Bridal Guide Nov Dec 2025

BRIDALGUIDE.COM

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2025

75

500+ ALL NEW WEDDING IDEAS

Smart Ways to Slash Spending

glow!

Gowns that Will Steal Your Heart

FACE THE DAY WITH PERFECT SKIN!

Dreamy Destinations For a Perfect Getaway

JUST ENGAGED? WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED

FR O M THIS DAY FO RWARD

IDEAL FOR “I DO” South Walton has a way of sweeping you off your feet from the moment you meet. It ’s not one thing–it ’s ever y detail. Natural beauty combined with luxurious amenities, stunning venues infused with extraordinar y hospitality, and breathtaking beaches that inspire both serenity and celebration. Savor your occasion in the paradise that loves you back.

VisitSouthWalton.com/Weddings

Now that you’ve found your forever person, you’ll need a forever place. South Walton’s timeless natural beauty provides a perfect backdrop for your big day and for many memories yet to come. There’s a feeling of familiarity that sets you at ease. Gather friends and family to join in celebrating the start of ever a er.

MIRAMAR BEACH • SEASCAPE • SANDESTIN • DUNE ALLEN • GULF PLACE • SANTA ROSA BEACH • BLUE MOUNTAIN BEACH GRAYTON BEACH • WATERCOLOR • SEASIDE • SEAGROVE • WATERSOUND • SEACREST • ALYS BEACH • ROSEMARY BEACH • INLET BEACH

FOR NEAREST AUTHORIZED SALON PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT: www.eveofmiladybridals.com

CONTENTS NOV / DEC 2025

FASHION & BEAUTY 8 COVER STYLE

How to get that beautiful look.

10 MOOD BOARD

The perfect wedding-day purse.

12 BEAUTY FILE

Achieve complexion perfection with these skin polishers.

14 ALL THAT GLITTERS

Charms and medallions that tell your story.

16 OUR FRIENDS ARE YOUR FRIENDS

Meet designer Giovanna Randall of Honor.

42 DRAMA QUEEN Go ahead, steal the spotlight.

58 ON LOCATION

North Fork weddings rule.

PAGE 42

000 BRIDALGUIDE.COM month/month 2010

• The Perfect Dress for Your Body, p. 187 • 10 Gorgeous Hairstyles for Night, p. 202 • 101 Best Budget Tips, p. 166 • Make It Personal: Reception Ideas To Suit Your Theme, p. 68 • Aisle Style: Fabulous Ceremony, p. 207 • Celeb Rings! Get the Look, p. 92 • Cheers! Ways to Trim the Bar Bill, p. 164

CAPTION HERE

DRAMA QUEEN

Mary Clarke

EDITOR IN CHIEF ART DIRECTOR Mary Cate Godfrey

FASHION AND BEAUTY

FASHION AND BEAUTY DIRECTOR Juli Alvarez

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HOME DESIGN

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ART

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BRIDALGUIDE.COM

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Bridal Guide magazine (Vol. 41, No.6, November/December 2025 ISSN 0882-7451) is published bimonthly by RFP Corp., 1333A North Avenue #706, New Rochelle, NY 10804; 212-838-7733. Copyright © 2025 by RFP Corp.

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CONTENTS NOV/DEC 2025

WEDDING PLANNING 20 PARTY PLANNER A chic Kentucky wedding.

24 PLANNERS WE LOVE We spotlight some of our favorite wedding geniuses. by Carol Straley

get more online at

90

28 YOUR WEEKEND WEDDING PLANNER Our ultimate guide to putting it all together. by Lynne Kendall Lawson

TRAVEL NEWS

36 WEDDING ALBUM An art- and music-filled Texas wedding.

NEWS & FEATURES 7

32 75 BEST BUDGET TIPS A stylish wedding can be yours— without sacrifice. by Kristen Finello

UNFORGETTABLE CENTERPIECES Choose your perfect table decor with the advice at bridalguide.com/centerpiece

68 RESORT ROUNDUP

WEDDING HAIR INSPO Discover the hairstyle of your dreams at bridalguide.com/ hairstyle

70 THE DISH Puerto Rico and the birth of the piña colada.

ENGAGEMENT PHOTO IDEAS Capture your unique love story with the ideas at bridalguide.com/engagement

Luxe global camping, er, glamping.

79 WEDDINGS AWAY Come with us to Panama City and beyond. by Diane Forden

WEDDING Q&A Etiquette questions and answers.

bridalguide.com

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86 DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT A few of the many things we love about The Bahamas.

88 DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT Here’s why the island of Barbados deserves a place in the sun.

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90 REAL DESTINATION WEDDING Michelle & Johnny’s charming Amagansett wedding.

94 FIRST LOOK Costa Rica’s Nayara Gardens.

00 000 BRIDALGUIDE.COM month/month 2010

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etiquette ADVICE

A Q Wedding

&

Straight talk, smart solutions

by Mary Clarke, Editor in Chief

PARTY TIMELINE

Q

We’d like to make sure that the first dances, toasts and cake cutting all proceed in a timely fashion at our reception.

Is there a specific guideline to follow for scheduling these activities?

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHANNON SKLOSS PHOTOGRAPHY

A

It really depends on how long your reception will be, but it’s a good idea to plan ahead so everything runs smoothly.

With a reception lasting four hours or longer you can schedule things at a more leisurely pace than you would for a shorter event. And once you’ve mapped out exactly what you’d like to do when, let your maître d’, DJ and other wedding pros know. Keep in mind that your reception site manager and wedding planner (if you have one) can assist with planning and pacing as well.

To help get you started, here’s a basic timeline of scheduled events for a four-hour reception. Hour one: Bride, groom, attendants and family pose for wedding pictures. The receiving line (if you’re having one) is formed at the cocktail hour as the bridal party arrives, and drinks and hors d’oeuvres are served. Hour two: Guests take their seats for the first course, kicked off by the best man’s champagne toast. The maid of honor and the couple’s parents can also say a few words. During this hour, some couples like to have their first dance, followed by the father-daughter and mother-son dances.

Hour three: Other couples prefer having first dance and other dances at this time. The main course is served and guests mingle and dance. Hour four: The cake is cut and served.

The bride tosses her bouquet and the party winds down (or an after-party commences).

Remember, these are just guidelines.

You’re free to schedule your reception in

whatever way you like. Some couples, for example, like to take their formal portraits before the ceremony and not during the cocktail hour. Other couples prefer having a receiving line right after the ceremony instead of at the cocktail hour or to greet guests at the reception. Whatever you decide, plan your party in a way that’s most natural and comfortable for you and your groom.

affordable. If she’s not registered, you could ask her family or bridesmaids if they know of anything the couple needs for their home.

Another thought: Consider sending her a gift card for a pre-wedding spa treatment.

PROCESSIONAL POINTERS

DINNER DILEMMA

Q A

On our engagement party invitations, is it appropriate to let guests know where we have registered for gifts?

The groom’s parents precede the bride’s mother during the processional. Here’s a rundown: After the ushers have seated all of the guests, the graandparents start up the aisle followed by the groom’s parents. Then the bride’s mother takes her turn. She is the last to be seated before the bridal party procession begins.

GIFT REQUIRED?

Q

I’ve been invited to a bridal shower that I won’t be able to attend. Do I still need to send a gift and if so, how much should I spend?

A

Yes, you should send a gift, but as far as how much to spend really depends on your budget and how close you are to the bride. There are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to shower gift costs and the brideto-be will surely appreciate whatever you give. Take a look at her registry: Most brides sign up for a variety of items in all price ranges so you’re very likely to find something

Q

My fiancé’s parents are divorced and neither has remarried. Who should host the rehearsal dinner—his mom or his dad?

A

The best scenario is to have both parents host and split the expenses— provided they’re on equal financial footing.

If this situation isn’t monetarily practical, then your fiancé can speak with the parent who is in better financial shape to see if he or she might be willing to pick up the tab, or at least a majority of it, while the other parent contributes what they can afford. If your budget allows, you and your fiancé can even throw your own rehearsal dinner and still have his parents “host” if that makes you more comfortable. Keep in mind that the dinner does not have to be held in an expensive venue, and that you can tailor it to fit your budget.

››› Go to bridalguide.com/QA for more etiquette advice. And send your planning questions to us at mail@bridalguide.com.

Nov/Dec 2025 BRIDALGUIDE.COM 7

cover style

“

PHOTOGRAPHER KOUROSH SOTOODEH; MAKEUP: CHARLOTTE WILLER @ HOME; HAIR: NIKO WEDDLE @ JUDY CASEY; STYLING ASSISTANT: AVITAL SHIMON

—EVE OF MILADY

easy glamour EVE OF MILADY KNOWS A THING OR TWO ABOUT THE DRAMA OF A DRESS.

“

E

asy glamour sounds like an oxymoron, but is it though? Two words that rarely go together effortlessly encapsulate our cover girl, Aysia in this full-on, glamour gown. Her 100 watt smile, natural beauty, and comfortablein-her-own-skin vibes give us a reason to champion owning the big day, your way.

You know who else does the big day, her way? The inimitable Eve of Eve of Milady, that’s who.

Big, juicy ballgowns, body-con silhouettes, and a fearless combination of couture laces, embroideries and ultra feminine fabrics all come together for the bride who is sure of herself and of her own easy glamour. Eve’s collection reflects the confident, the self-assured; the bride who knows exactly who she is and what she wants for her wedding day - to slip into the most fabulous dress in the universe that feels like home.

AT THE HEART OF IT ALL? LOVE. I DESIGN FROM PASSION, BLENDING EXQUISITE DETAIL WITH EMOTION— TO CREATE THE ONE GOWN SHE’LL NEVER FORGET.

in full bloom

No wedding day look is complete without a stunning bouquet—and our friends at Élan Flowers never miss the moment.

For our cover shoot, Élan Flowers designed a romantic, fall-inspired arrangement with a hint of drama.

The bouquet featured a rich mix of quicksand and toffee roses, clematis, scabiosa, cotinus, seeded eucalyptus, white Majolika spray roses, dried floral accents, purple phalaenopsis orchids, and cascading red and green amaranths—all blooms thoughtfully chosen for their yearround availability.

“Most brides come to us with a color palette, but it’s their personal point of view that truly brings the bouquet to life. We’re inspired by expressive words—whimsy, drama, classic, ephemeral, vibrant—that help us tell a unique story. From there, we consider the dress and setting to craft a design that’s unforgettable.”

— Christine Hall, Co-Owner of Élan Flowers

on the cover Sheer lace bodice gown with layered tulle skirt, price upon request, by EVE OF MILADY BRIDALS. 18K white gold and diamond drop earrings and ring with baguette and round diamonds, both

by DENA KEMP.

mood board PURSE

TAKES THE CAKE Victoria Sponge Clutch Bag by JW ANDERSON.

FULL CIRCLE Mini Abacus Tote Bag by JW PEI.

LUCKY STAR Métiers D’Art Star Minaudiere by CHANEL.

HEART’S DESIRE Heart Mini faux pearl embellished clutch by SELF PORTRAIT.

CREATURE COMFORT Tortoise clutch with pearl strap by SIMONE ROCHA.

HOLD IT

Tiny, precious, impractical to a fault, but nonetheless fabulous to within an inch of its life. Your wedding-day bag should be a reflection of your personality, hold lipstick and breath mints, nothing more and nothing less. Let’s face it, no bride needs to drag a purse around, but having and holding one of these striking objects of affection is the epitome of icing on the (wedding) cake.

TUFT LOVE Glam Slam embroidered clutch

by MAISON MARGIELA.

GILD THE LILY Marbled vase Florence Clutch by CULT GAIA.

OUTSIDE THE BOX Leather pastry box bag by MOSCHINO.

THE CAT’S PAJAMAS Le Chat de La Maison minaudière by VALENTINO GARAVANI. 10 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025

JAS I G N AT U R E .C O M

beauty file SKIN

Fresh, youthful skin is the result of many things—good skincare habits, a healthy lifestyle, a balanced gut, and yes, genetics. Despite all the negative factors that impact our skin as we age, skincare advancements have the power to delay and improve our complexions with minimal effort. One easy action that yields immediate results is regular exfoliation. By sloughing off dead skin cells, makeup, and debris that cleansing misses, exfoliating instantly brightens, smoothes, and reveals softer, fresher skin. This ancient beauty ritual should be integral to your routine—there's nothing like a good scrub to make your skin look and feel great.

A GOOD SCRUB

FRESH FACE

Soaked in glycolic acid and PHA’s, these gentle exfoliating pads remove impurities and refresh your skin like nobody’s business. Your Favorite Ex Exfoliating Pads by YSE BEAUTY.

IN THE CLEAR

Perfect for sensitive and acne skin types, this light liquid exfoliant treats sluggish, oily complexions and visible pores. Plantastic Micropeeling Super Drops by BEAUTY PIE.

SKIN DEEP

This anti-aging, vitamin-enriched liquid exfoliant provides a nourishing, revitalizing treatment that leaves skin brighter and more hydrated. Lotion P50V

by BIOLOGIQUE RECHERCHE.

