Bridesabroad issue16

BRIDES ABROAD WEDDING & HONEYMOON INSPIRATION

Issue 16

C ARIBBEAN STYLE! Tie the Knot

Antigua & St Lucia totally tropical beach ceremonies

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WOW WEDDING IDEAS FOR CEREMONIES IN THE SUN

Viva Italia Tuscancy & the Amalfi Coast honeymoons for true romantics

❤ Magical venues

❤ Tropical table settings ❤ Sensational accessories ❤ Gorgeous gowns

City Moons in South East Asia

Tokyo, Bangkok, Saigon & Hanoi

Weddings in

Malta

intoxicating blend of history & luxury

REAL WEDDINGS

Be inspired!

Mediterranean, Caribbean & Indian Ocean

Wedding planning!

Honeymoon Savings www.BridesAbroad.tv

£3.99

Legal advice, worldwide weather, beauty & planning countdown

WOOlet the HONEYMOON

WEDDINGS*

and best of all EVERYTHING’S INCLUDED

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BEGIN

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Welcome

Credits Published by Joint Venture Media Ltd Tel: 01937 58 48 92

Publisher Martin Cody-Owen martin@jointventuremedia.tv

Editor-in-Chief

AND CONGRATULATIONS! It’s been a long hot summer in the UK, and the world’s a better place when it’s bathed in sunshine. But we can’t guarantee the same for next year. Our country, lovely though it is, can never be trusted for its fine, warm weather!

We’ve all seen photographs of the bride’s veil blowing across the bridesmaid’s faces; ushers sheltering under umbrellas and the groom and best man looking distinctly dishevelled against cold, grey skies. Is that what you are willing to accept in a typical British wedding?

If not, follow your dream to have blue skies and the Caribbean Sea lapping at your feet and palm trees swaying over your head as you walk down the aisle to the sound of the calypso beat. Or maybe say ‘I do’ with the sun dipping into the Indian Ocean to provide a magnificent tropical sunset as your backdrop. It’s your day – so you decide!

OK, so where do you fancy for your big day abroad and, of course, your honeymoon? If you want to stay closer to home, and be assured of friends and family being in attendance, then Malta and Gozo are the perfect choice. These island gems in the Mediterranean are just a short-haul hop from the UK. (p.22). Or how about the equally romantic sun-drenched Greek island of Crete? (p.36).

For couples seeking totally tropical paradise, then the Caribbean is always a firm favourite, and the breathtakingly beautiful islands of Antigua (p.46) and St Lucia (p.68) are two of the most popular destinations for UK brides, with warm tropical breezes, white sandy beaches, turquoise ocean and swaying palms. The islands offer a choice of gorgeous beaches, delightful wedding chapels and romantic gazebos in luxury hotels for the ultimate destination weddings. What’s not to like?

With beautiful beaches in mind, the Indian Ocean island of Mauritius is another top location for weddings and honeymoons where you will be spoiled for choice with beachside luxury hotels, long hot days, turquoise waters and wild dolphins! (p.76).

Of course, not all honeymooners want to settle for a sandy stretch of beach. Those of you looking for new adventures will find something exciting and different in the cities of South East Asia, where you can discover new cultures, local specialties and gourmet delights, thrilling shopping experiences, sightseeing and amazing nightlife – all with the exotic flavour of the Far East in Tokyo, Hanoi, Saigon and Bangkok. (p.114) Looking for somewhere closer to home, oozing passion, romance, fiery Latin love and the Dolce Vita? Then you’ll love Italy. What a truly ‘molto bello’ place for a memorable honeymoon! (p.106).

We also offer tips, advice and inspiration for wedding planning and honeymoon fashions and beauty from our team of experts.

Best of all, luxury doesn’t have to cost an arm or a leg – check out our Honeymoon Offers and save ££££ (p.122) Start your adventure with Brides Abroad.

Enjoy!

Terri Cody-Owen terri@bridesabroad.tv

Assistant to Publisher Patsy Owen

Contributors Lisa Burton Bart Conley Holly Catz Lily Hardwick Martin Cody-Owen Alan Benstock Laura Meredith

Photography Dreamstime Ann Granger, Wadali Digital Hanna Monika Wedding Photography Rudy at Heritage Awali, Mauritius Ted Martin Sandals Resorts (Snapshots) iStock Photos Tomi Kriste (www.dubrovnikweddingphotographer.com) Pierre

Carr

Design Anil Verma Chris Peach

Printer Warners Midlands Plc www.warners.co.uk

Advertising Sales Joint Venture Media Ltd 01937 58 48 92 enquiries@bridesabroad.tv Terri Cody-Owen EDITOR terri@bridesabroad.tv

Director of Sales

To Subscribe to Brides Abroad for just £22 for 6 issues, email Martin@JointVentureMedia.tv

Sylvia Oakley 0113 284 31 00 Sylvia@bridesabroad.tv

0800 211 8255 www.BridesAbroad.tv

Cover

©Joint Venture Media Ltd. 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.

Dreamstime

Contents IN THIS ISSUE 10 20 44 74 89

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Wedding and honeymoon news We're loving‌ Steal the Mediterranean style Steal the Caribbean style Steal the Indian Ocean style

REAL WEDDINGS

28

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Maltese magic

40

Family fun in Crete

52

Vows in a Caribbean paradise

58

Tie the knot - Antigua Style

70

Sand ceremony at Sandals

80

Tropical vows in Mauritius

Francesca and Daryl exchange vows in a magnificent Maltese villa

Christina and John's family and friends join them as they marry in the Greek sunshine

Paul and Chloe tie the knot under a flowerstrewn gazebo to the sound of Antigua's lapping waves

Sharron and Edward say: "I do" in Antigua with the sand between their toes

Omega and Alexander marry at Sandals resort in the St Lucian sunshine

Elouise and Darren's family wedding on a gorgeous Mauritian beach

70

WEDDING DESTINATIONS

36

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Marvellous Malta Marry in Malta or its sister island of Gozo for a dazzling Mediterranean island wedding

36

Charming Crete Choose the rustic island of Crete for your destination wedding in the Greek sunshine

46

Antigua – paradise found!

From the stunning turquoise hues of the Caribbean Sea to the dazzling white sands, Antigua offers a colourful, picture perfect setting for your nuptials

68

St Lucia – the Caribbean love island Marry on this magnificent West Indian island with the famous Pitons as an iconic backdrop

76

Mauritius – gem in the Indian Ocean Mauritius will enchant you and your guests, whatever time of year you marry on this gorgeous tropical island

PLANNING

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114

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Weather permitting

96

Pop the question

98

Wedding beauty countdown

Your worldwide weather guide.

Your questions answered by expert wedding planners Diary for planning your bridal beauty programme

the planner 100 Ask Tips and advise from Lisa Burton of the Bridal Consultancy wedding planners

HONEYMOONS 104

Honeymoon beauty mistakes Follow our beauty guide to avoid those common holiday beauty problems

04

106

To Italy with love From the vineyards of Tuscany to the stunning coastline of Amalfi, Italy offers the honeymoon of a lifetime – and its just a short flight away!

112

Hotel Mediterraneo In its prime position on Italy's Amalfi Coast, Hotel Mediterraneo offers total luxury and breathtaking views

114

4 Far East favourites Don't settle for the seaside, paint the town red in four of South East Asia's most exciting cities

120

Villa Italia Discover romance at Villa Italia, one of Majorca's most enchanting boutique hotels

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Honeymoon hideaway Honeymooners can snuggle up in their own private cocoon at the beautifully renovated Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa, located on the crescent shaped Dhonakulhi Island, the largest in the Maldives. Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa offers a choice of 103 villas – from beautiful beachfront retreats to over-water villas that have been designed to create the impression of a floating paradise. The resort’s Honeymoon Package offers a personal 24-hour butler service and villas with extensive sundecks and infinity pools complete with magical Indian Ocean views. The package also includes a welcoming fruit platter, candle-lit dinner, picnic lunch, Champagne, wedding cake and a couple’s spa

massage, a Newlywed Turn Down on arrival, special room decoration and a rose-petal bath. Honeymooners are also offered the chance to seal their union with a traditional Maldivian Wedding Blessing, with romantic touches, such as a garland of flowers and a romantic sunset cruise on a traditional wooden sailing boat followed by candlelit dinner on the beach.

Book it!

Prices start from £4,214 per couple for a 7-night stay in a Deluxe Water Villa on a bed and breakfast basis, including return speedboat transfers. www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com

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

Chic safari Enjoy an African wildlife honeymoon in luxurious surroundings at the newly-opened Linkwasha Camp, with a new six night Victoria Falls and Hwange Safari offered by adventure and wildlife tour operator Gane and Marshall.

The itinerary starts with two nights in the iconic Victoria Falls Hotel in Zimbabwe, where guests can take part in optional activities, from guided tours of the Falls to sunset river cruises, white water rafting and micro-flights. They then travel to Hwange National Park, where the stylish Linkwasha Camp is situated in the park's remote eastern region. Linkwasha Camp overlooks the African plains and features eight luxurious guest tents and a family-sized tent, all fitted out with contemporary furnishings with huge comfy beds and private sundecks. Hwange National Park offers much more than year-round ‘Big 5’ game-viewing – the park boasts large herds of elephant and buffalo, and other wildlife is prolific, including over 400 species of birds.

Book it!

Prices from £1,958-£2,758 pp based on two sharing.

Includes two nights B&B at Victoria Falls Hotel, four nights fully-inclusive at Linkwasha Camp, internal flights and taxes, private transport, National Park entrance fees and guides. Return flights from the UK to Victoria Falls are additional, and start from around £800 pp. www.ganeandmarshall.com

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“I Do” cruises Engaged couples can exchange vows while sailing into the sunset with Norwegian Cruise Line, which is offering weddings on the waves, performed by the ship’s captain on Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway, and on Norwegian Escape when she launches this autumn. Norwegian’s ‘Wedding At Sea’ package includes bridal bouquet and matching boutonniere, Champagne, wedding cake, a marriage license and a wedding coordinator to assist every step of the way. Norwegian Cruise Line also offers Destination Ceremonies in spectacular ports of call – such as by a glacier in Alaska; on a Caribbean beach or with spectacular views in Santorini. You can also opt for a Harbour-side ceremony, performed on board while the ship is docked in select ports of call. Norwegian also offers a variety of wedding receptions – from a cocktail reception with open bar to a four-course sit-down luncheon with wine service. Honeymooners can also enjoy Norwegian’s Freestyle Cruising with romantic dinners in the signature restaurants; couples spa treatments in Norwegian’s Mandara Spas and adventurous port excursions.

Book it!

For further information, availability and package pricing for weddings email NCL@royalwed.com.

Or log on to www.ncl.co.uk

Balinese Sculpture Gardens Alila Ubud, an enchanting hillside retreat overlooking the Ayung River, is perfect for couples that are in touch with their spiritual side. Offering a unique and romantic setting, the wedding planners at Alila Ubud can arrange wedding ceremonies in a traditional Balinese Sculpture Garden – a ‘secret garden’ inspired wedding with a jungle twist. Set in the hillside of Payangan, and close to the artistic centre of Ubud, weddings at Alila Ubud come complete with a Balinese priest and authentic decorations, such as bamboo, frangipani and cendana flower arrangements. After the traditional ceremony the couple will enjoy an intimate candlelight dinner on the Plantation Terrace.

Weddings at Alila Ubud are nothing but magical – perfect for creative, cultured couples.

Book it!

Alila Ubud offers the Spirit of Bali Wedding Package in the Sculpture Garden from £4,800 for up to ten guests. www.BridesAbroad.tv 11

Maldivian moonlight There’s nothing more romantic than a beautiful starlit sky on your honeymoon, especially with the Park Hyatt Hadahaa, Maldives as the backdrop! The gorgeous resort has launched moonlight activities that will captivate newlyweds, including night-time snorkeling and starlit cruises. Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa is one of the Maldives leading dive resorts, surrounded by a healthy reef, which is even more stunning at night when its bioluminescent plankton twinkles like millions of tiny blue stars in the shallows, leaving night snorkelers truly awestruck as waves appear to glow in dark. The one-hour guided Moonlight Snorkeling Tour offers a glimpse of sea nightlife - dormant during

the day - sharing the open seas and creating dazzling displays.

Alternatively, couples preferring to remain dry can join a Starlit Cruise with Champagne and canapés to toast the exquisite sunset before the night sky comes to life with the majesty of the stars and zero light pollution.

Book it!

Tropical Sky is offering a 7-night stay, B&B from £2,419 pp including flights. www.tropicalsky.co.uk. A one-hour Starlit Cruise costs £223 per couple. A one-hour Night Snorkeling guided tour starts at £51 per guest.

“Yes” in the BVI If you want to be sure your loved one will say “Yes” to your wedding proposal, do it in style with the new ‘Just Bring the Ring’ package at Rosewood Little Dix Bay – a very special service to help you plan a fairy-tale engagement. Rosewood Little Dix Bay enjoys a stunning setting on Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, surrounded by crystal blue sea, rolling hills and soft white sand beaches that will set a romantic backdrop to your proposal. The ‘Just Bring the Ring’ package offers dedicated assistance from the resort’s expert team, and a professional photographer to capture the proposal from a hidden location – getting down on one knee has never been easier! On proposal day, the staff will set up the location beautifully and coordinate spa treatments, activities and outings to make the day extra memorable. If you choose Little Dix Bay for your wedding too, all couples who got engaged at the resort will receive a complementary welcome cocktail party for their guests or spa treatments.

Book it!

The four-night ‘Just Bring the Ring’ package starts at £440.00 per night, based upon double occupancy. www.littledixbay.com

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COUPLES TOWER ISLE

COUPLES SWEPT AWAY

COUPLES NEGRIL

COUPLES SANS SOUCI

...the world’s most romantic holiday...

The Caribbean’s legendary all-inclusive resorts for discerning romantics, Bohemenian chic with barefoot luxury.

Expect more because we include more...

Your holiday package includes FREE ~ Water skiing with professional instrucion ~ Scuba diving with professional instruction ~ ~ Scuba diver resort course ~ Windsur�ng with professional instruction ~ ~

Views of Bangkok With an awe-inspiring panorama of the Bangkok skyline as a backdrop, the rooftop restaurant, Vertigo at Banyan Tree Bangkok is an iconic venue for couples seeking a unique, heart-pumping wedding experience. Sophisticated seafood dishes and premium wines from the restaurant’s cellars will create a stylish celebration dinner for you and your guests. And for couples who really want to embrace the local culture with the distinctive Eastern flavour and style of Thailand, they can choose to say “I do” with a Royal Thai wedding – dressed in traditional attire complemented by a

Thai-inspired feast at the hotel’s legendary Saffron restaurant.

Banyan Tree Bangkok offers a sanctuary for the senses with unparalleled views of the cityscape, elegant guest rooms, excellent service and world-renowned spa facilities.

Book it!

Prices for an Eternity Wedding package featuring a traditional Thai wedding experience starts from around £1,3334 inclusive of accommodation. www.banyantree.com

Hens survive the Lake District Planning an unforgettable Hen Party? Then let your hens embrace their ‘wild side’ before they are pampered in the luxury spa at Armathwaite Hall Country House Hotel & Spa. This gracious hotel set in a gorgeous English stately home, nestles in 400 acres of woodland in the Lake District, close to the banks of Bassenthwaite Lake. Its Wilderness Therapy Break is a holistic package which will be a unique, bonding experience for your Hens. Led by wilderness expert Ben McNutt, they will be given a gentle introduction to survival techniques when living in the wilds, learning skills such as creating fire by friction, using carving tools, building natural shelters, cooking on a camp-fire and re-connecting with nature. Your hens will then spend the

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night in a Wild Camp. The following lunchtime they will leave the wilderness behind and check into The Spa at Armathwaite Hall to soak away the hard-won aches of wilderness living in the outdoor hot-tub, be pampered with a spa treatment and enjoy fine dining at the hotel before retiring to their luxurious guest rooms. The following day they can make full use of the hotel’s facilities before returning home.

Book it!

Price from £430 per person, based on two sharing a clubroom. reservations@armathwaite-hall.com www.armathwaite-hall.com

Private wedding in Mauritius If you dream of a grand tropical wedding with friends and family to celebrate your big day, then head to Angsana Balaclava Mauritius, where couples can exclusively hire the entire resort for their wedding party of up to 100 guests. Set against the romantic island backdrop of Mauritius, the boutique resort offers a magnificent setting and unique wedding package giving couples the opportunity to celebrate their nuptials over three days with friends and family in complete privacy, surrounded by white sands and the Indian Ocean. The fun-filled 3-night itinerary includes a catamaran cruise, sundowners, wedding reception, an intimate ceremony on the beach and a spectacular firework display. The resort's wedding planner will take care of every detail so that you and your guests can relax and enjoy your big day.

Book it!

The 'Ultimate Destination Wedding' package, which includes exclusive use of Angsana Balaclava Mauritius, starts from £19,020 per night for up to 100 guests (approx. £190 per person) based on a minimum three-night booking. www.angsana.com/balaclava

On your bike!

Biking is fun, green and good for your health (an hour of moderate cycling burns about 600 calories), so what better way to spend your honeymoon than in the saddle, for your first cycling adventure as man and wife! Bike tours are becoming increasingly popular and couples that are in decent shape can enjoy cycling tours as well as expert cyclists. Cycling tours for all skill levels offer amazing access to wonderful places by bike including: Mediterranean Island Hopping – in Sardinia and Corsica on a spectacular coastal route (www.ciclismoclassico.com);

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Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula – through a medieval landscape of castles and vineyards (www.ciclismoclassico.com); Glacier to Yellowstone Cycling – crossing the Continental Divide then hugging the Rocky Mountains to Yellowstone National Park (http//thecyclinghouse.com); Provence by Bike – highlighting some of the most beautiful villages in France (www.rideandseek.com); Chile Wine Adventure – exploring the Santiago Valley region travelling through vineyards and the Andes. (www.adventure-life.com)

Aurora · Adventure · Stargazing · Events · Romance · Gourmet · Luxury

A four-star luxury resort in South Iceland perfectly located to witness the Northern Lights.

A perfect setting for weddings, honeymoons, anniversaries, birthdays, and romantic getaways.

www.hotelranga.is

Hotel Rangá · 851 Hella · Tel. +354 487 5700 · hotelranga@hotelranga.is

Glamour on the beach There can be few beach venues more glamorous than Nikki Beach Marbella for the ultimate ‘cool’ wedding. Now the world-famous beach club is more stylish than ever after renovations including a stylish new pool area.

Located on one of the finest white sandy beaches on Spain’s Costa del Sol, Nikki Beach Marbella is totally chic with its plush signature all white sun beds, drapes and white teepees. The Beach Club has become a hotspot for the world’s Jet Set, VIPs and celebrities looking to immerse in the Nikki Beach lifestyle. You too can feel like a star on your wedding day at this iconic venue, which is licensed to host weddings and boasts a truly glamorous atmosphere. Receptions in the restaurant offer an alfresco dining experience overlooking the seafront, with a menus inspired by Nikki Beach’s international locations including delicious Sushi platters, the finest Champagne and an extensive cocktail list.

Book it! www.nikkibeach.com/marbella

In love with Croatia From idyllic seaside ceremonies to historical churches and palatial palace nuptials – you will be in love with Croatia as well as with each other! Blessed with beautiful Mediterranean weather, fine foods and picturesque landscapes, Croatia is a perfect destination for dream weddings – whether it's an intimate ceremony or a grand event. Croatia is just a short flight away, so it's easy for family and friends to join you on your special day. Dubrovnik is the most popular choice for couples to tie the knot, it offers picturesque views of the Adriatic and a choice of gorgeous wedding venues – beautiful weddings can be arranged through expert wedding planners Dubrovnik Luxury Weddings Ltd (www.dubrovnikluxuryweddings.com).

Another favourite location is Zagreb, known as the 'city of a million hearts' – it's the perfect place to get your pulses racing on the most magical day of your life. www.croatia.hr Photo: Tomi Kriste www.dubrovnikweddingphotographer.com

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A day to remember!

Sit back and enjoy your big day while we organise the wedding of your dreams at this splendid heaven at the gateway to Gozo!

GRAND HOTEL MGARR - GOZO

+356 2156 3840 www.grandhotelmalta.com events@grandhotelmalta.com

place to

on your Wedding Day

db Catering + Events offers you with a turnkey solution to ďŹ t your Wedding requirements like a velvet glove, within the Maltese Islands. We help you create the wedding you want and the memories that will remain forever, with you and your guests. We will be there for you from your initial dreams to the going away.

We take care of every detail and concern, each one of your wishes.

And of course, we will help you select the best location in Malta for the happiest day of your life.

We invite you to get in touch with us on (+356) 2350 3750 or contact us on events@dbhotelsresorts.com

www.dbhotelsresorts.com

Main image: Upper Terrace at db Seabank Resort + Spa, Mellieha, Malta First image from Top: Casablanca Suite at db San Antonio Hotel + Spa, Qawra, Malta Second image from Top: Kosy Lounge & Terrace at db San Antonio Hotel + Spa, Qawra, Malta Third image from Top: Grotta Terrace at db Seabank Resort + Spa, Mellieha, Malta

Marvellous Malta If you want so much more than simply sun, sea and sand then Malta, with its glorious heritage, offers an incredible choice of wedding venues and an abundance of historical buildings, picturesque piazzas and dramatic landscapes to keep honeymooners enthralled

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The beautiful islands of Malta and its neighbouring Gozo and Comino, form a tiny archipelago nestling at the heart of the Mediterranean, which have a rich blend of cultures – from Moorish to Italian, and British too – as a consequence of frequent past invasions by those nations who have tried to make Malta their own.

