or head to the hotel bar, with mosaic flooring and egg-shaped swivel chairs in olive-green leather, where you can enjoy the hotel’s very own wines – the whites and rosé are a perfect aperitif. The tranquil spa is a haven whatever the weather. There’s a fabulous choice of treatments, with massages ranging from Thai to Ayurvedic, Balinese to Shiatsu, alongside the signature Verchant massage with plant oils. Facials include anti-ageing treatments using the Swiss Valmont range favoured

by Brad Pitt. You can also enjoy the sun terrace filled with white sculptures and overlooking the vineyards.

• Spoil yourself for a special occasion in the Neige d’Avril honeymoon suite’s round bed with sheer white curtains, enormous hydromassage tub, and private terrace, or the Nur Mahal Room with access to the garden from its own terrace.

• Spa treatment prices range from around 110 euros for 60 minutes.

Spa break packages are also available – ask about the latest offers.

Essentials

Prices from: 230 euros per night, with breakfast at 25 euros per person, www.chicretreats.com Getting there: Montpellier is just an hour by train from Avignon if you’ve travelled by Eurostar.

Don’t miss out...

Other great places to explore in the area: Carcassonne

Make the most of simple or gourmet dishes alike, in the restaurant surrounded with white linen curtains, or on the terrace on a warm night. Taste, al dente asparagus, local cheeses, roasted duckling fillet in spicy honey, with aubergine marmalade and foie gras. Plus rose cream éclair, raspberries and coulis, and lemon sorbet for those with a sweet tooth. Don’t forget room service if you want to stay secluded.

This splendid walled town is packed with stylish boutiques, cafés, restaurants and historical monuments. Explore the winding cobbled streets and pick up locally made soaps, perfumes, pottery, jewellery and crafts – or walk along the river to see the views of the citadel from afar. Then visit the restored castle and defensive walls, for magnificent views of the newer town and the country beyond. Around an hour from Montpellier by train. Or fly direct with Ryanair from Liverpool, Stansted, Glasgow or East Midlands.

So much, so near…

Nîmes

Dine by candlelight

There’s so much to see and do locally, so make the most of it. Enjoy the museums, theatres and restaurants of Montpellier’s old town, a 10-minute taxi ride away. Or spend a day at the beach – there are public and private sands less than 15 minutes away, where you can soak up the seagull cries, sunshine and smell of suntan lotion. Fancy something more sporty? There are several golf courses in the region, including Golf de Massane and Golf Grande Motte.

Insider info The sleek, stylish rooms are filled with huge beds, pampering bathrooms, views of the hotel’s own vines just outside, gardens or the outdoor pool.

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Just 30 minutes from Montpellier by train (Or fly direct from the UK from Liverpool or Luton; or to Marseilles, an hour’s drive away), the ancient city of Nîmes is steeped in Roman history. See Europe’s most complete amphitheatres, still used today for concerts and bullfights; explore the dappled gardens set around ancient Roman fountains, lunch in the many squares, and shop in the quirky boutiques.

Brides Abroad

HONEYMOONoffers!

You can jet off to some of the world’s most exciting and stunning honeymoon destinations at significant discount if you book through Brides Abroad’s exclusive travel service. Book it now on: 01937 584892.

Mallorca Villa Italia, Puerto Andraxt,

The ultimate Majorcan wedding and honeymoon boutique hotel in an idyllic location with stunning views over the yacht harbour and Majorca’s favourite playground for the rich!

7 nights Junior suite Oct 2012.

Special Offer

£699 per person

SAVE £150

BOOK IT NOW! CALL:

01937 584892

www.BridesAbroad.tv 103

Switzerland Beau Rivage Palace

Five nights in a Junior Suite, with stunning lake views for two. Plus one dinner in the sumptuous Cafe Beau Rivage.

One of the leading hotels of the world.

Amazing!

5 nights Junior suite Sept-Dec 2012.

Special Offer

RRP £4,738

per couple

SAVE £1001

Portugal

Aquapura Douro Valley

Three nights, stay in this sublime spa retreat voted one of the world’s 10 best wine country retreats.

3 nights B&B in a fantastic ‘River Room’.

Unavailable August. The best available price advertised anywhere on the web is £900.

3 nights B&B

Special Offer SpaWorld Deal

RRP £900

£645 per couple

SAVE £255

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BOOK IT NOW! CALL:

£3737

01937 584892

Sri Lanka Bentota Beach Resort & Spa 5 nights B&B (perfect to combine with Maldives honeymoon)

Special Offer

£395 per couple

RRP £600

SAVE £205 Per Couple

Pigeon Island Resort 14 nights plus optional wedding packages.

Special Offer

RRP £1,282

£995 per couple

SAVE £288 Per Couple

Maldives Park Hyatt Resort & Spa 7 nights B&B including sea plane transfers

Special Offer

RRP £4,295

£3,295

per couple

SAVE £1000 Per Couple

Royal Island Resort & Spa 7 nights B&B including sea plane transfers.

Special Offer

RRP £4,291

BOOK IT NOW! CALL:

£2,995 per couple

SAVE £1296 Per Couple

01937 584892

www.BridesAbroad.tv 105

Grenada Tenerife

Bahia Del Duque

Beautiful luxury resort for wonderful destination weddings and romantic honeymoons – very accessible for guests too.

La Source Tropical, ultra all-inclusive luxury resort for your dreams, romantic holiday of a lifetime. Staying in a Luxury Garden View Room, on an Ultra All Inclusive Basis Including flights from London Gatwick Departing 3rd, 7th, 10th, 14th, 17th, 21st, 24th and 31st October 2012 Flights from other UK airports are also available.

7 nights All Inclusive Oct 2012.

Special Offer

£1619 per person

Exclusive Offers Exclusive Offers For Arrivals Between 24/08/12 – 30/09/12

For Arrivals Between 01/10/12 – 11/10/12 Pay Bed & Breakfast and receive a

FREE FREE NIGHTS UPGRADE pay 6 stay 7 nights to Half Board Basis.

Minimum stay 7 nights

pay 13 stay 14 nights

Porto Elounda Deluxe Resort, Crete 7 nights B&B

Special Offer

£1,995

per couple

Available 17th September - October 31st 2012 RRP £3,037

SAVE £1042 Per Couple

Aegialis Resort and Spa, Amorgos Cyclades, Greek Islands 10 days HB in a deluxe double room

Special Offer

£1,695

per couple

Available 17th September - October 31st 2012

Greece RRP £2,543

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BOOK IT NOW! CALL:

SAVE £848 Per Couple

01937 584892

WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS

• Caribbean • Indian Ocean • Asia • Australasia • Africa • Middle East • The Americas •

Visit

www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351

Weddings are like people – they come in all shapes and sizes! Some are traditional, some are small, some are funky and some are downright outrageous. But who cares – it’s your day, so make sure you have it your way.

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lthough every wedding is always different, ultimately everyone wants the same thing; a day that celebrates the very best of your relationship, is utterly unique and one you wouldn’t give back for all the tea in China. We don’t sell packaged weddings and honeymoons at Tropical Sky, we help you create your own tailormade template, and then we never use it the same way again.

