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Issue 20
FABULOUS FASHIONS ❤ ❤
Latest sensational trends – slash thigh gowns Get the look – Gardens, City and Ice Weddings
Caribbean Favourites Your Style Jamaica, Antigua, Grenada, Barbados, St Lucia and the Dominican Republic
PRICE IS RIGHT! Month-by-month guide to
low-cost
REAL WEDDINGS
Mauritius, Malta, New York and Sweden
243 AMAZING
IDEAS For magical weddings & honeymoons
❤ Stylish venues ❤ Gorgeous gowns ❤ Creative themes
honeymoons Honeymoon tour of Spain’s vineyards
HONEYMOON SAVINGS
www.bridesabroad.com
PLAN YOUR WEDDING ABROAD ❤ Worldwide weather guide ❤ Luxury hen parties ❤ Tips from expert planners £3.99
Wine Tasting
ATE LI ER PRON OVI A S 2 01 7 CO LLEC TI ON STYLE: N AC E R
LONDON FLAGSHIP STORE 94, NEW BOND STREET · CONTACT CENTER 0800 021 1142
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STYLE: N I KOL
ATE LI ER PRON OVI A S 2 01 7 COLLEC TI ON
Welcome&
Credits Published by Joint Venture Media Ltd Tel: 01937 58 48 92
Publisher Martin Cody-Owen martin@bridesabroad.tv
Editor-in-Chief Congratulations
Congratulations!
For those of you who are newly engaged – how wonderful! There are exciting times ahead. Or, if your big day is fast approaching, the anticipation and stress levels are more than likely starting to show! This is where Brides Abroad magazine can help. Whatever stage you’ve reached in planning your destination wedding and/or honeymoon abroad, we have ideas, inspiration and a helping hand to take the stress away and ensure that you can look forward to simply saying “I do”. All you have to do is choose your ideal destination and decide on the style and budget of your wedding and honeymoon. Do you want to stay closer to home and lap up the sunshine in Europe? Then Malta is an excellent choice, with many gorgeous honeymoon hotels and wedding venues, a superb yearround climate and breathtaking sights and scenery. (P.26) Alternatively, dare to be different and choose somewhere cool and chilled to impress your guests with an ice or snow wedding. Head to the Alpine slopes, or see the incredible northern lights from your amazing venue in Iceland or Sweden’s Ice Hotel. (P.58) Some say that you simply can’t beat a tropical island, so if that’s your dream, then head to the Indian Ocean where Mauritius will tick all the boxes with its turquoise ocean, powder white beaches, swaying palms and breathtaking sunsets, plus a choice of simply stunning hotels and venues. (P.18) Of course, you can live it up city style and choose the glamour and glitz of New York, USA with its iconic skyline for your backdrop – great for destination weddings and fun honeymoons all-year-round. (P.46) Our world weather chart (P.76) and advice from expert wedding planners on every aspect of the planning process – including all-important hen parties (P.84) – will ensure that your wedding planning is an effortless experience. Draw inspiration from us on the world’s most romantic honeymoons – from dazzling islands in the Caribbean (P.96) and Greece (P. 112) to delicious wine-tasting tours of Spain’s vineyards (P.106) and if you think you can’t afford it, check out our fabulous budget destinations where you’ll discover the Price Is Right (P.118). If you need further inspiration our team are always happy to help on 0800 so much more, visit www.bridesabroad.com
211 8255. And for
Enjoy!
Terri Cody-Owen terri@bridesabroad.tv
Assistant to Publisher Patsy Owen
Fashion Editor Lulu Bousfield
Contributors Lisa Burton Holly Catz Lily Hardwick
Photography Dreamstime Matt – Hush Photography Javan Liam Jimmy Chu Photography (jimmychuphotography.com) Kent Tunlind Alistair Muir
Design Chris Peach www.centricalsolutions.com
Printer Warners Midlands Plc. www.warners.co.uk
Advertising Sales Terri Cody Owen Editor-in-Chief terri@bridesabroad.tv To Subscribe to Brides Abroad for just £22 for 6 issues, email Martin@JointVentureMedia.tv
0800 211 8255 www.BridesAbroad.com ©Joint Venture Media Ltd. All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights are reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in Brides Abroad magazine do not necessarily represent the views of Joint Venture Media. Every care is taken in compiling the contents but the publisher of Brides Abroad magazine assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from participation in any offer, competition or advertisement contained within Brides Abroad magazine.
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Director of Sales Sylvia Oakley 0113 284 31 00 Sylvia@bridesabroad.tv
Cover Bridal gown by Nurit-Hen, style SW-8. www.nurit-hen.com
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Contents 34
IN THIS ISSUE REAL WEDDINGS
20
Family affair in Mauritius
34
Tie the knot in Malta
48 52 64
They met in a coffee shop in Glasgow, but Elizabeth and Paul chose a romantic beach in Mauritius to say, “I do” Tomas and Natasha marry on the saltpans of the beautiful Maltese island of Gozo
Love in the Big Apple
Central Park, New York City made a gorgeous setting for Louise and Kieren’s fairytale wedding
Dancing in New York City
Salsa lovers Julie and Adam met at a dance class, soon they were getting into the New York groove at their wedding in Manhattan
Cool as Ice
Adam and Carly’s frosty reception at the Ice Hotel, Sweden
WEDDING DESTINATIONS
8 18
28 46 58
Wedding & Honeymoon News Mauritius Weddings – bliss in the Indian Ocean This Indian Ocean island is the perfect setting for beach weddings
Magical Malta
Weddings and honeymoons are celebrated in marvellous Mediterranean style on the islands of Malta & Gozo
A marriage made in Manhattan
Marry like a movie star with a dream wedding in New York – with the Manhattan skyline as an awesome backdrop
It’s snow time!
From cosy Alpine chalets to breathtaking hotels made of pure ice, a winter-white wedding promises to be truly unforgettable
52 SUBSCRIBE SIX ISSUES FOR ONLY £18.00 Worth £23.94 inc FREE P&P
martin@bridesabroad.tv
6 www.BridesAbroad.com
64
Fashion
8
70
Show a leg!
72
Get the look – Garden Weddings
73 74
We showcase the latest trends in bridal gowns – the sensational high-leg split Floral wedding gowns and accessories that are as pretty as a picture
Get the look – City style
Great looks for sophisticated brides around town
Get the look – Ice Queen
Cool and chic and whiter than white bridal style
Planning
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80 82 84 86 88
112
82
90 92 94
Weather permitting
Your worldwide guide to wedding and honeymoon weather
Pop the question
Experts answer your most frequently asked questions on planning your dream day
WeddingInsurance–doIreallyneedit?
Don’t risk losing your money should anything go wrong with your wedding plans
5 Henpartytips
Your guide to the perfect hen-do
West End hens
Party like celebrities with your hens in the bright lights of London’s West End
Glitzy hens at Marriott Park Lane
Treat the girls to luxury and style and indulgent spa treatments at one of London’s most glamorous hotels
Theatre review – Motown the Musical
Hit the West End and sing along to the ultimate musical extravaganza
The professional touch
Leave the planning to the experts whilst you enjoy a stress-free wedding
Ask the planners
Wedding planner, Lisa Burton, of the Bridal Consultants shares her expertise with brides-to-be
honEYMoons
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118
Caribbean favourites
The flavour of the Caribbean Islands – find the one that suits your taste
104 The Bahamas
The perfect island location for weddings beside and beneath the sparkling Caribbean Sea
106 A taste of Spain
Take a wine tasting tour of the vineyards of Spain – it’s the ultimate honeymoon for foodies and wine lovers!
110 Grape Escapes
Indulge in total wine pampering with the latest Vinotherapy spa treatments at spa resorts in Spain’s breathtaking wine region
& Zante – two Greek 112 Mykonos island gems
The stunning Greek islands are a beautiful place to spend your European honeymoon – Brides Abroad highlights two favourite island destinations
the world – the price 118 Explore is right!
You don’t have to pay the earth for a romantic honeymoon with our month-by-month guide to low-cost honeymoons www.BridesAbroad.com 7
Honeymoon glow in Italy
Planning your wedding can be stressful, so what better way to unwind and relax after your big day than spending your honeymoon being pampered at a luxurious spa hotel. The awardwinning Adler Thermae spa wellness resort in the rolling hills of Italy’s Tuscany has created sublime Couples’ spa treatments, which are perfect for honeymooners, and with an array of healthy activities including guided mountain biking and hiking tours, gym classes and yoga, you will begin married life feeling relaxed and energized. The Adler Thermae Spa & Wellness Resort was opened in 2004 in the spa village of Bagno Vignoni with its healing thermal
waters. Newlyweds can be indulged with the Adler Luxury Aetos Ritual, which is a dreamy Vinotherapy experience harnessing the healing power of grapes with a purifying peel and relaxing massage followed by a soak in a wine bath.
Book it!
Adler Thermae rates start from £220 pp per night, sharing a double room on a half-board basis, including full access to the spa and indoor & outdoor fitness programs. www.adler-thermae.com
BRIDESABROAD NEWS Be inspired, informed and amazed by the latest news on overseas weddings & honeymoons
Hens in bake-off!
The days of pub and club crawling Hen Parties are fast coming to an end as bridal parties seek a more sophisticated hen do. With this in mind, and with the popularity of the Great British Bake Off, Hen Heaven has launched its Bake With A Legend hen package, where hens can hone their culinary skills with popular Bake Off contestants. The new package is perfect for the star bakers of the party as well as fans of the show and those that simply want a fun, memorable day. For a great mix of fun and healthy competition, inspired by the TV phenomenon The Great British Bake Off, hens can compete against their friends for the title of Baking Queen amongst former contestants of the TV show – the TV bakers who have signed up to the task include Ian Cumming, Howard Middleton, Paul Jagger, Glenn Cosby, Kate Henry, Sandy Docherty and Ugne Bubnaityte, each based at various locations across the UK.
Book it!
From £99 per person, parties of 12 or more can meet and bake alongside former Bake Off favourites. The three-hour session includes all essentials – ingredients, aprons and an optional cheeky tipple to keep up the team spirits. www.henheaven.co.uk/bake-with-alegend-hen-weekends. 8 www.BridesAbroad.com
Ultimateromance,Maldives-style
Few honeymoon destinations can compete with the magic of The Maldives, however one hotel takes romance to a whole new level. Baros Maldives has been voted the ‘Most Romantic Resort in the World’ for the fourth time at the World Travel Awards, and it’s easy to see why. Surrounded by tropical greenery and an exquisite coral reef, Baros Maldives is the ultimate choice for honeymoons. The luxury resort offers plush accommodation in 45 Beachside and 30 Private Water Villas, many with private pools and each complete with a Villa Host to cater to your every need. The award-winning Baros Residence offers the ultimate private beach retreat, tucked away from the rest of the island in lush vegetation with private swimming pool and dedicated butler on call 24/7. Private dining is also available anywhere on the island thanks to Destination Dining – including on your villa terrace, on the beach or a romantic sunset cruise to a secluded sandbank. Private dining and couples’ massages are also available on the ‘Piano Deck’, a unique wooden deck shaped like a grand piano, floating off the coast of Baros.
Book it!
Rates at Baros Maldives start from £464 per night in a Deluxe Villa on a B&B basis, excluding taxes. www.baros.com
Luxury in the Wilderness Nature loving couples planning the ultimate wilderness escape for the honeymoon of a lifetime, are going to fall in love with the new Wild Coast Tented Lodge, which opens in Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park in October 2017. Situated along a pristine beach on the fringes of the National Park, the lodge was created by Sri Lanka’s most prominent tea producing family, who already own and manage a collection of luxury boutique resorts in Sri Lanka. The 28-tented West Coast Tented Lodge will combine the comforts of a luxury hotel with the back-to-nature excitement of a wilderness safari camp. The ‘cocoon suites’ boast soaring vaulted ceilings and jungle views from the double-height glass facades. The room interiors fuse colonial chic with contemporary design to include freestanding copper bathtubs and four-poster beds. Guests will be taken in vehicles to the quietest corners of Yala National Park by expert guides to see and learn about the diversity of flora flora and fauna, including wild elephants, sloth bears and illusive Sri Lankan leopards in their fascinating natural surroundings.
Book it!
Rates from £735 per room per night, on an all-inclusive basis, based on two sharing with a two-night minimum stay. www.resplendentceylon.com/wildcoastlodge-yala
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Married at sea
A growing number of couples are ditching traditional land-bound ceremonies and choosing to get married at sea, according to leading cruise bookers CruiseDeals.co.uk. Princess Cruises have led the way when it comes to getting hitched at sea, offering couples a ‘Tie the Knot At Sea’ package in which the ceremony is conducted by the ship’s captain. Their ships also have on-board wedding chapels featuring state-of-the-art technology to transmit footage of the ceremony across the world via video link. In 2015, Royal Caribbean® ships hosted weddings and renewals for 34 couples sailing from the UK alone and P&O Cruises host an average of 300 weddings per year. Weddings aboard ship offer couples a unique wedding experience, with wedding packages starting at just £1,500 – surprisingly, getting married at sea could prove to be a cost effective option! Perhaps one of the biggest draws of getting married aboard ship is that an exotic honeymoon comes as part of the package! If travelling with your extended family isn’t your idea of a romantic honeymoon, many cruise lines also allow for land-bound guests to come onboard and witness the wedding ceremony while the ship is in port.
Book it!
For further details log on to www.Cruisedels.co.uk
Adopt a turtle!
What could make a wedding more special and meaningful for lovers of wildlife, than adopting a turtle on your wedding day? The beaches on the Caribbean island of Tobago are popular nesting sites for turtles and so Le Grand Courlan Spa Resort has introduced a special Adopt A Turtle Wedding Package. The hotel is set in the hills overlooking the beautiful mile-long Stonehaven Beach, which is visited by leatherback turtles between March and September. Now couples have the chance to adopt a turtle when marrying at the resort during the turtle nesting season – they can also name their adopted turtle and will be provided with an update on how it is progressing at the end of the season. The adoption is done through local charity SOS (Save our Sea Turtles)
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Tobago, which can also organize guided turtle watching trips for guests to watch them laying their eggs or to see hatchlings heading to sea. And even better news, couples booking a stay of 10-nights or more on a half-board or all-inclusive basis will be offered a FREE wedding ceremony at Le Grand Courlan, with a great choice of romantic locations to say “I do,” plus a complimentary spa treatment.
Book it!
www.legrandtobago.com
COUPLES TOWER ISLE
COUPLES SWEPT AWAY
COUPLES NEGRIL
COUPLES SANS SOUCI
...the world’s most romantic holiday...
Expect more, because we include more! Let us transform your dream Caribbean holiday into a memory that will last 2 lifetimes - yours and his.
Elegant indulgence for discerning romantics. Your holiday package includes FREE
~ Water skiing with professional instrucion ~ Scuba diving with professional instruction ~ ~ Scuba diver resort course ~ Windsur ng with professional instruction ~ ~ Tennis with professional instruction ~ 24 hour gourmet dining ~ In room stocked bar ~ ~ Unlimited Premium brand drinks ~ Gold (18 holes, transfers and green fees) ~ ~ Selection of o -site excursions Weddings* *Mandatory $250 for marriage license
Reservations 020 7749 9285 Information & brochures 01582 794 420 www.couplesresorts.co.uk
Caesar’s Palace ceremonies Say “I Do” in Las Vegas, the wedding capital of the world, at one of the nine Caesars Entertainment Las Vegas Resorts, which is offering couples a choice of 20 wedding chapels and a variety of wedding experiences. The all-inclusive special packages include poolside ceremonies, in-suite receptions, live webcasting options and free cake tastings. Couples can opt to say “I do” in a glass-enclosed cabin on the world’s tallest observation wheel with incredible views of the city, or in the largest hotel chapel on the Las Vegas Strip, or even the romantic observation deck of the Eiffel Tower replica. Popular dates this year that are bound to bring the best luck include 10/7/17 and 17/7/17 – since seven is the luckiest number in Vegas. caesars.com/weddings/las-vegas.
Honeymoon wellness in Majorca After the stress of planning their wedding, couples looking to chill and unwind during their honeymoon will be delighted to discover Park Hyatt Mallorca, a tranquil honeymoon hideaway on the lesser known east coast of Majorca. The 158-room hotel, built in the style of a traditional hilltop village, has recently opened its Serenitas Spa and Wellness Centre, which enables newlyweds to immerse themselves in a pampering break to rejuvenate mind, body and soul. The spa offers a peaceful oasis, surrounded by landscaped gardens with gorgeous views of the Serra de Llevant Mountains. Couples can choose from a wide variety of authentic
12 www.BridesAbroad.com
treatments that are tailored to meet their needs and incorporate the island’s natural resources, with ingredients such as pine, lavender, almonds, olive oil, citrus and aloe vera. Bespoke wellness programs can also be created to include activities such as trekking, yoga, pilates, fitness, water-based activities and nutritive food care.
Book it!
Nightly B&B rates at Park Hyatt Mallorca start from £352 in a Park King Room. mallorca.park.hyatt.com
Unique honeymoons in Israel Why opt for the well-trodden path of honeymoon destinations when you can choose somewhere a little unique – like Israel? The InterContinental David Tel Aviv has launched its new 5-night Honeymoon Package, which can be booked by guests who elect to stay in a Club Level Room or a Mediterranean Suite on a B&B basis. The package includes: airport pick-up, welcome in-room Champagne and roses, a spa treatment, couples’ photoshoot (option to have drone photography experience), £80 food and beverage credit, RFM cake – from the internationally renowned pastry chef Roni Fredy Mordechai and club lounge access. Additional options at extra charge include a helicopter tour, rappelling hike, Tel Aviv nightlife experience, air balloon ride and skydiving. The InterContinental David Tel Aviv enjoys a prime location overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, with elegant contemporary interiors and a choice of dining options.
Book it!
The Honeymoon Package is available to newlyweds booked into Club Level Room for £2,615, or in a Mediterranean Suite for £5,500 for a five-night stay. www.intercontinental.com/telaviv.
Wow weddings in Iceland
With Brits increasingly looking further afield for an affordable wedding destination with the wow factor, Iceland is becoming a popular choice. WOW Air’s ultra-low airfares mean that dream weddings in Iceland’s amazing lunar landscape can now be a reality. The Icelandic carrier offers flights from the UK to Keflavik from as little as £29.49 in less than three hours from London Gatwick, Bristol and Edinburgh. Iceland’s landscapes alter dramatically through the seasons. Those opting for a spring/summer wedding can expect a milder climate with long days and lush greenery, whilst those marrying in autumn/winter will witness the stark beauty of dramatic snow-capped mountains and icy volcanic landscapes, with possibly a glimpse of the famous Northern Lights. One of the most striking regions to say “I do” is the peninsular of Sn fellsnes, just two hours’ drive from Reykjavik, and characterised by sweeping, golden beaches, lava fields, waterfalls and fiery geysers, which make iconic backdrops to dream weddings. Specialising in the area, Love Iceland (www.wedding.is) is a wedding planning company that offers a bespoke service, ensuring every step towards saying ‘I do’ is seamless and stress free.
Book it!
www.wowair.co.uk. 14 www.BridesAbroad.com
Enjoy being a Star on your Wedding Day
Gracing the shores of the Caribbean’s most breathtaking beaches, IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts offers a setting second to none to begin your life of wedded bliss. Beneath swaying palms on sunkissed beaches, your dream day will become a stunning reality, with a personal wedding coordinator on hand to take care of every detail, so that you can relax and enjoy your day to its fullest. On your wedding´s day at IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts, you are the Star. SPAIN · HUNGARY · GREECE · BULGARIA · MONTENEGRO · TUNISIA · MOROCCO · CAPE VERDE · JAMAICA · CUBA · DOMINICAN REPUBLIC · MEXICO · BRAZIL · USA
We’reloving Tropical wrap For guests at Caribbean beach weddings, here’s the ideal gift wrapping paper to set the tropical theme, decorated with colourful pineapples, melons and passion fruit. Price £5.95 for five sheets. www.dotcomgiftshop.com
flamingo Pretty flamingo
amingo party lights is sure to This loop of 10 pink flflamingo brighten up any tropical wedding! Fitted with BS standard 3 pin plug. For indoor use only. £14.95 ww.dotcomgiftshop.com
Beautiful legs!
Off the cuff
Prepare to fall in love with Charnos Hosiery’s Bridal collection of luxurious lace hold ups & stockings in 10 denier, with deep lace tops. Available in Champagne Ivory & Ivory. Price £12.95. www.stockingsdirect.co.uk
Make your new groom smile with this cheeky cufflink set – the perfect wedding day gift . Price £10. www.gettingpersonal.co.uk
Fake it!