Lynn songs are still played at the pretty Upper Barrakka Gardens, looking out across the stunning harbour. Or visit the pretty fishing village of Marsaxlokk, about 35 minutes from Valetta on the south east corner of Malta and see the pretty painted boats bobbing about in the bay. Don’t forget to take your camera!

With sunshine throughout the year, ease of communication (because everyone speaks English as their second language) and a wealth of historical architecture that will make a glorious backdrop to your photographs, a wedding or honeymoon, or both, in Malta could be the perfect choice.

Gorgeous Gozo

With such a history, Malta offers a wide choice of venues and settings for weddings – from grand palazzo and villas to quiet beaches and gardens.

Historical Malta There is plenty for you and your guests to see and do – film fans can visit the locations where Gladiator and Troy were filmed, foodies will be impressed with local wines and seafood and sun worshippers will love to simply stretch out on a beach with a good book or swim in the inky blue Mediterranean sea.

Valletta, the islands’ capital, is a glorious city of golden stone, flanked on either side by magnificent natural harbours. Within this fortress the Renaissance streets unfold in an elegant grid, lined with princely palaces and dominated by the spectacular Co-Cathedral of St John. It is a place to learn about the fascinating history of the island and the Knight of the order of St John, followed by quiet reflection over a coffee or lazy lunches whilst people watching. It’s also a good place to browse the shops and markets – you can find amazing bargains here, such as stylish and fashionable jeans for just £5!

Culture vultures will love the Hagar Qim and Mnandra temples, built on the coast of the Mediterranean over a thousand years before Stone Henge. Older family members will be intrigued by the wealth of Second World War history on the island, which was an incredibly important strategic port. Vera

Gozo, Malta’s charming sister island, accessed by ferry or seaplane, provides a tranquil haven for a tempo and scene change from Mainland Malta. Gozo is greener, more rural and smaller with fishing and agriculture as its main industries and Baroque churches and old stone farmhouses dotting the countryside. Take the opportunity to explore Gozo's rugged landscape and spectacular coastline, which boasts some of the Mediterranean's best dive sites. The island also comes complete with historical sites, forts and amazing panoramas, as well as one of the archipelago's best-preserved prehistoric temples, Ġgantija. At the western tip are wild and wave battered cliffs with dramatic rock formations known as Dwejra, some of the island’s natural landmarks can be found there including the stunning Azure Window and the Blue Hole – romantic locations for memorable wedding photographs!

TOP 6

Best time to visit For mild, warm weather, when the island is lush and green, go from mid February to mid-May. For sunshine, and a more North African desert feel, go mid-May, June, September or October. Avoid July and August, when it’s 40 degrees and humid and can get crowded with families and cruise ships.

Further information www.visitmalta.com www.visitgozo.com

THINGS TO DO

1

Stroll through the Silent City Get a taste of traditional Malta in Mdina, situated on a hill at the centre of Malta.

Meander through the charming, narrow cobbled streets within the medieval walled city – nicknamed Silent City because no cars are allowed – though wedding cars are one of the exceptions!

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Explore the underground temple This UNESCO World Heritage site of Hal Saflieni Hypogeum is the only prehistoric underground temple in the world. This historical burial ground is packed with statues, tombs, rock carvings, chambers and passages carved out of the rock. Don't forget to visit the Oracle Room where a woman's voice won't echo, but spookily, a man's will!

3

Party in Paceville Visit Paceville after dark – it’s a must for those looking for nightlife. Whether you’re up for a pint at the pub or a night of letting loose on the dance floor, you will not be disappointed. Paceville, the nightlife district, offers everything from bars to restaurants and nightclubs.

4

Gaze through the Azure window Take a trip to Gozo to see the magnificent Azure Window – a natural limestone arch situated near Dwejra Bay on the Inland Sea. The arch was created after two limestone sea caves collapsed, and is popular with scuba divers.

5

Discover the Blue Lagoon Take a ferry day trip to the car-free island of Comino, between Malta and Gozo that is virtually uninhabited with just one hotel. Most people come to admire the Blue Lagoon, which is a sheltered inlet of water, popular with sun worshippers and snorkelers.

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Be pampered at the spa Treat yourselves to a sensuous Shirodhara Indian head massage at the famous Kempinski Gozo Ayurvedic Spa. Relax as warm oil is drizzled over your forehead and massaged into your hair – the sensation is sublime! www.kempinski.com www.BridesAbroad.tv 23

Photo courtesy of Sarah Young, www.weddingplannermalta.com

Marry in Malta In the Maltese culture marriages are lavish affairs, but whether you are planning an intimate wedding for close family and friends, or an extravaganza for 150 guests, you can have the wedding of your dreams on the beautiful Maltese islands.

From beachside ceremonies to church weddings and traditional receptions, you can have a tailor-made wedding package to suite your individual taste and style.

Photo courtesy of Villa Arrigo

Whilst some venues offer a full wedding planning service, there are a number of freelance expert Wedding Planners on the island, including Dream Days Weddings (www.dream-days.com) and Sarah Young of Wedding Planner

Photo courtesy of Grand Hotel Excelsior

Malta (www.weddingplannermalta.com), both can help with all aspects of holding a wedding in Malta.

one of the luxury resort hotels on the island – there are many choices to suit all tastes and budgets.

Beautiful venues

Roman Catholic Church If you are planning a Roman Catholic wedding, you can request information about the requirements for marriage in the church for foreign nationals by contacting The Curia on +356 2124 5350.

Should you like a religious ceremony there are over 365 churches dotted around the three islands from grand basilicas to small parish churches in rural locations. The elegance and splendour of one of Malta’s baroque churches will provide a stunning setting for your special day, while the many charming countryside chapels offer picture perfect locations. Although the religion in Malta is Roman Catholic, couples from other denominations or those preferring a civil ceremony or blessing will be able to find plenty of venues to suit their tastes and beliefs. A number of the local priests and clergy are happy to conduct services in English.

Alternative venues for a non-religious wedding or a blessing are easy to find in Malta – you can marry in one of the baroque palaces and stunning gardens, or perhaps a beautiful farmhouse in Gozo, or on a beautiful sandy beach. Or marry at

Anglican marriages There are two Anglican churches on Malta. To get married there, one partner must be a baptized Anglican. Marriage blessings can be arranged in some circumstances where one of the partners has been divorced. Contact the chaplaincy well in advance, before any arrangements have been made: Assistant Chaplain Revd Jeffrey Williams, Chaplaincy Office +356 2122 5714, Anglican@onvol.net www.anglicanmalta.org.

Jewish Marriages Contact Mr Ohayon for further details via the synagogue on Enrico Mazzi Street or call: +356 2123 7309.

The Legals

Travel in Style If you need to travel to the wedding venue the bride can use one of the many historical vehicles that can be found on the island, including the open-topped Austin Healy used by HM The Queen when, as Princess Elizabeth, she and Prince Phillip lived in Malta as newly-weds in the 1940's. Alternatively bride and groom can travel on a karozzin – a traditional Maltese horse drawn carriage. For the wedding party a trip in a vintage Maltese Bus is a wonderful experience for everyone.

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Marriages in Malta are subject to the provisions of the Marriage Act 1975. For UK and other European Citizens, it is legally binding under their own legal jurisdictions.

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There is no minimum residency requirement for getting married in Malta.

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You will need to visit the Marriage Registry in either Valletta or Gozo on arrival on Malta, prior to your wedding day. At this visit you will have to produce your passports.

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As English is one of the two official languages in Malta all paper work and the ceremony will be in English with no translation costs.

The application to marry must be made no less than six weeks and no more than three months before your proposed marriage.

SOMETHING BLU W I T H 3 0 0 D AY S O F S U N S H I N E A N D T H E S H I M M E R I N G M E D I T E R R A N E A N S E A A S A B A C K D R O P, M A L TA O F F E R S J U S T T H E R I G H T A M O U N T O F M A G I C O N Y O U R S P E C I A L D AY. B O O K W I T H U S A N D TA K E A D V A N T A G E O F T H I S O F F E R E X C L U S I V E T O B R I D E S A B R O A D M A G A Z I N E : E N J O Y A C O M P L I M E N TA R Y N I G H T A T T H E R E S O R T A N D A C O M P L I M E N TA RY B OT T L E O F S PA R K L I N G W I N E O N YO U R W E D D I N G N I G H T A S W E L L A S A F R E E RO O M UPGRADE WHEN GETTING MARRIED WITH US!

W H E N S AY I N G I D O

HOTELS DESIGNED TO SAY YES! Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands radissonblu.com/goldensandsresort-malta T: +356 2356 0000 E: weddings.gs@islandhotels.com T&Cs: free upgrade is subject to availability. Other terms and conditions may apply.

Stunning Venues

DB San Antonio Hotel Ta Cenc Hotel & Spa Overlooking majestic cliffs with magnificent views over Malta and the island of Comino, Ta Cenc Hotel is a romantic village-style venue, which is perfect for romantic island weddings and dream honeymoons. The 84-roomed 5-star hotel blends effortlessly into its tranquil, natural surroundings on Gozo’s highest point, spreading over idyllic countryside rich in flora and fauna with its own rocky beach and medieval palazzo within its grounds. www.tacenc.com

San Antonio Hotel & Spa is a stylish modern hotel overlooking St. Paul’s Bay in Malta, and offers excellent facilities for weddings of all sizes either by the pool or in the events and banqueting suites.

The wedding party can indulge in pre and post wedding papering and massages at the hotel’s Moroccan-style beauty spa and enjoy the hotel’s facilities which include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, fitness centre and use of a nearby private sandy beach, just 150 yards away. www.dbhotelresorts.com

Grand Hotel Excesior Paradise Bay The Paradise Bay Resort Hotel, Malta is a beautiful setting for weddings, overlooking the Mediterranean and sister islands of Gozo and Comino. The hotel offers excellent accommodation in 276 guestrooms, all with sea views and balconies. It has its own beach with water sports, PADI diving school, tennis court, three outdoor pools and an indoor pool. The hotel offers first class banqueting facilities for wedding parties and a choice of indoor and outdoor venues including three halls and an extensive sun terrace. www.paradise-bay.com

The 5-star Grand Hotel Excelsior hotel is ideally situated on the doorstep of a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the capital city of Valletta, with its culture, art treasures, and historical sites. The hotel offers breathtaking views of Marsamxett harbour and Manoel Island, and is one of Malta’s most luxurious wedding venues offering gorgeous locations including the 16th Century Bastion Terrace, the Grand Ballroom and the pool-side Harbour View. A lavish suite with stunning panoramic sea views and special honeymoon treats, are the fairytale finish to a perfect day. www.excelsior.com.mt

Villa Arrigo

Radisson Blu Golden Sands

Located at San Pawl Tat Targa north of Naxxar, the impressive 19th century palazzo Villa Arrigo is beautifully restored and furnished with antique furniture and surrounded by secluded gardens, to provide the perfect setting for weddings. It is cool and peaceful with a magnificent water feature as one of its exclusive settings for ceremonies. Experienced staff can provide full wedding planning service for your special day. Whilst not offering accommodation for guests at the Villa there are many hotels nearby for family and friends. www.osbornecaterers.com

In a prime position overlooking one of Malta’s most perfect sandy beaches, the 5-star Radisson Blu Golden Sands is the perfect destination for romantic getaways. Say ‘I do’ with a gorgeous backdrop, and celebrate with an event organised by dedicated professionals. Honeymooners can stroll along the golden beach, treat themselves at Myoka spa, take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea or in one of the resort’s four pools. They can sit back, relax, then retreat to their luxurious bedroom at the end of a beautiful day! weddings.gs@islandhotels.com

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Your ideal venue

in the Mediterranean Island of Malta

T

he Grand Hotel Excelsior is located on the island of Malta, in the heart of the Mediterranean. Settled at the water’s edge within the limits of the historical city of Valletta, the hotel boasts remarkable views across Marsamxett Harbour. Valletta is proud of it’s history and heritage and has been awarded the European Capital of Culture 2018 making it a perfect destination.

Your wedding should be one of the most memorable days of your life, and there is no better background for this special day than the majestic walls of Valletta. The beauty of this historical city provides an ideal, charming and unique setting for your wedding.

Apart from its unparalleled location, Grand Hotel Excelsior is also complimented with remarkable harbour views and offers a number of venues to choose from, whether you wish for the reception to be held indoors or outdoors. Moreover, our team members take pride in delivering extraordinary service and will

strive to help you make your dream wedding come true.

To facilitate this process, our Weddings department has prepared a Celebration Wedding Package with prices starting from €5000 for up to 20 guests. This includes, for the bride and groom 7 nights’ accommodation in a bridal sea view suite on a bed and breakfast basis, the wedding ceremony and reception.

For the full package details, please contact the UK office.

You can also expect to receive a professional service throughout the lead up to your special day.

If you dream of a sunny climate and a Mediterranean location for your wedding contact our UK office on 01489 860161 or email ukoffice@excelsior.com.mt and we will make sure that these beautiful moments remain engraved in your memory forever.

M A LTA

REAL WEDDINGS

Francesca and Darryl say "I do" in a gorgeous Maltese villa 28 www.BridesAbroad.tv

Maltese

MAGIC After an unexpected wedding proposal on a mountaintop in New Zealand, it seemed only right that Francesca Valerio and Darryl Cawthorne, from Liverpool, should choose an equally beautiful location for their destination wedding – though this time closer to home in the gardens of a magnificent Maltese villa, with plenty of guests to join in their celebrations.

Finding ‘the one’ We met in Henry’s Bar, London, but it wasn’t quite love at first sight – he grew on me!

The proposal Darryl popped the question to me whilst we were on top of Frans Joseph Glacier, New Zealand, he was wearing a dodgy pair of walking boots and crampons (glad he didn’t go down on one knee as he might have slipped off!). He did take me by surprise through, his proposal was totally unexpected.

Location, location We decided to marry abroad rather than in the UK due to the cost and climate. We also wanted to go somewhere that neither of us had been before, so we chose Malta. We went there for a visit and fell in love with the island.

The planning We used the services of the wonderful Mark and Mariella of Dream Days to plan our wedding – we could not have done it without them! For our travel arrangements we used a mixture of Travelrepublic and Thomson. We did quite a bit of detailed forward planning for our wedding, from visiting Malta and checking out the venues to viewing possible hotels for guests to stay.

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REAL WEDDINGS The guests In the end we had 40 wedding guests – most stayed at the Hilton in St Julians. Most people we invited accepted and made a holiday out of it, which meant our celebrations lasted longer.

Getting the look I bought my wedding dress from Berkatex Brides, London – it was my dream dress, ivory and decorated in crystals which shimmered in the sun. I accessorised with a veil, tiara, jewellery and my cool pink shoes! I wore my Nanna’s necklace and my engagement ring – which was brought in New Zealand. I did my own make-up and my hair was done by a lovely hairdresser, who was recommended by Dream Days.

Something Old, Something New? My Old was Nanna’s necklace, New were the shoes, ‘Something Borrowed’ was my veil and ‘Something Blue’ was my engagement ring (topaz).

Groom & bridesmaids Darryl wore a light grey suit with pink shirt and matching pocket square. My sister was my only bridesmaid and she wore a fushia pink ‘swing’ dress.

The details For our wedding theme, as as we both love sweets, we themed each table with ‘retro’ sweets. Our cake was the cake of all cakes – a 3-tier chocolate cake wrapped in mixed chocolate fingers and decorated with Maltesers (of course) and mixed chocolate balls – It was amazing and we still talk about it today! Our wedding flowers were mixed colourful gerberas.

The ceremony The 20-minute wedding ceremony took place at the beautiful Villa Arrigo in Naxxar. We were married by a local registrar, and I was given away by my mum.

The reception We decorated the tables at the reception with mini gerberas similar to my wedding flowers, and each person’s namecard was made from an embarassing photo of them from their past, which we made up personally. The menu was delicious, for starter we served

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REAL WEDDINGS Ravioli with Champagne and mushroom sauce followed by a selection from the buffet table – which included Roast Beef with Bearnaise sauce; Honey Glazed Gammon leg; Chicken with Cashew nuts served with special fried rice; Dentici & Salmon fusion in a wine and basil sauce; Vegetarian dish; mixed green salad; stir fried vegetables; tomato & mozzarella salad; potatoes mayonnaise for the main course with dessets of Crepe Suzette in Grand Marnier and orange segments, plus typical Maltese sweet delicacies – and of course, THAT cake and free flowing wine!

The music of love

The honeymoon

We had a musical trio during the ceremony and a DJ for the evening, and for our First Dance we chose Michael Buble, Everything.

We stayed a week in total in Malta (with the wedding in the middle) and then went straight to Mexico for two weeks. We shared the week in Malta with all our friends and family and it was lovely and special to have all that time with everyone.

Photographic memories Dream Days recommended Paul, a local photographer – we met him at our hotel a couple of days before to discuss what we wanted etc. Our favourite photos are the ones Paul took after the ceremony in a local Maltese village, about 10 mins from Villa Arrigo he took some beautiful pictures of the two of us.

On budget?

The whole wedding cost about £15,000 (including our honeymoon in Mexico), which was right on budget.

Further information

Magic moments My favourite memory was saying “I do” and being pronounced as husband and wife. I think our funniest moments were travelling in a convertible Morris Minor on the way to the wedding with my mum and sister in scorching heat and the car doors coming open every time we hit a bump, then having to ask the driver to pull over so I could blow my nose! The only potential disaster was that I had laryngitis in the lead up to the wedding, but after eating a whole tub of Mannuka honey the day before, my voice luckily came back.

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WEDDING PLANNER Mark & Mariella Burton Dream Days Wedding Planners T : +356 7788 7700 M : +356 9962 7899 E : info@dream-days.com W : www.dream-days.com

VENUE Villa Arrigo, Naxxar, Malta

EST.1986

Advertising Feature

Romantic Gozo A gem in the Mediterranean

Wedding parties and honeymooners looking for a truly magical place to stay in Gozo will be delighted to discover the rustic charm of self-catering luxury villas in a picture perfect setting on the island Situated less than 30 minutes north west of the main island, Gozo is one of Southern Europe's last remaining gems, which its habitants preserve with pride. Despite being just 67 km2, Gozo offers a diversity of landscape and an extravagant richness in architecture, fashioned by 7000 years of history written by the Greeks, Romans, Spanish, French and the English, without forgetting the Knights of St. John. It's within this timeless backdrop that couples can write one of the most important pages of their lives, just like Peggy and Steve did last August.

Peggy and Steve tie the knot It was a warm, sunny day in August, just like any other day on Gozo, Malta's sister island.

However, for Peggy and Steve it was their wedding day, and they had decided to spend it on the idyllic island, choosing the team of experts at I DO KNOT as their trusted destination wedding planners. Following a very exciting morning, the bridal party was very busy getting ready until it was finally time for them to leave the luxury villas they were staying at and make their way to the ceremony location.

The beach looked like a scene from a fairytale: a small, secluded sandy beach with a white canopy and chairs complementing the red carpet and the jaw-dropping backdrop. After the ceremony, drinks were served and photographs

were taken. The entire party then made their way by vintage bus to another striking location for the festivities. The Salt Pans and surrounding area were transformed into a spectacular venue.

Dotted with hundreds of candles, the place became a romantic haven. The wedding tables were delightfully decorated with a scattering of pink faux diamonds and silver butterfly stencils, which brought it all together. The seating area was set up in bedouin style, with carpets and a multitude of comfy cushions for everyone to just sit and relax. It was an unforgettable event for the wedding party and another success story for the team at I DO KNOT. The couple's preferred accommodation was at the luxurious and unique Abraham's Farmhouses – a private complex in the pretty village of Xaghra, which comprises four houses, two apartments, a duplex and two impressive 300year-old farmhouses. The houses have been recently restored and furnished with modern amenities, yet retain all original features for a cozy stay. Abraham's Farmhouses offers complete privacy, yet is within easy reach of Gozo's cultural delights. With beautiful Mediterranean architecture, private pools, Wi-Fi, cable TV, aircondition and fully-equipped kitchens, Abraham Farmhouses ensures the perfect stay for newlyweds and their wedding guests.

DESTINATION WEDDING PLANNERS

www.idoknot.com petra@idoknot.com +356 7945 6954

www.abrahamgozofarmhouses.com info@abrahamgozofarmhouses.com +356 9921 6834

Marfa Road, Cirkewwa, MLH 9068, Malta T. (+356) 2152 1166 F. (+356) 2152 1153 E. events@paradise-bay.com

www.paradise-bay.com

Charming Crete

Couples seeking romantic venues for their weddings in the Mediterranean will discover magical settings on the Greek island of Crete – no wonder its one of Europe's most popular destinations for dream weddings and honeymoons 36 www.BridesAbroad.tv

Crete is a delightful Greek island boasting a stunning 1,000 kilometer-long coastline dotted with pretty coves, bays and peninsulas, fringed with soft, sandy beaches and lapped by the Mediterranean Sea. If you love the beach, Crete is perfect for spending lazy days splashing around in the glorious sunshine.

For beach lovers the stunning coastline beckons, with its secluded coves and large stretches of sand, and a choice of holiday resorts to suit all tastes and styles - from the exclusive VIP favourite of Elounda to the party atmosphere in Malia, and everything in between.

It is also the perfect place for couples to tie the knot – with its choice of beautiful locations and, best of all, Crete is close enough for your friends and family to travel with ease to join you for your wedding day. With a mild climate Crete is one of the sunniest Greek islands with more than 300 days of sunshine a year, so a Crete wedding is ideal for those wanting to escape the unreliable British weather!