SCENTSATIONAL

A creamy formula infused with fine exfoliating grains and a luscious earthy scent turns skincare into a calming ritual. Perfect for dry skin & frequent travelers. Purifying Facial Exfoliant Paste

by AĒSOP.

DOWN & DIRTY

An earthy blend of clay, spice, salt and actives combine for a transformative exfoliating treatment.

The Clean Dirt by MAY LINDSTROM SKIN.

POLISHED

A liquid exfoliating mask rich in plant based ingredients and science-backed actives gently removes dead skin cells and refreshes tired skin. Élixir Exfoliant by FRENCH FARMACIE.

12 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025

DRY GOOD

We love this plant-based powder formula that turns milky with water for a purifying, satisfying scrub. Exfoliating Milk Powder by EMBRYOLISSE.

all that glitters PENDANTS

HEAVY MEDAL

Charms, medallions, symbols, talismans. Call them what you will, but each of these dazzling pendants carries the weight of expression, signifiers of love, relationships, milestones, and personality. The possibilities create endless opportunities to steep deep-meaning into adornment, offering a uniquely honest vibe-check and window to your authentic (delightfully decked-out) self.

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Nov/Dec 2025 BRIDALGUIDE.COM 15

profile| giovanna randall

OUR FRIENDS ARE YOUR FRIENDS Join us in conversation with some of our favorite people in the wedding biz. We’re so inspired by these incredible talents and their unique vision.

Because our friends are your friends too, please welcome Giovanna Randall of HONOR.

BG: Hello Giovanna. Dare we say how much we

sketchpad and redesign it.

truly adore your vision of the modern bride?

BG: Many of your designs are in breathtakingly

We’re seriously fan-girling right now. Your

light fabrics, but you also punctuate your

collections tap into a cool, luxe sophistication

collections with velvet, satin, and metallic

but are also incredibly sweet and romantic.

elements. What are your favorite fabrics to

What’s your secret sauce?

work with and why?

GR: Hello! Hm…I’m hungry now. Ha! Well, when

GR: Well, I don’t want to make other fabrics

I (or one of the talented members of my design

jealous, so I can’t really answer that question

team) present a gown, it has to satisfy a number

specifically. I will say that it has to feel amazing

of qualities to make it into the collection.

and look as amazing as it feels. I want my gowns

“Am I jealous of this bride because I wish I got

to look like the tactile experience with them

to wear this for my wedding instead?”

would be just as dreamy as the visual experience.

■

“Is it unexpected enough?”

Combining opposing textures to help the fabrics

■

“Is the fabric deliciously dreamy, and will it look

complement each other is part of that process.

deliciously dreamy in photographs?”

BG: If you could dress any bride from any point

“Do I see it dancing down the aisle on someone

in history, who would she be?

amazing?”

GR: Okay….confession…I think Karen O is the

BG: What made you choose wedding fashion?

dreamiest. I just saw Yeah Yeah Yeahs perform

GR: I kid you not, it was something I started doing

recently, and they were just as amazing as the

when I was about six years old. I guess

time I saw them in 2013. Yes, I know she’s already

I always loved the idea that every bride would

married, and I think she looked very lovely then

■

■

have their moment in the sun. I love film,

and she’s the coolest, but in a fantasy world, I

photography, paintings—really all visual media.

would love to make her dress.

If there was ever a gown to be featured, no

BG: Does film, art, literature, and music play

matter how lame the production of a movie with

a role in how and what you design?

a wedding in it, I would have to see it. When it

GR: Yes! Those who know me well will tell you

came to the moment the gown was revealed,

that I often dream in films, meaning I write movies

I was usually dissatisfied, so I would get out my

in my mind. Sometimes those movies are filled

16 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025

with amazing gowns. I’m also a daydreamer, and

it anywhere else.

anything that opens an escape into a flexible

BG: You design two wedding and bespoke

world of creativity is fair game.

collections a year. Any plans to add

BG: Where does the name HONOR come from?

accessories, fine jewelry, beauty or other

GR: When I founded the company, I thought

goodies to the brand?

about using my name for about a minute, but

GR: Yes, and they will debut on our website in

seeing Giovanna Randall printed everywhere was

the near future.

too self-aggrandizing for me. I chose HONOR

BG: What styling advice can you give to brides

because not only is it a strong and meaningful

who are thinking about veils, shoes, and all

word, but it also happens to be my sister’s name.

the accoutrements?

For a dress to wear the label HONOR, it has to be

GR: When your shoes peek out from under the

precious, loved, and dear to my heart.

hem, they should make you smile. Have the

BG: What’s your favorite part of the design

most fun! Entertain yourself, but don’t let the

process?

accessories take over. You are the very best part

GR: There are so many great moments in the

of the whole look, after all.

cycle of every collection, but the highlights are

BG: Thong, brief, or big-girl panty?

when all the stars align, whether it’s a bride’s

GR: Ha! For me or a bride? Let’s keep my 100%

face lighting up when she’s chosen her gown,

cotton underpinnings out of the conversation,

or the inspiration coming to fruition in just the

but if there’s a gust of wind and a skirt involved,

right way in a final sample. Getting to work with

I promise I’ve got cute bloomers on. If your

the most talented people through all steps of

undies are going to show under your wedding

the process is a privilege, and I am humbled by

dress, vintage-style high-waisted, lace knickers

their abundant talent on a daily basis. I really

are an absolute must.

love this job.

BG: If you had a crystal ball, where do you

BG: What is an HONOR bride looking for when

think fashion for the bride is headed?

she comes to you for her wedding gown?

GR: Honestly, it’s a good thing I don’t have a

GR: I’m not sure it’s something tangible, but

crystal ball right now because I would surely be

I hear again and again that they couldn’t find

obsessed with it. ■ 17

Sandals.com | 1-877-Sandals or Call Your Travel Advisor

Sandals® is a registered trademark. Unique Vacations, Inc. is an affiliate of Unique Travel Corp.,the worldwide representative of Sandals Resorts. 51/0725

Meet your new wedding planner, the Caribbean.

Imagine breathtaking backdrops, soothing steel pan drums, vibrant island florals, and flavors that captivate your tastebuds.

Hear yourself saying “I do” at a beach ceremony infused with the warmth and joy of the Caribbean. We have everything you need to make your wedding uniquely your own, let us help you make it unforgettable.

A Caribbean Aisle Here’s the scene: the sand is soft, the ocean breeze is laced with salt and sunlight, and just steps away, the Caribbean Sea glitters like it’s celebrating too.

Ten years ago, Imani and D’Andre met at a party at Rutgers where sparks flew, but the timing wasn’t right. So they stayed friends, tethered by something invisible and steady. A decade later, that same tie led them to Jamaica — a place that already felt like home, especially for D’Andre, who was born there.

On the shores of Sandals® South Coast, down walk Imani and D’Andre over an aisle of sand perfectly framed by the ocean. They were wrapped in sunlight, surrounded by the people who knew their story best. Imani had dreamed of the perfect wedding since her childhood — soft light,

ocean breeze, florals just so. The Sandals Wedding Team made it all come together.

From mood board to final bloom, every petal was in its place.

When D’Andre saw her, he was breathless, and the whole world seemed to pause.

In the Caribbean, stress-free isn’t a bonus: it’s how we do things.

Our team handles every detail, from first call to first kiss, with local know-how and island care. You and your guests can just show up and soak it in.

Imani and D’Andre let love lead and it brought them here.

Your forever can start in the Caribbean too. All you have to do is say yes.

Sandals.com | 1-877-Sandals or Call Your Travel Advisor Sandals® is a registered trademark. Unique Vacations, Inc. is an affiliate of Unique Travel Corp., the worldwide representative of Sandals Resorts. 52/0725

party planner RECEPTION

La Vida es un Carnaval!

ERIKA & BEN’S WEDDING EMBODIED THEIR CHOSEN MOTTO, “LIFE IS A CARNIVAL!” PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE MALICOTES

20 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025

When Dr. Erika Almodovar and Ben Strevy envisioned their wedding reception, they wanted one thing above all: comfortable luxury where guests could truly celebrate. The couple, who met on Hinge just days before the pandemic hit Kentucky, found their perfect match at The Apiary, in Lexington.

“We wanted a wedding where guests felt comfortable to truly celebrate with us,” explains Erika, a general surgeon who was completing her residency at the University of Kentucky while planning the wedding. Ben, a venture capital principal, shared her vision for an elevated yet relaxed celebration.

The Apiary’s culinary and design teams delivered on the couple’s vision, serving elevated Puerto Rican cuisine that earned approval from Erika’s grandmother, alongside mozzarella sticks with melba sauce as passed appetizers—a nod to Ben’s upstate New York roots. The bilingual ceremony, conducted in both Spanish and English, ensured every guest felt included in their love story. Quirky touches abounded. Ben, a devoted Star Wars and LEGO enthusiast, was surprised with LEGO flowers at their sweetheart table and the iconic Star Wars theme as their recessional song. Even when a guest fainted after the ceremony, Erika didn't hesitate to sit on the floor in her wedding dress to provide medical assistance. Says the bride: “It felt incredibly special to be surrounded by love.”

Venue + Catering: The Apiary, Lexington, KY Planning: Amber Bowling @miss_amberb Photography: @the_malicotes _ Design: Mea Vaughan at The Apiary Florals: @druryfloral Cake: @_kristenskreations Invitations: @wouldntitbelovely Gown: @twirlbridal Linens, glassware: @bryantsrentall Beauty: April Singleton Hair, Makeup by Sarah Lynn DJ: @2tenentertainment

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Planners We L ve Take inspiration from these creative forces as we spotlight the best in the business. by Carol Straley Meaghan Cody

Owner and lead planner, Sweet Pea Events, Dallas, TX

Our Rep

• “We’re entrusted with one of the most meaningful days in someone’s life, and our goal is always to advocate for our clients, help them feel seen and supported, and ensure they enjoy the entire experience.”

• “We also take great pride in taking care of our vendors, because they’re a huge part of making all of our events such a success.”

Tiers of joy.

Our Signature Style

• “We always want our weddings to reflect each couple in an authentic and fun way. Your first date was over cheddar fries? Let’s recreate them for the wedding night. Your biggest relationship debate is over the correct way to serve a Martini? Let’s build a Martini bar inspired by that! Each detail should tell a story.”

My Team’s Superpower

• “Staying extremely calm and positive in the most extreme situations. We keep our cool, even when the officiant is MIA, the cake takes a tumble in transit, or the bar is dangerously low on the bride’s favorite vodka.”

Going the Extra Mile

• “Your sister has a newborn and wants to get out on the dance floor?

24 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025

So happy together.

Big-city chic.

PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) SHANNON SKLOSS PHOTOGRAPHY; JENNA MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY; JENNIFER YARBRO PHOTOGRAPHY

A

s far back as her highschool days, when she was the go-to person for organizing friends’ birthday parties, pep rallies and, as she puts it, “any excuse for a celebration,” Meaghan Cody has shown that she was born to shine in the event-planning world. “So, when it came time to consider a career, the events industry felt like a natural fit,” says Meaghan.

In 2010 Meaghan joined the team at Dallas, Texas-based Sweet Pea Events, originally launched in 2007 by Kelly Simants. “I quickly fell in love with weddings, and never looked back!” Come 2018. Meaghan purchased the company from Kelly, and has been leading the charge there ever since, creating weddings that today have an average guest count of 175 to 225 guests.

PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) JENNIFER YARBRO PHOTOGRAPHY; SARAH BLAZE PHOTOGRAPHY; CAMERA SHI PHOTOGRAPHY; JENNA MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY; SHANNON SKLOSS PHOTOGRAPHY

On ice.

Places, please.

In living color.

Support system.

A stellar finale.

We’ll rock the baby while she enjoys a few dances. Groom’s aunt broke her shoe strap on her way into the chapel? We’ll fix it.”

• “And we’ll always make sure our vendors get a slice of cake, even the valet! ”

Mantra for Motivation

• “We’re always reminding ourselves that we’re ‘making dreams happen.’ It’s our little mantra that helps ground us and push us through even the longest days.”

Best Advice I’ve Taken

• “ ‘There’s always a solution for everything!’ We just may have to think a little harder, and outside of our norm to make things happen. The pandemic was a big testament to that as we had to pivot and pivot to make sure our clients’ dreams came to life.”

My Favorite Part of Wedding Planning

• “My absolute favorite part of the entire process is when we get to show the clients their reception a few minutes before the doors open for guests. Seeing their reactions and giving them a few minutes to just take in the day—it’s the most rewarding part of the entire process. We LIVE for that moment!”

Dream Destinations

• “We love a fun destination wedding giving you the opportunity to celebrate with your people all weekend in a fun location. Hot destinations right now include Santa Fe, San Miguel de Allende and Colorado.”

Fresh greens.

Biggest Learning

• “This past year I’ve spent a lot of time learning how the next generation buys and what they look for when hiring a vendor for their wedding. I’ve had to dig deep into resources I’m not as familiar with, and now read more Reddit threads than ever before.”

Looking Ahead

• “We’re excited about all of our 2025 and 2026 clients, and plans for expanding more into the destination market. Personally, I love hosting in my home and celebrating the most random holidays (you better believe my friends are all getting a copy of this feature at Piesgiving this year), so just continuing to celebrate life!”

