Today's Bride Magazine | Style Wedding Guide 2024

magic

GUIDE EDITOR

Vivian Vassos submissions@todaysbride.ca

ART DIRECTOR

Zoe Gigis WWW.TODAYSBRIDE.CA

Cami Macca

AD DESIGNER

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Shannon Dameron shannon@todaysbride.ca

SALES MANAGER

Jennifer Gigis jen@todaysbride.ca

THE DRESS

06 ONE DAY, MANY WAYS

Gowns that can be worn more ways than one

BEAUTY NOTES

13 HOW TO GET THE LOOK

Easy hair and makeup tips

JEWELLERY

14 PUT A RING ON IT

Three Canadian designers talk the latest engagement ring trends

REAL WEDDINGS

22 HIGHER LOVE

Saying I do in the Alberta mountains

PLANNING/ INSPIRATION

26 SETTING THE TABLE

Two ways to add pops of colour or natural elements to your wedding day decor

MENSWEAR TRENDS

32 HAVE LOVE, WILL TRAVEL Destination wedding packing for the groom who needs an expert strategy

DESTINATION

WEDDINGS & HONEYMOON TRAVEL

34 HEAD FOR THE COAST

Mexico’s Costa Mujeres in Quintana Roo is the perfect backdrop for romance

COVER: Photography: Anna Krasovska, annakrasovska.com; Hair: Instyle by Myriam instylebymyriam.com;

Ica Bee icabee.com; Dress: XANA Couture xanacouture.com. Inset, left: Creative director and photographer @oceanblastphotography. Inset above: Truvelle.

ONE DAY, Many Ways

ONE OF THE BIGGEST TRENDS IN WEDDING GOWNS IS CONVERTIBLE DESIGN. HERE, GOWNS THAT CAN BE WORN MORE WAYS THAN ONE.

This Olana gown from Blue by Enzoani features detachable, o -the-shoulder lace and tulle straps/split cape. Remove the cape to reveal more of the t-and are silhouette and the embroidered details and strategic insets. Beauty note: choose a centre part and loose waves, held back by a statement making hair ornament.

Cape Crusader

Little Mermaid

A strapless gown with a complementary sweetheart neckline is a minimalist bride’s dream. The rear view, however, is dramatic, with a deep V and sheer corset-style buttons. Detach the oversized bow (another big trend) of this Nanelle gown from Blue by Enzoani to reveal the waterfall of covered buttons. Beauty note: A sleek ponytail leads the eye downward to the beautiful bow and button details.

On this spread:

Creative Director & Planner: Lisa K Events

Photography: Magna Arnott Photography

Dresses and Veils: Elisabeth and Beau

Hair Accessories, Earrings & Bracelets:

Sugarcane & Co.

Makeup Artist: Angela Xuereb

Hair Stylist: Cree Barrock ~ The Kuhler Bar

Dresses and Veils: Elisabeth and Beau

Floral Designer: Lemon Tru e Designs

Venue: Caledon Mountain Events

Cakes, Cake Pops & Donuts: Dolce Vita Cakes

Rosdof Park Cross Back Clear Chairs: Alamo Events

Model: Sasha Powell-Balagat

Three Times the Fun

This hand-beaded 3-in-1 mermaid gown is the ultimate in wedding day versatility, with its detachable tulle ball gown skirt. The o -the-shoulder straps are removable, allowing the gown to also be worn strapless.

Creative director and photography: @oceanblastphotography

Creative director and hair and

makeup artist: @artistrybyrythm

Model: Kristen Rizzo

Wedding gown and accessories: @luxecollectionbridal

Bouquet: @tokenblooms

Studio: @pretoloft

Double Vision

The best dresses suit every body shape and size. We’re really happy to sea that for 2024, Gaby Bayona, the founder and creative director of Truvelle, the Vancouver-based bridal brand, has upped the gown game. Every gown comes in a range of sizes, from 0 - 26, with strategic tailoring, from added boning and waist- and hip-lines for better comfort and t. In these photographs, the models are wearing size 2 and size 20, showcasing how gorgeous, no matter your body type, you’ll be on your big day. Plus, detachable sleeves and shoulder swags add a delicate touch to the silhouette.

Photography: courtesy of Truvelle

Catch These Trains

Layer on a detachable skirt-like train for dramatic e ect during the ceremony, then remove it for the reception to reveal all the pretty details, from big bows to beaded fringe.

