Destination Wedding News

80331: Vera Wang Adding Handbags Perfect for Honeymoons

Vera Wang doesn't have to just be part of your bridal ensemble...her work can head off on your honeymoon as well with a line of contemporary handbags and small leather goods as part of The Vera Wang Lavender Label Collection.

Retail pricing of the collection will range from $300 to $1,000, and distribution will follow that of Lavender Label apparel, sold through top-tier department and specialty stores.

The Vera Wang Lavender Label handbag collection will have a feel and tone similar to the Lavender Label apparel collection: whimsical, fun, youthful and flirty. Since its launch in 2005, the label has succeeded in delivering a line of clothing that focuses on modern, feminine pieces with a retro edge.

The launch date for the new collection is set for Spring 2009.

The new handbag lines joins a long list of other Vera Wang options: fragrance and beauty-related products (Coty Prestige, Inc.), eyewear (Couteur Designs, a division of the Kenmark Group), china, crystal, silver and gifts (Wedgwood), Vera Wang suite (Halekulani Hotel), fine papers (William Arthur), intimate apparel (Charles Komar & Sons) and mattresses (Serta Mattress Company). In addition, Vera Wang on Weddings was published by Harper Collins in 2001. In 2007, the company partnered with Kohl's to launch Simply Vera Wang.

Labels: Fashion and beauty

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 12:07 PM 0 comments

80330: Azamara Cruises and Celebrity Cruises Will Offer Weddings at Sea

Many brides think that captains can wed couples at sea but that's not the case; very few ships have weddings at sea but instead offer in-port weddings. Starting this year, however, both Azamara Cruises and Celebrity Cruises will offer weddings at sea with legal, captain-led wedding ceremonies complementing their existing vow renewal and in-port wedding offerings.

"While many of our guests come onboard seeking a once-in-a-lifetime wedding or vow renewal location, and we've been happy to provide them with in- port weddings led by a local official, their number-one request is for captains to perform the ceremony," said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, Azamara Cruises and Celebrity Cruises Vice President of Hotel Operations. "Now, we're able to fulfill that wish, while sailing the open waters of the world."

Weddings at Sea: Guests being married at sea by Azamara and Celebrity captains will be offered a variety of packages that include anything from private receptions in their ship's specialty restaurant to cake, champagne, and more. Basic captain- performed wedding packages begin at $2,500. Guests should book their wedding in advance of their sailing in order to allow time for the processing of licenses and other legal documents.

Existing Wedding Options: Celebrity has long partnered with The Wedding Experience to offer onboard vow renewals at sea and in-port wedding ceremonies, and with the recent re-registration of seven of Celebrity's eight ships in Malta, where Azamara's two ships also are registered, government regulations have changed to allow for captains to perform legal marriages while the ships sail the seas of the world.

Guests who wish to take their love to new heights may also delight in Celebrity's unique offering on its cruisetours to Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge and The Hotel Alyeska. There, guests can be married or renew their vows amidst the breathtaking hanging glaciers of the Girdwood Valley, or with stunning views of Mt. McKinley as a backdrop. These ceremonies can take place from June to September, as part of a Celebrity Cruises pre- or post-voyage cruisetour.

About Azamara: With the 694 guests on each Azamara Cruises ship, the choice of destinations includes South America and the Panama Canal, Asia, the Caribbean and Europe.

About Celebrity: Celebrity sails in Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, California, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Galapagos Islands, Hawaii, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal and South America.

For More Information:
• visit www.azamaracruises.com/weddings
• visit www.celebritycruises.com/weddings

Labels: Cruise weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 12:04 PM 0 comments

80328: Marquis Los Cabos Offers Elopement Package

Looking for an easy destination wedding package? Here's one we just received from the Marquis Los Cabos Beach, Golf, Spa and Casitas Resort, located in Los Cabos, Mexico.

The Package: The wedding portion of the package includes:

• a bridal bouquet
• services of a minister
• Mexican wedding dress and tuxedo rentals
• services of a talented musician
• a special e-video of the ceremony before riding VIP style to the airport in a Hummer decorated with a "Just Married" sign

Along with the wedding itself, the Elopement Package also includes:

• ocean-view accommodations in a Suite Marquis or Private Pool Casita with balcony
• buffet breakfast at the resort's restaurant, Vista Ballenas
• one dinner with drinks at any of the resort's restaurants or en suite
• a signature Marquis Los Cabos drink to relax any last minute jitters upon arrival
• a daily bath turndown service with candles and rose petal
• unlimited access to the fully equipped fitness center and Jacuzzi
• VIP airport transfers
• taxes and service fees

Price: For four days / three nights, the Elopement Package is $4,440 per couple in a Suite Marquis, which features a plunge pool and private check-in, and $4,920 in a Private Pool Casita, complete with a living room, bedroom, wet bar, Bulgari amenities, imported Frette linens, private pool with views of the ocean, and butler service.

Dates: The Elopement Package is available from June 15 to December 15, 2008.

