Destination Wedding News

Marquis Los Cabos Hosts Two Turtle Weddings

noreply@blogger.com (Paris & John) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:52:00 +0000

This month, the beachfront Marquis Los Cabos Resort offered two newlywed couples and their wedding guests the opportunity to assist in releasing baby Olive Ridley sea turtles, one of the resort’s ecotourism initiatives. Certified by the state-sponsored PROFEPA agency as a sea turtle watch and rescue site, the resort protects five species of turtle eggs from laying as early as June and hatching as early as October.

“The turtle release was such a unique and wonderful addition to our wedding day. We received so many glowing compliments about the experience from guests of all ages. Not only was it something fun and interactive for everyone to do after the ceremony, but it was a wonderful way to wish us well as newlyweds,“ said Yinh Abdelmessih of New York , one of the brides who assisted in the release. “The turtle release was one of the biggest hits of the wedding and people are still talking about it - weeks after the event!“

Just as the Olive Ridley Sea Turtle, named for the olive-green color of its heart-shaped shell, returns every year to its birth site, Marquis invites those couples wed at the resort to return on their anniversary with a three-night complimentary stay.

In addition to the anniversary certificate, couples choosing Marquis Los Cabos for their destination wedding also receive deluxe accommodations in a casita with private pool, spa treatments, champagne, romantic gifts, a professional wedding coordinator, and more with the Take the Cake Wedding Package.

Rates: Special room rates starting at $295 are available for groups.

Why It's Dreamy: The 237-suite beachfront Marquis Los Cabos Resort is located on the southernmost tip of the Baja California peninsula, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean, and is minutes from the authentic Old World village of San Jose del Cabo as well as the lively town of Cabo San Lucas. The resort features a 15,000-square-foot holistic spa and fitness center and an exclusive gourmet restaurant where a Michelin-pedigreed chef prepares a nightly prix fixe menu. Since its 2003 opening, Marquis Los Cabos has earned awards including “World’s Best” (Travel + Leisure); “Gold List Award” (Conde Nast Traveler); “Best Value” (Conde Nast Traveler); the AAA Four Diamond Award, and the Five Star Diamond Award for its Canto del Mar restaurant. Marquis Los Cabos is a member of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World and the only member of Leading Spas of the World in Los Cabos.

For More Information:

visit www.marquisloscabos.com
call1-877-238-9399

Photos courtesy Marquis Los Cabos Resort

MacCallum House Holds Dream Wedding Contest

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 21:27:00 +0000

Dreaming of a destination "I do"? One happy couple can start their new life together as husband and wife with a wedding at a retreat deemed among American Historic Inn's list of top 10 most romantic inns of 2009-- the MacCallum House Inn & Restaurant in Mendocino, California.

To enter, simply relive the story of your romance. Upload a photo of the two of you together, then tell how you first met, the memory of your proposal, your hobbies and occupations, what voters should know about you and why you deserve to be chosen as the contest winners. The top five entries to receive the most votes will be eligible for a final drawing, which will take place in March, 2010.

The winners will receive a prize package worth $25,000, which includes:

An oceanside ceremony officiated by a non-denominational minister.

Limousine services.

A ceremony designed by Matt Rowland Events.

A honeymoon suite at MacCallum House Inn.

Three anniversary stays at MacCallum House.

A custom-created menu.

A wedding cake created by Sharon Garner of S Squared Art Productions.

Bridal hair and make-up from Mendocino Beauty.

Floral finery by L&R Farms.

"I do" images captured for posterity by J. Perlman R. Lutge Photography.

Music provided by DJ Gerard.

Invitations from Letterpress Invitations, Studio Z Mendocino.

Wedding favors supplied by Estilo Weddings.

For more information:

visit: www.maccallumhouse.com

Photo courtesy Big Stock Photo

Former NFL Star Dan O' Leary Launches Wedding Registry Site

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 21:19:00 +0000

Having fumbled through countless department stores during their search for items to request in their own wedding registry, former NFL star Dan O'Leary and his wife Kate decided to tackle the stress of wedding shopping head on and in the process have scored a touchdown for all couples preparing to tie the knot with the recent launch of a one-stop, no-obligation site, Weddgistry.com.

Offering nearly two million "I do" gift ideas from almost 300 retailers including Macy's, Sears, Dillards, Kohls and Target and luxury goods from Lenox, Designer Linens, Linens n' Things, BBQ Guts, Bobby Berk Home and Chef Giant, to name a few, the former team member of the Buffalo Bills, New York Giants and Pittsburg Steelers is now CEO of a site which gathers department stores in a huddle, eliminating a couple's need to register at each individual store.

Guests searching for gifts will benefit from both easy-to-use search tools and a price comparison system which seeks out products from the registry and locates the best bargain, not to mention the hours saved shopping, wrapping and delivering their wedding present.

A customized registry featuring quick and easy registration, prospective brides and grooms will have their own profile with event details, bios and a photo. There is no limit to the number of products picked for possible purchase by guests, and couples can mull over the merchandise via keywords, categories, and price before using a built-in invitation tool to notify guests about their registry.

For more information:

visit www. Weddgistry.com

OneWed.com's "Off- the- Chart" Wedding Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 19:01:00 +0000

Celebrating the union between social networking and nuptial planning through their new feature WeddingPreParty.com, OneWed.com is currently offering one fortunate pair of fiances the chance to enjoy a wedding that is truly "Off-the-Charts"!

To enter, couples need only create their own Wedding Pre-Party at OneWed's new social networking application, then invite future wedding guests and members of the wedding party to participate. On your personalized pre-wedding site, family and friends can offer wedding tips, send photos or offer a virtual toast to the bride and groom! Each successfully accepted invitation means an additional entry!

