World Bride Magazine, International Multi-cultural Bridal Magazine

MAGAZINE LATIN ISSUE 2016

GLOBAL DESIGNER TAKEOVER FRANCESCA MIRANDA, ROSA CLARA, AND MANY MORE

DESTINATION LATIN AMERICA COLOMBIA, CUBA, CHILE, BOLIVIA, BRAZIL AND ARGENTINA

ESSENTIAL HOTELS THE HARD ROCK, THE SOFITEL AND MANY MORE LUXURIOUS PLACES TO STAY

HAIR DAZE

WE SPEND TIME WITH THE AMMON CARVER BEAUTY EXPERTS

THE WEDDING REGISTRY FINDING THE PERFECT GIFT, THE KITCHEN EDITION

FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS WE SHARE THE TOP FOUR TIPS FOR BUYING YOUR VERY FIRST HOME

WORLD BRIDE MAGAZINE

LATIN ISSUE 2016 . $9.99(US)

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CONTENTS

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The Colombian Way I really had no idea what to expect, and really tried to disregard what the media feeds the American people about the “violent state” of Colombia (Pablo Escobar, anyone?) and be open to the experiences the people of Cartagena had to share.

10 CONTRIBUTORS The creatives involved in keeping your wedding dreams alive.

Real Weddings

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18 LEONIE & MARIO We met one sizzling summer afternoon at a restaurant in New York.

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16 ROBLES & SHIELDS Naira marries her long time love Leighton Shields.

Finance 14 YOUR FIRST HOME For most people, a home is the largest purchase they'll make.

Beauty 38 AMMON CARVER That special styling for your wedding day hair.

44 SUMMERTIME Warm climates and summertime are all about natural, yet glistening sun-kissed skin.

Planning 104 MARRIED AT THE NOVOTEL Wedding season is in full effect; destination nuptials account for a large portion of the wedding market.

Pour Homme

92 FRAGRANCES FOR MEN Hit or miss when it comes to choosing the right foundation.

94 GIFT IDEAS Treat those men to something special.

Globe Trotting 106 JOURNEY THROUGH CARTAGENA We discovered beauty is beyond skin deep.

112 ENCHANTING CHILE Chile is a wonderland of natural beauty nestled on a thin stretch of land between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes.

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COVER STORY

COLOMBIAN FLOWER Cover by Toni Smailagic Fashion Director Carlton Jones Fashion Editor Rashida Meggett Makeup & Hair by Melanie Harris using MAC Dress by Francesca Miranda Jewelry by 7 Charming Sisters

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M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

WEAR WHAT WHERE

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There is nothing better then traveling the world and bringing back a style memento, knowing you are supporting local designers and artisans. As you prepare for your honeymoon, or destination wedding, “What to pack? What to buy?” and “Where to go? ” are certainly going to be some of the questions on your mind.

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THE LATIN BRIDE: CULTURAL, TRADITIONAL OR AMERICAN WEDDING

by Debra Hare-Bey

Where to Begin: Cultural, Traditional and American References There are many beautiful, cultural aspects and meaningful traditions that can easily be incorporated into the wedding. Here are just a few to choose from: Spain, Latin American Countries and the Philippines: Las arras (The thirteen Gold Coin Ceremony).

Thirteen gold coins (arras) are given to the bride by the bridegroom.

This is the groom symbolically showing good faith to adhere to his responsibility as a provider WBM 6

pledging his ability to support and care for his bride. Acceptance by the bride means taking that trust and confidence unconditionally with total dedication and prudence.

Guatemala and Mexico: Guatemala couples bind themselves together during the ceremony with a silver rope. Mexican couples perform a similar ritual, where a rosary or white rope is wound around their shoulders in a figure eight to symbolize their union. While the couple is bound together, the priest may recite the following: "Let the union of binding together this rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary be an inspiration to you both. The holiness necessary to preserve your new family can only be obtained by mutual sacrifice and love."

American: A popular custom during a traditional ceremony is “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. ” Traditionally, you want to have one from each category for good luck. Generally, the bride will carry one item representing all four request.

Bridal Dress and Customs Spanish: An old traditional wedding custom is for the bride to wear a black wedding gown, which for a Catholic bride meant she was committed to her marriage till death do us part.

Mantilla (a large lace veil worn over the head and shoulders) is traditionally worn for weddings or special occasions. Very commonly

worn among women of the Roman Catholic faith to church.

Orange blossoms can be seen in the bouquet, decorations and bride’s hair. Orange blossoms symbolize happiness and fulfilment. During the ceremony, the bride has someone holds her bouquet as she carries a rosary and a bible.

American: traditionally wear white or white-like wedding gowns. A white-face veil is worn with the dress to symbolize virginity. A variety of different flowers can be seen in the hair; bouquet and decorations are a symbol of adornment.

Wedding Rings Chile and Argentina: Engaged couples wear rings on their right hand until they are married and switch to the left hand after the wedding. Argentinian couples also exchange rings when they get engaged.

Spanish and Latin America: Brides and grooms wear the wedding bands on their right hand.

It’s your wedding. Remember, take your time and really think about how you want the wedding to look and feel. Don’t think about what’s happening around you; think about what’s important and what really matters to you and your groom.

Images Courtesy of Toni Smailagic

Planning your own wedding would suggest you know exactly what you want. Contrary to popular belief, there are so many decisions to be made that you may find yourself overwhelmed. Cultural, traditional or American wedding? STOP! Take your time and really think about how you would like your wedding to look and feel, in spite of the nudging feeling to choose this or that, the very strong suggestions to wear great grandma’s gown and even the behind-your-back plans to design your wedding. Think about what is important and what really matters to you and your groom. Once that decision is made, then and only then should you approach the families and see what they would like to have included in the wedding ceremony. Here’s a consideration: why choose?! Why not incorporate elements of each for an overall feel of authenticity and a meaningful wedding?

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PUBLISHER NOTE

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hile we have dedicated the current issue of WBM purely to the Latin culture and its rich territories, its wealth far exceeds what one will consider to be mere financial wealth. The wealth we’re talking about is found in the culture, color, food, music, the arts and natural beauty for Costa Rica’s people, wildlife and its environment.

One of WBM's favorite haute spots has always been and will always be Colombia (Cartagena).

But now we’ve added to the list Havana, Cuba; Dominican Republic; Chile; Argentina and Bolivia. We have literally traveled the world to seek some of the world’s most enchanting Latin American, Central American and South American hidden gems. We simply did not want to keep reporting on the same information you, our valuable readers, already know. We wanted to do our homework and research to bring to you the most exotic locations our planet has to offer.

Some will label many of these territories as third-world because they lack modern technologies or access to what we have become accustomed to in the modern world. Can you imagine living without some of modern luxuries?

Somehow many of the people we’ve met do. And it’s the natural beauty of these countries that has a sort of power over you once you land.

PURA VIDA in Costa Rica

A sort of peaceful spirit takes over one’s mind and soul and causes you to become instantly engulfed in its paradisiac environment, leaving behind any thoughts of city life and the rushed lifestyle we have become so accustomed to.

My other editors chose some of the most exotic islands to visit and share with you, but Costa Rica came to me like a gift I did not know I wanted or needed. Costa Rica captured my soul with its simple life and green pastures. Located geographically in Central America, but listed as a Latin American country, I knew I had to write about it in this issue.

While driving to the countryside and observing its landscape, we were given brief explanations by our driver, explaining how the island’s eco-friendly lifestyle is natural. Here, man and beast live harmoniously together. Even the resort where we stayed at, The Westin Playa Conchal, has wildlife that is protected. On any given day you might have to share the road with a pack of monkeys and its family that share the property. They may stop to engage with you in conversation as they observed you, which is quite fun. I had the luxury of having a very special visit by what seemed to be a raccoon visit my suite, but thankfully the family just waited outside.

Another great aspect of this trip was the property I stayed on. A plus

Myrdith

The literal translation of “pura vida” from Spanish to English is "pure life." This beloved expression was coined by the people of Costa Rica and is used nationwide.

Myrdith Leon-McCormack

completely. There was a pristine golf course, tennis court, and olympicsize swimming pool where you can swim to the bar. By night you have clubs, live music and sports bars. I think it is safe to say one week isn't going to be enough for you to do everything the resort has to offer you.

I love to think about how me, a city girl, could find solace in the beautiful jungle regions of Costa Rica, and actually enjoy it. Its relaxing atmosphere is responsible for letting my guard down and building my courage so that I felt confident to actually zip line through the jungles of Costa Rica. To my surprise, it was quite exhilarating and yet relaxing. I have a new-found respect for nature and its wildlife.

The property gave me all the full modern amenities that made it completely unnecessary for me to leave its grounds with its four pools, on a beach front property, enough restaurants that would satisfy any foodies’ appetite, yet I still wanted to venture out to meet the locals. And I’m so glad I did. The experience was magnificent.

As if that was not enough, the four-hour semi-private boating

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experience was absolutely the medicine the doctor ordered for stressful city people. The water, and the rocking motion of the sea, served as the night cap I needed to prepare me for a great night’s sleep. Between the wonderful staff of the Lazy Lizard, and the booking company Swiss Travel, there is nothing left for you to do but sit back and enjoy the ride. Activities range from scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, sightseeing, zip lining, or

tour of the region. No matter what activity you choose, the staff is ready to assist.

So for all you adventure-seeking couples, Costa Rica is the perfect destination for you and your beloved that combines nature, adventure, and culture all in one. It is an absolutely sexy country, filled with natural beauty and plenty to do.

Or do absolutely nothing at all and live the “pura vida.”

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Toni Smailagic

Gwen Wunderlich

Remi James

PHOTOGRAPHER

Bosnian born, Southern raised, Toni is a natural light photographer based in NYC. His views on people and cultures have been distinctly shaped by his travels. Travelling has always been a priority and before his 26th birthday Toni had visited more than 26 countries, 3 continents and lived in 6 countries.

Being a master with natural light Toni is able to transition between travel journalism to music portraiture with ease. Clients range from Valentino to Patricia Field, and Bullet to Elle.

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Remi has many years of experience working for an awardwinning Creative, Digital and marketing agency, which has gained her a vast amount of knowledge and expertise within the digital and marketing world. From her first trip to Los Angeles as a teenager, began her love for travelling and she has since travelled to countless countries around the world. Due to Remi’s passion for travel she has become the first point of call from her friends and some of her clients when they need advice on where they should go on holiday.

Peter D Brown PHOTOGRAPHER

New York based men’s & women’s fashion and beauty photographer. He has a fine art and photography background with a BFA from Syracuse University and Central Saint Martins (CSM) UK. Peter has been both a freelance and agency art director, creative director and editorial fashion director. His love of beauty has encompassed the roles of beauty/image consultant and illustrator for such clients as CHANEL, COVERGIRL, LANCOME, L’OREAL, MAYBELLINE, OSCAR DE LA RENTA, to name a few. He shoots both advertising and editorial assignments for clients worldwide.

CONTRIBUTORS

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Working with some of the most recognizable fashion, beauty, luxury, lifestyle brands and celebrities in the world, Gwen has her polished finger on the pulse of the next big trend. Ever the entrepreneur, Gwen began her big business path with the smallest business imaginable, the iconic neighborhood lemonade CONTRIBUTING FASHION EDITOR stand. Gwen spent two years as a Stacie Houlker is a freelance Senior Account Director at Dan Klores fashion stylist based in New York Communication before bursting out and is known for her elegant of the corporate box to build three and sophisticated style. Her successful companies of her own. work spans commercials, print As CEO and founder of Wunderlich advertising, celebrity styling and Kaplan Communications, Gwen is an fashion editorials. Highly skilled at expert at crafting and delivering the pairing clothing and accessories messages of her brands to the media, in fresh and unexpected ways, investors, and consumers alike. She Stacie also brings to every job works tirelessly to secure the top print an aptitude for organization, outlets as well as high profile digital forward thinking and resultsmagazines, blogs, and national TV. driven commercial art. Stacie has the uncanny ability to make her clients and colleagues feel comfortable and confident in the chosen wardrobe. The result is passionate, insightful work that captures attention, exudes emotion and ultimately tells a compelling style story.