• “I’m also looking into building an online platform that helps bring joy to people going through grief.” ➺ 25

Planners We L ve Lisa Jaroscak

Owner and creative director, Elegante Weddings & Events, Chicago, IL

Our Rep

• “On the couples’ side, I think that they love how invested we are in developing the vision for their wedding celebration and our dedication to bringing it to life.”

• “On the vendor side, we consistently hear from people that they love working with us because we are professional, communicative and considerate of their needs.”

What Inspires Us

• “Our biggest inspiration comes from who our couples are as people, and what gets them to light up in the creative process. Learning who your couples are, and what they enjoy in their everyday lives and as a couple, is the inspiration for how their big day should look and feel.”

Mr. & Mrs.

Into the blue.

Our Mantra

• “ ‘Celebrating is our lifestyle.’ It is our mantra, and describes how we live our lives alongside our couples and with the people in our lives.”

My Team’s Superpower

• “Anticipating what can make things even better without the client even knowing it’s happening.”

Why I Love Weddings

• “There will never be another event where this group of humans will ever be together again, and it is so important to be aware of the greatness in that. It 26 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025

Save the date.

PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISEPHY FROM TOP) LISA CHIN PHOTOGRAPHY; MOLLY MCCAULEY PHOTOGRAPHY; OLIVER FLY PHOTOGRAPHY; MOLLY MCCAULEY

F

rom her beginnings orchestrating stellar events for the music and festival industry to opening her own upscale restaurant, Shore Club Chicago, on the banks of Lake Michigan, Lisa Jaroscak showed a singular flair for relationship building, an invaluable skill that would serve her well when she launched her own Chicago-based luxury wedding and social events planning business, Elegante Weddings & Events. “I have been planning weddings since 2013, and I fell in love with the personal relationships that wedding planning creates with people,” Jaroscak says. “You are welcomed into such an important moment in people’s lives, and I love getting to be a part of creating that milestone with them, and then watching everyone enjoy such an important celebration.”

In neutral.

First dance.

PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LFT) COLLIN PIERSON PHOTOGRAPHY; ANNA ROUSSOS; LINDSEY KAY PHOTOGRAPHY; ADOVASIO PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO ; PERRY VAILEPHOTOGRAPHY

is profound, and it is important to remind yourself that that is why we do what we do.”

Secret to Success

BFFs.

• “Empathy. We always want to meet a couple where they are. It is one of the fundamentals of who we are as planners.”

• “We never want a couple to feel like we only do one type of wedding, or that it’s a cookie cutter process. We are there for THEM in this moment in their lives.”

My Favorite Part of Wedding Planning

• “Our couples! We love the relationships that we create with them throughout planning such a personal milestone in their lives. We feel so grateful to be side by side with them in creating a celebration that will be remembered and coveted for many years to come.”

Memorable Moments

Topiary details.

On the rocks.

• “For a wedding last December, our couple’s first look was so incredible.

I had the opportunity to ride in the Rolls-Royce with my beautiful bride to the first look with her groom. When we arrived, she was so excited, and when she walked towards the groom, she became incredibly emotional. It such a memorable moment for me.”

Favorite Wedding Tradition

• “Change of Look. I love a bold ceremony dress that has more drama to it and then either a reception dress or after-party dress that is a bit more form-fitting and fun.”

A Word to Our Couples

• “There is no ‘one way’ that a wedding should be. While there can sometimes be pressure or stress, a wedding is a joyful occasion to celebrate a great love story that is just beginning. It is supposed to be fun, and you are supposed to feel comfortable in your choices.”

An Even Brighter Future

• “We are so excited for our recent rebrand this summer, and seeing how people react to it. We have so many exciting weddings ahead, and we cannot wait to see them all come to life.”  27

Your Weekend Wedding Planner OUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO PUTTING TOGETHER AN UNFORGETTABLE MULTI-DAY AFFAIR.

BY LYNNE KENDALL LAWSON

28 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025

TYPICAL WEEKEND TIMELINE FRIDAY Daytime events for early-arriving guests might include a casual lunch and/or an outing to a driving range. If you have wedding planning tasks to handle on this day, arrange for a member of your wedding party to host these events. Rehearsal dinner/welcome buffet: Depending on your budget and number of guests, the rehearsal dinner can include just your bridal party, officiant and immediate family members or you can open it up to your out-of-town guests as well. If you hold a more exclusive dinner, be sure to provide your out-of–town guests with a welcome cocktail party/buffet, generally held at the hotel.

SATURDAY Before the wedding: a buffet breakfast for your bridal party. After the wedding: a fun after-party. You might all gather at the hotel lounge, or take your friends out on the town while parents host their own friends elsewhere. (Added bonus: Your hotel might allow you free use of their shuttle to take your group to the destination.)

SUNDAY The morning-after brunch or breakfast. And if some guests don’t need to depart right away, you might plan an early afternoon outing like a local souvenir shopping trip.

PHOTOGRAPHY: HEATHER NAN PHOTOGRAPHY; DESIGN BY SASHA SOUZA EVENTS

Whether held in your hometown or a far-flung locale, wedding weekends give you and your guests more quality time to bond and celebrate than the standard one-day affair. You might not have seen some of your guests for years and other family and friends often, but perhaps not often enough. From the welcome party to farewell brunch, a wedding weekend gives you ample opportunities to entertain all of your loved ones with fun, memory-making, personalized events and details.

WHAT WE ❤ ABOUT WEDDING WEEKENDS ❤ A multiday wedding is more affordable than you might

think: Not every meal has to be a formal sit-down, and some events (the rehearsal dinner, for example) may be hosted by parents, which makes them free to you. ❤ Guests get more value out of their travel and lodging expenses when there’s more for them to enjoy. ❤ There are plenty of photo ops with your guests. ❤ You get hours of opportunities to infuse family and cultural traditions into your celebration.

BEYOND THE BEACH: LOCATIONS & THEMES

Vineyard ❤ Of course, a winery-hopping tour is a winning idea that guests

love, and most vineyard area hotels will likely have fabulous wine-pairing catering options, plus fabulous views for outdoor celebrations. Activities abound: Wine country towns often host festivals, and there are plenty of quaint shops to visit plus notable chef-owned eateries.

PHOTOGRAPHY: W STUDIOS NY

MENU IDEAS Chef Gustavo Rios, executive chef of Solbar at Solage, an Auberge resort in Napa, CA, suggests “sweet cherry tomatoes stuffed with fresh ricotta and fino verde basil, petite legumes à la nicoise with marjoram and tempura of baby fava beans with Meyer lemon mayonnaise.” Charcuterie and cheese platters, and locally grown menu items complete the tasty fare. A party in the vineyard’s tasting room is a great way to get the weekend off to a fun and energetic start, says the team heading up catering and conference services at CordeValle, A Rosewood Resort in San Martin, California. “At CordeValle, we like to do the welcome party cocktail-style and serve wines from the vineyard with lots of passed hors d’oeuvres that showcase fresh California WELCOME BASKET IDEAS ingredients. To get people • Bottle stoppers talking to one another, • Wine journal our winemakers mingle • Coasters with the crowd and share • Cheese knife and cheese ID flag sets tasting notes and stories • Bottles of wine or champagne about the wines and the • Mini summer sausage trios winemaking process.”

WEEKEND PLANNING ESSENTIALS • SAVE THE DATES should be sent out 6-8 months before the big day, and can be sent up to a year in advance for destination weddings. This will give guests plenty of time to plan for any necessary travel and assist in securing competitive rates, say the etiquette experts at The Wedding Shop by Shutterfly. Details can be confirmed and shared with guests closer to the event or updated through your wedding website.

• MAKE IT CLEAR when guests will be expected to pay for their own expenses. The best way to do this is through your invitation or wedding website wording. For instance: “On Friday evening, we’ll head out to a country bar for drinks and dancing. See the menu, drinks list and pricing at (website).” When guests see the word “pricing” mentioned, they’ll know to bring their wallets. When guests see that an event is hosted by you or someone in the wedding party, the message conveys that the hosts are paying.

• SHARE DRESS CODES for each event on your wedding website, so that guests will know what to pack.

• SEND GUESTS A WEEKEND ITINERARY in advance of the big day, whether print or a link to your wedding website. If a new event is planned just a few weeks before the wedding, send guests your itinerary page link with a message of “New Party Added!” or “Even More to Look Forward To!” • PRINT OUT COPIES OF YOUR ITINERARY and add one to each welcome basket, so guests have the schedule and details easily on hand. ➺

Surprise guests with a different treat in their hotel room each night, such as fresh-baked oatmeal cookies or artisan chocolate.

29

❤ Think Cape Cod, Mystic, Newport…those breezy, quaint towns by the shore often hold sweet family memories of sand, salt and sun-filled vacations, sailing and watching sunsets over the ocean. If you’re hosting an intimate wedding, you might consider having guests stay together in a rented beach house or a more traditional bed and breakfast.

Beyond the typical water-centric activites such as sailing, water-skiing and paddleboarding, landlubbers can partake in the likes of beach walks, antiquing and museum visits.

Provide transportation for guests who don’t have cars. Enlist volunteer drivers and make full use of your hotel’s free shuttle service.

MENU IDEAS Serve lobsters, clams (quintessential clambake fare), or raise the gourmet level with Chef Rios’s suggestions of “barbecued oysters, and mini crab rolls with avocado green goddess and salt-and-vinegar chips.” Shots of clam chowder or lobster bisque warm up a cool evening, as does sitting around a bonfire on the beach or a firepit on a restaurant or hotel terrace.

Winter Resort ❤ Spectacular scenery and winter sports

add beauty and adventure to your wedding weekend events. Beyond drinks at the lodge, there’s skiing, horseback riding in the snow, hot-tubbing, snowmobiling and the resort’s spa to enjoy.

MENU IDEAS Go full-on gourmet with confit lamb shoulder with caramelized fuji apples, cheesy spaetzle with poached eggs and black truffles, doughnuts with cinnamon-cardamom sugar, and pistachio ice cream affogato (topped with espresso). Add in soup shots and hot spiked toddies for a tasty winter-themed menu.

Kristin Polhemus, owner and creative director at Reveriemade in Princeton, New Jersey, says, “For dessert, I love a hot-chocolate drinking station. Guests can choose classic hot chocolate, or they can add fun elements like peppermint, cinnamon or chipotle.”

TIMING IS EVERYTHING • SPACE OUT ACTIVITIES so your guests don’t feel drained by racing from one event to the next and will have time to get back to the hotel, shower and change into the next event’s appropriate attire. • ALLOW FOR ENOUGH DOWNTIME so that guests can make plans amongst themselves, relax by the hotel pool, explore the area or enjoy some alone time. • PLAN SHORTER EVENTS, not an all-day hike or endless touring excursion.

30 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025

WELCOME BASKET IDEAS • Snowflake-motif mittens • Fun knit ski hats or headbands • Frosted coasters • SPF lip balm • Hot-chocolate mix packets • S’mores package of graham crackers, chocolate bars and marshmallows • Locally brewed bottles of beer

PHOTOGRAPHY: (FROM TOP) SARAH BLACKBURNE PHOTOGRAPHY; THE SEBASTIAN–VAIL

Coastal Town

Camping or "Glamping" ❤ Weddings held at breezy rustic sites— some truly camplike, most more luxe interpretations—are becoming popular, whether you or your fiancé were once happy campers or simply love the casual outdoorsy vibe of carefree summer days gone by.

“Glamping” adds in glam decor elements like lighting effects, crystals and chandeliers hung from trees, and lush fabric drapings in tents. Guests can join you in kayak races or on nature hikes and horseback trail rides.

MENU IDEAS How about adding homemade gourmet marshmallows to s’mores fixings, and a “hobo dinner” of beef short ribs, yellow finn potatoes, and cipollini onions cooked in the coals. Hotdogs, hamburgers, pulled-pork sandwiches, cornbread, popcorn and classic ice cream sandwiches evoke fun camp memories. 

WELCOME BASKET IDEAS • Care packages with mini

pampering items, packaged snacks and a pair of socks for a take on what parents would send to kids at camp • Mosquito repellent • Citronella travel candle tin • Playing cards • Bandannas • Blackberry jam, paying tribute to berry-picking memories at camp

Take your guests’ accessibility needs into consideration. If Grandma uses a walker, or if one of your ’maids will be far along in her pregnancy, a challenging hike might not be the best idea.

Dude Ranch

PHOTOGRAPHY: (FROM TOP) THE RESORT AT PAWS UP; KOMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

❤ Head out to the ranch for westernflair activities like horseback riding, roping lessons, archery, fly fishing and campfire cookouts in breathtaking natural scenery.

MENU IDEAS

WELCOME BASKET IDEAS

• Packets of barbecue rub • Ranch logo drink bottles or cozies • Beer bottle openers • “Little bottles of whiskey,” says Fowler • Sheriff badges or toy horses for kids

Chef Rios suggests “bison sliders, empanadas and churros,” and prime rib, southern-fried chicken, roasted pork, sliders and breakfast burritos with slow-cooked beans and cornbread for authentic western flavor. Again, s’mores by the campfire are always a hit with guests.