Creative director and photographer

@oceanblastphotography

Creative director and make-up artist

@anutaneja06

Hair stylist @instyle_by_myriam

Wedding gowns @chicelyfashion

Accessories @shopolaeda

Model @rocksa_ustynenko

Bridal bouquets @tokenblooms

Floral decor @bloomschooltoronto

@blushandbloom

Studio @pretoloft

BEAUTY NOTES

THE TOPPER

Two hair looks that look done, but provide a soft, feminine focus to the face and dress.

THE LOOK

A Hollywood glam side part is perfect for hair that’s slightly wavy; for a destination wedding, give the glam waves a beachy feel.

THE LOOK

This up-do feels modern –leaving some face-framing waves loose gives it an e ortlessly chic appeal and allows for the dramatic details on the back of the dress to play a starring role.

GET THE LOOK

’90S INSPIRED UPDO

The resurgence of ’90s-inspired updos has brought back imperfect yet e ortlessly chic styles with an organic, airy texture. The focal point of these looks is typically the apex or top of the head, often accentuated with face-framing pieces.

Here, Justin Rizzuto, the creative director of Mane house of hair and a L’Oréal Professionnel and Ys Park brand ambassador, gives us the expert way to do this ’do.

STEP 1

Begin by sectioning o the hair needed to frame your face. Give these sections a subtle curl using a curling iron.

STEP 2

Apply L'Oréal Professionnel Air Fix hairspray onto a styling brush. Starting from the nape of your neck, brush your perimeter hair upwards, gathering it into a high ponytail. While hairstylists often opt for a French twist, achieving this style solo can be challenging. Feel free to reapply hairspray for added hold as needed.

STEP 3

Curl the ponytail using a smaller barrel curling iron or wand. As you curl, twist the hair into a circular shape and secure it with pins, leaving some ends loose to maintain that airy texture.

FACE FORWARD

An overall colour palette of pinks – from bold fuchsia lips to powdery pink on the eyes and cheeks – keep the look fresh, with a healthy glow. Use a sparkly barrette to swoop back one side of this side-parted do, to keep the face in focus.

Start by lling in the brows, then line the eyes with an upward ick with Revlon ColorStay Multiplayer Liquid-Glide Eye Pencil in High Stakes. Get that blushing beauty glow. On the cheeks, try Revlon Face Illuminance Gel Serum Blush in Enchanting Mauve.

On the lips, try: Revlon’s ColorStay Suede Ink Lipstick in First Class or ColorStay Limitless Matte in Icon Era (both shown here), or ColorStay Suede Ink Lipstick in Tunnel Vision, a bright fuchsia similar to what our model is wearing.

STEP 1

STEP 2

Put a Ring on it

We asked three Canadian jewellery designers to give us their take on the latest sparklers.

Colour Cues

Toronto-based ne jewellery designer and CEO Anne Sportun celebrated the opening of her redesigned store in the city’s Queen Street West neighbourhood in early April. Sportun, who has been in the biz for more than 35 years says, “Solitaires continue to be our most requested style, with more brides moving away from a prong-set stone and gravitating towards smooth bezel settings for a clean and elegant design.” Antique-cut diamonds, unconventional shapes and horizontal set stones add a touch of individuality, she adds, while still honouring the timeless feeling of a solitaire. “Our customers are also choosing a thicker wedding band to complement their engagement ring or choosing to stack with multiple wedding bands.” And, more requests for coloured gemstones. “Sometimes, more is more!"

Ethical Ways

“It all started with my father,” says Virginie Roy, the founder and lead designer of Proud Diamond. “He worked with diamonds, but I was not as enthusiastic because of how they are mined.” Putting her convictions to work, Roy helped to to develop a lab-grown stone that would meet her – and her father’s –highly trained standards. The diamonds are as near awless as the mined variety, and even pleased her father’s discerning eye. “Oval-shaped diamonds and gemstones are making a comeback,” says Roy. “But I work with the wearer to create their own special piece of jewellery.” Gold is still the tone of choice for most of her clients; other standouts in Roy’s collection are the lab-grown emeralds and rubies in emerald-cut settings and the belt pave diamond ring in yellow gold.