Wedding Details: Please note there are certain legal requirements that must be fulfilled before marrying in Los Cabos, Mexico, which include copies of both birth certificates, lab work completed in Baja California Sur, copies of both Tourist Immigration Forms (obtained from airline), and a divorce decree, if applicable. It is necessary to be divorced at least one year in advance of marrying in Mexico.

Why It's Dreamy: The 237-suite Marquis Los Cabos Resort is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World and Leading Spas of the World and is a Conde Nast Traveler magazine 2008 Gold List and Travel + Leisure magazine 2008 World's Best resort. Located on the Sea of Cortez, the resort features soothing water features including a 36-foot waterfall cascading from the lobby into the central pool, infinity pools overlooking the ocean with pods for sunset gazing, and a total of 40 pools, including private plunge pools. The resort's Spa Marquis uses luscious cactus oils, agave, sea salt and indigenous seaweed in unique treatments, and is the only Los Cabos member of Leading Spas of the World. Couples can enjoy dining options that range from the romantic 20-seat Canto del Mar, where Chef Thierry Dufour, a two-star Michelin pedigree chef, prepares a daily prix fixe menu to casual dining on seafood, Mexican, European and resort specialties at two other restaurants.

For More Information:
• call 877-238-9399
• visit www.marquisloscabos.com

Photo courtesy Marquis Los Cabos Beach, Golf, Spa and Casitas Resort

Labels: Mexico weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 12:10 PM 0 comments

80328: New Demand for Blue Flowers Reported

If you are planning a wedding with a blue color scheme, you know there are a limited number of blue flowers to select from...but apparently that's not keeping demand down for blue silk flowers. In the first three months of this year, www.SilkBouquets.co.uk reports a 350% increase for orders from soon-to-be-wed couples looking specifically for fresh, vibrant blue blooms.

According to the UK-based company, last year's demand was highest for cream color flowers but this year blue is coming in with a bang. According to Cathy Frith of SilkBouquets.co.uk, "the interest in blue colour schemes has come as a complete surprise to us, In January we sat down and designed a new range of products, one of which was the Blue and Silver Hydrangea Bridal Shower. Amazingly it started to get enquiries straight away! By the end of January we had exhausted the entire stock of component items such as the flowers, leaves and other items that are used to make this range of silk wedding flowers. Fortunately we have been able to secure a significant amount of stock which we hope will last until the end of this year."

Along with bouquets, the company is also seeing a demand for Blue and Silver Wrist Corsages, Blue and Silver Lapel Corsages, matching table decorations, pew ends, wedding car decorations, bridesmaid posies and buttonholes...all in blue!

Labels: Decorations and accessories

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 2:53 PM 0 comments

80327: Puerto Vallarta's Villa Premiere Hotel & Spa Offers Wedding Supplement Packages

Looking for a way to make your wedding easy...yet unforgettable? In Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, the 83-room and suite Villa Premier Hotel & Spa is offering two wedding supplement packages to accompany both civil (legal) and spiritual ceremonies.

A civil or legal ceremony is priced at $600 USD and includes paperwork, documents translation, blood tests and judge and is subject to date and judge availability. Spiritual or non-denominational ceremonies are priced at $300 USD and subject to date and officiant availability.

The Wedding Supplement Packages: The "Unforgettable" and the "Unique" Wedding Supplement Packages are based on double occupancy and priced per couple, per stay. These require a 3-night minimum stay and include taxes and tips. Packages are valid for travel from now to December 21, 2008.

The Unforgettable Wedding Package: This package is priced at $205 USD per couple, per stay and includes:

• Welcome fruit basket
• Upgrade to the next room category based on availability
• Fresh flower bouquet for the bride
• Fresh flower boutonniere for the groom
• One bottle of sparkling wine for wedding toast
• Selection of fine cheese accompanied with one bottle of red wine
• Traditional wedding cake (serves four)
• Surprise en suite spa décor
• 15% discount on all spa treatments
• Choice of ceremony site
• Witness if required
• Personal wedding planner

The Unique Wedding Package: This package is priced at $345 USD per couple, per stay and includes:

• Welcome Fruit Basket
• Upgrade to the next room based on availability
• Fresh flower bouquet for the bride
• Fresh flower boutonniere for the groom
• Decorated table setting for the wedding officiant
• One, romantic, candlelight four course dinner with one bottle of wine
• One bottle of sparkling wine for wedding toast
• Traditional wedding cake (serves four)
• One en suite ‘Good morning my love’ breakfast on honeymoon morning
• Surprise en suite spa décor
• 15% discount off all spa treatments
• Choice of ceremony site
• Witness if required
• Personal wedding planner

Your Stay: Rates include accommodations, chilled towels and Champagne upon check-in, relaxing five-minute welcome anti-stress massage on neck and hands, special in room hotel amenities, complimentary use of gym, yoga lessons, reflexology lessons, meditation workshops and access to sauna and steam room at Villa Premiere Spa.