Stacie Houlker

Nora Walsh

TRAVEL EDITOR

Passionate about Latin America, Nora left New York City after nearly a decade to relocate to Mendoza, Argentina, “The Land of Sunshine and Good Wine.” She is an award-winning journalist, copywriter and blogger with an expertise in travel, destination marketing and luxury hospitality. Nora is a perennial traveler, having visited over 35 countries around the world. She has written for national newspapers, magazines and online publications focusing on experiential travel, destination guides, luxury hotels, spas, dining and design. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, WSJ. Magazine, AFAR, Travel + Leisure, Robb Report, Forbes.com, among others.

She is a Forbes Lifestyle Contributor and AFAR's Mendoza Local Expert. She has also worked as Travel + Leisure's Latin America correspondent and a Yahoo Travel Explorer.

Memsor Kamarake

CONTRIBUTING FASHION EDITOR

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Fashion is an art form. Fashion symbolizes self-expression. Wardrobe Stylist Memsor Kamarake is fashion.

An industry veteran, Memsor has carved out a career spanning over two decades of stellar work, working with a diverse range of celebrities including Beyoncé, Serena Williams, TI, Anthony Mackie, Anderson Cooper and Wendy Williams. He is one of the most sought after stylists and creative directors in the world, renowned for his unapologetic approach, keen eye and exquisite sense of style. In an unforgiving industry where one is only as good as their reputation, Memsor continues to be an innovative force to be reckoned with.

Stephanie Flor

TRAVEL AND BEAUTY EDITOR A leading makeup artist who works regularly with industry leaders ranging from music artists to celebrity personalities.

Her clients include music artists Mariah Carey, rapper Eve, Sting, comedian Kathy Griffi, politician Mexican President Felipe Calderon, and the Israel President Shimon Peres.

Stephanie Flor is the founder of Around the World Beauty, a beauty blog about rituals and traditions still practiced in different cultures by women all over the world. Stephanie is also the creator and writer behind aroundtheworldbeauty.com.

Annalisa Aceleo

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Annalisa Arcoleo is a filmmaker and journalist at heart.

She started her journalism career working for Utility Magazine, writing about movies and some of the most important Italian events taking place in Italy. Graduating at ACT Cinecitta’ Studios in Rome, Annalisa working on movie sets with Italian television companies. Taking part in two series at “5 Stelle TV” as an Assistant Producer.

Annalisa joined one of the most prestigious Italian television networks, La Rai, conducting interviews and creating news reports. Her work has been in “La Voce” Magazine and many others. Now in New York Annalisa continues pursuing her filmmaking career.

Publisher & Editorial Director Myrdith Leon-McCormack Editor-At-Large Marsha Reeves Jews Creative Director Dave Wise Copy Editor Blondine Leon-Broers Belle Du Chene Photo/Bookings Editor Murat Ozdemir Associate Producer Ashley Gregory Features Editor Sandra Hill Beauty Editors Austen Parker Melanie Harris Debra Hare-Bey Grooming Editor Adrian Fanus Guest Fashion & Accessories Editor Rashida Meggett Celebrity & Fashion Director Carlton Jones Lifestyle & Travel Director Victor Amos

Lifestyle & Travel Editors Martina Glover (Italy) Michelle Lowe (England) Morena Russo (Italy) Aprelle Duany (Kenya) Health & Wellness Editor Raymond Dente Laci Chisholm Food & Entertainment Editor Chef Rodney LoveJones Details & Planning Senior Editor Muriel Saldalamacchia Contributing Editors Remi James Gwen Cover (Europe) Corporate Office Editorial Assistant - Lisa Banks Legal Department Jennifer Jacques (General Counsel) Marketing & Sponsorship Avant Garde Management Group Human Resources Aicha Randolph Director Of Operations Lianne Clark Williams

Any unauthorized duplication, download or reprint of images or content from this website for promotional or commercial use is strictly prohibited without written permission from World Bride Magazine, LLC. Violators will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Trademark pending.

Michelle Lowe

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Michelle Lowe is an Event Planner, Author and a woman of the world.

Michelle is the owner of an event consultancy, Yolo Bespoke in London.

She has been an Event Planner in Investment Banking for almost 20 years. She is was recently published in the Anthology, Chocolates & Diamonds for the Woman’s Soul. Michelle has also launched a relationship blog The Joy Spot.

As an avid traveller, some of her favourite places have been Iceland, Ghana, Colombia and Bali. She is passionate about salsa dancing and sculpture. She loves make-up along with hair and fashion. Her first love is the theatre, Broadway or the West End in London

If you would like to contribute to WorldBrideMagazine please send all inquiries to contribute@worldbridemagazine.com

World Bride Magazine, LLC. Copyright 2015 by World Bride Magazine.

All rights reserved. World Bride Magazine is published 4 times per year.

Reproduction without permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publisher and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication subject to World Bride Magazine to edit.

Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, photographs, and drawings.

To order a subscription please go to subscription@worldbridemagazine.com.

For customer service please contact info@worldbridemagazine.com.

To distribute World Bride Magazine please contact info@worldbridemagazine. com.

World Bride Magazine is published by World Bride Magazine, LLC. (Founder, Myrdith Leon-McCormack).

World Bride Magazine Corporate office : NMBC- 1633 Broadway, 30th Floor New York, NY 10018 Please call us toll free at 855- WBM- LUXE (926-5893) or e-mail us.

General Information: info@worldbridemagazine.com Magazine printed by Approach Print Limited (www.approach-ps.com)

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JOSÉ MARÍA PEIRÓ

CHARO RUIZ

ELENA RUBIO

FROM THE RUNWAY

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FOUR TIPS FOR FIRSTTIME HOME BUYERS

Over the past several years first-time home buyers may have shied away from entering the housing market due to stagnant wages and debt, but times have changed. According to TD Bank's First-Time Home Buyer Pulse, one in five consumers are actively looking to buy their first home, and 46% of Millennials will be looking in the next one to two years.

by TDBank

If you’re a first-time home buyer, the mere thought of securing a mortgage may be overwhelming.

For most people, a home is the largest purchase they'll make, and very few can take on this purchase without a loan. Below are some helpful tips and best practices for first time home buyers: Save for the Down Payment Most mortgage lenders require a cash down payment of five percent, ten percent or twenty percent of the sale price. Buyers today may find it difficult to save for a large down payment, especially young adults saddled with substantial student loan debt. Traditionally, buyers who were unable to put twenty percent down had to pay an additional $100 - $200 per month to their mortgage lender for Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). The great news is, today many lenders are offering home affordability and down payment assistance programs.

TD Bank offers the Right Step mortgage, which allows borrowers to put as little as three percent down without the added cost of PMI. Factor in Home Improvement Costs and Monthly Household Expenses With today's low inventory of affordable homes for first-time buyers, many buyers will find themselves settling on a home that WBM 14

requires renovations or upgrades.

These costs should be factored in at the start of the financing process so buyers are comfortable with their down payment and monthly payment and will have money available to make improvements.

For buyers who have not lived on their own or for those who previously rented, the added costs of running a household can be a shock. Monthly costs for utilities, homeowner's association fees, cable and internet, can add up quickly. Factoring these expenses in at the beginning of the mortgage financing process can help borrowers better assess their overall budget and a realistic monthly mortgage payment.

Shop Around for a Mortgage We know that the best mortgage experience for buyers occurs when they have open and ongoing communication with their lender.

Finding a lender and discussing financial needs and budget should be the very first step a buyer takes in the home buying process – even before finding a Realtor. The FirstTime Home Buyer Pulse revealed that saving for a down payment is a barrier to homeownership for many first-time buyers. That's why it's important to find a lender that helps buyers understand what they can afford and share what financing

options are available. Today, mortgages are not one size fits all – to find the option that best fits their needs buyers should discuss their financial situation with a lender they trust.

Get Educated Perhaps the single most important aspect of purchasing a home is to fully understand the mortgage and the overall home financing process.

Take advantage of educational courses offered by local financial institutions and government programs. In fact, TD Bank offers a First Time Home Buyer Seminar series that addresses all aspects of a home loan – starting with helping buyers decide if they're truly ready to own a home. Following that, the seminars share information on the criteria lenders use to evaluate a borrower, the documentation buyers will need to provide, what each portion of a mortgage payment goes towards, and the mortgage team who processes and approves the loan. These seminars are useful tools and provide valuable background for borrowers who are daunted or overwhelmed by the process.

While buying a home may feel overwhelming for first-time home buyers, finding a lender you can trust will guide you in the right direction and help you prepare for the mortgage process.

DISCOVER YOUR FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATIONS BEFORE YOU'VE EVEN PACKED A BAG!

Use Code SOCIAL for $3 off your ticket to the show! Follow @NYTTravelShow

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REAL WORLD BRIDES

ROBLES & SHIELDS Naira Nobles & Leighton Sheilds

Of the Latin American republics, Bolivia is the most isolated and still considered a third world country, making it is unrecognized as being an "ideal" place for a destination wedding. But WBM hopes to change this perception. Naira Robles, Business Development Manager, for Moet Hennessy USA went back to her roots and wedded in Cochabamba, Bolivia, where she was born. She married her long time love Leighton Shields. They met back in 2004, and he asked for her hand in marriage in December 2015. They originally wanted to elope in Italy, but later decided to have a traditional ceremony in her hometown of Cochabamba.

T

he beautiful couple wedded on Saturday, September 17, 2016. The traditional ceremony took place at the Catholic Church Iglesia de Tiquipaya, where I was fortunate to witness their beautiful ceremony, full of tradition and love. One particularly memorable tradition was presenting 12 gold coins brought by the bride's parents to be blessed by the priest and given to the bride and groom as a sign of prosperity and good fortune as they enter their union.

Another tradition was the wrapping of a gold chain; the parents wrapped a gold chain around the couple as a symbol of longevity as

the couple untied it.

After the ceremony, the newlyweds exited the church in style in a Model T Ford soft top convertible to head to their reception. The wedding celebration was held at a private mansion in a desolate area in the mountains of Cochabamba, also known as the "city of eternal spring."

The venue was breathtaking—filled with flowers and an amazing landscape. As the guest entered the mansion they were greeted with a Bolivian-style sangria that consisted of singani and a strawberry puree.

During the cocktail hour, waiters served traditional Bolivian hors

d'oeuvres; one that stood out was the Sopa de Mani also known as peanut soup, a popular lunch dish typically served with french fries and garnish and is the most important meal of the day in the Bolivian culture; in fact, schools and employers are closed from 12pm to 2pm when everyone comes together.

Following the cocktail hour, the guests were seated in a U-shape seating at tables surrounding the dance floor. The tables were adorned with the most elegant pastel floral center pieces. Dinner was served, Bolivian style with picante de pollo (spicy chicken), chuño (variation of potato), vegetables, steak and a potato cake of sorts. Picante de pollo is a popular traditional dish. Chuño is a freeze dried potato and is one of 4,000 different variations of potatoes that exist in Bolivia.

After dinner, the festivities continued with the customary throwing of the bouquet, and the removal of the bride’s garter belt. The bride was then surprised with a performance

by Tinku dancers, traditional Andean dancers, who performed their native dance and music for the bride's viewing pleasure. Their wedding cake was gorgeous and adorned

with cut pastel flowers and served to the delight of the guests. The night ended with laughter, fun and dancing.