Go Pear-Shaped

“This season, simple layered pieces with a little sparkle are making their way onto runways and down wedding aisles,” says Erin Tracy, the designer behind Erin Tracy Bridal and Fine Jewellery that celebrated its 20th anniversary last year. “Silver jewelry is also making a resurgence for 2024.” Gold is de nitely still in, says the Toronto-based designer, but she’s seeing a lot more silver tones. As for rings, “pear-shaped gems with a contour band and baguette shapes are trending.” Looking for a bridesmaid gift? Tracy suggests chain-link style bracelets or chunky hoop earrings. She also designs for men, and textures and layering are all gaining popularity.

Nobody Does Weddings Like

With over 1,000 style solutions available, Tip Top is the one-stop event shop with wedding bundles available starting from just $199.

Need to make sure your whole party is coordinated and looking good? With ‘Piece of Cake’, Tip Top’s wedding party suit coordinator, we take care of it all for you! You’ll have your party members, outfits & event set up in a matter of minutes. Try it today at TIPTOP.CA .

Escape at Palladium Hotel Group Properties in Costa Mujeres, Mexico

TRS Coral Hotel in Costa Mujeres, Mexico, offers an all-inclusive, adults-only experience equipped with stunning suites featuring private balconies, hydro-massage bathtubs, and beautiful views. Immediately upon checking in to the hotel, guests begin to experience 5-star treatment. Each of the hotel’s gorgeous suites features a spacious private balcony or furnished terrace, hydro-massage bathtubs, and breathtaking views of the magical Costa Mujeres. Guests can immerse themselves in a culinary experience, with the hotel featuring a private Ibiza-style beach club, 7 à la carte restaurants, 1 show cooking restaurant, and 18 bars.

TRS Coral Hotel guests have access to Infinite Indulgence®, which provides them with a personal butler. Guests at TRS Coral Hotel have the best of both worlds – exclusive restaurants, pools and other facilities and full access to Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa. Guests also have access to the Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre and Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness for sports and relaxation.

Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa is located on the distinguished Costa Mujeres beach in the Mexican Caribbean. Through their signature Infinite Indulgence®, this resort offers a five-star, all-inclusive experience for each guest. This is the perfect destination for friends, families, couples, and groups alike, as the resort offers a wide range of activities and services. The property is equipped with 670 suites across each section, ranging in size, view, and amenities. With 7 à la carte restaurants and 2 show-cooking restaurants, featuring cuisine including Japanese, Italian, and traditional Mexican food, there will be a restaurant for everyone’s palate. Guests looking to stay active will enjoy the Rafael Nadal Tennis Center, whether guests are pros or beginners. From world-class services of the Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness, to daily activities and games, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa & TRS Coral Hotel

Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort

Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa & TRS Coral Hotel

Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort

Coral Hotel

Nestled within the idyllic shores of Costa Mujeres in the Mexican Caribbean, Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa and TRS Coral Hotel offers couples to immerse themselves in an enchanting retreat filled with romance. Here, amidst the breathtaking beauty of the destination, love blossoms amidst 5-star indulgence and unparalleled hospitality.

For those seeking an adults-only retreat, the renowned TRS Coral Hotel awaits within the same complex. Here, an elevated, all-inclusive experience awaits couples, enveloped in an ambiance of pure romance. Each suite is equipped with exclusive butler service, ensuring personalized attention for every couple’s desires.

For an unparalleled relaxation experience, couples can retreat to Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness. This luxurious sanctuary offers an array of treatments, including special cabins for beauty treatments and a thermal zone. From enchanting couples massages to blissful hydrotherapy circuits, highly skilled therapists guide guests through a shared journey of relaxation, ensuring rejuvenation of the body and soul.

Couples looking to stay active can partake in a variety of beach-oriented activities, from snorkeling to kayaking, or enjoy professional tennis classes through a selection of training programs at the Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre, the first and only of Nadal’s facilities in North America. The ultimate entertainment experience awaits at the award-winning Chic Cabaret & Restaurant dinner and show concept. Chic Cabaret & Restaurant offers a sixcourse menu, accompanied by acrobatics, dance and a music show of all genres. The audience becomes part of the show with an immersive dining experience that moves through time and different parts of the world, couples will encounter a captivating blend of ambiance, culinary excellence, and mesmerizing performances.