Don’t pale into insignificance on your wedding day, look tanned and gorgeous whatever the weather with tanning products from leading brand Fake Bake, in tones to Fair (RRP £24.95) and Original (RRP £26.95) to suit your skintone. www.fakebake.co.uk
Mug shot
Looking for an inexpensive novelty present for newlyweds? Stacking Hubs & Wifey mugs make a fun gift for just £3. www.primark.com 16 www.BridesAbroad.com
Show the way
Be sure that your guests will find their way around your wedding reception with these decorative wedding signs. Price £5. www.primark.com
Mauritius Weddings Bliss in the Indian Ocean
Mauritius is an idyllic tropical island where couples can dip their toes gently into married life on the shores of the sparkling Indian Ocean 18 www.BridesAbroad.com
Couples seeking a picturesque palm-fringed setting for their barefoot beach wedding or romantic honeymoon in paradise will fall head over heals in love with Mauritius, a stunning island in the southern Indian Ocean with lush tropical vegetation and long stretches of fine white sandy beach. Mauritius has a central plateau fringed by striking jagged mountains – the remnants of extinct volcanic craters. The island is natural, spectacular and above all, relaxing, with unlimited year-round sunshine - hot but not too hot, with a refreshing ocean breeze to cool and refresh.
Natural wonders Nature lovers will adore Mauritius. It boasts a long coastline almost entirely surrounded by a coral reef, which has created a turquoise lagoon around the island, making it ideal for swimming, snorkelling and water sports. The reef is teeming with marine life and is a scuba divers dream, while on land there is an abundance of unusual and endemic species of animals, birds and plants. The Mauritian authorities are determined to keep their island unspoilt, so you won’t find high-rise hotels and apartment blocks here – just luxurious destination resorts, designed to blend into the unspoilt landscape and its towns and villages which are home to the friendly native Mauritians. For honeymooners, Mauritius is the perfect place to relax and soothe the soul, or if you are looking for adventure and activities, there’s plenty to keep you occupied – from golf and excursions to Port Louis to all kinds of water sport. The beach is in stunning abundance – so use it! Sailing, windsurfing, scuba diving, water skiing, swimming with dolphins and, of course, saying “I do” or having a blessing below the shady palms with a truly romantic beach ceremony! Sunsets in Mauritius are sensational, and as it dips below the Indian Ocean, you can enjoy pre-dinner cocktails and romantic
Top 5 Things To Do 1 2 3 4 5
Go to the races Rub shoulders with the socialites of Mauritius at the Champ de Mars racecourse in Port Louis – it’s the oldest racecourse in the southern hemisphere, so go and sip Champagne in the sunshine as you have a flutter on the horses. Marvel at the waterfall Climb the stairs to the viewing platform at the top of Chamarel, the highest waterfall in Mauritius at 100 metres. It’s well worth the effort to reach this natural beauty spot, which offers an awesome sight and is the perfect photo opportunity. Browse the shops in Grand Baie The cosmopolitan resort of Grand Baie is known for its great nightlife, shopping and restaurants. When you’ve finished shopping for souvenirs, head to the gorgeous beach for an afternoon of watersports. Eat crocodile curry We’re not kidding! The star of the show at La Vanille Crocodile Park is obviously the crocodile, and they actually serve crocodile curry in the restaurant! However, you can also see giant bats, giant turtles, monkeys and a huge insect collection and learn about the endangered species endemic to Mauritius. Visit a botanical garden See bats hanging from the branches of Fruit Bat Trees at Pamplemousses Botanical Garden – also known as Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolan Botanic Garden. It covers 60 acres of land and also features giant lily ponds with tadpoles and frogs plus trees planted by Nelson Mandela and Indira Ghandi.
dining at its best with local and international cuisine including Creole, Indian, European and fresh seafood harvested from the sea earlier in the day. Then dance the night away to music from local bands – the sexy local dance is called Sega. Join in if you dare!
Getting married in Mauritius Mauritius offers spectacular weddings and renewal of vows ceremonies in gorgeous settings – from a gazebo on the beach to prettily decorated wedding pavilions overlooking the sea. You can even get hitched aboard a catamaran! A number of Mauritian resorts and tour operators offer all-inclusive wedding and honeymoon packages to suit all budgets. Weddings usually take place in the late afternoon as it is the cooler time of day and the light is better for photographs – and you can take advantage of those spectacular sunsets!
The legals The day before your wedding in Mauritius the wedding team will arrange for you to be taken by car, with the originals of all required documentation, to the island’s capital, Port Louis, where you need to visit four different offices: Civil Status Main Office; Attorney at Law; Supreme High Court of Mauritius and Civil Status Sub Office – your taxi driver will take you to a sub office in the district closest to your hotel for the publication of the wedding and for the time of your wedding to be confirmed.
Documentation You will need the following documents: Copies of passports; Copies of birth certificates; Decree absolute (if divorced); Deed Poll (if name has changed); Copies of former marriage certificate if widowed and copies of former spouse’s death certificate; Copies of adoption papers if applicable; Non-English documentation must be translated into English and duly stamped. A little Mauritian red tape also states that if the bride-to-be has been divorced in the last 10 months, she will need a Mauritian Doctor’s certificate of non-pregnancy. There is a small charge for this certificate. www.BridesAbroad.com 19
REAL WEDDINGS
Family affair in
Mauritius
Elizabeth and Paul’s ceremony on the Mauritius sands 20 www.BridesAbroad.com
A birthday treat for school teacher Elizabeth Kearney’s daughter Julia at a popular coffee shop in her home town of Glasgow turned out to be so much more when her ‘Mr Right’, lawyer Paul Smith, popped in for a cuppa. It wasn’t long before Julia and her mum were celebrating again, this time it was with Paul and his two children, as they said “I do” during their intimite beach wedding in Mauritius Finding ‘the one’ Our meeting was a real chance meeting! I was having a birthday party for my little girl at Boaters Coffee shop, which overlooks Rouken Glen boating pond, and Paul came in for a coffee. He later asked a friend for my number. Was it love at first sight? Well it was for Paul! LOL.
The proposal He proposed to me in my flat by going down on one knee, in front of our three children and with Diamonds by Rihanna playing
Location location We chose to marry abroad because we wanted an intimate family event in a beautiful location. We chose Mauritius for its stunning scenery, weather and the gorgeous hotel.
The planning We used a professional wedding co-ordinator at the resort, Amar, to organise our wedding ceremony. He was absolutely fabulous and did everything. It took all of 45-minutes, which was stress-free and allowed us to contiue our holiday. The children played in the swimming pool whilst we chose cake, flowers, musical instrument and photographer. We booked our wedding through Tropical Sky, and Karen at Tropical Sky was extremely helpful, especially the day before we came away. My dress would not fit into the box and she took charge of it all. We got it over! We did a bit of planning before we left - legal documents and clothes for the wedding day. But once on the flight, that was it all done and we relaxed for the whole stay. www.BridesAbroad.com 21
REAL WEDDINGS
The guests We just took our three children (my daughter Julia, 9 and Paul’s children Helena, 9 and Patrick, 6) with us, which was perfect. It was not just the two of us making a commitment: it was all of us. We had adjoining suites in a beautiful colonial hotel, with French doors that opened out onto the sea. We didn’t invite any other guests, so it was a surprise for everyone. We only told the children at the airport!
Getting the look I wore a Colonial-style wedding dress. It wasn’t a themed wedding. It was a beautiful relaxed wedding in a stunning location. Paul surprised me with a pair of diamond and pearl ear-rings. The spa sorted out hair and make-up for me and the girls. It was such a tranquil place to get ready for the wedding.
Something Old, Something New Something Old: Paul turned 50 the day before our wedding! Something New: pearl earrings. Something Borrowed: pearl hair clips. Something Blue: lingerie .
Groom & bridesmaids Paul wore a navy jacket, blue shirt and beige trousers. His Best Man (his 6-yearold son Patrick) wore the same. Julia and Helena were my bridesmaids and both wore chiffon, ivory dresses and their hair was down with and decorated with flowers.
The details We chose local flowers. Some of them were picked from the grounds of the hotel, and had a traditional two-tier wedding cake.
The ceremony The wedding ceremony took place on a quite spot of the beach which was close to the lake. It lasted around 40 mins – it was so romantic with the violin playing in the background, it was a very emotional day. We were married by a Mauritian Registrar and I was ‘given away’ by Julia and Helena.
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The reception Our reception took place on the beach. The restaurant prepared two separate tables, surrounded by fire torches. It was wonderful. We relaxed with Champagne under the stars and watched the children play in the sand at the water edge. We were served an Asian five-course meal. It was only the five of us, and was one of the best days of our lives. Our First Dance was to This Guy’s In Love With You by Burt Bacharach.
Photographic memories Our photography was arranged by the hotel. Jos, the photographer, did a fabulous job. There was no fuss and he captured the most magnificant pictures throughout several settings. My favourite photo is of all of us walking through the gardens of a colonial sugar cane plantation at sunset and we were all laughing and joking at the end of the day.
Magic moments Sounds soppy, but the best moment for me was when we exchanged vows and Paul was filling up. Paul’s favourite moment was having a family hug at the end the end of the service. It was also a very special memory at the end of the day when we were relaxed having meal on the beach and our children played happily in the sand. Patrick also created some funny memories, when he went wandering off in the middle of the day, paddling his feet in the lake and when he was ordering a cocktail at the bar before the ceremony!
The honeymoon We had the honeymoon suite from day one. We hired a speed boat on our first ‘Smith’ family day and went swimming with dolphins, then snorkelling at a lagoon on the west coast of Mauritius. Later on, Paul and I went for an afternoon couples’ massage, which was amazing and romantic.
The three children went on a glass bottom boat trip over the coral reef.
On budget? Price-wise it was comparable to a large UK hotel wedding but more intimate with many happy memories. For us it was on budget.
Further information WEDDING PLANNER UK Karen Andrews at Tropical Sky www.tropicalsky.co.uk Tel : 01342 886748 WEDDING PLANNER AT RESORT: Amar WEDDING VENUE Heritage, Le Telfair, Mauritius PHOTOGRAPHY Jos
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Advertising Feature
Timeless Elegance at
St Regis Mauritius
Weddings at St Regis are celebrations ‘Beyond Expectation’. Every detail is attended to with care; every moment is a cherished memory in the making – Imagine exchanging vows in an elegant ballroom setting or delighting in a first dance on a private beach lit only by the stars! Weddings and Renewal of Wedding Wows at the St Regis Mauritius are always the talk of the town; elegant affairs distinguished by the finest wines, most exquisite cuisine and personal attention that St Regis promises. From personalised menus and exquisitely appointed venues to impeccable service with a seasoned St. Regis specialist standing by ready to ensure your most precious day is also your most memorable, you are guaranteed that your wedding day will be absolutely perfect. There is no address like the St Regis Mauritius Resort. Reclining on white sands of Le Morne Beach and a turquoise lagoon,
the 5-star luxury resort boasts a magical setting, located on the south-west peninsula of the island known as the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’. It offers lavishly appointed accommodation in 172 guest rooms and suites with breathtaking views over the Indian Ocean.
Wining and dining Newlyweds can enjoy a delicious choice of superb restaurants offering a myriad of gastronomic influences – from Frenchinspired and traditional Mauritian cuisine, to the exotic dishes of South-East Asia and fine Japanese selections. Le Manoir Dining
Room reflects the decor and service of a stately home, serving delicious Mauritian and French cuisine; The Boathouse Grill is an elegant beachside gourmet experience where you can eat with your feet in the sand and dance into the sunset; The Floating Market is an East Asian inspired restaurant offering Thai, Malay, Vietnamese, Indonesian and Singaporean cuisine; Atsuko restaurant presents the hallmark of the Far East in a haven of calm; Simply India is a signature restaurant that features traditional Indian cuisine with aromatic Tandoori specialties. As night falls, The 1904 Bar, a quiet haven of relaxation by day, becomes the social
hub of the resort. Beginning at dusk with light background jazz artists and residential pianist, night follows with full-flavoured cocktails – from rum cocktails to Mauritian ‘teasers’ – snacks and live entertainment. The date 1904 coincides with the building of New York City – the hallmark of the St Regis brand today.
Sports and activities For honeymooners seeking action and adventure there’s plenty to keep them occupied – from kite surfing, windsurfing, snorkeling and water skiing to SUP (stand up paddling), kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving and glass bottom boat trips. Couples will find an abundance of complementary activities available at the Watersports Centre on the beach. Or they can take to
the sea on organized Catamaran cruises and Big Game fishing trips. However, no honeymooner should miss the opportunity to go out to sea on a sunny morning excursion to swim with wild dolphins! Human fascination with these intelligent creatures is as old as humanity itself, and all those who have experienced a close encounter with wild dolphins will carry these wonderful memories for a lifetime.
Spa and Wellness Couples seeking tranquility and relaxation will find a sensory heaven in the St Regis Mauritius Resort’s Iridium Spa. Guests will enter on a journey that takes them through half-an-hour to half-a-day of pampering and indulgence in the spa. The Iridium Spa nestles at the heart of the property
in a colonial style building overlooking the Indian Ocean, where it offers treatments in 12 luxurious treatment rooms; a hair and beauty salon; jacuzzi, sauna; steam room and Fitness Centre where you can book personal training, fitness classes and keep in good shape in the state-of-the-art Techno Gym.
Further Information St Regis Mauritius Resort & Spa Le Morne Peninsula Mauritius Le Morne Mauritius Call: +230 403 9000 Visit: www.stregismauritius.com
Advertising Feature
WestinTurtle Bay Resort & Spa
Situated on the beach of the historic Turtle Bay in Balaclava, on the North West coast, the Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa is an idyllic place to say “I do� and is a blissful haven for honeymooners.
Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa is an impressive luxury beach hotel facing the sparkling turquoise waters of Turtle Bay in Balaclava, on the North West coast of Mauritius. Perennially popular and highly-rated, this resort is an idyllic place to say “I do” and has a well-deserved reputation as a blissful haven for honeymooners seeking an Indian Ocean paradise. The bay, from where the Westin Turtle Bay takes its name, was the former breeding ground of the Mauritian green sea turtle. Now, with an eye to ecological sustainability, the resort continues to preserve the environment and exudes a natural, tropical and peaceful ambience - all the ingredients for a relaxing holiday It’s a great place to soak up the tropical sunshine and has two big, refreshing outdoor pools to cool guests during the heat of the day. There are plenty of activities to keep more active couples entertained, including complimentary water sports like sailing, windsurfing and water skiing. Plus tennis, golf, eco-friendly boat trips and local excursions to keep you busy, if you want to be, throughout your stay! The resort is also ideally positioned to explore the island, and is just 15 kilometres from Grand Baie, the hub of Mauritius, which is renowned for excellent shopping, restaurants, bars and nightlife. Westin Turtle Bay resort has been designed to incorporate the natural beauty of the Mauritian landscape, and has been sensitively built using natural tropical elements, including local teak and lava rocks, to create a serene and elegant atmosphere. The modern suites and bedrooms have all been luxuriously designed to ensure a feeling of sophistication and for newlyweds and honeymooners, romantic touches are everywhere. The resort boasts five dining venues, including two specialty restaurants reflecting the diverse cuisine of the island. With internationally-trained staff, the Head Chef ensures that dishes of the highest quality are prepared with flair. The menus are a delight, in particular the Trilogie de Chocolat dessert – a memorable but calorific experience for those with a sweet tooth! For those guests disciplined enough to keep to a diet the resort also offers the Westin brand’s signature Superfoods RX™ menu – healthy and exceptional food combinations which are rich in nutrients, antioxidants and packed with regional flavours.
Spa and Wellness
If you can tear your self away from the beach, guests seeking ultimate relaxation will adore the Heavenly Spa by Westin, designed to heal the mind, relax the body, sooth the spirit and uplift the senses. One of the spa’s signature treatments is the Rollersage, an exclusive stress-relieving treatment and just one of many therapeutic treatments available – perfect for pre and post wedding pampering.
Weddings
For couples looking to have their wedding ceremony at the resort, planning your special day at the Westin Turtle Bay could not be easier as the experienced wedding planning staff are on hand to guide you every step of the way and can offer various wedding packages to suit all tastes and budgets.
Further information Westin Turtle Bay Balaclava Mauritius Tel: (230) 204 1400 www.westinturtlebaymauritius.com
Magical Malta
If you want much more than simply sun, sea and sand then wow your guests in Malta, with its glorious heritage 28 www.BridesAbroad.com
The beautiful island of Malta and its smaller neighbouring islands of Gozo and Comino, form a tiny archipelago nestling at the heart of the Mediterranean, which have a rich blend of cultures – from Moorish to Italian, and British too – as a consequence of frequent past invasions by those nations who have tried to make Malta their own. With sunshine throughout the year, ease of communication (because everyone speaks English as their second language) and a wealth of historical architecture that will make a glorious backdrop to your photographs, a wedding or honeymoon, or both, in Malta is the perfect choice for lovers of culture as well as beautiful scenery and sunshine. With such a history, Malta offers a wide choice of venues and settings for weddings – from grand palazzo and villas to quiet beaches and gardens.
Top 5 Things To Do 1 2
Historical Malta There is plenty for you and your guests to see and do – film fans can visit the locations where Gladiator and Troy were filmed, foodies will be impressed with local wines and seafood and sun worshippers will love to simply stretch out on a beach with a good book or swim in the inky blue Mediterranean sea. Valletta, the islands’ capital, is a glorious city of golden stone, flanked on either side by magnificent natural harbours. Within this fortress the Renaissance streets unfold in an elegant grid, lined with princely palaces and dominated by the spectacular Co-Cathedral of St John where you can learn about the fascinating history of the island and the Knight of the order of St John. Culture vultures will love the Hagar Qim and Mnandra temples, built on the coast over a thousand years before Stone Henge. Or visit the pretty fishing village of Marsaxlokk on the south east corner of Malta and see the picture-perfect painted boats bobbing about in the bay. Don’t forget to take your camera!
The Legals
3 4 5
Stroll through the Silent City Visit Malta’s medieval walled city of Mdina for a taste of Maltese tradition. Meander through the narrow cobbled streets in the ‘Silent City’ so nicknamed because no cars, other than wedding cars, are allowed. Explore the underground temple The ancient burial ground of Hal Saflieni Hypogeum is an UNESCO World Heritage site and the only pre-historic underground temple in the world. It’s packed with statues, tombs, rock carvings, chambers and passages carved out of the rock. 3. Party in Paceville Visit Paceville after dark – This nightlife district is a must for those looking to party the night away and offers everything from cafes and bars to restaurants and nightclubs. Gaze through the Azure window Take a trip to Gozo to see the Azure Window situated near Dwejra Bay. This natural arch is popular with scuba divers and was created after two limestone sea caves collapsed. Discover the Blue Lagoon Take a ferry to the virtually uninhabited (with just one hotel), car-free island of Comino. Its famous Blue Lagoon is a sheltered inlet, popular with both sun worshippers and snorkelers.
Gorgeous Gozo Gozo can be accessed by ferry or seaplane. The island is smaller, greener and more rural than Malta with fishing and agriculture as its main industries. Take the opportunity to explore Gozo’s rugged landscape and spectacular coastline, which boasts some of the Mediterranean’s best dive sites as well as historical sites, forts and Ggantija, its spectacular prehistoric temple. At the western tip are the wild and wave battered cliffs and dramatic rock formations of Dwejra, where you can see the stunning Azure Window and the Blue Hole landmarks – romantic locations for memorable wedding photographs.
Marry in Malta In the Maltese culture marriages are lavish affairs, but whether you are planning an intimate wedding or an extravaganza for 150 or more guests, you can have the wedding of your dreams on the Maltese islands – from beachside ceremonies to church weddings with tailor-made wedding packages to suit your individual taste and style. For religious ceremonies there are over 365 Catholic churches and two Anglican churches dotted around the three islands – from grand basilicas to small parish churches in rural locations. Those preferring a civil ceremony can find plenty of stunning venues to suit their tastes – from baroque palaces and stunning gardens to beautiful farmhouses in Gozo and sandy beaches. Many couples choose to say “I do” at luxury resort hotels – Malta offers a great choice to suit all tastes and budgets. Couples can also opt to travel like royalty to their wedding by hiring the open-topped Austin Healy used by HM The Queen in the 1940s when, as Princess Elizabeth, she and Prince Phillip lived on the island as newlyweds. Alternatively, the wedding party can travel in a vintage Maltese bus for a wonderfully authentic experience.
• You will need to visit the Marriage Registry in • Marriages in Malta are legally binding for UK either Valletta or Gozo with your passports on and European citizens. arrival on Malta, prior to your wedding day. • There is no minimum residency requirement. • The application to marry must be made no less • As English is one of the two official languages in Malta all paper work and the ceremony will than six weeks and no more than three months be in English. before your proposed marriage.