The Wardrobe The bride and groom were both stunning. The bride wore a convertible sweetheart neckline tube dress with floral embroidery and a detachable train. The train was connected at the multifunctional pearl embellished waist belt that helped cinch the waist. The bride was able to remove the exaggerated train at the reception for a new WBM 16

look, allowing her to move more freely. The now fitted dress was the ideal look for her reception, showing off her beautiful frame

while showcasing elegance. The bride wore a beautiful 84-inch long custom Bolivian lace veil that draped longer than her dress’s train. She held true to tradition with "Something Old (her diamond earrings she received from her husband for Christmas, years prior), Something New (her gorgeous gown and veil), Something Borrowed (her mother's sapphire necklace that she wore on her big day), Something Blue (her wedding shoes, royal blue Manolo Blahnik).

Everything came together so perfectly for the bride's magical day.

The groom kept it classic in an Ermenegildo Zegna black tuxedo, with a Thomas Pink tuxedo white shirt accented with black buttons and a bow tie with Jimmy Choo patent shoes. The perfect complement for his lovely bride.

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REAL WORLD BRIDES

Where did you get married?

We got married at Villa Grabau, in Lucca, Tuscany, Italy. Mario spent much of his childhood in Lucca so there was a very personal connection for him. The energy the day after the “main” celebration was particularly special - everyone got to relax between olive trees in the garden of the family home, under the magnificent Tuscan sun.

CASANOVA meets VERCIANI Leonie Casanova & Mario Verciani

W

e met one sizzling summer afternoon at a restaurant in New York watching the Brazil vs. France final of the 1998 football World Cup. Mario insists he thought I was Brazilian.

That "kicked-off" our first conversation and the colorful (and sometimes bumpy) 17-year lovedance that ultimately led to our vocal “I do’s."

Photography by Daniele Vertelli

What was the most important thing about your wedding?

What was the inspiration behind your wedding?

Leonie wore a Romona Keveza dress with a vintage copper belt that belonged to Mario’s grandmother, then mother, and now, his bride.

Mario wore a custom Frank Debourge suit.

Mario is Italian, I am half Zambian, half Italian. The wedding location and venue effortlessly provided a stunning natural backdrop for our 3-day “TuscAfrican” celebration. I envisioned an elegant, particular but uncomplicated setting that maximized the gorgeous gardens and the majestic lemon-tree conservatory.

I also wanted to weave some Southern African elements through the entire weekend, from the “Wild at Heart” welcome cocktails for which guests wore African-inspired attire, to the beaded animal place-card holders made for us in Johannesburg.

We both have very international backgrounds and we had friends and family coming from all over the globe to celebrate with us - from Lusaka, Mumbai, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, London, Copenhagen, New York and Nairobi. It was really important to us to make our weekend celebration intimate, fun, vibrant and an authentic representation of who we are. I wanted to remember (and enjoy) it. Many had warned me about feeling so overwhelmed that the day just “flies by” - so I made it a point to keep checking in with myself and with Mario…how I was feeling, what it felt like to be surrounded by people that meant the world to us and that had travelled miles to witness our union. I have never felt so loved and so “full.” AND, I wanted to dance! And dance, we did. My feet are yet to forgive me.

LOVE MEANS?

"

A deep and reassuring 'knowing' that we are 'home' with each other, especially when we drive each other crazy! Maintaining a balance, harmony, attraction and respect.

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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT

50945

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www.sherrihill.com

51198

THE ULTIMATE BRIDESMAID

51035

SPRING 2017

51097

50883

Sherri Hill

50797

Sherri Hill's devotion to design is evident in her selection of beautiful fabrics, combined with innovative combinations of cuts to accentuate the best features of each and every woman.

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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT

Alfred Angelo

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snow white

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DESIGNER TAKEOVER

C

arolina Estefan is a Colombian-born fashion designer known for playing on color and texture. Her collections consist of designs with mixed fabrics and printed illustrations, an artistic creation that defines her brand’s aesthetic. Her multicultural upbringing and having lived in countries such as Ecuador, Brazil, the US and France has had considerable influence on Carolina’s creativity, drawing inspiration from a multitude of cultural experiences. She thrives on crafting designs that make her customers feel good, creating versatile evening wear and one-of-a-kind bridal gowns that will make any woman feel self-confident.

CAROLINAESTEFAN www.carolinaestefan.com

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DESIGNER TAKEOVER

etty Tinoco is a well-known designer born and raised in Cartagena, Colombia. As the owner of the 10-yearold historical designer shop located in the seducing streets of Old Cartagena, Ketty’s shop houses collections fashioned with noble fabrics and pastel embroideries in the richest white hues. Her collections have a generous amount of white and pastel dresses and separates, ideal for any special occasion, from wedding to red carpet.

Ketty believes white is a grateful color that is ideal for the perfect WBM 26

warm climate in the Caribbean. She has earned a remarkable reputation and continues to expand her brand to various markets worldwide. Bridal is one of her major markets; a critical factor in that is when Cartagena notably became one of the primary wedding destinations in South America.

Ketty found a love for creating designs with individual identities specific to each of her very special brides-to-be.

Her inspiration drawn from the tropical Caribbean continues to

transcend through each of her designs, with her Latina aesthetic capturing audiences across the globe.

As if she doesn’t do enough, Ketty designs for grooms too!

KETTYTINOCO www.kettytinoco.com

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FLORAL Artistry to be transformed to fit the decor concept, which is a challenge but creates a unique wedding experience for our clients and their guests. Being unique is the most important thing when we design a wedding. It’s not the 1980s any more that people would pick a wedding from a photo album. With sites such as Etsy and Pinterest Brides and Grooms have several tools to show their event designer things they like. All of this helps to create the perfect wedding.

Who selects the flowers you or the bride- do you make suggestions?

VANVLIET&TRAP

R

www.vanvlietandtrap.com

emco van Vliet is a third generation Dutch Master Florist and now creative director of Van Vliet & Trap Event Design. Remco worked for his father's event company in the Netherlands before moving to America, designing many events throughout Europe for clients including the Dutch Royal Family.

Van Vliet & Trap creates the stunning colossal urn arrangements and the bouquets in the Great Hall at The Metropolitan Museum of Art which Remco personally designs every week.

What inspires a design, the couple or the venue?

Bride and groom’s personal style and taste dictate a lot of the décor direction for us. We like to get a feel for the couple, then translate that into a decor concept that works in the venue. Often times the venue has WBM 28

We like to get the bride’s input as far as flowers that are special or significant to her in some way. Occasionally a bride doesn’t have much knowledge or direction regarding flowers and leaves it up to us - either way we are always presenting floral options that we feel strongly about and that we know are in season. It’s very very important to us that we are realistic with our brides about what’s available. Sometimes flowers are available somewhere in the world, but not in season. If budget is no issue we can usually get the flowers even out of season, if budget is an issue I would recommend asking your event designer or florist what is in season and fits within your decor concept. We always depend on what nature brings us. I remember working in my father’s flower shop in Holland when I was very young and even though my father was able to get spring flowers in fall, he refused to sell them in his store. He was a purist and only wanted to use flowers in season so you could look forward to the following season’s flowers. Times have changed!

What is the advantages of buying in season flowers?

The biggest advantage is cost - flowers that are in season and local require less shipping and leave a smaller carbon footprint. Flowers that are in season can usually be acquired in large numbers and good quality.

It’s like a peach in December - you can get it but may cost twice as much and not be as sweet. The overall look will also be more lush for your budget

How far in advance should your services be booked?

What are costs involved?

We prefer at least 6 months depending on the size of the event but have pulled together large events in a very short time frame - sometimes within a week or so.

The more time you give your event designer or florist and the earlier you settle on a final decor concept, the less change you have to incur rush fees and changes that design elements run out of stock. Even if you give a small deposit to have the event booked so your event designer or florist can start putting orders and putting items on hold. Nobody wants stress and drama right before their wedding, we definitely don’t!

There are so many costs that clients don’t realize.

There are shipping costs from the wholesalers or growers. The flowers then have to be cleaned and conditioned so they are in perfect bloom for the event.

There are production costs to assemble and design the arrangements. Logistical costs sometimes are the most challenging - getting a truck load of flowers from point A to point B in a timely fashion in NYC or any other major city during rush hour is very stressful and sometimes requires more vehicles and staff. It also depends on the loading situation at the venue, some can be quite intricate which requires more staffing.

What are 5 tips you can give to a couple in booking a florist or using your services?

1. Have an idea of what you like in terms of color and style - your initial thoughts are usually the best.

2. Find a floral event planner that can work with your sense of style - classic, contemporary, romantic, architectural.

3. Let the designer interpret your vision - we’re professionals - best to let us bring the concept into reality - don’t micro manage, we often create one sample setting the bride thinks she wants and one we think she wants, most of the time they have chosen our interpretation over their own.

4. Be flexible for what is in season, Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate- availability is sometimes up to her, this will leave room for the best product and the best cost.

5. Have a realistic budget - it’s good for both of us.

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LANZA.COM

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BEAUTY

AM Routine (left), PM Routine (center), Bi-Weekly Routine (right)

Bi-Weekly Routine: Dual Enzyme Polish & Clarifying Detox Mask

Applying Colleen Rothschild’s Bi-Weekly Clarifying Detox Mask

COLLEEN ROTHSCHILD: A GROWING AUTHORITY IN LUXURY SKINCARE

by Austen Parker

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inding a skincare line that actually works on all skin tones and skin types can be a challenge. Oftentimes, it is difficult to know if a series of products are really working until weeks (if not months) down the road after committing to a beauty routine.

Colleen Rothschild has a number of products that have been creating quite the buzz recently within the world of luxury skincare – least to say, I was eager to try them out and get a thorough assessment of their capabilities and the results they produce. Since certain skincare

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lines work better for some people than others, I wanted to perform an experiment where I would apply Colleen’s various skincare routines to 5 people of varying age, gender, skin type, and skin tone over the course of 5 days. My skincare experimentation was comprised of using Colleen’s AM and PM routine daily on everyone along with her recommended bi-weekly routine once on day 2 and day 4 of the trial.

In addition to this 5-day experiment, I have personally been using the products daily for over 2 months now.

With all of my opinions being unbiased and my own, I can safely say this skincare line is a breakthrough. This is the first line I have had the pleasure of reviewing this year that has noticeably improved the appearance and health of my skin – ask any of my 5 trial subjects and they will say the same! For this reason, I am excited to share with my readers Colleen Rothschild’s astounding skincare routines so you too can start seeing your skin restore, revitalize, and transform into the beautiful skin you deserve.

AM Routine – Balancing Gel Cleanser, Vitamin C Treatment Complex, & Sheer Renewal Cream

PM Routine – Radiant Cleansing Balm, Extreme Recovery Cream, & Face Oil N°9

Start by lathering a dime-sized amount of the gentle foam cleanser onto the face and neck. Rinse and pat dry. This preps the skin for the day and provides a clean surface for the other products to penetrate. Follow up by applying a pea size amount of the Vitamin C Treatment Complex to the face and neck – allowing it to absorb into the skin over the course of a few minutes. This improves skin clarity, overall radiance, and reduces the appearance of hyper-pigmentation.

Lastly, apply the oil-free Sheer Renewal Cream to the face and neck. This weightless moisturizer hydrates the skin and also acts as a great non-comedogenic primer to be used before makeup application.

Before going to bed, begin by warming a small dollop of the Radiant Cleansing Balm in dry hands until the balm reaches an oil-like consistency. Apply to a dry face. Next, run the included muslin cleansing cloth under hot water and place over your face until the cloth completely cools. Wipe away balm and splash the face with cool water.