Whatever your dream wedding or honeymoon may be, we have done them all. At Tropical Sky, we take as much of the stress out of the experience as possible, leaving only the fun and wonderful memories to come. Whatever wedding you choose with us, you can always expect a personalised service, in a safe and experienced pair of hands. From the back of a yacht on the Hudson River to the back of an elephant in Sri Lanka; from the heights of Sydney Harbour Bridge to a submarine below the seas of Mauritius, from walking with Elvis in Las Vegas to being carried by tribal warriors in Fiji.

Tropical Sky is a small, friendly, family-run business with years of experience arranging weddings of every shape and size right across the globe. We’re open seven days a week from 9am to 9pm and offer exceptional service because we honestly understand how important this day is to you.

Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

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he Caribbean islands have always been an explorer’s dream come true and remain one of the most popular exotic travel destinations in the world. Whether you’re inspired by the cuisine, the natural surroundings, the cultural diversity or the local history, every moment you spend there generates thousands of stunning images. From the west, where Mexico just kisses the edge of the Caribbean Sea, to the eternal sunshine paradise of Tobago far to the south – no wonder it is the number one destination for weddings abroad.

THE CARIBBEAN

Wherever in the world you eventually settle down with your new partner, it’s the start that matters the most. Make sure you kick off your life of married bliss as you mean to go on – in style!

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f you are seeking sunshine, breathtakingly beautiful settings and memories to last a lifetime, the Caribbean is a perfect choice for your destination wedding and honeymoon.

Stretching in an arc from Florida to South America, lie some of the most beautiful islands in the world, with lush landscapes, golden coral sand beaches and calm turquoise waters.

Each island has a character of it’s own, from simple and relaxed to exotic and sophisticated, with all offering many wonderful possibilities for an idyllic tropical wedding.

The Caribbean offers an abundance of romantic wedding venues. Tropical Sky can arrange weddings on many of the Caribbean islands, including Barbados, St Lucia, Antigua, Grenada and Tobago. A selection of their featured resorts even offer FREE Wedding packages, with many of them including flowers, wedding cake, champagne and sparkling wine, a romantic dinner and even room upgrades.

ALMOND RESORTS

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tart married life together at Almond Resorts and choose from a selection of wedding venues at any of the three Almond Resorts’ premium all-inclusive hotels on stunning Barbados.

A barefoot beachside wedding? A hilltop gazebo looking across the sparkling Caribbean ocean? Or what about a romantic historic sugar mill set in tropical gardens? The choice is yours.

All three of Almond Resorts offers plenty of choice and variety – and a free shuttle service is provided for guests to travel between all three resorts to take advantage of the facilities that each resort has to offer for free. The resorts offer a fantastic selection of à la carte restaurants serving various cuisines including traditional

Caribbean fayre, Italian and seafood in beautiful settings. You can top the night off with a fruity cocktail in one of the fabulous bars. Each resort has freshwater swimming pools and pool-side bars, and offers a wide range of activities including water sports with tuition (water skiing, windsurfing, sailing, aqua cycling, kayaking, snorkelling, reef fishing and banana boating).

There is also a fitness centre, volleyball and tennis courts and even a nine-hole golf course at the Almond Beach Village. Or you can simply relax at the Almond Beach Club & Spa’s Praana Spa, which offers a range of body treatments, facials and massages.

Free Wedding Packages!

Almond Resorts can arrange everything you could possible need – from flowers, cakes and colour schemes to lifestyle photography packages and personalised spa experiences to relax and rejuvenate you both before the big day.

To qualify for your FREE wedding, honeymoon or renewal of vows package – all you have to do is stay a minimum of just seven nights in a deluxe room

category. Upgrade packages are also available to tailor-make the day of your dreams.

Book it!

4* Almond Beach Village & Almond Beach Club seven nights all-inclusive standard room with scheduled flights from £1,149pp.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

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WHY BARBADOS? For couples seeking a colourful, vibrant Caribbean location for their tropical destination wedding, Barbados is a perfect choice

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his beautiful pear-shaped coral island, just 21 miles long by 14 miles wide, has so much to offer for dream weddings and blissful honeymoons, with its stunning beaches, cool palm trees, warm year-round climate and lush landscapes.

The south and west coasts of Barbados face the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea and are calm and palmfringed with gently lapping waves, whereas the Atlantic east coast has a rugged, natural beauty with towering limestone cliffs and rolling ocean surf.

Far beyond its sun-splashed beaches, Barbados delivers an exquisite experience of warm hospitality and sensual pleasures. Barbados is both a haven for relaxation and a virtual Mecca for active lifestyles and cultural pursuits

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– from sightseeing and shopping to sunbathing on pristine beaches.

While sun worshipping remains seductive amidst endless beaches and the delightful climate, the splendid cultural events, sporting activities and historic attractions available make Barbados a real Caribbean treasure island. No wonder it’s such a hit with A-list celebrities like Simon Cowell and Rihanna.

First timers and loyal returning guests agree that the island is a refreshing mix of natural wonders and heavenly delights, providing an intoxicating cocktail of romance, relaxation and adventure.

Barbados offers all types of accommodation, with an excellent choice of luxurious 4* and 5* hotels, which are perfect for hosting your dream wedding.

or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

Weddings in Barbados Barbados is a truly enchanting place to celebrate an occasion as special as a wedding, whether it’s a grand affair with an extensive guest list, or an intimate ceremony on a secluded beach. With its sophisticated hotels and resorts, exquisite stretches of white sand and year-round sunshine, Barbados has all the necessary ingredients for a spectacular event.

Often referred to as the jewel in the Caribbean’s crown, no wonder Barbados is considered one of the top choices for destination weddings. The island has everything you need to make your wedding the hassle-free and memorable experience it should be – from wedding and event planners to photographers, decorators, florists and caterers.

Getting married in Barbados couldn’t be simpler – recent legislation has eliminated the advance notice requirements to marry on the island, allowing couples to marry as soon as a licence is obtained.

Where to say ‘I do’ The idyllic west coast offers popular locations for those wanting sun, sea and sand on their wedding day and comes with an array of resorts with choices of wedding packages to suit all budgets. Once you’ve chosen your venue, leave the resort to arrange everything else so that you can relax and admire the turquoise sea view whilst sipping on a rum punch.

For a more traditional take on things, St James Parish Church offers white weddings for couples with up to 400 guests and if you’re looking for something a little different, a ceremony at an abandoned sugar mill may satisfy your taste for the exotic.

However you’ve imagined your day to be, Barbados will surpass all expectations. From tropical beaches to lush tropical gardens or a historic plantation house to romantic sunset cruises, it doesn’t get better than Barbados when saying “I do”.

Book it!

Stay seven nights all-inclusive at the 4* Island Inn Boutique Hotel in a garden room with scheduled flights. From £1,099p.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

www.tropicalsky.co.uk Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412 7 7

WHY ST LUCIA?

If you are looking for an exotic Caribbean island setting with the wow-factor, then look no further than St Lucia. It simply epitomizes the concept of a tropical paradise for your wedding or honeymoon

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t Lucia is one of the most lush islands in the Caribbean, with verdant mountain landscapes carpeted with tropical vegetation, rainforests, secluded sandy beaches and banana plantations. However, the landmark that dominates St Lucia is the Pitons – jagged twin peaks soaring above the south west coast of St Lucia – it’s a wedding photographer’s dream! It is also the perfect destination for dream honeymoons with many activities on offer – from rainforest hikes and sky rides to watersports, golf and horse riding or simply relaxing on a sandy beach with a delicious rum punch!