The winning couple will receive over $15,000 in "I do" items, including:

An all-inclusive Luxury Included four night/three day honeymoon stay at one of 15 Sandals Resorts in Jamaica, Antigua, St. Lucia or The Bahamas.

Five bridesmaids dresses from The Dessy Group.

A rehearsal dinner dress from The Dessy Group.

Six Savvi Formalwear tuxedos for the groom and his groomsmen.

Two platinum-and-diamond wedding bands from Whiteflash.com.

Pearl earrings and necklace for the bride from PERCHANCE boutique.

Coloriffic shoes from Shoes.com for the bride's walk down the aisle, five pair of Coloriffic shoes for the bridesmaids, plus a $200 gift certificate from Shoes.com.

For bridesmaids, five Majorca teardrop bracelets from RedEnvelope.com.

For the groomsmen, six Secret Message cuff links from RedEnvelope.com.

100 Thank You cards from Hello!Lucky.

Six bouquets from Weddings by FlowerPetal.

40 disposable cameras to capture the day's magic moments, from Exclusively Weddings.

Guest book, autograph picture frame and cake cutter from Oriental Trading.

Two coach class tickets to your honeymoon destination.

The contest runs through January 31, 2010.

For more information:

visit www.onewed.com

"Diana: A Celebration" Exhibition Opens in Philadelphia

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 18:49:00 +0000

On display at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia from October 2 - December 31, 2009, Diana: A Celebration offers an intimate portrait of the Princess of Wales. From cherished childhood toys to her charity work, and ultimately to the messages of condolence and the comforting lyrics of the song performed when the world said goodbye to the Queen of people's hearts, visitors can stroll through nine galleries containing more than 150 mementos of one of the most intriguing lives of modern times.

At the exhibition, romantics can relive the moment when the 20-year-old bride stepped inside St. Paul's Cathedral in a pair of silk slippers which carried the People's Princess down the aisle as the light danced on the diamonds on the Spencer tiara, which sparkles in its display case just as it did on July 29, 1981. Its beauty like a beacon to wedding watchers, the David and Elizabeth Emanuel gown takes center stage in the collection-- its 25 ft. train, 10,000 pearls and mother of pearl sequins and heirloom Carrickmacross lace still retaining its regal glory.

Tourists traveling to Philadelphia for the exhibition should explore the option of the Diana VIP Hotel Package, which includes two un-timed tickets to Diana: A Celebration and hotel amenities for either a one or two-night stay at select hotels.

When: October 2 - December 31, 2009

Where: National Constitution Center at 5th and 6th and Arch Streets in Philadelphia

For more information on Diana: A Celebration:

visit www.consitutioncenter.org

For more information on the Diana VIP Hotel Package:

visit www.gophila.com

Photos courtesy Picapp

What's New: "Trash The Dress" Book

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 19:48:00 +0000

No doubt reminiscing about the first time they donned their wedding day wear, more than 99 former brides once again took the plunge on 9/9/09-- only this time in the North Sea as cameras clicked during a once in a lifetime Trash The Dress event. Husband-and-wife photographers Melanie Rijkers and Hans van Nunen of Artstudio 23 in Breda captured the moment when 99 women waded into the waters off of Scheveningen Beach, The Hague, making their transformation into sirens of the sea.

For any bride who has ever posed for posterity in a Trash the Dress photo shoot, and for anyone thinking of following in the footsteps of those who have enjoyed a second treasured memory form their "I do" dress, Melanie Rijkers and Hans van Nunen have published Trash the Dress-- 80 pages of full color portraits of the 9/9/09 event. The book is available in both softcover and hardcover editions.

For more information:

visit Trash The Dress book at blurb.com

Photo Credit: MeRy.com

Book Your Wedding--And Get a Free Honeymoon

noreply@blogger.com (Paris & John) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 01:48:00 +0000

You'll always find plenty of good reasons to marry in Aruba or Curaçao thanks to the beauty of these islands and their incredible year-around weather--but now the two of you will find five more great reasons: a free five-night honeymoon.

If you book your wedding at the Renaissance Resorts in Aruba or Curaçao, you'll receive a free five-night honeymoon at either resort! This "Double Your Paradise" promotion can be used in conjunction with any existing package or promotion that is offered at the time of the booking--all adding up to a significant savings.

With this package, you've got the option to spend your wedding and honeymoon at the same resort or wed at one and then hop over and honeymoon at the other. (That's a great option for sharing your wedding joy with guests...but then heading out for a romantic honeymoon!)

Aruba: At the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino, the bride and groom can treat their guests to a private island wedding ceremony and reception on the resort's 40-acre Renaissance Island.

Curaçao: Couples can opt to wed at the Renaissance Curaçao Resort & Casino, the first new full-service, branded hotel to open in the Dutch Caribbean in 15 years. The resort's Infinity Beach Club, located on a 19th century fort, boasts a private elevated beach with views of the Caribbean Sea.

"Our resorts in Aruba and Curaçao offer two distinct experiences, much like the two islands," said Janien Huistra, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Renaissance Aruba and Renaissance Curaçao Resort & Casino. "We wanted to find a way to allow guests to celebrate their union at one resort and then enjoy a romantic honeymoon - and a completely different experience - at the other. However, guests have the option to have both at the same property; couples are free to choose the combination they want."

The Details: Guests must book 75 consecutive revenue-generating nights by December 31, 2009 and travel for the ceremony by December 31, 2010. Blackout dates apply to the free honeymoon, which may be taken any time during the travel window - up to one year after the wedding.