However, culture vultures will be enthralled by Crete's rich history. It is home of the Minoan civilization, the oldest form of civilization in Europe, which has resulted in important archeological finds at Knossos, Phaistos and Gortys – sites which attract many visitors from around the world each year. Crete was also ruled

by Venetians for more than four centuries and the historic coastal towns of Rethymno and Chania bear a remarkable similarity to Venice. There are many other jewels just waiting to be discovered by the more adventurous couples and their wedding guests.

Newlyweds looking for a blissful Mediterranean honeymoon will also discover that this gorgeous island has so much more to offer than simply sun, sea and sand.

Crete is the largest island in Greece, and the southernmost island in the Mediterranean. It has four main areas: Chania, Heraklion, Lassithi and Rethymno, with two international airports offering daily flights from the UK to Heraklion and Chania. It enchants visitors with its mountainous landscapes, dramatic gorges (including the world-famous Samaria Gorge), beautiful beaches, rocky coves, quaint towns and traditional Greek villages.

You will enjoy excellent food in the many tavernas and, of course, an exciting nightlife! Crete has its own dialect and the locals are very proud of their Cretan origin, and will be sure to give you warm hospitality throughout your stay.

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO

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Visit Balos Lagoon – a rocky outcrop surrounded by white sand and the crystal clear Mediterranean. You can reach this stunning beach by car or boat, with daily cruises leaving from the port of Kissamos. Be sure to take your bikini and a camera – it's one of the most photographed sites in Greece!

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Feeling energetic? Take a hike through the breathtaking Samaria Gorge, supposedly the longest canyon in Europe, which passes through sheer cliffs, mountains and pine forests on an 11 mile trek that will probably take you around 7 hours – but well worth it! www.samaria.gr

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Stroll through the streets of Chania, the cultural capital of Crete and gaze at the beautiful mix of Venetian and Turkish architecture in Old Town.

Browse the wealth of art galleries and museums and visit its stunning harbor framed by its Venetian lighthouse.

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Discover the famous Minoan palace of Knossos, near Heraklion – it’s the most popular attraction on Crete, its ruins were uncovered in 1900 by the British archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans. It’s now reconstructed so you can walk through the palaces rooms and imagine what ancient life was like.

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Follow the famous footsteps of Leonardo di Caprio and Lady Gaga and visit the 'celebrity resort' of Elounda, then take the little blue sightseeing train from Elounda to the fishing village of Plaka and enjoy the breath-taking views from the coastal road en route, including Spinalonga, the former leper colony.

Crete is also the home of famous painter El Greco and Nikos Kazantzakis, the author of Zorba the Greek. Spinaloga, the former leper colony, also inspired British author Victoria Hislop to write her bestselling novel The Island.

Take your time to explore Crete's sights and cultures – or you may simply want to relax and bathe in the Cretian sunshine and have your senses filled with the delicious aromas of herbs, orange blossom and jasmine as you sip on a chilled glass of iced Raki. And why not? It's your honeymoon to enjoy in your own particular style!

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Marry in Crete A wedding in Crete offers both charm and character. Couples will find a warm welcome from the locals who will be delighted to share their beautiful island on your wedding day.

The Greeks take their weddings seriously, and Greek weddings in Crete are more spectacular than anywhere else in Greece – the big fat Greek wedding takes on new meaning in Crete where it is not uncommon to have 2,000 or more wedding guests! However, all sizes of weddings are catered for on the island, from grand events to intimate celebrations with just the two of you!

There are many beautiful wedding venues on the island of Crete – whether you want a religious wedding, a civil wedding or a blessing, you can find a stunning location to suit your style. Crete is home to some of the most picturesque beaches in Greece, so where better to have your wedding ceremony than on a soft, sandy beach with the sea lapping your toes and the gentle sea breeze keeping you cool?

Some of the stunning hotels on the island are ideal for civil weddings in their lush gardens, wedding pavilions, ballrooms, terraces, and private

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Legals The following documents are required by the Greek authorities for both church and civil weddings: Passport Certificate of Non Impediment (CNI) – proof that you are free to marry (must be issued no more than 6 months prior to the wedding.

Birth Certificate Decree Absolute or Death Certificate if relevant Deed Poll Certificate or Statutory Declaration if you have changed your name.

Adoption Certificate if relevant

Note: Documents emanating from the UK which are to be used in Greece must be officially legalised with an Apostille stamp (available for UK public documents from the Legalisation Office in London; (0 20 70081111) and then officially translated when in Greece via a certified translator or the Translations Bureau of the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs ( +30 210 3244036).

beaches, they provide the perfect backdrop and many offer Wedding Packages and personal wedding planners. Alternatively you can opt for a private villa wedding for the perfect mix of luxury, style and complete privacy in beautiful and unique settings.

There are a number of Wedding Planners based both in Crete and the UK who can help you arrange your perfect wedding on the island and help with all the documentation and find you the location of your dreams. These include the UK based Lisa Burton of the Bridal Consultants www.thebridalconsultants.com and Crete based Weddings in Crete www.weddingsincrete.co.uk.

Registration of the Marriage All marriages in Greece, whether civil or religious, must be registered by the bride and groom at the local Registrar's Office/Office of Vital Statistics (Lixiarhio) within 40 days following the ceremony. Once registered, a Marriage Certificate will be issued within three days and can be picked up or sent via mail. Marriages not registered have no legal validity.

REAL WEDDINGS

Family fun in

CRETE It was true romance when young lovers Christina Senior and John Turnbull began dating after meeting in the small village of Cotgrave, where they both lived.

However, it was eight years before the couple finally tied the knot, surrounded by close family and friends, in a beautiful beach ceremony on the Greek island of Crete

Christina and John exchange vows in Crete as family join in the celebrations 40 www.BridesAbroad.tv

Finding ‘the one’ We met eight years ago, I worked part time in a local grocery store in the village where we both live, which is were we first met.

As John describes our story – all it took was a smile from me whilst serving him at the till, and now here we are as Mr and Mrs Turnbull!

We were so young when we first met, but we both had that feeling that we were meant to be together. There was no pressure for us, we had wonderful and fun times as a young couple, and we have now grown into a married couple. I couldn’t imagine life without John!

The proposal As for the engagement, we are not a couple who like to make a fuss. John proposed simply whilst we were out for a meal in a restaurant, he couldn’t even wait until we had our desserts. We decided then to set a date and start planning for our wedding from that moment. His proposal was unexpected as I believed we were just out for a meal. I had a slight feeling throughout the night because he wasn’t himself, which I now put down to nerves.

He told my parents that he was going to wait until around Christmas to propose but he just couldn’t wait that long!

Location location The weather played a massive factor in our decision to marry abroad, as you cannot count on the British weather. The wedding isn’t a one day occasion when you get married abroad, as everyone is on their holiday, so you have such an incredible build up. The fact you can have so many family members together and they can get to know one another makes the atmosphere so much more comfortable and natural. The day that we had would not have been possible in the UK, and that’s what sold it for us. If I did it all again I would not change a thing, our day was perfect! We were quite adventurous as neither of us had visited any of the Greek Islands which was a risk in itself. I read up on all the islands and went with Crete as it is such a beautiful island, but also it’s the island which has the most days of sun throughout the year, and the idea of getting married on the beach really appealed to us!

The planning We used a wedding planner service, Lisa and Matt Burton from The Bridal Consultant, to help us arrange our wedding, as we believed this was the best option for a number of reasons. The main factor was the language barrier, so making sure we got the finer details sorted wasn’t an issue as we knew we had a professional to deal with all the arrangements. The entire process was made as stress-free as possible. I did not feel stressed at any point and wondered if I should have been, as everyone was commenting on how calm I was. The planning experience was great and so easy. Any questions I had were responded to quickly

by Lisa and Matt, which was very reassuring. In relation to travel arrangments we used a well known travel operator as this was the easiest option to cater for the various guests. They were able to attach the guest’s bookings onto the Bride and Groom’s main reservations to ensure everyone was situated together. We sorted as much out as possible back in the UK before heading out. We ended up sending a large parcel to Crete which included all favours and activity packs to keep the children entertained.

The guests We mainly invited family and our closest friends. We were so overwhelmed with the amount of people who joined us out in Crete. We had over 50 guests in total, which was amazing, as we thought we would have just 35 guests at a push! The majority of our guests stayed at the same hotel which was the El Greco White Palace. The hotel was gorgeous after recently being refurbished before our stay. www.BridesAbroad.tv 41

REAL WEDDINGS Getting the look My dress was made by Amy Hamilton, and purchased from Berketex in Nottingham. I didn’t know what type of dress I was after and tried on all different styles and kept a clear mind. After trying on around 20 dresses, I ended up choosing the first dress I tried on that day – I had known that was the one straight away, It was the only dress where my mum cried every time she saw me in it, and I tried it on three times in one day! My special item of jewellery was a pair of earrings, which were also my Something Borrowed from my mother – the earrings were brought for her wedding 10-years-ago, they went beautifully, it was lovely to think that such a small item can have a link to amazing occasions. I had a sylist do my hair and make up and it was worth it. It truly was the one day where I felt like a pampered princess, and I was able to enjoy the build-up of the day with my bridesmaids.

Something Old, Something New? My Something Old – a six pence coin given to me at my Hen party; Something New – my wedding dress; Something Borrowed – my mother’s earings; Something Blue – my garter.

Groom & bridesmaids The groom’s suit was purchased from Next, which consisted of trousers, waistcoat, shirt and cravat, no suit jacket as it would of been too hot.

John likes to dress up smart for occasions, so it only seemed right for him to get dressed up and be the impressive groom. For the men we incorporated our coral colour theme in their ties and cravats.

I purchased my bridesmaid dresses from a high street retailer as I think they provide a better fit and require less alterations. I wanted the dresses to have a Grecian style to them so I chose off the shoulder maxi dresses in coral, which were from New Look. I got amazing responses from all the bridesmaids when they tried them on, which was a huge relief (as there is usually one you can’t please).

The details We didn’t have a theme – except perhaps ‘chic’, what we really wanted from the day was a fun vibe – we brought miniature games for each table for the adults and made little activity packs for the children so all age groups were kept entertained. After some gentle research on the internet I decided on a mixture of coral roses and gerbera’s. I was so happy with the flowers and how they blended so well with the coral theme, I had lots of lovely comments. The wedding cake consisted of cupcakes with a small cake topper which incorporated our theme colour coral.

The ceremony The ceremony was on a beach, the weather was beautiful with a light sea breeze to keep us all cool. It was fairly short, which suited us as there were a number of children, and as we all know they don’t like to be seated for too long. We were married by the vice mayor of Rethymno, who read the ceremony in Greek and the Bridal Consultant played their part as translators. My cousin, who was one of the bridesmaids, also read a lovely poem during the ceremony, which was a nice personal touch. My dad gave me away – he was so nervous beforehand, which is certainly not his usual character. However, he gave a moving speech and played a very special part in the day.

The reception The reception was held at a venue just off the beach called Palm Spring Gardens. The tables were set up within the gardens with an addition of an activity table, which is a must for young guests to keep them 42 www.BridesAbroad.tv

entertained for the meal. When the sun had set we moved back onto the beach for a beach party. Food is always tricky, so to try and please all the guests we picked a menu with plenty of choice, including bread and oils, cold and hot appetisers, salad, mixed grill with potatoes and vegetables for main course and dessert. There was so much choice and Greek elements were clear within the menu, which was great.

The music of love Our First Dance was to Sweet Thing by Van Morrision which is a moving song for us as a couple. I did struggle with dancing on the sand, but we did the best with it. We had a surprise for our guests and provided them with a firework display, which caught many people’s attention. We also had a DJ throughout the night.

Photographic memories Our photos were provided courtsey of Hanna Monika Wedding Photography, they were amazing - the photographers were so passionate about capturing the perfect photo, which really paid off when we saw the end result.

Magic moments There were so many great memories! We kept certain aspects of the wedding a surprise for our guests, such as the fireworks. It was fantastic to see everyone’s expression and hear great comments! The day overall is our best memory and we have some wonderful photos to remind us of it.

Funniest memories We had a sit down meal at the Palm Spring Gardens and then moved onto the evening beach party. Some of the older guests were not too sure, however they were the ones that really got into it! I even caught a few guests making sand angels. The photos tell it all about the funny dance moves and the glow sticks provided for guests.

On budget?

With planning so far in advance it gave us the opportunity to buy bits as we saw them, which helped us spread the cost out, and as such the budget went out of the window. I did find myself looking for inspiration on the internet and coming across some great ideas, such as glow sticks for the beach party which were additional costs, but well worth it!

The honeymoon We decided to have a separate honeymoon later in the year and enjoyed the rest of the time after the wedding as a family holiday.

We wanted to make the most of the time we had with our family and friends coming together to celebrate a great occasion.

Further information WEDDING PLANNERS UK The Bridal Consultant www.thebridalconsultants.com

WEDDING CO-ORDINATORS, CRETE Moments Weddings and Events

VENUE Palm Spring Gardens

PHOTOGRAPHY Hanna Monika Wedding Photography

www.BridesAbroad.tv 43

Steal the

Mediterranean

Heart earrings, £550 www.77diamonds.com

Style Think lace, hearts and flowers for your romantic wedding in the Mediterranean – whether it's a beautiful ceremony in a rustic chapel or vows down on the beach

Heart broach

by Allusions www.bhs.co.uk

Bark table decoration, £10 www.theweddingofyourdreams.co.uk

Silver puffed heart pendant, £25 www.in-spaces.com

Bracelet, £14.99 www.whatsabouttown.com

Heart light holder £6.95 www.dotcomgiftshop.com

Lace shoes, £99 www.phase-eight.com

Lace clutch, £59 www.phase-eight.com

44 www.BridesAbroad.tv

Dress, Desert Rose collection www.julievino.com

Advertising Feature

The Wedding of Your Dreams In The Hotel of Your Dreams

Celebrate your wedding on Crete at the St. Nicolas Bay Hotel on the terrace of the hotel’s beach side chapel. Say ‘I do’ in this dreamy location with the blue waters of the Cretan Sea glinting in the background.

The sumptuous Honeymoon Suite is sheer elegance with an exceptional personal service and attention to detail. The spacious terrace next to the pool, the intimate atmosphere and the luxury all combine to create memories of your Crete honeymoon that will stay with you forever.

Celebrations are tailor-made, whether a couple is planning a romantic wedding or a festive family celebration. St. Nicolas

Bay Resort Hotel has at your disposal the guest service team dedicated to providing couples with personalized attention to meet any special requests.

The St Nicolas Bay offers a number of fascinating outdoor venues for the wedding of your dreams for just the two of you or for your friends and relatives. Culinary options alongside your choice of music, the services of a professional photographer and even a fireworks display can also be arranged on request. Flowers for all occasions and wedding table decorations are created by the hotel’s expert florist to be tailor-made particular requirements.

Life is a collection of experiences – Let us be your guide Further information St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas Aghios Nikolaos, Crete 72100, Greece T: +30.28410.90200 Email: reservations@stnicolasbay.gr www.stnicolasbay.gr www.thalassavillas.gr

ANTIGUA – paradise found!

Known as the 'Romance Capital of the Caribbean', Antigua and Barbuda are a match made in heaven for honeymooners, and couples wanting to tie the knot 46 www.BridesAbroad.tv

As the plane comes in to land in Antigua, you will have no doubt that you have arrived in paradise – the tranquil Caribbean Sea shimmers below in a magnificent shade of turquoise that takes your breath away, whilst the tropical vegetation is dotted with pretty Caribbean-style houses painted in equally vibrant colours. No wonder Antigua is a firm favourite for weddings and honeymoons.

Alternatively go zip-lining through the rainforests (www.antiguarainforest.com), hike to the summit of Mount Obama and discover the famous sightseeing on the island. We highly recommend you rent a car for a day – it’s the best way to see the sights at your own pace. However there

Perhaps the most outstanding thing about Antigua is the friendly welcome from the islanders, who are one of the happiest races of people you will ever meet.

Antigua and Barbuda is a twin-island nation and was named the Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination by the World Travel Awards in 2013, and it’s easy to see why – it boasts a rich heritage, plenty of culture and is renowned for its warm hospitality, charm and sophistication, as well as offering an abundance of exciting and relaxing pursuits and sightseeing opportunities to suit everyone.

The islands also boasts some of the best beaches in the world – with a choice of 365 white sandy beaches, so you can relax on a different beach every day of the year, should you want to! Antigua and Barbuda also has some of the world’s best accommodation to suit your individual style – from luxurious hotels and villas to charming cottages and boutique hotels.

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO

1 2

Visit the market in St John's – a colourful covered market with an abundance of Caribbean fruit and vegetables as well as souvenirs to take home.

3

Drive down Fig Tree Drive – a road just outside the town of Liberta. This area of green rainforest is like the Garden of Eden and is lined with tropical fruit trees – guavas, mangoes, pineapple, oranges and coconuts.

4

Take a day trip to Barbuda – Tropical Adventures offer a 'Barbuda by Sea' tour that includes a 90-minute trip on a power catamaran, lunch and Frigate Bird Sanctuary tour.

HONEYMOON BLISS! While your time away swimming in pristine turquoise waters and relaxing on the beach, or have an adventure with energetic activities on land and sea.

Indulge in watersports – from sailing and snorkeling among the coral reefs to a kayak tour, hire a boat or swim with friendly stingrays. Discover some of the best beaches on the island, including Jolly Beach, Half Moon Bay, Turner’s Beach and Darkwood Beach, in fact you can find gorgeous beaches at every turn – Antigua’s main claim to fame is the quality of its white sand shores!

Adopt a donkey at the Donkey Sanctuary near St John's. Have your photo taken with your donkey and receive an official adoption certificate.

5

Swim with the Stingrays at Stingray City where you can pet and feed the world's most friendly Stingrays in their natural environment and snorkel on the colourful coral reefs.

are a number of organized island tours available, including Safari Discovery Tour (www.tropicalad.com).

SIGHTSEEING EXCURSIONS For shopping, a trip to Heritage Quay at the port of St John’s is essential, with its duty-free shops, bars and restaurants.

There are usually a number of super-sized cruise ships docked in the port, so it’s always a thriving hub of activity.

Another absolute must is a visit to English Harbour, with its world-famous Nelson’s Dockyard named after Admiral Horatio Nelson. This is Antigua’s most prized historical site, and is not only a monument to the past, but also a focus of activity with museums, shops and restaurants, housed in historical old buildings, plus the legendary Admiral’s Inn – no visit to the Dockyard is complete without lunch on the terrace of this graceful old building that is now a luxury hotel and restaurant. English Harbour is a year-round mooring for yachts and Gin Palaces of the rich and famous.

After visiting Nelson’s Dockyard, take a trip up to Shirley Heights, 492 ft above sea level, to view the magnificent sunset.

Once a military look-out point, it is now a place to relax and toast the sunset with a couple of drinks at The Lookout Bar and restaurant and admire the panoramic views of English Harbour below. If you want to party, climb up to Shirley Heights at sunset any Sunday evening, when the crowds gather for a BBQ, drinks and plenty of fun and merriment! www.shirleyheightslookout.com

NATURAL WONDERS For breathtaking splendor, visit Devil’s Bridge on the east coast of Antigua. This is a gigantic limestone arch, which forms a ‘bridge’ at the head of Indian Creek where the Caribbean meets the Atlantic, with blow-holes and spouting surf. Legend says that if you throw two eggs into the water to boil, the devil (who is said to be down there) would keep one and return the other!

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If you are an animal lover, be sure to visit Antigua’s Donkey Sanctuary, home to more than 150 donkeys. Here, the neglected, roaming donkeys find a safe haven where they will receive food, care and plenty of love! You can adopt a donkey too and have a certificate to prove it!

ISLAND ADVENTURES Take a boat trip out to Antigua’s offshore islands with a picnic – a ferry service operates to Great Bird island from Shell Beach Marina – depending on when you visit you can often have the entire island to yourselves! The nearby Guoiana Island also has a wide sandy beach and further along the coast, Green Island is particularly attractive, as is Prickley Pear island. All are easily accessible by boat and make a great day trip.

Barbuda, however, is a must! This back-tonature island is blessed with miles of deserted and secluded pink sand beaches and boasts the famous Codrington Lagoon National Park – its lagoon supports one of the world’s largest colonies of frigate birds, which are spectacular to see with their wingspans of up to nearly three metres!

Getting there is easy. Barbuda is just a short boat trip from Antigua with the Barbuda Express Ferry or take a Tropical Adventures Tour by fast-powered catamaran. Or, if you prefer you can fly there in less than 20-minutes by plane.

dedicated wedding team to take care of all the arrangements. Some hotels even offer free wedding packages.

You will have no difficulty in finding your perfect wedding venue – from sun-kissed beaches to lush tropical gardens. Most people choose to marry in their hotel grounds, villa gardens or on the beach.

Your wedding reception can be anything from Champagne and canapes round the pool to a romantic wedding breakfast on the sands.

However, if you prefer traditional nuptials with a Caribbean twist, Antigua can cater for religious ceremonies too, offering a choice of gorgeous Anglican churches in picture-perfect settings. To marry in a church you will need to allow additional time and fulfill certain church formalities, which include permission from the individual church authority – some may ask that the couple attend pre-nuptial consultations too.

The legals Your wedding coordinator or tour operator will help to ensure that you have the right documentation and paperwork so that your marriage is legally recognized back home.