Weddings Packages You can marry in a variety of exotic locations in St Lucia including decorated gazebos, huts overlooking the surf, stunning beaches, in the tropical rainforest or, if you prefer, a religious ceremony in a church. Most hotels and resorts in St Lucia offer wedding packages with excellent deals available including free nights’ accommodation, free upgrades and even free wedding ceremonies!

Book it!

Stay seven nights all-inclusive at the 4* Coconut Bay Resort & Spa in a deluxe garden splash room, with flights. From £1,329pp.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

ANSE CHASTANET

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estled amidst a 600-acre tropical estate with two soft sand Caribbean beaches bordering pristine coral reefs, Anse Chastanet is in complete harmony with its natural surroundings. And St Lucia’s twin peaks, the Pitons, make for a spectacularly scenic backdrop – perfect for taking iconic wedding photographs! The resort has been voted one of the Caribbean’s Most Romantic and is as popular with honeymooners as it is with scuba divers and those seeking a tranquil escape. Resort facilities include 49 individually designed rooms, three restaurants and two bars, the Kai Belté spa, a mountain bike centre with miles of trails, watersports, scuba, sailing yacht, boutiques and art gallery.

to the civil ceremony. The bride and groom choose their own ‘very special’ location on the 600-acre resort estate with its two beaches and an Old Colonial Plantation.

Book it!

Stay seven nights B&B at the 5* Anse Chastanet, superior hillside room with scheduled flights. From £1,399pp.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

Wedding Packages Anse Chastanet’s spectacular scenic location and romantic ambiance make it one of St Lucia’s foremost wedding destinations. Anse Chastanet only commits to one ceremony a day and management and staff will look after you to ensure that your wedding will be the memorable, carefree and happy event you want it to be.

Every ceremony is organized personally for the couple who can also add their own vows

Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

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rendezvouS, Saint luCia

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endezvous, on the lush Caribbean island of Saint Lucia, provides an intimate holiday experience for more discerning couples who want to spend quality time together. It is also the perfect setting for a Caribbean wedding or honeymoon, providing a great opportunity for couples to escape to an idyllic retreat to seek blissful relaxation and indulge in each other’s company, away from the stresses of everyday life. Rendezvous is a family run resort, which cares passionately that guests enjoy every second of their stay, and that whatever they want, they get.

Rendezvous enjoys a stunning location.

Walk along Malabar beach and enjoy two miles of soft white sand in which to sink your toes. Stop and listen to the Caribbean

Sea gently ebb and flow, and the sounds of the birds as they swoop and dive. The bar sits on the edge of the beach so settle down, sip your drink and watch the world pass you by.

Guests have a choice of luxurious accommodation in 100 rooms and suites: 18 Garden View Rooms, 18 Premium Garden Rooms, 24 Verandah Suites, eight Seaside Suites, 21 Luxury Beach Front Rooms, eight Beach Front Cottages and three Luxury Beach Front Suites.

There is also an excellent choice of bars and restaurants, which have been created to cater for every taste and every mood.

These range from the formal dining at The Trysting Place to the fun-packed informality of the Champagne Bar.

Wedding Packages Whether you are planning a simple ceremony or a more lavish affair, the wedding team at Rendezvous want to help you achieve your dream of the perfect wedding.

The resort’s new Wedding Centre is fitted with all the comforts a bride and groom might desire, and is designed to make your pre-wedding organisation completely stress-free.

Book it!

Stay 7 nights at the 5* Rendezvous, allinclusive, garden view room with scheduled flights, resort transfers. From £1,769pp.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

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SmugglerS Cove

reSort & Spa C ouples looking for an idyllic setting for their family wedding abroad need look no further than the secluded and sandy Smugglers Cove in Saint Lucia. ‘Community’ is the keyword as families and couples mingle by one of the seven pools, at the beach, in the sports club or somewhere in the lush tropical gardens. Smugglers is expert at managing each guest’s space and, with two adult-only pools, an adults-only restaurant and a luxury spa, you will never feel like you can’t get away if you need to.

Accommodation at the 4* all-inclusive resort is laid out in single-storey villas, creating a village-style ambience amid the 45 acres of tropical gardens.

Dining every evening is an event at Smugglers, with cuisine from across the world, including Italian, Pan-Asian and Creole seafood.

For those seeking relaxation, tranquillity and pre-wedding pampering, the Samsarati Spa offers a range of treatments and body massages, whether you want to enjoy them by the ocean, under the beachside gazebo or in one of six new treatment rooms.

For those wishing to explore the area, Smugglers is located just three miles from the vibrant Rodney Bay, with restaurants, cafés, shops, the Bay Walk Mall, nightclubs and the exciting new Treasure Bay Casino and Rodney Bay Marina.

Wedding Packages The resort offers a choice of three romantic and private wedding venues: an unforgettable beach wedding, a lush tropical garden, or exchange vows in the cliff-top gazebo overlooking the breathtaking Caribbean Sea. You can also choose from a full range of wedding packages and extras, which allow you to customise your wedding with the personal touches you have always wanted.

Book it!

Stay seven nights at the 4* Smugglers Cove Resort & Spa, in an all-inclusive, standard room with scheduled flights.

From £1,149pp.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

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Why Tobago?

Turquoise seas, exquisite sunsets and enchanting moonlit nights – what a perfect backdrop for your dream wedding!

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f you can imagine yourself walking down the aisle on a golden beach, at a historic fort, or in sunny glade in a lush rainforest, then Tobago is the perfect destination for your wedding.

Tobago lies south of the hurricane belt, just off the coast of South America. The verdant island rests 21 miles (33km) northeast of Trinidad – the most southerly island of the Caribbean and is surrounded by the tranquil Caribbean Sea on its north coast with the livelier Atlantic Ocean on its southern and western sides.

You can create a very special wedding by adding a touch of Tobago’s rich heritage to your nuptials and marrying in the style of yesteryear, with a traditional ‘Ole Time Wedding’, complete with the distinctive sounds of the fiddle and tambourine from a local Tambourine Band.

Treat your wedding party to an informal reception on the water, with a trip on one of the island’s catamarans, available for private hire with dining options to suit all your needs. Create a memory for a lifetime in Truly Romantic Tobago!

Book it!

Stay seven nights, all inclusive at the 3* Grafton Beach Resort, garden view room, with scheduled flights.

From £959pp.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

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Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

MagdaleNa graNd Beach resort

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estled in a 750-acre tropical plantation estate on Tobago, this new beachfront resort is the perfect place for couples to say “I do”. Situated alongside a two-kilometre long stretch of beach and next to its own 18-hole championship golf course and PADI 5* dive centre, there’s plenty to keep guests occupied, including three pools (one of which is adults only) and a relaxing spa.

If you’re feeling active, you can explore the estate on bicycles, participate in the daily activities and explore the nature trails and canopy walks through the mangrove forest.