Further information www.visitmalta.com www.visitgozo.com
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Paradise Bay
If you want a stunning seaside venue when you marry in Malta, then Paradise Bay Resort Hotel is the perfect setting, with its views of the Mediterranean and sister islands of Gozo and Comino
Paradise Bay has much to offer its guests, including its own Blue Flag award-winning private beach – one of the best sandy beaches in Malta as well as three large outdoor seawater pools (the largest swimming pool is in the shape of a fish) with spacious sunbathing terraces, ideal for catching the Maltise sunshine, there’s even a large indoor pool for swimming during the winter months, making it a yearround resort. The hotel offers a host of facilities for active honeymooners, including watersports, a PADI diving centre and tennis court. However couples wanting to simply relax and unwind can soak up the sun’s rays on the beach or by the pool or take a leisurely dip in the hotel’s hot tub followed by a sauna and massage. Paradise Bay Resort Hotel offers excellent accommodation in 276 guestrooms, all with sea views, balconies and first-class in-room facilities including satellite TV and mini-fridge. A wide range of delicious, authentic local cuisine and European delights are served 30 www.BridesAbroad.com
in the hotel’s Il-Merill restaurant – you can choose from a rich Mediterranean buffet or the á la carte menu. Lighter snacks are served throughout the day in the Island’s Edge Bistro. If you fancy a chilled afternoon beer, glass of Prosecco or pre-dinner cocktails, the hotel’s two bars provide the ideal places to unwind. For those wishing to explore neighbouring Gozo, a short bus ride will take you to the harbor where you can hop on one of the frequent boats which link the mainland to Gozo Island.
Weddings Whether you’re planning a large-scale celebration or a more intimate affair, getting married in Malta has never been so easy. Paradise Bay Resort Hotel offers first-class banqueting facilities for wedding parties and a choice of indoor and outdoor
venues, including three halls and an extensive sun terrace. Couples planning an elegant beach wedding can say ‘I do’ on the golden sands of the hotel’s private beach before entertaining friends and family in one of the resort’s beautiful event rooms. Alternatively bride and groom can tie the knot with a pool deck wedding or in Moses Hall. The wedding planning team will ensure that your day is perfect.
Further information Paradise Bay Resort Hotel Cirkewwa, MLH 9068 Malta Tel: (+356) 21 521166 Email: info@paradise-bay.com www.paradise-bay.com
Hotel Ta’ Cenc & Spa Brides and grooms looking to get back to nature with an idyllic venue surrounded by lush countryside and stunning sea views will fall in love with Hotel Ta’ Cenc on the Maltese island of Gozo. Blending effortlessly into its tranquil surroundings on Gozo’s highest point, the 5-star Hotel Ta’ Cenc & Spa offers a magical location for weddings and honeymoons. The hotel enjoys a prime position overlooking majestic cliffs with magnificent views over Malta and the island of Comino. Hotel Ta’ Cenc is a romantic village-style venue, which offers an escape to nature, nestling in idyllic countryside, ensconced into a bird sanctuary rich in flora and fauna with its own rocky beach and medieval palazzo within its grounds. Situated on the outskirts of a sleepy village, Hotel Ta’ Cenc & Spa is a perfect
32 www.BridesAbroad.com
honeymoon hideaway offering both relaxation and stimulation – from its holistic wellness spa, large swimming pools and enticing eateries to incredible views and friendly service. This is a hotel which stays true to its belief that every guest should leave feeling pampered, relaxed and stimulated by nature. Hotel Ta’ Cenc & Spa is the perfect base for exploring the many sights and sounds Gozo has to offer. Stroll around the lush grounds and enjoy the peaceful serenity and views of the clear blue sea or venture further and explore the region, which is of great archaeological interest. Accommodation is in 84 stone-built bungalows and rooms that blend seamlessly into the natural environment, while wining and dining is offered in a choice of three restaurants that serve Mediterranean-style Gozitian cuisine, fusing the freshest local ingredients.
Weddings Gozo offers a myriad of churches should you wish to have a religious ceremony.
Alternatively, a public registrar can conduct a civil ceremony within the grounds of Hotel Ta’ Cenc, perhaps on a terrace looking out towards the Mediterranean sea, or within the unique 17th century Palazzo Palina that sits within the hotel’s grounds. Hotel Ta’ Cenc’s wedding planners will personally help you coordinate your big day, from finding the ideal location for you to working on those tiny details that will make yours a unique event to remember forever – from your budget and choice of food to the flowers, hairstylist, photographer and all necessary travel arrangements, including airport transfers.
Further information Hotel Ta’ Cenc & Spa Cenc Street, Sannat SNT9049, Gozo, Malta Tel: +356 22191000 Email: info@tacenchotel.com www.tacenc.com
REAL WEDDINGS
Tie the Knot in
Malta Tomás and Natasha say “I do” on the saltpans of Gozo 34 www.BridesAbroad.com
After a totally romantic proposal over dessert at a restaurant overlooking Galway Bay, their hometown in Western Ireland, Natasha Connaughton and Tomรกs Conneely knew that only the most magical venue would be appropriate to celebrate their wedding. No surprise then that they chose the idyllic island of Gozo, within the Maltese archipelago, to exchange their vows
www.BridesAbroad.com 35
REAL WEDDINGS
Finding ‘the one’ We met on a night out with mutual friends. I knew of Tomás, but had never met him as he had been working at sea – he is a fisherman, and I am a Special Needs Assistant. I don’t think it was love at first sight, however, I do remember thinking that he was such a gentleman and we didn’t stop laughing all evening. We saw each other every day that week for the Galway Races and had our first official date the following week.
The proposal He proposed to me in my favourite restaurant, O’Gradys on the pier. He had it well planned to be fair to him – a lot of preparation went into it from his end. From buying the ring three long months earlier in New York, to asking the restaurant to add additional vegetarian options on the menu that night, just for me. He had also looked up the time of the sunset that evening, so that the dessert would be coming out at the perfect moment. We were in a lovely private booth, looking out over Galway Bay at sunset. After eating two courses I was full and didn’t think I wanted dessert. Tomás convinced me to share something with him. The dessert arrived under a large covered dish and when the waiter lifted the lid it said “Say Yes”. When I looked up Tomás was on one knee. I just started crying – and, obviously, said yes! After dinner he gently suggested we go to our local pub for one drink as it was on the way home. As soon as we walked in I realised he had invited my family and his family to come and celebrate with us. We had the perfect night! It was TOTALLY unexpected. We had spoken about it many times since we had our son in December, but I definitely wasn’t expecting a proposal on that night.
Location, location I always wanted to get married somewhere where the sun would be shining and when we started discussing ideas, it turned out that we both wanted the same. We decided to go for something less formal because it was important that our crazy toddler would be comfortable too. I have a friend who I used to visit when she lived in Malta so Tomás and I decided to go there for a short break. We visited the island of Gozo and just fell in love with it. 36 www.BridesAbroad.com
EST.1986
The planning We used a company called I Do Knot to plan our wedding. From the first exchange of emails I knew Petra was the woman for us. The whole team is world-class. Nothing was ever an issue and everything was agreed before we went over to Malta. It was definitely one of the best decisions we made to use a professional wedding planner.
The guests They all sorted out their own flights, and most stayed on the island of Gozo in two separate cluster of villas which I Do Knot had sourced for us. Some stayed in local hotels too. I think it can be difficult for people to travel to a wedding when they have to work but, happily most of the people we invited accepted their invitation. I think they decided to think of it as a holiday, which is exactly what we wanted.
Getting the look My wedding dress was a Suzanne Neville dress called Sunrose. It had capped sleeves and a lace peplum. I got it in Kadee Bridal in Athlone. I wore pearl drop earrings and a single pearl necklace both from Ti Sento.
Something old, Something New My Something Old was my granddad Cyril’s holy medal, which I had sewn inside my dress beside my heart. My Something New were my earrings. My Something Borrowed was my necklace from my mom and my Something Blue was my granddad Paddy’s necktie, which I got made into a ribbon to bustle up my dress.
Groom & bridesmaids Tomás wore a pair of sandy colour trousers and a waistcoat. He also had braces and a tie. I think he looked really handsome! I had four bridesmaids and they all wore Dessy dresses in the colour suede rose. They wore two different styles, which I loved, and they did too.
The details We didn’t really do a wedding theme. We wanted it to be a fun and romantic atmosphere and I think the I do Knot team delivered that. Especially with the lanterns they placed at the reception. 38 www.BridesAbroad.com
MALTA IS MORE WWW.VISITMALTA.COM
REAL WEDDINGS
For the flowers I chose tulips because they are my favourite. Our cake was a ‘naked cake’ which was sponge with chocolate chip butter cream.
The ceremony We had our 15-minute ceremony on the Saltpans in Gozo. Celebrant John Caruana from the Gozo Marriage Registry married us. My Dad gave me away, which was really special because I am totally a Daddy’s Girl!
The reception We had a garden reception at the villa where we were staying. We named our tables after old Irish fishing boats. The food was superb and included a choice of meat, fish and vegetarian dishes that would suit all our guests’ tastes – a choice of Prawns or Asparagus for starter; Pumpkin Risotto for intermediate course; a choice of Chicken, Sea Bream or Stuffed Marrow dishes for main and a choice of three delicious desserts.
The music of love For our First Dance we had The One by Kodaline. We had a Maltese band first, then we had entertainment from two friends of ours who travelled from Inis Mór, Aran Islands (a small island off Galway) and they brought their own musical instruments. They were amazing. The first thing they did was get everyone to do a traditional Irish dance called the Siege of Ennis; a group dance which got everyone up, involved and laughing!
Photographic memories We chose Matt from Hush Photography, and we are really happy with our photos. 40 www.BridesAbroad.com
We also had Marlon from Earth & Castle to do our video. It came out really well. My favourite photograph is one where I have just walked down the aisle and our son Liam has his arms around both of us giving us a big hug. It melts my heart. Also there is a lovely one of the sunset and it has our shadows in it. It’s a really cool idea.
Magic moments I think all of our best memories come from seeing all our different groups of friends and family mixing together and having fun. As the night went on our Irish band were encouraging guests to get on stage and do a party piece. We actually had a lot of very good singers and entertainers in the group so it was really enjoyable. Needless to say people were shy at first but got much more confidant as the night went on!
On budget? We went over budget but it was worth every penny!
Further information WEDDING PLANNER Petra Gasan, I Do Knot, Malta Website - www.idoknot.com Email - petra@idoknot.com Direct Line - +356 21583573 Mobile Number - +356 79334479 WEDDING VENUE The Saltpans, Gozo (ceremony) Villa Pergola, Gozo (reception) PHOTOGRAPHY Matt - Hush Photography
Marfa Road, Cirkewwa, MLH 9068, Malta T. (+356) 2152 1166 F. (+356) 2152 1153 E. events@paradise-bay.com
www.paradise-bay.com
Advertising Feature
Say “I Do” with Blu
Make this momentous occasion extra special when planning your wedding at one of the 5-star venues at the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands! Say “I do” with the gleaming Mediterranean as your backdrop. Along with a beautiful setting, you’ll receive the tailored services of the experienced wedding team at Radisson Blu. You’ll be able to focus on enjoying this special time, while all other important details like your menu, decorations and entertainment will be taken care of by our experienced team. A dedicated wedding executive will also be present on the day of your wedding to ensure everything runs smoothly. Something magical happens when the perfect balance of flavour, sophistication and ambience is achieved. Experience this flawless blend at Essence, one of the resort’s stunning wedding venues. Watch the sun set over Golden Bay whilst you celebrate with great company on the all-new Beach Terrace.
Book it! Mention Brides Abroad magazine when booking your 2017/18 wedding at the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Golden Sands and benefit from two nights B&B for free. Golden Bay, L/o Mellieha MLH 5510, Malta Tel: +356 2356 1000 Email: fb.goldensands@islandhotels.com
BOOK YOUR 2017/8 WEDDING AND GET 2 NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION ON B&B BASIS FOR FREE.
S O M E T H I N G O L D, S O M E T H I N G N E W, S O M E T H I N G B O R R OW E D, THE PERFECT BACKDROP FOR YOUR DREAM WEDDING!
SOMETHING BLU RADISSON BLU RESORT & SPA, MALTA GOLDEN SANDS Golden Bay, Limits of Mellieha, MLH 5510, Malta T: +356 2356 0000 E: fb.goldensands@islandhotels.com radissonblu.com/goldensandsresort-malta
Advertising Feature
MALTA your recipe for love
Kosy Lounge – db San Antonio Hotel + Spa
with db Hotels & Resorts!
Every bride and groom wants their wedding day to be truly special. The question is how and who can turn a wedding into a wonderful occasion? db Hotels & Resorts would be a very good start for couples looking to say “I do” abroad. db Hotels & Resorts offers everything you could possibly need for the perfect wedding from start to finish – from wedding venues to accommodation, from spectacular food to themed weddings, organisation of the paper work and setup on the actual day – a day that will run smoothly and perfectly, just the way you always dreamed it would be. The company will help you to create your dream wedding on the ‘island of honey’, Malta, a gorgeous, sunny island in the heart of the Mediterranean, just three hours flight away from the UK. db’s chain of resorts and hotels includes the award-winning db Seabank Resort & Spa at the water’s edge of Malta’s most beautiful sandy beach in Mellieha and db San Antonio Hotel & Spa overlooking the magnificent St Paul’s Islands in Qawra. This means ?? www.BridesAbroad.tv
that couples have the choice of different styles of accommodation on an all-inclusive basis, offering delightful venues and an exciting programme of activities.
db Seabank Resort & Spa
At db Seabank Resort & Spa, brides and grooms are spoilt for choice with the selection of idyllic wedding venues. The Atlantis Suite is a chic, modern venue with its own private entrance. It is divided into three sections, making it versatile enough to host various functions and events catering for up to 500 standing or 250 seated guests. The venue has two bars, intelligent lighting system, air-conditioning and private facilities. Not many venues are quite like the Grotta Terrace, which is beautifully positioned in front of the Grotta and overlooks the Laguna Pool. This large outdoor venue is set at the end of the resort for more privacy and has the capacity to host up to 800 standing and 450 seated guests.
Advertising Feature The Gazebo Terrace is nestled in open countryside, surrounded by lush greenery with stunning views of Mellieha heights and the famous Red Tower in the distance. Being terraced, it offers plenty of flexibility for catering for specific events. It has its own private access and capacity to host 300 standing or 150 seated guests. The Upper Terrace is positioned overlooking the resort and enjoys magnificent sea views on one side and the Mellieha Heights as a backdrop on the other. The venue is perfectly designed for large groups and sit down functions of 600 guests or 1,000 standing. Civil ceremonies and weddings can also be hosted underneath the Gazebo. The venue is accessible by car, so it’s ideal for brides who wish to make a grand enterence on ther big day and be driven to the venue in a bridal car from the resort.
Gazebo Terrace – db Seabank Resort + Spa
db San Antonio Hotel & Spa
The db San Antonio Hotel & Spa offers an equally impressive choice of venues for wedding parties: The Casablanca Suite has a fresh decor of warm, shaded colours complemented with parquet flooring, creating a look of grand splendour. It is ideal for large standing receptions of up to 600 guests or gala dinners for 250 guests. The Casablanca enjoys natural light from the magnificent skylight above the terrace and includes a lobby area complete with a bar and private facilities. The Pool Terrace welcomes you with a free flowing water fountain, fire torches and a spectacular view of St Paul’s Bay. It’s an ideal venue for a standing reception around the wonderful multi-tiered outdoor pool during hot summer nights and can cater for 600 standing and 300 seated guests.
Grotta Terrace – db Seabank Resort + Spa
The Roof Top Terrace, perched on the tenth floor, spreads across the entire roof and undoubtedly offers one of most breathtaking views in Malta across Qawra Bay, St Paul’s Islands and even Gozo. The infinity pool is an eye catcher and is a wonderful location for sunset weddings and receptions. The spacious Kosy Lounge & Terrace is quite literally a room with a view. Perfectly shaped with an imposing glass dome, it overlooks the magnificent panorama of St Paul’s Bay and the islands of St Paul and Gozo. Having a contemporary, open plan design and featuring floor to ceiling glass and a breathtaking terrace, it offers a standing and a sit down capacity of 600 to 200 guests respectively. Another 200 standing guests can be accommodated on the terrace.
Wedding Pavilion – db San Antonio Hotel + Spa
The Kosy Terrace is also an ideal venue to host your wedding ceremony or renew of vows, and can host up to 100 people seated and you can also utilise this space for a stand up reception for over 200 people. The Wedding Pavilion offers facilities to host a wedding ceremony of up to 80 people with a reception area on the upper level overlooking the panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Further information
Contact the db Hotel’s Events team so they can plan your memorable day with you, as you always dreamed it to be. db Hotels + Resorts, c/o db San Antonio Hotel & Spa Triq it-Turisti | Qawra | St. Paul’s Bay Tel (+356) 2350 3750/1 Email events@dbhotelsresorts.com www.dbhotelsresorts.com
Upper Terrace – db Seabank Resort + Spa
Pool Terrace – db San Antonio Hotel + Spa
www.BridesAbroad.tv ??
A marriage Made in
Manhattan
You’ve seen it in the movies, now you too can live the dream with a New York wedding fit for a star! 46 www.BridesAbroad.com
JAVAN LIAM PHOTOGRAPHY. www.javanliam.com
Top 5 Fab Venues
1 Do you fancy a film star send off into married life like Carrie Bradshaw with a Sex and the City style glitzy ceremony? Or a lakeside setting in Central Park, in the romantic Ladies Pavilion you have seen so often in the movies, followed by a reception in one of New York’s exclusive skyscraper restaurants with panoramic city views? Perhaps you’d prefer a floating ceremony aboard the World Yacht as it sails around Manhattan taking in the city’s iconic landmarks – the possibilities for New York City weddings are endless! No wonder it is one of the most popular destinations in the world to say “I do!” Typical New York couples are sassy and sophisticated, fun-loving and more importantly they know what they want out of life. They love the hustle and bustle of the city, it’s atmosphere and of course it’s glamour. It’s the excitement that has drawn them there. So, if you are a New Yorker at heart, then the city that never sleeps is the perfect place for your destination wedding – and the amazing NYC skyline promises to make an awe-inspiring backdrop to your wedding photographs.
Film city Walk through the city streets that have been the backdrop to many blockbuster films and popular TV series including Sex and the City, Friends, When Harry Met Sally, The Wolf of Wall Street, Ted 2 and Maid in Manhattan – bump into a celebrity or two, shop in designer stores and Bloomingdales or simply enjoy a cupcake from Magnolia bakery and soak up the atmosphere.
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Central Park The most popular destination is Central Park, which captures the essence of New York, with a backdrop of the Manhattan skyline yet surrounded by acres of trees, intertwining walkways and lakes. Ladies Pavilion is the most popular location. www.tropicalsky.co.uk The View The View is New York’s only revolving rooftop restaurant and lounge, and makes a stunning wedding venue with an incredible vista. The revolving floor makes a 360° turn every hour, ensuring an ever-changing view of the New York skyline. www.theviewnyc.com World Yacht at Pier 81 You can cruise along the Hudson River, taking in Manhattan’s iconic skyline and famous landmarks while you say ‘I do’ when you charter one of World Yachts luxury cruises for an unforgettable wedding ceremony and exquisite reception on the water. www.worldyacht.com City Hall Keep it simple and tie the knot with a no-frills wedding service at The Manhattan Marriage Bureau in City Hall in the heart of Manhattan. You can obtain your marriage license quickly at self-service computer kiosks and get married for just $25. www.cityclerk.nyc.gov Hard Rock, Times Square Have a dream wedding fit for rock ‘n’ roll royalty, surrounded by awe-inspiring rock memorabilia, at the Hard Rock Café marquee overlooking Times Square, followed by champagne, chocolate covered strawberries and a light snack. www.hardrock.com/cafes/new-york
And when planning your New York City wedding, remember that anything goes here, with brides choosing everything from cheeky shorty dresses, 50’s style vintage gowns to a traditional princess style dress and grooms opting for evening dress suit rather than the traditional wedding attire. The wedding becomes a celebration of the surroundings -– the most exciting city in the world and there’s always an element of sparkle – be it a luxury limousine, a New York Cab, a Champagne toast overlooking central park, enjoying a romantic dinner cruise on the Hudson – the choice is endless. And the best bit is that a wedding in New York doesn’t have to cost the earth! Wedding packages with leading UK tour operators start from as little as £2,000.
Legal requirements If you want to marry in New York you must obtain a marriage license. The bridal couple must apply for their license by appearing together in person with valid identification, and complete their application at the Office of the City Clerk. It will be prepared while you wait, and you will take it with you when you leave. The application consists of an affidavit, listing personal details including the couple’s name, address, birthplace, date of birth, social security number (where applicable) and marital history and the couple need to make a sworn statement that there is no legal impediments to the marriage. Those who have been married before must list their prior marriages and supply their previous spouse’s full name, date the divorce was granted, place the divorce was filed and take along the final divorce decree. Widows and widowers must also provide the deceased spouse’s death certificate. www.BridesAbroad.com 47
REAL WEDDINGS
Loveinthe
BigApple
Louise and Kieran’s intimate ceremony in Central Park 48 www.BridesAbroad.com
It was love at first sight when midwife Louise Evans met Kieran Coyle, a motorsport engineer from Northern Ireland. After a long-distance romance, the couple decided to travel even further afield when they sealed their love with a romantic ceremony in the popular Ladies Pavilion wedding venue in Central Park, at the heart of New York City Finding ‘the one’ We met in England when Kieran was working under a 12-month contract not far from where my friend lived. On a night out whilst visiting my friend we met, exchanged numbers and the rest, shall we say, is history! We had a long distance relationship for 18-months as, shortly after we met, Kieran’s contract ended and he moved back to Northern Ireland. I definitely knew he was the one when we met. We had very strong feelings for each other right from the start, so I suppose it was love at first sight.