Lottie Fowler, event planner at Fort Worth, Texas-based Grit and Gold Event Co., adds, “For an after-wedding breakfast, we serve southern Texas toast, biscuits with chocolate on top and muffins.”

31

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BEST BUDGET TIPS

1 To get a lavish look on a modest decor budget, choose a venue with a lot

of character of its own. Some possibilities: an aquarium, zoo, museum, gallery, botanical garden or historic site.

2 Rent a vacation home or private estate for a small, intimate affair. “They may charge a week’s worth in rent but it may still be equal to or less than renting a traditional reception venue,” says Maryrose Griffith of Maryrose Griffith Designs in San Diego, California.

3 Choose a theme or motif and carry it through the event for a stylish look,

says the creative marketing and events team at Bonnell’s Restaurant Group in Fort Worth, Texas. For example, start with a pattern on your invitation, perhaps 32 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025

elegant scrollwork, and incorporate it into other elements like programs, favors, escort cards or even gobo lights for the dance floor.

4 Use color to posh effect, says Griffith. Using a rich hue such as chocolate brown or deep eggplant can give any color palette a stylish look without costing you any extra. Deep shades work well with a variety of lighters ones like apple green, light blue, orange, pink or red.

5 Kick off your celebration in high style with a glamorous invite. “Invitations set the mood for the wedding, so go beyond the standard white card,” says Griffith.

You’ll get a much more impressive look by incorporating color in your design.

6 Griffith’s savvy stationery tip: Invest

the money to have your invitations designed professionally, but then print your own save-the-dates, programs, menus and escort cards using the same fonts, colors and style as your custom invites.

7 Say ciao to costly hand-done calligraphy. Either print the envelopes on your computer, using a calligraphy font, or have them printed at your local print/ copy shop for just pennies each.

8 Have a cocktail reception, but be cost-conscious by focusing on a beautiful display rather than tons and tons of food.

“Butlers in tuxedos passing trays of a few kinds of stylish hors d’oeuvres seems more high-end than chafing dishes on a buffet table, but the cost is roughly the same,” says the team at Bonnell’s.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ACQUA PHOTO

YOU WANT A GORGEOUS WEDDING, BUT MONEY IS ON YOUR MIND AS WELL. HERE’S HOW TO KEEP YOUR BOTTOM LINE IN CHECK WITHOUT SACRIFICING STYLE. BY KRISTEN FINELLO

KICK OFF YOUR CELEBRATION IN HIGH STYLE WITH EYECATCHING INVITATIONS. THEY SET THE MOOD FOR THE BIG DAY, SO GO BEYOND THE STANDARD WHITE CARD. 24 Use mirrors or frosted glass to cover your tables. It makes a dazzling effect

9 Ask your venue’s wait staff to don white gloves while they’re serving.

“You can buy gloves for under $2 a pair,” says Samantha Goldberg of Samantha Goldberg & Co. in Summit, New Jersey.

10 Upgrade your linens. Griffith suggests pintuck, shantung or another glamorous fabric. “For just $15 to $30 per table, they’re the biggest bang for your buck you can get,” she says.

11 While you’re at it, you can rent napkins

PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP) ACQUA PHOTO; (BOTTOM) JENNY QUICKSALL PHOTOGRAPHY

in a color or pattern for about $1 each,

adding a pop of vibrant color and a more custom look at the same time.

12 Go a little longer than floor length with your table linens. “Pooling linens makes for a much more luxurious, opulent look,” notes Goldberg.

13 Another option: Rent a gauzy overlay, for $9 to $25 apiece, to dress up your table. Or buy sheer organza by the yard at a fabric store and have overlays made for just $5 to $8 apiece.

14 Another table topper: If you (or someone else you know) is handy, create your own table runners. You can go for something extra luxe in your fabric because you won’t need a great deal of it.

15 Accent your table with pretty napkin rings. “You can rent them in different styles and colors for a few dollars each or buy them on sale for as little as 99 cents apiece,” says Goldberg.

16 Top each napkin with a single bloom and tie with a coordinating ribbon, recommends New York City-based event planner Leslie Price of In Any Event.

17 Fold it fancy. “A unique napkin fold can make a statement and most venues won’t charge for the service,” says Price.

One option: Fold the napkin to create a pocket to hold a menu.

18 Attach a small bouquet or floral garland to the backs of the bride’s and groom’s chairs to give them a special look.

19 Change up your chairs. Try white suede for the lead table and regular white chairs for the rest of the guests.

20 Use ribbon to upgrade candleholders. Hold the ribbon in place with sticky dots, says Laura Clare, owner of Laura Clare Floral Design and Event Decor in Hoboken, New Jersey.

21 Place a colored or textured charger ($3 to $5 each) underneath the dinner plates.

22 Instead of using clear glass votive holders, try colored or etched ones, suggests Price. Try your local crafts store or candles4less.com, where you can get a box of 12 for $19.99.

23 Out: standard banquet chairs. In: elegant chiavari chairs (in gold or silver) at about $9 each to rent, or clear “ghost” chairs at about $15 each to rent.

and saves you the cost of providing linens.

25 Shake up the table shapes. Try a long rectangular table. These come at the same price as typical round shapes but bring a more sophisticated look.

26 Invest in a little lighting—for a huge impact. Get a wash of color on walls with uplights, suggests Griffith. “Even two or three lights accentuating a focal point will change the feel of the room,” she says. Costs for the light rentals run from $12 to $35 each, including colored gels.

27 Another bright idea: Use pin spotlights, at $25 to $50 each, to give extra presence to your tables.

28 To make flower arrangements seem grander and more stylish for just a few dollars, wrap inexpensive glass containers

in handmade paper, wallpaper or fabric and add a ribbon, suggests Griffith.

29 In place of pricey flowers for centerpieces, consider romantic candelabras draped in crystals. Tabletop candelabras can be rented for $25 to $75 at websites like simplyelegantwed.com.

30 Griffith likes to splurge on well-placed, plush lounge furniture. “Lounge furniture is more affordable than you might think,” she says. “A set of curved benches, for example, might run you about $400. And ➺

33

your guests will feel spoiled!”

31 Bring on the bling.“Faux crystals—on bouquets, the cake, invitations, place cards and menus—are eye-catching and give an expensive feel,” says Griffith.

You can purchase glass beads inexpensively at local crafts stores.

32 Place a beautiful menu at each guest’s place. Many venues will print them for you for free, or you can make them yourself without spending much.

33 Go for chic and simple centerpieces.

Instead of paying $75 to $125 each for elaborate table arrangements, purchase tall, clear cylinders from the local dollar store to use as containers for single orchids or rose petals in water with floating candles on top, suggests Goldberg.

34 Or use colored water in your centerpieces to coordinate with your decor.

The effect is magical in candlelight.

35 Set reception tables with colored or patterned china instead of standard white. The cost will be about $3 to $7 per

place setting.

36 Hire out-of-the-ordinary entertainment for a high-impact cocktail hour. To save costs, opt for a three-piece ensemble instead of a five-piece. Or use standout musicians for the cocktail hour and switch to a DJ for dancing later on in the evening.

37 Instead of hiring a group for the cocktail hour, have a solo musician, 34 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025

like a classical guitarist, to add something different and delightful.

38 Consider a musical group that com-

cowboy boots with wildflowers for a casually elegant air.

49 Want to double the impact of your

bines a DJ and musicians who perform along with the recorded music. It’ll get

flower arrangements without adding a dime to your florist bill? Place your

the crowd dancing, and provide the upscale feel of a live band at less expense.

39 If you’re hiring a DJ, consider a live bongo player or sax player to accompany your mix master.

40 Glow on! “Use candlelight to give your room a rich, romantic look,” says Goldberg. “It’s highly affordable.”

41 Get creative with escort cards and/ or place cards. In some cases you can do a different—and more interesting—shape or color for less than you’d pay for the typical tented fold-over cards, says Price.

42 Instead of just lining up escort cards on a table, string them from branches or nestle them in a bed of grass, sand, rocks or flower petals.

43 Splurge on hand calligraphy for your escort cards, place cards or table numbers.

44 Dress up your escort cards and

blooms in front of a mirror—the reflection will create an ultralush look.

50 Order window clings (perfect for personalizing glass doors at your venue) at websites like orientaltrading.com or Etsy. Prices for the clings start at around $15, depending on size.

51 Small wrought-iron trees, available at specialty stores or online, make a chic backdrop or centerpiece. Take them up a notch by hanging votives or glittering ornaments from the branches.

52 A fresh centerpiece idea: Fill clear containers with sliced limes, lemons or oranges. In the center of the fruit, place

table numbers by choosing paper with

a metallic sheen rather than a flat card stock, says Price. If you were to purchase card stock yourself, you’d pay about $40 per 100 sheets for metallic and about $27 per 100 sheets of flat. The difference would be about 13 cents a sheet.

45 For an elegant look, ask the calligrapher to spell out table numbers (“six” instead of “6”), says Price.

46 Make it metallic. “Metallic items look extravagant but don’t cost any more than their counterparts,” says Griffith, who suggests presenting favors in little gold boxes and choosing a shimmery champagne color for linens.

47 Vary the height, size or shape of centerpieces. “This is a design trick often used by pros,” explains Griffith.

“By doing this you create dimension, which keeps the eye flowing throughout the room, It’s a really nice effect.”

48 Play around with centerpiece containers for a more custom look. One of Bonnell’s Texas brides is filling specialty

a tall glass with a votive to illuminate the arrangement.

53 Use natural elements that hold an earthy, upscale appeal. Goldberg suggests filling a two- to three-foot-high vase with a base of river rocks and adding dramatic branches of curly willow or manzanita branches. Place these arrangements at

PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP) J WILEY PHOTOGRAPHY (BOTTOM) ACQUA PHOTOGRAPHY

FOR A CHIC IMPRESSION, CATERERS CAN CREATE UNIQUE DISPLAYS WITH ITEMS ALREADY ON HAND SUCH AS SHOT GLASSES AND CERAMIC TEASPOONS AT NO ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU.

the entrance to your cocktail hour and/ or reception.

54 When selecting butler-passed foods, go for visually pleasing nibbles. Red gazpacho shooters with a green garnish look great lined up on a tray.

55 Start your meal with an amusebouche, a tasty pre-dinner bite. Try an espresso cup of soup, a mini crab cake or a single scallop. Dropping the salad course and replacing it with an amusebouche is usually done at no extra cost.

56 Presenting food in eye-catching ways

serving tray. Guests will really enjoy the naturally creative touch!”

60 Add an unexpected accent to dishes with pretty herbs or edible flowers, such as pansies or squash blossoms, says Clare.

61 Classic cocktails—an old-fashioned, anyone?—are making a comeback. Offer one or two kinds of mixed drinks, and you’ll imbue your reception with a sophisticated, vintage feel that guests will be sure to remember fondly.

62 Have waiters work the room. “Passing specialty drinks can upgrade your

decorate dessert plates with a swirl or drizzle of chocolate or fruit-flavored sauce.

68 Make coffee extra special by serving each cup with a rock-candy swizzle stick.

69 Ask your baker to cover your confection in a soft gold fondant rather than white.

“Fondant airbrushed in gold looks rich and extravagant,” says Goldberg.

70 Display your favorite goodies—cookies, candy, potato chips—whatever you’re known for noshing—in containers or even vases of different heights, shapes and sizes.

71 Take your goodie bag up a notch by providing customized “to go” bags or boxes with a stamp or sticker with your names or logo, says Griffith.

72 An elaborate wedding cake can be super pricey. Instead, offer your guests miniature pies, petit fours or individual servings of crème brûlée.

73 A cupcake or doughnut tower is another fun and budget-friendly change from a traditional cake. A five-tier tower

PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP) SHERMAN CHU PHOTOGRAPHY (BOTTOM) FEATHER LOVE/NOA AZOULAY

INSTEAD OF JUST LINING UP ESCORT CARDS ON A TABLE, STRING THEM FROM BRANCHES OR NESTLE THEM IN A BED OF GRASS, SAND, ROCKS OR FLOWER PETALS. creates a chic impression but doesn't have to add costs. “Most chefs enjoy creating unique presentations,” says Goldberg. “If they have items available—such as shot glasses, ceramic teaspoons and so on—they can use these at no further cost to you.”

57 Plan your menu around inexpensive cuisines like Mexican, Indian or Greek.

58 Treat your guests to an appetizer duo or dessert trio. Price’s insider secret: If your venue offers four courses, negotiate down to three and use the “credit” to pay for the duo or trio. For a fabulous dessert trio, for example, you might serve a mini flourless chocolate cake, a berry tartlet and a shortbread cookie.

59 Adopt a leaf motif. For a summery look, serve appetizers on petite tropical leaves and use a leaf as a charger under the dinner plate, says Clare. “You can even use a long pod or a sturdy leaf as a

may cost as little as $75.

74 Or steal an idea from one bride, and have an outrageously rich brownie tower.

75 Choose favors that do double duty as escort card holders. Clare suggests writing each guest’s name on a pot with a keepsake plant tucked inside. 

look, and most venues will include it in their package,” says Price.