This cult favorite rapidly dissolves makeup, clears congested pores, and leaves the skin feeling silky soft.

Follow up by applying a dime-sized amount of the Extreme Recovery Cream to the face and neck for unbeatable hydration. Allow a few minutes for the moisturizer to absorb. As a last step, slowly massage 1-2 pumps of Face Oil N°9 to the face and neck. This serum is scientifically crafted with 9 transformative oils designed to nourish and rejuvenate dehydrated skin.

To be used twice per week in the evening after cleansing and before moisturizing, apply either of the two products one evening and the next one 48 hours later to avoid complications triggered by sensitive skin. The Dual Enzyme Polish helps rid the skin of toxins and improves skin breathability by facilitating cellular turnover via fruit enzymes and Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) making for a deep exfoliation. Apply an even layer to a damp face and leave on for 5-10 minutes. Gently polish face by moving closed fingers in a circular motion all over the face for a few minutes before washing off with water. The Clarifying Detox Mask uses activated charcoal, kaolin clay, and micronized silver to remove trapped dirt and debris from pores by bringing it to the surface for effortless removal. To use, evenly apply a thin layer to the face and neck and allow to dry for 10 minutes before rinsing with water. For both of these products, remember to follow up with Colleen’s PM Moisturizers.

Great skin starts with the conscious choice to take the necessary steps required to see the change happen.

With only 3 weeks in, I can’t wait to see what this line will do for my face after 1-2 months. Least to say, I will certainly be an advocate for Colleen Rothschild skincare moving forward.

Start your journey to healthier and revitalized skin today by visiting Colleen’s website.

Colleen Rothschild www.colleenrothschild.com

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RELAX and RENEW

by Tee Hundley

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It’s time to get out those sexy sandals, peep toe flats, and gladiator spectaculars! If you’re like many people you slacked a bit on your pedi upkeep last season, but don’t worry we’ve got you covered.

Your first pedicure should definitely include a great scrub, a paraffin dip, and a luxurious massage. A spa pedicure is very luxurious and a great opportunity to renew the duo that carry your load every day. A good spa pedicure will take care of everything below the knee.

After receiving a precision nail treatment, you should receive a perfect foot scrub with a disposable foot file and callous remover (if necessary). I like Callous Be Natural

Callous Eliminator. After that, you can indulge in a skin polishing scrub for the lower leg and feet to bring a natural glow. One of my favorites is SpaRitual Instincual Sand and Body Scrub. Once your nails and skin are all prepared, relax with a 20 minute foot rub.

A great foot rub will have your whole body feeling anew and just when you thought you were ready to go here comes the “pies de resistance” a paraffin dip. Your feet will be dipped in warm paraffin wax to allow your skin to soften and seal in moisture. Once removed, you’re ready for a precision polish. You’ll love your new feet! Just remember to keep them refreshed with a biweekly pedicure.

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BEAUTY

SUNSHINE COLOR TRENDS

by Tee Hundley

So you're heading to the sunshine and we’re ready to show what color trends to take with you!

We’ve found some lacquers and gels that will keep you colored, happy and HOT!

Essie Viva Antigua is a traveler’s

companion. Imagine the sun glistening off the beautiful tropical sea from a distance. See that bit of sparkle in the water? That is Viva Antiqua”!

Orly - Remember that classic bubble gum pink you loved as a young girl? Then when you matured it became that “Pink Cadillac”? Well now it’s “Put The Top Down.”

OPI - When you think of summer

you think TAN! No one wants to look orangey so for “I’m Getting A Tangerine” (Nail Lacquer or Gel Polish).

Gelish - What goes great with Rose’? Rose-Y Cheeks by Gelish.

CND - It can be considered risky,

botanical, sassy, and feminine all in one. It’s anything except boring. It’s “Honey Darlin”!

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AMMON CARVER Photography by Charlie Wan Makeup by Tanya DeJesus @ BREAK Management Wardrobe Styling by Audra MarieÂ

Model: NicoleZ@Fenton Models

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Model: NicoleG@Fenton Models Hair by: Gina Watkins

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Model: Chelsey@APM Models Hair by: Tovah Avigail

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Model: Jennifer Daniels Hair By: Mirza Batanovic

Model: Alysia@Fenton Models Hair by: Manny Rolon

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arm climates and summertime are all about natural, yet glistening sun-kissed skin. Tinted moisturizers, illuminating powders, baked bronzers, cream-based eyes shadows, and glossy lipsticks have become necessities that direct current summer makeup trends. In search of finding the best products on the market worldwide, I came across the German luxury cosmetic line, Horst Kirchberger. To say their products embody long-lasting wear and superior quality would be an understatement. I used a number of Horst Kirchberger cosmetics on a recent 15-hour outdoor fashion campaign – the makeup held from 8am until 11pm!

warmer CLIMES and SUMMERTIME

by Austen Parker

The Horst Kirchberger line should be explored by not only soon-to-be summer brides, but also by everyday women looking for long-lasting quality makeup. Throughout their entire line, three products in particular stood out as must-haves.

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hether you are picking up these beautifully packaged products for your own personal summer makeup collection or getting these as a gift for a special someone, you will not be disappointed.

Horst Kirchberger cosmetics can be purchased directly via the company’s website at www.kirchberger-beauty.de WBM 44

Luminizing Powder This velvety soft highlighter has a silky texture that applies effortlessly and ensures a radiant complexion. To apply, sweep the pressed powder along the top of the cheekbones. For a more luminous all-over look, lightly apply to the entire face after applying tinted moisturizer, foundation, and/or concealer.

This is a perfect product for summer bridal makeup. For best results, apply using a Horst Kirchberger powder brush.

Bronzing Powder Diamond Bronzing the skin is only one value this product serves. It also performs as a luxurious hydrating powder formulated with hyaluronic acid – a powerful cosmeceutical ingredient that protects the skin from environmental factors and prevents early signs of aging.

Apply to the entire face and neck using the Horst Kirchberger powder brush over base makeup or directly onto the skin for a super natural sun-kissed look. As an added benefit, Bronzing Powder Diamond is also free of parabens.

Vibrant Shine Lipstick This lipstick embodies summer. It comes available in eight semi-transparent and fresh summer tones – leaving the lips with a more sheer, natural, and fresh lip color. Vibrant Shine Lipstick is specially formulated with SPF 15 for summer wear – protecting against premature signs of aging and damage caused by the sun’s UVA/ UVB rays. For a longer-lasting lip, apply Horst Kirchberger lip liner to the entire lip prior to applying Vibrant Shine Lipstick.

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BEAUTY

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COLOMBIAN FLOWER

Dress by Francesca Miranda

Photography by Toni Smailagic Fashion Director Carlton Jones Fashion Editor Rashida Meggett Makeup & Hair by Melanie Harris using MAC and Bumble & Bumble

Dress by Francesca Miranda All jewelry by 7 Charming Sisters

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Dress by Francesca Miranda

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Dress by Francesca Miranda

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Dress by Versace

Dress by Versace

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Dress by Versace

Dress by Versace

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Dress by Gult Gaia

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Dress by Gult Gaia

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Dress by Francesca Miranda

Dress is Rosablanca by Jenny Amador

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Dress by Versace

Dress by Versace

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10 Must have's in

YOUR BEAUTY BAG

by Austen Parker

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O2M Breathable Nail Enamel

In addition to having an endless color charged array of hues to choose from, this nail polish is created using a highly advanced polymer that allows oxygen and water to pass through – sustaining the health and natural beauty of the nail. O2M Breathable Nail Enamel dries quickly and applies more seamlessly when used after O2M Breathable Nail Base. For a longer wear of the nail, apply O2M Breathable Top Coat as a last step. www.inglotcosmetics.com

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Jane Iredale Hydration Spray

Refreshing and invigorating, this natural and organic hydration spray currently comes in 4 different vegan and cruelty-free options that soothe, calm, and improve the overall health of your skin. Each of the 4 pleasantly aromatic hydration sprays are uniquely catered to your individual needs. This hydration spray is great to have on hand to use throughout the day to maintain a natural and healthy glow for all skin types – including dry and oily skin. https://janeiredale.com

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BEAUTY

Horst Kirchberger Bronzing Powder Diamond

Bronzing the skin is only one value this product serves. It also performs as a luxurious hydrating powder formulated with hyaluronic acid – a powerful cosmeceutical ingredient that protects the skin from environmental factors and prevents early signs of aging. Apply to the entire face and neck using the Horst Kirchberger powder brush over base makeup or directly onto the skin for a super natural sun-kissed look. As an added benefit, Bronzing Powder Diamond is also free of parabens. www.kirchberger-beauty.de

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HydroPeptide Eye Authority

An award-winning eye serum with 13 multi-performance peptides that works after first application – rapidly reducing the appearance of dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines. This antioxidantrich 0.5 oz. compact tube is easily transportable and recommended to be used AM and PM for optimal results - use as needed throughout the day.

Currently, HydroPeptide is the leader in luxury-based peptide skincare. hydropeptide.com

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Veridatta Vital Sun True Glow Tinted Sunscreen

This organic cruelty-free sunscreen protects your skin from harsh UVA and UVB rays that cause premature aging while also holding color-correcting technology that allows your skin to glow in its natural skin tone. In contrast to most sunscreens, Vital Sun True Glow blends in and does not leave a pasty white. Not only is Veridatta safe for the body, but also safe for the planet. www.veridatta.com

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Colleen Rothschild Mandelic Acid Radiance Serum

Rich in peptides and antioxidants, this compact 1 oz. serum can be used daily to reduce the signs of aging, improve skin texture, treat acne, and even out skin tone by promoting cellular turnover via the product’s active ingredient – an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) derived from almonds. This serum glides onto the face seamlessly and has a pleasant botanical fragrance. www.colleenrothschild.com

Amarte Wonder Cream

A miracle moisturizer with ingredients that actively help to prevent collagen breakdown, diminish wrinkles, and form an anti-aging shield against environmental damage – including nanocapsulated 1% retinol, BioPeptide SC, and Schizophyllan (a highly purified extract of cultivated mushroom). This bioorganic product is to be used on the face and neck throughout the day as needed. www.amarteskincare.com

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Inglot Freedom System Palette

This is a beautifully packaged new beauty essential. For an every day beauty look, one could have 3 high quality eyeshadows, 1 brow color, 2 cream concealers, 3 lipstick shades, and 1 lip gloss – all encompassed in one uniform “do-it-all” compact palette. With less mess and less space in contrast to carrying numerous separate products, there is nothing not to love about the Freedom System. www.inglotcosmetics.com

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OCC Lip Tar & Lip Pencil

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Smashbox Always Sharp Clear Lip Liner

OCC is most recognized for their infamous Lip Tar – a highly pigmented liquid lipstick available in over 40 different matte and metallic colors. To create the perfect long-lasting lip, apply an OCC lip pencil in your chosen color before applying Lip Tar with a quality lip brush. occmakeup.com

Not only does this product self-sharpen every time the cap is twisted off, but also essentially allows the wearer to keep and/or change their lip color without having to change the lip pencil color.

Smashbox Always Sharp Clear Lip Liner allows whatever color of lipstick you wear to maintain its vibrancy and pop in addition to inhibiting the lipstick from bleeding – keeping the color right where you want it. www.smashbox.com

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ACCESSORIES

BEACH COMBER

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he Zuri Handbag, is a stunning accompaniment to have on your arm, it's name quite literally means "beautiful" in Swahili. The Zuri handbag is the ďŹ rst piece from Songa to utilize maize leaves, along with sisal plant and comes with a classic inner brown fabric lining.

"Songa" is deďŹ ned as "the path forward" in Swahili, Songa is synonymous with the journey toward economic empowerment for women in developing countries, so when you adorn yourself with this exquisite piece, remember, you are helping many women provide for their families and looking great doing so.