Guests can also enjoy complimentary shuttle transfers to the nearby Pigeon Point beach where water sports are available.

The 200 deluxe ocean front rooms, including 22 one- and two-bedroom suites with private Jacuzzis, boast breath-taking panoramic views of the ocean. You can dine in a choice of five restaurants with a range of cuisines including Caribbean fine dining to the more casual Al Fresco beside the pool and Poolside and Beachfront snack bar. Evenings can be spent enjoying cocktails in a choice of three bars.

Wedding Packages The Magdalena Grand Beach Resort offers a range of different wedding packages with lots of magic touches included to make your day extra special. The wedding planner and events manager will assist you with all your needs. Couples have a choice of marrying in indoor or outdoor areas that can accommodate intimate and small groups as well as large parties.

The hotel’s catering staff will customise the perfect menu for any affair, whether a formal indoor or casual outdoor BBQ on the beach.

Book it!

Stay seven nights at the 4* Magdalena, allinclusive, standard room, scheduled flights from Gatwick. From £1,099pp.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

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No other Caribbean destination is as hip as Jamaica – the island is rhythm-infused and totally chilled. If you are looking for a colourful wedding or a fun-filled honeymoon, Jamaica is the perfect choice.

WHY JAMAICA?

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Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

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amaica is the ideal place to say ‘I do’ in the tropical sunshine. The friendly island has many beauty spots, rich in vegetation with glittering waterfalls, swaying palms, sandy beaches and vibrant towns. Explore Jamaica’s life, culture and breathtaking landmarks and be sure to visit Dunn’s River Falls on Ocho Rios to climb the world-famous waterfalls. Enjoy your dream honeymoon at your own pace – indulge in a host of activities from watersports and scuba diving to golf and tennis – or simply chill in the Caribbean sunshine. Take a sunset cruise on a catamaran or explore the popular bars and nightlife of Negril, enjoying cocktails to the rhythm of reggae music for which Jamaica is renowned.

Weddings Packages Jamaica’s luxury resorts offer beach weddings and ceremonies in their manicured tropical gardens. Most offer excellent deals on wedding packages – some even include free weddings.

Book it!

Stay seven nights all-inclusive at the 4* Breezes Resort & Spa Trelawny in a mountain view room, with flights. From £1,059pp. Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

BREEZES GRAND NEGRIL, JAMAICA

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reezes Grand has to be among the most romantic wedding venues on earth, and that’s just one of the great features of this flagship resort for marrying couples and honeymooners. Breezes Grand has perfected the art of hospitality and is picture perfect: stroll the breathtaking stretch of powder-white sand on Jamaica’s westernmost shore to find out.

The grandeur of this world-acclaimed destination begins with the lofty marble entrance hall and luxurious private suites in 22 acres of tropical gardens. You’ll enjoy pampering service, a wide variety of gourmet dining options and great amenities/activities in a stunning setting that is almost as unforgettable as your wedding.

Dream Weddings and Honeymoons Where happy endings begin Let the resort’s personal Dream Wedding Planner arrange all the details.

There’s no extra charge – from flowers to cake and so much more, with a variety of themes and romantic locations to suit your personalities. You can even combine your wedding and honeymoon.

So, when you’re tying the knot, you don’t need to lift a finger!

Book it!

4* Breezes Grand Resort & Spa Negril seven nights all-inclusive. Junior garden suite. Scheduled flights. From £1,229pp.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

Enjoy Breezes Grand’s unforgettable, complimentary, Endless Love package, or upgrade for an additional charge to their Timeless Love or Eternal Love packages.

Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

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The Jewel Dunn’s RiveR Beach ResoRT & spa

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he new, adults-only, all-inclusive Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort & Spa is located just moments from the spectacular Dunn’s River Falls, one of Jamaica’s must-see attractions. The stunning hotel boasts 250 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites within three buildings – Diamond, Sapphire and Emerald. The hotel offers multiple dining options from the most formal Platinum to the most casual Aquamarina Beach Bar & Grill – where even shoes are optional! There are two

bars including one where you can remain within the pool while you sip cocktails and the magical Emerald Tree Lounge that literally lights up each night.

wedding packages The hotel offers a choice of wedding packages to suit your budget, including the Classic, Premium and Luxury Packages.

Prices start from £380 for the Classic package which includes: personal wedding consultant; bouquet and boutonnière;

witnesses if needed; Marriage Officer to perform the ceremony; document preparation; government and administrative fees; marriage licence; hors d’oeuvres and sparkling wine for the couple and two guests; cake; wedding photograph; wedding gift; petal turn-down service on wedding night; breakfast in bed for bride & groom; and special wedding dinner for the bride and groom.

Book it!

Stay seven nights at the 4* Jewel Dunn’s River Resort, all-inclusive, premier guest room, scheduled flights from Gatwick.

From £1,429pp. Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

sunseT ResoRTs, Jamaica

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unset Resorts are a collection of three remarkable all-inclusive hotels that offer fantastic facilities in some of Jamaica’s most popular destinations. Three resorts, three distinctive alternatives... Sunset Beach Resort & Waterpark is a playful and vibrant resort boasting a full-scale water park for the children and a full-service spa & range of bars & restaurants for the parents. Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort & Spa in Ocho Rios is ideally located for some of the island’s most popular excursions, with fantastic facilities for all the family. In Negril, Sunset at the Palms is a boutique escape set in a ten-acre tropical garden.

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wedding packages At Sunset Resorts, there is a wedding venue to suit every taste. Whether it’s a romantic, private ceremony for the two of you or you want to celebrate with your friends and family, the hotels can accommodate groups of any size.

Sunset Resort’s experienced wedding planners work with you to prepare the perfect wedding, whether you choose the FREE wedding package* or opt for one of Sunset Resorts specialty packages, like the ‘Bliss’ or ‘Pure Indulgence’ wedding packages..

Book it!

Stay seven nights at the Sunset Jamaica Grande & Sunset Beach Resort and Waterpark, all-inclusive, resort view room with scheduled flights from Gatwick.

From £1,129pp.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351. *Terms and conditions apply.

Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

couples ResoRTs, Jamaica

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urn your wedding or honeymoon into an unforgettable romantic escape with Couples Resorts.

Each Couples Resort features luxury accommodation set in tropical gardens on beautiful beachfront locations.

With two properties in the resort town of Ocho Rios and two properties in Negril, each Couples Resort is ideally located in the areas most popular with holidaymakers. Whether you choose a deluxe room or suite, they are all beautifully appointed with every amenity you require.

Couples Tower Isle is the original adults only, all-inclusive resort in Jamaica,

offering a fresh, contemporary feel, spacious accommodation and superb facilities. Nestled into the lush vegetation on Jamaica’s Emerald Cliffs, Couples Sans Souci is the perfect destination for a romantic and relaxing escape.

Located in Negril, Couples Swept Away is the ultimate setting for a romantic hideaway, and is ideally located on a stunning stretch of the seven-mile Negril beach. Down the road, Couples Negril offers an elegant and stylish resort set in beautiful tropical surroundings.