You will need: Valid passports for both parties Divorce decree if divorced Original marriage and death certificates if widowed Both parties to be 16 and over, if under 18, written parental consent is required Original documents, not copies Two or more witnesses

Marriage fees You also need to pay a registration fee of US$ 40 (approx. £25) to the courthouse in the new government buildings in St John's. Plus an application fee for a special marriage license of US$ 150 (approx. £97.50) and the Marriage Officer's fee of US$ 50 (approx. £26)

MARRY IN ANTIGUA All the ingredients for romance can be found in Antigua and Barbuda, and getting married here is a breeze. With no residency requirements, you can be exchanging your vows on a beautiful palm-fringed beach within the hour…

Thanks to the island's worthy reputation as a lover's paradise, almost all hotels in Antigua offer wedding and honeymoon packages and many have their own

48 www.BridesAbroad.tv

Getting there The Brides Abroad team flew to Antigua from Manchester direct with Thomas Cook Airlines. Book.thomascookairlines.com

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BLUE WATERS The warmest of welcomes awaits couples at the plush Blue Waters resort, a gorgeous hotel nestling in the northwest corner of Antigua, just a short drive from St John's.

There can be few resorts in the world that provide a more exquisite setting for weddings and honeymoons than Blue Waters – it is a tropical paradise that epitomizes luxury and elegance! Not surprisingly, the resort has earned the reputation of being one of the Caribbean’s finest, offering first-class service and making each guest feel like a VIP. Situated in Soldiers Bay, in an idyllic beachside setting, Blue Waters resort offers a choice of three white sandy beaches, so secluded that you could feel like you are on your own private island. The resort is renowned for luxurious living in bright and spacious surroundings.

On arrival, guests are offered a cooling fruit cocktail in the entrance lobby, which leads into the Pelican Bar, named after the majestic birds which frequent the bay at 50 www.BridesAbroad.tv

Blue Waters – it’s a great place to relax throughout the day and in the evenings enjoy live entertainment from Antigua’s finest performers, including a traditional steel band guaranteed to get you on your feet!

This sumptuous hotel is set in 17-acres of carefully manicured tropical gardens, with winding paths leading to guest rooms, suites and villas tucked away amidst colourful flowers and exotic vegetation.

There are also seven freshwater swimming pools, secluded beach coves and a choice of restaurants and bars, offering superb local and international cuisine.

Stay in style Accommodation is presented in a choice to suit all tastes and budgets, from

beautifully appointed guest rooms to the impressive colonial-style Cove Suites, which are the pride and joy of Blue Waters with their stunning interiors, unbeatable locations, incredible sunset views and private gardens with infinity pools exclusive to Cove Suite guests. Or you could really push the boat out in the finest rock star tradition and hire the stunning Rock Cottage – standing majestically on a rocky peninsular above the Caribbean Sea with breathtaking views of the turquoise ocean, this private villa offers complete privacy and is a firm favourite with celebrities, small wedding parties and as an intimate honeymoon haven. Finally, Turtle Cottage and Pelican House both offer luxurious self-contained living in spacious, private accommodation that is ideal for family holidays.

Wining and dining Each of the hotel’s restaurants enjoys a gorgeous setting and serves delicious cuisine lovingly prepared by Head Chef Rene and his team. The Palm Restaurant is open all day and offers both indoor and al fresco dining in a relaxed atmosphere overlooking the gardens and ocean beyond, while Bartley’s serves romantic Pan-Asian cuisine in an intimate setting. The Cove enjoys a unique cliff top position and combines Caribbean and French cuisine with flair. The entrance to The Cove is truly romantic as guests are greeted with flaming torches leading into the candlelit hall where diners are treated to amazing views of the Caribbean Sea – so close you can almost touch it. There are also three bars: The Pelican Bar, Veronica’s Bar located by the main pool, and the Beach Bar, in a rustic beach setting. Guests can stay at the resort on a B&B basis; however most choose the All-Inclusive option, which includes breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner at each of the hotel’s restaurants, plus soft drinks, alcohol and cocktails.

Wellbeing & fitness Take the opportunity to get healthy and active during your honeymoon beginning at the sublime Spa & Beauty Salon where you

can be indulged in a range of Elemis treatments to soothe, relax and rejuvenate mind, body and soul with everything from couples’ massages to pampering manicures. The Fitness Centre has a fullyequipped air-conditioned gym with personal training available upon request. There is also a floodlit tennis court within the resort’s gardens and an 18-hole golf course just 10 minutes away – golf fees can be booked via the hotel’s tour desk.

Take to the ocean Down on the beach an abundance of exhilarating water sports awaits, including snorkeling, windsurfing, sailing and kayaking with introductory lessons for beginners.

However, there can be nothing more romantic than setting sail at sunset or taking a lobster lunch cruise on a two or four-hour private trip aboard the resort’s luxury power boat to discover the magnificent Antiguan coastline and the port of St John’s. Trips and excursions can all be arranged at the hotel’s tour desk.

Weddings Tie the knot in sensational style at Blue Waters, and choose from a host of wonderful wedding venues – from its beautifully decorated floral Gazebo to the über chic Rock Cottage. Blue Waters’ highly-experienced and charming wedding planner, Mandie, and her dedicated wedding team will organize everything down to the finest detail. The most popular venue is the Gazebo at the end of Blue Waters point, reached by a rustic stone pathway and surrounded by the sparkling turquoise

ocean. However, for equally stunning alternatives, have a barefoot beach ceremony on the sand, where a palm arch can be erected and decorated with flowers.

Or hire The Cove Restaurant for an elegant setting with gorgeous sea views. However, a wedding at Rock Cottage is the ultimate experience, providing a totally private venue for a spectacular special day.

There is plenty of choice for your wedding reception too. For intimate wedding breakfasts, with just the bride and groom, a private dinner can be arranged in the wedding gazebo where the marriage took place or down on the beach where a beautifully decorated table is set-up beneath the stars and a bespoke, pre-selected menu is served. Alternatively small wedding parties can dine in Bartley’s and in The Palm where guests can enjoy al fresco dinner and dancing to the sounds of live music. For larger wedding groups, a more formal reception or Caribbean-style BBQ can be arranged at the Poolside Deck, on the Beach, and The Cove Restaurant can cater for parties up to 90 guests. Meanwhile, sit back and enjoy the Caribbean sun, while Mandie creates the wedding of your dreams for you.

Further information Blue Waters Soldiers Bay St John’s Antigua Tel: (268) 462 0290 Reservations@bluewaters.net www.bluewaters.net www.BridesAbroad.tv 51

REAL WEDDINGS

Vows in a

Caribbean Paradise A big white wedding was not Chloe Barrett and fiancé Paul Jones’ style, the couple from Gloucester preferred to have a private wedding, just the two of them, in a spectacular gazebo setting at the Blue Waters resort on the Caribbean island of Antigua. More importantly they wanted their ceremony to reflect their individuality, which they achieved perfectly with a totally chilled big day.

Finding ‘the one’ We met a long time ago, when we used to work for the same company, but it wasn’t love at first sight!

The proposal Paul asked me to marry him in Covent Garden. It was totally unexpected. He simply told me to hold my hand out and put a ring in my palm!

Location, location We chose to get married overseas because we wanted privacy, however we do understand the irony of it now our wedding is being featured in Brides Abroad magazine. We knew we wanted to go to the Carribean, and didn’t want to get married on the beach as we didn’t want to become a spectacle for other holiday makers,

52 www.BridesAbroad.tv

so we looked specifically for hotels that had nice grounds and more private surroundings.

The planning We used the wedding planner at the hotel, Mandie, who was amazing. She couldn’t have been more helpful and enthusiastic and took care of all the details for us. We booked our hotel and flights through Virgin Holidays, but didn’t need the help of the Virgin wedding co-ordinator as Mandie had sorted everything out for us. We planned very little before we went, we viewed it more as a holiday where we also happened to get married!

The guests Because we wanted our wedding to be low-key and private we didn’t invite any guests along with us, it was just the two of us.

Chloe and Paul's intimate wedding overlooking the Caribbean Sea

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REAL WEDDINGS

54 www.BridesAbroad.tv

The reception After the ceremony we had a Champagne toast and cut the cake, followed by a private meal in the gazebo where we were married, from here we could enjoy a panoramic view of the ocean and the setting sun. For our wedding meal we had requested to dine Mexican-style, so the chef prepared Nachos, Chicken Burritos and Tequila! The table was set up beautifully by hotel staff but we did not request any specific decorations, we left it up to them. We didn’t have a First Dance.

eating cake. The funniest memories are some of the things the registrar said – he was very humorous!

The honeymoon We stayed at Blue Waters for the duration, we got married a week into our holiday. It was just the two of us throughout our trip.

We didn’t invite anyone for any of it, and our friends and family respected our

decision and were just happy that we were happy.

On budget?

Our wedding and honeymoon combined cost around £10K. We didn’t really have a set budget, however we knew it would always be less than if we married in England, so were fairly relaxed when choosing a hotel.

Further information

Photographic memories Our photographer was a lovely lady called Ann, her company is Wadadli Digital. We had the basic package which comprised photos only, no video and we have them on a memory stick. We didn’t want anything more, just a couple of photos to show to famliy and friends. However, our favourite photograph is a selfie we took after the cermony, because it’s relaxed and makes us laugh when we look at it!

Magic moments?

WEDDING PLANNER UK Virgin Holidays www.virginholidays.co.uk WEDDING PLANNER ANTIGUA Mandie Braithwaite-Joseph VENUE Blue Waters hotel, St Johns, Antigua www.bluewaters.net PHOTOGRAPHER Ann Granger, Wadali digital

Our best memory is relaxing after the ceremony, drinking Champagne and www.BridesAbroad.tv 55

ST JAMES'S CLUB The long sweeping driveway of St James's Club is lined with scented flowers and swaying palms, stylish villas dot the verdant hillside and luxurious guestrooms overlook the sparkling Caribbean Sea. You've truly arrived in honeymoon paradise!

Just a 10-minute drive from Nelson’s Dockyard, English Harbour and Shirley Heights, on the southeast coast of Antigua, St James’s Club Resort & Villas boasts a prime position on a picturesque, 100-acre peninsula. The all-inclusive resort exudes a casual, club-like ambience and offers plenty of amenities and activities, as well as a choice of gorgeous venues for dream weddings.

If you are looking for beautiful white sandy beaches, you’ve come to the right place, guests are treated to not one, but two beautiful beaches with very different personalities – the peaceful, palm fringed shores of Mamora Bay and the exciting surf of Coco Beach, both offering stunning locations for beach weddings.

Beach life At St. James’s Club, the peninsular marks the dividing line between the Atlantic and Caribbean Sea. On the Atlantic side Coco Beach is where waves and whitecaps meet the shores – perfect for couples to frolic in the invigorating ocean, or if you have relaxation and tanning on your mind, find a place under the palm trees and allow the 56 www.BridesAbroad.tv

sea breeze to keep you cool. Meanwhile, the calm Caribbean waters of the sheltered Mamora Bay are ideal for swimming and watersports, and you can lounge on a sunbed, top up your tan and wait for the drinks buggy to deliver complementary chilled drinks to keep you relaxed and chilled.

Non-motorised water sports are complementary at St. James’s Club Water Sports Centre, including pedal boats and catamaran sailing, and be sure to go snorkeling and check out the vibrant array of sea life in Mamora Bay – if you’d like to visit some of the 20 nearby dive sites or take a lesson you can do so with the Mamora Dive Centre.

Fitness and relaxation Away from the beach, couples can relax in or around the resort’s six swimming pools or take active rest in the Fitness Centre with its fully-equipped state-of-the-art gymnasium and play tennis on one of six courts. Or simply stroll through the vast grounds hand in hand and discover the delights that this resort has to offer.

The Tranquility Body & Soul Spa, tucked away in the gardens, is a serene hideaway for pampering and restorative treatments in seven beautifully appointed massage rooms. Pre and post wedding pampering are a must for brides and grooms, whilst honeymooners can enjoy exotic spa treatments and couples rituals.

Live like a royal Luxurious accommodation is offered in a choice of guestrooms, suites and villas, ranging from Club Rooms with garden views, private terraces and direct beach access, to the Royal Suites, the most popular choice for destination wedding and honeymoon couples – these extra spacious suites have beautiful waterfront views of Mamora Bay from their generously sized balconies and private terraces. A further 40 one and two bedroom private villas provide lavish living space and striking views of Mamora Bay from their hillside position – perfect for wedding parties, families and couples seeking more privacy.

Each comes with fully-fitted kitchen and plenty of outdoor space. You can even have your wedding ceremony and reception in the villas on special request.

Culinary delights St James’s Club has four restaurants offering a delicious array of local and international food. The Rainbow Garden serves breakfasts and lunches with indoor and outdoor dining options; Coco Beach Restaurant & Bar offers casual dining with sea views and a selection of salads, soups, burgers and pastas. In the evening The Docksider overlooks Mamora Bay, has charming nautical décor and serves Caribbean-inspired dishes, including freshly-caught fish, while Docksider Grill offers beachgoers light lunches, including burgers, hot dogs and sandwiches throughout the day. However, for romantic dining, Italian cuisine with a Caribbean twist is served at Piccolo Mondo, a gorgeous hillside restaurant boasting sweeping views of Mamora Bay.

Destination weddings St James’s Club has some truly magical venues for couples to say “I do”, from panoramic terraces and scented gardens to its breathtaking beaches. The favourite places for wedding ceremonies are in the resort’s beautifully decorated wedding

gazeboes overlooking the ocean or down on the beach under a pop-up bamboo wedding arch. All arrangements will be handled by Paula, the hotel’s first-rate dedicated wedding planner. Paula will organize everything for you right down to the colour of your flowers, so all you need to do is relax on a sun lounger and sip cocktails, whilst preparations for your wedding are made on your behalf. The basic wedding package is free for couples staying seven nights or more on an all-inclusive basis in the Beachfront category or higher. Wedding packages include decorated venue (set up for 6 persons maximum); Best Man/Maid of Honor (if needed); bouquet and boutonniere; wedding cake (single tier); a bottle of sparkling wine and all hotel taxes and gratuities. Optional extras are also available, such as photography, private dinners, spa treatments and entertainment. Honeymoon packages are also available on request, designed to suit your individual style.

Further information St James’s Club Elite Island Resorts Tel +44 (0) 1245 45 99 06 www.stjamesclubantigua.com

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REAL WEDDINGS

Tie the knot

Antigua Style!

Sharron and Edward say "I do" under a bamboo beach gazebo 58 www.BridesAbroad.tv

When American Edward Grant Haggett met his beautiful English bride Sharron Taylor through a mutual friend, it was a magical moment – they both knew instantly that this was the start of something very special. The couple, who now live in Williamsburg, Virginia, sealed their love with an intimate and truly romantic beach ceremony on the Caribbean island of Antigua, where its close proximity to America and its distinctively English heritage made this stunning destination the perfect choice.

Finding ‘the one’ We were introduced by our mutual friend, Elizabeth. She decided I needed to meet her longtime friend Edward, since we shared some obvious interests including sailing. She used the opportunity of her birthday dinner at the Hampton Yacht Club in Virginia to finally introduce us. Ed and I sat at opposite ends of the table, but as the evening progressed, people started shuffling seats and I found myself sitting beside him. We chatted, laughed and shared birthday cake. For me, it was different from love at first sight – it was a bubbling heart full of hopefulness and a surreal sense of amazement that I might have just met ‘him’! The next morning, Elizabeth told me that Ed thought I was really nice, but she didn’t suggest sharing my contact information with him, so I took that as a polite indication that I should pack my curiosity away into that guarded box of nice memories.

However, two months later, Elizabeth invited me to a wine tasting event at the yacht club with her friends, including Ed. This time he made sure we had each other’s phone numbers and email addresses! The following day he called to say he just happened to be ‘in my neck of the woods’.

Obviously my feelings at the birthday dinner were mutual after all! We had a wonderful afternoon chatting and even had our first kiss before he left to go home – it was an: “Oh my goodness you just stole my heart and melted my soul” kind-of kiss!

The proposal Ed popped the question at Kenilworth Castle, when he came to visit me at my cottage in the UK. He had been planning the proposal for months and had to arrange it all without me

suspecting anything. He had even managed to convince British Heritage staff at the castle to help him orchestrate the fine details and convinced them to let my family into the grounds through a back entrance so that we wouldn’t bump into them!

He got everyone involved in the proposal – it turns out that even the ladies at the ticket counter were in on the plan and apparently there were radio communications going on throughout the castle grounds to keep track of our whereabouts as Ed tried to steer me to his chosen proposal spot!

Location location After the magic of the proposal with my family in England, we wanted to make sure we chose a location that would be easy for our American and British guests, but I also wanted to be married on British territory – or at least former British territory, with the nuances that make experiences feel genuine. The opportunity to sail was also a consideration. We chose a wedding date – March 7th 2015, which was made up of numbers that meant something important to us. I was in charge of organizing the wedding, and researched for ideas and even contacted a few venues and wedding planners. But by the end of November in 2014, Ed reminded me that our chosen wedding date was only a few months away and we still hadn’t booked anything. He then suggested Antigua, so I did my research on Antigua and discovered it had cricket, fish & chips, sailing regattas and Nelson’s Dockyard, where my grandfather had served in the Royal Navy. That made up our minds for us! We checked out the reviews for St James’s Club resort on Trip Advisor and it looked amazing – the perfect choice!

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REAL WEDDINGS The planning We contacted Paula Martin, the Wedding Planner at St James’s Club resort, to discuss options and we arranged with her to have a sunset wedding on March 7th, our special date. PERFECT! We arrived at our hotel and as we were checking in, a lady approached me and asked if I was Sharron. The lady was Paula, our wedding planner, who would be working with us on arranging our wedding and the legalities.

As we had only previously been in contact by email, I was amazed she recognized us as she passed us in reception, but this was just a sign of the intuitive attention to detail that we would experience with Paula and her team in the days to come.

Once we had settled in we spent an hour with Paula discussing the fine details for our wedding.

The details Ed and I had both been married before, so we wanted simplicity – an easy theme!

The details of our wedding were straightforward: flowers – tropical; cake flavor – tropical (coconut cake with mango filling); music – Caribbean steel drum; setting – beach with an arch made from bamboo and shells; Champagne toast; photographer to capture candid photos.

There were many other wedding day options and ideas available, but our choices fitted the simplicity theme we wanted. It was so stress-free and wonderful.

The guests We started announcing the date and location to family during the Christmas holidays and made it an open invitation.

There was a possibility that Ed’s friend and girlfriend might join us, but my best friend couldn’t make it. By early February, my mother was worried that I wouldn’t have anyone with me in Antigua to celebrate. So with only weeks to spare, my parents secured a fantastic package deal and arrived in Antigua the day before our wedding. As it turned out, it was just the four of us – simplicity!

Getting the Look We were planning a beach wedding and we were thinking shorts and T-shirts – but the girls at work started asking about my dress, so I decided it would be nice to find a special dress – one that would look good on a beach and could be worn again. I popped into a boutique close to

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home and stumbled upon a completely unique dress – it was love at first sight! It was a sea green/teal colour, long, light and covered in individually sewn petals secured by tiny beads. However, it was not my size, so I checked the label and looked it up on the Internet. Amazingly I found one in my size on eBay, which was in ivory, new-with-tags and cost less than we paid for Ed’s outfit! It was light enough to be carry-on luggage and was so perfect for travelling that I could roll it up into a bag and stuff it into a carry on case, with the shoes. Ed never even noticed.

Once in the hotel, I pulled it out of the bag, placed it on a hanger, and hung another long dress right over the top to keep it hidden from him. It didn’t even need ironing! It was the perfect beach dress!

Beautiful accessories I wore cream and silver sandals with pearls and sparkly rhinestones that kept snagging my dress, darn it! I wore delicate silver and diamond drop earrings, a necklace that is a replica of one that Lady Diana owned, and meaningful rings and bracelets – one bracelet was purchased in the capital town of St. John’s after we had finalized the paperwork for our marriage license, the second was my Pandora

bracelet with several sentimental charms; one to represent each of my three children and three from Ed representing three significant moments in our lives. As the wedding was at 4 pm, we stayed on the beach until 2:45 pm, then went to our room and I shared mirror space with mum for the standard hair and make-up routine.

Not much need for make-up when you have a sun-kissed glow from heavenly days in Antigua!

Something Old, Something New? Something Old: my grandmother’s wedding ring that I’ve worn since it was passed on to me after she died; Something New: the bracelet we had purchased in St John’s – after the ceremony, I took it off and put it around Paula’s wrist as a thank you; Something Borrowed: a ring from my mother; Something Blue: another ring with a lovely blue stone.

Groomed to perfection It was a fight, but about a week before we left, I did manage to have Ed shop for something that was at least new. He had a choice of two outfits and he settled on a navy silk shirt with tiny white anchors and white shorts. I was worried about my dress being ivory with his being white, but it didn’t really matter. When you are on a creamy-white sand beach with turquoise water, tropical flowers and steel drums, we could both have worn sacks and nobody would notice. Ed looked absolutely perfect – the way I love him, casually handsome.

The wedding After a fantastic breakfast, the four of us headed down to the beach. We spent a very relaxing day in the sun with tropical refreshments available from two beach bars or the beach golf cart that circled around with refills all day. I noticed some activity at the far end of the beach, where the wedding planners were setting up for our ceremony. It felt strange to be lounging on a beach while we watched others scurry around to do the set up for us. I felt guilty. At 2:45 pm, with a little over an hour to go before our wedding, we went back to the room for showers.

Dad and Ed were ready first and were picked up by Paula to be transported by golf cart to our wedding spot on the beach. At 4:00 pm Paula was back for mum and me.