Couples looking to celebrate their engagement or arrange a vow renewal, can turn their vision into reality with the exquisite Weddings by Palladium. Whether it’s a surprise proposal, a beach celebration, a glamorous reception, or meticulous honeymoon planning, Weddings by Palladium transforms dreams into reality. Couple benefits from the expertise of a dedicated wedding coordinator, ensuring a stress-free and magical journey. With the support of experienced wedding coordinators, couples can enjoy a stress-free celebration, knowing that every detail is carefully attended to for a truly unforgettable experience. Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa, Family Selection at Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa, and TRS Coral Hotel ensure a wedding experience that embraces every guest’s desires, creating unforgettable moments with paradise as the backdrop.

KSENJIA AND VLAD

HIGHER LOVE ❤

e mountains of Alberta were the inspiration for this Edmonton couple’s wedding day.

“We met at Local where I was a server/bartender,” says Ksenjia. “Vlad apparently told his friend ’that’s wifey’ when he saw me, but I was in a relationship at the time.” She ended up serving him again a couple of years a er their rst encounter.

“He remembered my name, which really caught me o -guard because no one ever remembers my name since it’s so di cult!” But then he started sitting at the bar as a regular, recalls Ksenjia, and the rest is history.

“ e proposal location was so incredible, and completely unexpected,” she says. “Vlad took me to the University of Alberta Botanic Gardens and we had the cutest little picnic. I did notice he was acting a bit strange, and kept texting someone – it turned out he was messaging the photographer to keep him in the loop of our location. It was a beautiful moment, and everyone around us started clapping!”

e inspiration for the couple’s wedding really revolved around the beauty of Alberta. “We are both from neighbouring countries in Eastern Europe, so the fact that we met in Edmonton is really special to us. We were set on getting married in the mountains, and once we saw Stewart Creek we knew right away that was the spot.” Ksenjia’s advice when it comes to wedding planning would be to trust your gut. “It is really helpful having a supportive group of family and friends who are able to share their opinions, but in the end you will be happiest if you do your wedding the way you want to. We have no regrets!”

Photography

Henny Hwang, Hennygraphy www.hennygraphy.com

Gown boutique Blush & Raven @blushandravenyyc

Venue

Stewart Creek Golf & Country Club @stewartcreekgolf

Seamstress

Ksenjia’s advice when it comes to wedding planning would be to trust your gut.

Yara the Tailorette @yara_the_tailorette

Dress designer Newhite @newhite_bridal

Veil

Hotel

Solara Resort

Makeup artist Mylynn Lam @makeupbymylynn

Hair

Rachel Jones @rjstylesco

Spray tan

Lauren @glitzspraytanning

Cake KAKE @kakebydarci

Day of Coordinator

Christy @beyondtheproposal

Atelier Elise @atelierelise

Bouquet/Boutonniere

Lena Hayduk @flowersbylenahayduk

Earrings A.B. Ellie

@a.b.ellie

Chairs/Plates

Mountain Event Rentals

TROPICAL PUNCH

Can’t do a destination wedding but want it to feel like one? Start with the venue. If you’re thinking about a fall or winter wedding, look for a location that features large windows that let in the natural light.

Next, think of oral arrangements. Bright colours, such as pink, green and orange, add a juicy bit of happiness. Check with your local orist or your oral designer to see if they may have any exotic or tropical owers that can be added to the mix. Try orchids, anthurium, ginger, protea or monsteras. Add a sprig of orchid to the bridal bouquet and in the groom’s boutonniere instead of a pocket square.

Cocktails mixed with tropical fruits with edible owers as garnishes or served in oraletched or beaded glassware add a breezy feeling. Palm fronds and oversized banana leaves can also serve as decor elements for your canapé and dessert table. Have a little fun with a Champagne tower, to keep it on theme, make it pink Champagne!

Keeping the tableware simple, but in a punchy pink and green colourway won’t take away from the owers but will only add to the “heat.” Simple yet sculptural pink plates and green sage napkins maintain a harmony with the tropical oral arrangements.

NEUTRAL BOHO

Where bohemian charm meets timeless elegance, where the beauty of nature takes centre stage in a celebration of love and creativity. This aesthetic weaves together elements of earthiness, whimsy and sophistication through a tablescape that is sure to enchant.