Each Couples Resort offers a range of

dining options, from relaxed beach grills, to indulgent in-room dining and elegant gourmet à la carte restaurants. And you can expect more because Couples Resorts include more, taking all-inclusive to the next level by offering fantastic FREE inclusions such as scuba diving, including a course for beginners, water skiing, wind surfing, hobie cat sailing, snorkelling trips and romantic excursions including Dunn’s River Falls & Sunset Catamaran Cruise.

wedding packages At Couples Resorts, you will begin your life together in one of the most idyllic settings in the world. And on that special day, Couples Resorts promises to make sure everything is absolutely perfect. Its exceptional wedding packages offer a wide range of choices. Have your dream intimate wedding on the beach with the FREE ‘One Love’ wedding*, or indulge with one of the larger luxury wedding packages. * $250 licence fees payable.

Book it!

Stay seven nights at the 5* Couples Tower Isle, all-inclusive, deluxe garden room with scheduled flights from Gatwick. From £1,789pp.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

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MEXICAN DREAM WEDDINGS C

ouples looking for the perfect place to say ‘I do’ in Mexico need look no further than the stunning Dreams Cancun Resort & Spa. Designed by renowned Mexican architect, Ricardo Legorreta, Dreams Cancun Resort & Spa is exclusively situated at the shore point known as Punta Cancun. This Unlimited-Luxury® resort is surrounded on three sides by the crystal clear Caribbean and features the first resort Dolphinarium in Latin America, a pampering spa experience with Dreams Spa by Pevonia. The resort is ideally located just steps away from shops, complimentary greens fees at Playa Mujeres and the nightlife of Cancun.

The beautiful resort offers superb accommodation in luxury rooms and suites furnished in contemporary Mexican style with Mini Bar, 24-hour Room Service and private balconies enjoying stunning ocean

views. Exquisite dining options provide guests with a unique collection of gourmet à la carte restaurants plus lounges. Nightly entertainment includes exciting live music and shows, theme parties or outdoor movies right on the beach.

Wedding Packages There is no more beautiful, romantic or memorable setting to sanctify a new life together than Dreams Cancun Resort & Spa. The resort’s magnificent seaside wedding gazebo frames the most important and magical of moments. Also perfect for anniversaries, honeymoons or any romantic occasion. A choice of all-inclusive Wedding Packages are available at prices to suit your individual budget.

Book it!

Stay seven nights at the 5* Dreams Cancun Resort & Spa, all-inclusive, deluxe room with scheduled flights. From £1,099pp.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

Couples booking their wedding or honeymoon will receive a complimentary upgrade to the Honeymoon Suite.

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Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

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ropical Sky handles all types of holidays in all kinds of locations worldwide, whether you want to be eased into your new life on a white-sand beach in the Maldives, surrounded by the natural wonders of Kenya, have an elephant’s blessing in Thailand, enjoy the vibrant diversity of New York City or even have the whitest wedding in the snows of Iceland – the exciting choice is yours!

WORLDWIDE APPEAL

Wherever in the world you eventually settle down with your new partner, it’s the start that matters the most. Make sure you kick off your life of married bliss as you mean to go on – in style!

Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

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Why Kenya?

There’s a reason why William proposed to Kate in Kenya. Wide open plains, tropical Indian Ocean beaches and exotic colonial hideaways are just a few things this fascinating country has to offer couples.

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enya, renowned for its beautiful white beaches, also boasts a range of alternatives for those looking to get married or honeymoon in this magical country. For those who want something a little different, getting married on the equator with the backdrop of the magnificent Mount Kenya is an amazing option, and why not combine it with a balloon tour of the incredible landscape to celebrate your special day?

Perhaps you would rather enjoy the adventure of a luxury safari for your wedding, complete with five-star lodges, Masai guides and stunning views of the game and scenery. You could be

saying your vows in a truly magical location amongst the wildlife.

Of course nothing beats the beautiful tropical waters and white-sand beaches of Kenya’s coast. Whether you’re here for your romantic wedding on the beach or for spending some well-earned rest and relaxation on your honeymoon, Kenya’s coastline offers 500 kilometres of tranquil Indian Ocean waters to sample. From the pretty 14th century town of Kilifi on the north coast, which boasts some of the best beaches in the country, to the bustling resorts south of Mombasa, the coastal resorts offer luxury accommodation, unparalleled scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as sumptuous local cuisine and some of the world’s best hospitality.

Starting your new life together in this amazing country couldn’t be more perfect and after experiencing the incredible wildlife and beautiful beaches of Kenya, you really won’t want to leave.

Book it!

Stay 7 nights on a 4X4 safari holiday with scheduled flights and game drives. From £1,459pp.

Save £200pp. Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9384.

20 20 wwwBridesAbroad.tv Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk

or call 0844 332 9384 quoting BR0412

RealWEDDINGS

The colour of

Africa

Gemma and Graeme’s african safari wedding

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hen Gemma Leigh Shanks and Graeme Tatters from Washington, Tyne & Wear decided to tie the knot abroad, they chose a colourful African Masai blessing in Kenya for a truly unforgettable ceremony.

Finding ‘the one’ We met 12 years ago when I worked at Iceland Frozen foods whilst studying. There was a spark between us from day one.

The proposal When we’d been together for nearly 10 years, I told Graeme how I felt on a walk home from a friend’s party, so, in the middle of the night, we agreed to get married. Not very romantic – but it was typical of us, we’re not exactly traditionalists!

Location, location

blessing. Tropical Sky advised on legal requirements, what to take on safari and even how to pack my wedding dress.

Getting the look I wanted a designer number but needed something more practical for the heat. I eventually found the perfect dress, which was light and floaty. We didn’t really bother about the tradition of something old, something new etc., though on the day we joked that we pulled it off – my wedding ring was old, my dress was new, I had to borrow some tissues and my garter was blue! I styled my own hair, but we had no electricity in our tent so my tongs were useless!

The details I didn’t have flowers, but the cake was the most delicious chocolate.

The ceremony

We’re not the church wedding type and chose to marry abroad once I saw that we could have a destination wedding for the price of a small wedding in the UK. I fell in love with the idea of a safari wedding and researched online to get quotes.

The planning We booked everything through Tropical Sky – their wedding coordinator, SarahJayne, was extremely helpful and when she emailed information on Porini Lion Camp we knew it was perfect. The wedding package included everything from the ceremony, cake and intimate meal to a local Masai

The ceremony took place under our wedding tree in the middle of the Masai Mara. The Masai blessing and the ceremony combined took about an hour and a half – we realised nothing is quick in Kenya and that’s why we loved it! Pastor George married us – he was a lovely, funny man who made us laugh and smile – sometimes unintentionally! We were both ‘adopted’ by local Masai families; my new mum gave me away. For the Masai blessing they dressed us up in traditional wedding attire, and I was blessed with goat milk by the elders. The singing and dancing during the ceremony was incredible – when we watch our video it’s like being back there!

The reception After the ceremony, we were taken by jeep to a nearby hippo pool whilst the team set up for lunch. We had a traditional feast with a few guests we had invited to join us from the safari lodge. We handed our camera to one of our guests and our video camera to the other. The photos are an amazing memory of our wedding day, which was beyond my wildest dreams – it was one surprise after the other and I loved every second of it.

The honeymoon We married on our third and last full day on safari. The following day we had our last morning game drive and headed to the coast to spend 10 nights in Mombasa.

On budget?