Why It's Dreamy: Nestled on Bahia de Banderas, Villa Premiere Hotel & Spa is located on a golden sand beach within walking distance of downtown Puerto Vallarta. The hotel was recently awarded the AAA Four Diamond status and boasts a contemporary Mexican ambiance. The 83 guest rooms and suites feature Mexican furniture and art, private terraces, whirlpool tubs and sliding doors overlooking miles of the Pacific. The two of you can relax after the wedding at The Spa at Premiere which has stucco walls, Tepescohuite tree beams and rope ceilings, and hand painted murals of angels by local artists done in subdued colors.

For More Information:
• call 1-877-886-9176 (1-866-379-7316 in Canada)
• emailreservations@premiereonline.com.mx
• visit www.premiereonline.com.mx

Photo courtesy Villa Premier Hotel & Spa

Labels: Mexico weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 2:37 PM 0 comments

80326: Free Weddings with Honeymoon Stay At Elite Island Resorts

We often get email from readers asking about free wedding packages. Here's another for your files involving several Caribbean resorts; it offers the usual $899 wedding package for free with a minimum stay.

Labels: Caribbean Weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 1:39 PM 0 comments

80325: 16th Century Tuscan Hotel Offering Weddings

Tuscany is synonymous with romance and it makes an easy choice for destination brides. We just received word that L’Andana , once the Duke of Tuscany’s summer home and hunting lodge, is offering wedding on site. Celebrated chef Alain Ducasse offers guests of his luxury hotel the chance to marry right on site with the assistance of an on-site wedding planner to help plan the ceremony of your dreams.

Your Ceremony: The two of you can choose to hold their ceremony in a variety of settings on the royal lands of Duke Leopold II, from the hills that back the gardens, to the beautiful 18th century church on the grounds, or with a backdrop of the crystal blue sea in the distance.

L’Andana can provide you with an on-site wedding planner, floral arrangements, hair and make-up, and excursions to the Tuscan countryside for the couple and their guests. In addition, L’Andana can assist in coordinating official documents for the couple and make arrangements for weddings of various denominations.

Your Reception: At the reception, guests enjoy specially-created menus from the Trattoria Toscana’s Chef Christophe Martin. The restaurant’s sommelier is also on hand to select wine pairings from L’Andana’s own harvest of red, white and rosé wines, as well as from the restaurant’s wine collection to complement each course on the menu. Looking for an unforgettable way for you and your guests to remember your wedding day? You can choose to have fireworks light up the night sky following the reception. A photographer will also be on-site to capture it all.

After the Wedding: Throughout their stay, the bride and groom and all their guests can enjoy a number of activities, including relaxing in the gardens or the pools, and learning to cook traditional Tuscan cuisine at L’Andana’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Trattoria Toscana. The wedding party can also take advantage of L’Andana’s luxurious 6,000-square-foot spa, which offers treatments using products by ESPA, as well as a menu of gourmet finger foods and desserts designed to complement each treatment.

Why It's Dreamy: The 16th century villa is set on 1,235 acres, featuring contemporary amenities yet is still traditional in character, with two picturesque pools, a stylish lounge and library and an on-site spa. Each of the 33 suites and guestrooms offers views of the Tuscan countryside and centuries-old olive groves and vineyards from every window.

Your guests explore the Maremma area; the L’Andana’s concierge can arrange anything from a quiet picnic for two in the countryside and wine tastings at one of the region’s vineyards, to a historic tour with an Etruscan guide, a round of golf, a day-trip to a beautiful Mediterranean beach, or shopping and dining in a nearby local town. For a special journey, L’Andana’s own 35-meter Viriella Yacht can whisk guests away to nearby Elba Island.

For more information:
• call +39 0564 944 800
• visit www.andana.it

Photo courtesy L’Andana

Labels: Weddings Abroad

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 1:44 PM 0 comments

80324: Kama Sutra Offering Wedding Gifts

Looking for a unique wedding gift (or want to buy one for yourself?) The Kama Sutra Company is now offering The Sweet Celebration Gift Set.

The Kama Sutra Sweet Celebration Gift Set includes: Pleasure Garden Massage Oil, Sweet Honeysuckle kissable Honey Dust body powder and puff, Vanilla Creme warming Oil of Love, French Vanilla silky Body Souffle and an organza bag containing lightly fragranced silk rose petals to sprinkle all over for a night of passion. It's all tucked into a pink and silver gift box, just one of several bridal gift suggestions the company is now offering.

Now wouldn't that be more fun than a toaster?

For More Information:
• visit http://www.kamasutra.com/bride

Photo: Kama Sutra, Sweet Celebration Gift Set (PRNewsFoto/The Kama Sutra Company)

Labels: Gifts and Registries

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 1:26 PM 0 comments

80323: Going Green...All the Way to Your Honeymoon Lingerie

We've had a lot of questions from brides about selecting green resorts around the world...but you can also make yours a green honeymoon by selecting green lingerie.