63 The champagne tower is back in style, says Clare. Create one by stacking glasses in a pyramid shape. There may be a small setup cost. Drop single raspberries into glasses for extra effect.

64 Float a slice of lemon, orange, lime or a strawberry or raspberry in each guest’s water glass.

65 Instead of a budget-busting full, open bar, offer your guests a signature cocktail, chosen to complement your wedding colors, suggests Griffith.

66 Decorate your wedding cake with fresh flowers to match your decor (less expensive than sugarpaste!). “Most florists will provide this for you at a minimal charge if they’re already providing other elements of your wedding,” says Price.

67 Sweet and simple: Have your caterer 35

wedding album REAL COUPLES

&

kayleigh david This Texas wedding was infused with the couple’s love of art, music and nature.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRANT DANIELS PHOTOGRAPHY

You could say Kayleigh and David Harper met cute.

After all, it was their first class on the first day of 8th grade. “We both kept getting in trouble for interrupting the teacher while joking with each other,” they say. And by the time they were high school seniors “we were basically dating, but we hadn’t made it official yet.”

The duo segued to yes-we-are-a-couple status during the summer after Kayleigh’s freshman year.

Two years later, after he had moved to Waco (where Kayleigh was in school), David proposed.

36 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025

“I brought Kayleigh to this beautiful cliffside overlooking the Brazos River,” David says. “It was the spot where we had done Bible time and had reflected on our future after our very first date.”

Soon, the wedding-planning wheels were set in motion, helmed by Shannon at Shannon Rose Events, who recommended Scarbrough Haven for their venue. “The high ceilings and modern architecture really spoke to us,” David says.

“A lot of our inspiration came from nature and the ‘lore’ behind our relationship,” the couple says. “Birds, songs, colors or textures that were significant to us, all found their way into the design and flow of the wedding.” Woven baskets, stonelike vessels and terracotta planters overflowed with fresh blooms. The overall color scheme was based on Kayleigh’s “favorite colors that I use for painting!”

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An avid painter since childhood, Kayleigh created a gallery-wall seating chart display featuring her artwork.

Seating plans designed to look like museum labels were placed beneath each painting to note which table guests were assigned to. David’s talent was also on display, as friends and family watched (and listened) as Kayleigh floated down the aisle to “Song Bird,” a song David had written and dedicated to her.

38 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025

Faith played a big role.

“The worship at the heart of the ceremony was what most folks told us was their favorite,” the couple says. Rather than exit through clouds of rice or flower petals, friends and family formed two parallel lines with their arms extended to form a prayer tunnel the couple passed through when they made their exit at the end of the evening.

Planning: @shannonroseevents Photographer: @grantdaniels Venue: @scarbroughhaven Florals: @wedfullyyours Catering: Tastefully-yours.com Cake: @sweetsomethingsbyashleigh Dessert: Pop-factory.com Stationery: @hazelwoodpaperco Rentals: @nuagedesignsinc @partydallasrentals @bbjlatavola @poshcouturerentals DJ: @jasonesquire Videography: @bsrweddingfilms Hair and Makeup: @snmakeuphair

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GUIDE

STRIKE A POSE

Gold beaded Bisou dress with feather hem and sculpted hip, $6,000, by INES DI SANTO. Gold Natalia crystal platforms

by SOPHIA WEBSTER. 41 000

YOU BETTER WORK! PHOTOGRAPHY BY KOUROSH SOTOODEH STYLED BY JULI ALVAREZ

GIVING SHADE

Onyx organza mini dress with floral sequin embellishment paired with custom tulle sleeves, price upon request, by HOUSE OF GILLES. 18K white gold and diamond flower earrings, by DENA KEMP. 42 000

000

37 000

ALL DOLLED UP

Full embellished floral trapeze gown with velvet bows, price upon request, by HONOR. Cherry Blossom chandelier earrings and Side Pear Rubellite Ring, both by MINDI MOND. 44 000

000

IT FACTOR

Floral printed silk organza Fiori ball gown, price upon request, by GALIA LAHAV. 18K rose gold and diamond Bubble Earrings and Flexible Bubble Necklace

by MATTIA CIELO.

51 000

SOFT TOUCH

Semi-sheer tulle draped corset Hunter gown, price upon request, by ALON LIVNÉ, available at Kleinfeld Bridal. Gabriella Mantellina elbow length drop veil by MONVIEVE. Fantasy sticker earrings and bracelet from HOUSES & PARTIES by REBECCA GARDNER.

46 000

000

GOLD STAR

Beaded Bisou dress with feather hem and sculpted hip, $6,000,

by INES DI SANTO. Gold Natalia crystal platforms

by SOPHIA WEBSTER.

000

000

000

JET SET

Onyx organza mini dress with floral sequin embellishment paired with custom tulle sleeves, price upon request, by HOUSE OF GILLES. 18K white gold and diamond flower earrings, by DENA KEMP. Black lace Evening Lights evening dress slipper by BRAVE PUDDING.

000

WILD FLOWER

Duchess satin floral mini dress, price upon request, by RICHARD QUINN. Azure Dream Selena clip earrings by SAULÉ. Fantasy sticker brooch from HOUSES & PARTIES by REBECCA GARDNER. Blue tights by WE LOVE COLORS. Blue Fog satin Albie sandal by BLACK SUEDE STUDIO. 50 000

BLUE BELLE

Floral print Italian mikado pique Helena ball gown, price upon request, by SAREH NOURI. Baby Blue Gaia Glam earrings by SAULÉ. Painted opera length gloves by WING AND WEFT.

000

POP ART

Floral rose bodice gown, price upon request, by NARDOS. Rose Flare Gaia earrings by SAULÉ.

Opera length gloves

by WING AND WEFT. Paper fantasy crown from HOUSES & PARTIES by REBECCA GARDNER. 52 000

LUSCIOUS

Virgil gown in tulle with 3D flowers, approx. $4,700, by JUSTIN ALEXANDER SIGNATURE. Dusty pink tulle cape by RAVISHING COUTURE. Paper fantasy crown from HOUSES & PARTIES by REBECCA GARDNER. Vanessa mules with hand-drawn, digitally printed butterflies by SOPHIA WEBSTER.

51 000

000

000

SHIMMER

Mint cape dress with metallic hand embroidery, price upon request, by HONOR. Baby Blue Gaia Glam earrings by SAULÉ.

39 000

SITTING PRETTY

Consuelo Alencon lace ball gown with cropped jacket, price upon request, both by MARK INGRAM BRIDE. Point d’esprit bonnet

by RICHARD QUINN. Black leather gloves

by WING AND WEFT. Baguette and round diamond ring in 18K white gold by DENA KEMP. Flower Strass Efflorescence Pumps

by ROGER VIVIER.

56 000

000

DRESSED TO FRILL

Charmeuse Gentle Drape Blouse, $1,370 and tiered tulle Ninety Volume Skirt, $4,560, both by YELLOW BY SAHAR. Hanford hat in Milanese straw with ivory silk organza orchids by GIGI BURRIS MILLINERY. Photographed at The 1896 Studios & Stages.

ART DIRECTOR MARY CATE GODFREY MAKEUP CHARLOTTE WILLER @ HOME HAIR NIKO WEDDLE @ JUDY CASEY STYLING ASSISTANT AVITAL SHIMON

000

ON LOCATION Our cover and fashion pages were photographed at The 1896 Studios & Stages in Brooklyn, New York. We asked artist Jen Durbin, the venue’s founder and creative director, to tell us the story of this incredible space. Take it away, Jen!

Bridal Guide: When was 1896 Studios founded?

Jen Durbin: The 1896 was officially founded in 2008, but it all started with a phone call from my landlord—while I was on my honeymoon! He told me the buildings that housed my original Fort Greene art studios, The Milk Factory, were going to be torn down.

But, he said, “I found you another space. You can take one, two, or all three warehouses. The back two

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come with a courtyard.”

We drove straight from the airport to Bushwick. From the outside, the buildings were a surprise—stunning turn of the century architecture in the middle of a nearly abandoned industrial zone, built in 1896—a beautiful surprise in an otherwise industrial part of Brooklyn. I had 52 artists I wanted to bring with me, but the moment I saw the scale, the light, and the texture of the back

warehouses and courtyard, I knew it had potential beyond just studios. It was love. My husband (newly minted!) couldn’t quite see it, but he believed in me. So we said yes—again!

Were the buildings empty when you found them? What was involved in bringing the spaces to life?

They were actually filled with massive plaster molds and casts of large architectural details, like the two cherubs that overlook our front

entrance. It was rough space, layered with dust and time. But it had something you can't recreate, at least not easily: textured brick, authentic wear and tear, integrity, grit, not to mention 37-foot -high clerestory windows, a 70-foot smokestack, a brickalleyway, and tremendous light. It felt like a film set waiting to happen. I wanted to reveal, not replace. We cleaned, reinforced, enhanced and installed the necessary infrastructure

— but kept every inch of the patina and raw beauty.

Did you start out developing the building for individual artist studios followed by photo/film studios or did it all happen at once?

It started with the artist studios—that was my immediate need. But as a scenic painter working in TV, music videos, and fashion, I could see that the space had broader appeal. At least I hoped so. I put up a Craigslist

ad, like one would in early 2008: “Raw Warehouse Available for Filming.”

Three days later, I had a music video booked for Ratatat. By the following Monday, T-Mobile and Nike had called.

Word started to spread and we’ve actually been in business for 18 years primarily via word of mouth. And now that we are returning to weddings, something we did in the early years until Covid, relaunching our prop house, Primate Props, and making

Nov/Dec 2025 BRIDALGUIDE.COM 59

62 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Sept/Oct 2025

a strong pivot to weddings, parties and events.

We are looking to spreading the word!

What inspired you to branch out into events and weddings in the first place?

After my own wedding, I hung the antique chairs I used on the wall—they’re still there, a photographic feature we call the Chair Wall.

People love their charm, from Annie Leibovitz to Maluma...to my Aunt Lois. I started refinishing floors, scenic painting walls, and layering in moments, like French doors, a wall of windows, that made the space more flexible, more photographable.

Events just grew naturally from the creative community around us and the early party prospectors had already descended. So weddings seemed a natural fit, with all their character and grace. Plus, what was I going to do with all these chairs! I think it was someone on set who asked for the first wedding...and it went from there.

What do you love about the space(s) relative to events and weddings? What do you like to highlight to prospective clients?

It doesn’t take much to surprise yourself here. A dramatic dress or a sleek tux against these century-old walls is like art against canvas. The contrast of grand and modest, textured and elegant, makes for incredible photos and unforgettable guest experiences.

We highlight our indoor/outdoor flexibility (including rain backup!), dramatic reveals between stages for the guests, and migrating itineraries from the cocktail hour in one location to the outdoor ceremony to the grand reveal of our largest space, Area 3 beyond the towering wood doors, it’s just one big wow. It does a lot of the work for you.

The 1896 is a raw canvas for anything: a stunning wedding, a shape-shifting immersive event, a brand launch, a prom-themed party, a mud-slinging fashion show, or a late-night roller-skating rave. We've hosted it all—from quiet ceremonies to blazing concerts. With both indoor and outdoor features, you can 60 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025

throw a concert on one stage while serving Korean BBQ in the courtyard and projecting your vows on a smokestack. Only here.

The stages can be completely transformed to reflect the personality of the couple. Want to roller skate to your vows? Want a food truck inside? A giant floral wall? You can do that here. If we can do couches on fire for Esquire and a live panther with Chris Rock, make it rain inside … we can do you!

What else sets 1896 apart from other event venues?

We bring the drama—so you don’t have to. The space tells a story before your event even begins. From the rooftop smokestack to our in-house prop house, Primate Props, you have access to a level of customization and character most venues can’t offer. Plus, we’re flexible. We can make a 150-person wedding feel intimate or turn a 1,200-person celebration into a fullblown concert. The site boasts original architectural features like century-old textured walls, a clerestory skylight over 80 feet long and 37 feet high, a wrought-iron balcony and fire escape, and a brick-lined courtyard drive.

It’s also steeped in cultural significance: David Bowie filmed his final video here. Madonna came for her Vanity Fair 50-year retrospective.

It’s iconic. And it’s set in a truly original neighborhood to NYC. Out-of- town guests will be blown away.

What are the top 3 pieces of advice you and your team always share with your couples?

1. Don’t be afraid to do something totally unique—the answer is probably yes.

2. Let the space breathe. The architecture is already doing a lot of the heavy lifting. Relax, itdoesn’t take much to take their breath away.

You want simple, we have up-lights!

3. Use our prop house. It’s a game-changer for storytelling and styling.

What are the top 3 questions you always ask your couples?

1. What kind of experience do you want your guests to have?

What would be a perfect day/evening wedding/reception timeline at the 1896?

3:00 PM – Guests begin arriving and are welcomed through the 110-foot brick promenade, strung with festoon lighting. Cocktails and live music set the tone in theprivate courtyard.

4:00 PM – Ceremony begins in the courtyard, with the wedding party entering down the dramatic promenade.