Including everything from the wedding, honeymoon and spending money to the party once we were home, we came in just under budget at £9,000!

Further information Wedding Venue: Porini Lion Camp, Kenya Wedding Planning: Sarah Jayne at Tropical Sky. www.tropicalsky.co.uk

Book it!

Stay 6 nights at Porini, including all-inclusive safari with scheduled flights plus Classic Wedding Package. From £2,919pp.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9384.

Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9384 quoting BR0412

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WoW VoWs

USA

America is the number one destination for weddings – with a variety of wedding venues and options as diverse as the nation

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rom romantic weddings in New York’s Central Park to shotgun ceremonies in the Wild West, you can have the celebration of your dreams themed to perfectly suit your individuality.

and members of the Thompson Twins?

Graceland Wedding Chapel has been part of the Las Vegas strip for over 50 years and is now a landmark and home to the original Elvis Wedding that has become a Las Vegas tradition.

Graceland Wedding Chapel

Wedding packages

Why not have a rock and roll-themed ceremony to remember with Elvis to conduct your fabulously unique service at Graceland Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas, a favourite of celebrities including Jon Bon Jovi, Billy Ray Cyrus

Choose from two wedding options – the standard (£340) and the deluxe (£1,000).

The deluxe option includes a ceremony at the Graceland Wedding Chapel with wedding music provided; bride’s rose bouquet and groom’s boutonniere; wedding photos; marriage certificate holder;

chauffeured limousine transfers; internet broadcast of your wedding ceremony; one-hour limousine tour with photography; bride’s hair and makeup and a choice of restaurants for bride and groom. And whether you are an early bird or a night owl, you can choose a time to suit – weddings are available 9am to 11pm – seven days a week!

Book it! stay five nights at the 4* Luxor Hotel, room only in a deluxe tower room, plus Graceland’s Chapel standard wedding package from £1,159pp.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9386.

Red Rock Canyon For a wedding in an unusual location, be whisked away together to exchange vows in the desert. Your limousine will pick you up from your hotel in Las Vegas and take you to the marriage licence bureau to obtain your marriage licence, after which you will be driven to the beautiful Red Rock Canyon, an outdoor paradise famous for its red sand rock and desert grandeur. From a vantage point overlooking the Red Rock Valley, you 22

will exchange your marriage vows. Best time for this breathtaking matrimonial experience is morning or late afternoon!

The Red Rock Canyon wedding package costs £760 and includes a desert wedding service overlooking the Red Rock Canyon; chauffeured limousine transfers between Red Rock Canyon and your hotel; rose bouquet and boutonnière; photographs and DVD for lasting memories of an amazing day!

Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9386 quoting BR0412

RealWEDDINGS

Land ahoy in

Manhattan!

All aboard Mandy and Martin’s love boat!

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hen Mandy Pedley married Martin suckling, the couple from Birmingham decided that the bright lights of NewYork would float their boat, and exchanged their vows aboard the famous New York World Yacht.

Finding ‘the one’ We met at our local bar on New Year’s Eve, and it was love at first sight!

The proposal Martin ran me a nice bath, with a glass of wine on the side, whilst cooking a meal.

After the second course he dropped down on one knee and proposed. It came as a massive shock as we never really talked about marriage, so you can imagine my surprise!

Location location We went to New York a few years ago and fell in love with the city. so once we got engaged, New York was our number one choice to get married.We had difficulty choosing the location as there were so many places in NY we could get married –

Central Park, top of the rock and the Empire state building. Then we came across the New York World Yacht, and we both just looked at each other with a smile and knew this was the location.

The planning We had the fantastic services of Tropical sky and our co-ordinator (Nicola searle) who was brilliant and helped organise our dream wedding, keeping us informed with everything that was being organised in America and letting us know what we should be doing ourselves back in England.

We took seven guests with us who stayed at the Marriott Marquis, the Pod hotel and the Amsterdam Court.

Getting the look The wedding dress was from a shop called Jessica Rose. It was an ivory dress that was off the shoulder and had a long train.

I opted for a tiara instead of a veil and had white gold earrings, matching bracelet and a necklace my dad brought me. My something old – my nan’s engagement ring; something new – my dress; something borrowed – a small ivory purse and something blue – the garter! I also had a stylist in America to do hair and makeup for myself and the bridesmaid.

Groom & bridesmaids The groom wore black trousers and black jacket with a white shirt, ivory waistcoat and burgundy cravat with matching hankerchief and the bridesmaid wore a long burgundy satin dress.

The ceremony The wedding ceremony took place on the top deck of the yacht. It lasted 30 minutes

and we were married by the Minister from City Clerk. My mom gave me away. After the ceremony we had a complimentary wedding cake from the captain.

Magic moments The photographer was amazing, capturing shots of us against the city skyline! We have a total of 81 glossed photos and love every one of them – and we had the whole wedding videoed so we can watch it and remind ourselves what a phenomenal day it was!

On budget?

The wedding cost a total of £7,000. That was right on budget!

The honeymoon We stayed on in New York for a couple of days after the wedding. However, we are taking our real honeymoon later this year!

Further information Wedding planner: Nicola Searle and Orysia Germak, Tourism Marketing Inc Venue: NewYork World Yacht Photographer: Michelle Varela/Jang Photographers

Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9386 quoting BR0412

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RealWEDDINGS

Mauritius Married in

Justine and Beau’s barefoot wedding in the Indian Ocean

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hen Justine Barsley from Buckhurst Hill in Essex met Beau Tyler they were just children. Little did they know that they would one day tie the knot on a tropical beach in Mauritius.

Finding ‘the one’ We had known each other since we were children but hadn’t seen each other for 20 years until we met again at a family BBQ. I was now a widow holding my two-weekold baby girl, Katie. Life had become hard when I lost my first husband to cancer during my pregnancy. But life has to go on… and when I met Beau at the BBQ, he made me smile for the first time in a long time. We kept in touch and he put me back together again and was there for me. Life is now very beautiful, with two children and a lot of love and happiness, finally everything feels complete; I believe we were meant to meet that day at the BBQ.

The proposal I had two! One was in a horse and carriage in Central Park New York with Katie but without a ring! The other was with the ring as we sat on a bench by the river Thames one summer’s evening, eating ice cream and cuddling as we listened to a busker playing Spanish guitar music. It wasn’t a total surprise though, as I was pregnant with son Jake at the time!

Location location All we cared about was being together and having the children with us. We are a very close family. We wanted somewhere with a beautiful beach that would cater for children.

The planning The wedding planner at the hotel was amazing and offered lots of help and ideas.

The only item I arranged for myself was the photographer. I liaised with the wedding planner before I left home, running through the day and getting a full schedule of timings. Once everything was confirmed that was it – no stress except the packing!

The guests Seven guests came along, which was a lovely surprise as we thought it would just be us. I think when you have an overseas wedding you have to be prepared that guests may not be able to afford to come.

Getting the look I had my dress made as I didn’t want a traditional wedding dress. I was getting married on a beach and wanted the dress to reflect that. I wanted the look of an evening dress but in white and made of chiffon.