Figleaves.com is launching "Greenleaves," a department of eco-friendly underwear and sleepwear for you and for your guy. Your options include lingerie sets, robes, loungewear and even tanks and tees for your groom.

Some options:

• Look for GreenKnickers, created by British duo Sarah Lucy Smith and Rose Cleary-Southwood, with eco-friendly--and sexy--briefs for women made with organic cotton, hemp or specially-designed man-made cellulose fibers and dyes. Prices range from $47 for hemp-silk blend knickers to $20 for organic cotton briefs.

• French intimate apparel brand Chantelle has a new eco-friendly collection featuring bras, boyshorts and thongs, made from a bamboo blend jersey; prices range from $80 for a bra to $42 for a thong.

• Bring a retro feel to your lingerie with Enamore's romantic designs in organic silk and soya jersey --only fabrics with a minimum of 55 percent organic and recycled content, colored using special Azo-free dyes. Prices range from $58 for silk knickers to $110 for an organic cotton camisole.

• And for your groom, check out C-IN2 with briefs, boxer briefs, tanks and jock straps crafted from bamboo fibers; prices range from $20 for a brief to $25 for a square-neck tank.

For More Information:
• visit www.figleaves.com

Labels: Fashion and beauty

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 8:28 PM 0 comments

80322: "The Art of Jewelry" Designer Launches New Line of Bridal Bijoux

Like the final brush strokes on a masterpiece, it's the details that complete the portrait of a bride's wedding day. The satin ribbon that gathers together the bridal bouquet, the proper veil to frame the bride's face, and of course, the right jewels to add extra dazzle to her I do's. Marrying the fire of Swarovski crystals and the refined romance of pearls with silver and gold, "The Art of Jewelry" creator Kellie Sutton has designed a new collection of adornments for a picture perfect walk down the aisle.

Indicative of the artist's style, the earrings created for wedding planner Angelique Sobschak of WE TV's Rich Bride, Poor Bride, which were christened "Angelique" in her honor, showcase the sense of sophistication which runs throughout the collection, whether it's a bracelet dripping with freshwater and coin pearls or a necklace accented with a single Swarovski crystal teardrop, glistening beneath a solitary pearl.

Sold in boutiques across British Columbia, Kellie Sutton's Bridal collection can also be purchased online.

For more information:
• visit www.kelliesutton.com


Angelique earrings
Photo courtesy prweb.com

Labels: Rings and jewelry

posted by Grace Sydney @ 12:35 PM 0 comments

80321: Heirloom Hourglass Now Offers Sand Unity Ceremony Accessories

"To see a World in a Grain of Sand and a Heaven in a Wild Flower, Hold Infinity in the palm of your hand and Eternity in an hour."

Although William Blake penned the lines in the 18th century, the poet's words are timeless and capture the emotions of couples to this day as two simple words transform a fleeting moment into forever-- "I do."

While the steadfast flame of a Unity candle has often been employed to express the joining of two souls, many indoor venues forbid the use of candles, and couples exchanging vows in the great outdoors are discovering that weather conditions can put a damper on their plans to include this touching gesture in their wedding ceremony.

A Sand Unity Ceremony, however, which combines the beauty of nature with a symbol of time immemorial, is a trend-setting alternative way to celebrate an everlasting love. An Heirloom Hourglass wedding package, from New York-based company Heirloom Hourglass, provides two sand holders, a written ceremony for the officiant, and a glass funnel. Grains from the ceremonial site itself or from places which hold a special significance to the bride and groom are poured into the glass vial, the grains gathering together to mark each magic moment of marriage.

Heirloom Hourglass offers 15 different models to choose from, each bearing a nautically-themed name. Bases of wood or ocean stone, which can be accented with pewter heart closures, showcase the familiar-shaped timepieces, which become treasured keepsakes for future generations.

For more information:
• visit www.heirloomhourglass.com

Photo iStockPhoto

Labels: Decorations and accessories

posted by Grace Sydney @ 1:33 PM 0 comments

80320: Florida Hotels Offer Girls and Golf Getaway

If you and your 'maids are looking for active fun for your bachelorette getaway, here's a fun option we've received from the Bahama House and Best Western Aku Tiki Inn in Daytona Beach Shores, Florida. The two hotels have partnered to create a unique girlfriend getaway that combines the best of Daytona Beach golf, spa and beach fun in the "Girls and Golf" Girlfriend Getaway package.

Package: The package includes:

• Two Nights deluxe accommodations in an oceanview room or efficiency
• 30-minute YonKa Aroma Charm Hydralift & Deep Brightening Facial and 30-minute Swedish massage for each person
• One round of golf for two at Golf Club at Cypress Head
• Girls' gift basket filled snacks, make-your-own-cosmo kit, picture frame, magazines, and more

The Course: Trade in your flip-flops for spikes for a few hours for a round of golf at Golf Club at Cypress Head. This course is a public championship course that features widely spaced tee areas, which allow golfers to play from under 4,900 yards to over 6,800 yards. Cypress Head has been nominated by Golf Digest as one of the top 100 municipal golf courses in the United States.