At the heart of it lies a table that seems to have been plucked straight from a verdant forest glade. Earthy orals, arranged with artful abandon, appear to grow organically from the very wood of the table itself, infusing the scene with a sense of wild beauty and natural allure. Warm wood charger plates provide a rustic yet re ned foundation, while sage green stone dinnerware adds a touch of subtle elegance to the table.

Clear, elegant glassware sparkles in the soft light, casting re ections that dance across the table. Nude gauze napkins and a delicately draped runner echo the earthy tones of the setting, while gold taper candle holders, adorned with taupe candles, lend a ickering warmth to the scene. Seed paper stationary, with its neutral-toned wild ower accents, adds a whimsical touch, tying together the natural theme with a sense of timeless romance.

But it's not just the decor that sets this shoot apart; it's the stories behind each element that truly make it shine. Every vendor involved is a local, women-owned and operated business, infusing the project with a spirit of community, creativity, and empowerment. From the dreamy orals to the handcrafted stationery, each detail is a testament to the talent and passion of these remarkable women.

A perfect blend of bohemian charm and timeless sophistication, with a focus on bringing the natural environment to the table. It's a breath of fresh air, a celebration of love and nature, and an inspiration for couples seeking to infuse their special day with beauty, creativity, and a touch of wild romance.

Tableware

Danielle Russell, Simply Settings simplysettings.ca

Venue

Cellar 52, The Stella Collective cellar52.ca thestellacollective.ca

Planning + Coordination Plan It Right Events planitrightevents.ca

Florals

The Garden Shed Guelph gardenshedguelph.ca

Stationary The Good Card thegoodcard.ca

Honey House Photography honeyhousephotography. mypixieset.com

WHAT A WEDDING PLANNER WILL AND WILL NOT DO FOR YOU

AFTER TWO YEARS OF UNCHARTERED WEDDING TERRITORY, PLANNERS ARE MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER!

With the state of the world, weddings have changed a lot in last couple of years and so have the ways in which couples are approaching wedding planning. After an almost two-year hiatus, it seems everyone wants to get married, and they want to get married NOW! As couples learned, working with a wedding planner is essential to navigate the wedding world and to protect your investment on your big day. Because couples have realized the necessity of a wedding planner, there has been a noticeable shift in expectations of what wedding planners can and cannot do for you.

What has COVID taught us about wedding planning?

WHAT WEDDING PLANNERS CAN AND WILL DO FOR YOU:

A wedding planner can save you time, stress, and money

A wedding planner’s main role is to help you navigate the world of weddings. They will be sure you stick to your budget and avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary expenses.

Planners can tailor your wedding professionals to the best people for your wedding

Your wedding should be a reflection of the two of you and a wedding planner has experience with many different wedding professionals, so they can suggest the vendors that will be best suited to you and your needs.

Can a planner help with changing wedding dates?

A wedding planner can educate you in wedding etiquette

There is so much to know about proper etiquette – from wedding stationery to hosting a large event. A properly trained, certified wedding planner can help you every step of the way.

WEDDING PLANNERS GUIDE YOU IN ORGANIZING THE MOST AMAZING GUEST EXPERIENCE:

Should couples be worried about planning in 2022?

• Wedding planners live and breathe weddings and are fully immersed in the events world. They are able to help you create the best guest experience and suggest things you may have never even heard of.

• Planners will make recommendations based on what’s best suited to you and your wants, needs and budget.

When it comes to planning stress, what is your advice?

• Planners schedule appointments and meetings with your wedding vendors and venue to fit everyone’s schedules. In order for a professional to manage your wedding day, they need to work with you in the weeks leading up to the wedding. They will create the wedding schedules and be informed about absolutely everything about the wedding to properly manage it for you.

• Planners ensure the little things aren’t overlooked. We will strongly advise that you get wedding insurance for the wedding day. Implementing special moments into the timeline and to-do lists on your wedding day so nothing gets missed by you, your family or the photographer.

• A wedding planner’s job is to present options and educate you so that you can make informed decisions. Planners adhere to our ethics and best business practices.

• While wedding planners will help with negotiations and working with other vendors, they can also help you to understand why certain things cost what they do, and educate you on the labour and creation side of what you are paying for.

WHAT WEDDING PLANNERS WON’T DO FOR YOU:

Wedding planners are not your personal assistant and they do not know your personal or family relationships, so there are certain things they cannot or will not do. They won’t:

• Create your guest list and arrange your seating plan

• Decide on your wedding budget

• Sign contracts and pay vendors or make decisions for you

What three things should a couple book first?