How To Book:

email weddings@arubarenaissance.com

For More Information:

visit www.renaissancearuba.com and www.renaissancecuracao.com

Photo courtesy Renaissance Aruba

99 Brides Invited For Trash The Dress Photo Shoot

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 16:16:00 +0000

Brides who have already taken the plunge are invited to once again slip into their wedding wear and wade into the water for a "Trash The Dress" photo shoot that will be a treasured memory in the years to come.

Husband and wife photographers Hans van Nunen and Melanie Rijkers of Artstudio23 in Breda, The Netherlands are looking for 99 brides in both vintage vision and today's top styles to pose for posterity on 9/9/09 at Scheveningen Beach, The Hague in The Netherlands. Brides are to gather at the beach club Lekker (Strandweg 32, Scheneningen, The Netherlands) at 1 p.m for a 2 o'clock photo shoot in the waters of the North Sea. Smaller group photos will also be taken during the photo session.

For more information:

contact info @mery.nl

visit www.trashthedress.nl

(Dutch site)

Photos courtesy © MeRy.com

"Four Weddings" On Living TV Looking For Couples Saying "I Do"

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 20:44:00 +0000

If your dream "I do" involves tying the knot of TV, Four Weddings may grant your wish! Britain's Living TV is currently taking applications from couples who want to take part in season two of the ITV Studios' good-natured war of the weddings, in which rival brides rate each other's cake, dress and exchange of vows as they vie for a luxury honeymoon.

From budget-conscious brides and grooms to, same sex and opposite sex ceremonies, traditional to over-the-top theme weddings-- all I do's are eligible! Living TV is looking for couples who are marrying any time from the present through March 2010.

For more information and to fill out an application:

visit www.livingtv.co.uk/fourweddings

Photo courtesy Big Stock Photos

Sandals Unveils 9/09/09 Wedding Package

noreply@blogger.com (Paris & John) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 01:57:00 +0000

Considering a wedding on September 9, 2009? The number nine, which represents fulfillment, will have many couples tying the knot on the exclusive date. We've just received word of a special destination wedding package for this memorable date as well as a honeymoon package. Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts are offering specially-themed wedding and honeymoon packages – the 9/09/09 Forever Wedding and Nine Steps of Love, respectively – to help commemorate the once-in-a-lifetime date.

The 9/09/09 Forever Wedding Package: Those who are seeking a destination wedding in the Caribbean can book the 9/09/09 Forever Wedding package by September 1, 2009 featuring:

A Preston Bailey Signature Caribbean Sunset WeddingMoons® ceremony
A reception featuring a nine-course gourmet dinner, chilled sparkling wine in keepsake Beverly Clark Toasting Flutes, a two-tiered wedding cake by Sylvia Weinstock and a private music performance
A personal wedding consultant
Romantic, floral petal turndown service and breakfast in bed
Select Red Lane® Spa treatments for the bride and groom
Sandals Resorts’ wedding photography package and more!

Price: $4,999

Nine Steps of Love Honeymoon: Those hoping for a sublime Caribbean honeymoon following their September nuptials can book the Nine Steps of Love add-on package which features:

Indulgent breakfast in bed
Serene one-hour private morning sail
Delicious gourmet picnic basket lunch
Romantic couples massage at the exclusive Red Lane® Spa
Photo session with one of Sandals Resorts’ professional photographers, plus a keepsake memory scrapbook
Sparkling wine and petit fours delivered to the honeymooners’ room or suite
Candlelight dinner on the beach with a private waiter and personalized menus
Romantic turndown service
“Sealed with a Kiss” note card and chocolates

Price: $999 per couple

Resorts: Both packages are available at all twelve Sandals Resorts in Jamaica, St. Lucia, Antigua and The Bahamas and at all four Beaches Resorts in Turks & Caicos and Jamaica.

For more information:

call the Weddings Department at 1-800-SANDALS ext. 4006
visit www.sandals.com

Photo courtesy Sandals Resorts

Value Wedding Package Available at The Ritz-Carlton Hotels, Caribbean & Mexico

noreply@blogger.com (Paris & John) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 20:23:00 +0000

At The Ritz-Carlton Hotels, Caribbean & Mexico, couples can rest assured that every detail of their destination wedding will be executed flawlessly, including the experiences of their friends and family. With the Reconnect® package wedding guests will enjoy a $100 daily resort credit that can be used to play golf on award-winning courses, relax at island-inspired Spas, or indulge at celebrated restaurants. Reconnect ensures stress-free planning for the wedding couple, offering a built-in itinerary of activities for guests to choose from based on their individual preferences.

A brand known for its impeccable service, these hotels also offer dedicated wedding concierges to work with guests prior to arrival to make reservations and take care of any special requests--whether that means planning a sailing excursion through the USVI for the wedding party at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas or a five-course rehearsal dinner at Blue by Eric Ripert at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman.

The Package: The Reconnect package at The Ritz-Carlton hotels of the Caribbean & Mexico includes:

Nightly accommodations
Daily breakfast for two
A $100 daily resort credit- for use at restaurants, the Spa and for recreation activities such as:

The Culinary Center at The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun- where guests can explore cooking, wine, and Mexican tequilas
The award-winning White Witch Golf Course at The Ritz-Carlton Golf & Spa Resort, Rose Hall, Jamaica
Silver Rain, a La Prairie Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
BLT Steak at The Ritz-Carlton, San Juan Hotel, Spa & Casino
Sailing on the Lady Lynsey at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas

Complimentary Wedding Ceremony & Anniversary Stay: In addition, when booking a wedding on the Reconnect® package, for a minimum of three nights and twenty-five rooms or more through December 20, 2009, the wedding couple will receive a complimentary wedding ceremony and three-night stay for their first anniversary, redeemable at any of the five Caribbean & Mexico hotels.