The proposal I was at home in England whilst Kieran was at home in Northern Ireland. He telephoned me and asked me over the phone to marry him. I initially thought it was a joke, but upon visiting him that weekend, he asked me again, and we went ‘ring shopping’. It was completely out of the blue, Kieran always led me to believe that he never wanted to get married. I had just accepted a new job in Northern Ireland and was working my notice at the time. So within the space of 10 weeks, I was offered a job, got engaged, moved house and country.
Location, location I unfortunately lost my dad last year and the idea of having a traditional marriage where my dad couldn’t walk me down the aisle or have a father and daughter dance was too hard to bare. Kieran also lost his mum 5-years ago, having so many key people not being able to attend our wedding made us want something a little different. It may sound bizzare, but when searching for wedding dresses I saw a photo of my dress and the couple looked as though they were walking hand in hand down a street in New York. Since seeing that photo I couldn’t get the idea out of my head. Kieran loved the idea, and I started the ball rolling. Whilst searching various companies that arrange weddings in New York I found American Sky who offered different styles of weddings. The Vintage Package they offered fitted with every dream I could have imagined. www.BridesAbroad.com 49
REAL WEDDINGS
The planning We used the services of Holly Reid at American Sky, who was extremely helpful. She then put our wedding in the hands of the amazing Josephine from I Do Weddings NYC. American Sky arranged the wedding and flights, whilst we went direct to the hotel. Before we left for New York we planned the clothing, jewellery, shoes, flowers and places to visit – but everything else was taken care of for us.
The guests We didn’t take any guests, it was just us
Getting the look My dress is a Justin Alexander, design 8465. I purchased the dress from Ultimate Dresses in Dungiven, Northern Ireland where the staff couldn’t have done enough for me. They didn’t actaully have the design in stock, so they arranged to get a sample sent over from England for me. My shoes were Badgley Mischka, in blue silk. And all of my jewellery was handmade by a company called Azure Jewellery in Cork, Ireland. I chose Chanel Chance Eau Tendre for my perfume on my wedding day.
Something Old, Something New I didn’t manage to get the entire collection, but my shoes were obviously my Something Blue, and everything else I wore on the day was Something New. I could say my husband-to-be was Something Old, but that’s a little cruel! So all I was missing was Something Borrowed.
Groomed to perfection Kieran wore a suit from Remus Umo with a blue silk tie that matched my shoes.
The details
I chose to upgrade the flowers that were a part of my wedding package and had ivory coloured peonies, Kieran had an ivory rose buttonhole. We didn’t have a cake for our wedding day.
The ceremony
The 15-minute wedding ceremony took place at Ladies Pavilion, a beautiful and
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tranquil location at the heart of Central Park, New York City. We were married by Douglas Grandgeorge.
The reception
On the evening of the wedding we had a table for two at the Riverside Café in Brooklyn – a romantic meal for just the two of us.
Photographic memories We had a photography package in with our wedding package, which I was a little sceptical about, as I like to be able to see someone’s work before booking them myself. But Jimmy Chu was amazing, we couldn’t have found a better photographer. He instantly put us at ease and was so creative in his work. We have only seen a few photos to date, but I love the photo in Times Square with everyone cheering and also a photograph of us just after the ceramony surrounded by trees, the colours in the leaves are amazing.
Magic moments I can’t honestly pick a single memory out, the whole day from start to finish was just
perfect. An open top bus passing by and everyone cheering soon cured my fears of being the centre of attention, and trying to put my new husbands wedding band on – the heat had made his fingers swell, so it was a little tight! I probably should have tested my shoes a little more before the big day, but a few blisters are nothing when our day was so perfect.
On budget? We stayed in New York for a full week. Our wedding and honeymoon cost approximately £7,500, well worth it, and we didn’thave a budget.
Further information WEDDING PLANNER UK Holly Reid, American Sky. www.americansky.co.uk/weddings Tel: 01342 887320 WEDDING PLANNER USA: Josephine Ruggiero, I Do Weddings NYC WEDDING VENUE Ladies Pavilon Central Park, New York PHOTOGRAPHY Jimmy Chu Photography www.jimmychuphotography.com
Make memories last forever
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REAL WEDDINGS
Dancingin
NewYorkCity
Julie and Adam say “I do” in New York City 52 www.BridesAbroad.com
Julie Ana Tazey and Adam Lyons danced into each other’s arms at a Salsa class in their hometown of Manchester and instantly fell in love. It wasn’t long before they were dancing in the streets of New York to celebrate tying the knot in the city that never sleeps Finding ‘the one’ We met at a Salsa dancing class in Manchester’s Copacabana nightclub. It was definitely love at first sight.
The proposal He didn’t actually propose to me!
Location, location We have family all over the place so it was a difficult wedding to organise. We wanted it to be completly stress-free. We chose New York City as we had both wanted to see New York and it was the most convenient option that would fit our plans perfectly.
The planning We used the services of Tropical Sky to plan the wedding, in conjunction with American Sky. They were extremely helpful with all the arrangements. We couldn’t fault the service and attention we received. We felt we were really looked after. The only planning we did ourselves was picking the hotels and organising our outfits. It was great!
Guests We didn’t take any guests with us. It was just the two of us.
Getting the look My dress was from Monsoon Bridal, and cost £150. My theme was to try and find something flattering on my ‘baby bump’. The shoes were from Next and cost £38. I did my own hair and makeup – I was in a bit of a panic about that half an hour before being picked up, but it looked ine in the end.
Something Old, Something New My Something Old were my old gold earrings that I had since I was a year old. The shoes and necklace were ‘New’, my Something Blue was the blue ribbon on my garter, and my Something Borrowed was Adam’s St Christopher charm, which I pinned into my dress. www.BridesAbroad.com 53
REAL WEDDINGS
Groomed to perfection Adam wore a Hugo Boss black classic suit, the tie was the one his father wore on his wedding day. He also wore Hugo Boss shoes and belt and a crisp white cotton shirt from Flanells. As a tribute to our dogs, that we lost recently, he also wore a set of silver English Bull Terrier cufflinks so we could have them ‘with us’.
The details For my flowers, I chose simple white roses. For our wedding ‘cake’ we had a complimentary sorbet with our wedding lunch at Robert Columbus Circle.
The ceremony Our wedding ceremony took place at the All Souls Unitarian Church. It was just the two of us, and the simple ceremony lasted around eight minutes.
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T
ransform the wedding of your dreams into reality that’s what “we do”.
When it comes to saying “I do”, couples can’t find a more romantic destination than The Racha on Racha Yai – one of the Andaman Sea’s most beautiful island resorts. Whether it’s a simple barefoot beachfront ceremony for two or a grand affair, the resort’s enthusiastic and dedicated wedding consultants plan every event to its last detail – from luxurious award-winning* accommodations to the intricate touches on a wedding cake. It’s no wonder that so many honeymoon and wedding couples choose to celebrate at The Racha. accessible only by sea, the racha is located twelve nautical miles from phuket.
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REAL WEDDINGS
The reception
Magic moments
We didn’t have a reception as such, as it was just the two of us on our wedding day – so we had a surprise reception for all our friends and family when we returned home – my sister-in-law had organised a BBQ in the garden, which was really lovely. In New York we had lunch at a restaurant in the city after the service, which had been recommended by both our wedding planner and hotel concierge. The restaurant had a great view and excellent food, though on hindsight we may have preferred somewhere a bit cosier as it was very modern.
Looking back on our day, we really enjoyed doing the photoshoot, but saying “I do” was at the top of our list of wonderful memories. There were a few points that we would have changed if we could – one was Adam’s shoes! He was in so much pain as they had not been worn in. And I should’ve left myself with more time to get ready as I was in a bit of a panic.
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The honeymoon We actually had our honeymoon before our wedding. We flew to Orlando and
drove to Miami in a Mustang convertible, then down to Key West, where we stayed at the Wardorf Casa Marina, which was really nice, before flying to New York City.
On budget? We spent around £5,000 on the whole trip – we had definitely under-budgeted for spending money.
Further information WEDDING PLANNING www.tropicalsky.co.uk Tel : 01342 886571
Tailor made honeymoons, weddings and private retreats, with nothing but the best in service and romantic ambiences. ATOL protected
Pure Zanzibar The World’s Leading Zanzibar Specialists
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IT’S SNOW TIME!
From cosy Alpine chalets on snow kissed mountain peaks and Arctic winter wonderlands to icehotels made entirely from ice and snow, we discover the perfect destinations for winter weddings, guaranteed to offer a generous helping of the white stuff! 58 www.BridesAbroad.com
Not all couples choosing to marry abroad want a toes-in-the-sand ceremony on a tropical beach – some prefer the idea of a cool white wedding in a spectacular snowy location. If you want the romance of a sparkling winter wonderland wedding, the choice is wider than you think! Say ‘I do” on a snowy mountain summit, in an amazing ICE HOTEL or treat your guests to an awesome display of the Northern Lights in the Arctic Circle. The possibilities are endless, and most definitely all have the wow factor!
Alps, Dolomites and Rockies
If you want to feel literally at the top of the world when you marry then head to the European Alps or Italian Domomites for the wedding of your dreams – perfect for ski enthusiasts and those wanting fresh mountain air and spectacular views on their Big Day, and not far away, so guests, especially lovers of winter sports, will be happy to join you to celebrate your wedding. Alternatively, if you prefer to travel long-haul to your destination wedding, then you can tie the knot at Lake Louise in the Canadian Rockies. This majestic UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most romantic places in the world, so how about saying, “I do” on the ski hill facing frozen Lake Louise? Or head to Banff, another stunning setting in the Canadian Rockies, and enjoy a breathtaking setting for your ceremony by Bow Falls with incredible views of the Rockies.
Spectacular Northern Lights
You won’t need to pay for a firework display to wow your guests if you are lucky enough to see the Aurora Borealis – when Mother Nature lights the sky with her own dazzling display of vibrant colours. So head to the Arctic Circle, to Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland and even further afield to Quebec in Canada. Chilled couples will have the coolest of all weddings if they opt to stay in an Ice Hotel, where they can treat their guests to a warm welcome in sub-zero temperatures and enjoy an incredible setting that will ensure their wedding day is truly unforgettable! They can tie the knot in the hotel itself, with its pure ice statues and glass chandeliers, or in the amazing Ice Chapels that are built entirely of snow and ice.
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Mountain Tops AUSTRIA
Sportkristall – Kaprun
FRANCE
Tie the knot in the Austrian Alps with a mountain top blessing – you can hire a decorated cable car exclusively for your wedding party through wedding planners Austrian Wedding. Alternatively the company can arrange your wedding at the charming 4-star SportKristall hotel, which offers exclusive wedding packages. The hotel nestles close to the ski lifts in the romantic village of Kaprun, so it’s the perfect choice for ski-enthusiasts. www.austrian-wedding.com; www.sport-kristall.at
Chilly Powder Morzine Morzine, in the heart of the vast Portes du Soleil ski area, makes the perfect setting for Alpine weddings. Hold your wedding ceremony at the charming Chilly Powder chalet hotel, which offers a number of romantic locations within the hotel – from indoors around a large roaring fire to the sun terrace and snow-covered lawns with mountain backdrop. The pistes descend straight into the hotel gardens providing ski-in-ski-out access to the mountains. www.chillypowder.com
CANADA
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
ITALY
Cristallo Hotel Spa& Golf, Cortina The sparkling snowy scenes and old-school glamour of the 5-star Cristallo Hotel Spa & Golf in the picturesque Italian Dolomites mountain town of Cortina d’Ampezzo, is a perfect setting for enchanting mountain weddings. The hotel offers glistening mountain views, charming accommodation and a choice of spectacular wedding venues. Vows can be exchanged on the hotel’s terrace or garden or in the Gustavo III Hall surrounded by effortlessly elegant décor. www.cristallo.it
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Right in the heartland of Canadian skiing territory, this fairytale hotel in Banff, Alberta is snow-covered during the winter months, ensuring a white wedding on your big day. After you’ve tied the knot you can zip off to the local ice rink for a romantic night of skatng, while sleigh rides and snowboarding sessions are also available. www.fairmont.com/lake-louise
Winter Wonderland QUEBEC
Hotel De Glace For the coolest wedding in Canada, the Hotel de Glace in Quebec will give you and your wedding guests the warmest of welcomes. This magnificent structure boasts snow vaults and ice sculptures, providing an atmospheric and unique location for your nuptials. Couples can have an awesome ceremony in the beauty and splendor of the Hotel de Glace Chapel, where you can walk down the aisle on a red carpet to say “I do” at an ice alter. www.hoteldeglaceccanada.com
SWEDEN
The Ice Hotel Jukkasjarvi Set in the gorgeous Arctic town of Jukkasjarvi, the ICEHOTEL is made entirely from ice and contains a spectacular ICE CHAPEL which is a breathtaking venue to tie the knot, plus an ICEBAR and chance to spend your wedding night sleeping on a bed of ice, covered in furs. Each winter the hotel is re-built from scratch – so you know your wedding will be truly unique. www.icehotel.com
FINLAND
Kakslauttanen In its winter wonderland setting in the Arctic Circle, this charming Finnish town is picture-perfect with fabulous wedding chapels. Stay in a glass igloo at Igloo Village, which offers a view of the snow outside from the warmth and comfort of a heated cabin. To make your big day extra special, at the Kakslauttanen Hotel your blushing bride can even be taken down the aisle on a reindeer! www.kakslauttanen.fi
ICELAND
Reykjavik
Iceland is one of the best places on earth to view the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) in its full splendor, and the luxury Hotel Ranga, set in panoramic scenery on the banks of the river Ranga, is the perfect vantage point. Just an hour away from Reykjavik, the hotel offers a choice of wedding venues, including a pretty nearby church and two waterfalls – absolutely ideal for a white wedding! www.hotelrangaa.is
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Advertising Feature
WHITE HOT HONEYMOONS AT W VERBIER
At the fabulous W Verbier, tucked away in the Swiss Alps, you will enter an extraordinary world where winters are always white hot and summers always keep things cool. Whatever time of year you plan your honeymoon W Verbier is ready to excite and delight you
Feel the adrenaline rush of Europe’s most exciting slopes, electrifying vistas and glamorous nights in the glitzy Swiss ski resort of Verbier. The resort offers extensive activities for thrill-seeking couples who are winter sports enthusiasts as well as those who prefer summer mountain pursuits, including hiking and exploring the Swiss Alps by mountain bike. Throughout the year, visitors can also spend relaxed afternoons shopping for the latest designer fashions whilst after nightfall the Alps’ hottest club and bar scene awaits. At W Hotels’ first Alpine escape, newlywed ski-enthusiasts can get set for slopeside style in Place Blanche, the new heart of Verbier. Action packed days mirror energy fuelled nights at the stunningly chic W Verbier ski resort hotel – one of only five hotels in Verbier with ski in/ski out access. W Verbier is a fabulous retreat from the everyday hustle and bustle of Verbier, and is a luxurious haven to get cozy and celebrate your first days of married life together.
Luxurious accommodation
The interior design is daring – local materials like wood and stone are remixed in modern, W Hotels’ style to create spectacular spaces. Top-level accommodation is offered in 123 rooms and suites and four W Residences, each with signature W beds and balcony. All rooms guarantee a spectacular stay featuring state-of-the-art technology and endless mountain views, many with panoramic vistas.
Wining & dining
Experience delicious gastronomy with modern local cuisine in the Swiss-style restaurant W KITCHEN; Savour Japanese delights in the playful CARVE Sushi Bar; Enjoy interactive fun in a Spanish-style setting in Sergi Arola’s EAT-HOLA – Verbier’s first tapas-bar, where you can watch the chefs in action as they prepare your favourites.
Pre & apres skiing
Jump-start your day as you mean to go on with morning coffee and a tasty pastry in W CAFÉ then reward your day’s skiing with an après-ski drink to DJ beats in W OFF PISTE followed by cocktails customized by the hotel’s mixologists in W LIVING ROOM against a backdrop of glorious sunsets observed from its panoramic terrace.
Recharge in the spa
Treat yourselves to a pampering session at the AWAY® Spa, and keep in shape for the slopes in the fully-equipped FIT Fitness Center where you can boost your fitness level further with yoga and pilates classes or with a refreshing dip in the WET® Pool.
Weddings
W Verbier offers a range of beautifully designed venues with stateof-the-art facilities and awe-inspiring mountain views, which are perfect spaces for your wedding reception. They will host anything from intimate cocktail celebrations to grand scale events – each of their three rooms, or the combination of the three, will set the mood and atmosphere for your gathering.
Further information W Verbier Rue de Médran 70, 1936 Bagnes, Switzerland Phone: 00 41 27 472 88 88 www.wverbier.com
REAL WEDDINGS
Cool as ICE
Adam and Carly’s frosty reception in Sweden 64 www.BridesAbroad.com
When letting agent Carly Seymour and Adam Start from North Warnborough, Hampshire, decided to tie the knot, they chose the ICEHOTEL in Sweden for a wedding that was a seriously chilled affair Finding ‘the one’ We first met when Adam came into the property letting agency where I worked and I showed him around a house on a Friday, and by the following Monday Adam had asked me out for dinner! That first date was the start of what is now coming up to a nineyear relationship, sealed by our wedding ceremony at the famous ICEHOTEL in Sweden. When I saw Adam that first time it was definitely love at first sight!
The proposal Adam proposed during a weekend spa break at Champneys Health Resort. After dinner we went for an evening stroll around the lake in the resort’s grounds. There was a full moon that night, it was very romantic. Then he took me completely by surprise and popped the question by the lake!
Location, location When we decided to get married we wanted something unique and memorable, we are not very traditional, and doing it this way was a lot easier to manage than a full-scale family wedding. We knew we wanted to see the Northern Lights, and we had seen documentaries on the ICEHOTEL so, to be honest, we made our mind up within about five minutes of giving it serious thought.
The planning We didn’t have a wedding planner, but the arrangements were handled by Discover the World in the UK, and in Sweden by the local lady who actually married us – she made sure we got to the Registry Office in the morning, and then conducted the ceremony in the main corridor of the ICEHOTEL in the afternoon. Our travel company, Discover the World, were very helpful with all the arrangements. It was one of the easiest holidays we have ever planned, let alone the fact that we had a wedding on top of that. We had excellent help building the comprehensive itinerary for our stay, and everything went 100 per cent according to plan. Honestly, it could not have gone any better! It really didn’t take a huge amount of planning – a few calls with the rep at Discover the World, and a couple of emails later we were done!
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REAL WEDDINGS
The guests We went alone! Just the two of us.
Getting the look I wore a strapless, floor length ivory gown with a white faux fur jacket with fingerless gloves. On my feet I wore pretty ballet-type shoes, but changed into snow boots for the photos before my feet froze! I also wore a bracelet that I bought from the Ice Hotel gift shop and a wedding ring and earrings made especially for the big day by my friend. I did my own hair and makeup.
Something old, something new For my Something Old I wore an old necklace, my Something New was the ICE HOTEL bracelet, Something Borrowed was my fur jacket and for the Something Blue – my lips definitely ticked that box!
Groomed to perfection Adam wore a Jaegar suit with a couple of unusual additions – namely his thermal ski boots and a thermal vest – well it was minus eight degrees in the ICEHOTEL!
The details Given that the temperature in the ICEHOTEL is so cold, flowers don’t tend to last that long, and we knew that the total length of the wedding and the photos after would be 2-3 hours. As such, I made my own flowers using artificial lilies with a ribbon to match Adam’s tie. The photos prove that this was a good decision! We didn’t have a cake, in fact, after we were done with the photos, we had Vodka shots in the Ice Bar and then went back to our room to change before going for some dinner at the ICEHOTEL restaurant.
The ceremony As we were having a civil ceremony, which precluded us from using the Ice Chapel, we chose to get married at the end of the main corridor in front of the Ice-Brick window. This gave us an
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excellent backdrop, and a view right down through the main corridor as we were married. It was just amazing. The ceremony lasted around 20 minutes. The local lady who married us does all the ICEHOTEL weddings. She was lovely and wore a traditional robe for the wedding, and after the ceremony finished, she presented us with homemade candles, which is a Swedish tradition. We didn’t have any guests, and nobody ‘gave me away’ but we did have an audience of around 40 complete strangers (some we had met on the plane and on excursions and others who were on day visits to the ICEHOTEL) who let out an enormous cheer as the ceremony finished! As we were married during the day, the ICEHOTEL, which is open just for guests at night, was open to the public. We were a bit unsure about how this would play out, but in fact, it really compensated for not having our families and our daughter there – and we felt like celebrities with our photos being taken by so many people.