• They will not step in on just the day of the wedding

• Be your bartender, bus person, driver, pick-up/delivery person, MC, cakecutter, napkin-folder, or cleanup crew

• We have very specific roles and duties for your wedding but most importantly we will be your voice of reason, sounding board and cheerleader. We will have your best interests at heart every step of the way.

• Process or obtain your legal documents

• Nickle and dime other wedding professionals

• Be a therapist, bouncer, or security guard

• Tolerate physical or verbal abuse

Photography Motion D Photography

IS YOUR WEDDING PLANNER CERTIFIED?

HAVE LOVE, WILL TRAVEL

Destination wedding packing for the groom needs an expert strategy. We asked Cynthia Florek, creative director at Tip Top and style expert to give us her top tips.

“It’s about evolution not revolution, especially in men’s suiting. Colour will de nitely be a major in uence going forward and isn’t slowing down,” says Florek. Another key to your look on your big day? “A perfectly tailored suit will always be in style and on trend,” she adds.

Florek recommends suiting your personal style: A slim t suit, which is designed a little closer to the body or a modern t, which is more generous throughout the arms, chest and leg for a roomier t. Here, Florek gives us a few more great ideas for the getaway wedding.

STRESS LESS: Pack Light

When packing for a destination wedding, it’s always best to choose light and breathable materials. It's also recommended to pack clothing that doesn’t easily wrinkle. Packing your suit in a suit bag will help reduce wrinkles and stains while keeping every piece fresh and put together, just like you packed it.

Check out the lookbook Wedding Lookbooks – Tip Top. The company has also launched a personalized shopping platform called ‘Piece of Cake,’ where you can easily coordinate all your wedding party’s suit styling and shopping needs. Don’t know your t? Try the t nder Find Your Fit Quiz | Tip Top | Canada's tailor since 1909.

BE FEARLESS: Play With Colour

Destination weddings can take you about anywhere these days, but if you’re heading somewhere hot, there are some things to keep in mind to help you prepare. Have some fun with your colour choice! A tropical setting can inspire you to choose a lighter or brighter coloured suit. You can try switching up out ts from day to night by transitioning lighter colours like light pink or sage green for deeper, richer tones like forest green or burgundy.

JACKET NOT ALWAYS REQUIRED: Vested Interest

A great way to diversify your look is opting for a vest in lieu of a blazer so you can dress according to the weather. For those looking for more subtle changes, accessories and ties are an easy way to change up your look. Ties can sometimes feel restricting in the heat. I suggest swapping the tie for a pocket square to add some are and keep comfort top of mind. Floral pins are another simple accessory that doesn’t take up much space in your luggage.

FOR THE

HEAD COAST

Canadians love Mexico, for getaways and for destination weddings and honeymoons, especially the much-loved Quintana Roo resort towns of Cancun and Playa del Carmen.

But, if you’re looking for a new, lesser-travelled but just as gorgeous spot to try, check out Costa Mujeres, a slice of paradise just north of Cancun on the Mexican Caribbean coast.

“ e region o ers a diverse selection of venues beyond just beaches, including cenotes in the middle of the jungle, caves, boats, catamarans, terraces, gardens, villages and more,” says Elina Pasos, weddings & romance manager, Quintana Roo. “ is makes it a truly unique and versatile destination for couples looking to celebrate their love in a distinctive and unforgettable setting.” Here, we get the inside story.

Costa Mujeres is relatively under the radar compared to Cancun. How do you work with the destination to help promote it as a wedding and/or honeymoon destination? I think many brides choose Mexico for a destination wedding but might be looking for a less-travelled but still full-service and easy to get to resort or hotel.

ELINA PASOS: Costa Mujeres in particular has become a popular choice due to its convenient location, proximity to the airport, luxury allinclusive resorts, and most notably, its beaches, which remain mostly free of seaweed throughout the year. e natural reef surrounding the area acts as a protective barrier, ensuring a clean setting for weddings and honeymoons. is is a signi cant factor for people looking to have a beachfront wedding. As a Convention Bureau promoting the 12 brands/destinations of the Mexican Caribbean, including the newest addition, Costa Mujeres, our primary goal is to position all destinations as ideal choices for weddings and honeymoons. We actively engage in trade shows and expos worldwide, focusing on romance and weddings, where we directly interact with couples to understand their preferences and suggest tailored options to meet their needs, as well as with wedding specialists and planners.