Whether couples choose to celebrate their first year of marriage by returning to the hotel where they wed, or by exploring a new tropical escape, they are sure to enjoy rich culture, pure relaxation, and the finest in personalized service.

Rates: Reconnect Rates for Spring/Summer 2009*:

The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun Starting at $369
The Ritz-Carlton Golf & Spa Resort, Rose Hall, Jamaica Starting at $269
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman Starting at $399
The Ritz-Carlton, San Juan Hotel, Spa & Casino Starting at $339
The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas Starting at $379

* Spring/Summer rates valid May 1 through October 31, 2009. Rates are valid per room, per night, based on double occupancy, exclusive of taxes, gratuities, resort fees, and other charges; do not apply to groups; and cannot be combined with any other offer. Rates are based on availability. Advanced reservations required.

For More Information:

visit www.ritzcarlton.com

Photos courtesy The Ritz-Carlton Hotels, Caribbean & Mexico

B&Bs Offer All-Inclusive Wedding Packages

noreply@blogger.com (Paris & John) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 16:43:00 +0000

Even with an eye on the bridal budget, you can still create the wedding of your dreams. We just heard from bnbfinder.com, an extensive site featuring bed and breakfast properties, about just a few of their many listings that offer special all-inclusive wedding packages.

Whether it’s a romantic, country style wedding or a low-maintenance wedding at a beach, brides can have it all and more. Another bonus? B&Bs can offer brides unique locations and options that many standard venues can't as well as plenty of on site assistance from the innkeepers themselves.

Inn at Riverbend, Virginia

Intimate weddings make a grand statement at the Inn at Riverbend (photo, right) in Pearisburg, Virginia where couples can choose the "Just the Few of Us" package.

Couples submit a small guest list of invitees and leave the rest up to innkeeper/ event coordinator Linda Hayes, who takes care of all the major and minor details for the big day including:

printed invitations and response cards
floral and bouquet arrangements
selection of a minister or officiate
professional photographers
the ultimate wedding cake
a gourmet four course dinner
a full breakfast
complimentary gift baskets for the wedding party and guests
celebratory sparkling cider

Linda also accepts special requests and can easily arrange a river tubing expedition for the entire wedding party.

For couples that won't be accompanied by wedding guests, the Inn also offers a special elopement package called "Just the Two of Us," a similar package that makes saying "I do" as easy as checking in and out.

Stone Crest Cellar Bed & Breakfast, Oregon

Engaged couples feeling lost and clueless can meet with the consummate pro, Judy Joubert at Stone Crest Cellar Bed & Breakfast in South Beach, Oregon. This B&B innkeeper/wedding planner is the go-to resource having supervised over 79 weddings in 2008. Judy offers a free wedding expo every year where couples can participate in food and wedding cake tasting sessions, select linen, table and floral designs, meet musicians, officiants and photographers and even rent tuxedos.

The ocean front property bed & breakfast offers an all-inclusive custom wedding and elopement package that can include guest lodging, bridal bouquet, boutonniere, wedding cake, champagne and photos.

The Rosewood Country Inn, New Hampshire

Lush romance can be found at The Rosewood Country Inn in Bradford, New Hampshire where a charming country setting along with an attractive and affordable wedding, civil union or honeymoon packages draw in couples who are on a tight budget to a timeless, graceful and natural environment. The picturesque landscape sets a romantic mood as couples pronounce their vows in a Victorian gazebo to the sounds of gentle flute and harp.

The most budget-friendly package is the "Country Wedding Package," which includes a Justice of the Peace, French champagne and keepsake flutes, hors d'oeuvres and a wedding cake. Lesley Marquis, innkeeper and coordinator has a list of resources on hand for couples that need to find anything and everything from caterers, florists, limousine services, hair salons, wedding cakes, etc.

For More Information:

To find a wedding package tailored to you, visit www.bnbfinder.com and select the Wedding & Honeymoon Bed & Breakfast Specials under specials

Photos courtesy bnbfinder.com

Save $4500 on Wedding at Marquis Los Cabos Resort

noreply@blogger.com (Paris & John) — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 19:33:00 +0000

Lovers are all looking for ways to save money these days --and that includes saving on the destination wedding. We just received a package from the Marquis Los Cabos, the beachfront Baja California Sur resort, that now offers a "Take the Cake" package.

The Package: When you book 10 rooms minimum for three nights or 15 rooms for two nights, the following are complimentary for the bride and groom ($4,500 in savings):

Couples are treated to an ocean-view casita with private pool on their wedding night
two 50-minute Aromatic Massages
a chilled bottle of champagne
a romantic gift basket
daily in-suite breakfast discreetly delivered via a private alcove
a one-year anniversary certificate for a complimentary three-night stay
Tuxedo and wedding dress pressing
bridal bouquet and groom's boutonniere
mani-pedi for the bride
signature welcome drink,
unlimited access to the Fitness Center and Jacuzzis

In addition, a professional wedding coordinator will arrange everything from the wedding location to the photography and minister.

Room Rates: Special room rates starting at $295 are available for groups.

Why It's Dreamy: The 237-suite beachfront Marquis Los Cabos Resort is located on the southernmost tip of the Baja California peninsula, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean, and is minutes from the authentic Old World village of San Jose del Cabo as well as the lively town of Cabo San Lucas. The resort includes a 15,000 square foot holistic spa and fitness center and an exclusive gourmet restaurant where a Michelin-pedigreed chef prepares a nightly prix fixe menu.