The reception We didn’t have a reception. We wanted privacy after the wedding, and as we had no guests, we simply went for a meal. We ate a traditional Swedish buffet with wine, and then took a stroll around the
complex under the clear skies. We saw more stars than I have ever seen before.
Photographic memories The photos were taken by a local guy called Kent Tunlind with his wife as the lighting assistant. It took around two hours to get all the photos done, as it was so cold in the ICEHOTEL, and I wanted to take my jacket off for a lot of the photos, so we had to keep going inside to the warm fire in an adjacent building to warm up every 20 minutes. It was an interesting experience for sure, and well worth a few chattering teeth! Our favourite photo is one of the two of us lying on our front in the Art Suite Room where we stayed in on our first night. We like this because the Art Suites are special one-off rooms that only a few people will ever stay in, so the combination of us dressed up and in the room we slept in makes that particular photo very special to us.
Magic moments Our best memory (other than the actual wedding ceremony itself) was the night before the wedding when we went on an expedition using snowmobiles, up onto a mountain where we watched the Northern Lights above us and then
made our way to traditional huts with a log fire in the centre where 12 of us sat around the edge, watching our guide cook traditional Swedish fayre to warm us – including Moose Soup (which was very nice!). The funniest memory was when Adam went on a husky ride – so glad he had two people in front of him to hide behind, as 12 huskies create quite a constant and large amount of gas!
On budget? All in, with expeditions, Art Suite upgrade, wedding costs etc, it cost us around £8K, It was certainly a lot cheaper than it would have been to get married in the UK and then go on a honeymoon, so this option most probably saved us a fortune!
Further information WEDDING PLANNER UK Discover The World Tel: 01737 218 800 Email: weddings@discover-the-world.co.uk www.discover-the-world.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHY Kent Tunlind
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Carlton, Goole DN14 9LZ, 1-4pm, Free Entry
Wednesday, 9 -10pm Everyone welcome… including Brides, Grooms, Suppliers & Venues all over the World!
21st Oct 2017 - Wakefield Cathedral Northgate, Wakefield WF1 1HG, 11-4pm, Free Entry
‘Your Inspiration, Our Passion…’
Fashion
70 Show a leg!
We showcase the latest trends in Bridal gowns, with high-leg splits to wow your quests
72 Get the look – Garden Wedding
Beautiful wedding gowns and accessories for garden weddings amidst the flowers
73 Get the look – City style
Stylish looks for sophisticated city weddings
74 Get the look – Ice Queen
The coolest gowns and accessories for winter brides
www.BridesAbroad.com 69
Dress by Sarah Seven, style Lourdes www.sarahseven.com
Showaleg! Be bang on trend this season with the very latest styles on your big day – we are loving the high-leg split gowns that will give your look the wow factor – we say if you’ve got it, flaunt it!
Dress by Idan www.idancoheCohen n.net
Dress by Pronovias, style Nuria www.pronovias.com 70 www.BridesAbroad.com
Dress by Pronovias, style Nenufar www.pronovias.com
Hen Dress by Nuerint .com www.nurit-h
Dress by Gemy Maalouf, style 4819 www.gemymaalouf.com
Dress by Allure Bridals www.allurebridals.com
Dress by Galia Lahav, style www.galialahav.co.uk Flavia www.BridesAbroad.com 71
Appleblossom tiara, £135 www.ivoryandcotiaras.co.uk
Get the look
Garden
Floral hairpiece www.lilly.eu
Wedding
Floral earrings by Lilly www.lilly.eu
Brides marrying amongst the flowers in their hotel gardens will look pretty as a picture in floaty gowns adorned with floral accessories for Boho chic Bracelet, £50 www.ivoryandcotriaras.co.uk
Flower earrings, £3,870 www.davidmarshalllondon.com
Floral necklace www.lilly.eu
Annemarie silk bouquet, £94.99 www.silkblooms.co.uk
Bag, £42 www.east.co.uk
Floral’barefoot’ sandals, style 0526 www.ladybird.nl 72 www.BridesAbroad.com
Ring, £40 www.lustrousjewellery.com
Dress by Ladybird, style 3273 www.ladybird.nl
Silk table flowers, £55 www.kellyhoppen.com
Get the look
City Style Look chic and glamorous at your wedding in the city, with metallic accessories adding a contemporary twist to your theme
Bouquet, £78.65 www.sarahsflowers.co.uk
Headdress, style Lisette, £155 www.ivoryandcotiaras.co.uk Earrings by River Island www.riverisland.com
Bracelet, £75 www.follifollie.co.uk
Bracelet, £11.00 www.Bonprix.co.uk
Silver bag, £150 www.follifollie.co.uk Silver shoe, £120 www.tedbaker.com
Sunglasses by Kate Spade, £130 www.sunglasses-shop.co.uk
Dress by Nurit-Hen www.nurit-hen.com
www.BridesAbroad.com 73
Get the look
Ice Queen
Tiara, style Romanov, £105 www.ivoryandcotiaras.co.uk
Crystal Necklace, www.lilly.eu
Look cool and trendy, but stay warm and cosy at your winter wedding in the snow
Crystal Earrings www.lilly.eu
Winter teardrop shower bouquet, £222.50 www.debbiecarlistle.com
Bridal jacket, style Starla www.quianabridal.co.uk
Faux fur wrap, £69 www.monsoon.co.uk Bag, £29 www.accessorize.com
Snow boots, style Morgana Brae, £237 www.olang.co.uk 74 www.BridesAbroad.com
Dress by Quiana bridal, style Grace www.quianabridal.co.uk
Planning Guide
76 Weather permitting
Don’t let your wedding day be a washout – check our worldwide weather guide for the sunniest beaches, snowiest peaks and perfect temperatures
80 Pop the Question 82 Wedding Insurance – do I really need it?
Expert wedding planners answer your most frequently asked questions You’ve invested your time and money into your big day, so ensure that you are covered should anything go wrong with your plans
84 5 Hen party tips 86 West End Hens 88 Glitzy hens at Park Lane Marriott Our guide to trouble-free hen-do’s
Hit the bright lights of London with your hens and party like celebrities Where better to treat your favourite girls to pampering and luxury than at one of London’s most plush hotels?
90 Theatre review – Motown the Musical
Take your hen party to theatreland in London’s West End and sing along to the ultimate musical extravaganza
92 The professional touch
Why take on the stress of planning your own wedding when you can leave it to the experts to co-ordinate your big day?
94 Ask the planners
Professional wedding planner, Lisa Burton, of the Bridal Consultants shares her wisdom and experience with brides-to-be www.BridesAbroad.com 75
January
February
Caribbean, Australia, Dubai, Hawaii, Maldives, SriMalaysia, Lanka, Malaysia Mexico, Mexico, Thailand,Thailand, Sri Lanka, Canary Islands
Caribbean, Australia, Dubai, Hawaii, Maldives, SriMalaysia, Lanka, Malaysia Mexico, Mexico, Thailand,Thailand, Sri Lanka, Canary Islands
Hot spots
Cool and chilled
Hot spots
Cool and chilled
European Alps, Iceland, Scandinavia, Colorado USA, Canadian Rockies, Quebec
European Alps, Iceland, Scandinavia, Canadian Rockies, Quebec, Colorado USA
Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, Morocco, New Zealand, Vietnam, Abu Dhabi
Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, Morocco, New Zealand, Vietnam
Something different Jungle & Safari
South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Costa Rica
Avoid
Something different Jungle & Safari
South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Costa Rica
Avoid
Bali and Indonesia, India, French Polynesia, Fiji
Bali and Indonesia, India, Seychelles, Mauritius, French Polynesia, Fiji
March
April
Hot spots
Caribbean, Australia, Dubai, Hawaii, Maldives, Caribbean, Australia, Dubai, Hawaii, Maldives, Mexico, Thailand,Sri SriLanka, Lanka,Malaysia, Malaysia Canary Islands Mexico, Thailand,
Cool and chilled
Hot spots
Caribbean, Australia, Dubai, Hawaii, Maldives, Mexico, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Bali
Cool and chilled
European Alps, Iceland, Scandinavia, Canadian Rockies, Quebec, Colorado USA
European Alps, Iceland, Scandinavia, Canadian Rockies, Quebec, Colorado USA
Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, Morocco, New Zealand, Vietnam
Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, Morocco, New Zealand, Vietnam, Abu Dhabi
Belize, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Costa Rica
Belize, South Africa, Zambia, Botswana, Borneo
Something different Jungle & Safari Avoid
Bali and Indonesia, Seychelles, Mauritius, French Polynesia, Fiji
Something different Jungle & Safari Avoid
India, Mauritius, Zanzibar, French Polynesia, Fiji
rg e h t ttin a Weermi p
May
Hot spots
June
Hot spots
Europe, Dubai, USA, Hawaii, Mauritius, Mexico, Seychelles, Bali
Europe, Bali, Mauritius, Seychelles, Zanzibar, French Polynesia, Malaysia, Hawaii, Fiji
Cool and chilled
Cool and chilled
Alaska, Iceland, Chile
Something different
Egypt, Hong Kong, India, Morocco, Brazil
Jungle & Safari
Belize, Borneo, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia
Avoid
Argentina, Chile, New Zealand
Something different
Scandinavia, Peru, Hong Kong, Scotland, Ireland
Jungle & Safari
Borneo, Botswana, Tanzania, Zambia
Avoid
Maldives, Sri Lanka, Zanzibar, Kenya, Vietnam, French Polynesia
Maldives, Thailand, Dubai, Egypt, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Australia
July
August
Europe, USA, Bali, Mauritius, Seychelles, Zanzibar, French Polynesia, Malaysia, Hawaii, Fiji
Europe, USA, Bali, Mauritius, Seychelles, Zanzibar, French Polynesia, Hawaii, Fiji
Cool and chilled
Cool and chilled
Hot spots
Argentina, Chile, New Zealand
Something different
Hot spots
Argentina, Chile, New Zealand
Something different
Peru, Scandinavia, Japan, Ireland, Russia
Peru, Scandinavia, Japan, Ireland, Russia
Jungle & Safari
Jungle & Safari
Borneo, Botswana, Tanzania, Zambia
Borneo, Botswana, Tanzania, Zambia
Avoid
Avoid
Maldives, Thailand, Dubai, Egypt, Vietnam, South Africa, Australia, Sri Lanka, Morocco
Caribbean, Maldives, Thailand, Dubai, Egypt, Morocco, Vietnam, Australia, Sri Lanka, South Africa
September
October
Europe, USA, Bali, Mauritius, Seychelles, Zanzibar, Hawaii, Fiji, French Polynesia
Europe, USA, Bali, Mauritius, Seychelles, Zanzibar, Maldives, Fiji, Dubai
Argentina, Chile, New Zealand
Canada, Scandinavia
Hot spots
Hot spots
Cool and chilled
Cool and chilled
Something different
Something different
Jungle & Safari
Jungle & Safari
Japan, Morocco, Egypt, India
Borneo, Botswana, Tanzania, Zambia
Avoid
Caribbean, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam
Japan, Egypt, Morocco
Belize, Borneo, Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, South Africa
Avoid
Caribbean, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, French Polynesia
November
December
Caribbean, Australia, Brazil, Hawaii, Maldives, Thailand, Florida USA, Dubai
Caribbean, Australia, Brazil, Hawaii, Maldives, SriFlorida Lanka,USA, Florida USA,Canary Dubai Islands Thailand,Thailand, Sri Lanka, Dubai,
Hot spots
Cool and chilled
Hot spots
Cool and chilled
European Alps, Canadian Rockies, Colorado USA, Scandinavia, Iceland
European Alps, Canadian Rockies, Colorado USA, Scandinavia, Iceland
Japan, Egypt, Morocco, Vietnam
Japan, Egypt, Morocco, Vietnam
Something different Jungle & Safari
Belize, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Costa Rica
Avoid
Seychelles, Mauritius, Zanzibar, Fiji, French Polynesia, Bali, Borneo, India, Sri Lanka
Something different Jungle & Safari
Belize, Costa Rica, Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa
Avoid
Seychelles, Mauritius, Zanzibar, Fiji, Bali, Borneo, India, French Polynesia
When will I receive my Marriage Certificate?
It will either be handed to you at the resort or sent via registered post to your home address. Don't panic if it takes a while to arrive – this is normal, especially if you marry in Jamaica where it can take up to 12 months! If you get married in certain countries, like Mexico and the Dominican Republic it will need to be translated, which will cause extra delay. For more information visit direct.gov.uk and search under passports.
The ceremony… Can we invite guests to our wedding?
Of course! Some hotels even offer reduced rate weddings for more than four guests. Remember to order extras for your guests, such as more wine, a larger wedding cake or extra buttonholes. If the wedding couple is staying at an All Inclusive resort, they will need to buy oneday passes for guests staying at other hotels, and in adults-only resorts you will need to ask special permission for children to attend the wedding on a day pass. All this can be organised at the resort by your wedding planner.
When do I meet the resort's wedding planner?
One to three days after your arrival at your resort. Your wedding planner will sort out the fine details of your wedding, from Champagne to the icing on your cake, and check your documentation so that you can relax as the arrangements are done on your behalf. Once the local registrar is happy your paperwork is in order, your wedding planner will give you a date and time for the ceremony and send out invitations to your guests.
Where will our ceremony take place?
The hotel wedding planner will show you the locations to choose from – usually in the gardens of your hotel, or in a decorated wedding pavilion. If you are marrying in Europe you may choose to exchange vows in the local church or town hall, or in Las Vegas, a wedding chapel. The hotel wedding co-ordinator will show you the locations to choose from. It's unusual to have a ceremony on the beach, but many couples take beach photographs after the ceremony.
Who will be at the ceremony?
Most overseas weddings are civil ceremonies, in the style of registry office services, unless a religious ceremony has
been pre-arranged. The ceremony will be conducted by a Judge, Celebrant, Minister or Registrar. You will need two to four witnesses, who could be anyone from your wedding guests to people you have met on the beach the previous day. Your wedding planner will be there too, to ensure your day goes without a hitch.
The important bits… How should I transport my wedding dress?
We recommend wedding outfits should be packed in a hard suitcase or strong box, as they will be placed in the hold of the plane. It might be an idea to contact your airline for more information. Generally, there is no extra baggage allowance for wedding outfits. You can also take out extra insurance to cover the transportation of your dress.
Can I choose my flowers?
Absolutely! At the resort, your wedding planner will show you photos of bouquets for you to make a selection. Your wedding bouquet and his buttonhole are included in your wedding package, but extra flowers and buttonholes can be ordered for guests and bridesmaids.
What about the music?
You can request whatever music you prefer and it will be arranged for you – from a DJ playing your favourite songs to calypso bands. If you prefer you can pack a CD with your chosen musical selection, which can be played at your wedding.
Will I have a cake?
A wedding cake is included in wedding packages; this is usually a sponge cake with white icing. You can add your own decorations, and even arrange for an upgraded cake. Sandals Resorts offer a
choice of themed weddings, which feature colour-co-ordinated cakes to match the chosen wedding palette.
Who will take care of my hair and makeup?
Every bride wants to look her best and fortunately many hotels have hair and beauty services with makeup artists on hand. Even if they don't, your wedding planner can arrange for experts to come to the hotel.
Can I arrange for a good wedding photographer?
At your pre-wedding meeting, your wedding planner will show you examples of local photographers work so that you can choose the style that suits you best. Your video can also be arranged when you get to the resort. Photographer and DVD are usually at extra cost; they are rarely included in your wedding package.
What about the wedding dinner?
If you have a group of guests at your wedding, a gala dinner is usually arranged as part of your wedding package. If it's just the two of you, your wedding planner will arrange a candle-lit dinner for two in a romantic location.
We want friends and family at the ceremony but can we be alone for our honeymoon?
Absolutely. Simply ask your guests to stay at a different hotel close by, or transfer to another hotel after the ceremony.
And finally… How can I find out more?
Speak to Brides Abroad’s Wedding Planning Team on 0800 211 8255.
WEDDING INSURANCE Do I really need it?
You’ve planned your wedding, sorted out your budget, the enormity of your big day is building up and chances are, it will be perfect – but what happens if things go wrong? Don’t cross your fingers and hope for the best, take out wedding insurance! Brides and grooms often get carried away with the excitement of planning their wedding and fail to consider what would happen if the venue is double booked, the wedding outfits are damaged in transit or worse still it has to be cancelled for reasons that are beyond your control. According to Compareweddinginsurane.org the importance of being covered by insurance against potential disaster, however small, should not be overlooked when making your wedding plans. Wedding insurance will cover you financially against any of the things that can go wrong and spoil your day. Don’t you think you owe it to yourselves to get full insurance cover for your peace of mind, especially when saying “I do” overseas. When you marry abroad, you have the added stress of you and your family and friends travelling to your chosen venue and all the problems that can bring. Your travel insurance will offer compensation if things go wrong with your travel and accommodation plans, but for all the other details of your wedding you need to check what is covered and what is not. If you pay for certain items by credit card you should have a certain amount of protection by claiming back from your credit card supplier if things goes wrong – this covers goods or deposits costing between £100 and £30,000, using section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act (including problems constituting a breach of contract, including your wedding venue being double booked or your entertainment not showing up). But relying on credit card protection alone is a risk. For total peace of mind you need a comprehensive insurance policy covering you for every eventuality. 82 www.BridesAbroad.com
Stand Alone Wedding Insurance You need to find a Wedding Insurance policy that offers extended cover for an overseas wedding. A typical Wedding Insurance cover will protect you against the cancellation or re-arrangement of a wedding due to accident, illness or bereavement within the main wedding party, or if one of your suppliers goes bust. They usually protect you also against loss or damage to the main wedding outfits, presents, rings, cake, flowers, wedding transport and photography as well as personal liability and legal expense. Do, however, check the small print to establish what is covered and what is not and take out the right level of cover for your wedding – don’t be tempted by cheaper policies if it leaves you with insufficient cover should anything go wrong. You won’t be covered if either partner changes their mind, or if you can’t afford to go ahead with your wedding plans. Honeymoons also are not covered as standard either, though some companies will extend the policy to cover your honeymoon. If not, a Travel Insurance policy will cover honeymoons, including annual multi-trip insurance policies.
Buying your wedding insurance policy When should you take out your wedding insurance? You can take out cover up to two years before your big day, and some insurers will even allow you to buy cover up to the day before your wedding. Prices vary – from as little as £30 to more than £200 for comprehensive cover. Before you take the policy out you need to carefully work out how much you plan to spend, then find a policy that covers everything.
5 HEN PARTY TIPS The Brides Abroad guide to arranging the perfect Hen Do
Whether you’re the bride to be or have been charged with organising her send-off, there are plenty of hitches that can come with arranging a hen do to remember – from collecting money to flaky friends and travel troubles – you name it! So to help make your hen do hassle free, here are five simple ideas that you’ll love…
1. Money matters One of the most awkward elements of organising a hen do is, unsurprisingly, chasing people for money! Asking for cash can be tricky at the best of times, let alone when you have a million and one other things to consider to make the event super special. Using moneypooling platforms such as Leetchi.com, every guest can contribute what they need to without anyone having to take the hit of a big cost upfront! You can also monitor the status of your online money pot and see who has paid up already!
2. Getting the numbers Flaky friends can become a total nightmare when it comes to hen do organisation. Knowing how many people are attending is essential to working out costs for your special celebration! In the digital age it seems we’re never switched off from emails, so why not try sending a beautifully designed e-invitation through the likes of Paperless Post. With just a click guests can RSVP, making figuring out who’s coming easier than ever!
84 www.BridesAbroad.com
3. Ditch the boozing A boozy night on the town isn’t for everyone, and the idea of spending a weekend hungover can be stressful for a bride with lots on her mind already. Ditch the tacky club night and penis paraphernalia for a relaxing, healthy yoga retreat instead. Unearth Yoga have some great options that you can tailor to your needs. Namaste.
4. Travel plans Getting everyone together from different parts of the country can be tough, especially if you don’t want to put people out of pocket! Encourage people who live in the same area to carpool using Zipcar. It will help avoid costly train tickets and is flexible too!
5. Get the party started Just because everyone on the guest list is loved by the bride-to-be, doesn’t mean you all necessarily know each other. There’s nothing like a few glasses of Prosecco to break the ice, but you could also use hitched.co.uk’s bridal shower games to get people talking! You may find out a new thing or two about the hen and there’ll be new friendships blossoming in no time.
West End Hens Planning a stylish hen weekend for your favourite girls? Then treat them like celebrities with a trip to London’s West End and paint the town red for the ultimate hen party!