As mum and I arrived, we were tickled to see other hotel guests had gathered in various areas to wish us well. At first you could tell they were trying to be polite and give us privacy and space, but we let them know we were delighted to have them share our moment. Our new friends relaxed and others made their way closer - but still maintained a very kind and respectful space. It was a nice touch!

The musician began to play the wedding march, the breezes blew, Ed turned around from his place under the bamboo arches and the next 15-20 minutes were a blur. The minister had spent time talking to Ed and my dad on the beach before mum and I arrived. As he spoke and led us through our vows and

exchange of rings, it felt as though he had known us our entire lives. We both had tears of happiness, it truly felt as though no-one else existed for those beautiful moments! Once we were brought back to reality, we had the most fantastic time being completely spontaneous and candid and the photographer captured these moments.

We had so much fun! Of course, we did focus on formalities, our marriage license was signed and my parents served as witnesses. The Champagne flowed and the cake was absolutely a-m-a-z-i-n-g! I think mum and I came back for seconds. This was our reception and it was brilliant.

We had opted for a fantastic sunset dinner at one of the restaurants at St. James’s, where we had a table by a waterfall, overlooking the same area of beach where we had just become husband and wife. When we came back to our hotel room, we were greeted by a path of deep pink petals that led to more petals arranged as two hearts on our bed. Magical.

On budget?

We stayed for 7 nights, all-inclusive, so the resort did not charge any additional fees for the wedding package. We paid extra for the photographer and the steel drummer. The only other required expense was $350/£225 for the licensing/paperwork. We stayed on budget, but chose to splurge on adventures to explore the island.

Further information WEDDING PLANNER AT RESORT Paula Martin

VENUE Mamora Bay Beach, St. James Club, Antigua

PHOTOGRAPHER Mr. Ted Martin

www.BridesAbroad.tv 61

SUGAR RIDGE

Just a short stroll from the turquoise waters of Jolly Beach and the bustling marina of Jolly Harbour, Sugar Ridge is a luxurious, boutique-style hotel set on the verdant hillside overlooking the Caribbean Sea. This honeymoon haven offers tropical charm and spectacular views across the bay.

Named after the sugar cane crops, with which it shares its border, Sugar Ridge features 60 charming guest suites, built into the hillside, with panoramic views of the coastline from their generous balconies.

Sugar Ridge is a haven of relaxation, and is perfect for couples looking for a chic honeymoon retreat rather than the usual family beachside resort. However, a choice of some of the best beaches in Antigua are within easy walking distance, including Jolly Beach, Darkwood Beach, Jackie O’s, Turners Beach, Fryers Beach and Nest Beach – the hotel provides a shuttle service to these stunning beaches and has concessions for sun-loungers and dining at several of them, where all-inclusive guests can eat free.

The resort is designed in tropical Caribbean style with a contemporary twist. It boasts two swimming pools where you can take a quiet dip and enjoy poolside refreshments, including freshly prepared Sushi, afternoon tea and cocktails. The main pool is a split-level work of art, with a wall of water cascading into the lower pool, whilst in a hilltop position at the highest point of the resort, an infinity pool stretches out from Carmichaels bar and restaurant, providing breathtaking views across to Jolly Harbour Marina and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Fitness and relaxation are top priorities at Sugar Ridge, in fact the whole ground floor of the main building is taken up by the

62 www.BridesAbroad.tv

Aveda Spa, with a couples therapy room and area for Pilates and yoga and a Fitness Centre with state-of-the-art gymnasium.

Rooms with a view The hotel’s luxurious guest rooms are located in several villa-style low-rise accommodation blocks, which nestle throughout the natural hillside of Sugar Ridge and are tastefully furnished in chic colonial style. Their large verandahs have a dining area and splendid views due to their elevated positions. Ground floor rooms also feature private plunge pools.

Wining and dining For a magical dining experience, Carmichaels Restaurant and Bar boasts a wonderful location at the top of the hill on which the hotel is situated, and blends fine dining with awesome views.

Fresh fish is a specialty, however there are many other delicious choices, and service is always charming and attentive. Many guests come up to Carmichaels at dusk to watch the sun set over the Caribbean Sea and combine a dip in the bar’s infinity pool with a delicious cocktail.

Sugar Club is the hotel’s primary restaurant at ground level in the main building, where you can dine indoors or outside on the verandah. The décor has a distinctive ambience of the Far East, with its dark woods and airy open-plan. Food is served here throughout the day, from breakfast and lunch to formal evening

dining. A comfortable bar area is the perfect place to enjoy the nightly cabaret with a relaxing drink. Guests can choose to stay at the hotel on a B&B, Half-Board or All-Inclusive basis.

Weddings Sugar Ridge is a beautiful place to say, “I do” – and you can have both your ceremony and reception at Carmichaels Restaurant at the top of the resort for a spectacular setting. Couples can hire the entire restaurant and bar for large wedding parties and dance into the night with their guests. Smaller parties are also catered for, or bride and grooms can enjoy an intimate romantic wedding meal together.

However, should you choose to marry further afield, weddings can be arranged at a number of locations in the area, including religious services at the picture-perfect Valley Church, 5 minutes from the hotel, or on one of the nearby sandy beaches. The dedicated wedding advisor at Sugar Ridge can make the arrangements for you and ensure that you have the wedding of your dreams. A range of packages are available which can be customized to meet the couple’s individual requirements – from large gatherings, to just the two of you.

Further information Sugar Ridge Hotel Jolly Harbour St Marys Antigua Tel: (268) 562 7700 reservations@sugarridgeantigua.com www.sugarridgeantigua.com www.BridesAbroad.tv 63

VERANDAH RESORT & SPA Nestling on the lush agricultural northeast coast of Antigua, away from the main tourist hotspots, the Verandah Resort & Spa offers weddings and honeymoons in an oasis of luxury and tranquility, just five minutes drive from the spectacular Devil's Bridge National Park

The Verandah Resort & Spa is a Caribbean paradise set in 30 beautiful beachfront acres, traversed by hiking trails and adjacent to Devil’s Bridge National Park with its dramatic landmark rock arch.

This lovely resort boasts pretty white sandy coves with calm turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, spacious and manicured gardens and luxurious accommodation in suites and villas with the look and feel of intimate Caribbean cottages, each boasting its own signature ‘verandah’ to enjoy the gorgeous tropical views.

The Verandah is a perfect choice for all the family, however there is no doubt that it is a truly romantic place for a destination wedding or dream honeymoon, with its choice of gorgeous settings and beachside wedding gazebos.

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Honeymooners will discover an abundance of facilities and activities to suit all tastes and styles of holidaymaking – from beach pursuits to sumptuous dining experiences, plus an indulgent spa offering relaxing and rejuvenating face and body treatments. The Verandah also has an expansive swimming pool as its centrepiece – the largest free-form pool in Antigua, which is the resort’s focal point and an excellent spot for lounging in the sun or enjoying a cooling dip.

Tranquility and seclusion The resort has a natural, spacious and breezy ambience where you can enjoy socialising with other guests, or, if you prefer, retreat to your own secluded place for peaceful privacy – whether that’s a quiet spot on the beach or by the cool waters of the resort’s adult-only pool amid its tropical landscaped gardens, or you

can simply relax on your own private balcony with a chilled glass of wine – the choice is yours!

Dining options The Verandah Resort & Spa has three restaurants and four bars serving fresh local and international cuisine and worldclass Caribbean cocktails. Seabreeze, the main restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and buffet-style dinner in a dining room with an airy, outdoor feeling. For formal dining Nicole’s offers a blend of stylishly presented, Caribbean-influenced cuisine in a delightful setting, where warm red walls and dark wood trim create a cozy ambience; The Buccaneer offers familyfriendly fare, including afternoon tea; For casual daytime dining, the Beach Bar & Grill is perched above the main beach and serves light lunch and refreshments in a relaxed, breezy bar with gorgeous views

of the cove. Three bars include the Rasta Bar – a funky shack in a totally relaxed beach setting; the Pool Bar with poolside refreshments; the main lounge, overlooking the pool, which serves drinks and cocktails throughout the day and lively music and international entertainment keeps the fun flowing into the night.

Spa pampering Tranquility Body & Soul Spa is an elegant hideaway for pampering and restorative face and body treatments. Surrounded by French doors that let in the natural light, guests are greeted by soothing sounds and a relaxing cup of herbal tea. The spa offers a range of pampering and beauty treatments and spa packages in three well-appointed massage rooms, a facials room, plus a hair and nail salon – perfect for couples preparing for their wedding.

Honeymooners can be pampered and relaxed with couples rituals and therapies.

Weddings The Verandah Resort & Spa, with its beautiful tropical grounds, surrounded by the warm turquoise waters of the Caribbean, provides the perfect backdrop for luxury weddings and offers all-inclusive wedding package that can be personalized to meet individual requirements. The hotel’s first-rate wedding planners will ensure that your wedding ceremony is unforgettable and that your day is perfect. The basic package includes: decorated site for the wedding ceremony, set up for a maximum of 6 people; Best Man/Maid of Honor (supplied if needed); bouquet of fresh local flowers for the bride and boutonniere for the groom; single-tier wedding cake; one bottle of sparkling wine; all hotel taxes and gratuities.

Honeymoon packages The Verandah has a choice of two all-inclusive honeymoon packages to make your stay extra special: The Romance & Private Package (£530 per couple) which includes private dinner on your balcony, in-room wine fruit and cheese platter, two spa massages and two matching Verandah T-Shirts; The Pampered & Indulged Package (£400 per couple) includes Champagne Continental Breakfast in bed, two spa massages, a spa pack of body products, two matching Verandah T-Shirts.

Further information The Verandah Resort & Spa Elite Island Resorts Tel: 44 (0) 1245 45 99 06 www.theverandah.com www.eliteislandresorts.com www.BridesAbroad.tv 65

GALLEY BAY

There can be few resorts in the West Indies that boast such an idyllic beachside position as Galley Bay Resort & Spa. Surrounded by nature at its best, it's a haven for honeymooners and the perfect place for Caribbean destination weddings Galley Bay is tucked away on Antigua's west coast and enjoys a prime position on a long stretch of golden sandy beach.

Although it is just 10 minutes from the bustling port of St John’s, it is a peaceful hideaway in 40-acres of tropical gardens, with a lagoon and bird sanctuary.

The romantic ambience is enhanced by the resort's rustic architecture, inspired by the tropics and exuding the kind of relaxed West Indian charm that ensures honeymooners will have a truly magical start to married life in a refined yet unpretentious resort.

With just 98 rooms and suites spread out beneath coconut palms and overlooking the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea, Galley Bay has a boutique-style charm and offers a wide range of facilities in and around the newly refurbished resort.

Take advantage of the complimentary nonmotorized water sports, the new Indulge Spa, fitness facilities and tennis, or simply relax by the landscaped swimming pool to the sound of the cascading waterfall. And be sure to hire a car or a bicycle to explore the local countryside, or take a trip into St John's for a spot of duty-free shopping and sightseeing.

Luxury living Gorgeous accommodation is available in a choice of four categories: the thatched roofed Gauguin Cottages with private plunge pools, situated close to the beach on the edge of the bird sanctuary lagoon; Superior Beachfront which are single level 66 www.BridesAbroad.tv

rooms located directly on the beach; Deluxe Beachfront, which are slightly larger and Premium Beachfront – contemporary split level suites with sunken living rooms.

Dining experiences A range of superb restaurants ensure that guests enjoy an excellent choice of dining to suit their moods – including the Sea Grape Restaurant, an elegant beachfront restaurant serving a la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner; Gauguin Restaurant offers a more intimate oceanside venue serving grilled dishes beneath individual thatched huts; Ismay's Restaurant is the 'special occasion' intimate dining restaurant which is perfect for honeymoon dining and wedding receptions; Barefoot Grill offers beachside dining and light snacks in a very casual atmosphere.

Weddings Galley Bay provides the ideal beach setting for the wedding of your dreams, with a choice of venues including a picturesque gazebo in a secluded location overlooking the ocean, and a wedding pavilion that can be set up on the beach so couples can say "I do" with sand between their toes. The resort offers wedding packages and a wedding planning team to take care of all the arrangements and ensure your wedding day is absolutely perfect.

Further information Galley Bay Resort & Spa St John’s Antigua www.galleybayresort.com www.eliteislandresorts.com

MAGICAL SITES TO WED, MEMORABLE SIGHTS TO BEHOLD, AND IN ST. LUCIA YOUR SOMETHING BLUE IS ALWAYS INCLUDED!

To Book your Dream Wedding or Honeymoon Package at Coconut Bay, Please Call 01582 792260, visit www.coconutbayresort.co.uk or E-mail coconutbay@group-promotions.com

St Lucia The Caribbean love island

Say "I do" in St Lucia, the Caribbean's most popular wedding island, with the famous Pitons as an iconic backdrop on your special day 68 www.BridesAbroad.tv

island’s hotels and resorts. including free night’s accommodation, free meals, free upgrades and even free wedding ceremonies.

St Lucia is one of the world’s favourite wedding and honeymoon destinations, which is no surprise – this exotic Caribbean island has got it all! St Lucia simply epitomizes the concept of a tropical paradise for your wedding celebrations.

The verdant island, with its lush mountains, rainforests, rich vegetation and banana plantations, is a photographer’s dream, especially the landmark Pitons that dominate the shores of St Lucia – these twin mountain peaks soar 2,000 ft above the island’s south west coast giving St Lucia it’s unique identity. It even boasts the world’s only walk-in volcano, which last erupted more than 200 years ago.

If you dream of a beach wedding, St Lucia is a dream come true. It boasts long stretches of unspoiled, palm fringed sandy beaches and secluded coves.

Most resorts in St Lucia nestle along the beaches on the southwest (Caribbean) side of the island and many offer wedding pavilions overlooking the sparkling ocean in their manicured tropical gardens. The less populated Atlantic east coast is dotted with nature reserves. Pigeon Island, which is connected to the mainland by a causeway at Rodney Bay, is a 40-acre natural park with the remains of an 18th century British fort. Another favourite location is the picturesque marina at Marigot Bay, famed as the film location for Dr Doolittle in the 1960s, and now better known for its array of sailing yachts and luxurious Gin Palaces moored here for the night.

Marry in St Lucia Most hotels in St Lucia offer wedding packages aimed at making your special day a hassle free, romantic moment to cherish. What’s more, there are plenty of deals on offer for wedding couples at the

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO

1

Visit the heart of the volcano: It is in the crater of the Soufriere volcano, with hot rocks, steam and boiling pools of murky water. Every full moon, the pools turn into geysers – apparently something to do with the tides.

2

Explore the rainforests: There are plenty of hiking trails through St Lucia's green and mountainous interior, so hire a guide and explore! For the ultimate adrenaline buzz you can wiz above the rainforest on Zip Line Wires at the Treetop Adventure Park in Dennery.

3

Climb the Pitons: The Gros Piton is the easier of the two famous Pitons to climb. The hike up the Piton with a guide takes an average of two hours to the summit, and is strenuous but not too difficult, and worth it for the spectacular views of St Lucia!

4

Take a Kayaking tour: Guided kayaking tours embrace St Lucia's beautiful natural coastline and crystal clear waters. You will be offered expert instruction. Tours from the luxury retreat Anse Chastanet can include a picnic lunch and a swim off a deserted beach.

5

Have a spa treatment: The luxury resorts in St Lucia boast stunning spas, including The Body Holiday, a beautiful resort devoted to health and wellbeing, which offers both western and Ayurvedic treatments.

Weddings at St Lucia’s luxury resorts are offered in a variety of exotic locations, such as garden gazebos, huts overlooking the surf or romantic beach spots. Religious wedding ceremonies can be arranged in a church by the hotels wedding planners. You can even tie the knot at some of the island’s most amazing locations – in the midst of the rainforest, a quaint island church or even a wedding involving an adventure activity such as scuba or horseback riding. Some of the more unusual ways to plunge into matrimony are at the top of an expertonly mountain trail, along a summit ridge of Gros Piton, diving among the colourful fish on the coral reef or sailing into the sunset. They are all possibilities…

Legals You need to be over 18-years old and must be in St Lucia for three full business days prior to the wedding day for the license application process to be completed. You will also need the following documentation: Passport and/or Birth Certificate; an original or certified copy of a Divorce Decree; in the case of a widow/widower, a certified Death Certificate.

Honeymoon heaven For couples that don't want to spend the entire honeymoon lounging on the beach, there are plenty of activities available on the island – jungle biking; rainforest hikes and sky rides; sailing; diving; snorkelling and other watersports; whale watching; coastal kayaking; golf and horse-riding. www.BridesAbroad.tv 69

REAL WEDDINGS

SAND CEREMONY AT

SANDALS When they met at their law firm in London, it took a little gentle persuasion for Alexander to get a date with his colleague Omega. However love soon followed, and the couple choose Sandals in St Lucia for their gorgeous destination wedding ceremony

Says Alexander: We met at work but Omega refused to go out with me. She asked me for a recommendation for online dating which I provided (eHarmony). The next morning I logged on to see my daily 6 or 7 matches within a 25 mile radius and there she was as number one. I was also her first match. She then agreed to a date! Was it love at first sight? Far from it, Omega thought I was a ‘git’. There was potential for her to take away some of my work flow.

limit the number of people that could attend. However, we also had a reception at Fulham Palace on 6th June for 130 people and so we decided to go ahead with the dream location. We had considered the BVI, as friends have a house there which we could have used, but transport there was a nightmare. It was, therefore, down to direct flights with BA to maximise the liklihood of guests attending. St Lucia promised more activities than most – with lush jungle and wildlife to explore as opposed to just sitting on a beach.

The proposal

The planning

Omega loves forests, so the proposal was on the edge of a forest next to a lake with a view of the Pyrenees in South West France on a sunny day on Christmas Eve. Omega turned to beckon the dog back to us, I got down on one knee with the ring as she turned back around. She asked what I was doing (not understanding why I was kneeling!)

The penny dropped quite quickly though with an affirmative response!

We booked accommodation and all aspects of the wedding directly with

Finding ‘the one’

Location, location We had always wanted to get married on a warm beach, but realised this would 70 www.BridesAbroad.tv

Sandals and the flights directly with BA. The Sandals wedding team were always fantastically helpful and friendly and did a great job of getting round any headaches. It was all planned before we went to St Lucia – we worked through the Sandals’ checklist!

The guests Our wedding party included approximately 40 of us. Around 30 stayed with us at Sandals resort and others stayed around the island. We gave the option of attending a London reception or travelling out to St Lucia, so out of a total 150 invitees we were delighted that so many came to our wedding in the Caribbean, given the distance and cost.

Getting the look After many attempts at finding the ‘right dress’, the bride’s mother-in-law kindly agreed to go dress shopping. She lives in France, and bought with her a dress that had been in a friend’s attic for almost 20 years ‘just in case’. It was an Elizabeth Emmanuelle that had been a show piece but never worn. After a long and unsuccessful day of dress shopping, Omega tried on the dress and it fit. It was a must have, so we bought it from the

Omega and Alexander exchange vows on a St Lucian beach

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REAL WEDDINGS

friend. She had it cleaned and shortened slightly, then it was good to go. We had a necklace and earrings made bespoke to match a head piece, which included pearls and white flowers. The resort organised for someone to do both hair and makeup for the bride.

Something Old, Something New? The dress was Something Old; the jewellery New and the dress has a little ‘Blue’ bow inside the bustier.

Groom & bridesmaids I wore a Ralph Lauren linen suit. The bridesmaid, Omega's sister Olivia, wore a white suit – with shorts and a jacket.

The details We chose the Sandals Resorts’ ‘Island Paradise’ theme, which uses the vibrant colours of the Caribbean islands in its decorations. We also chose to upgrade to the ‘Twilight’ package, so that we could enjoy the beautiful St Lucian twilight hour.

The Island Paradise theme includes orchids in bright tropical colours (magenta, pink, orange, and yellow).

The bamboo ceremony arch was embellished with banana leaves, and the centrepieces were natural wood trays, filled with tropical fruits and bright blooms.

The cake, which was a Chocolate and Coconut Cake, was also trimmed with fresh orchids for a Caribbean feel. The table decorations were in coral colours with colourful orchids in conch shells and pretty lanterns.

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The ceremony Our wedding ceremony lasted around 25 minutes and took place at the end of the beach in a private area. We were married by Dr Urban Seraphim, a judge who was originally from Lewisham in the UK and who had lived in St Lucia for many years. A gentleman! Omega’s father ‘gave her away’. We kept our wedding service traditional non-religious, although a guest kindly surprised us with a Sandals Sand Ceremony!

The reception After the wedding ceremony we had our reception in Neptunes, one of the restaurants on the resort, which is adjacent to the beach. The restaurant was closed to other guests, it was just our wedding party. The menu included: Blue Marlin Carpaccio with citrus fragrant oil sea salt and crushed pink pepper corns; Roasted red pepper & tomato bisque; Grilled pinwheel skewered shrimp on ginger mashed sweet potato with sake infused miso cream sauce; Chocolate pudding with caramel bananas and chocolate crisp.

The music of love Our First Dance was to Ed Sheeran Thinking Out Loud performed by two work colleagues live – a singer and guitarist. Our entertainment consisted of friends singing and then the DJ.

Photographic memories Sandals Resort’s in-house photographers, Snapshots, did both the photos and the video. My favourite photograph is of us walking up the aisle with confetti falling behind us. The smiles on our faces are the widest I have ever seen and it’s wonderful to see our guests so happy! Some of the sunset pictures are lovely too.