For More Information:

visit www.marquisloscabos.com
call 1.877.238.9399

Barbados' Elegant Hotels Group Offers Free Weddings

noreply@blogger.com (Paris & John) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 02:12:00 +0000

Elegant Hotels Group gives brides and grooms a gift that they can really use – a free destination wedding in 2010! Couples can qualify for the new Free Wedding Packages at the five distinctive Caribbean beachfront hotels and resorts dotted along the west and south coasts of Barbados including Turtle Beach Resort (photo, right), Crystal Cove Hotel, Colony Club Hotel, Tamarind Cove Hotel and The House.

The Free Wedding Package: The Free Wedding Packages at Elegant Hotels Group includes:

• Wedding coordinator
• Marriage license and registration
• Services of magistrate/ priest/ minister
• Local transport to/from registration office
• Bride’s bouquet & groom’s boutonniere
• Best Man, Maid of Honor and/ or witnesses if required
• Bottle of Champagne for the wedding ceremony
• Single tier wedding cake
• All taxes and gratuities

Extra Incentive: Enjoy a three-night stay to celebrate First Anniversary one-year from date of marriage ceremony with Elegant Hotels Group.

For More Information:

visit http://www.eleganthotels.com

Photo courtesy Elegant Hotels Group

Free Weddings Offered by Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort & Casino

noreply@blogger.com (Paris & John) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 21:15:00 +0000

Here's a great deal if you're planning a Caribbean wedding that will include some guests: Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort & Casino in St. Maarten is offering a free wedding with all the works to couples booking 10 rooms or more (room-only and all-inclusive) for a minimum of seven nights.

The Wedding Package: The package includes:

* Wedding coordinator
* Marriage license
* Wedding cake
* Corsage for the bride and boutonniere for the groom
* Room upgrade for the wedding couple

Why It's Dreamy: Tucked away in Great Bay Harbor on a one-mile stretch of white sand beach, the resort is just steps from the vibrant capital of Philipsburg, named #1 Latin American/Caribbean Destination by TripAdvisor.com’s 2008 Traveler’s Choice Awards. Couples can select from several exquisite outdoor wedding sites, each affording panoramic views of Great Bay Harbor and the Caribbean Sea.

Room Rates: Room rates start at $205 per night for stays through December 19, 2009 and $275 per night January 3 – April 3, 2010. Rates are based on double occupancy, are room only and are subject to 21% tax and surcharge. All-inclusive rates are also available.

For More Information:

email Sonesta Great Bay Wedding Sales at weddings@greatbaybeachresort.com
call 602-904-5584
visit www.sonesta.com/greatbay/

Designer Gilles Montezin Premieres Shape-Slimming Wedding Dress Collection

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 15:21:00 +0000

Wedding attire trends may come and go, but a slimming silhouette will always be in style. For the bride striving to whittle her waistline for her walk down the aisle, designer Gilles Montezin has created "Le Cinch," a built in bodice and boning construction for his recently launched collection of figure-flattering wedding frocks.

Originally concocting dramatic designs as a costumier for The Opera Bastille in Paris, Montezin's wearable works of art has since showcased the sleek physiques of models in Women's Wear Daily and ELLE Sweden as well as actress Sarah Jessica Parker's style maven Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and The City The Movie. Continuing his flair for showstopping fashion, the designer's current collection of pret-a-porter wedding gowns sculpt the bride's shape into hourglass proportions with the assistance of "Le Cinch," a contemporary corset which reduces a woman's waistline between two to four inches.

Gilles Montezin wedding dresses range from $4,000 - $7,000 retail, and are available up to size 18W.

For more information:

visit www.GillesMontezin.com

The "Juliet" wedding dress:

The "Puccini" wedding dress:

The "Aria" wedding dress (also seen in the photo in the upper right hand corner of the page):

Photos courtesy Gilles Martezin

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts Announces New Gift Registry

noreply@blogger.com (Paris & John) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:18:00 +0000

Let's be honest: many couples already have all the traditional wedding registry items. Wouldn't it be nice to register for travel--rather than towels and toasters?

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts is making it easy for couples to register for travel thanks to the new Hyatt Gift Registry. The new online service offers Hyatt Gift Cards and Hyatt Check Certificates™ redeemable for amenities, services, and overnight stays at Hyatt hotels and resorts worldwide.

How It Works: Brides and grooms can invite their family and friends to help celebrate their marriage with the gift of experiential travel, for their wedding, honeymoon, or first anniversary. The registry is fully customizable and can be used to plan anything from a quick getaway to an extended vacation filled with spa treatments, scuba diving, or tennis and golf lessons.

Once couples register, purchases made by their friends and family will accumulate and the couple will receive their Hyatt Gift Card or Hyatt Check Certificate for the full value of the purchases made.

Features: We noticed several great features about the Hyatt Gift Card and Hyatt Check Certificates:

they never expire
do not carry blackout dates
can be used before, during, or well after the wedding
if you change you plans, you have the flexibility to use your Hyatt Gift Card or Hyatt Check Certificate towards any experience of your choosing – even if it’s not what they originally registered for.

Hyatt Check Certificates are redeemable at Hyatt hotels and resorts worldwide, and Hyatt Gift Cards can be redeemed at properties throughout the U.S., Canada, and the Caribbean.

Using the Registry: For both gift givers and recipients, using the new Hyatt Gift Registry is as simple as saying “I do.”

Engaged couples log on to www.hyattregistry.com to create an account, where they can create and edit a wedding web page, notify guests, and review their registry.
The site’s “Review Gift” page reveals all gifts purchased, as well as when and by whom.
Couples can be notified by email of each purchase.