Think shopping, a West End show, cocktails, fine dining, clubbing and lashings of sophisticated bonding – all on your hotel doorstep! If this sounds just up your street, then head to the bright lights of London with your hens and check into one of the plushest hotels in the city for an unashamedly glamorous weekend 86
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Stay stylishly central Choose an uber chic hotel, as close to the action as you can get and live like stars during your stay. We recommend the elegantly stylish Marriott London Park Lane hotel (see page 88), from where you can stroll to all the A-list places you’ll want to visit, including the designer shops and department stores of Oxford St, Regent St and New Bond Street and you can hop on a bus, take a tube or a short cab drive to London’s theatreland, and the trendy cafes, restaurants and bars of Soho and Covent Garden.
Shop till you drop It has to be said that the West End of London is shopaholic’s heaven – from the designer labels and galleries on South Molton Street and Bond Street, where it helps to have deep pockets – Ralph Lauren, Browns, Chanel, Cartier, Hermes and Miu Miu, to the more affordable High Street favourites along Oxford Street and Regent’s Street including River Island, Zara, H&M and Primark. But no shopping trip is complete without spending time in the iconic department stores of Selfidges, Fenwicks, House of Fraser, Debenhams, Liberty, Marks & Spencer and John Lewis.
Talking of John Lewis, when you need refreshments away from the hustle and bustle of the shoppers, head to the Roof Garden at John Lewis for a glass or two of Mulled Wine in the winter, when the roof top is converted, in conjunction with the Gardening Society, to a Festive Forest, complete with fir trees, log cabins and Mac & Wild pop-up restaurant and bar. In the summer the Roof Garden
transforms to a tropical beach club where you can relax and enjoy fruit cocktails. The bar is a favourite haunt of Londoners-in-the-know, so being up there, rubbing shoulders with the movers and shakers feels like a bit of a privilege for the elite.
Theatreland extravaganza No trip to London is complete without taking in an amazing West End show, so book tickets for one of the dynamic musicals well in advance of your trip and hop on the bus or tube to Shaftesbury Avenue, Soho and Covent Garden to see the show of your choice. Highly recommended, but difficult to get tickets for at the moment is Book of Mormon, showing at Prince of Wales Theatre, and the latest shows, Aladdin (Prince Edward Theatre) and Dreamgirls (Savoy Theatre) are getting rave reviews. However, you will be blown away by Motown the Musical (Shaftesbury Theatre), which will take you on a musical trip down memory lane to the era when the Jackson 5, Diana Ross & the Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, The Temptations and Marvin Gaye were just some of the all-time greats to rule the airwaves. Guaranteed you and your girls will absolutely love it! (see our review on page 90).
A taste of the West End Pre-theatre drinks will get your party started, and Freud cocktail bar (198 Shaftesbury Avenue) – is an intimate underground venue that is perfect for both pre and apres
theatre drinks with friendly bar staff and eye-catching artwork. Alternatively London Cocktail Club in Covent Garden (6-7 Great Newport Street) is a lively bar with an awardwinning bartender at the helm – so you know the drinks will be delicious!
Getting peckish after the show, its time to dine out in style – so rub shoulders with the rich and famous, and even with the stars from the West End shows at the famously trendy The Ivy on West Street, Soho (www.the-ivy.co.uk). It’s a famous and longestablished restaurant right in the middle of theatreland serving mouth-watering global cuisine with a contemporary twist. Alternatively The Barbary in Covent Garden offers a spicy taste of the Mediterranean in trendy Neal’s Yard (www.thebarbary.co.uk). For something a little more exotic, treat your tastebuds to the flavour of the East with Japanese fare at Murakami at 63-66 St Martin’s Lane (020 3417 6966), or head into China town and take your pick of authentic Chinese cuisine. Or if you prefer delightful British cuisine in plush, contemporary surroundings, head to Lanes of London restaurant and bar in Park Lane, Mayfair (www.lanesoflondon.co.uk).
Not ready to turn in yet? Then dance the night away at Club 49, in Greek St, Soho, or head to Gem at 10 Beak Street, Soho, which is always full of revellers looking to party and a great place to celebrate with the girls.
Take a cab back to your hotel, and enjoy stylish cocktails in the bar before heading off to bed, knowing that your hens have enjoyed a taste of the high-life that London has to offer. www.BridesAbroad.com 87
Glitzy hens at
Marriott London Park Lane
Anyone who has played Monopoly, knows that Park Lane is one of the most elite addresses in London, indeed in the world! No surprise then, that Marriot London Park Lane hotel is a swanky place to stay on a luxury hen pampering trip to the West End Don’t you owe it to yourself and your favourite girls to have an utterly fabulous stay during your hen trip to London? So where better to be totally indulged in luxury and high society than at the 5-star Marriott London Park Lane, where you can rub shoulders with the rich and famous whilst being submerged in plush elegance at the heart of London’s West End. Ideally positioned for the shopping trip of a lifetime, you can step out of the hotel’s opulent lobby and find yourselves in shoppers heaven at the corner of Oxford Street and Park Lane, just a five minute stroll from Selfridges and the high-fashion shops and department stores along London’s most famous shopping street. 88 www.BridesAbroad.com
Glamourous surrounds Impeccable attention to detail has been lavished on the hotel’s newly renovated interior, set in a late Edwardian Grade II listed building overlooking Hyde Park and Marble Arch. The hotel is positively overflowing with all the state-of-the-art facilities you could possibly expect from a leading luxury hotel. Furnishings in soft shades of white, dove grey and lavender and materials including leather, silk, solid wood and marble have been used throughout to epitomise Mayfair elegance, which is reflected in public spaces as well as in its 152 bedrooms and five new suites.
Rooms of all levels are exquisite and generously sized with king size beds and stunning marble bathrooms. Choose from the room categories available, ranging from Deluxe Rooms to Premier Suites. Rooms blend cosy comfort with stylish luxury and offer a host of amenities – the most surprising being the heated loo seat with adjustable cleansing jets, which offer an amusing alternative to the average loo.
Fine dining in Lanes of London The transformation of the hotel’s interior follows the opening of Lanes of London restaurant – the hotel’s elegant and bar
which reflects the character of the building with its marble and aged brass and racing green leather décor. The restaurant is open throughout the day to guests and non-residents and can be accessed either through the hotel or via its own impressive entrance on Park Lane. This modern British eatery and bar offers a delicious seasonal menu and a fine selection of wines, craft beers and excellent cocktails. One of its real highlights is the delicious afternoon tea served between 12-5pm.
Fit Club What better way to spend bonding time with the girls after your shopping day than in the hotel’s The Club health and wellness spa, to unwind before heading
out for a night on the town. Book a spa treatment and be pampered from topto-toe to re-charge your flagging energy levels, relax in the sauna and steam room or take a leisurely swim in the only hotel pool on Park Lane. The Club at Park Lane offers a selection of bespoke massages and treatments by AromaWorks in the new Treatment Room, including The Absolute Facial, a relaxing and effective facial treatment for all skin types. Guests and private members have 24-hour access to the gym and heated swimming pool, should they feel inspired to take a dip at midnight.
Weddings Of course, the hotel is not just perfect for elite hen parties. Anyone planning an
exquisite wedding in London could not find a more elegant and superbly positioned venue to host their wedding than Marriott London Park Lane, where three wedding venues are offered complete with a private dining menu that will be sure to dazzle your guests. Each of the wedding venues boasts impeccable design accents and superb audiovisual capabilities, with the hotel’s wedding coordinators on hand to take care of all the details. Once your wedding reception is over, treat yourself to a day of excitement on vibrant Park Lane.
Further information Marriott London Park Lane Tel: + 44 (0)20 7493 7000 www.londonmarriottparklane.co.uk
www.BridesAbroad.com 89
West End Theartre Review
Rev iew b y M ar tin C od y -Owen
WOW! I can’t recall any other West End show, which I watched with my mouth open in a broad grin. I genuinely had jaw ache after the first few numbers! If you like to be totally immersed in the soulful sounds of the sixties then this is the show for you – and what a musical treat it is! From beginning to end more than 50 memorable classics came thick and fast, each one a toe tapping hit from a fabulous musical era and delivered with astonishing talent and authenticity. The Musical is based on the meteoric rise and gradual demise of one of the USA’s most prolific musical entrepreneurs, Berry Gordy. Started in 1958, his home-grown record label, Motown, spawned some of the industries biggest stars, including Diana Ross and the Supremes, Smokey Robinson, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and the Jackson 5. Whilst it could be argued that perhaps the audience didn’t learn quite as much about Berry Gordy as might have been envisaged, this would have completely missed the point.
90
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Rather, the Motown story is merely a platform to showcase the incredible talent that emanated from Detroit in the 1950s 60s and 70s. And what a showcase it is! For musical theatre lovers there is no better way of spending a few hours in an intimate theatre setting, than being thoroughly entertained by the fabulous sights and sound of the Motown cast. The protagonist, Gordy is played by the talented American, Cedric Neal, who captures Gordy’s infectious enthusiasm as an indefatigable entrepreneur, and tireless talent scout, perfectly.
West End Theartre Review
And equally convincing is his on-stage relationship with Diana Ross, played by the fabulous Lucy St Louis. Their duet, ‘You’re All I Need To Get By’ was one of the highlights of the show, leaving the audience utterly spellbound. Another absolute crowd-pleaser was the incredible youngster playing Michael Jackson, delighting the audience with memorable performances of ‘I Want You Back’ and the audience’s favourite, ‘ABC’. There is just enough of every song to ensure that you recognise, and can sing along to, every word. And boy did those hits just keep on coming and coming; ‘Baby I Need Your Lovin’, from The Four Tops, ‘I Heard It Through The Grapevine’ by Marvin Gaye, ‘Dancing In The Street’ by Martha and the Vandellas, ‘I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)’ by The Four Tops, ‘My Girl’ by the Temptations, ‘Happy Birthday’ by Stevie Wonder and the anthemic ‘Reach Out And Touch’ (Somebody’s Hand) by Diana Ross. Judging by the rapturous applause and lengthy standing ovation as the curtain came down, clearly I was not the only one who was thoroughly entertained by the extraordinary talents of the Motown cast and the show. It’s five stars from me!
Further information
Theatre: Shaftesbury Theatre, 210 Shaftesbury Avenue, London WC2H 8DP
Dates: now booking to 24 February 2018 Performances: Monday – Saturday 7.30pm, Thursday & Saturday matinees at 2.30pm Prices: Tickets from £19.50 No booking fees via www.motownthemusical.co.uk, over the phone on 020 7379 5399 or in person at the Shaftesbury Theatre Box Office. Box Office: 020 7379 5399 Website: www.motownthemusical.co.uk Twitter: @MotownUK Facebook: MotownMusicalUK
www.BridesAbroad.com 91
The
professional touch
Don’t let the stress of organising your big day spoil your wedding. Put your feet up and let your wedding planner organise the wedding of your dreams! Trying to arrange your own big day is a daunting task – especially if you want to marry in an exotic location and are unsure about the procedures and local suppliers. Why put yourself under unnecessary pressure when you can ease the burden by handing all the hard work over to a professional wedding planner?
getting married here in the UK. We continually aim for the skies and only use the best suppliers in the industry and we will be there for the bride and groom as their confidante, their friend and their wedding planner.”
Wedding planners work on a global landscape that includes not only virtually every country in the world but also any kind of wedding in locations such as beaches, castles, cliffs and desert islands.
Many couples imagine their wedding under the blue sky with the sun shining and beautiful natural surrounding, but don’t feel confident having a wedding abroad.
It is, however, important to remember that the wedding planning business is unregulated. You should make sure you’re happy with the firm you book – you might want to ask for customer testimonials and references, and check them.
Relax and enjoy!
When it comes to costing it all out, planners operate different systems. Most create various level packages that you will be free to customise according to your requirements. You will have the choice of whether you ask your planner to arrange flights and accommodation or whether you do it yourselves. You can even ask the planner to deal with invitations and RSVPs, or just ask them to arrange the ceremony and reception. Just one word of caution: some less reputable companies will try to add an additional charge of up to 20 per cent to the total cost of your wedding package. You should be able to see precisely what you are paying for in full, transparent detail. Then relax and let the experts do what they do best – create your perfect wedding!
Experts advice
Lisa Burton from the Bridal Consultant (www.thebridalconsultants.com) specialises in organising destination weddings in some of Europe’s most popular destinations, including Santorini, Zykinthos, Italy, Croatia, Crete, Malta and Ibiza from her base in the UK. She says: “Destination Weddings should be just as unique and special as those for couples 92 www.BridesAbroad.com
Wedding confidence
“We are here to help you organize a relaxed and stress free Wedding Day,” says Margarita Kasfiki, whose company weddingsrhodes.com started planning weddings on the island of Rhodes in 2004. “Our experience grows every year and we try to offer the best that Rhodes has to offer to couples that trust us to organise their Special Day. We offer Civil Ceremonies, Orthodox Weddings and Vows Renewal as well as parties and events,” she says. weddingsrhodes.com can also help with your travel and accommodation arrangements through their sister company Mediterranean Holidays Ltd.
Peace of mind
When Alise Kolosova married in Malta, she chose to use the services of I Do Knot, a Malta based Wedding Planner to organize her wedding: “I would recommend Petra and her I Do Knot team to everyone!” says Alise, who had made a last minute decision to marry on the beautiful Mediterranean island and needed help to organize her wedding quickly. “Petra was super fast in providing us with the best options and deals! I had reached out to few companies, but Petra was outstanding and stood out right away! I could not be more thankful,” she says. I DO KNOT work alongside brides and grooms from the moment they sign the contract with the wedding planners right up until the vows have been exchanged. They plan each day in a bespoke manner, offering plenty of options and ideas, catering for all sizes of weddings and budgets. www.idoknot.com
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Weddingsrhodes.com
Weddingsrhodes.com is based locally and has been planning Weddingsfor the last 12 years on the island of Rhodes. We have experience in weddings, blessings and orthodox ceremonies. We are well known for our quality, excellent service and credibility. We are here to plan the Wedding of your Dreams so just sit back, relax, and leave everything to us.
Further Information: Mediterranean Holidays Ltd 3rd klm Rodou-Lindou, 85100 Rhodes | Tel: +30 2241 034 260, +30 6956 336 512 | Fax. 302241029575 www.weddingsrhodes.com | info@weddingsrhodes.com
Ask the planners!
We asked Lisa Burton of The Bridal Consultant wedding planning service to answer your burning questions on planning a wedding abroad.
Small wedding worries I’m worried about having such a small guest list for my wedding in Greece next year. I originally had a guest list of 30+, however, due to budget issues I now only have 14 close friends and family attending. I’m sure it will be a day to remember regardless of my guest numbers, however I’m just worried about how to entertain this amount of people. I think having a DJ/disco will be a bit too much. Can you recommend any alternative entertainment? Marny, Milton Keynes
Hi Marny I completely understand your concern. If you are worried that hiring a DJ won’t be worth it for your small party, perhaps hire a sound system/speaker and have background music playing instead. This way you are still creating an atmosphere and guests can still have a little dance, yet it is more intimate and perfect for smaller weddings. Also, if you want to provide a little more fun for your guests, Greek dancers are great (as long as you know your guests will want to get up and involved!).
Mingling guests
I have a big wedding (approximately 100 people), which is taking place in Malta next year. Although both my partners’ family and my family have met before, I really want them to get to know each other and become more friendly for the wedding. Do you have any ideas on how to do this? Helen, Devon
Hi Helen Post wedding celebrations are a great way to get your guests mingling before the big day! A popular idea is hiring a boat a couple of days before and getting your guests on board (you would, of course need to find a boat big enough for 100 people!). Or you could hire an area of a restaurant/beach bar and have drinks or maybe even a BBQ! There are so many options, just make sure you let your guests know beforehand so they don’t plan any trips/excursions on that day.
Alone time with hubby
II’m getting married in Croatia in May and, it may seem silly, but I’m worried that I’ll get too caught up in what’s going on around me and will not get enough alone time with my
Contact Lisa:
Do you have any questions for Lisa Burton, The Bridal Consultant? Email your questions to: lisa@thebridalconsultants.com or call 01244 316772
94 www.BridesAbroad.com
hubby-to-be. I think it’s important that we spend some time alone together away from our guests to take it all in, however, I’m unsure on how to plan this ahead. Can you help? Sarah, Isle of Man
Hi Sarah I completely agree that creating some alone time with your other half on your big day is important. Most couple’s only complaint on their wedding day is that it went too fast, so taking some time to reflect on what a special day you’re having will be really beneficial for the both of you, and you’ll be glad to know that there are ways in which you can do this! My first recommendation would be to have some couple shots taken with your photographer away from your guests during the evening – sunset time is perfect for this! Another way in which you could grab some alone time is to have a sweetheart table for just the two of you rather than having a top table shared with other guests, this way you will both be able to see what a great time your guests are having. Also, if your ceremony and reception are taking place in separate venues, arrange separate transport for the two of you rather than travelling with your guests, whether it’s in a fancy car, a horse and carriage, or even a helicopter!
The Bridal Consultant is a full wedding planning service that specialises in exclusive destination weddings in Santorini and Zakynthos (Greece), Italy, Croatia and Ibiza. www.thebridalconsultant.co.uk
Honeymoons
96 Caribbean favourites
Can’t decide which Caribbean island is best for you? Let us help you make your mind up with Bride’s Abroad’s guide to the perfect honeymoon island to suit your style
104 The Bahamas
Wedding venues are plentiful in the Bahamas – but few are as unique as magnificent ceremonies underwater
106 A taste of Spain
Lovers of good food and fine wine can enjoy the perfect honeymoon with a wine tasting tour of Spain’s sunny vineyards
110 Grape Escapes
Wine buffs and spa junkies alike will be in seventh heaven when they indulge in Vinotherapy – spa treatments that harnesses the healing power of the grape
112 Mykonos & Zante – two Greek island gems We highlight two of Greece’s favourite island destinations for spectacular honeymoons in the sun
118 Explore the world – the price is right!
Fabulous low-cost honeymoons are available throughout the year. Check out our month-by-month guide to world-class budget destinations www.BridesAbroad.com 95
Caribbean Favourites Can’t decide which beautiful Caribbean island will best suit your own honeymoon style? Then let us help you choose your ideal destination! 96 www.BridesAbroad.com
Jamaica
The colourful island
If you want the Caribbean at its most colourful and authentic, then head to Jamaica, an island that epitomises everything you imagined about the Caribbean. From its laid-back vibe to its gorgeous white sand, palm-fringed beaches. There’s so much to do and see, from the vibrant bar-strips of Negril and Ocho Rios to exciting tourist attractions including Dunn’s River Falls. So discover all that Jamaica has to offer, including Port Antonio and Treasure Beach where you can chill in a local beach bar with a glass of rum to the sound of the reggae beat.
Spree
Stay at Sunscape Cove Montego Bay. Virgin Holidays are offering seven nights all-inclusive in a Deluxe Sun Club Beach Front King from £3,138pp including flights and transfers. Virginholidays.co.uk
Steal
Stay at Rooms on the Beach Negril, Tropical sky is offering seven nights B&B from £1,839 pp including flights. Tropicalsky.co.uk
Antigua
Colonial Charm Antigua is best known for its romantic hideaways and private beaches that are perfect for honeymoons, However, unlike many islands in the Caribbean, it is one of the most accessible. But Antigua is much more than just sun, azure blue waters and an astounding 365 beaches. The island boasts colonial-era historical sites and plenty of culture. Visit Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and see its beautiful restored original buildings and the capital, St John’s, is perfect for harbour-front shopping. For the best island views head up to Shirley Heights overlooking the famous English Harbour.
Spree
Stay at Rosewood Resort’s Jumby Bay. Elegant Resorts is offering seven nights B&B, from £4,040 pp, including flights. Elegantresorts.co.uk
Steal
Stay at the Jolly Beach, Antigua. Caribbean Classics is offering seven nights, all-inclusive from £880 pp including flights and transfers. Caribbeanclassics.co.uk
Dominican Republic
Beach holiday island For a fun beach honeymoon in the Caribbean sunshine, the Dominican Republic is a good all-rounder, with palm-fringed white sandy beaches in abundance on the eastern and northern coasts, a good choice of golf courses, great nightlife and hotels to suit every budget. However, it is well worth hiring a car and exploring to discover an island lush with mountains studded with waterfalls, magnificent national parks, the unspoilt peninsula of Samana which is perfect for hiking and the pounding surf on the wild, mountainous southwest coast.
Spree
Stay at the luxurious Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, in Punta Cana. Hayes & Jarvis is offering seven nights all-inclusive from £1,521 pp in a Hard Rock Caribbean Suite, including flight from Birmingham and transfers. Hayesandjarvis.co.uk
Steal
Stay at the Iberostar Dominicana. Thomas Cook is offering seven nights from £870 per person, including flights and transfers. Thomascook.com www.BridesAbroad.com 97
Grenada
The authentic Caribbean Known as the ‘Spice Island’, Grenada is romantic and natural with tropical rainforests, waterfalls, spice plantations, white sand beaches and spice-fragranced sea breezes. Honeymooners can try river tubing, hiking in the rainforest or taking a boat excursion to the neighbouring islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique. Dive into the Underwater Sculpture Park, with its beautiful tropical fish, pristine reefs, 22 wrecks and 50 dive sites. Be sure to sample Grenada’s traditionally produced rum and visit the spice markets in the capital, St George.