Magic moments Omega says that her favourite moment was seeing me standing under the arch waiting for her and smiling like a Cheshire cat!

The honeymoon We spent three more nights at Sandals Regency La Toc after the wedding – to try and recover!! Then we will be going to the USA later in the year for our honeymoon.

On budget?

Our St Lucia wedding cost £8,000 plus the cost of a 7-day holiday in Butler Suite at the Sandals Regency La Toc. The price included the Island Paradise theme (flowers, decoration, cake etc), all of the standard complimentary wedding inclusions, twilight upgrade, dinner and drinks for 38, bridal spa package, DJ and steel band.

This was a little over budget once non-resort guests had been added, plus some photo upgrades etc. But overall it was very reasonable when compared to UK!

Further information WEDDING PLANNER UK: Jessica Gorman WEDDING PLANNER IN ST LUCIA: Tayo Alexander VENUE: Sandals Regency La Toc Golf & Spa PHOTOGRAPHER: Sandals Resorts (Snapshots)

www.BridesAbroad.tv 73

Steal the Caribbean

Style

Pineapple earrings, £271 www.gemporia.com

Pineapple ring, £160 www.gemporia.com

Be a beautiful beach bride at your Caribbean wedding with shells, splashes of rich colours and tropical flowers to reflect the vibrant hues of the West Indies

Earrings, £139 www.cadenzza.co.uk

Necklace, £249 www.cadenzza.co.uk

Ring, £79 www.cadenzza.co.uk

Silk flower bouquet, £62.95 www.sarahsflowers.co.uk

Conch shell T-light, £26 www.in-spaces.com Starfish T Light, £24 www.in-space.com

Starfish sandals, £78 www.aspiga.com 74 www.BridesAbroad.tv

Dress, style Calista www.kellyfaetanini.com

Colourful bunting, £12.95 www.dotcomgiftshop.co.uk

Saint lucia’s best kept Secret

Celebrate your love on the most romantic island in the world at its most romantic resort...Eastwinds, a secret hideaway to share only with someone special.

Call 0208 977 6099 or visit www.eastwinds.com or your favourite travel agent

Mauritius – island paradise!

Mark Twain said of Mauritius that: “it was made first and then heaven, and that heaven was copied after Mauritius” – Alan Benstock discovers why this stunning island in the Indian Ocean is such a firm favourite for weddings and honeymoons 76 www.BridesAbroad.tv

Whether it was the pristine white-sand beaches, the cobalt blue waters that surround it or the stunning volcanic mountains at its heart that inspired Twain’s words, it’s easy to understand why so many describe the island as ‘paradise’.

Mauritius is a country that exudes unique tropical flair and panache. It is these qualities that make it an idyllic choice for your wedding day and a blissful honeymoon destination.

The island’s beautiful foreshores, while being gently lapped by azure waters of the Indian Ocean, are dream locations for beach weddings. With so many coves and inlets there are many dramatic backdrops to choose from. Venues around Flic en Flac on the west coast all have stunning views of Le Morne mountain; whilst those between Grand Gaube and Poudre d’Or in the north-east coast of Mauritius offer the jewel-like islets of Ile d’Ambre and Serpent Island as the perfect setting for those special photographs.

Mauritius has many romantic alternative venues to sand and sea to hold your wedding so you can be as creative and individual as you want! Ceremonies amongst magnificent banyan trees or surrounded by giant water lilies are held in the island’s nature reserves and botanical gardens. For the more adventurous, how about having a shoal of brightly coloured tropical fish as your witnesses with an underwater ceremony?

8 Top things to do 1

Take a boat trip to the mangroves of Ile d’Ambre and snorkel with the colourful tropical fish of the Indian Ocean. Have a barbecue on the island and see if you can get the crew to teach you the Sega!

2

Visit the Casela nature park for a day of adventure including sliding and swinging on zip-wires over canyons and waterfalls. There are also quad bikes for even more fun.

3

An early morning boat trip to go dolphin and whale watching off the west coast of the island is an absolute must. If you are lucky you may get to swim with them too!

Saying “I do” As marriages can take place anywhere on Mauritius highly personal weddings can be arranged. Most hotels will offer packages to make your special day both romantic and hassle free. Couples will be guided through all the possibilities and the various packages available.

Given the distances and travelling involved, it is not always possible for all your family and friends to be with you on the heavenly island to share your special day. In addition to videoing the occasion, many hotels have facilities to Skype live your wedding so those back home join in the celebrations.

Legals The requirements to marry in Mauritius are not onerous in particular, as for a non-religious civil wedding the bride and groom only have to arrive on the island three days ahead of the ceremony. Whilst religious weddings are possible, there is a much longer residence period of 15 days required.

There are a couple of specific pieces of paperwork you need to produce in addition to your passports and confirmation that any previous marriages have come to an end. These are copies of your birth certificates, re-issued and dated within three months of your wedding date and if the bride has been divorced within 10 months of the intended date of the ceremony a certificate of non-pregnancy from a Mauritian doctor is necessary.

4 5 6 7 8

Stroll hand in hand through the Pamplemousse Botanical Gardens and marvel at the giant Victoria lilies. On the way there, as you pass through Port Louis, call in at the Blue Penny Museum to see one of the most valuable stamps in the world.

Spend an evening stargazing in the company of a local astronomer who will guide you through the wonders of the cosmos.

Have a picnic on the sweeping beaches of Flic en Flac, surrounded by the whistling filao trees, and then go shopping for cultured pearls, harvested fresh from the Indian Ocean, in the local shops.

Visit one of the many local markets to pick up some bargains and also sample some great street food!

Take a trek to the Tamarind Falls Reserve - one of the most beautiful and calmest places in Mauritius, and the best place for nature and animal lovers. There are breathtaking views over the west coast and over Le Morne Mountain.

For those wanting an underwater diving wedding, the Marriage License needs to be issued at least ten days before the dive.

It is important to remember that venues can only hold one wedding a day. It is, therefore, essential to check that the date you want is available before you make your travel plans.

Wedding packages are often priced in Euros as well as the local currency, which is the Mauritian Rupee. This can be useful when comparing exchange rates.

www.BridesAbroad.tv 77

Casela World of Adventures

Nirvana for honeymoons There is no doubt that Mauritius is a number one spot for romantic honeymoons. However, gorgeous as the beaches most definitely are, there are plenty of things to do and see as a change from spending your entire honeymoon relaxing on the beach.

Couples have a myriad of activities to choose from – a day trip on a catamaran to an isolated islet for a lobster barbeque or for a morning swim with dolphins; riding mountain bikes through the Trou aux Cerfs volcanic crater – the home to spectacular Mauritian flora, fauna and bird life; or a walk with lions in Casela

Nature Reserve. For the really adventurous there are zip-wires and swings across stunning canyons and over waterfalls.

Port Louis, the island’s capital, and in particular the Cauden Waterfront is the place for shopping trips. For a more informal experience there are many traditional and colourful markets around Mauritius where bargains can be had if you are happy to haggle.

The fascinating mix of cultures in Mauritius means there is a wide variety of cuisines to try on the island. There is fine French food and local Creole fayre together with dishes and flavours of Indian and Chinese origin. Taste buds are never left wanting with many hotels offering exceptional dining experiences and choices.

Capturing the essence and heart of Mauritius is the Sega (pronounced ‘Saygah’). This unique, vibrant dance involves sensuous movements of the hips to an evocative beat. It is easy to learn and once you and your partner hear the ever-increasing tempo you will understand why it is so popular on the island.

Further information www.tourism-mauritius.mu 78 www.BridesAbroad.tv

Sparkling sandy beach, tropical palms and the crystal clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean...We know what your special wedding day or honeymoon means to you and and we want it to be as perfect as you imagine it to be...

This romantic luxurious 5-star hotel renowned for its delights, is gently nestled within a picturesque private estate.

The Maritim truly is beyond paradise...

From

Book now: 020 3199 4963

£ 1,299* per person

• 7 nights All Inclusive - Free luxury brunch at the Château Mon Désir • Free upgrade to the next room category • Free upgrade to limousine transfers • Free Wedding Package: venue decoration, witnesses, gift, 1 bottle of sparkling wine & a candlelit dinner at the Château Mon Désir

*Conditions apply • Booking Code #LHDWEDDINGS • Subject to availability and valid for departures from May to September 2016

Maritim Resort & Spa Mauritius • Turtle Bay • Balaclava • www.maritim.mu

REAL WEDDINGS

TROPICAL VOWS IN

MAURITIUS There was magic in the air when Elouise Carter from Berkshire met husband-to-be Darren Street at the home of a mutual friend, and very soon after they were planning their romantic wedding ceremony on the stunning island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean, with their nearest and dearest to cheer them on as they exchanged vows in paradise

Finding ‘the one’ I met Darren by chance after I returned from a trip abroad visiting my mum. I went round to my friend’s house to get ready for a night out, and whilst I was there Darren popped round to see my friend who he knew previously. I was wondering which of two outfits I should wear and held them up to him and asked his opinion. Darren then asked if we could possibly meet up the next night. It wasn’t quite love at first sight, but it was almost!

The proposal He popped the question to me at home.

He took me by surprise in the kitchen and said we shold marry. We hadn’t been together very long at all, but he said he knew he wanted to marry me. It was totally unexpected!

Location location We wanted something intimate in a beautiful setting for our wedding that we would always cherish. We wanted our family to be part of it too, and wanted something that they would also always remember as being very special. We decided to go somewhere breathtaking, and where we wouldn’t usually go on

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holiday. We researched on line and saw some very good reviews from people who had travelled to Mauritius. The hotel we chose, the Heritage Awali also had extremely good reviews.

we went, we planned our colours, which were based a lot around our 8-year-old bridesmaid. We also planned a little about what we wanted for our day, i.e. a musician and private meal after the ceremony.

The planning We made all our arrangements via tour operator Tropical Sky and also used the services of the wedding planner based at the hotel. Tropical Sky were great with all the arrangements, we couldn’t have asked for better. Any emails sent were answered and nothing seemed too much bother for them to assist us with. Before

The guests We took five guests in all, including both sets of parents and Darren’s daughter.

They all stayed at the Heritage Awali with us. It was a small family celebration and everyone we wanted to be there accepted our invitation.

Getting the look My wedding dress was a gorgeous Maggie Soterro gown in alabaster (rather than the usual white or ivory). I purchased it on line from a wedding boutique. I had a local seamstress so knew I was safe to purchase on line and any alterations required would be taken care of. Our colour scheme was hot pink and alabaster, and a tropical theme.

I accessorised the look with a neclace, bracelet and earring set (with a matching set for my bridesmaid). I also unexpectedly receievd a gift of a

Elouise and Darren's family beach ceremony

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REAL WEDDINGS diamond tennis bracelet from my husband. The hotel hairdresser did both mine and my bridesmaid’s hair and I did my own makeup.

Something Old, Something New? Old was me! New was the dress and accessories, Borrowed was my bridesmaid (she is Darren’s daughter) and Blue was a little Swarovski heart on an ankle chain.

Groom & bridesmaid Darren wore an ivory coloured suit and hot pink shirt. Our bridesmaid had two outfits!

For the ceremony she had a full length hot pink dress overlayed with netting with hot pink ballet shoes. For the evening she wore a knee length light pink and white satin dress with a petals pattern on it and white ballet shoes.

The details We had a tropical wedding with orchids for the bouquets and button holes. Our wedding cake was a chocolate heart shaped cake covered in white icing and pink flowers, with our names written in pink icing.

The ceremony Our ceremony was held in the wedding gazebo between the garden and the beach. It was private enough not to be overlooked and covered enough not be be directly in the sunlight. It had a very romantic hideaway feel to it. The ceremony lasted approximately 25 mins, and we

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were married by a Mauritian Civil Officer. My Stepfather gave me away.

The reception We had a six-course gala meal in the beach kiosk down on the beach. The food was absolutely delicious – Prawn salad with sesame and honey, palm heart with orange, balsamic reduction; Pan-fried Ombrine fillet with saffron glazed carrot and sundried tomato emulsion; Grilled Lobster tail with vanilla risotto with mascarpone, basil cream sauce; Rodrigues green lemon sorbet, white rum; Roasted lamb rack, sauted mushrooms with garlic, soft potato, black truffle jus; Sweet Farandole from the South.

As for the decorations, the chair covers matched our theme of hot pink.

The music of love We had a saxaphonist during the ceremony and whilst we had cocktails then after our meal there was a DJ in the restaurant/bar.

For our First Dance we chose Destiny by Zero Seven.

Photographic memories We used a local photographer called Rudy but chose not to have a video. The girls were given a bridal suite to get ready in, which had a hairdressing side and then across the room was the dressing side. It was very cool in there with chill out music to make you feel really relaxed. Rudy was with us from the moment the girls entered the bridal suite to get ready. He snapped away throughout the process of us getting our hair done, make up and getting the dresses on. He was brilliant, he managed to capture so many natural pictures and we didnt even know he was there.

Magic moments The whole day was so magical, I really couldn’t pick one special memory.

However, the funniest was trying to walk up the beach for pictures in 5-inch heels, holding my dress!

The honeymoon We had an extra week after our guests had gone home to relax and enjoy each other’s company and, even though we thoroughly enjoyed that time, we kind of missed those who went home!

On budget?

The whole wedding cost approximately £11k. We didn’t really set a budget, we just wanted a magical time

Further information WEDDING PLANNER UK Karen Andrews, Tropical Sky Tel : 01342 886571 www.tropicalsky.co.uk WEDDING PLANNER AT RESORT Natascha VENUE Heritage Awali in Mauritius PHOTOGRAPHER Rudy

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Maritim Mauritius Maritim Mauritius is a gorgeous retreat, ideally located on the sheltered north-west coast of Mauritius, which is truly idyllic for dream weddings and honeymoons Set along a natural sandy beach and bordered by Turtle Bay, the first marine park in Mauritius, Maritim Mauritius is a luxurious 5-star resort nestling in a 25-hectare historical estate. The hotel offers an exclusive array of facilities and experiences combined with the highest standards of service, delivered with genuine Mauritian hospitality. Maritim Mauritius was awarded 'Most Beautiful Garden in Mauritius 2012', so naturally these stunning grounds are a beautiful setting for wedding ceremonies!

The hotel offers 215 ocean-facing rooms, each luxuriously furnished to the highest standard, plus an award-winning selection of five restaurants, including the Belle Vue with beautiful Indian Ocean views featuring 'live cooking to order', fresh tropical buffets and Japanese sushi; La Marée Restaurant offering a 'feet in the sand' experience and specialising in seafood and grills; The Asian fusion Le Banyan Restaurant; and the elegant Chateau Mon Désir, serving gourmet cuisine in an historic colonial-style mansion overlooking the ruins of an 18th century mill.

The Maritim Tropical Flower Spa is a luxurious oasis of tranquillity, where couples can enjoy pre and post wedding pampering and relaxation under a cascading waterfall or in 12 individual treatment villas and also in a private massage kiosk on the beach.

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A wide choice of activities will entertain wedding parties and honeymooners including yoga, pilates, a jogging track and a fully-equipped 'Techno Gym' Fitness Centre with personal trainers.

Plus an infinite range of land and water sports free of charge, including a 9-hole (PAR 29) golf course, mini golf, a giant tortoise park and the hotel’s own equestrian centre.

Weddings The Maritim Resort & Spa is a fabulous venue for weddings with tropical flair. It offers a variety of gorgeous wedding settings, including the sandy beach, on the jetty, on a boat, or a gazebo amid the exotic gardens. Or choose a special place such as under the romantic banyan trees, in front of the historical 'Ruins of Balaclava' and by the waterfalls of the Citron River. Impress your guests with a firework display and Mauritian dancers.

Wedding receptions can also be held in a choice of venues, including private dining on the beach and in the tropical gardens as well as in the hotel’s restaurants.

Further information Maritim Mauritius Balaclava Tel: 020 3199 4963 www.maritim.mu

ONE AMAZING HONEYMOON MANY UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES Heritage Resorts, Mauritius with tropicalsky.co.uk

Celebrate your special occasion at either of the two truly luxurious and sophisticated Heritage resorts, both set in an idyllic location on the stunning island of Mauritius.

Book now for great savings and a FREE Honeymoon or Classic Wedding package* *Legal costs of ÂŁ324 for wedding package payable. Please visit our website for full details of our Honeymoon and Wedding Package inclusions.

visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk or call our specialists on 01342 886991

LUX*

Grand Gaube

On the Northern coastline and moments away from the quiet fisherman's village of Grand Gaube from which it takes its name, the 5-star LUX* Grand Gaube, nestles on a secluded peninsula with breath taking views This beautiful hotel overlooks the islets of Coin de Mire, Ile Plate, Ile Ronde, Ile aux Serpents and Ilot Gabriel and boasts three beaches and its own serene lagoon in an idyllic, tranquil location, which is perfect for wedding and honeymoons.

The LUX* Grand Gaube admits it is shamelessly abundant in tropicalparadise clichés – from palm treestrung hammocks to feet-in-the-sand dining. That said, there is so much more on offer – beanbags which are perfect for flumping beneath swaying coco palms and colourful bougainvillea; home-made ice cream served from the hotel's Ice Cream Parlour built into an old British Leyland Mini; iced-coffee on tap and the only alfresco cinema on Mauritius! There is even an astronomer who visits each week to explain the stars in the magnificently clear night sky.

If you want to venture out of the resort, the village of Cap Malheureux, local markets of Goodlands and the bustling nightlife of Grand Baie await, and are all easily accessible. The hotel can also arrange boat trips to neighbouring islets for snorkeling and BBQs with an 86 www.BridesAbroad.tv

opportunity of fishing en route. And should you want to call home to tell your family and friends about your stay at the resort, there is an old GPO red telephone box from where you can make free calls!

Weddings The attentive staff will ensure your special day is just that - special and unique to you! Whether it is the menu for your celebratory dinner, the flowers or the music, they are more than happy to help. To ensure all the paper work is in order it is recommended you arrive at least three days before your intended wedding day. This will give you plenty of time to unwind and relax. To help you there is the LUX* Me Spa offering a full range of treatments using natural essences, fragrant flowers and healthenhancing spices, all blended to ensure you and your fiancé are ready for the big day.

Further information Lux Grand Gaube Tel: +230 204 9191 www.luxresorts.com

Sands

Suite Resort And Spa

On arrival at Sands Suite Resort & Spa take time to absorb the stunning view of the majestic 'Le Morne' mountain across the cobalt blue lagoon and bay of Tamarin – what a beautiful backdrop for your wedding photographs!

However, whatever you do, take time to be awe-struck by the rich sunsets along the seashore as the sun dips into the Indian Ocean.

Tucked away at the southern end of the village of Flic en Flac, on the west coast of Mauritius, Sands Resort is often described as one of the island's best-kept secrets – a little gem for couples seeking honeymoon bliss in a cosy, tranquil haven. From here you can enjoy the gorgeous views of the Le Morne - a bare, rocky mountain, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Weddings Sands boasts a sweeping beach, which is ideal as a wedding venue, whether for just the two of you or a larger party. The hotel's wedding planner will ensure your special day is individual to you – and a wide range of options are available to make it bespoke to your personal tastes. One of the most romantic moments of your special day will signing of the register on the beach in the shade of the giant coqueluche tree.

The resort is relatively small by Mauritian standards with only 92 Deluxe Rooms and Suites. This means the Sands Resort never feels crowded and there will always be space on the beach, around the pool and in any of the four restaurants and bars. Be sure to dine on the beach where romantic dinners are served under the coqueluche trees.

Personal service is assured at Sands Resort along with many little extra touches to make your stay totally unforgettable.

Check-in takes place in your suite with detailed information given about all the facilities – and throughout the day refreshing drinks and nibbles are brought round. There is a wide choice of complementary water-sports and other activities with free tuition and personal coaching – even in the gym.

For those wanting to explore the village of Flic en Flac guests can use one of the hotel's mountain bikes, a guide will be happy to take you to one of the many local places of interest. In Flic en Flac you will find excellent street food and impromptu Sega dancing and music, amongst the whistling filao trees.

For pre-wedding pampering The Sandsation Spa is a delight. The body and beauty treatments rely solely on the power of nature and the wisdom gained from centuries old tradition. You will be left feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and glowing with vitality ready for your big day.

Further information Sands Resort & Spa Flic en Flac Mauritius www.sands.mu www.BridesAbroad.tv 87

Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa

Situated on the beach of the historic Turtle Bay in Balaclava, on the North West coast, the Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa is an idyllic place to say "I do" and is a blissful haven for honeymooners. with a sweet tooth! The resort also offers the Westin brand’s signature Superfoods RX™ menu – healthy and exceptional food combinations rich in nutrients, antioxidants and regional flavour.

The bay, from which the Westin Turtle Bay takes its name, was the former breeding ground of the Mauritian green sea turtle.

Now, with an eye to sustainability, the resort aims to interact with the environment as well as local communities.

Westin Turtle Bay is just steps away from a stunning natural beach and boasts two outdoor pools, watersports, tennis, golf, eco-friendly boat trips and local excursions to keep you happy and occupied throughout your stay. It is ideally positioned to explore the island. It is just 15 kilometres from Grand Baie, the hub of Mauritius, which is renowned for excellent shopping, restaurants, bars and nightlife.

The beautiful Westin Turtle Bay resort has been designed to incorporate the natural beauty of the Mauritian scenery, and has been built using natural tropical elements, including local teak and lava rocks, to create a serene and elegant atmosphere.

The suites and bedrooms have all been luxuriously designed to ensure a feeling of sophistication. Romantic touches are everywhere for newlyweds.