Bonus Offer: Brides and grooms who book a wedding at a participating Hyatt property by June 30, 2010 can save with Hyatt’s new wedding and honeymoon offer. For weddings booked at participating Hyatt properties in the U.S.; Canada; Cancun, Mexico; or Aruba now through June 2010, couples will receive complimentary nights towards their honeymoon.

For more information on the Hyatt Gift Registry:

call (877) 798-1472
visit www.hyattregistry.com

To book the wedding and honeymoon offer:

call the Wedding Specialist at the desired Hyatt wedding location and reference offer code WEDNIGHTS
for more information on Hyatt weddings, visit www.hyattweddings.com
Additional days for the honeymoon and other options can be added through the Hyatt Wedding Specialist.

Photo courtesy Hyatt Hotels & Resorts

Couple Celebrates World's First Weightless Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (Paris & John) — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 02:22:00 +0000

Has he swept you off your feet? Are you head over heels in love? This weekend, one bride was literally head over heels for her groom thanks to the world's first weightless wedding.

Zero Gravity Corporation (ZERO-G®), the first and only FAA-approved provider of commercial weightless flights, played host at the wedding held Saturday, June 20. The lucky couple, New York-based Noah Fulmor and Erin Finnegan, said their “I Dos” while flipping and floating mid-air over Florida as they made history as the first bride and groom to be married in zero gravity!

The wedding officiant was Richard Garriott, the sixth private explorer in history to go to space and the first second-generation U.S. astronaut. “I am honored to be taking part in Erin and Noah’s wedding. I know firsthand the added thrill microgravity will play in their already joyous event,” said Garriott. “The excitement from these ‘first ever microgravity nuptials’ will not soon fade in the minds of all the members of the wedding party.”

The event took place in G-FORCE ONE, ZERO-G’s specially modified Boeing 727-200 aircraft which departed from the Titusville Airport near Orlando, Florida.

During the weightless ceremony, Fulmor and Finnegan along with their entire wedding party, flew and flipped as Garriott united the two as man and wife. Over the span of nearly eight minutes, the vows and rings were exchanged in a microgravity environment.

Fulmor and Finnegan have been together since 2002, but even before they met, they shared a dream of space travel. As children, both wanted to be astronauts: Erin attended space camp in Michigan, while Noah volunteered at his local planetarium. “When we started talking about marriage, Noah joked that we should have our wedding ‘in space,’” Erin said. “Although most girls would take this to mean Noah didn't want to get married, I knew he was sincere, and that this was a serious request.”

When experiencing zero gravity, Fulmor, Finnegan and their guests enjoyed 10-times more hang-time than the world’s best basketball player. It’s not simulated; ZERO-G replicates the same levels of weightlessness enjoyed on Mars (1/3-gravity), the moon (1/6-gravity), and zero gravity.

The couple plan to re-broadcast the ceremony on their Web site. And there's no doubt that they'll have wedding photos unlike anyone else's!

ZERO-G will be traveling around the country, hosting its exclusive weightless flight experience in the following cities:
· July 11 – San Jose, CA
· July 18 – Las Vegas, NV
· September 19 – Las Vegas, NV
· October 3 – Washington D.C.

Photo courtesy ZERO-G

Couples Tower Isle Offers Private Island Wedding Package

noreply@blogger.com (Paris & John) — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 21:49:00 +0000

Just last month we had the chance to visit Couples Tower Isle in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. The property (formerly known as Couples Ocho Rios) has just undergone a major renovation. We're happy to say we found that the resort is better than ever with an all-new South Beach-meets-the-Rat-Pack kind of vibe that recalls the property's early history as the first all-inclusive resort.

So...when we received word of a private island wedding package the resort is offering, we had to check it out. Couples has announced a new package and Tower Isle, which lies just a short boat ride off the resort's beach, is available for private sunset weddings.

The wedding is followed by a reception featuring the newlyweds and 40 of their friends and loved ones--all set up by resort's expert wedding planner, from the personalized champagne flutes, to authentic Jamaican Mento music, to the tropical décor. (A few years ago, we had a vow renewal at this very property...check out our photos!)

Chicago resident Adria Curry, who is planning her October wedding at Couples Tower Isle, says the private island wedding is a bride's dream come true:

"The Tower Isle Wedding Package was the most original ceremony I could find. I have always loved the idea of getting married somewhere really beautiful and exclusive, having a great time and making a vacation out of my wedding. And, it really amazes me that the whole thing is already planned when the ceremony is still six months out."

Price: Presently the Tower Isle wedding package is priced at $4500. (Don't forget that Couples Resorts also offers free wedding packages for guests!)

For more information:

visit Couples Resorts

Photo courtesy Couples Resorts

2009 Celebrity Destination Wedding Held at Antigua Retreat

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 20:04:00 +0000

Walking down the aisle with celebrity style-- the dream of many marriage-minded lovebirds-- became a romantic reality recently for the winners of this year's Destination Wedding Sweepstakes. The event has been held annually for the past four years to celebrate the month of love and promote travel to the Caribbean islands of Antigua and Barbuda. This year's ceremony took place at the Inn at English Harbor in Antigua.

Indashio, the season one winner of VH's reality series Glam God known for polishing the paparazzi-ready appearances of Kim Kardashian, Tyra Banks, Kathie Lee Gifford and Lil' Kim, brought red carpet panache to the bridal party of Atlanta, Georgia couple Adrienne Scales and Myreon Smith as their "celebrity guest of honor." The couple also had the opportunity to see the designer's current creations on the catwalk during a fashion show featuring Indashio's 2009 collection.