I didn’t wear shoes so the dress draped to the floor with a small train. I wore white flowers in my hair, a bracelet and diamond pendant and some diamond stud earrings I borrowed from my sister-in-law. For my hair, I decided on a tousled beach look, which a family friend created for me with a curling wand! The hotel beautician did my makeup – it’s important to use a good foundation to last in the warm weather. I carried a white posy made from white orchids and roses and we also had flowers on the beach and a flower arch for the ceremony.

Groom & bridesmaids We all carried the same look, very relaxed and all in white. Jake and Katie had the role of walking in front of me in bare feet, scattering rose petals. Katie wore a white chiffon dress and white flowers in her hair like me and Jake and Beau both wore white linen trousers and shirts.

The ceremony

children. Our cake was simple with just a flower on top and we had fresh flowers on the table, beach lanterns and candles with petals scattered on the floor. We had Mauritian dancers whilst we drank champagne and danced with them and had a three-piece band, singing and playing guitar throughout dinner.

Magical memories We didn’t want to use the hotel photographer, we used Daniel Decotter at Clear Cut Photography instead who was fantastic, relaxed and very professional. We also had a DVD made, which our friends and family have seen many times since. My favourite photo is of me and Beau laughing and walking down the beach – being able to laugh with someone you love is a precious feeling and the photo reminds me how lucky I am!

On budget?

It was a special day – so we ended up over budget!

Further information Wedding planner: Sandrine Bouquet and Sarah-Jayne Hawkins at Tropical Sky Venue: Shandrani Resort and Spa, Mauritius Photographer: Daniel Decotter, Clear Cut Productions.

Book it!

Stay 7 nights at the 5* Shandrani, all-inclusive, superior room with scheduled flights plus Classic Wedding Package. From £2,089pp.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

The ceremony lasted around 30 minutes and took place on a secluded part of the beach that was perfect for our small group – a very intimate ceremony under palm trees to shade us from the midday sun.

The reception We had a lunch in one of the beach restaurants after our photos, followed by a speed boat trip. We returned to a beach BBQ with lobster, steak, salads and fantastic deserts – and pasta for the

Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

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BeachcomBer honeymoon gems in mauritius SHanDrani, MauritiuS

Shandrani prides itself on its deluxe fully inclusive luxury. Its ‘Serenity Plus’ concept offers value and choice from the moment you step into the resort right up to your departure.

Located in the unspoiled south coast on a private peninsula, Shandrani has three beaches on the Blue Bay Marine Park.

Book it! Stay seven nights at the 5* Shandrani, Mauritius in an all-inclusive superior room with Air Mauritius scheduled flights from £1,599pp. Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

Le Mauricia A sun worshipper’s paradise, Le Mauricia sits on the northern coast of Mauritius. The hotel projects a cosmopolitan and relaxed atmosphere, with a ‘simple yet comfortably cosy’ ethos. It is more family-focused than others and features a ‘wellness centre’ styled on a serene oasis. It is made up of cabins designed to resemble nomadic tents, cleverly designed around a shaded pool.

Book it! Stay seven nights at the 4* Le Mauricia in a half board standard room with Air Mauritius scheduled flights from £1,239pp.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

paraDiS HoteL & GoLf cLub One of the finest luxury hotels in Mauritius, Paradis enjoys a superb location on the island’s south-west tip. The greatest leisure resort in Mauritius, Paradis offers superb accommodation fringed by a pure white sand beach and the island’s largest lagoon.

Book it! Stay seven nights at the 5* Paradis Hotel & Golf Club in a half board de luxe room with Air Mauritius scheduled flights from £1,559pp. Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

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Dinarobin HoteL GoLf & Spa An elegant 5* resort, a lot of attention to detail has been paid at Dinarobin to create a haven of peace and tranquillity.

Located on one of the most scenic shorelines in Mauritius, the resort features stylish accommodation that blends harmoniously into the lush tropical gardens.

Book it! Stay seven nights at the 5* Dinarobin Hotel Golf & Spa in a half board junior suite with Air Mauritius scheduled flights from £1,729pp. Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

Le Victoria Le Victoria is a vibrant destination, sitting between the tourist hub of Grand-Baie and Port-Louis, the capital city. It is one of the most popular family resorts on the island, renowned for its spacious sea-facing rooms, a laid-back atmosphere and a wide range of activities that appeals to all ages. For your ultimate peace of mind, purchase the hotel’s optional Beachcomber all-inclusive package.

Book it! Stay seven nights at the 4* Le Victoria in a half board superior first floor room with Air Mauritius scheduled flights from £1,329pp. Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

GettinG tHere Take your wedding dress and golf clubs free when you fly with Air Mauritius to your destination wedding and honeymoon in paradise!

Air Mauritius operates four weekly non-stop flights from London Heathrow, with regional connections available from around the UK. It is the only airline to offer non-stop overnight flights into London Heathrow.

Air Mauritius not only flies you to Mauritius but also offers twin-centre holiday options – why not combine a beach stay in Mauritius with a Kenya and South Africa Safari? Or stop in Mauritius en route to Perth?

trou aux bicHeS reSort Spa Regarded by many to be the most romantic hotel on Mauritius, Trou Aux Biches sits on a two-kilometre strip of white sandy beach, and only neighbours are a turquoise lagoon with crystal-clear waters and a 35-hectare tropical garden. Accommodation comes as lavish chalet-style suites, built in crescents, and private villas.

Book it! Stay seven nights at the 5* Trou Aux Biches Resort Spa in a half board junior suite with Air Mauritius scheduled flights from £1,559pp. Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

The airline’s two next-generation A340300E* aircraft offer you the choice of either Business Class or Economy class cabins.

All Economy Class seats feature individual 9” touch screen seat-back video screens and two hot meals during your flight, but why not indulge yourself and experience Business Class on your 12-hour flight to paradise? Features of Business Class include 34 Cocoon style seats at 60” pitch; lie-flat bed stretching 175” and airport lounge access before departure in Mauritius and London, plus a gourmet meal service. * Available on flights to/from London Heathrow only.

Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

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WHY MALDIVES?

Looking for a blessing or the perfect honeymoon? You will fall in love with the Maldives as well as each other. These Robinson Crusoe islands in the Indian Ocean are the ultimate playground for newlyweds

F

rom your luxurious beach or water villa you can spot couples snorkelling together, holding hands over coral reefs teeming with marine life. Down on the beach, lovers snuggle in rope hammocks, sheltered from the midday sun by coco palms.

And as the sun sets, the beach is transformed into a candlelit restaurant as couples dine al fresco beneath clear moonlit skies. Is this honeymoon heaven? Yes. This is the Maldives.

Although you can’t legally marry in the Maldives, the breath-taking scenery and sheer luxury of the resorts makes this a wonderful place for beach blessings and romantic non-religious ceremonies, which can be arranged through your hotel or wedding planner.

These ceremonies can take place in a choice of exotic locations — from unspoilt powder beaches and tiny sandbank islands to catamarans at sea and even during diving excursions on the coral reefs.

28 28 wwwBridesAbroad.tv Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk

or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

Maldives Centara Grand island resort Wedding Package If you want a wedding blessing in paradise, or to renew your vows, the resort provides for every detail you could possibly need for your special day with a range of wedding packages to choose from and a plethora of ideas for celebratory themes, menus and decorations. These include decorative ice sculptures, a flower arch, traditional garlands and corsages for the wedding party, guest books and multi-tiered cake.