$69.00 Available at www.songadesigns.com

$89.00 Available at www.songadesigns.com

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he Jacqueline Handbag, handwoven with banana leaves and adorned with re-purposed cow horn, is named after one of the women artisans employed by Songa Designs. Jacqueline presented her original design to Songa as a possible product to add to the collection. Songa purchased the design rights, and now the bag serves as an inspiration and encouragement to other women to create their own designs.

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HANGIN' POOLSIDE 67 WBM

WEAR WHAT WHERE

by Memsor Kamarake

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hen World Bride Magazine asked me to come on board as their Guest Travel and Style Editor for their Latin Issue, I literally jumped at the opportunity.

As I toured the beautiful city of Cartegena, I was not only inspired by the local culture, but by the way the local women effortlessly put together their stylish looks. That inspired me to do further research and I was blown away by the immense depth of Colombian design talent.

There is nothing better than traveling the world and bringing back a style memento, knowing you are supporting local designers and artisans. As you prepare for your honeymoon, or destination wedding, “What to pack?

What to buy?” and “Where to go? ” are certainly going to be some of the questions on your mind.

Welcome to your personal style guide.

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STYLE TIPS: Wear something comfortable but chic (like this one-piece romper) to ensure you can navigate through the fortress’s steep staircases and narrow tunnels in style! Also, purchase a bag from one of the numerous local artisans to stash an ice-cold water bottle (trust me you’ll need it!), a change of footwear and souvenirs purchased from the pre-approved vendors lining the fort walls.

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CASTILLO DE SAN FELIPE

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EL SANTISIMO

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STYLE TIPS: Now would be the perfect time to pull out the pareo to shield you from the air conditioning, a change of sandals, and stylish accessories (stashed in the bag we suggested) to transform your outfit from hiking to haute!

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Pareo by Antilope Sandals by Azulu “Alana” earrings and “Talia” by Claudia Trejos

FASHION

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HOTEL SAN PEDRO DE MAJAGUAISLAS DEL ROSARIO

CAFE DEL MAR

Romper by Zeta Hiking boots by Danner Bag by Wayuu Tribe Water bottle by Cafe Express

This quaint restaurant serves as a welcome pit stop to refuel posthike with a wide range of delicious cuisine and refreshing beverages. And somewhere to escape the rising outdoor temperatures!

FASHION

WEAR WHAT WHERE

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Located just a 45-minute boat ride away, this secluded tree lined, beach front island property is the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of the Cartagena mainland. Feel your wedding stress melt away as you drift to this luxurious eco-friendly resort which is fully equipped with staff to cater to your every need.

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STYLE TIPS: You’ve obviously got the basics covered. Swimsuit? Check.

Sunscreen? Check. Sunnies? Check.

Up your style quotient by packing or purchasing the most exquisite cover ups which can move effortlessly from drinks ocean side to even more drinks at the dinner table!

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Beach dress by Pink Filosofy Purse by Mola Sasa Panama Hat by Flor Amazona

Popular hangout for both tourists and locals to catch wonderful scenic views of the ocean while enjoying killer cocktails.

Slip into something off the shoulder and head there early to catch the glorious sunsets as tables tend to fill up rather quickly.

STYLE TIPS: As Cafe Del Mar is literally built on top of the balustrades of the walled city of Cartagena, it is always breezy, so pack a chic pony tail holder for when you tire of having your hair whip back and forth! Also, keep in mind the steep staircases are not stiletto friendly, so a wedge will help you feel grounded while keeping you sexy.

1. “La Santa Maria” dress by Johanna Ortiz 2.

Sunglasses by Linda Farrow 3.

Ponytail holder by Mrs. President & Co. 4.

Wedge espadrilles by Aquazzura

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WEAR WHAT WHERE

A Unesco World Heritage site, this historical fortress is a must-see destination when visiting Cartagena which boasts commanding views of the walled city, its bay and beyond. Scheduled morning tours are best to beat the punishing rays of the mid-day sun.

WEAR WHAT WHERE

FASHION

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EL TOTUMO A very popular attraction located in the nearby Santa Catalina municipality, El Totumo is a volcanic mound filled with a warm mud alleged to have healing powers.

Healing or not, it’s very relaxing floating in the dense mud, but it sure gets really messy, really quickly!

A personal massage by one of the attendants is optional, but a must after your immersion is having them bathe you clean in the nearby lagoon.

STYLE TIPS: Slip a brightly colored swimsuit under flowy caftan/romper for the trip—the brighter the better as it’s fun to rediscover it as you wash the caked-up mud off your body!

The 49 ft mound is accessible by wooden staircase leading to the crater, so keep footwear flat and comfortable.

Top outfit off with a stylish waterproof turban to keep your lustrous locks from getting muddy!

And be sure to bring an aftershower change of wardrobe—a crisp all white look will help you stand out in style on the ride home!

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Swimwear by Agua Bendita Turban by Mandy Tangerine Panama hat by Valdez Bag by Michu All white outfit by Pink Filosofy

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ALLIE MILLER

PHOTOGRAPHER SPOTLIGHT

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et us introduce the North Carolina wedding photographer Allie Miller. Allie travels the world with her clients capturing stunning moments with the newly weds. Allie, having been a bride herself, knows that your wedding is one of the most important days ever, and believes it is essential that you receive only the fullest attention that is personal and by a professional. Because you deserve nothing less!

Be sure to check out more of her work on her website, we are sure you will be enthralled. www.alliemillerweddings.com

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hen you have a fairytale wedding planned it would be a shame to have those moments lost with just average wedding photography, or worse. Michelle Szpak goes to great lengths to get to know you and your partner, even the location at which you are getting married to ensure she can deliver your images that match your own personal fairytale. While Michelle is based in the UK she is happy to travel with you, or before you as depends on the location and your arrangements, anywhere in the world you decide your wedding will happen. Be sure to check out her site, her photography and don't be shy, you'll love her and she'll love you.

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www.szpakstudio.co.uk/Weddingphotography

MICHELLE SZPAK

PHOTOGRAPHER SPOTLIGHT

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CELEBRITY PROFILE

Delilah "Adorn" Pendant $ 135.00

Blake True 18k White Gold Plated Pendant $ 150.00

by Annalisa Aceleo

Sofía was often asked to color her hair to appear “more Colombian.”

SOFÍA VERGARA

Sofía Vergara, after a troubled love life, met the actor Joe Manganiello. The couple got married in Palm Beach, and Sofía had a stunning wedding dress designed by Zuhair Murad, who always knows how to design the absolutely perfect dress for her.

We have watched Sofía change her looks, get sexier Born in Barranquilla, and more beautiful Colombia, Sofía year after year, Vergara started her while keeping her career as a model Image courtesy of Helga Esteb / Shutterstock, Inc. natural beauty, never when she was 17 years being “too much.” old. Tall, beautiful and She is the kind of woman who takes her time every blonde, Sofía was first noticed while walking on the day, starting with her shower, scrubbing and bubbling, beach and instantly offered a modeling and television which is something every woman should do—take her contract. time. And she is definitely a powerful and successful woman with a great career, a wife, and a mother. She Sofía started working in television, and by 2002 saw her has launched her personal scent (Sofia) and she knows in the film “Big Trouble.” Sofía has always been able to what she wants from life; we can see that in her eyes. enhance her appearance by choosing a light golden A natural beauty, strong personality and all of these makeup, perfectly compatible with her natural dark attributes make Sofía Vergara an inspiration. blonde hair.

Sofía always says that she prefers to work-out rather than renounce any foods she enjoys. I perfectly agree with her lifestyle. Food makes us happy, so why should we spend our life without?

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By just looking at her, it’s easy to understand her real beauty secret:

LOVE.

The Esme Ring $ 135.00

Ashlyn Necklace $ 89.00

HER//POUR ELLE Vanessa Studs $ 121.00 All accessories from cateandchloe.com

Cher Earrings $ 125.00

ACCESSORIES

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reathtaking curves, amber complexion, perfect skin, Latin women are among the most envied in the world for their natural beauty. Let’s be honest, many of us would like a curvaceous body, natural amber skin, shiny hair and, a perfect smile, we want to look “caliente.” Latinas definitely have great inspirational examples, especially when we look at celebrities.

One of the sexiest and most talented Latin celebrities is Sofía Vergara.

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ROCK

PUNTA CANA Photography by Peter D Brown Fashion Styling by Stacie Houlker Makeup & Hair by Austen Parker of THE PARKER TWINS MAKEUP using Colleen Rothschild Skincare and Jane Iredale Cosmetics

Photographed on location at The Hard Rock Punta Cana Hotel & Casino, Dominican Republic

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BODY SCULPTURE Asymmetrical White Swimsuit in Stingray Fabric by Belusso, Sandals by Giuseppe Zanotti, Nourishing Body Lotion by Colleen Rothschild.

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PALM READINGS Palm print Bustier & Skirt by Gult Gaia, Lucite Cuff Bracelet by Kenneth Cole, White Slim-Fit Jeans by Hugo Boss, Teal leather belt by Versace.

TROPICAL ELEGANCE Wrap Gown with Italian Lace by Francesca Miranda

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BRAZILIANÂ PLUNGE Bikini by Salinas, Straw Sub Hat by Calvin Klein, Swim briefs by Ca-Rio-Ca.

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CARRIBEAN SEDUCTION Caribbean Blue Bikini by Victoria Secret, Sheer Bomber Jacket by Jean Paul Gaultier, Ultimate Lip Balm by Colleen Rothschild.

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ISLAND ALLURE Turquoise Knit Cover-up by Save the Queen.

Makeup from Jane Iredale Cosmetics Eyes: Smooth Affair® in Naked, Canvas and Iced Brown, Cheeks: PurePressed® in Barely Rose.

Lips: PureMoist® in Madison

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ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN Bandage Swimsuit by OYE.

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JEWELLED POOL Blue Swimsuit with Swarovski Crystals by A.Z Araujo, Nourishing Body Lotion by Colleen Rothschild.

GOLDEN BEACH BEAUTY Grey Bikini under Ruffled Lace by A.Z Araujo.

Cover-up by A.Z Araujo.

Glowing bronze skin & dramatic smoky beach eyes using Golden Shimmer Face & Body Lotion with Daytime Eye Shadow Kit from Jane Iredale Cosmetics.

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BALI BED HIDEAWAY Lace Dress by Peachoo + Krejberg, White Blazer with Pocket Square by Vince Camuto, Dress Shirt by Vince Camuto, Dress Slacks by Calvin Klein.

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ragrances complement and shape one’s individual style.

They have a remarkable influence over the way you are perceived and remembered by others. For these very reasons, the men’s fragrance industry has grown significantly over the past decade as more and more men have come to realize the powerful effects a designer fragrance can have on enhancing one’s own personal identity.

leading FRAGRANCES FOR MEN

by Austen Parker

As a preliminary step, selecting the right fragrance is essential in elevating your individual style.

Men’s fragrances are meant to positively highlight one’s personal scent – something all of us have that is uniquely a part of who we are.

Certain fragrances, consequently, may work strikingly well for one person and be entirely unflattering on someone else. In other words, buying the right cologne may be a matter of trial and error; hence the importance of testing fragrances prior to buying them to see how well they mix with your own natural scent. However, there are a number of trending fragrances worth looking into that have had overwhelming success throughout the past spring and current summer season. Out of all of the leading fragrances I have had the pleasure to review over the past season, three in particular stood out to me as “2016 must-haves.”

For those fragrance-loving men out there as well as those looking to begin this journey, consider checking out these sophisticated fragrances.