Just as the blush pink sands of Barbuda were united with the white sands of Antigua for the sunset ceremony, so the lives of the two lovebirds were joined together as the lady of the hour-- who had donned a dress from Demetrios' Brides-- received a wedding band furnished by Colombian Emeralds from the man she loves. The CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority served as best man and signatory on the couple's June 6, 2009 marriage certificate.

Photo courtesy Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority/ Photo Credit: Ted Martin

St. Lucia's Windjammer Landing Offers Complimentary Weddings

noreply@blogger.com (Paris & John) — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 19:55:00 +0000

There are plenty of good reasons to stretch out that honeymoon as long as you can but this just might be the best one yet: a free wedding.

St. Lucia's Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort, a Green Globe certified property, is offering a complimentary wedding package worth $899 when couples book an all-inclusive stay in a one-bedroom Villa for 10 nights or more.

The Wedding: Personalized Caribbean destination weddings can be performed on the powdery beach, in a cozy chapel, on a hilltop terrace, under a flower-bedecked gazebo, or on a romantic sunset cruise. Customized entertainment and reception menus can be arranged to suit each couple’s tastes.

Windjammer Landing features a convenient personal, password protected website for engaged couples to post their photos, destination wedding plans, and invite guests to book their own travel plans (hotel and air) at the click of a mouse.

Price: Rates begin at $310 a night.

Dates: Pricing is effective through December 20, 2009.

Why It's Dreamy: Patterned after the picturesque hillside villages of the Mediterranean, the one- to four-bedroom villas--many with private plunge pools and multiple terraces--are spread among 60 flowering acres. Estate Villas come complete with full sized infinity pools and private chefs. The resort features the Serenity Spa, where the bridal party can enjoy a pre-wedding pampering experience or a bride can have a special wedding hairstyle fashioned. Wedding guests can enjoy a multitude of tropical excursions and beachfront activities, as well as the Jaquot Fun Club for kids, important for couples planning larger wedding events with guests of all ages.

For More Information:

call (800) 958-7376
visit www.windjammer-landing.com

Online Jeweler Creates Collection of Retro Engagement Rings

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Fri, 29 May 2009 16:25:00 +0000

Marrying the dreams of tomorrow with the designs of yesteryear, Apples of Gold Jewelry have created vintage-style visions for couples planning to exchange vows.

Eschewing the rhodium plating used on many of today's rings in order to conjure the appearance of Art Deco or Victoria era elegance, bands of gold or platinum-- etched with the intricate patterns from the past-- are crowned with diamonds or other precious gemstones.

The blush of a bride is captured in the facets of an oval rose morganite stone, which sets upon the wearer's choice of white gold, yellow gold, 18 K gold or platinum.

For the retro romantic looking for Roaring '20's style, the architectural lines of the Roman Art Deco Sapphire and Diamond engagement ring features a 1.13 carat round sapphire embraced by two 0.10 carat white diamonds.

Appealing to the traditionalist, the princess cut Floret diamond engagement ring showcases a 1/2 carat center stone hugged by two 1/4 carat side princess cut diamonds and six diamond accents which add extra sparkle to the 950 grade platinum band.

For more information regarding the online jeweler Apples of Gold Jewelry:

• visit http://applesofgold.com

Photos courtesy PRWeb

San Francisco Companies Offer Unique Wedding Transportation

noreply@blogger.com (Paris & John) — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 19:52:00 +0000

Are you looking for memorable guest transportation for your wedding or bachelor/bachelorette party? We just learned about two San Francisco transports that are both unforgettable and will offer you a backdrop for great photos of the event.

Classic Cable Car Sightseeing, using replicas of the iconic cablecars, is the original motorized cable car company of San Francisco and has been providing local color to wedding parties and private events for over 50 years. Sister company Ride The Ducks is one of San Francisco's newest options for brides and grooms.

Private Charters

Both Classic Cable Car Sightseeing and Ride The Ducks offer special pricing and packages for your big day. Starting at $430 for one-way transfers, these private charter vehicles also offer entertainment options including Karaoke, historical narration during the ride, and special theme lighting.

Classic Cable Car Sightseeing

As the original motorized cable car company of San Francisco, many of the Classic Cable Car Sightseeing vehicles are original cable cars that ran on the cables and tracks throughout San Francisco, some of them dating back to the late 1800s to early 1900s. Other vehicles in the fleet were built using the original cable car blueprints and constructed of solid oak and brass.

In addition to providing transportation and entertainment, one of the newest Classic Cable Car Sightseeing wedding party options, is the partnership with Hard Rock Café (located at the entrance to Pier 39). Wedding parties can get the bachelor or bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner or "recovery" brunch rocking and rolling with private chartered transportation aboard a classic motorized cable car then head to Hard Rock Café for meals and celebration at one of San Francisco's top party venues. (Note: not only are the motorized cable cars a picturesque option, but these vehicles can transport guests anywhere within 50 miles of San Francisco.)

Ride The Ducks

Unlike any other transportation option, the most unique aspect of Ride The Ducks is the land to sea adventure. While guests are enjoying riding high above the streets of San Francisco, these amphibious vehicles can make a detour, splashing down into the bay for a quick jaunt on the water--providing spectacular views of the bay and memories to last a lifetime.

Ride The Ducks is equipped to wend through the city's historic streets and neighborhoods and splash down into McCovey Cove; the captain entertains passengers with stories of San Francisco's legendary past and tales from the intriguing present. As an added bonus, everyone gets one of Ride The Ducks‚ famous Wacky Quackers, which helps set the celebratory mood.