Spree
Stay at the beautiful Sandals La Source. Virgin Holidays are offering seven nights, luxury included, from £1,908 pp. including flights and transfers. Virginholidays.co.uk
Steal
Stay at the Coyabra, on Grand Anse Beach. Tropical sky is offering seven nights all-inclusive from £919 pp including flights. Tropicalsky.co.uk
Barbados
Glamorous and fun Barbados is the island where the locals love to party. No other Caribbean island offers so many activities and social events, nor such diversity, which is perhaps why Barbados is the Caribbean’s most revisited destination. From the rugged beauty and the wild beaches of Bathsheba in the east to the glamorous west and the vibrant south, with its thriving nightlife, to the calm and quiet north, there’s definitely something for everyone’s taste. There are plenty of activities too – from catamaran cruising to golf, polo and zip lining and dining in one of over 100 restaurants, from 5-star gastronomy to local eateries.
Spree
Stay at the luxurious Sandy Lane. Scott Dunn is offering seven nights including flights and transfers from £3,128 pp. www.scottdunn.com
Steal
Stay at the Barbados Beach Club. Thomas Cook is offering seven nights all-inclusive from £1,109 pp, including flights and transfers. www.thomascook.com.
St Lucia
Striking natural beauty St Lucia is a truly romantic island with incredible natural scenery – it’s perfect for both restful beach honeymoons and action-packed adventure. Palm-fringed beaches blend in with lush mountains, rainforest and banana plantations, thriving towns and villages and picturesque marinas. Its many natural attractions include the iconic majestic twin pitons – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There’s also the world’s only drive-in volcano, mud baths, natural springs and rainforests you can zoom over on a zip wire. Try a jeep safari, hire a sailing yacht or simply relax with a spa treatment.
Spree
Stay overlooking the Pitons at Paradise Ridge at Ladara. Elegant Resorts is offering seven nights B&B in a Paradise Ridge Suite from £5,595 pp including flights & transfers. www.elegantresorts.co.uk
Steal
Stay at Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort. Tropical Sky is offering seven nights from £999 pp including flights. www.tropicalsky.co.uk 98 www.BridesAbroad.com
visitjamaica.com @VisitJamaicaUk facebook.com/visitjamaicauk
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JOIN THE ELITE For the most romantic and stylish Caribbean weddings and dream honeymoons choose an Elite Island resort, where utter bliss is all-inclusive
ANTIGUA
St James’s Club & Villas
Just a 10-minute drive from Nelson’s Dockyard, St James’s Club & Villas enjoys a prime position on a picturesque 100-acre peninsula. The all-inclusive resort exudes a casual, club-like ambience and offers luxurious facilities, plenty of activities and a choice of wedding packages and venues for dream weddings – including decorated gazebos overlooking the Caribbean and a wedding arch on the beach. Luxury accommodation is in guestrooms, suites and villas, including the Royal Suites – perfect for honeymoon couples, and private villas overlooking the bay. Delicious cuisine is served in a choice of four restaurants and the resort has two beautiful sandy beaches, the calm Mamora Bay and the exciting surf of Coco Beach, plus six swimming pools, tennis courts and a fitness centre. Non-motorised water sports are complementary, and the Tranquility Body & Soul Spa offers total pampering and couples rituals.
Galley Bay Resort & Spa
Few resorts in the West Indies enjoy such an idyllic beachside setting as Galley Bay Resort & Spa. Just 10 minutes away from the vibrant port of St John’s, it is a peaceful, romantic hideaway in 40-acres of tropical gardens with a lagoon and bird sanctuary. The resort has charming rustic architecture with just 98 rooms and suites in a choice of four categories, including beachfront rooms and suites overlooking golden sands and azure waters and Gauguin Cottages with thatched roof and private splash pool. Honeymooners can relax and enjoy a landscaped swimming pool with waterfall, luxurious spa, fitness centre, tennis and complementary non-motorised water sports. A superb variety of restaurants offer beachfront à la carte dining to suit all moods – from casual to special occasion. Galley Bay has a choice of beautiful settings for wedding ceremonies, including beach gazebos and a path leading to a gazebo located in the lush gardens.
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The Verandah Resort & Spa
Nestling on the lush agricultural northeast coast of Antigua, The Verandah Resort & Spa offers wedding and honeymoon packages in a spacious oasis of luxury and tranquillity, just a 5-minute drive from the spectacular Devil’s Bridge National Park. Set in 30 beautiful beachfront acres, it boasts pretty white sandy coves with calm turquoise waters and luxurious accommodation in suites and villas within manicured gardens – each boasting its own signature ‘verandah’ to enjoy the tropical and sea views. The resort has gorgeous settings for weddings with 5 wedding gazebo options including a wedding gazebo overlooking the bay. An expansive swimming pool is the resort’s centrepiece, there’s also an adult-only pool for quiet relaxation. With three restaurants and four bars, guests have a choice of dining options followed by live evening entertainment. The Tranquility Body & Soul Spa is an elegant hideaway for pampering and relaxation.
THE GRENADINES Palm Island Resort
For perfect Caribbean weddings and honeymoons, the Palm Island Resort in the Grenadines is a magical escape. Completely secluded on its own 135-acre private island fringed with coconut palms, soft white sand and turquoise sea, it is an idyllic place to relax and unwind. The resort has been built to blend in with its natural surroundings, with many of its rooms, suites and villas located on the beach. Here honeymooners can hike, swim, enjoy non-motorised water sports and explore the island at their leisure. Palm Island offers relaxation with five white sand beaches, a swimming pool with waterfall, fitness centre and Spa Treatment Room. The beachfront restaurants take advantage of locally grown vegetables and fresh seafood, and romance seekers can enjoy private beach dining at the romantic heart-shaped tree (additional charge).
ST LUCIA
St James’s Club Morgan Bay
BARBADOS
The Club Barbados Resort & Spa
Set in a beautiful location, just a 10 minute drive from Rodney Bay Marina, and offering plenty of Caribbean charm, this fun-filled beachfront resort has an abundance of first-class facilities to keep honeymooners relaxed and entertained in the St Lucia sunshine. The all-inclusive resort is the perfect place to say: “I do” with a choice of inclusive wedding and honeymoon packages. Rooms are set in pink blocks around the resort with garden, pool or ocean views. There are six delightful dining options and four swimming pools, including a large main pool area with swim-up bar and separate kids and adultonly options. The Hilltop Spa offers luxurious couples treatments whilst active rest is offered with a range of activities including water sports, tennis courts, fully-equipped gym, pilates and spin classes and fantastic live evening entertainment.
In a gorgeous setting on the west coast of Barbados, known as the ‘Gold Coast’, The Club Barbados Resort & Spa nestles amid lush tropical gardens and is a haven of blissful relaxation. The adults-only, all-inclusive resort is a 30 minute drive away from Bridgetown with its vibrant nightlife. The hotel has a small beach with its own extensive list of water sports, including water-skiing. A short stroll in the warm sunshine takes you to one of the beautiful beaches on either side of the resort, or relax on a lounger by the hotel’s split-level pool, or in the spa where you can be indulged with luxurious treatments including couples massage and aromatherapy. The hotel offers mouth-watering cuisine in a choice of two restaurants and the Rum Shop Bar is a true Bajan rum shop and a great place to round off another day in paradise.
Book it!
www.eliteislandresorts.co.uk or though your local travel agent
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Pineapple Beach Club Beach loving couples will know they’ve found paradise in the Caribbean when they choose Pineapple Beach Club for dream weddings and honeymoons
Pineapple Beach Club is a romantic resort, tucked away in a tropical hideaway on the Caribbean island of Antigua, where the beach curves in a perfect quarter-mile arc of brilliant, powdery white sand. The resort offers elegant Caribbeanstyle accommodation amidst 30 acres of lush gardens, where guests can enjoy the relaxed ambience at Antigua’s most laid-back all-inclusive resort and admire the amazing ocean views and authentic Caribbean vibe. Guests can swim in the resort’s two freshwater pools, dine at one of the seaside restaurants, enjoy an abundance of complementary nonmotorised watersports and be pampered from head to toe in the spa – or they can simply pull up a sun lounger under a palm tree and give in to the sound of the waves meeting the shore.
The All-inclusive, adult-only resort offers accommodations in 180 rooms set in one, two and three story buildings, each reflecting easygoing Caribbean architecture and lifestyle. Guest rooms come in a choice to suit your taste and budget – including Tropical Waterfront rooms, Beachfront rooms, Oceanview rooms and Garden View rooms.
The dining experience Wining and dining at Pineapple Beach Club is a delightful experience with a variety of bars and restaurants to choose from throughout the resort which offer an array of delicious cuisine, from favourite Caribbean family recipes to international fine dining. Topaz restaurant enjoys a prime position, just steps away from the sugar white sand beach, and serves meals throughout the
day, including special themed buffets; Chef Pietro’s is an Italian specialty restaurant where you can reserve an idyllic table right next to the beach and enjoy Italian cuisine in style; Pineapple Grill will satisfy your longing for authentic Caribbean favourites at this delightful venue tucked amidst the lush tropical gardens; Pelican Snack Grill serves light lunches and snacks throughout the day. However, a trip to Mary’s Outhouse is a MUST. This amazing, rustic Caribbean grill and BBQ sits high atop the waters of Long Bay offering superb views. The legendary Miss Mary will whip you up a delicious homemade snack to accompany your frosty soda or ice beer and, before you leave, be sure to create your own personal sign that will immortalize your visit to the truly one-ofa-kind venue!
Fun in the sun Whether it’s practicing your serve on the tennis courts, on the sand for a game of beach volleyball, or taking to the water for watersports, including windsurfing, snorkeling, kayaking, sailing and scuba diving to over 20 dive sites surrounded by coral reefs, shipwrecks and beautiful sea life – there’s always something to do. There’s also table tennis and shuffleboard. Sail out to greet the sunset, or simply sit back and soak in the rays – at Pineapple Beach Club, you’re free to set the pace.
Spa and fitness centre You can keep fit and work out in the air conditioned Fitness Centre, featuring weights and cardio machines, or relax and
treat yourself to a deserved indulgence at Tranquility Body & Soul Spa, where you can be totally pampered with one of the signature healing treatments and feel all the stress and worry drain from your body, mind and soul, leaving you in a state of utter relaxation.
look forward to the most special day of your lives. You can also book the resort’s all-inclusive Honeymoon Package which offers oneymoon couples extra treats and indulgences during their stay at Pineapple Beach Club to make sure their honeymoon is filled with special memories.
The perfect Caribbean wedding Exchange vows on a silky white-sand beach as the sun reflects off the waters of the sea with the resort’s affordable all-inclusive Destination Wedding Package. Your Pineapple Beach Club wedding coordinator will help make all your dreams come true. From the very first moment you arrive, every detail will be taken care of, so that all you need to do is sit back, breathe easily and
Book It Pineapple Beach Club, Antigua is an Elite Island Resort. For further information and bookings log on to: www.pineapplebeachclub.com
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Paradise Weddings are reality in
The Bahamas
The wedding day of each and every bride and groom has to be extra special. In The Islands Of The Bahamas exchanging vows in a paradise-like setting is a given, with the 16 main islands offering many different locations and venue styles. The romance of the naturally beautiful environment, warmth of the Bahamian people and a local attention to detail ensure everything is just right. Toes-in-the-sand weddings take on a different dimension in The Bahamas as you can choose from the soft white, pink or golden sand beaches scattered liberally like confetti through the 16 main islands, matching the sand to your colour scheme. Eleuthera and Harbour Island are most famed for their pink sand beaches although there are others – for example, Cat Island boasts pink sand too. Sandals Emerald Bay Golf, Tennis & Spa Resort on Great Exuma is set on a sweeping curve of white beach, just one of the locations featured in their menu of wedding packages. One of the most popular spectacular settings for couples wanting to set the big scene is the 12th century Augustinian Cloister in the Versailles Gardens on Paradise Island. The stone chapel ruins at Mount Alvernia (the highest point of The Bahamas) on Cat Island at just 63 metres, lend an almost mythical setting to a wedding with beautiful 360-degree views of the island. The picturesque pastel coloured clapboard cottages and picket fences of Hopetown, in The Abacos, are reminiscent of an English village. Ride to your ceremony on a beribboned golf cart or take a little boat over to the candy-striped Elbow Reef Lighthouse for a truly unusual wedding location.
Deep Love - off Grand Bahama Island In June 2017 there is the opportunity for couples to take part in the world’s largest ever underwater wedding. Share your wedding ceremony with a constantly changing guest list of marine life swimming in and out when you choose a divers-only wedding in the clearest water in the world. Your officiant will be a qualified diver as will be the underwater photographer recording your memorable moments with a crystal clarity and otherworldly quality. Visit indeeplovebahamas.com
Further Information For general information visit: bahamas.com
Powder-soft beaches as white as your gown.
Turquoise waters that sparkle like your ring. And countless locations waiting to host your ceremony,
each as unique as your love.
#BahamasWeddings
Follow us on: bahamas.co.uk/wedding-honeymoonpackages | 0207 3550800
Š2016 The Islands Of The Bahamas
A taste of Spain
Couples who are lovers of fine wine and good food can indulge their palates on a scrumptious wine tasting honeymoon in the vineyards of northern Spain Those who appreciate the finer things in life will be totally blown away by the gastronomoic delights and delicious wines of Spain’s wine region – add to that the glorious sunshine, stunning scenery, historic Don Quixote windmills, sleeping in ancient castles and taking romantic hot air balloon rides and a wine-tasting tour of Spain promises to be the honeymoon of a lifetime. Wine Tourism Spain is Spain’s leading provider of wine 106 www.BridesAbroad.com
and culinary travel. The company offers exciting itineraries with winery tours paired with delicious wine and gastronomy tastings that make the perfect honeymoon or mini-moon getaway. The tours are ideal for newlyweds seeking romance, authentic food and wine and a taste of adventure. Whether it’s a toe-in-the water destination experience or a guided or self-guided wine tour, short culinary break, walking tour or road trip, Wine Tourism Spain can tailor-make each experience.
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Best for a romantic drive
Madrid to Bilbao Road Trip via wine country Gallivant around the streets of Madrid and soak up the gorgeous Spanish architecture, before heading north to the quiet and wonderfully enchanting Ribera del Duero. The oldest hotel in the province, Castillo de Curiel is a castle fit for a King and Queen. Each room is personalised to reflect an historical figure and enjoys dramatic views over the local vineyards. Throughout the trip guests will enjoy a wide selection of Spanish wines from different regions, and delicious tapas and meals in each unique city along the way. With the luxury of having a rental car, guests can travel down the back roads and visit some of the prestigious boutique wineries for a tasting, while enjoying the sites of the region’s beautiful countryside. The surrounding architecture is also rich in history and provides endless romantic discoveries for couples that want to get away from the crowds.
Book it!
Wine Tourism Spain offers an eight-day, seven-night Madrid to Bilbao Road Trip, via wine country tour from £765 pp based on two sharing a double room. This include 6-nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis, a one night stay in a castle, a day visit to a local winery in Ribera del Duero with wine tasting, two visits to wineries in Rioja and meals as specified including wine and food pairing dinners and local Basque lunches. Valid for travel year-round. www.winetourismspain.com
Best for the energetic
Penedes walking tour from Barcelona This brand new three-night, four-day tour through the beautiful wine region of Penedés is perfect for active food and wine lovers who are wanting a quick getaway just outside Barcelona. The trip consists of moderate daily walking and cycling routes of approximately 17 kilometres complete with several stops along the way. Walk through stunning vineyards surrounded by villages and castles set amongst the landscapes of Catalonia and enjoy the best local gastronomy and hospitality with overnight stays in charming family-run hotels. The trip wraps up with a visit to Vilafranca de Penedes, the capital of the wine region, before heading back to Barcelona. This trip will lead guests through forest paths, open fields, and past waterfalls, making the arrival at each wine tasting a special experience.
Book it! Wine Tourism Spain offers a four-day, three-night Penedes walking tour from Barcelona from £424 pp based on two sharing a double room. This includes three-nights’ accommodation, breakfasts, lunches and dinners as specified, two guided winery tours and tastings and luggage transportation. Valid for travel April – October. www.winetourismspain.com
www.BridesAbroad.com 107
Best for culture lovers Toledo, Windmills & Wineries Private Tour
This one-night, two-day tour through Toledo and La Mancha is perfect for lovers of history and literature. Honeymooners will spend an evening in a luxury hotel in Toledo after visiting the Royal Palace of Aranjuez UNESCO World Heritage site to discover the historic underground ruins. The following day, there are winery tours and wine tastings and the opportunity to indulge in the best gastronomy of Toledo and taste several dishes local to the La Mancha region. A trip to La Mancha would not be complete without a visit to the 12 windmills in Consuegra, dating back to the 16th century. It is arguably one of the most remarkable sites in the region. Discover the culture, monuments and landscapes of La Mancha, which pays homage to Miguel de Cervantes, author of the famous novel Don Quixote
Book it!
Wine Tourism Spain offers a one-night Toledo, Windmills & Wineries Private Tour from £492 pp based on two sharing a double room. This includes one-night accommodation in a luxury hotel in Toledo, a special gastronomic meal, breakfast, one lunch, visits and tastings at two wineries, a visit to three monuments of Toledo and the UNESCO Heritage Site of Aranjuez, transportation and an expert tour guide. Valid for travel year-round. www.winetourismspain.com
Best when love is in the air A one-off hot air balloon experience over Rioja
Those looking for an adventure and once in a lifetime experience can enjoy a hot air balloon ride at sunrise overlooking the vast vineyards of Rioja. After enjoying dramatic views of the Sierra Cantabria mountains, the Ebro river, and the diverse flora and fauna of the region, gently descend and celebrate with a glass of signature Rioja cava. From here, guests can explore some of the best wineries in the country from those which line Río Ebro around the town of Haro, to the lesser-known, more intimate wineries in neighbouring Navarra and the Basque province of Álava. As well as this, Rioja is home to ancient monuments, historical churches, unforgettable gastronomy and breathtaking landscapes.
Book it! Wine Tourism Spain offers a range of bespoke experiences in Rioja, ranging from one day trips to multi-tours. The hot air ballooning experience costs £290. www.winetourismspain.com
108 www.BridesAbroad.com
RealWEDDINGS
Grape Escapes If your idea of total pampering is a glass of wine to lift the spirits, just imagine the benefits of being completely immersed in your favourite tipple on your honeymoon!
Vinotherapy doesn’t mean stretching out on a couch and revealing your troubles to a compassionate spa therapist who listens and pours you a glass of full-bodied Barolo! Vinotherapy is a gourmet spa experience that works its magic by indulging your love of wine with the therapeutic and beautifying properties of grapes – it’s the ultimate spa treatment for wine connoisseurs! However, if you are worried that being covered from head-to-toe in a wine-infused treatment means you will stagger out of the treatment 110
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room in a drunken blur, don’t fret. Vinotherapy uses non-alcoholic products and treatments derived from grapes harvested from the world’s finest vineyards to leave your mind, body and soul in a state of supreme wellbeing. Wine spa hotels offer the best of both worlds – after all, what can be better than having a grape-seed scrub at a spa on a wine estate - and then getting to taste the wine derived from the vineyards outside?