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POUR HOMME Tom Ford – Neroli Portofino Inspired by the Italian Rivera, Tom Ford Neroli Portofino has continued to be one of the greatest hits throughout the past spring and current summer season. It has been described as vibrant, sparkling, and transformative – embodying prominent notes of Tunisian neroli, Italian bergamot, Sicilian lemon, orange flower, lavender, rosemary, and amber. After setting, this fragrance remains present, yet sophisticatedly understated.

Tom Ford Neroli Portofino can be purchased directly online at: www. sephora.com - 1 oz, $145

John Varvatos – Artisan Blu This beautifully packaged fragrance was crafted to embody the ambiance of basking beside crystal clear waters under the heat of the Mediterranean sun. Artisan Blu is characterized as being revitalizing, elegant, and serene – formulated with notes of bergamot, French lavender, basil, bitter orange, Egyptian geranium, orange blossom, French clary sage, and cedarwood. www.sephora.com - 4.2 oz, $86

Hermès – Terre D’Hermès Created for Hermès by a master perfumer, Terre D’Hermès is an elemental, earthy, and refreshingly organic fragrance with a woody, botanical, and mineral body. Notes of grapefruit synthesize with the blend of botanical, wood, and mineral-based notes – creating a distinctive aroma that leaves a lasting impression. www.sephora. com - 3.3 oz, $118

christinejbrandt.com/sterling

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ACCESSORIES

HIM//POUR HOMME

Breitling Chronomat 44 Blacksteel Special Edition A black steel case, yellow dial, tried and trusted sturdiness and a high-performance Breitling Manufacture movement: the Chronomat 44 Blacksteel Special Edition by Breitling is the epitome of boldness.

£7,380.00

Breitling Exospace B55 In creating its first connected chronograph, Breitling has applied a new philosophy placing the smartphone in the service of the watch so as to enhance its functionality and user-friendliness.

With the Exospace B55, the brand reaffirms its position in the vanguard of electronics. The instrument of the future, designed for aviation professionals.

The chronograph remains the absolute master and the connection is primarily designed to improve its functionality. Two-way communication enables the two instruments to form a perfectly complementary pair in which each is used for what it does best. Since the main assets of a smartphone are its screen and its ergonomic interface, owners of the Exospace B55 can use their phone to perform certain adjustments (timesetting, timezones, alarms, display and operating parameters, night mode).

The result is a considerable gain in comfort and efficiency.

£6,970.00

www.goldsmiths.co.uk/Breitling-ExoSpace-B55-Mens-Watch

breitling.com/en/models/chronomat/chronomat-44blacksteel

MOVA® Globe - Blue with Relief Map The award-winning MOVA® Globe is the flagship product; the original realization of our inventor’s dream to create an anchor piece that inspires wonder and relaxation. Expertly crafted to simulate perpetual motion, the luxurious MOVA® Globe comes to life in ambient light, providing therapeutic calm with its silent rotation and adding interest to any space with its dynamic balance of classic form and contemporary style.

Handmade in a variety of captivating collections, the MOVA Globe reinvents the very idea of a globe, offering a compelling magical experience never before imagined in a decor piece.

Contemplate the full beauty and possibilities of our world with the MOVA Globe. www.movainternational.com

MONTBLANC Meisterstück Platinum-Coated LeGrand Fountain Pen

The Meisterstück LeGrand in deep black precious resin with platinum-coated details, surmounted by the white star emblem and finished with a handcrafted gold nib, evolves into a distinctive design icon.

£515.00

Lochcarron luxury cashmere scarf: Douglas Navy Tartan

A perfectly soft design statement that will ensure your groom has an accent to his outfit.

£104.95

misternewman.com

montblanc.com

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Breitling Exospace B55

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I

n case you have been tucked away somewhere in the last decade, beards are in and grooms everywhere are embracing it.

the BEARDED

Groom

by Adrian Fanus

The FULL BEARD WBM 98

I was recently asked by a new bride wife, why does her fiancé love his new beard and wear it with such patriotism that would make George Washington green with envy. She can’t comprehend the obsession with his new found scruff (beard).

His biweekly visit to his barber has become non existent and his relationship to a razor, scissor and clippers are null and void.

Getting married unveils about a new found sense of responsibility and protection for his bride. Primitive men grew their beards to not only provide protection from the elements ( sun, wind and cold ) but it conveyed an intimidation factors against prey. Mountain lions and pre historic animals were the constant threat of their time but today a new prey has surfaced.

It is almost impossible for a woman to walk down the street and not be overwhelmed with a sea of cat calling from testosterone filled men displaying childish forms of bravado in an attempt to get their attention.

A beard is one of the most physical forms of masculinity and it demands attention and respect from other men. Studies have suggested that a man with a beard is more attractive, assertive and found to be more confident. This is something that every groom will not be opposed to.

Now that you have cultivated the ultimate form of manhood, knowing how to care for it is equally important.

POUR HOMME Here are a few styles below that will help decide what beard style is right for you.

• • • • •

The five o’clock shadow.

The Faded beard The Low beard The Light medium beard The Full Beard

The FIVE o’clock SHADOW How to care for beard 1 - Wash The beard needs to be regarded with the same attention as the head.

Sweat and dirt often accumulates in the beard and if not cleansed properly, it can become a haven for bacterial and possible infection.

This can be solved by cleansing the beard three times a week with

a beard wash. We recommend Beardspoke Beard Wash. This is formulated with activated charcoal to help gives a through cleanse and not strip beard of all essentials oils.

2 - Condition After the beard is cleansed it needs to be conditioned to replenish it of essentials minerals. This helps prevent breakage, promote growth and also nourishes the skin to prevent bacterial and unfavorable skin conditions. We recommend Beardspoke beard oil and balm. The beard oil for a light hold and shine in summer months and the beard balm for maximum hold and shine in colder months.

3 - Style After the beard is conditioned it needs to be styled. This can be achieved using a comb or brush depending on the length of the beard.

SALT 'n PEPPER

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"

WRITTEN WORD

"

Beauty and ugliness are an illusion.

Everyone ends up seeing our inside

F

"

—Frida Kahlo

rida Kahlo was not only an iconic artist, she was also a bold beauty and an avant-garde fashionista whose timeless sense of style continues to inspire and influence the worlds of fashion, media, and art today. Fashion is an optical effect that Frida knew how to employ with shrewd intelligence and artistic intention.

Frida knew that life is theater, and fashion was her costume.

Frida understood the importance of image and attitude, no matter who you are. The canvas was Frida’s mirror, and she was the painter, the model, and the painting— author, subject, medium, and object. Frida was her own best work of art.

A good Cuban cigar closes the door to the vulgarities of the world

A

"

— Franz Liszt

fter two years in Cuba researching the production of the cigar, Charles Del Todesco has penned a remarkable testament to this legendary status symbol, reviewing the hallowed history of cigars in Cuba, and describing in detail the processes involved in creating them. Original photography by Patrick Jantet reveals the beauty of the land and the hands and faces of the craftsmen and women behind each Havana cigar.

Also included is an invaluable catalogue raisonné of Havana cigars.

Both books are available for purchase at ASSOULINE boutiques worldwide and through www.assouline.com

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BRIDAL REGISTRY the KITCHEN EDITION

F

inding the perfect gift for the bride-to-be can be a daunting task.

There is no shortage of ads for ridiculous tools that are ugly and serve only one purpose in the kitchen. Enough is enough! The new tools on the market are all vying for your attention, and we’ve sorted through the fluff and have found the best of the best.

Cooking rotisserie chicken at home has never been easier.

Ronco Showtime Rotisserie Oven

$180 USD

www.ronco.com This ceramic dutch oven is perfect for slowcooking stews and stocks.

This copper kettle is an absolute showpiece - oh, and it can also boil water!

Simplex Copper Teakettle

$295 USD

www.simplex-kettles.com

Emile Henry Flame Round Dutch Oven

$240 USD

Not only a beautiful chopping block, but also a beautiful serving board.

JK Adams Maple End Grain Butcher Block

$140 USD

www.jkadams.com

www.emilehenryusa.com

Ad Space

The finest rendition of kitchen essentials available.

Shun Classic 10-Piece Chef’s Block Set

$1289 USD

www.shun.kaiusaltd.com

This ergonomic and lighteningfast salad spinner will ensure your leafy greens are clean and crisp.

Trudeau Stress Less 3-In-1 Salad Spinner

$50 USD

www.trudeaucorp.com

This instant-read precision thermometer is the industry leader.

ThermoWorks Thermapen Mk4

$99 USD

www.thermoworks.com

This ingenious modular gadget triples as a lid holder, trivet, and display stand. Talk about space saving design!

Trivae

$80 USD

www.trivae.com

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NOVOTEL

by Myrdith Leon-McCormack

W

edding season is in full effect; destination nuptials account for a large portion of the wedding market and couples continue to seek cool destinations to not only satisfy their wedding dreams but that of their guests.

What is the novelty of having a destination wedding? Quite simply put in some cases destination weddings often turn out to be a great way to combine the honeymoon for the couple and serves as a vacation for their guests.

While some couples may stress over the big day details, others choose to keep things more enjoyable and look for locations that will not only be a great backdrop for their wedding photos, but will also be a spectacular playground for their guests. What better place than New York City.

We were fortunate to stumble upon a gem that was underneath our nose, between the theater district and a few feet away from Times Square. When we say a few feet, we mean all you have to do is look out your window and the magic is literally at your fingertips.

Novotel, Hotels & Resorts, New York Time Square, is one location we would love to recommend to couples that have the fantasy of tying the knot in New York City.

No better place than this gem of a location. This sophisticated, modernly decorated hotel hosts 480 rooms, offering you a choice of either king or double beds and WBM 104

SENSE & SENSIBILITY

is very chic for all the fashionistas that can't get enough of the “City that never sleeps” with its sexy ambience.

Looking for historical places to take photos, well you are a taxi ride from Central Park, and all the haute restaurants with quite a few of the world’s greatest chefs.

Now, don't take our word for it ... take a trip and see for yourself.

A Few Facts about Novotel: The hotel was built in 1984, and completed an $85 million dollar renovation in 2013, which transformed the Novotel to a 4-star property, including their 480 guest rooms, lobby, Supernova restaurant & bar and 5700 sq. foot terrace.

"Regarding weddings, we do not have a wedding planner on premises. Some of the couples utilize a wedding planner, or I work with them directly to coordinate arrangements," says Jackie, the wedding planners. “We do between 5 to 10 weddings per year, that range from very small/casual reception to up to 100 guests, more formal, including ceremony.

The capacity of the venue can hold maximum of 500 guests including terrace. The average cost is about $140++ per person for food/beverage, but this can fluctuate depending on specific arrangements. And, yes, we work with vendors for florals, dance floor, linens, and music/entertainment. “

the

COLOMBIAN WAY

by Toni Smailagic

T

he fact that I have chills even revisiting Colombia mentally, is hopefully an indicator about my incredible experience. Boarding an airplane in Miami and with less than a 2-hour commute, I was in line getting my first passport stamp from South America. I really had no idea what to expect, and really tried to disregard what the media feeds the American people about the “violent state” of Colombia (Pablo Escobar, anyone?) and be open to the experiences the people of Cartagena had to share. By the end of this trip, I couldn’t even imagine someone feeling unsafe traveling throughout Cartagena.

There is nothing like New York City in the summer; cocktails and the nightlife are definitely a divine combination for love and play. Imagine you are just walking distance from the city’s most amazing bridal salons, shops, boutiques, and the heart of the fashion district. Or better yet 5th Avenue’s shops merely a few avenues away.