For More Information:

For more information or to reserve a private charter, contact Kris O'Brien at 415-922-2425 or email kobrien@sanfranciscoducks.com.
visit www.cablecarcharters.com
visit www.sanfranciscoducks.com

Photos courtesy Ride the Ducks and Classic Cablecar Sightseeing

Weddings at Wyoming's Paradise Ranch

noreply@blogger.com (Grace Sydney) — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 20:33:00 +0000

The thundering echo of horses hooves galloping across a stretch of Wyoming wilderness beats in time to the racing rhythm of a bride and groom's heartbeats as couples tie the knot at Paradise Ranch, a 180-acre heaven on earth nestled in the Big Horn Mountains.

Open to guests June through September, the century-old retreat offers the opportunity for unions as unique as each couple making a lifetime commitment. Weddings can be held inside the Sam Elliot Pope Memorial Chapel, a cozy log cabin house of worship which stands like a portal to the past complete with wooden pews and picture windows which frame views of nature's palette as vibrant as any stained glass, while an eagle flying overhead and the deer that call the ranch home can be silent witnesses to weddings held outdoors.

Newlyweds can cuddle in front of a fireplace in one of 18 log cabins, each of which is decorated with western flair and comes equipped with a full bath, shower, kitchen and a front porch-- perfect for stargazing.

An array of activities are available for couples and up to 70 wedding guests attending the destination I do, including horseback riding, fly fishing, hiking, swimming in an outdoor heated pool and unwinding in an enclosed whirlpool spa.

Rates are based on a one-week stay.

For more information:

• visit www.paradiseranch.com

Mexico's Hacienda Xcanatun Offers Wedding Takeover Package

noreply@blogger.com (Paris & John) — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 14:57:00 +0000

Imagine inviting friends and family to your own tropical, historic hacienda for your wedding and a few days of unforgettable fun. Hacienda Xcanatun, a restored 18th century former sisal plantation on the outskirts of Merida, makes that wedding dream a reality. The new Hacienda of Your Own Wedding Package encourages bridal couples to bring along 34 friends and family to this historic estate for an unforgettable event, all at a price far lower than just a traditional wedding back home. You and your wedding party will be the only guests, making it your own home away from home for a few magical days.

The Package: The Hacienda of Your Own Wedding Package includes the following:

accommodations for two nights for 36 people
daily breakfast
the wedding ceremony and a sumptuous bridal feast (details below)
taxes and service charges are included

Additional nights booked before or after the ceremony enjoy a 20% discount.

The Wedding and Bridal Feast: The wedding package includes:

Floral decorations for the wedding ceremony ranging from minimalist bird of paradise to classic white or red roses, colorful orange lilies
Use of chapel, dining terrace or the 40-seat private dining room for the bridal feast;
Personalized table settings, flowers and candles following the theme of the wedding
A three-course gourmet menu featuring Continental, fusion Yucatecan or Caribbean delicacies
A multi-tiered wedding cake in the couple's favorite flavor; 6 bottles of French sparkling wine for toasting.
Complimentary services of Hacienda Xcanatun's on-site Wedding Coordinator
Taxes and service charges

What's Not Included in the Package: The following items are not included in the wedding package:

Judge or clergyman to perform the ceremony
laboratory fees for blood tests
notary costs
live music or a DJ
all liquor and beverages except for the sparkling wine to toast the newlyweds

Price: The Hacienda of Your Own Wedding Package, including accommodations for 36 people, is priced at $9,995. This represents a 25 percent reduction off standard pricing.

Dates: Valid from April to December 15, 2009

Wedding Venues: Wedding ceremonies take place in the restored family chapel or chapel terrace, on the dining terrace, or any of the lovely spots in Xcanatun's extravagant gardens. Flowers and candles decorate the wedding site and bridal feast, which features a three-course menu combining continental, fusion Yucatecan or European delicacies; a multi-tiered wedding cake; and sparkling French wine for the wedding toast. Xcanatun's on-site wedding coordinator ensures a stress-free experience for the bridal party by tailoring every detail to their wishes.

The Honeymoon Suite: The spacious bi-level honeymoon suite has a huge wrap-round terrace, 20-foot beamed ceilings, polished stone and marble floors and a marble-clad bath area with a circular hydrotherapy tub. Hand carved furnishings, and antiques decorate the suite, in addition to alabaster amenities, fine cotton robes, and toiletries made from the essence of grapefruit and juniper. On the wedding night, fragrant with the scent of fresh flowers, candles and incense, the king-size bed is covered in a flower petal design.

Why It's Dreamy: With just 18 suites and rooms set on nine acres of greenery, each accommodation at Hacienda Xcanatun has a private patio or balcony with a Yucatecan hammock. Some boast outdoor hydrotherapy tubs. All of the suites are individually furnished with antiques and heirloom textiles, hand-carved furniture, marble floors and original oil paintings. Huge marble-wrapped bathrooms feature a hydrotherapy tub, a three-way shower head, and a skylight.

Hacienda Xcanatun also offers a world-class restaurant, named among the top 50 restaurants in Mexico by the American Society of Hospitality Sciences. The boutique hotel also is home to an intimate spa offering holistic Maya as well as beauty/ wellness treatments. A short drive away, guests enjoy colonial Merida's fine museums and markets, trendy clubs and horse-drawn carriage rides. Champagne picnics can be arranged along miles of deserted beaches, and, the wonders of the ancient Maya explored at famous ceremonial cities such as Uxmal and Chichen Itza.

For More Information:

call 1-888-883-3633
email direccion@xcanatun.com
visit www.xcanatun.com

Photo courtesy Hacienda Xcanatun