5:00 PM – Guests transition to Area 2 (the Skylit Stage), styled with custom lounge zones from Primate Props, for champagne, passed hors d’oeuvres, and photos.

6:00 PM – The big reveal: Two towering 16-foot doors swing open to unveil the granddinner space in Area 3, framed by 37-foot vaulted ceilings and theatrical lighting.

8:00 PM – The dance floor ignites under the clerestory windows with immersive lighting and DJ or live band.

10:00 PM – Late-night food trucks roll into our drive-in stage—tacos, sliders, or BBQ under the stars. Each reveal brings something new: a space that evolves with your evening.

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54 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025 62

What are some of your recommendations for guests to explore, culturally or culinarily, in and around Bushwick?

Bushwick is full of surprises.

You can step outside and walk into block after block of mural-covered buildings, stories tall, streams of taco trucks still rich with their Puerto Rican and Dominican heritage and interminable night life. The neighborhood was once home to 44 breweries—known as Brewer’s Row—and now it’s seeing a revival with whiskey made from beer, honey mead, a sake distillery and on and on.

Very exciting. You can even take your bridal party to Xanadu for roller skating or Turk’s Inn, a fully transplanted legendary roadside supper club from Hayward, Wisconsin, with a Turkish theme.

Grab a slice, pop up to Elsewhere’s roof for dancing, and House of Yes for the late late night.

There’s also the Onderdonk House nearby—a Dutch colonial house from when the area was called “Heavy Woods” by the Canarsee, a Lenape tribe. And Bushwick is about to get NYC’s first geothermal hotel.

It’s doesn’t stop—it’s New York! Plus our place is super simple to reach on the subway from central Manhattan.

2. What kind of reveal moments or transformations are you imagining?

3. Who is your event planner?

What is your team’s superpower when it comes to event planning?

Adaptability. We come from the film and photo world, essentially live performance, pulling a rabbit out of your hat, so we think like designers, producers, and problem-solvers.

We’re used to fast pivots, wild ideas, and making magic happen behind the scenes.

And we know just the people to help you do it. And if you don’t want to use our caterer or vendors, we’re OK with that too. This is your day, make it personal.

What kinds of wedding and hospitality trends have you been seeing?

We’re seeing more maximalist weddings: bold entertainment moments similar to immersive brand launches, bright colors, gorgeous flowers (they can do so much), statement fashion. Grazing stations are no longer an afterthought—they’re floral masterpieces.

Food has become part of the entertainment, with champagne towers, live oyster shucking, and visual dessert builds.

Menus are becoming personal, inspired by family recipes and favorite restaurants. We’re working with Alexandra Dettori Catering for unforgettable, beautiful menus and with Wizard Studios if you’re looking for a fully

immersive production for your big day.

Guests want surprise, intimacy, and fun.

Couples want more than a beautiful backdrop—they want a wedding that reflects who they are, feels like an experience, and yes, gives them photos worthy of a Vogue spread. We’ve got that.

Any new programs in the works our readers might want to know about?

We’ve just reopened an over-1600-piece prop house on-site called Primate Props and are adding new exciting pieces each week. And word is spreading about our recent pivot to events, so exciting partnerships are blooming.

We want a win-win for everyone. The local community of small busineses, the bride and groom and the use of The 1896. We want your joy here.

The 1896 isn’t just a beautiful venue—it’s a piece of NYC history. It tells a story, holds a story, and gives you the tools to tell yours— with space, light, texture, and and a little imagination. With its original architectural features and larger-than-life scale, the space has been the backdrop for couture fashion shoots, music legends, and some of the city’s most unforgettable events. Whether you’re bringing in a marching band, roller-skating down the aisle, or serving up kimchi tacos and Texas BBQ under string lights, the venue is built to adapt—and inspire. 

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Start Your Story Here

Heartfelt hospitality has been a cherished part of our culture, a defining part of our heritage for generations. In Charleston, graciousness isn’t just a gesture; it’s a way of life.

And we can’t wait to welcome you. Whether you envision a grand affair at a full-service resort, an intimate garden celebration, or a weekend-long gathering at a storybook bed & breakfast, the Charleston area offers the perfect setting for every wedding style.

@CHARLESTONWEDDINGGUIDE

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Sun-Kissed Sojourns

PHOTOGRAPHY: TERRE DI SACRA

The classic amenities of the Caribbean—brilliant waters edged with kaleidoscope sands—make the Bahamas a honeymoon favorite. Surf’s up on the golden shores of Barbados, and Puerto Rico is rich with the history of its national drink, the piña colada. Panama City wows with options for destination weddings, while a hideaway in the jungle of Costa Rica ups its offerings. See how one couple toasted with guests at a coastal chic hideaway in Amagansett on New York’s Long Island, and find adventure in a stunning natural setting with a stay at an elevated tented resort.

A Tuscan sunset.

Nov/Dec 2025 BRIDALGUIDE.COM000 65

Request a Visitor Guide or view the online guide.

Discover a place as

magical as this day.

goldenisles.com

RESORT ROUNDUP

High Camp The best in luxe honeymoon amenities are all yours at these tented resorts.

by Jenna Mahoney

Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp Staying near the rim of Tanzania’s Ngorongoro

Crater (a declension of the African savannah) offers the ultimate romantic getaway, complete with all the PBS nature documentary magic you’d expect from a safari adventure: incredible wildlife sightings, cultural excursions to local villages, and in-between-game-drives time spent lounging in elevated tented accommodations. This recently refurbished collection of just 10 solar-powered tents is a savannahexploration daydream realized, with comfy beds draped in romantic (and functioning) netting, classic furnishings and expansive decks for lounging (room rates start at $370 a night and are all inclusive; lemalacamps.com).

Book into the little island.

Islita Chiquita

When you imagine an idyllic tropical-island paradise it’s likely to be found IRL at this aptly named resort, which occupies a small island on Costa Rica’s Gulf of Nicoya. Accessible only via boat, the hideaway offers all the romance of a castaway experience with none of the downsides. In addition to the 19 tent accommodations—each with large decks with amazing jungle and beach views and outdoor showers (as well as indoor ones)—the hotel flaunts an excellent spa, an intimate pool, and a breezy restaurant overlooking the water. Evening excursions to view bioluminescence are wildly popular (room rates start at $205 a night; islachiquitacostarica.com).

68 HONEYMOON GUIDE Nov/Dec 2025

Beachside bliss in Mexico.

Hotel Villa Santa Cruz When this 20-acre

beachfront hideaway in Mexico’s sleepy Todos Los Santos unveiled a major renovation, it included the introduction of a handful of tented accommodations set right in the sand. Other additions include innovative, immersive dining and farm experiences, an equestrian center complete with horseback riding excursions and classes and an expansion of on-site activities such as beachfront yoga and stargazing. Two pools, pickleball, cooking classes and the celebrated eatery with outdoor kitchen continue to be on offer (room rates start at $585 a night; villasantacruzbaja.com).

PHOTOGRAPHY (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) DUNTON RIVER CAMP; VILLA SANTA CRUZ; TERRE DI SACRA (2)

Safari daydreams realized.

Glamp with the locals in Botswana.

Sitatunga Private Island

African safaris are renowned for their sweeping plains and epic grasslands, yet Botswana’s Okavango Delta offers an equally rich wildlife experience in a completely different setting. This river-hugging expanse teems with diverse bird species and game in a unique aquatic environment. Here, game drives take place by boat and on foot, and tents are elevated to keep curious hippos at bay. Built from sustainable materials, this intimate camp accommodates just 8 guests with exceptional lodging and all the expected amenities—guided drives, laundry service, and more. (room rates start at $1,965 per person per night; singita.com).

Blissfully basic in California.

PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) SITATUNGA PRIVATE ISLAND, BOTSWANA (2); ISLITA CHIQUITA; THE RIVER ELECTRIC CAMP RESORT + SWIM CLUB

The River Electric Camp Resort + Swim Club

Go back to summer camp with a stay at this seasonal outpost set among towering icons—the Redwoods of California. The design vibe here is elevated rustic with a heavy mid-century modern influence thanks to steel, concrete and salvaged redwood. Indoor/outdoor living spaces include an awesome eatery where diners are encouraged to savor the night sky, a pool bar offering light fare, a cool cocktail menu and custom local wine blends, a pair of pools and a fire pit. Area amenities reflect the best of Sonoma (room rates start $325 a night; theriverelectric.com).

Fun Fact: While the term “glamping” became part of the travel vernacular in the early aughts, the concept of elevated camping likely dates back to the 16th century, when French and Scottish courts set up collections of tents for entertaining guests.

A wonder in Tuscany.

Terre di Sacra

Italy’s Tuscany region is renowned for its pastoral settings and endless rolling expanses of stone houses set among gorgeous farmlands, olive groves and celebrated wineries.

People come here for lingering, sun-soaked days filled with delicious dolce vita moments, food and wine. Terre di Sacra boasts all the classic Tuscan offerings along with a private beach. Here, a series of tented accommodations and traditional lodging options welcome guests to experience farm-to-table workshops, wildlife tours, horseback riding excursions, and hot-air balloon rides, all while enjoying beach amenities and the region’s unparalleled cuisine. (room rates start at about $195 a night; sacra.it). ¢

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THE DISH

A masterful mix at La Factoria.

The stately Condado Vanderbilt Hotel.

Piña Colada

A piña colada wall mural at the Caribe Hilton.

Experiencing local flavors is the best way to taste a destination. Get ready to dig in. by Jenna Mahoney

P

uerto Rico—you lovely island—your very name showcases the riches you offer. Days here unfold with sun-drenched golden beaches perfect for watersports, accommodations ranging from intimate boutiques to sprawling resorts, adventures through the country’s only rainforest, and immersion in both historic charm and cutting-edge arts and culture. The culinary scene seamlessly blends tradition with innovation, making this the perfect destination to savor authentic flavors. In addition to being the home of cocina criolla, a dynamic blend of indigenous Taíno, Spanish, and African influences, this Caribbean island is the birthplace of the piña colada. While bartenders still debate who first crafted this icy blend of rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice, cocktail historians agree the drink made its debut at the Caribe Hilton, a midcentury modern tower perched on one of the island’s most popular beaches. Now Puerto Rico’s national drink, the piña colada awaits at countless spots across the island. La Concha Resort in San Juan’s vibrant Condado district beckons with twin pools perfect for lounging and sipping, plus a stunning curvilinearroofed restaurant that seems to float above the sand for those seeking a more refined setting to enjoy the classic recipe. Next door, the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, built on the former mansion grounds of the famous family, elevates the experience with sunset dinners at 70 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025

Touring Casa Bacardi.

A fresh take at La Casita de Rones.

Happily at Home Bacardi may be the most popular rum brand on the planet, and visitors to Puerto Rico can tour the factory, Casa Bacardi. In addition to exploring the legacy of this family-owned spirits house, there are tastings, founder’s experiences (it’s all about the casking and aging of rum), and mixology classes. After mastering the perfect piña colada, you may find you want to invest in a set of poco grande glasses—stemware with generous bowls designed for tropical cocktails.

1919, their acclaimed fine-dining restaurant where the signature island cocktail provides the perfect prelude to an exquisite meal. A more mixologist-forward iteration of the cocktail is on offer at La Factoria, just outside San Juan. This contemporary space embodies the island’s evolving culinary scene while honoring traditional Boricua (Puerto Rican) culture. A more robust rum tasting experience, complete with piña coladas, is on offer at La Casita de Rones set in a heritage building downtown. 

Seashell inspo at La Concha Resort.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF LOPESAN COSTA BAVARO RESORT SPA & CASINO

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Salterra Resort, Turks & Caicos Islands Salterra Resort, Turks & Caicos Islands

Couples Resorts, Jamaica

Inspiration for Your Destination

Dip your toes in the romantic allure of the Caribbean. From award-winning nature and renowned beaches, diving and sailing to vibrant cultural experiences and irresistible cuisine, it’s no wonder its islands rank among the best for weddings, honeymoons, and anniversaries year after year. So, get a taste for all the region has to offer with these four hotels and resorts that represent the tropical charm, convenient access, variety of islands, and endless options the Caribbean has to offer.