Photography by Toni Smailagic

Married at the

Cartagena is on the coast of Colombia and is the most visited tourist city in the country – and I completely understand why. The city is divided into a few main areas; City Center, Getsemani, and San Diego are the ones I had a chance to explore and the neighborhood of Getsemani peaked my interest, especially. Walking through alleyways covered in vivid shades of yellow, blue and red, while fruit and arepa vendors are seen on virtually every other corner, it’s hard not get lost in this visual orgasm. Getsemani being the “art center” of the city, has incredible murals and street art, and many of the artists can be found within close proximity to the pieces you’re discovering. All the fruit is amazing, but if you’re not as adventurous in getting a fruit mix, I suggest you don’t skip out on the sweetest pineapple I’ve tasted to date.

and get closer to the walled colonial city (split between the Center and San Diego) you’ll find yourself surrounded by flower-covered houses and a beautiful mixture of people walking through any and every vibrantly colored street. As the city is on the coast, there’s no way you can pass up eating fresh seafood, and the amazing array of restaurants within the city and on the actual wall surrounding the city.

I’m with you if you’re the type to try and avoid “touristy” venues, but I can’t emphasize enough about what an experience it is spending at least one evening on the wall getting a coconut drink at Café Del Mar. You’ll be surrounded by beautiful people, a sea breeze, all while overlooking the city – not to mention amazing drinks to prep you for whatever nightlife area you find yourself wandering into.

Whether you’re there for a solo vacation or a honeymoon, the thought of being bored shouldn’t cross your mind. Between the hospitality, the warm client, and the vibrancy of the city and its history, you may find yourself figuring out a way to extend your stay. Even if you crave privacy, you can take a boat out to one of the many secluded islands and play as a true escapist. I was truly taken aback by the beauty of the country and I honestly can’t wait to bring another friend (or partner) to share it with me next time!

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THE BEAUTY JOURNEY THROUGH CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA

by Stephanie FLOR

C

artegena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was one of South America's most famous port cities on Colombia’s coastline.

Today, visitors from all over the globe flock to see the town's brightly painted colonial walls and hear Afro-Caribbean salsa music blaring through the streets.

For Around the World Beauty, the ancient city became the latest destination along our journey in search of beauty. From learning to make traditional skin care treatments using ingredients native to the Caribbean coast, to submerging in detoxifying and rejuvenating mud baths made of clay from mountains in the surrounding area, our itinerary was jam-packed with traditional Colombian pampering sessions.

Although Colombia is known as the home to some of the most beautiful women in the world (Sofía Vergara and Shakira), need we say more? We discovered beauty is beyond skin deep. If you love beauty as much as we do, add Cartagena, Colombia to your bucket list and let's go #BeautyExploring!

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THE WALLS OF CARTAGENA

T

he heart of the city is located within a walled city, which centuries ago concealed the treasures of Spanish soldiers. The fortress was built to protect the riches from pirates and other invaders and became one of the most important ports to Spain. Today, you’ll find charming restaurants and shops within the walls of the city. The best way to explore Cartagena is by wandering the streets. You'll find beautiful balconies dripping with flowers and narrow alleys brimming with friendly faces and aromatic food.

We suggest you rent a bicycle and get lost while discovering new places to explore. Shop local designers, enjoy a horse tour, or satisfy your sweet tooth by choosing from dozens of flavors at one of the city's famous ice-cream shops.

WHERE TO STAY Hotel Don Pedro de Heredia What drew us to stay at Hotel Don Pedro de Heredia was its impeccable attention to detail and authentic Colombian decor.

Centrally located right in the historic center of Cartagena de Indias, the hotel has plenty of room to host anything from a large bridal party to a bachelorette party. Whatever you do, we recommend decompressing after the long months you've spent planning your wedding with girlfriends surrounded by flowers at this stunning oasis.

WHERE TO EAT La Cevicheria La Cevicheria is a seafood restaurant led by Chef Jorge Escandon who prides himself on the freshness of the food offered, and seducing plates inspired by the infinite range of color, taste, and sounds in the city of Cartagena. This gem has become a popular attraction for the best ceviche, a mixture of fresh seafood with lemon and Colombia's most popular dish, within the walls. It's even a favorite of travel pro Anthony Bourdain whose picture is prominently placed inside as a stamp of approval.

With its white and blue decor resembling the colors of the ocean, it's a must to stop by La Cevicheria and enjoy a meal during your visit. (Editor's Note: No reservations. La Cevicheria has a first come, first serve policy.)

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WHERE TO ESCAPE

L

ocated near Santa Marta, five hours away from the beautiful city of Cartagena, take Marsol transport service ($75,000 COP) that picks you up at the doorsteps of your hotel in Cartagena and drops you off on the Caribbean Coast of Playa Koralia's front door. You won’t want to miss any time or meal at this bohemian gem.

With 17 bungalows, and three healthy, and delicious meals a day here you have no worries, just relax, and be pampered. You can enjoy swimming, yoga classes, and even fire ceremonies that happen a few times a month.

WHERE TO RELAX Volcan del Totumo Volcan del Totumo is a healing mud-bath volcano where tourists and locals float in charcoal-gray mud filled with beauty benefits. The volcano was made of natural clay and is composed of 51 salts and minerals such as sulfur, iodine, potassium, calcium, iron, and magnesium. Locals swear by its magical exfoliation and medicinal properties, which attracts vans full of visitors, daily. Positioned 15 meters above sea level, the mud was formed by gases and is believed to relieve pains associated with arthritis and poor circulation.

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Climb down a wooden ladder and enter a bath at the bottom of the volcano to receive a mud massage by a local therapist (all male staff) for 4,000 pesos ($1). We went for it! It's recommended to stay in for at least 15 minutes and to rub the mud into the skin.

WHERE TO DETOX

W

hen we heard about aguas sagradas, Spanish for sacred waters, we had to add a visit to the beauty itinerary to take a swim in this mineral-infused pool used for purification rituals, and beauty bathing. Set up an excursion to explore more of these outside lands where untouched fountains of water and natural practices still exist. Exclusive for Playa Koralia.

The sacred pool is made of pure waters directly from the Sierra Nevada in a secret location closed to the public. The Sierra Nevada is a mountain chain known for its magical properties separating itself from the Andes and home to Colombia's five indigenous tribes. After climbing over huge rocks, and trekking

through this mountain area, we finally arrived at the sacred pool.

Our eyes were wide as we entered nature's heaven. This place was alive with color and life.

Known for their ocean-side spa services we booked their most popular experience called the Bliss Therapy Escape ($174,000COP ) that combines a mud treatment, sea salt therapy and a relaxing massage using all local ingredients.

The treatment lasts for 2.5 hours focusing on preparing the body for the full body massage to follow.

Our treatment began with white clay from the Sierra Nevada mixed with honey and water. Applied from head to toe, it’s done in the open air—you can also request for the treatment on the beach or next to the spa, which has beautiful nature views as well. Our favorite part was that all ingredients used were from the top of Sierra Nevada where many indigenous still reside and share their beauty secrets from the medicinal mountains.

want to extend your stay, be certain to visit some of Colombia's nearby cities like Medellin and Bogota known as the mecca of fashion and salsa for South America.

We did a meditation before entering the site's pristine waters used for common purifying rituals before marriage, to clear our minds of negative thoughts before bathing under the waterfalls for a hydrotherapeutic massage as the locals do.

Cartagena has become a popular destination in recent years with safety being its main priority. With direct flights from Florida and New York, it's become the newest luxury international destination that is an affordable weekend getaway. If you

Special Thank You to Playa Koralia. To find more about them please visit http://koralia.com

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WORLD DESTINATIONS

to ARGENTINA with LOVE

by Nora Walsh

Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa

A

rgentina has long been associated with romance. The sultry tango of Buenos Aires, the rugged beauty of Patagonia, and the art of making fine wine in Mendoza offer newlyweds a chance to explore a country that’s scenic, cosmopolitan and ablaze with passion.

The Vines Resort & Spa

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PATAGONIA: ARAKUR USHUAIA RESORT & SPA

MENDOZA: THE VINES RESORT & SPA

BUENOS AIRES: ALVEAR PALACE HOTEL

Couples can take their love to the end-of-the-world where the Andes meet the sea in Tierra del Fuego—the southernmost tip of Argentine Patagonia.

Mossy forests, pristine meadows and peat bogs make up the staggering beauty of this windswept landscape. Dramatic peaks, turquoise glaciers and shimmering lagoons are telling signs of the region’s proximity to Antarctica, making the province's capital city, Ushuaia, a popular port for travelers boarding expeditions to the icecovered continent.

As one of the world’s ten Great Wine Capitals, Mendoza is often referred to as the Napa Valley of South America. The region is the beating heart of Argentina’s wine industry boasting over a thousand wineries — from boutique to state-of-the-art — planted on its fertile soil. The Uco Valley, a viticultural paradise at the foot of the Andes, has developed into a premier winemaking region, attracting the world’s winemaking elite and globetrotting oenophiles to sip its celebrated Malbec wines.

Buenos Aires is an electrifying city that oozes European elegance and Latin American edge. Tree-lined boulevards are laced with classical architecture, theaters and book shops as well as world-class restaurants, trendy bars and designer boutiques.

Located within the Cerro Alarkén Nature Reserve, Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa is fringed by snowcapped peaks to the north and the Beagle Channel to the south. Large windows frame breathtaking views from every room, while craft leather furniture and polished timbers glow in the light of the fireplace.

The hotel features a spacious solarium, infinity edge indoor/ outdoor pool and two open-air hot tubs with city and sea views.

Couples can also unwind with relaxing treatments at the spa. Honeymooners have the opportunity to explore the great outdoors on guided excursions and return to the hotel’s lobby bar just in time to watch the sun set over the bay, followed by a candlelit dinner of locallysourced delights like lamb, king crab and sea bass at La Cravia restaurant.

The Vines Resort & Spa’s 22 villas are set amid sweeping vineyards in the Uco Valley, many featuring wood-burning fireplaces, plunge pools, hot tubs and private rooftop terraces. Unforgettable honeymoon adventures include horseback riding at sunrise to private dinners in the garden. The 1,000-square foot infinity pool and five-star spa offer postcard-perfect luxury, while Siete Fuegos serves an authentic asado (barbecue) from Argentina’s star chef Francis Mallmann. Wineloving newlyweds can tour the property’s Winemakers Village, a boutique collection of microwineries, harvest grapes from the vineyard and even create their own wine in a private blending session, bottling memories that will endure for years to come.

Sizzling tango shows and fervent soccer matches played in soldout stadiums are part of what make Argentina’s capital city so appealing.

An icon since 1932, the Alvear Palace hotel is truly fit for a queen. Set in the upscale neighborhood of Recoleta, the landmark hotel is a genuine symbol of Belle Époque grandeur. Gilded rooms and luxurious suites have housed monarchs from round the world, while the hotel’s classic lobby bar, afternoon tea solarium and champagne bar are gathering spots for Buenos Aires' high society. Honeymooners indulge in Hermés toiletries, a lavish spa and a team of butlers to assist any request. This fall, the hotel will debut 16 new rooftop suites, an indoor pool, a bar and an outdoor terrace, all overlooking panoramic views of Buenos Aires.

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WORLD DESTINATIONS

ENCHANTING CHILE

Image Credit: Santiago Hotels

Image Credit: Rio Serrano, Chile

Image Credit: Patricio Garrido

by Nora Walsh

C

J

ust as a wedding planner knows the best vendors, negotiates great rates, alleviates stress and saves a couple's time handling the legwork and logistical matters, so too does a full-service tour operator when it comes to planning a honeymoon. Boutique travel outfitter Upscape is the definitive choice for custom journeys in Chile.