The Spa: After a long day on the greens, the "Girls and Golf" package allows guests to unwind with two spa treatments at the local Spa Above Salon 230. Located a short drive from the Bahama House and Best Western Aku Tiki, the spa offers guests a quaint and rejuvenating ambiance. Featuring Yon-Ka products, which combine a plant's revitalizing essential oils with vitamins and trace elements, the 30-minute Aroma Charm facial is followed by a 30-minute Swedish massage.

More Fun: Friends can enjoy a laid-back, tropical ambiance at both hotels, sunbathing by the pool, strolling the golden sands of the world famous shoreline, or making a salty splash in the Atlantic waters. Ladies looking for a night on the town are just a short drive from Ocean Walk Shoppes, where an array of dining and nightlife activities awaits. For some live music on the weekends, traveling twosomes can try the scene at Red Tails on Beach Street.

Price: The Girls and Golf package starts at $269 per person. Prices change depending on season and are based on double occupancy, including tax. Packages are not available on holiday weekends or during special events. Room reservations, golf tee times, and spa appointments are subject to availability.

Dates: Packages are valid through December 31, 2008

Why It's Fun: With direct access to the Atlantic Ocean, the Bahama House is a casually elegant, Caribbean-style boutique hotel with 87 deluxe guest rooms. Its sister property, the Best Western Aku Tiki Inn offers 132 guest rooms. At both properties, guests are offered complimentary amenities including nightly cocktail reception, fresh-baked cookies, morning newspaper, free high-speed Internet access, and parking. Continental breakfast is offered daily at the Bahama House.

To book the "Girls and Golf" package:
• call Reggie Hunter at 1-877-302-GOLF
• visit www.BWAkuTiki.com/girlsandgolf or www.DaytonaBahamaHouse.com/girlsandgolf

Photos courtesy Bahama House

Labels: Prewedding

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 11:08 AM 0 comments

803181: Bridal (Anti) Boot Camp at Resort in Nuevo Vallarta

We might be seeing a trend here...after a few years of bridal boot camp packages, for the second time this week we've seen a property that's offering a boot camp where all the sweating you'll do is in the steam room! Mexico's all-inclusive Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort is offering a Bridal Boot Camp Series with packages that include luxury ocean-view suite accommodations, extensive spa treatments, private Kombat Relaxation (combination Pilates and Yoga class), and wedding goodies that range from a bridal planner to Swarovski Crystal Swans.

Dates: Grand Velas Resort's Boot Camp, Diamond Boot Camp and Five Diamonds Boot Camp bridal getaways are available from May 1 -November 30, 2008.

Grand Velas Boot Camp Package: With this treatment, you'll all be treated to a private outdoor dinner, a city and shopping tour of downtown Puerto Vallarta and several beauty and relaxation treatments at Grand Velas' Leading Spa of the World. After private registration and welcome beverage, sweat out toxins during a heavenly hydrotherapy circuit, buff up skin with a Tau-Sol body scrub, spruce up uprights during a revitalizing leg massage, and feel like a girly-girl with a pretty mani-pedi. Special wedding goodies, such as a bridal planner, wristlet with photo, mini-jewelry travel case, "Future Mrs." T-shirt, and personalized beach bag are also included.

The Price: The 4-day/3-night Grand Velas Boot Camp package starts at $12,670 USD, plus 15% tax and offers luxurious accommodations in an ocean-view Parlor or Master suite for up to five in the party. For an additional $1,850 USD per person, up to three more guests may be invited. If more than four women attend, two adjoining Parlor or Master Suites will be available.

Diamond Boot Camp Package: This package includes everything in the Grand Velas Boot Camp Package plus the opportunity to indulge in a delicious Chocolate Wrap, expend tension with a vital energy Kipori Facial, double the relaxation results with Four Hands Massage, and shed those few extra pounds with a Slimming Anti-Cellulite Lipo-Wrap. For all the extra primping, Diamond Boot Camp guests also receive a spa bag that includes spa slippers, robe and Calla Lilly Spa travel case.

Price: The 4-day/3-night Grand Velas Diamond Boot Camp package starts at $19,850 USD, plus 15% tax and offers luxurious accommodations in an ocean-view, two-bedroom Governor Suite for up to five in the party. For an additional $2,700 USD per person, up to three more guests may be invited.

Five Diamonds Boot Camp Package: The package really pampers the brides and maids. In addition to private dance lessons, the Five Diamond package lets bridal bootcampees relish in luxury with a Diamond Body Scrub, soak up sophistication in a Diamond Bath Therapy, relive tension with proven ancient techniques in a Neuro-Aroma Mineral Massage, please the senses during the Oxygen Diamond Facial, and tame the tresses with a Relaxing Scalp Massage and Ritual Hair Treatments for all in the party. Along with a personalized Wedding Guest Book, the bride will receive Swarovski Crystal Swans, a silver plated pen and heart pendant, crystal necklace and earring set, freshwater pearl bracelet, crystal clamshell with pearl, and a dazzling circle pendant necklace. To capture the breathtaking moments, the guests will be given Hearts Delight personalized cameras.