Away for the beach, guests can further relax in the Heavenly Spa by Westin, designed to enliven and heal the mind, body and spirit and uplift the senses. One of the spa’s signature treatments is the Rollersage ritual to release burdens and cleanse your spirit. This exclusive stressrelieving treatment is just one of many therapeutic rituals available – perfect for pre and post wedding pampering.

Weddings Planning your special day at Westin Turtle Bay could not be easier as the experienced wedding planning staff are on hand to guide you every step of the way. The hotel offers various packages to suit all tastes and budgets.

Further information Westin Turtle Bay boasts five dining venues, including two specialty restaurants reflecting the diverse cuisine of the island.

With internationally-trained staff, the chef de cuisine ensures that dishes of the 88 www.BridesAbroad.tv

highest quality are prepared with flair. The menus are a delight, in particular the Trilogie de Chocolat dessert – a most divine and memorable experience for those

Westin Turtle Bay Balaclava Mauritius Tel: (230) 204 1400 www.westinturtlebaymauritius.com

Steal the

Indian Ocean

Style

Orchid hairband style Lola, £15.99 www.silkblooms.co.uk

Soft floaty fabrics, delicate tropical flowers and breezy shades of white depict the glorious powder sandy beaches and tropical vegetation indigenous to the islands of the Indian Ocean.

Floral hair clips, £9 www.rosegardenaccessories.co.uk

Flower necklace, £15 www.evans.co.uk Finger bracelet, £12 www.debenhams.com

Sandals, £78 www.aspiga.com

Flower earrings

by Allure www.bhs.co.uk

Hanging heart T-light holder, £9.95 www.dotcomgiftshop.com

Silk orchid bouquet, style Lola, £219.99 www.silkblooms.co.uk

Dress, £495 www.phase-eight.com

Floral lights, £19 www.dotcomgiftshop.com www.BridesAbroad.tv 89

Planning Guide

92 Weather permitting Don't let your wedding day be a washout – check our worldwide weather guide for the sunniest beaches, snowiest peaks and perfect temperatures

96 Pop the question Expert wedding planners answer your most frequently asked questions

98 Beauty countdown Start your health and beauty routine in good time for your wedding with our month-by-month guide

100 Ask the planners Lisa Burton of the Bridal Consultant professional wedding planning service shares her wisdom and experience with brides-to-be www.BridesAbroad.tv 91

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

Best for November-April Caribbean Mexico Thailand Australia and New Zealand Maldives South Africa Dubai European ski destinations 92 www.BridesAbroad.tv

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 and chilled

Cool and chilled

Canada, European Alps, Iceland, Scandinavia, Iceland, 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 and chilled Canada, USA, European Alps, Scandinavia, Iceland

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

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

Cool and chilled European Alps, Scandinavia

Something different Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, India

Jungle & Safari Belize, Borneo, Botswana, Costa Rica, South Africa, Zambia

Avoid

Avoid

Alaska

Alaska, Kenya, Tanzania

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rg e h t ttin a Weermi p

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 and chilled Alaska, Iceland

Something different

Cool and chilled Alaska, New Zealand

Something different Peru, France, Scandinavia, Scotland, Ireland

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

Jungle & Safari

Jungle & Safari

Borneo, Botsana, Tanzania, Zambia

Belize, Borneo, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia

Avoid

Avoid Caribbean, Cuba, Dubai, Egypt, Maldives

Caribbean, Cuba, Kenya, Maldives, Tanzania

July

August

Hot spots

Hot spots

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

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

Cool and chilled

Cool and chilled

Alaska, New Zealand

Alaska, New Zealand

Something different

Something different

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

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

Jungle & Safari

Jungle & Safari

Borneo, Botsana, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia

Borneo, Botsana, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia

Avoid

Avoid

Caribbean, Cuba, Dubai, Egypt

Beliza, Caribbean, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dubai, Egypt

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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 and chilled Alaska, New Zealand

Something different Egypt, France, Hong Kong, Italy, Peru. Sri Lanka, USA

Jungle & Safari Borneo, Botswana, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia

Cool and chilled Canada, USA

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

Jungle & Safari 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 and chilled

Cool and 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

Avoid

Alaska, Borneo

Alaska, Borneo

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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 operators Kuoni are destination wedding specialists. They say the average price of their 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.

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, 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?

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

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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.

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 oneday passes for guests staying at other hotels, and in adults-only 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.

choice of themed weddings, which feature colour-co-ordinated cakes to match the chosen wedding palette.

Who will take care of my hair and makeup?

Every bride wants to look her best and fortunately many hotels have hair and beauty services with makeup 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?

At your pre-wedding meeting, your wedding planner will show you examples of local photographers work so that you can choose the style that suits you best.

Your video can also be arranged when you get to the resort. Photographer and DVD are usually at extra cost; they are rarely included in your wedding package.

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.

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 candle-lit dinner for two in a romantic location.

We want friends and family at the ceremony but can we be alone for our honeymoon?

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

Will I have a cake?

And finally…

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

Speak to Brides Abroad’s Wedding Planning Team on 0800 211 8255.

How can I find out more?

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Bridal Beauty Diary Ensure that you look picture-perfect on your special day with our wedding beauty countdown In the final run up to your big day it’s time to start thinking about getting your bridal look polished to perfection. But there’s plenty of beauty planning to consider. You need to book appointments well in advance and make sure your skin is photo-ready.

The style team from online beauty retailer Hairtrade.com have put all your beauty needs into an easy-to-follow timetable, to ensure you look beautiful on your wedding day. From starting a skin care regime to having a trial run of your make-up, there’s plenty to fit in and getting the timing right is crucial.

The timetable also includes practical advice to help you de-stress before you

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walk down the aisle, like trying out yoga and having a relaxing massage.

Beauty expert Laura Meredith from Hairtrade.com says: “The perfect wedding look doesn’t just happen overnight, it takes weeks and months of careful planning to get right. You need to factor in the timescale of when to do what, after all, you don’t want to have a facial the night before your wedding and risk a blotchy, allergic reaction on the big day.

“Your wedding day is the ultimate excuse to devote some ‘me’ time to yourself, so invest in your beauty routine to get yourself looking gorgeous in those wedding photos.”

6

MONTHS TO GO

Get serious about skin care If you don’t already have a skin care routine, start getting into the habit now.

No more going to bed with your make-up still on. A simple cleanse, tone and moisturise regime will keep your skin in tip-top condition.

Start exercising Exercising is not just important for getting in shape but also for reducing stress levels.

Try yoga to increase posture strength and relieve tension. You’ll be looking and feeling great both on the inside and outside.

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MONTHS TO GO

Book make-up consultations If you’re getting your make-up professionally done, consult with a few different make-up artists to see which one you are happy with. Once you’ve found the one that gets the look you want, book early to avoid disappointment.

Experiment with fake tan You don’t want to have a streaky fiasco on your wedding day, so leave yourself plenty of time to get your bridal golden glow.

Think about the neckline of your dress and any existing tan lines you’ll need to even out.

Teeth whitening Start an at-home teeth whitening routine to give you perfect pearly whites. Don’t leave this to the last minute as you need to factor in sensitivity and you might not get the results you’re after with a quick session a day or two before the wedding.

Alternatively, consult your dental hygienist and book a deep cleaning and polishing treatment in time for your wedding.

1

MONTH TO GO

Have a make-up trial In your head, the idea of trying Kim Kardashian-style contouring may be a good idea, but have a practice with it in advance, as the style might not suit you. If you’re doing your own make-up, now’s the time to buy the products you’d like.

Ask for samples from beauty counters to give them a test run before you buy.

Better still, have a make-up session with a beauty consultant at your local department store.

Get your eyebrows shaped Get your eyebrows shaped professionally, and tinted if required. This will leave enough time to grow them out in places if needed.

Salon facial or facemask at home Time to start making your skin glow. Book in for a facial or start using facemasks at home. Do not do this the day before the wedding in case you have a reaction to the product.

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WEEKS TO GO

Cut down on tea and coffee You don’t need a full on detox, but cutting down on tea and coffee will reduce staining your teeth and flush your body of caffeine.

Exfoliate and moisturise To get those silky soft elbows, hands and feet, start an exfoliating and moisturising treatment once or twice a week.

1

WEEK TO GO

Drink lots of water Staying hydrated is the cheapest and easiest beauty trick in the book. Aim to drink one and half litres of water a day for clear glowing skin.

Bikini wax and shave legs Make sure everything is silky smooth ready for your bikini on the honeymoon.

Splurge on a massage You’ll probably be under a lot of pressure the week leading up to the wedding so treat yourself to a relaxing massage with your maid of honour. It will relax your muscles and increase circulation.

1

DAY TO GO

Pack an emergency make-up kit Get all your essential make-up for touch ups packed and give it to a trusty bridesmaid.

Get mani-pedi done You’ll be too excited to sit patiently and wait for your nails to dry on the big day so make this one of the last things you do the night before. Go gel with your manicure and pedicure to keep the colour lasting right through to your honeymoon.

Have a bath Unwind in the tub to ease your mind of any pre-wedding jitters. Try adding some essential oils for luxuriously soft skin the next day.

8-10 hours sleep They don’t call it beauty sleep for nothing, so get a good night’s rest for the big day.

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Ask the planners!

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

To invite or not to invite

The groom's attire

Top table trouble

I'm thinking about booking a wedding abroad rather than in the UK due to it being cheaper and a lot less stressful!

My only problem is that I am only inviting my closest friends and family and I know a lot of people will be upset that they have not been invited to one of the most important days of my life. I would really love everyone to be there but my budget just won't stretch to this. How can I let them know that I want them there but can't due to this reason?

Jenny, Edinburgh

I am having a beach wedding in Greece next year and my hubby-to-be is worried about what he will wear. He doesn't want to feel uncomfortable all day due to being too hot in a suit. Can you recommend something for him to wear that is smart yet suitable for the hot temperatures?

Kate, Plymouth

I'm getting married in just under three months and I'm struggling to come up with a seating plan that will suit both my divorced, and now remarried parents!

The last thing I want on my wedding day is tension at the top table! Is there an alternative to the traditional top table set up?

Suzanne, Newcastle

Hi Jenny This is always a tricky situation! Have you tried simply telling them the truth?

Explaining that you would love for them to be there to but because of your budget restrictions you can't invite as many people as you would like. Often just the fact that you are being honest with them will avoid any upset. Also, have you considered a small get together when you get home with those that couldn't make it abroad? It doesn't have to be an expensive 'do' but perhaps lunch or dinner at one of your favourite restaurants? Of course they can also get involved in your hen and stag do.

As heat will be a big factor of the day it is important that whatever he chooses to wear is comfortable for the duration of the day. A waistcoat and a cravat is a great choice for a wedding abroad as it doesn't require a suit jacket. However, if he does want to wear a suit then I recommend linen as this is a very cool fabric. Another option is to go down the stylish yet casual route by wearing a suit and jacket with an open neck collar. There are many options other than the traditional three-piece suit. Start the search early on, try on different styles and see what works best whilst keeping in mind the hot temperatures!

Contact Lisa: Do you have any questions for Lisa Burton, The Bridal Consultant?

Email your questions to: lisaburton@thebridalconsultants.com

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Hi Suzanne

Hi Kate

Family drama is definitely not what you want on your big day! Why not have a top table with just you and your bridesmaids and groomsmen and then have each set of parents host their own table? Could be a solution. However, your parents may feel excluded so best to check with them before making any final decisions. Another alternative is to have a 'Sweetheart' table for just you and your partner, this is a great idea if you want to have some alone time together to reflect on the day. Another idea that is becoming increasingly popular is to leave a couple of free chairs at each table, this way you can move around and mingle with all of your guests throughout the evening.

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.thebridalconsultants.com

Honeymoons

102 Honeymoon essentials Fabulous fashions and accessories you mustn't leave home without!

104 Honeymoon beauty mistakes!

Be prepared for a beautiful honeymoon!

106 Italy with love From the rolling hills and vineyards of Tuscany to the breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast, a honeymoon in Italy will never cease to delight newlyweds.

114 4 Far East favourites For a colourful, vibrant honeymoon swap the beach for city life and discover the most exciting urban destinations in South East Asia.

120 Villa Italia For a fabulous short-haul honeymoon, relax in boutique-style luxury at the charming Villa Italia in Majorca’s Port d’Andratx.

www.BridesAbroad.tv 101

Honeymoon Essentials

don’t leave home without…

Sandals, £40 www.fitflop.co.uk

Bikini, £11 www.southbeachofficial.com

Engraved leather luggage label, £32 www.chambersandbeau.com

Watch, £255 www.follifollie.com

Sunglasses, £295 www.olivergoldsmith.co.uk

Bracelet, £39.99 www.shimlajewellery.com

Moroccan Argan Oil, £16.99 www.alassala.co.uk

Backpack, £200 www.laportegna.com

Elemis Lime & Ginger Salt Glow, £36.50 www.elemis.com 102 www.BridesAbroad.tv

Poncho, £39 www.accessorize.com

Gold Chatelles shoes, £150 www.mychatelles.com

See you on the romantic Nile LUXOR - ASWAN

www.egypt.travel

HONEYMOON

BEAUTY MISTAKES! and how to avoid them!

We want to look our very best on honeymoon, so BRIDES ABROAD has come up with a guide to 15 common holiday beauty disasters – and ways to ensure that they don't happen to you!

We’ve all been there, enjoying carefree days in the sun, and then you have a beauty mishap. Hair starting to turn green from too much time in the pool, accidentally going over the top with fake tan and looking down to find chipped nails are just some of the most common beauty hazards.

Now the beauty experts at Hairtrade.com have revealed 15 beauty mistakes and the best ways to avoid them to help prevent these problems.

Laura Meredith of Hairtrade.com says: “in the run up to your wedding and honeymoon you need to plan so many things – so it’s easy to forget about honeymoon beauty until it’s too late. From choosing the right SPF to figuring out how to self-tan, there are many different things to consider.”

SKIN CARE

1.

Patchy SPF application

Problem: If you are rushing out to get the best spot by the pool or are having a midday touch up, it’s easy to miss patches when applying sun cream. The only thing worse than regular sunburn is a silly sunburnt patch – and it can be painful!

Solution: Use a spray SPF rather than a lotion to ensure you don’t miss anywhere. Try the once a day spray sun protection P20, which is very water 104 www.BridesAbroad.tv

resistant and provides protection for up to 10 hours. Available in SPF 15, 20, 30 & 50. Price £13.29 for 100 ml and £24.49 for 200 ml.

Available from pharmacy and grocery stores nationwide.

2. Tan

lines

Problem: Getting back to the hotel after a busy day and noticing you’re looking tanned is great – until you change into another top and find that you have terrible tan lines!

Solution: Go for a strapless bikini and move your position often to get an even tan.

3.

Overdoing the fake tan

before you go

Problem: Before your honeymoon it is tempting to self-tan to avoid looking pasty when you get to the beach. Sometimes, a spray tan can look a little much and you’ll come home looking less tanned than when you left.

Solution: Use a gradual tanner in the run-up to your wedding and honeymoon, so that you can monitor your tan and avoid going overboard.

4.

Streaky self-tanner

Problem: If you do choose to tan before your trip, the last thing you want is for it to look unnatural thanks to streaky patches.

Solution: Exfoliate before fake tanning and use bronzer to blend in areas that aren’t perfect.

5.

Skipping moisturizer

Problem: Whether it’s because you’re feeling lazy, or you substitute moisturizer for sun cream, this is a big “NO”. Air conditioning and hot weather both dry out skin, which isn’t only uncomfortable, but also makes sunburn worse!

Solution: Pack a light moisturizer that includes Aloe Vera and apply before your sun cream each morning.

HAIR

6.

Green hair after being

in the pool

Problem: The water chlorine from swimming pools can leave blonde hair with a slight green-hue that most agree isn’t a good look!

If you’re spending the week in the pool this is something you’ll want to avoid.

Solution: Bring a UV spray to protect your hair. Wash your hair with Shampoo A.S. from La Biosthetique’s Methode Soleil Hair Care range, which gently removes sea and chlorine residue while protecting the hair from pigment loss. (£18.25 for 250ml)

7.

Dry hair from being

in the sea

Problem: The sea is a key culprit for leaving your hair dry and dull, since too much salt is bad for your hair. If you find your hair difficult to tame after a day at the beach you’ll know where we’re coming from!

Solution: Soak your hair with clean water before you go in the sea to create a barrier from seawater and bring along a Tangle Teezer. Treat your hair to a rich hair mask to condition and repair sun-stressed hair, such as Crème AS (hair shaft treatment) by La Biosthetique (£18.25 for 100 ml) www.biosthetique.co.uk

8.

Frizzy hair

Problem: A change in climate often leads to a change in the way hair acts, and it’s not always for the better. By the end of the honeymoon, frizzy hair is not uncommon.

Solution: Use a deep conditioning treatment to keep hair looking smooth and add some to water to spray on your hair for touch-ups.

9.

Burnt scalp

Problem: The scalp is easily forgotten when it comes to sun protection and often people are left with an uncomfortable and dry scalp in the heat.

Solution: Wear your hair up or buy a hat to protect your head.

MAKE-UP

10. Wearing

too much make-up

Problem: Being out in the sun can leave make-up looking lackluster and if you pile it on it just gets worse. Too much powder, in particular, can leave your make-up looking cakey.

Solution: Pack a BB cream with SPF in it, such as Clarins BB Skin Perfecting Cream SPF 25 (£30) www.clarins.co.uk. Also wear waterproof mascara and keep it simple on the beach.

11. The wrong shade of foundation

Problem: The more time you spend in the sun, the more your skin will tan, yet often people forget to switch their foundation. There’s nothing worse than having a tanned body and a pale face on the final day of your honeymoon.

Solution: Pick up a foundation in the shade darker before you leave and mix this in with your current shade once it starts looking too light.

12.

Make-up wearing off too fast

13.

Panda eyes from make-up

Problem: Warmer weather and time spent near water can cause make-up to fade quicker throughout the day, leaving you looking oily and barefaced by the evening.

Solution: Use a primer before applying make-up to make it last longer, such as Estee Lauder Illuminating Perfect Primer (£24.50, 30 ml). www.esteelauder.co.uk

Problem: Even when mascara is ‘supposedly’ waterproof, we still find ourselves with black rings under our eyes on the beach. It’s a nasty surprise and makes looking good a nightmare.

Solution: Try out your waterproof mascara for a full day before you take it to the beach, and make sure you opt for ‘waterproof’ over ‘water resistant’, we recommend Lancome Hypnose Doll Eyes Waterproof Mascara (£22.50). www.lancome.co.uk For an even easier option, get your eyelashes tinted before you go away.

HANDS & FEET

14.

Chipped nails

Problem: There’s nothing more annoying than looking down at your freshly painted nails and finding the colour has chipped away, especially when you’re on holiday and just want to relax.

Solution: Gel nails generally last a lot longer than regular nail polish, so opt for these to keep nails looking good. Or treat yourself to a Shellac Manicure or Pedicure, which will give you beautifully painted nails for the duration of your trip.

15.

Dry, cracked feet

Problem: While sandals may look nice and feel comfortable, they aren’t the best for your feet. If you’ve spent a bit too long in flip-flops, you might find the skin on your feet hard and drier than usual.

Solution: Apply a foot cream or rich moisturizer to your feet before bed. Better still, treat your feet with Clarisonic Pedi (£175), a home foot care system that will transform tired, achy feet, smoothing, buffing, exfoliating, cleansing and hydrating rough skin to spa standard, ready for you to show off in flip flops and strappy sandals. www.currentbody.com.

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Tuscany

o as t C i f l a Am

106 www.BridesAbroad.tv

y Ital With Love Throughout history, Italy has inspired lovers – from Romeo and Juliet to George Clooney and his bride Amal Alamuddin.

Choose Italy for your honeymoon and write your own love story, says Alan Benstock The kaleidoscope that is Italy offers honeymooners a myriad of choices guaranteed to surprise and delight. From top-to-toe it stretches over 600 miles, from the magnificent Alps in the north to sun-soaked Mediterranean beaches and islands in the south.

Its artistic and cultural heritage reaches back to Roman times, with many natural wonders, historic cities and style in abundance.

At its heart though is romance – may it be in the origins of its language; its great architecture or Renaissance art. It is no wonder that so many lovers have found their way there. And whether you choose to stay in one of its famous cities such as Rome or Venice, in a small village deep in the rolling countryside or in a thriving seaside resort, you can be sure of enjoying the honeymoon of a lifetime.

Italy offers so many regions that will delight in their own special way, however, Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast are firm favourites, especially for newlyweds seeking a blissful and relaxing first holiday as man and wife.

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Tuscany

In Tuscany, things just seem to come together naturally. The past and present coexist in a state of harmony offering couples a haven to stay and enjoy the good things in life.

There is so much to discover and explore in Tuscany – from hilltop towns with their rustic Medieval architecture to opulent palaces, all set in stunning rolling countryside with timeless views of vineyards, olive groves and slender cypress trees. And if you are planning on driving through Tuscany, the roads may be winding, but that’s part of the charm as you pass by the fields of poppies and ancient farmhouses and begin to unravel and relax.

Historic cities such as Florence, Pisa and Sienna are all home to some of Italy’s finest treasures. As a beautiful monument to the Renaissance of the 15th century, Florence is a must to see. Head for the 600-year-old Duomo with its magnificent frescoes and octagonal dome. The famous bronze ‘Doors of Paradise’ of the Campanile, or bell tower, and the Baptistery will take your breath away.