Book it!

Stay six nights at the all-inclusive 5* Maldives Centara Grand Maldives beach suite with scheduled flights.

From £1,579pp.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

S

et amongst the perfect islands and crystal clear waters of South Ari Atoll (Alifu Atoll), Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa, Maldives delivers premium 5* experience and the ultimate in barefoot luxury. The resort offers 112 beach-front and over-water suites & villas, three pools, the tranquil Spa Cenvaree,

plus a range of activities including sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and tennis. Diving enthusiasts will love the excellent house reef complete with a dedicated sunken ship wreck. Three restaurants offer superb dining with a selection of Asian & Western cuisine including the delicious seafood restaurant, perched above the pristine lagoon.

Maldives Kuredu island resort

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dyllically situated in an area famous for its beauty and abundant marine life, Kuredu Island Resort sits on the northern reef of Lhaviyani atol in the Maldives. Choose from nine different room types with exotic bungalows and wonderful villas lining the white sand beach. Steal away for a mouth-watering treat at any of the four restaurants, two coffee bars and five bars.

You can enjoy an extensive range of activities including the new six-hole pitch & putt golf course, full length driving range, floodlit tennis court, beach volleyball and a selection of water sports. Or you can relax and be pampered at Duniye Spa and also enjoy a complimentary sunset cruise during your stay.

Wedding Package The resort’s vow renewal package allows you to create your own dream day to suit your individuality, with the backdrop of a white sand beach with the deep blue Indian Ocean lapping against the shore.

many other options. The resort can also offer tailor-made supplement alternatives on their luxury yacht ‘Britt’ or on a deserted dream island!

The package includes the ceremony, decoration of your room, flowers and live Maldivian drum beats. You can then add a romantic candlelit dinner, bride’s makeup, cake, bottle of champagne or

Stay six nights at the all-inclusive 4* Kuredu Island Resort in a garden bungalow with scheduled flights.

From £1,169pp.

Call Tropical Sky 0844 332 9351.

Book it!

www.BridesAbroad.tv Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412 2929

RealWEDDINGS

Bali Hi!

Vicky and Leon’s gorgeous beach wedding

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Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

W

hen Vicky Raffan, a radiographer from Glasgow, tied the knot with partner Leon Georgonikos, a teacher from the same Scottish city, they chose beautiful Bali as the dream location for their wedding ceremony. Vicky recalls her wonderful Big Day in paradise…

Finding ‘the one’ We met through friends whilst at university in Glasgow and have been inseparable ever since. We had an instant attraction and connection over our love of music and travelling.

The proposal Leon proposed at the edge of the Grand Canyon during an American road trip holiday in 2010. We were taking pictures of us looking over the Colorado River when he produced a ‘dummy’ diamond ring and asked if I’d like to be Mrs Georgonikos. On the four-hour drive from Las Vegas to the canyon that morning he hadn’t let slip once – I was so surprised, I had to take a step away from the edge! The next day we hit Tiffany & Co to choose the real engagement ring together.

Location, location We always wanted a small intimate wedding and after falling in love with the Far East when we got stuck there for a month by the infamous volcano in 2010, we vowed to return there to get married one day. There are many beautiful places in the Far East but Bali just stood out for both of us.

The planning Once we decided on our Bali wedding and honeymoon locations, we contacted Nicola Searle, a Wedding Specialist at Tropical Sky, who arranged absolutely everything for us from start to finish. She did an amazing job and made our wedding totally stress-free. Tropical Sky arranged

everything perfectly, keeping us right with all our legal documents and requirements for getting married in Bali. We chose to have a romantic wedding with just the two of us and arranged to have a wedding celebration for friends and family in Glasgow on our return to bring all our Scottish and Greek families together.

Getting the look My wedding dress was the Adelaide dress from Maggie Sottero. I loved the pearl and Swarvoski crystal embellishment on the corset and the beautiful train. I wore a side tiara with diamantés which glistened in the sun; lovely jewellery from Pilgrim; and ivory, open-toe satin shoes. My hair was done by Jerry at the hotel salon; he was brilliant and I was so happy with the result. Leon had a kilt made for him by Slanj in Glasgow. He chose the Scotland Forever tartan since there is no Georgonikos tartan. My bouquet comprised the white frangipani flowers and violet Singapore orchids and Leon’s buttonhole was a single Singapore orchid.

The ceremony Our ceremony took place at the beachfront wedding bale at the Nusa Dua Resort & Spa just before sunset – we had a religious ceremony conducted by a pastor of the Balinese Church, followed by a civil ceremony which lasted an hour. We had a procession from our room to the ceremony venue with Balinese bridesmaids and musicians and traditional Balinese Rhindik music during the ceremony.

The reception That evening we had a candlelit six-course traditional Balinese meal with champagne in the wedding bale on the beach, with our own private butler in attendance. Our cake was a strawberry cream sponge, decorated with a tower of frangipani flowers. Before going for our celebratory meal, Leon played Foo Fighters ‘Everlong’ in our room, and we had our First Dance. We had this again in Glasgow in front of our guests.

Magic memories The wedding co-ordinator, Santika, from Bali tours and travel and the hotel coordinator, Dwi, did an amazing job and made sure there were no problems. The whole day was so special from start to finish and we enjoyed every minute of it.

We had two photographers as part of the wedding package – our photos, with the clear blue sky and stunning sea view in the background, summed up how happy and relaxed we were.

The honeymoon We spent a few days after the wedding in a private villa in another area of Bali, followed by two days in Singapore and two days in Kuala Lumpur. Finally we spent a week in Langkawi staying in a rainforest chalet with friendly dusky leaf monkeys as our neighbours.

On budget We set a target and thanks to Tropical Sky’s perfect planning, we met this.

Further information Wedding planner: Nicola Searle, Tropical Sky Venue: Nusa Dua Beach Resort & Spa, Bali Photographer: Provided by the Nusa Dua Resort & Spa

Book it!

Stay 13 nights at the 5* Bali Nusa Dua Resort & Spa, B&B, deluxe room, with scheduled flights plus Classic Wedding Package including four Balinese girls in costume, three musicians & a candlelit, sixcourse dinner for the wedding couple. From £5,040pp.

Call Tropical Sky on 0844 332 9351.

Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call 0844 332 9351 quoting BR0412

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Tropical Sky – we’re with you all the way Personalised service Quality holidays

Couples Sans Souci, Jamaica

Exceptional value

• Caribbean • Indian Ocean • Asia • Australasia • Africa • Middle East • The Americas •

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www.tropicalsky.co.uk

or call

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~ Scu b a D i v i n g w i t h pro fe s s i o n a l i n s tr uc tio n ~ Wind sur f ing with p r o f essio na l instr uc tion ~ Ten n i s wi t h p ro fe s s i o n a l i n s t ru c t i o n ~ 2 4 ho ur g o ur met d ining ~ Pr emium b r a nd d r inks ~ G o l f ( 18 h o l e s ) ~ S e l e c t io n o f o f f -site ex c ur sio ns ~ Wed d ing s* * M a n d a to r y $ 2 5 0 fo r m a r r i a g e l i c e n s e

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