Price: The 5-day/4-night Grand Velas Five Diamonds Boot Camp package starts at $30,260 USD, plus 15% tax and offers luxurious accommodations in the ocean-view Presidential Penthouse Suite for up to five in the party. For an additional $3,670 USD per person, up to three more guests may be invited.

The Resort: Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, is located 15 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta on Banderas Bay. The resort includes 267 ocean-view suites, Spa Suites in the resort's new tower and new Imperial Suites. The, Grand Velas Spa features 20 treatment rooms, over 80 spa treatments, a high-performance gym and exercise room, spa boutique, and a beauty salon. Five restaurants, three of which are gourmet, feature a la carte choices for French, Italian or Mexican cuisine. The resort also offers tiered three-temperature infinity pools with iPod minis, tennis court and special entertainment for adults.

For More Information:
• call 1-877-398-2784
• visit www.grandvelas.com

Labels: Prewedding

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 1:08 PM 0 comments

80318: This Year's Wedding Invitation Trends

We all love lists and so we were happy to run across this list of the top wedding invitation trends for 2008 from Wedding Paper Divas:

• Non-traditional shapes. How about square or tea length cards?

• Bright Colors & Unique Color Combinations: Invitations, wedding place cards and programs are getting bright with yellow, turquoise and lime tones. We thought this seemed like a great choice for destination brides opting for a tropical wedding.

• Time-Honored Monograms: Every year the bridal industry wonders if monograms will go out of style, but they remain as popular as ever. Whether on save the date cards, wedding invitations or wedding thank you cards, classic monograms are still au courant.

• Mother Nature’s Finest: We're all trying to go green as much as possible these days so it seems perfect to incorporate a natural feel in the invitation with things such as a leaf or flower motif. We think this would be perfect for a mountain wedding.

• Modern toile: Toile inspiration is making a contemporary comeback with classic and highly intricate scenes designed with unusual colors.

• Something old, something new: Ecru paper and letterpress printing are a new trend for today's bride.

• Get Cultured: More couples are adding a little ethnic flavor to their stationery, whether through cultural motifs, meaningful quotes or relevant color combinations. We think this is a great way to add local flavor to a destination wedding!

• Wedding Websites: Very popular with destination brides, these pages include details about the couple, their courtship, and their wedding. Couples are encouraging their guests to read more about their event or even RSVP online by adding the URL to their wedding website directly onto bridal shower invitations and wedding invites.

Photo courtesy Wedding Paper Divas

Labels: Spread the News

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 11:34 AM 0 comments

80317: Houston's Hotel ZaZa Offers Bridal Boot Camp

Every bride wants to look her best and will do what it takes to get there...so what's eight weeks in a boot camp? This boot camp--the Bridal Boot Camp at Houston's Hotel ZaZa--looks like one we could handle, though: a weekly series of facials, peels, lifestyle consultations, and customized home care all planned to bring out bridal beauty.

The Bridal Boot Camp is designed to promote collagen synthesis and overall skin health,--and have you beaming from the inside out for your special day.

What It Involves: Brides-to-be will:

• Meet with your ZaSpa bridal beauty therapist for a comprehensive lifestyle consultation (an in-depth look at diet, sleep and supplements).

• Receive weekly treatments consisting of a rotation of fitness facials, custom green tea peels and silk peels, following a consultation for customized facial regimens.

• Following the wedding, brides settle into their new lives with a personalized at-home skin care routine.

Other Services: The ZaSpa also offers pampering for the bride-to-be and her attendants; you can enjoy a bridal shower or girls’ spa day with manicures, pedicures and facials. And the two of you can get rid of wedding stress with a relaxing couple’s massage.

For more information:
• call 713-526-1991
• visit www.hotelzaza.com/houston

Labels: Prewedding

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 7:57 AM 0 comments

80316: Susan Southerland Releases Just Marry! Wedding Planning Secrets

Choosing the perfect wedding dress, deciding which vendors to work with, balancing the budget-- devising your dream I do's can be a daunting task. Now noted event planner Susan Southerland, whose words of wedding wisdom has appeared in Bride's, Modern Bride, Bridal Guide and The New York Times, offers her advice to help ease those pre-wedding woes in her new DVD, Susan Southerland's Just Marry! Wedding Planning Secrets.

Fans of Style Network's Whose Wedding is It Anyway? and The Learning Channel's A Wedding Story have already seen the event planner's expertise at work, and on the hour-long DVD Susan Southerland reveals tricks of the trade for cost-conscious couples.

The DVD is sold through Amazon for $29.95, and a sneak peek is offered at Susan Southerland's site, www.justmarry.com.

Susan Southerland's Just Marry! Wedding Planning Secrets Available Now on Amazon.com. (PRNewsFoto/Just Marry! Inc.)