Ocean Cliff Hotel, Negril, Jamaica

Ocean Cliff Hotel, Negril, Jamaica

Salterra Resort, Turks & Caicos Islands

Ocean Cliff Hotel, Negril, Jamaica

Celebrate your singular love in an otherworldly paradise as unique as the two of you. Salterra Resort in South Caicos provides a stunning setting to gather your loved ones for your once-in-a-lifetime experience. The property features outdoor settings overlooking white sandy beaches and blue waters, as well as indoor venues with elegant ambiance and dazzling views. Salterra has the ideal venue for every moment of your wedding. salterra.com

Dream weddings become reality at Ocean Cliff Hotel, where your special day is always the top priority. Set on the most exquisite backdrop for making lifetime memories, the hotel’s dedicated team is there to help fulfill your every wish. Their wedding and romance specialists provide inspiration with classic Jamaican charm and Caribbean touches while helping to create a wedding designed with you in mind and customized to your tastes and preferences. oceancliffhotel.com

Coulibri Ridge, Dominica

Coulibri Ridge, Dominica

Couples Resorts, Jamaica

Coulibri Ridge, Dominica

Couples Resorts, Jamaica

Exchange vows at picturesque Coulibri Ridge, a luxury eco-resort nestled in Dominica’s untouched mountains, surrounded by vibrant blooms and panoramic mountain and sea views. From rustic-chic charm to refined resort vibes, Coulibri stands out for the serene elegance of its curated venues with custom floral bouquets, hand-selected settings, and gourmet catering. The result is a bespoke experience where every detail creates a wedding as breathtaking as your love. coulibriridge.com

At Couples Resorts, romance comes naturally. Its oceanfront properties are designed exclusively for love with an inviting blend of barefoot and intimate charm that sets the stage for unforgettable weddings and honeymoons. You’ll enjoy everything from complimentary packages and personalized planning to spa treatments, catamaran cruises, and gourmet dining. Whether you’re planning a quiet elopement or a celebration with loved ones, everything is curated so you can focus on what matters most: each other. couples.com

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Saint Lucia Discover the magic of Saint Lucia, a breathtaking island made for romance. A destination where the scenery stuns, the sun shines, and special occasions are celebrated.

You can see why it has been voted the ‘World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination’ sixteen times, this endlessly romantic island captivates couples at every turn, with luxurious resorts, fabulous cuisine, wonderful experiences, and welcoming hospitality as warm as the weather. Fill your hearts with happiness as you explore, relax, indulge, and cherish time with loved ones. Share in captivating experiences as you sip champagne during a private candlelit dinner on the beach, set sail on a sunset cruise, soak in mud baths at the Sulphur Springs, enjoy chocolate-infused massages, or horseback ride along the shoreline.

This enchanting destination also sets the stage for couples seeking to add wows to their vows, with picture-perfect wedding locations dotted across the island. From local churches and old plantation houses to Pigeon Island National Park, Diamond Botanical Gardens, and unforgettable beautiful beaches, couples are guaranteed a day to remember.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a dreamy destination wedding, or the perfect honeymoon, Saint Lucia delivers joy, beauty, and once-in-a-lifetime memories at every turn.

Get started at stlucia.org/en/experiences/weddingshoneymoons, or call 1-800-210-0921.

TOP TO BOTTOM: Unforgettable moments framed by Saint Lucia’s iconic twin peaks; Kayakers take in the stunning coastline of Saint Lucia, where lush landscapes meet crystal-clear waters; Getting dirty in paradise, where the healing mud at Saint Lucia’s Sulphur Springs makes for unforgettable memories

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Weddings by Princess: Where Caribbean Dreams Begin Imagine saying “I do” against a backdrop of golden sunsets. At Princess Hotels & Resorts Jamaica, your wedding is more than a ceremony, it’s a luxurious escape designed for unforgettable moments. Whether you envision an intimate beachfront vow exchange or a grand celebration with family and friends, a dedicated wedding team brings every detail to life with elegance and ease.

Two properties, Princess Grand Jamaica and Princess Senses The Mangrove, offer distinct atmospheres for every couple. From family-friendly festivities to adultsonly sophistication, each resort provides customizable wedding packages, premium amenities, and stunning ceremony locations across sand, sea, and garden.

Enjoy pre-wedding pampering at Spa Princess, followed by a stay in the luxurious one-of-a-kind Bridal Suite featuring a full-length tri-fold mirror, perfect for getting ready in the dress you said yes to. Savor gourmet dining experiences curated by world-class chefs, while your guests unwind in tropical luxury. With in-house photography, curated décor, and personal coordinators to guide you every step of the way, your special day will unfold with effortless elegance and unforgettable charm.

Make your wedding not just a day, but a destination to remember. Begin your forever at Princess Hotels & Resorts Jamaica, where romance meets refined Caribbean charm.

Visit princess-hotels.com to start planning your dream celebration.

TOP TO BOTTOM: Have your first dance amidst the captivating charm of the mangroves; The Bridal Suite offers you privacy and a host of exclusive amenities; A private dream Island—perfect for an enchanting wedding ceremony

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Grand Hyatt Baha Mar The Bahamas

Grand Grand Hyatt Hyatt Baha Baha Mar Mar offers offers more more than than 200,000-square-feet 200,000-square-feet of of indoor indoor and and outdoor outdoor event event space, space, including including the the Baha Baha Mar Mar Convention, Convention, Arts Arts & & Entertainment Entertainment Center Center featuring featuring original original works works from from Bahamian Bahamian artists. artists.

This expansive expansive resort resort has has hosted hosted celebrations celebrations of of all all sizes, sizes, This from from unique unique beachside beachside ceremonies ceremonies to to intimate intimate poolside poolside wedweddings, dings, in in an an elegant elegant waterside waterside chapel, chapel, or or amid amid the the opulence opulence of of their their grand grand ballroom. ballroom. Grand Grand Hyatt Hyatt Baha Baha Mar’s Mar’s team team of of

GRAND

dedicated dedicated wedding wedding specialists specialists can can also also help help you you incorporate incorporate your cultural traditions into your wedding.

With your cultural traditions into your wedding. With venues venues that that can can accommodate accommodate up up to to 1,800 1,800 guests, guests, they they can can flawlessly flawlessly host host large-scale, large-scale, multi-cultural, multi-cultural, and and kosher kosher weddings. weddings.

To To discover discover the the possibilities possibilities for for your your day, day, call call 1-242-788-7339 1-242-788-7339 or or email email bahamarweddings@hyatt.com bahamarweddings@hyatt.com and and reference reference code code BG25.

BG25.

LEFT LEFT TO TO RIGHT: RIGHT: Picture-perfect Picture-perfect location location for for your your wedding wedding ceremony; ceremony; Wedding Wedding specialists specialists can can include include all all your your traditions traditions for for a a celebration celebration that’s that’s uniquely uniquely yours yours

YOUR DESTINATION DREAM WEDDING BEGINS HERE GRAND HYATT BAHA MAR Make a statement with one of the most stunning wedding venues in Nassau at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar. With flexible indoor and outdoor event space, we have the perfect backdrop for your big day - whether it’s a tranquil beach setting or a traditional ceremony in our waterside wedding chapel.

NUPTIALS

Our wedding and events team handle all the details to elevate your wedding, from helping you select food, beverage and vendors to delivering late-night snacks.

Personalize your day your way at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar. To book, call 242-788-7339 or email bahamarweddings@hyatt.com and mention code BG25.

WEDDINGS AWAY

The stately property.

Panama City In every issue, we scout a spot that’s perfect for tying the knot away from home. by Diane Forden

P

anama City, home to the iconic Panama Canal, is a destination replete with skyscrapers, rainforests, and a charming Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, located within the historic district, is a luxurious retreat that beckons couples to celebrate their love in this thriving international city. The The hotel at dusk. hotel’s French-style grandeur is enhanced with colorful Panamanian decor; many of the spacious guest rooms and suites are outfitted with wrought-iron balconies and terraces overlooking the Old Town or the Pacific. On-site curated weddings offer myriad location and menu options. Welcome guests with a cocktail hour at the rooftop Ammi Sky Bar or on the palm Situated on 900 acres of Panama’s Pacific tree- and fountain-lined Courtyard, coast, the 118-room, 4-villa BUENAVENTURA especially romantic when lit with twinGOLF AND BEACH RESORT features its own kling evening lights. Have a seaside private beachfront, eight swimming pools, a spa ceremony on the Terrace against the and seven restaurants. expansive ocean backdrop, and host For an intimate getaway, consider the familyyour reception in the elegant Carnaval run, 25-room HOTEL PANAMONTE, a charming Ballroom that holds up to 200. Food boutique hotel known for its locally inspired cuisine. Nestled within Panama’s northwest Bomenus feature an artful fusion of Mediquete valley, this historical treasure is enhanced terranean and Panamanian dishes creby lush gardens and natural surroundings. ated by Michelin-starred chef Lorenzo Cozy up in LA BELLE CITE, a Panama City Di Gravio. Keep the party going at B&B-style guest house that excels in personalArcano, the perfect late-night spot for ized service. A scenic garden, outdoor pool and crafted cocktails and elevated rum tastbarbecue facilities are on offer, and the surings. (wedding fees start at $20,000 rounding neighborhood showcases restaurants, for 80 guests; menus start at $90 per coffee shops and boutiques. guest; sofitel-legend-panama.com). •

A look at the lobby.

Romantic touches abound.

more favorites

PHOTOGRAPHY: SOFITEL LEGEND CASCO VIEJO

more

A guest room.

legally wed Before tying the knot in Panama, a number of steps are required: Couples’ passports must show legal arrival into Panama. Birth certificates and certificates of single status must be apostilled and authenticated by the Panamanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with proof of legal status in Panama and a notarized affidavit of single status. Prenuptial health tests and health certificates issued by a licensed doctor in Panama must be presented at least 15 days prior to the wedding, and two adult witnesses—not related to the couple—need valid IDs or passports.

Nov/Dec 2025 BRIDALGUIDE.COM 79

romantic

WEDDINGS

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The Perfect Balance of

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Trust your wedding to Amrit Ocean Resort and enjoy an experience as unique as your love. From an intimate oceanfront ceremony to lavish, multi-day Desi Weddings to our signature Wellness Weddings that offer holistic harmony for your entire wedding party, we’re here to turn your dreams into reality.

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iviera Beach may not be the first destination that comes to mind for a beachfront wedding in Florida, but it should be. Within this Palm Beach County city lies Singer Island, an idyllic outcropping representing Florida’s easternmost point and home to the unique Amrit Ocean Resort.

Created as a wellness retreat from the ground up (with crystals embedded in its very foundation), Amrit takes a holistic approach to well-being that’s immediately evident to couples seeking to take their vows here. Wedding planners, gourmet chefs, and Ayurvedic spa experts work together to create extraordinary events.

The resort offers authentic Indian Weddings and signature Wellness Weddings as unique, multi-day options, while traditional weddings thrive equally well across seven oceanfront acres. Indoor venues include the grand Hibiscus Ballroom and stunning Tulā restaurant, while outdoor options feature the sprawling Ocean Terrace overlooking Singer Island’s pristine shoreline and the private beach itself.

Accommodations blend sophistication and serenity with modern, minimalist décor. The 19-story tower offers options from single king suites to expansive 2-bedroom Wellness Residences. And during their stay, guests will appreciate that dining at Tulā and Lala focuses on freshness, blending local ingredients with international flavors. Catering by these same chefs brings an elegant touch to receptions as well.

The resort’s centerpiece is its 4-story, 103,000sq. ft. spa—a tranquil space offering everything from ancient Ayurvedic rituals to cutting-edge treatments. The signature Aayush Hydrothermal Ritual alternates hot and cold pools along an invigorating thermal journey. The full-service salon located here can be reserved privately for wedding parties, ensuring that everyone looks their best for the big day.

From venues to catering, spa services to accommodations, Amrit Ocean Resort is a spectacular choice for oceanfront weddings. With deep roots in holistic wellness and experienced professionals ready to orchestrate every detail, it’s surprisingly relaxing too.

Learn more at AmritOcean.com | 844.692.6748 | Singer Island, Riviera Beach, Florida

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DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT

The archipelago captures the essence of the entire region.

Y

by Jenna Mahoney

es it’s a single commonwealth country of the Caribbean, but the Bahamas, an archipelago of 700 islands that stretches over 590 miles from southeast Florida

to northern Hispaniola, is as diverse as the Caribbean itself.

The verdant tropical environments, the sun-kissed beautiful beaches and the vacation vibes vary from island to island, yet they all are replete with awesome adventures, historic sites, pretty pastel buildings and romantic retreats from which to savor it all. Whichever you choose to realize your happily ever after, you’re sure to experience why so many call the Bahamas the best.

86 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025

Capital Chic

Nassau, the archipelago’s largest and most inhabited island, is often said to reflect the finest aspects of the Bahamas. Here, opportunities for water sports are endless: Impeccable eateries led by well-known chefs and ramshackle seafood shacks welcome visitors and locals alike, and the shopping here is world-renowned, which is one of the reasons the island is so popular with cruise ships. But perhaps the true draw on Nassau are the luxury resorts that sprawl over picturesque gardens to meet the golden shores. The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort is one such grande dame that’s home to an intimate 107 rooms set upon 35 acres,

PHOTOGRAPHY: FOUR SEASONS OCEAN CLUB

The Bahamas

The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort on Nassau.

Set for romance at Sandals Royal Bahamian.

The charming Potlatch Club.

Rosewood Baha Mar is a love nest.

PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP) THE POTLATCH CLUB; SANDALS ROYAL BAHAMIA; ROSEWOOD BAHA MAR; SANDALS ROYAL BAHAMIA; FOUR SEASONS OCEAN CLUB; THE POTLATCH CLUB

Classic Bahamas.

the most notable of which are exquisite gardens that were Instagram-famous before the term even existed. On the white sands of Cable Beach stands the Rosewood Baha Mar, which dazzles with sophistication and luxury across its 237 rooms, and boasts access to the amenities and eateries of the larger resort complex.