Spain’s top Vinotherapy hotels
Peralada Resort & Wine Spa Girona, Spain
Peralada Resort & Wine Spa in Girona, Spain, pampers newlyweds with three of the most luxurious activities on earth: golf, spa, and wine, it’s the perfect place for wineloving honeymooners to relax and indulge in fine cuisine, wines and pampering. This gem of a resort is set close to vineyards and cellars, and many local wine products are used at the spa. The Hotel Peralada enjoys a superb setting, surrounded by an 18hole golf course and a nature reserve. It offers 55 comfortable rooms and suites with outstanding views to the golf course, the Albera mountain range and the medieval town of Peralada. Indulge yourself with a perfect pampering programme of sunbathing on the pool terrace, toasting the sunset with a delicious cocktail in the Wine Bar or relaxing in the Wine Spa with the hotel’s own range of cosmetic products made of grapes from its own vineyards. Vinotherapy treatments include body peeling with grape seeds; body wraps; wine baths and couples’grape massages. www.hotelperalada.com
Hotel Marques De Riscal Rioja Wine Region, Spain
The landmark Hotel Marques De Riscal is a stunning contemporary hotel, designed by renowned architect Frank O. Gehry. Located in the heart of the Rioja wine region, the 43-suite hotel oozes 5-star luxury and is the perfect place for a relaxing honeymoon with some serious wine therapy. Couples can drink in gorgeous views of the vineyards and the town of Elciego and enjoy fine gastronomy in the Michelin star Echaurren Restaurant, which is set to become one of Spain's leading restaurants. The hotel’s Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa is the backbone of the leisure facilities on offer, with an indoor swimming pool, hammam, fitness gymnasium, and a wide variety of therapeutic vinotherapy treatments using spa products from the best that grapes have to offer – including the Crushed Cabernet Scrub, the Pulp Friction Massage, the Honey and Wine Wrap and the Barrel Bath. www.hotel-marquesderiscal.com
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MYKONOS & ZANTE Greek Island Gems
The stunning Greek islands of Mykonos and Zante offer sunshine and spectacular scenery – and they are just a short hop from UK airports, making them perfect for dream weddings and magical honeymoons
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Mykonos
Zante
If you loved the film Mama Mia! then you will love the island of Zante. It has all the ingredients for an unforgettable wedding or honeymoon – or both! Known affectionately as Zante, the island of Zakynthos is a jewel in the Ionian crown and is one of the most popular Greek Islands for hosting dream weddings and honeymoons. It’s easy to see why – with its blue flag beaches, gentle trade winds and the sweet smell of bougainvillea in a rainbow of colours, it is one of the prettiest of the Greek Islands. The lush island is famed for its colourful floral displays and olive plantations, all thanks to the summer sun and wet winter months and it has kept its authentic Greek style – because, although you will find a wide selection of international cuisine in the resorts, the most popular choice by far are the fantastic Greek taverns. Zante is home to one of the only private beaches in Greece, Cameo Island – Zante’s most popular wedding venue by far. Cameo Island is a small island accessed by a wooden bridge at the quiet end of Lagana Bay. The beach is set in a small cove and offers complete privacy for two hours so you can celebrate your wedding in style, and best of all, it doesn’t cost the earth! Weddings in Zante are fabulous and fun, especially if some of the local Greek traditions are incorporated into the proceedings: Offer your wedding guests a delicious Greek Meze meal – this consists of lots of traditional local dishes, and after your ceremony take a ride as man and wife through the town in a horse drawn carriage while the locals clap, cheer, ring traditional bells and beep their car horns making you feel like a real celebrity on your wedding day! Visitgreece.gr
Mykonos is Greece’s most cosmopolitan island, where glamour meets simplicity. It’s a whitewashed paradise in the heart of the Cyclades, which attracts a wide diversity of visitors – from celebrities and university students to families, wedding parties and honeymooners who mingle together harmoniously each year celebrate the Greek summer. Whether you are seeking fun and nightlife or are more excited by the island’s history and tradition, Mykonos has plenty to offer for the holiday of a lifetime. Honeymooners will discover the romance of the island by taking a leisurely stroll through the winding marble alleys of Mykonos Town with its gleaming white buildings with brightly painted doors and windows, bougainvillea in purple bloom and hidden churches. Visit the Archaeological, Folklore and Maritime Museums to learn more about the island’s history and culture or visit Matoyanni Street with its glamorous designer shops and restaurants. Stop for a coffee in a lively waterfront café and admire the pretty fishing boats bobbing in the harbor. Then, as sun sets, head to the gorgeous district of Little Venice, where the evening light shines off the 18th century grand captains’ mansions, which overhang the ocean. You can enjoy a magical evening meal with your beloved, whilst admiring the views of Mykonos’s iconic windmills on the hillside above, which look stunning against the tangerine skies of the setting sun. The famous beaches of Paradise and Super Paradise are along the southern coast – here, wild parties keep the crowds rocking day and night. The beaches of Órnos and Psaroú are favorites for families, whilst the more sophisticated Platis Yalós beach is perfect for relaxing on a sun lounger. The northern coast has less organized beaches where you can unwind in tranquility with a good book. Mykonos.gr
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You dream it... we make it real
From engagements and weddings to magnificent luxury honeymoons, the Myconian Collection Hotels & Resorts makes every moment exceptional
For couples seeking the perfect wedding destination in the Greek Islands, a picturesque white-washed private chapel, idyllic location, culinary expertise and meticulous, personalised support will make your wedding at one of the hotels in the Myconian Collection simply unique. From discreet elegance to sheer glamour, the Myconian Collection of Hotels & Resorts provide the perfect ambiance for a truly dreamy and romantic occasion in stunning surroundings. Their professional and welcoming staff is always on hand to assist with all details of your gorgeous Mykonos wedding. The Myconian Collection is a local family-owned group of nine outstanding luxury hotels on the legendary island, offering savvy guests a variety of the most fascinating locations, avant-garde Thalasso spa centres, gourmet restaurants, first-class conference facilities and magnificent wedding venues. The Myconian Imperial Resort and the Royal Myconian Resort, both eminent members of Leading Hotels of the World, are well versed in organizing fabulous wedding banquets tailored to perfection. The Myconian Kyma, Myconian korali and Myconian Naia, are ideal for cocktail parties and family celebrations, while when it comes to romantic occasions or luxurious indulgences, the Myconian Ambassador Hotel has a solid track record in catering to almost any wish imaginable. The ceremony is an amazing outdoor experience overlooking the breathtaking panorama of the Aegean Sea and glorious sunset. The whole event is full of details and moments that carry weight and value to adore forever. The Myconian Collection’s expertise in wedding planning comes from years of practice and settling for nothing but the very best. They collaborate with the experts in the business to shape the intricate nuances that make for spectacular festivities. They will organize everything down to the smallest detail on your behalf. You can visit your chosen resort to taste the food that your guests will enjoy and choose the colour theme of the decorations. From invitations and menus to wedding cakes, flowers and lighting, the dedicated team will work with you or your wedding planner to reserve dates, plan your Mykonos wedding, coordinate all food and beverages and arrange transfers for you and your guests. Select from 203 rooms and 20 executive suites with balcony or terrace and outdoor Jacuzzi or private pool. Further options include in-room beauty and massage treatments and in-suite private dining.
Further information Explore your wedding or honeymoon venue choices from any of the group’s nine leading hotels and resorts by visiting: www.myconiancollection.com or email: events@myconiancollection.gr Weddings & Events Mykonos, Greece P.O. Box 64 Greece Tel: +30 22890 72000 Photography by: Christos Drazos, www.drazos.com & Vangelis, www.vangelisphotography.com
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Lesante Blu Honeymoon bliss in Zante
Zante is a stunning Greek island gem in the Ionian Sea that is simply breathtking. No wonder the new Lesante Blu is set to be a firm favourite for couples looking for a dream honeymoon destination – or the perfect place to say “I do.”
The island’s newest and most luxurious resort hotel, the Lesante Blu, opens in May 2017, to offer Zante’s ultimate romantic honeymoon haven. Surrounded by views of the sparkling blue sea, the hotel is a romantic paradise for both newlyweds and those looking for a wowfactor setting for their special day. Located in the picturesque village of Tragaki and boasting its own private secluded beach, the Lesante Blu is simply a one-of-a-kind experience offering exclusivity, peace of mind and 5-star comfort. This adults-only resort has intimate touches for couples, such as private pools, state-of-the-art suites and discreet staff. There’s an impressive array of facilities and activities on offer to ensure that guests are indulged throughout their stay, everything from the impeccable 24/7 room service to the guest’s private heliport, all add up to a unique and memorable experience.
Wining and dining At Lesante Blu you will find three exciting concept restaurants, each with an amazing view of the sea and all serving the finest creative dishes. Whether you choose to dine by the pool, the a la carte or the main restaurant, the hotel’s talented chefs prepare delicious food, inspired by authentic Mediterranean and Greek recipes, each adding an exciting twist to elevate every traditional recipe.
Spa and Wellness What could be more sublime, after the stresses of planning your big day, than some well-deserved, honeymoon spa pampering to relax and recharge your mind, body and soul? The Essence Wellness & Spa, with its indoor heated pool, sauna and hammam, offers a wide range of treatments for you to unwind and restore your energy in a haven of tranquility. Private sessions and VIP rooms, perfect for ‘his and her’ treatments, will help you to share this precious time with your loved one. For those keen to stay active, the Lesante Blu’s Fitness Centre offers a wide range of activities, including personal training, a fully equipped gym and a tennis court.
Weddings The Lesante Blu’s spectacular grounds create the ideal setting for intimate gatherings as well as grand-scale weddings. Whether you dream of a sophisticated garden ceremony, a barefoot venue at the beach, an elegant reception-style celebration in the stunning ballroom or by the state-of-the-art pool, Lesante Blu’s team of professional wedding co-ordinators will be proud to make your wedding vision come true, exactly the way you dreamed! They will guide you through your special day, from the first day of planning to the last detail of your honeymoon.
Honeymoon packages The resort is idyllic for honeymooners. Stroll around and you will discover romantic spots for sunset cocktails, seductive menus in candlelight dinners under the stars and a special selection of ‘his and her’ treatments at the Wellness Spa. The choices are endless. A complimentary Honeymoon Package at the hotel includes rose petals to decorate your bed upon arrival, a bottle of wine and fruit basket in your room and breakfast in your room on your first day, plus complimentary access to the spa. Couples can upgrade to the Deluxe Honeymoon Package and receive a bottle of Champagne and bouquet of flowers on arrival, breakfast in your room daily, honeymoon turndown service, complimentary couples massage, candlelit dinner for two and private Mercedes taxi airport transfers.
Further information Lesante Blu Tragkaki, Zakynthos 291 00, Greece T: (+30)26950 41330 E: info@lesanteblu.gr www.lesanteblu.gr
Explore the world!
THE PRICE IS RIGHT Fabulous low-cost honeymoons throughout the year
Weddings can be costly, so if you’ve spent most of your budget on your special day, then don’t worry, you can still have the honeymoon of your dreams at a price to suit your pocket. Momondo.co.uk, a free, independent travel search site that compares global prices on flights, hotels and car hire, has listed its favourite budget honeymoon destinations for 2017 that will break in your new suitcase without breaking your piggy bank!
JANUARY Sofia,
Bulgaria
Sofia is an idyllic getaway during winter time, when all the buildings wear a pristine snowy glow. After you’ve visited Sofia’s iconic golddomed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, strap on some ice skates at Ariana Lake. Each year the lake in Borisova Garden freezes and becomes a giant ice rink, accessible throughout the winter months and early spring. Surrounded by mountains, escape the city for a day to ride some snowy slopes. In a 30-minute drive, Vitosha Mountain is 118 www.BridesAbroad.com
Whatever time of year you are planning to take your honeymoon, they’ve recommended a choice of the best budget destinations that offer either culture, activity or simply sunny beaches for every month of the year. These destinations can offer you the best bang for your buck, leaving you with more spending money for those little extras that help to make your honeymoon extra special.
yours to conquer. January offers good skiing conditions – stay warm after a day on the snow at one of the many mineral spas in region.
Stay for a steel Stay within your budget at 3* Best Western Lozenetz Hotel from just £47 per room, per night. www.bestwestern.co.uk
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FEBRUARY
San Antonio, Texas, USA
Visitors to Texas usually head to Dallas, but we recommend San Antonio instead, the home of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo. The battle for independence from Mexico remains one of the city’s main attractions, so book a Battlefield Tour. Catch a rowdy rodeo or visit the Natural Bridge Caverns – two miles of underground tunnels. Stroll through the parks and landmarks of Hemisfair, including the Tower of Americas observation tower or the outdoor Market Square. Mariachi performances or Hispanic festivals bring to life foods and clothes stores that remind you how close you are to the Mexican border. No matter the season, San Antonio’s River Walk, lined with restaurant terraces and oozing with southern charm, comes alive in the warm evenings even throughout winter.
Stay for a steel Save the dollars with a stay at 3* Best Western Sunset Suites – Riverwalk from just £83 per room, per night. www.bestwestern.co.uk
MARCH
Valparaíso, Chile Go long-haul on a short-haul budget to Chile and step aboard the Artilleria funicular railway to take in the amazing view of the colonial UNESCO World Heritage city of Valparaíso. In Cerro Artillería, shops have everything you need for souvenirs like alpaca wool products and aquarelles. The hilly residential areas like Cerro Bellavista with its Museo a Cielo Abierto (an open air museum of murals) or Cierros Alegre and Concepcion with their painted houses are the perfect places to get a hint of the chaotic ambiance of the city. With temperatures around 23°C, the seaside is tempting. Head to Viña del Mar for sandy beaches and beachside bars. The season is perfect for wine harvest festivals, so winelovers should head along the ValparaísoSantiago Route 68, also known as the Casablanca Valley Wine Route, for a taste of the refined white wines of Casablanca Valley.
Stay for a steel Low on cost, but high on comfort, 3* Hotel Da Vinci Valparaíso’s rates start from £92 per room, per night. www.hoteldavincivalparaiso.cl www.BridesAbroad.com 119
APRIL
Braga, Portugal
Plan ahead if coming to Braga during Semana Santa (the week before Easter) – hotels get booked up, but the festivities are well worth spending a little extra budget. Just outside of the city at Tenões, join the pilgrims zig-zagging up the hill to the baroque-style church Bom Jesus do Monte (Good Jesus of the mount). Take the funicular home – it links the sanctuary and the city of Braga and dates back to 1882. Braga has all the charm of old-town Portugal with the perks of a youthful university city. The 12th century Sé de Braga (Cathedral of Braga) is the country’s oldest cathedral – the Cathedral’s towers overlook the narrow streets, which are lined with restaurants and bars. Scattered throughout old town, peek into one of the many chapels, the Capela dos Coimbras (Chapel of the Coimbras) to see a typical azulejo fresco.
Stay for a steel We recommended 3* Albergaria da Sé, with room rates from £54 per room, per night. www.albergaria-da-se.com
MAY
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain Beach, sun, and Spanish cuisine – what more could you ask for? Work up an appetite with a seaside stroll along Paseo de las Canteras that hugs the beach by the same name. Bathing is high on the agenda in Las Palmas, especially at low tide when the reef, known as La Barra, transforms Las Canteras into snorkeler’s paradise. Take the Avenida Maritima that leads to the fishing village San Cristóbal, which is said to have the best seafood eateries in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Enjoy the pedestrianised streets like Triana and Pérez Gáldos for shopping, or head to Vegueta, the oldest quarter, for an afternoon refreshment.
Stay for a steel Find great value for money at 3* Hotel Apartamento Bajamar from just £51per room, per night. www.hotelapartmentoslaspalmas.com
JUNE
Yerevan, Armenia
Give in to the minibus chaos to criss-cross your way through the city – for 100 Dram, and a loudly shouted “stop!” you’ll be dropped off at Yerevan’s prized monuments. The pedestrian Northern Avenue takes you from the opera to the fountains at Republic Square. Imposing Soviet era buildings by day, elegant backdrop to a light and water show at night, the Republic Square is inevitably a must-see. Enjoy the long summer nights in the pink city (nicknamed after the pinkish stones of the buildings) at the café terraces, while snacking on lamehjun (Armenian-style pizza). Rebuilt to hide the scars of wars and natural disasters, most of Yerevan’s current attire is only a century old. Yerevan’s oldest heritage lies along the outskirts of the city where the Hrazdan River and deep gorge create a natural border.
Stay for a steel Take the economical choice and stay at 3* My Hotel Yerevan with room rates from £61 per room, per night. www.myhotelyerevan.com 120 www.BridesAbroad.com
JULY
Belfast, Northern Ireland As you wander around Belfast by foot or in a Black Taxi, you’ll discover the colourful history of Belfast, along with its unique culture – you won’t be able to miss the peace lines (walls between Protestant and Catholic neighbourhoods) and commemorative murals. You’ll also see many reminders of Belfast’s shipbuilding history – don’t miss the Titanic Belfast, tribute to the launching of the Titanic in 1912, and the Titanic Memorial on the grounds by City Hall. In the July sun, grab a famous Belfast Bap (round bread sandwich) from St George’s Market and join the office workers on their lunch break sprawled across the grass. End the day with a chilled pint at Kelly’s Cellars, the oldest traditional pub in Belfast, complete with live Irish traditional music.
Stay for a steel Bag a bargain at 3* Ibis Belfast Queens Quarter with rates starting at £62 per room, per night. www.accorhotels.com
AUGUST
Lviv, Ukraine
Wrapped in the warm breeze of a Ukrainian summer, explore the streets of Lviv as they lead you to the heart of the city. It’s here at Rynok Square that you’ll find people cooling off by the four fountains adorned with figures of Greek and Roman mythology. Only a few steps away, the wings of the Chapel of the Boim Family shelter coffee shop terraces – make sure to go to (Coffee World) for its varieties of coffee and cosy interior. Folklore and legends hide around each street – the Lviv Opera is said to have cost its architect his life when he was so ashamed that the structure sunk by half a metre on inauguration day. Carried by the sounds of street performances, float through the city centre and up to Lviv Castle hill for a view over the city’s rooftops.
Stay for a steel For a comfortable stay that won’t cost the earth, choose 3* George Hotel Lviv. Rates start from £21 per room, per night. www.georgehotel.com.ua
SEPTEMBER
Pristina, Kosovo
Kosovo and its capital, Pristina, are free from tourism, rich in tradition and are focused on writing their history as a recognized state. Grab a macchiato (a good cup of coffee) at the bookshop Dit’ e Nat’ before going to the neighbourhood north of the city centre, lined with mosques and the old clock tower, remnant of the Ottoman Empire rule. In front of the Palace of Youth and Sports, the “Newborn” typographic sculpture unveiled after Kosovo’s independence from Serbia in 2008 is painted each year in representation of current events. From Grand Hotel Pristina’s rooftop bar, 13 Rooftop, catch a view over the city’s National Library – once housing refugees of the Yogoslav wars and serving as a control centre for the Serbian Army. The style of the structure of domes and metal, a blend of Byzantine and Islamic architecture, is arguably an attempt to reconcile Serbians and Albanians by injecting style references from both cultures.
Stay for a steel For excellent budget accommodation, 4* Hotel Denis rates are from £30 per night. www.hotel-denis.com www.BridesAbroad.com 121
OCTOBER
Panama City, Panama
First thing to do when you arrive in Panama City is hop on a boat through the famous canal, floating under the Bridge of Americas, built as part of the Pan-American Highway connecting the North and South Americas. On land, meander through the UNESCO World Heritage Site ruins of Old Town Panama, victim of total destruction in 1671 to “save” the city from a pirate attack. You can still see the city’s foundations and cathedral tower, but a scale model of the city at the Visitor’s Centre gives you the full picture. Panama’s riches lie in its biodiversity – a cable car ride through the jungle of nearby Gamboa or a visit to the colourful Biomuseo Place to see Panama’s spectacular nature in centre stage. October is the beginning of the rainy season, so seize any chance you get to enjoy the rays of sun on Panama City’s postcard perfect beaches.
Stay for a steel You don’t have to pay a fortune to stay at 3* Montreal Hotel Panama City – rates start from £47 per room, per night. wwwhotelmontrealpanama.com
NOVEMBER
Kalamata, Greece Start your visit to Kalamata via the shores of the Mediterranean. Sea kayak along the cliffs and by rock formations, taking breaks to dip into the warm waters of the Messinian gulf. In-between beach breaks, visit Kalamata’s historical centre, wandering through the gardens leading up to Kalamata Castle on the hill dominating the city. To make the most of the last warm nights of autumn, join the crowds on Latropoulou pedestrian street for a late night snack – the lalagia, sweet fried dough strips will do just the trick! Olive-lovers rejoice – Kalamata, as its name suggests, is home to the Kalamata olive harvested from endless fields of olive trees that cover this area of the Peloponnese peninsula. So be sure to shop for local olive products to bring home.
Stay for a steel Keep to your budget by staying at the 3* Galaxy Hotel Kalamata. Rates start from £43 per room, per night. www.hotel-galaxy.gr
DECEMBER
Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina Hosts of the Winter Olympics in 1984, Sarajevo knows how to do winter. If snow has started falling in December, skiiers can catch the slopes on Mount Jahorina and rent equipment at an affordable price, so skiing couples looking for a bargain need look no further! On sunny winter days, sit at a terrace in Baarija, Sarajevo’s historical Ottoman city centre. Reminders of the Siege of Sarajevo in 1992 are inevitable as you visit the city – learn about the recent war by visiting the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, it was built around the tunnel that was a vital artery in supplying occupied Sarajevo with food and medical care. Adventurous couples can hike through Bosnia’s natural landscape to Lukomir, a remote village on the Bjelasnica Mountain. Stone houses roofed in wooden tiles are homes to a small community specialising in sheep-herding, wool sock kitting, and wood carving. During the summer months, sustainable tours are offered with Green Visions to spend time with local families.
Stay for a steel For an affordable hotel, the 3*Telal Hotel Sarajevo offers rates starting at £58 per room, per night. www.telal-hotel.sarajevohotels.org/en 122 www.BridesAbroad.com
Log on to www.momondo.co.uk to find the best deals from all the major hotel and booking sites
Heaven or Paradise?
You choose!
For the ultimate wedding and honeymoon in Mauritius, these are the only two addresses you need to know!
THE WESTIN TURTLE BAY RESORT & SPA MAURITIUS
Call: (230) 204 1400 www.westinturtlebaymauritius.com
Call: (230) 403 9000 www.stregismauritius.com