Labels: Books and videos

posted by Grace Sydney @ 4:15 PM 0 comments

803162: Belize's Hidden Valley Inn Offers Jungle Wedding

When you hear "Caribbean wedding" you typically think of a beach ceremony, but destinations like Belize offer jungle experiences as well. We've received word of a package offered by Hidden Valley Inn; this 12-cottage resort is tucked back in a 7,200-acre private nature reserve in Belize's Cayo District.

The resort offers two private waterfall locations where you can say your vows.

The Package: The “Wedding Package” at Hidden Valley Inn includes marriage license, flowers, wedding cake, transportation to the waterfall from the Inn, and a bottle of sparkling wine. The costs to obtain the marriage license and officer are also included.

Price: The wedding package is priced at $850.

For more information:
• call 1-866-443-3364
• visit www.hiddenvalleyinn.com

Labels: Caribbean Weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 4:06 PM 0 comments

803161: Belize Legacy Beach Resort Offering Weddings

Belize is so easy for US travelers to reach but yet the two of you really feel like you've traveled to an exotic destination. We just received word of a wedding package offered by the 32-room Belize Legacy Beach Resort, a property on Ambergris Caye.

The Package: The “Premium Wedding Package” includes a wedding ceremony on the beach with tiki torches, a floral arch or circle of love, bride’s bouquet, groom’s boutonniere, minister’s fees, marriage license documents, wedding certificate and a bottle of champagne. Couples can also customize their wedding experience with extras such as photo/video packages, make-up and hair, floral centerpieces, open bar, and more.

Price: The wedding package is priced at $995.

For more information:
• call 1-866-210-2267
• visit www.belizelegacy.com

Labels: Caribbean Weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 4:01 PM 0 comments

80315: New Wedding Venue at Tulum, Mexico

The ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum are definitely one of the most scenic spots in the Yucatan and now there's another option for are weddings. Rancho Santa Monica Developments, Inc. has signed a letter of intent with Akiin Beach Club, a neighboring beach club, to hold weddings and receptions in Tulum, Mexico adjacent to the boutique Parayso Hotel. The parties agreed to work together to promote beach weddings via the internet and will split certain net revenues from wedding events such as reception and welcome parties.

Akiin Beach Club, with over 20,000 square feet for group use, is located with 300 feet from the Parayso Hotel.

For More Information:
• visit http://www.tulumbeachweddings.com

Labels: Mexico weddings

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 8:43 PM 0 comments

803151: Win a Wedding at the Made of Honor Premier

Made of Honor, the romantic comedy starring Patrick Dempsey and Michelle Monaghan, will debut in theaters on May 2, 2008 but will premier in late April, a day that will also be one lucky couple's wedding day and future anniversary! The Made of Honor "Get Married at the Premiere" contest, presented by Made of Honor and The Knot, will include a wedding all in the presence of the film stars and plenty of red carpet guests.

The Grand Prize: The Grand Prize-winning couple will receive a trip for four to the premiere city, including hotel, airfare, transportation, and per diem. To tie the knot at the world premiere in late April, the winning couple will also receive the bride's wedding dress, provided by Selia Yang; the groom's tuxedo; a bridal bouquet, provided by Fleurop; his-and-hers wedding bands, provided by Damiani; and a $3,000 Bed Bath & Beyond shopping spree in the form of a gift card. In addition, upon request, the winning couple will receive 10 additional passes to the premiere for friends and family members to join them on their special day. Finally, to celebrate their honeymoon, the winning couple will spend a romantic six nights in Europe, visiting Paris and Venice, with hotel and transportation included provided by Fleurop.

Other Prizes: Only one couple will win the Grand Prize, the other finalist couples whose videos were voted on online will each receive $1,000 Bed Bath & Beyond bridal registry in the form of a gift card to help them outfit and decorate their home.

How to Enter: The two of you can enter the contest at http://www.MadeofHonor-movie.com, where you can submit a photo and answer a question about the moment you realized you were meant to be together.

Up to 20 couples will be chosen to move on to the semifinal round, in which the couples will shoot and submit videos of themselves answering the same question. Up to four couples move on to the final round, in which the public will vote on the videos.

Labels: Wedding contests

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 8:27 PM 0 comments

803141: Harlequin, Office Depot Announce 'Say Yes To A Winning Proposal' Contest

If you're thinking of popping the question, tell Harlequin and Office Depot in 50 words or less why your proposal should be featured on Carl Edwards's No. 99 Office Depot Ford Fusion at the 2008 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series All-Star Race on May 17. Not only will your proposal be featured, but you'll win a VIP prize package worth over $10,000! In addition to having their proposal highlighted on the back of Carl Edwards's No. 99 Office Depot Ford Fusion, the contest winner will also receive a diamond ring, customized stationery provided by the Office Depot Design, Print & Ship Depot(TM) and a trip for two to Sedona, Arizona. (Already married? You can win a vow renewal in front of millions of racing fans.)