Dive in

When it comes to activities, watersports reign supreme (this is an archipelago, after all). At Sandals Royal Bahamian, Scuba, sailing, windsurfing, glass-bottom boat tours and snorkeling are all on offer. Plus there’s a private island to explore for a romantic experience with castaway

vibes. Sister property Sandals Emerald Bay on the Out Island of Exuma boasts the same extensive activity menu along with access to one of the only-in-Bahamas experiences, swimming with pigs—yes, pigs.

On Wednesdays (and every day), we wear pink in the Bahamas.

Looking Rosy

First opened in 1923 as a private club and later a hotel, the 15-room cottage and villa Potlatch Club is an idyllic Out Island retreat that stretches over 20 garden acres and a picturesque beach.

While utterly pampering, the hideaway is very much an embodiment of its position on the island of Eleuthera, a 110-mile by two-mile stretch of pristine pink beaches edged by tranquil waters robust with tropical fish ¢

The tranquil grounds of The Ocean Club.

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DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT Beach Beach vibes vibes unlocked unlocked at at O2 O2 Beach Beach Club.

Club.

Barbados A lesser-known island shows why it deserves a place in the sun.

by Jenna Mahoney

88 BRIDALGUIDE.COM

A Toast to Life, Love

Barbados is proud of its heritage as the progenitor of rum. During the 17th century, plantation slaves discovered that molasses, a byproduct of the island’s burgeoning sugar-cane production, could be fermented and distilled into a fine spirit. Mount Gay Rum, one of the most storied brands and oldest distilleries, was born here in 1703. As such, rum punch, Barbados Planter’s Punch and other cocktails are popular here, as is Banks Beer. The local brewery was launched in 1961.

PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF RESORTS

t

he ABC islands—Aruba, Barbados, Curaçao—are a collection of rugged landmasses in the Southern Antilles where the trade winds consistently caress the shores of the inky waters of the Atlantic. Taking its name from “los barbados,” which refers to the bearded fig trees of the island, Barbados, with its pristine natural attractions, robust cultural sites and a small but mighty surf scene, is the most honeymoon-perfect of the trio of islands. Rounding out the offerings is an excellent local food scene—don’t miss the national dish, cou-cou and flying fish—and singular accommodations that run the gamut from a revamped pirate’s castle turned hotel to a selection of ultra luxe allinclusive resorts. PS: Barbados is also the birthplace of rum—cheers to a happy honeymoon!

Deep reverie at Sandals Royal Barbados.

It is said that George Washington called grapefruit, which originated on the island, “forbidden fruit,” when he visited in 1750. Barbados was a stop on his only venture outside of the United States.

Deep Roots

Barbados truly prides itself on its historic offerings for visitors. Among the many sites are the Morgan Lewis Windmill, the largest and only surviving complete sugar windmill across the Caribbean; the circa 1658 St. Nicholas Abbey, one of only three Jacobean mansions in the Western Hemisphere, and Nide Israel, a synagogue that dates back to the 17th century.

Surf’s Up

As a region, the Caribbean is celebrated for its placid, crystalline waters, not breaks that invite visitors

The sparkling main pool at Sandals.

Honeymoon daydream realized.

to ride their crests. However, thanks to the prevailing tradewinds, Barbados does, in fact, boast surfable swells for a solid eight months a year. Novices can head to South Point and Freights on the island’s southern coast, while more experienced surfers will meet their match on the east coast, where Barbados’s most challenging waves will be found at Soup Bowl in Bathsheba.

Dive In

With all the amenities and none of the upcharges, all-inclusive resorts are a great choice for couples who want to be pampered. A postcard-

perfect ideal of honeymoon perfection, the adults-only Sandals Royal Barbados is positioned on a strand of untouched powdered sands with oversized palms and the best vantage point for viewing the sunset. Ultra-romantic amenities include indoor/outdoor living spaces, oversized tubs for two, zero-entry access to the Crystal lagoon and private butler service.

A more intimate option, the O2 Beach Club is a mod-meetsbeach all-inclusive resort that promises excellent service, endless activities and excellent cuisine in an Instagram-perfect setting. ¢ 89

REAL DESTINATION WEDDING

Amagansett For a daydream coastal destination wedding experience with an elevated appeal, this New York City couple kept their celebration relatively local—and thoroughly them.

Michelle and Johnny aglow in their happily ever after.

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CAPTION HERE PHOTOGRAPHY: SUSAN SHEK PHOTOGRAPHY

BY JENNA MAHONEY

C

hic, coastal, and close-by are three of the adjectives that describe the dreamy vision for New York City based couple Michelle Im and Johnny Kim, who swapped vows at a weekend celebration in Amagansett, NY, a hamlet on Long Island in the beachy resort area widely referred to as “the Hamptons,” just two hours from Manhattan. Immediately they became enchanted with the Roundtree, Amagansett—“the grounds are serene and beautifully kept, the cottages are chic and cozy. It’s understated luxury at its best—with all the charm of a modern country estate just minutes from the beach and local attractions.” Together with their guests, Michelle and Johnny celebrated each other, their shared heritage and combined future in the boutique charm of the luxuriously laid-back property.

Dream Weaver

PHOTOGRAPHY: SUSAN SHEK PHOTOGRAPHY

While Michelle and Johnny were enamored with their chosen wedding venue, they didn’t realize its full potential until they began working with wedding planner Christine Ferguson. “She helped us see how every area—from the lawn to the cottages—could be transformed into a layered, elevated experience that felt completely our own,” says Michelle. The planner helped design an event that seamlessly moved from indoors to out, featured local flowers and food and a deeply personal ceremony exquisitely timed to coincide with the golden hour. With Christine’s guidance, the couple achieved their paramount goal, “a celebration that felt both refined and relaxed.” ➺

The florals were locally sourced.

Together on the beach buggy.

Ceremony-ready.

The stately setting.

“The local vendors and experiences are incredible. From farmfresh ingredients to boutique accommodations and talented creatives, the area is filled with resources that made our wedding not only beautiful but deeply rooted in place.”

REAL DESTINATION WEDDING

The welcoming dining area.

“Amagansett is the perfect balance of “WeRe que idebis aped quae. Et intimacy and luxury.

It has all the high-end touches you’d expect from the Hamptons, but with a quieter, more soulful energy.”

Perfectly pretty.

East End Eats Michelle and Johnny have a list of favorite restau-

rants along Long Island’s South Fork. “Each spot showcases a different side of the East End—casual charm, refined dining, and intimate escapes—all within easy reach,” they explain. For lunch, the couple loves popping into the laid-back yet chic Wölffer Kitchen or going casual at Mary’s Marvelous. “Duryea’s Montauk is a must for dinner—especially during golden hour. The seafood is incredibly fresh, and the dockside views are unmatched.” For a romantic evening, they agree “Il Buco al Mare in Amagansett offers the perfect ambiance: candlelight, coastal Italian flavors and that effortlessly elevated Hamptons vibe.”

Sharing in the joy.

Garden of Delights

“The menu was designed to feel like a chic coastal garden party.” There were passed hors d’oeuvres, curated stations and intentional entrées that showcased the local bounty of ingredients. In a nod to the couple’s heritage, there was late-night Korean fried chicken and instant ramen. “The instant ramen became a surprise hit—guests absolutely loved it!”

92 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025

The Roundtree is pet friendly.

legally Marriage licenses are required in the wed state of New York, and must be obtained in person by the couple. Each must furnish proof of age (requirements of exact documents may vary by county), the required fee ($40) and, if applicable, a divorce decree or death certificate. Licenses are valid for 60 days. And there’s a 24-hour waiting period.

Dog-themed details.

PHOTOGRAPHY: SUSAN SHEK PHOTOGRAPHY

For Art’s Sake

Since the late 1800s, the Hamptons have been at the center of America’s storied art scenes.

Illustrators and painters of the Shinnecock Hills Summer School welcomed such names as Winslow Homer in the early 19th century, and the area was the cradle of Abstract Expressionism in the 1950s and 1960s. A visit to Jackson Pollock’s house where he worked alongside partner Lee Krasner is a popular outing complete with the opportunity for visitors to craft their own paint splatters. The nearby Parrish Art Museum displays more contemporary works by local artists, and the LongHouse Reserve is a fantastical expanse of gardens and outdoor sculpture.

Welcome to the Roundtree.

Tucked behind privet hedges along Main Street in a serene Hamptons enclave, the Roundtree, Amagansett is the perfect perch from which to enjoy all the riches of Long Island’s splashy East End. The intimate downtown and some of the local beaches are within walking distance, as are several of the area’s most celebrated farm stands. Marshlands and protected nature preserves, seafood outposts made for the ’gram and innovative art venues are all close by. Of course, burrowing in at one of the hideaway’s 14 accommodations would also be an understandable way to spend your stay. Comprising individual clapboard cottages and a stately main house, the quiet property, which was once a working farm, is at the same time cozy and coastal chic.

Beach cruisers are available for exploring the quaint downtown and epic beaches with golden dunes nearby, or guests can opt to be transported via the property’s beach buggy. But the on-site amenities may hold your attention, too.

There’s a sparkling pool positioned at the back of a pretty lawn shaded by old-growth trees, and a series of games including the ever-popular cornhole.

There’s also a fire pit that hosts evening s’mores gatherings, which may compete for the coolest amenity ever—a makeyour-own sundae bar (room rates start at $495 a night; theroundtreehotels.com). 

PHOTOGRAPHY:THE ROUNDTREE

travel notes

wedding details VENUE: The Roundtree, Amagansett PLANNING AND DESIGN: Christine Ferguson Events PHOTOGRAPHY: Susan Shek Photography VIDEOGRAPHY: Kenneth Cooper Films FLORAL DESIGNER: Rachel Cho Floral

A chic room.

DJ: Elegant Music Group STATIONERY: Ceci New York; Papertree Studio BRIDAL GOWN: Berta SHOES: Jimmy Choo HAIR AND MAKEUP: Elite Bridal Beauty

Amagansett’s beach.

Ready for two.

A romantic perch.

FIRST LOOK

Sneak a peek at one of the hottest new hotels where romantic amenities are always on offer. by Jenna Mahoney

S

ometime in the last decade, sloths surged to the top of the cutest-animal list, and the desire to observe them in their jungle habitats became a travel dream must-do. At the luxurious Nayara, a decadent sprawl of a resort complex within the rainforest of Costa Rica, sloths are certainly a draw—the expanse is a sanctuary for the animals—but those who check in here are treated to the ultimate in romantic amenities.

At the resort, every room has a private pool that’s fed by the thermal waters of the nearby volcano, Arenal, and guests can enjoy elevated dining and curated excursions.

The resort recently unveiled a renovation at Nayara Gardens, enhancing the already impressive property’s tranquil appeal. The complete and sustainable rebuild of this area welcomed a collection of casitas featuring local furnishings and plunge pools. The property also boasts a revamped spa and natural hot springs scattered throughout the jungle, along with swimming pools, walking trails that weave over suspended bridges, and breezy eateries.

On-property activities include outdoor painting classes, guided sloth-watching nature walks and complimentary yoga sessions offered in a palapa overlooking the awesome natural environment, (room rates start at $550 a night; nayararesorts.com).  94 BRIDALGUIDE.COM Nov/Dec 2025

A revamped casita.

PHOTOGRAPHY: NAYARA GARDENS

Nayara Gardens

Nayara with Arenal in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica’s rich nature.

Inside a romantic suite.

More Favorites The biggest draw in this area of Costa Rica is Arenal, the active volcano that feeds the natural springs at Nayara.

Hikes are popular during the day.

The coffee of Costa Rica is some of the world’s most celebrated. Tour a farm and enjoy a tasting experience at a number of nearby coffee farms. Hint: Many cultivate chocolate, too.

Hit the rapids on the nearby Balsa River, which offers the best conditions for beginners.

A private plunge pool.

One of the stellar eateries.

BridalGuide.com WONA

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REEM ACRA

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Bacalar is where the loveliest fairy tales take place.

5

The Mexican Caribbean

Say “I do” in a paradise where love becomes the most magical journey.

The Mexican Caribbean invites you to begin your incredible story amidst lush beauty, authentic luxury, and meaningful experiences.

Imagine intimate beach ceremonies in Bacalar, Tulum, Holbox or Isla Mujeres, glamorous resort weddings in Cancún and the Riviera Maya, or sacred rituals in whimsical cenotes. Each celebration beautifully blends breathtaking settings with the vibrant spirit of Mexican traditions, ensuring every moment is truly unforgettable.

Every step toward the altar is a delight. With world-class wedding planners by your side, you’ll discover the perfect venue while being embraced by warm hospitality at every turn.

Everyone is dedicated to helping you craft a day—or night—that feels uniquely special.

Cozy coastal moments in Cozumel.

Pure magic in Costa Mujeres..

But the romance doesn’t end at the altar. Celebrate your forever with an extraordinary honeymoon filled with private cenote swims, gazing at the sunset in a catamaran, rejuvenating spa rituals for two, and starlit dinners. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or both, the Mexican Caribbean is where unforgettable begins.

This is love in a new era—personal, memorable, meaningful, and forever full of wonder, elegance and vibes! Let the magic of the Mexican Caribbean be the enchanting backdrop for your love story!

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