Whilst the number one attraction of Pisa is the iconic leaning tower, there are plenty more wonderful sights to see. For art lovers there are many priceless works of art from the Medici, Lorena and Savoia courts to see in Palazzo Reale National Museum.

“To cook like your mother is good; to cook like your grandmother is better” says the Tuscan proverb. Recipes handed down from generation to generation are the highlight of Tuscan cuisine.

Simple cooking and fresh local produce are the key ingredients that make Tuscany a foodie paradise – washed down, of course, with the region’s world famous Chianti wine, the perfect accompaniment to any meal. The important thing is never rush a meal in Tuscany, take your time to savour the colours, flavours and aromas of classic dishes.

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Top 5 things to do Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa – about 17 feet tall, the steep climb is up 294 steps. Advanced booking is essential as access is limited.

Spend a day in Florence – start with coffee on Piazza della Repubblica then visit the Uffizi Gallery and the Piazza del Duomo to see the cathedral, Baptistery and Museo dell’Opera del Duomo.

Have a Crème di Santa Fina from Gelateria di Piazza in San Gimignano. Made by award-winning master gelatomaker Sergio Donoli, using delicious saffron cream.

Explore Chianti by bicycle – guided tours are available, but there are many well sign-posted routes if you want to go at your own pace.

Take a wine-tasting tour to one of the many vineyards and wineries to sample the best wines from the region.

CASTELLO DEL NERO

The 5-star Castello del Nero-Torrigiani towers majestically over its own valley in the heart of the Chianti region of Tuscany. From its terraces you can enjoy stunning views of vineyards and olive groves and the Tuscan hills beyond.

The hotel is 40 minutes from both Florence and Sienna and just over an hour from Pisa, making it an ideal base for honeymooners wanting to explore Tuscany and its beautiful cities.

Formerly the country residence of the Florentine family Del Nero, the hotel has its origins in the 12th century. Beautifully restored to exude the charm and history of this noble estate, Castello Del Nero offers luxury accommodation, original frescoes, vaulted ceiling and grand fireplaces in many of the rooms.

Each of its fifty bedrooms and suites has been individually designed and incorporate state-of-the-art technology and breathtaking views across the valley of the estate to the Appennini Mountains beyond; others overlook the beautiful Italian garden with its statues by local artist Marco Borgianni.

For a gastronomic experience, the Michelin starred La Torre Restaurant serves delicious cuisine based on authentic flavours of the area. Typical Tuscan recipes are on the menu in La Taverna, which is located in the former castle kitchen. On warm summer evenings you enjoy romantic dining on the terrace under the clear night skies.

Action-loving honeymooners can take bike rides or leisurely strolls around the estate. Horse riding and hot air balloon trips can be arranged nearby and the hotel also provides a complimentary shuttle service to Florence and Siena for shopping and sightseeing.

5 Honeymoon Treats Hire the hotel’s original Fiat 500 and drive to a Tuscan hillside village for a morning Espresso.

Arrange for the bath butler to call and draw a luxury candle-lit bath in your room, with aromatic oils and bubbles.

Join in a wine and olive oil tasting – the hotel’s Sommelier will teach you all there is to know about the local wines.

Take a cookery class – learn to make pasta with the hotel’s executive chef, and then eat it for lunch!

Stroll along the 'Promenade of the Marquise' – a path through ancient cypress trees created for the Marquise Teresa Del Nero as a hidden route to the castle’s woodlands.

For blissful relaxation couples can head to the hotel’s ESPA spa for the best in holistic pampering with facial and body treatments, an outdoor vitality hydrotherapy pool, hot and cooling experiences and an ice fountain. The steam cabin boasts a large one-way window with magnificent views over the Tuscan countryside. A Couples Therapy room offers total privacy and pampering.

Weddings In the grounds of the Castello de Nero is a splendid but intimate chapel with an adjoining garden with an abundance of antique Florentine roses and a 400-year-old cedar tree. This utterly romantic location is perfect for weddings.

Further Information Castello del Nero Hotel & Spa Tel 39 055 806470 info@castellodelnero.com www.castellodelnero.com

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Amalfi Coast At the heart of the region, the pretty little town of Amalfi, on the shore of the Gulfo de Salerno, was one of the four great maritime republics of Italy that once dominated the southern coastline – centuries later it is now famous for sun-filled piazzas and winding streets that beg to be explored.

Despite its size (you can easily walk from one end of the town to the other in around 20 minutes) Amalfi has a wealth of attractions.

The centrepiece is the Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea, which dates from the early 10th century and has been built with a blend of historical styles – the exterior is Sicilian Arabic-Norman, and features the beautiful arches of the Cloister of Paradise whilst the interior is Baroque. The rustic whitewashed alleys and stairways throughout the town link pretty squares and courtyards with traditional familyrun cafes and trattoria serving local dishes.

Other charming towns and villages in the region include Atrani, a picturesque spot and Minori, slightly larger and home to artisan potters and lemoncello makers. Inland, high above Amalfi and offering breathtaking views is the town of Ravello, famous for its music festivals – however, to reach it, be prepared for a hairraising drive along the Valle del Dragone, but well worth it!

One of the most romantic stops on the Amalfi coast is the enchanting town of Positano, with its pink and lemon painted houses and near vertical streets. It's a fashionable town with elegant shops and smart restaurants.

The Campania region is home to the city of Naples and great historical sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum. These, together with the popular islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida are all easily accessible from Amalfi.

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The Amalfi Coast's magnificent coastal road, known affectionately as the 'road of 1,000 bends', weaves in and out of spectacular gorges, olive groves and pretty coastal villages offering awesome views of the Mediterranean that will take your breath away.

Top 5 things to do Take a boat trip to the Grotta dello Smeraldo – named after the vivid green hues of the seawater. The Emerald Cave is an enchanting sight.

Cool down with a refreshing Lemoncello, the local lemon drink in Amalfi where lemons are grown in abundance.

See how it is made and sample some of the different variations.

Start writing your thank you notes on paper from the oldest paper mill in Europe, based in Amalfi. This fascinating museum has lovingly preserved original printing presses.

After a visit to the Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea sit on the steps of its sweeping flight of stairs and just watch the world go by.

Hire an open-top convertible and drive along the coast – for real style go for a classic car – think Sophia Loren and 1950’s movies!

HOTEL SANTA CATERINA

Set high in the limestone cliffs of the Southern Sorrentine Penisula, the Hotel Santa Catrina is an elegant seaside residence that commands some of the most stunning views of Amalfi and the Gulf de Solerno.

Since it was built in 1850 the hotel has been owned and run by the Gambardella family. Currently in the hands of Guiseppina and Carmela, the sisters can regularly be seen checking that everything is in order for their guests.

The beautiful Mediterranean-style resort is set in tranquil botanical gardens that are a paradise for honeymooners to take romantic strolls through the delightfully fragrant avenues of lemon groves.

Accommodation is in 67 individually designed rooms and suites, in the main building and in the extensive gardens. Each room or villa has a view of the Amalfi coast from its balcony, terrace or garden and is themed and decorated stylishly with local ceramics and antiques.

The award-winning Santa Caterina restaurant boasts solid marble floors and a stunning display of flowering bougainvillea adorning the walls and ceiling to create an outdoor garden feel. The menu offers a wide range of dishes from the Campania region, using local produce – reflecting the hotel’s policy of supporting small farmers and artisan businesses.

Sun worshippers can take one of two elevators, carved in to the rock face and head down to the hotel’s Beach Club, which is reserved exclusively for guests to relax and swim in the heated seawater pool. Here guests can enjoy light meals throughout the day on the terrace of Al Mare restaurant, with its wood-fired pizza oven. It serves exquisite pasta dishes, pizza and grilled local fish.

An exclusive wellness centre offers indulgent face and body treatments using Mediterranean herbs and citrus fruits to leave you feeling relaxed and energized. There is also a steam bath, sauna and Scottish hydrotherapy. For further relaxation most bedrooms and suites have private Jacuzzis and whirlpools baths.

Honeymoon suites

5 Honeymoon Treats Ride the Panoramic lift from your room to the pool and beach – take a camera to capture the stunning view!

Enjoy pre-dinner cocktails on the terrace – never has a dry martini been mixed so well!

Walk hand in hand through the lemon groves – the scent and vibrant yellow colours are truly uplifting Get up early to see the sun rise over the Gulf of Solerno – accompanied by the sound of the dawn chorus.

Hire a boat from the hotel’s jetty and relax with a chilled glass of Prosecco as you cruise past picturesque towns and the private villas of the rich and famous.

Honeymooners can book one of three special honeymoon suites at the Hotel Santa Caterina, which provide tranquil, private spaces for unwinding and relaxing together. Chalet Romeo e Giulietta is a romantic two-storey cottage amidst the hotel’s lemon groves with a private garden, solarium, heated infinity pool and unrivalled views of Amalfi and the bay; The Follia Amalfitana is spacious with white washed walls – its bedroom has a heartshaped super-king sized bed and there’s also a large sunken Jacuzzi pool. Outside there is a large balcony and private infinitely pool; For couples wanting something a little different with a twist of fun, Il Torrino is a circular tower hidden deep in the hotel’s gardens.

Further information Hotel Santa Catarina Tel: +39.089.871012 www.hotelsantacaterina.it info@ hotelsantacaterina.it www.BridesAbroad.tv 111

Advertising Feature

Hotel Mediterraneo

The Hotel Mediterraneo is majestically situated on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, on the Sorrentine Peninsula, close to the centre of Sorrento. With fabulous sea views and attentive staff, the 4-star boutique hotel is the perfect choice for weddings, honeymoons and romantic vacations

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Advertising Feature

S

pend lazy days enjoying the hotel's facilities – relax in the gardens, by the fresh-water pool surrounded by palm and orange trees, or take the hotel's internal elevator down to its private beach to take a dip in the crystal clear sea, then stroll or take the hotel's shuttle into Sorrento to visit the shops and attractions that this popular Italian resort has to offer.

Breakfast is served in the panoramic Vesuvio restaurant on the top floor of the hotel, followed by delicious lunches, drinks and cocktails at the Aqua Pool Bar. As night falls you can raise a glass of bubbly to toast the sunset from your west-facing room or on the terrace of the White Bar, or in the restaurants, which offer unforgettable views as the sun melts into the Mediterranean.

At night, the Vesuvio restaurant becomes an elegant setting where you can enjoy romantic wining and dining and sample traditional Sorrentine and Neapolitan dishes whilst admiring the twinkling lights of the gulf of Sorrento.

Hotel Mediterraneo also offers its guests Mediterraneo Charter, the exclusive boat charter service for those who want to fully experience the splendid Sorrento Sea and discover some of the most romantic places along the coast for a magical day out. The yacht can be rented privately or you can join one of the hotel's regular excursions.

Weddings in Sorrento

The hotel offers romantic wedding receptions for two to 150 guests, set in a choice of beautiful and carefully prepared venues, including: VISTA Sky Bar (with 360° amazing views of the bay), ideal for aperitifs, after dinner parties or small receptions; Aqua Pool Lounge, is open air and ideal for big parties, buffet dinners or BBQ at night; Vesuvio Roof Restaurant has amazing views of the bay and elegant atmosphere. It is possible also to combine more locations for the perfect wedding party!

The hotel offers delicious menus highlighting the best flavors of Italian Cuisine and a full wedding planner service to help you organise the whole event, from the special day to your honeymoon.

Packages are available including rooms at discounted rate for the couple and their guests.

Honeymoons

Hotel Mediterraneo Sorrento offers the perfect honeymoon choice. It is a place full of colours, scents and passion with charming rooms with private terraces where you can dine seafront at sunset, enjoying the lovely views of the Sorrentine Peninsula. You can take a romantic boat trip, dine on a panoramic terrace or poolside and be surrounded by attentive staff that are delighted to help you celebrate your special holiday together.

Further information Hotel Mediterraneo Sorrento Via Crawford, 85 - 80065 Sant'Agnello di Sorrento Tel. +39 081 878 1352 weddings@mediterraneosorrento.com www.mediterraneosorrento.com www.perfectweddingsorrento.com www.facebook.com/MediterraneoSorrento

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4 Far East Favourites – exotic city honeymoons Don’t settle for a sunbed on a beach – paint the town red instead as you discover the joys of urban life in South South East EastAsia, Asia, says says Bart Lan Conley Huong

Oh so many honeymoons involve powder-white sand, palm trees, turquoise sea and that sunset — you know the one! And they're big business for resort hotels around the world.

But the city need not play second fiddle when it comes to honeymooning.

After all, there's no place like the city for a cornucopia of eating and shopping experiences!

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1 Tokyo

Tokyo is a city which prides itself on constantly reinventing itself, delighting visitors with taller, sleeker and futuristic architecture, including the world’s tallest tower – Tokyo Sky Tree, a twisting spire that draws on ancient building techniques. Look out across the city from your hotel’s rooftop bar and be enthralled by neon light displays stretching all the way to the horizon. Sample sushi at its best in the buzzing cafes and restaurants, shop till you drop, but don’t forget to discover the history of this ever-evolving city in its museums and historic temples, then chill-out in the many green parks in the city centre.

IMPERIAL PALACE HOTEL TOKYO

How cool is the Imperial Palace Tokyo hotel? There’s nary a major awards list that hasn’t paid high homage since the hotel debuted in 2012 after a $1.2 billion development. Its design is understatedly cool (think Zen), and its situation in Tokyo is all but peerless. There’s an Evian spa on property, the first in all Japan. There’s a plethora of culinary options from Japanese and Chinese to French, each of which has been launched by a chef who has already bagged a few stars from Michelin. And beyond the posh rooms, and the balconies, there are the glories of modern Japan at your threshold — from the Marunouchi Naka Dori, one of the city’s premier shopping thoroughfares, to the 3.5 sq km Imperial Palace Gardens.

BOOK IT!

www.imperialhotel.co.jp/e/tokyo/

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2 Hanoi SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE HANOI

It was good enough for alleged newlyweds Charlie Chaplin and Paulette Goddard back in the 1930s, and the grande dame of Vietnam is even more posh, and more atmospheric today. The hotel, Le Spa du Metropole is the essence of Old School urban chic, and the beneficiary of a Top-5 list of the best hotel spas in the world by a major U.S. travel magazine. They didn’t have a spa for their first 108 years, but they got one in 2009, and they’ve made up for lost time. What else? Lounge singers at Le Club in the evening. A chocolate buffet every evening. And if Charlie and Paulette are your thing, there is the Charlie Chaplin Suite.

BOOK IT!

www.sofitel-legend.com/hanoi/en

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Historical charm meets contemporary chic in Hanoi, the thriving capital of Vietnam. The city has aged gracefully, preserving its quaint Old Quarter, with its colonial architecture and ancient monuments, parks, shady boulevards and more than 600 temples and pagodas, which now sit alongside trendy new developments, reminding visitors that this is a vibrant, modern city. Hanoi, with its wide sidewalks, its leafy thoroughfares and smattering of in-town lakes, is an eminently walkable city. And what more do honeymooners want of their inaugural days together than to be out and about, hand in hand?

3 Saigon

Despite losing its pre-eminence as the name of Vietnam’s largest city, now known as Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon endures still as the name of the city’s river, of its principal daily newspaper, the biggest tourist agency in town, and even the first district. Saigon is a high-octane city of commerce, culture and energy that captivates visitors. From its timeless alleys, incense-infused temples and street markets to its designer malls and state-of-the-art skyscrapers, Saigon will excite and delight. Hire a moped and join the commuters as you cruise through Saigon’s bustling streets on its famous mode of transport.

CARAVELLE HOTEL SAIGON

There’s no better place for an up-andcoming couple to experience one of Asia’s most up-and-coming cities than from this perch on Lam Son Square in the cinematic heart of the city. Once known for the cadre of foreign correspondents who frequented its rooftop bar during the war, the hotel was completely revamped in 1998, and complemented by a 28-story tower. That rooftop bar is still the best place to watch Saigon make itself up for the night. The neighboring 1900-built French Opera House anchors the upscale view. One flank of the hotel borders Dong Khoi Street, once the wild, wooly wartime bar district, now host to the likes of shops selling Louis Vuitton and Longines.

BOOK IT!

www.caravellehotel.com

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4 Bangkok SOFITEL BANGKOK SUKHUMVIT BANGKOK

Just because the guys of Hangover Part II chose to celebrate Stu’s last days of bachelorhood in Bangkok doesn’t mean the Thai capital is only for the wild and crazy. Romantics need only look to one of the City of Angels’ newest hotels for evidence – the Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit.

The two-year-old property’s sultry appeal starts in the lobby, whose centerpiece is a gleaming, marble-andchrome interpretation of Paris’ famed Grand Arch, and extends all the way up to the rooftop. That’s where guests will find L’Appart, an elegant Parisianstyled hangout that’s equal parts restaurant, bar and lounge. The venue was designed to feel like an ultrachic penthouse apartment. And it does. It’s not only got an array of comfy nooks and crannies, it’s got a spacious terrace that overlooks bustling Sukhumvit Road, gateway to some of the best shopping in Bangkok.

BOOK IT!

www.sofitel-bangkok-sukhumvit.com

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Bangkok is one of the world's most colourful cities – offering visitors an exciting, action-packed stay in a city of extremes.

One minute you can marvel at glorious temples, cruise through floating markets on a longtail boat, or ride in a tuk tuk in vibrant Chinatown, the next you can shop in the luxury malls or tuck into delicious authentic Thai cuisine in the rooftop restaurant of luxury hotels. For a flavour of traditional Bangkok, be sure to sample local dishes served at humble street stalls and, of course, glimpse its famous nightlife – from cabarets to exotic red-light districts that will never cease to amaze!

Pur Pu ure re

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Advertising Feature

Romantic For a wedding venue with the wow-factor, it’s hard to beat Villa Italia in its stunning setting overlooking Port d’Andratx

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Advertising Feature

W

ith enchanting views of yachts moored in the bay and the swanky marina beyond, the delightful 5-star hotel Villa Italia is one of the most romantic hotels on the Majorcan coast to exchange your wedding vows or have a dream honeymoon – or both!

This rustic boutique hotel and restaurant is set in a 1950s villa perched on the hillside of Port d'Andratx, and has been lovingly restored to offer luxury, privacy and state-of-the-art facilities, coupled with top-quality service and attention to detail.

The hotel is an idyllic haven of seclusion, whilst being just a 5-minute stroll from the centre of this picturesque fishing port and the hub of activity, with harbour-side designer shops, cafes and the marina. From here you can hire day boats to explore the beautiful coastline and neighbouring bays. Hotel Villa Italia is also just 25-minutes from Palma and is perfectly positioned for golf breaks, cycling, water sports and hiking in the Sierra de Tramuntana Mountains.

The pool area offers a tranquil place to soak up the sun and a charming spa to indulge in sublime treatments or simply soak in the bubbles of the indoor hydrotherapy pool and admire the magnificent views.

The 21 elegant rooms and suites are sumptuously furnished with cool, contemporary lines with a classical twist. All enjoy wonderful, sunny views of the bay and the mountains and have all the mod cons you could possibly need, including WIFI.

Wining and dining There can be few restaurants in such intimate, romantic settings as Villa Italia – during the day you can enjoy the fantastic vistas and at night the flickering candlelight creates a magical atmosphere.

The superb restaurant serves Mediterranean and international haute cuisine with creativity and passion with chef Christian Catrina at the helm, washed down with the finest local and international wines. The elevated terrace setting offers both outdoor dining and year-round indoor dining inside an air-conditioned glass terrace. The terrace Cocktail Lounge offers the opportunity to finish the day with a sunset toast accompanied by relaxing live music.

Weddings For a truly magical wedding venue, Villa Italia is the perfect choice.

Exchange your vows and enjoy a delicious reception in the glass restaurant and terraces of the hotel with a highly-personalised service ensured and those breath-taking views to wow your guests. The terraces have a capacity for up to 100 people and the restaurant offers menus tailored to meet the needs of each couple. Wedding couples and their guests who stay in the hotel will receive a 7.5% discount on hotel rates.

FURTHER INFORMATION Hotel Villa Italia Port d’Andratx Tel: +34 971 67 40 11 info@villaitalia.com www.hotelvillaitalia.com

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BRIDES ABROAD

HONEYMOON OFFERS! Brides Abroad is delighted to be able to offer our readers amazing honeymoon discounts at luxury resorts across the world. All prices are based on two people sharing and exclude flights and transfers

Thailand 5* Rocky's Boutique Resort Lamai Beach, Koh Samui, Thailand Treat yourselves to 7 nights of romance and luxury on a B&B basis for two.

Special offer price: £425 pp *Various dates subject to availability and not including flights and transfers.

Finland

Mauritius

Igloo Village, Kakslautannen

Twin destination - Mauritius

Surely the ultimate romantic break at the Arctic Circle.

See the Northern Lights and snuggle up for two nights in a private igloo and one night in the warmth of a log cabin.

Priceless memories in a winter wonderland.

Here's the honeymoon you always dreamed of. 7 nights at the fabulous 5* Westin Turtle Beach Resort & Spa on a half-board basis, followed by 5 nights at the stunning 4* Outrigger Resort on a half-board basis.

Special offer price: £345 pp *Various dates subject to availability and not including flights and transfers.

Special offer price: £795 pp *Various dates subject to availability and not including flights and transfers.

Book it! Call: 0800 211 8255 or email martin@bridesabroad.tv

LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT

LUXURIOUS 5 STARS HOTEL | 6 RESTAURANTS | BEACH CLUB | SPA & MEDICAL WELLNESS | 3 GOLF COURSES