"I'll definitely be driving to win at the All-Star race and hopefully guarantee that the winning proposal gets a 'yes'!" Edwards said. "The 'Say Yes To A Winning Proposal' contest is a very cool way for Office Depot and Harlequin to partner with NASCAR on a really unique activity, and I think the fans are going to have a lot of fun with it."

How to Enter: Fans wanting to sweep their new love off their feet or recommit to an old love in front of millions of fans can log onto http://www.GetYourHeartRacing.com to enter. Contestants must tell Harlequin and Office Depot why they have a winning proposal in 50 words or less.

This is the third year Harlequin and NASCAR have partnered together, an effort that has included the release of over 20 NASCAR-themed romance novels.

Labels: Wedding contests

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 9:58 PM 0 comments

80314: 1st Class Wedding Invitations

The date has been set, the venue has been booked and now it's time to ask those you love to share in your happiness on your wedding day. Thermography lettering announces impending walks down the aisle on 1st Class Wedding Invitations, which has offered a wide range of traditional invitation icons, including hearts, floral finery, intertwined rings and cherubs since its launch in 2003.

The company has now introduced a selection of contemporary styles featuring themes that celebrate a destination wedding, such as a beach motif, fairytale castle or invitations imbued with Asian accents. Along with classic color schemes like pearl, blush or bright white, 1st Class Wedding Invitation can also print announcements touched with a tint of burgundy, frosty plum, periwinkle, sage or Wedgwood.

Five different paper types-- bright white, ecru, European, soft white or vellum-- give prospective brides and grooms a variety of options, which can be narrowed down with the help of the company's professional invitation consultants. The two of you can also request up to three blank samples for a review.

For more information:
• visit www.1st-class-wedding-invitations.com

Photos courtesy of emediawire.com and 1st Class Wedding Invitations

Labels: Spread the News

posted by Grace Sydney @ 10:30 AM 0 comments

80313: Wedding Dresses for Pregnant Destination Brides Unveiled

If you're pregnant and planning a destination wedding, be sure to have a look at the new collection from A Pea in the Pod(R), Mimi Maternity(R) and Motherhood(R) Maternity.

The new looks include A Pea in the Pod's luxurious custom made, hand beaded gown, Mimi Maternity's romantic burn-out dress with ruffle detailing and the hot fashion and low prices of Motherhood Maternity's tiered cupcake wedding dress.

We thought they all were excellent choices for destination weddings. The cupcake wedding dress (left) is a good option for beach ceremonies while the longer dresses make excellent options for hotel venues.

From A Pea in a Pod/Destination Maternity:


From Mimi Maternity:



For More Information:
• visit A Pea in the Pod - http://www.apeainthepod.com or 1.877.apeapod
• visit Mimi Maternity - http://www.mimimaternity.com or 1877.mimi.mom
• visit Motherhood Maternity - http://www.motherhood.com or 1800.4mom2be

Photos courtesy www.motherhood.com (PRNewsFoto/Destination Maternity) and www.apeainthepod.com (PRNewsFoto/Destination Maternity)

Labels: Wedding dresses

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 4:39 PM 0 comments

Lovetripper Launching New Blog For Vow Renewals

The last few years we've been covering Vow Renewals in the Romantic Travel News blog on Lovetripper.com. Thanks to growing demand for destination wedding information, though, we're now going to cover vow renewals in this all-wedding blog on Lovetripper. If you'd like to see older vow renewal coverage, though, it's still available in the Vow Renewal section of Romantic Travel News.

Labels: Vow Renewals

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 3:39 PM 0 comments

Lovetripper Launching New Blog for Destination Weddings

If you've followed Lovetripper.com the last few years, you know that we covered Destination Weddings in the Romantic Travel News blog. We're finding more and more interest from destination brides, though, so we're now branching out with a whole new blog for destination weddings! Starting mid-March, 2008, destination weddings will be covered in the Destination Wedding Blog; if you'd like to look at older posts covering destination weddings, though, they're all still there filed under Destination Weddings in Romantic Travel News.

Labels: Caribbean Weddings, Mexico weddings, US and Canada Weddings, Weddings Abroad

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 3:10 PM 0 comments

80312: Try Out Your Wedding Hairstyle Online

Every bride to be wonders what the perfect hairstyle would be for her wedding and now Brides.com is making it just a little easier not only to to try new hairstyles but to play with some celebrity styles as well.

On the website, brides can now "try on" five different wedding day hairstyles via the Brides.com Wedding Day Hair Studio. In addition, women can also experiment with the hairstyles of various celebrities including Jennifer Aniston, Jessica Simpson, Jessica Alba, Hillary Duff and Beyonce Knowles.

You'll find Brides.com's Wedding Day Hair Studio at Brides.com/hair.

On the site, you can see how you'd look in a chic, sexy low knot or the sleek side
pony that rule the runways this spring . Other style choices include a classic up-do and one with flower accents, a free and loose hairstyle and the popular "half-up,
half-down" look.

Labels: Fashion and beauty

posted by Lovetripper.com @ 4:17 PM 0 comments