What is it about Costa Mujeres and Cancun that make them a favourite for destination weddings and honeymoons?

EP: Both Costa Mujeres and Cancun are highly sought-after due to several key factors. Firstly, the natural beauty of both places is undeniable, with pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Cancun's hotel zone is especially popular due to its dual o ering of beautiful beachfront and stunning lagoons, which are perfect for sunsets. On the other hand, Costa Mujeres is famous for its seaweedfree beaches. Both destinations o er a diverse range of accommodation

options to suit di erent preferences and budgets. From luxurious resorts to boutique hotels, there are options for everyone, including adults-only and family-friendly options. Both locations also o er a wide range of activities and attractions for couples and their guests to enjoy during their stay before or after the wedding. ese include water sports, cultural excursions, ne dining experiences, and vibrant nightlife. Plus their wedding services. Both Cancun and Costa Mujeres are equipped with experienced wedding planners, vendors and venues that specialize in hosting weddings and honeymoons.

is ensures that couples can enjoy a seamless and stress-free planning experience. Moreover, because of the location, it is easy for vendors to provide services. Finally, accessibility and ight connectivity. Both Cancun and Costa Mujeres are easily accessible from Cancun International Airport, which makes it convenient for couples and their guests to travel to the destination for their special day. e airport has direct ights to 18 cities in Canada, 38 cities in the United States, 19 cities in Europe and 19 cities in Latin America.

Do you consult with the resorts, for example, Palladium, that provide wedding services?

EP: We stay in regular communication with various resorts to keep ourselves updated with any changes regarding their venues, news and any other relevant information. Our approach to working with resorts involves inviting them to be co-exhibitors at trade shows that we attend. is way, they can promote their resort under the brand of the Mexican Caribbean. We provide a variety of events such as Wedding Salon, Romance Travel Show, LGBTQ wedding expo, and so on, and they can choose which ones to participate in. We always have a representative from the Mexican Caribbean present to assist couples with more options. We also maintain a database of resorts that we can recommend to couples when they require speci c information.

How easy (or di cult) is it to get married in your beautiful part of the world?

EP: In the Mexican Caribbean, getting married is not di cult at all. Legal weddings, multicultural weddings, and ceremonies whether cultural, religious, or LGBTQ-oriented, are all seamlessly accommodated. Hotels and private venues in the Mexican Caribbean are well-prepared to host a wide range of events, ensuring that every couple's unique needs and preferences are met. ey actively seek certi cations such as South Asian wedding certi cations or LGBTQ certi cations, and even educational programs to provide the best experience to people with disabilities while attending an event. is commitment to diversity and inclusivity makes the Mexican Caribbean a welcoming destination for all types of weddings. You can nd requirements for legal weddings on our webpage: Find a List of Marriage Requirements in the Mexican Caribbean.

Any nal thoughts or advice?

EP: Choosing a destination or hotel for a wedding can be challenging due to the multitude of options available. We recommend seeking out wedding planners rst. Wedding planners are experienced professionals who can o er valuable guidance and assistance in selecting the perfect destination for this day. We have built a database of wedding specialists whom we have personally met and established relationships with. What we o er them is knowledge and updates about our beautiful destination so they can pass that on to their future customers. Attending expos and events dedicated to weddings is also a great way for couples to gain knowledge and insights from experts in the industry about all of the options. In Quintana Roo, there is a vast selection of renowned vendors available to ensure that couples can enjoy the most important day of their lives stress-free.

mexicancaribbean.travel

This spread: Scenes from Costa Mujeres

PLAN THE WEDDING OF YOUR DREAMS

Whether it’s sleek sophistication, quiet elegance or an unexpected touch of adventure, Niagara Parks Weddings has the perfect answer. Exchange your vows in a garden so magnificent it will take your breath away, then celebrate your love at a reception venue like no place on Earth.

Trust our experienced event specialist to help you create memories for a lifetime at one of our spectacular venues. From showers and engagement parties to weddings and anniversary events, look to us to help bring your dream to life.

Along our 56 kilometres, Niagara Parks offers nine picturesque ceremony locations and four stunning reception venues.