Founded by New York native Brian Pearson, the company is located in Santiago and has been operating for over a decade. Pearson and his bilingual staff have longstanding relationships with the top airlines, boutique hotels, chefs, wineries, and a myriad of specialists who have exclusive access to authentic experiences that are far off-thebeaten path. Upscape manages WBM 112

every detail from start to finish and provides expert guidance on where to go and when, what to do, what to pack and how to personalize a trip to make it truly unforgettable.

CAPITAL CITY, SANTIAGO What was once a stopover city has since evolved into a sophisticated cosmopolitan destination with top-flight restaurants, a thriving arts and music scene, and a spate of new boutique hotels catering to Santiago’s upsurge of international travelers. Bound by the mighty Andes and the coastal cordillera, the city is dotted with tree-laden hills where it's not uncommon to find local couples enjoying the panoramic views. The home of Pablo Neruda, Santiago’s most

Image Credit: Michael Stolp-Smith

hile is a wonderland of natural beauty nestled on a thin stretch of land between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes Mountains in South America. From the Atacama Desert’s breathtaking lunar landscape to Patagonia’s soaring peaks and legendary glaciers—and the lakes, beaches, volcanoes, vineyards and cosmopolitan cities in between—Chile has it all. It’s also safe, affordable, bursting with culture, and offers the flexibility to combine peaceful relaxation with high-adrenaline adventures, making it an unparalleled honeymoon destination.

famous poet, has been transformed into a museum that is a great place to buy a book of his passionate poems. Strolling through the city’s neighborhoods, parks and plazas, it’s easy to feel Santiago's oldworld charm with its Neo-Baroque museums and mansions, and its contemporary spirit with modern skyscrapers, haute cuisine, sidewalk cafes and wine bars. There’s a lot to see and do, and since Santiago is a central transportation hub, most travelers pass through more than once providing additional time to explore the city.

SANTIAGO HOTELS

TORRES DEL PAINE

TIERRA PATAGONIA

Luxury boutique hotels are popping up all over Santiago. Many have planted roots in the city’s fashionable neighborhoods of Barrio Lastarria and Bellavista. Barrio Lastarria is a well-preserved cultural neighborhood with cobblestone streets, top museums and locallyloved “restobars”. Styled after a neoclassical residence, The Singular Santiago has a rooftop pool and terrace bar, and a unique menu of spa treatments. Nearby, Lastarria Boutique Hotel and Luciano K are two 1920s properties that have been meticulously restored by the same owners. Both have original architectural details, swimming pools and historic charm. The bohemian district of Bellavista is flush with funky places to eat and drink, live music and colorfully-painted townhouses.

Here, couples can stay at The Aubrey, an impressive Tudor Revival estate with honeymoon suites, a piano bar and a backyard oasis with a lap pool and city views.

Equally chic and intimate is the neighborhood’s iconic red mansion, Castillo Rojo, whose castle-inspired stonework, unexpected nooks and antique furniture ooze romance.

The towering granite pillars of Torres del Paine have been beckoning outdoor enthusiasts for decades.

While trekking is a huge draw for most travelers, Torres del Paine National Park and the surrounding steppe offer exciting excursions for every fitness level including boat rides to the glistening Grey Glacier, biking around turquoise lagoons, strolling through old-growth forests, horseback riding, kayaking and fly fishing. A declared UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the park is great for spotting wildlife including flocks of flamingoes, ostrich-like rhea, guanacos, foxes, huemul, pumas and the Andean Condor. Declared the Eighth Wonder of the World by popular vote, travelers to Torres del Paine must pack a sense of adventure as Mother Nature is fickle in this rugged corner of the world, but the region’s undeniable beauty far surpasses its unpredictable weather.

Long-necked rhea and grazing guanacos welcome guests to this striking low-slung retreat constructed almost entirely of native Lenga wood, allowing the hotel to seamlessly blend with its extraordinary natural surroundings.

Located on a bluff within Torres del Paine National Park, every room overlooks magnificent views of Lago Sarmiento and the looming monoliths of Paine Massif. Expert guides lead guests on scenic voyages to the park’s glaciers, ice floes and feathery forests and on exhilarating hikes including the world-famous trek to the base of Torres del Paine.

Tierra Patagonia subscribes to an adventure spa philosophy, where guests spend their days pursuing once-in-a-lifetime adventures and their evenings relaxing in Uma Spa’s glass-walled swimming pool equipped with jets and water cascades to massage aching muscles. Body treatments, a sauna, steam room and an outdoor hot tub are also available. Allinclusive packages are perfect for honeymoon travelers as they include a wide-range of guided activities, three gourmet meals per day, cocktails, Chile’s finest wines, and airport transfers. And with no televisions or WiFi in the rooms, there’s more time for romance.

Upon checkout, honeymooners have a tree planted in their honor, a symbol of their love to watch grow over time.

WBM FAST FACT Chile's weather seasons are opposite of the Northern Hemisphere's

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WORLD DESTINATIONS

SINGULAR PATAGONIA The Singular Patagonia experience begins with a funicular ride that takes guests down to the lobby.

Housed in a century-old restored refrigeration plant near the charming fishing town of Puerto Natales, the hotel is a family-owned National Monument steeped in history and character. Daily tours wind through The Singular's industrial-chic interiors passing old-fashioned machinery and faded photographs that provide a vivid depiction of the area’s sheep farming past. Built along the Last Hope Sound, The Singular’s two high-speed boats take guests on private expeditions to explore Patagonia’s scenic fjords, channels and islands. With over 20 curated excursions, honeymooners can visit nearby attractions like the prehistoric Mylodon Cave, horseback rides to local estancias, kayak in the bay or trek farther afield to Torres del Paine National Park. Staying put is also an attractive option with the hotel’s 3,000-sq.ft. eco-spa, whose floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the fast moving waters of the sound, or head to the gourmet restaurant to feast on Patagonian lamb, South American king crab and locally grown white strawberries.

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Image Credit: Sernatur Chile

THE LAKE DISTRICT: PUERTO VARAS TO PUCÓN Flying from southern Patagonia to northern Patagonia’s Lake District lands travelers in Puerto Montt, a 25-minute drive from Puerto Varas, one of Chile’s first Bavarian German settlements established in the mid1800s. Today, it is a thriving resort town overlooking Lago Llanquihue and the twin volcanoes: Osorno and Calbuco. Fairytale churches, gingerbread-style houses shingled with ancient cypress trees, dairy farms and locally brewed beer reveal the region’s alpine influence.

Often referred to as the Switzerland of South America, Chile’s Lake District offers a spectacular road trip through the area’s shimmering lakes, snowcapped volcanic peaks and dense forests. Driving from Puerto Varas to Pucón takes anywhere from four hours to a full day depending on traffic and pit-stops at scenic overlooks and quaint villages. Set on the southern shore of Lago Villarrica and surrounded by national parks, Pucón is a postcard-perfect playground for thrill-seekers and nature lovers offering a myriad of outdoor activities from trekking volcanoes and rafting to fly fishing and sailing.

Image Credit: James Florio

Image Credit: Nora Walsh

Image Credit: Nora Walsh

Image Credit: Nora Walsh

VIRA VIRA HACIENDA HOTEL

MILLAHUE VALLEY

VIÑA VIK

ATACAMA DESERT

Pucón may already be the adventure capital of Chile, but Vira Vira Hacienda Hotel is putting it on the luxury map. The all-inclusive, impeccably designed lodge is owned by a Swiss couple who offer warm hospitality at every turn.

Built from sustainably-sourced native wood on a grassy expanse overlooking the Liucura River, the hotel is a holistic retreat surrounded by 100 acres of pristine wilderness, protected parkland and imposing volcanoes. Vira Vira, which translates to “herb of life” in the indigenous Mapuche language, operates a small-scale farm and uses its own fruits, vegetables, honey, grains, eggs, yogurt, milk and artisanal cheeses in its harvest-to-table restaurant. Cooking classes are a popular activity, as are guided excursions to old-growth forests with 1,000-year-old monkey-puzzle trees, waterfalls and natural hot springs. Other favorites include treks to Villarrica Volcano’s smoking crater and hikes to breathtaking peaks at Huerquehue National Park that end with swims in a freshwater lagoon.

Chile is a wine lover’s dream. Its mosaic of climates and terroirs produce some of the highest quality red and white wines in the world. Cradled in the lush, sloping hillsides of Chile’s Central Valley—a two-hour drive south of Santiago—the Millahue Valley has become one of the country's hottest wine destinations thanks to Norwegian entrepreneur Alexander Vik. Millahue, translating to ‘place of gold' in the native Mapuche language, offers 11,000 fertile acres composed of 12 distinct terroirs and six micro-valleys. Vik purchased the land over a decade ago to pursue his dream of producing Bordeauxquality wine. Cultivating the land and constructing a high-tech winery soon followed, yielding his signature vintage: a complex blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carménère, Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

Visitors can enjoy winery tours and private tastings, as well as horseback rides and mountain-bike adventures through the valley’s vineyards, gorges, forests and lakes.

There’s nothing more fitting for a romantic getaway than spa and wine, even more so when combined in one sublime location. The 22room hotel at Viña Vik is the ultimate wine retreat, perched high above an emerald sea of vineyards with 360-degree views of rolling hills and valleys. Owners Alexander and Carrie Vik have blurred the lines between an art gallery and a luxury resort by inviting 35 artists to design site-specific artwork, leaving a surprise behind every door. Glass walls are topped with an undulating Ghery-inspired titanium roof that glints gold in the sunlight. The open-air dining room stocked with VIK wines sits above a cantilevered infinity pool overlooking the vineyard. A half day spent luxuriating in the wine spa is a true highlight. Couples are renewed with antioxidant-rich wine baths, grapeseed scrubs, warm mud wraps and rosehip oil massages.

The Atacama Desert is a surreal tapestry of magical landscapes.

Star-scattered skies glitter with constellations that can only be seen in this part of the world. Salt flats are sprinkled with pink flamingos grazing in vibrant lagoons. Fields of geysers spout steam into the early dawn. Rust-colored ravines are covered with towery cacti. Volcanohemmed horizons spontaneously billow with smoke. Hot springs gurgle. And candy-colored sunsets cast a rose glow across lunar-like valleys. San Pedro de Atacama acts as the region’s central hub. This lively bohemian village is home to a historic adobe church, an archaeology museum, craft shops and scores of restaurants and bars to reminisce the day’s adventures.

WBM FAST FACT Image Credit: Patricio Garrido

Image Credit: Tierra Hotels

LATAM Airlines and its affiliates offer non-stop flights to Santiago from Miami, New York and Los Angeles (seasonal).

There are also direct flights from London.

With connecting flights via Lima from Orlando, Washington, D.C. and Toronto.

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Image Credit: Alto Atacama Lodge

Image Credit: Tierra Hotels

ALTO ATACAMA

TIERRA ATACAMA

Blending into the jagged terracottahued ridge of the Salt Mountain Range, the Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa is a stunning oasis.

The sustainable property features a one-of-a-kind “Andescape,” complete with Inca baths, native flora, a mineral rock garden and a llama corral. Professional guides lead guests on half and full-day excursions from hiking through river canyons and soaking in thermal springs to mountain biking and 4x4 expeditions. By day, the resort offers six outdoor plunge pools for sunbathing and by night, guests can stargaze from the lodge’s private observatory platform. The Puri Spa’s treatment menu inspired by ancient rituals kindles romance with a candlelit couples massages under the stars, while Caur Restaurant hosts weekend asados where guests can experience an authentic Andean barbeque.

Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa is as visually striking as its surroundings.

The high-design hotel pairs Scandinavian-inspired furnishings with natural wood, stone and adobe elements. Every room has a private terrace, open-air shower, handwoven textiles and spectacular views of Lincancabur Volcano.

Experienced guides lead guests on a variety of expeditions to picnic at turquoise-tinged Altiplanic lagoons, sandboard dunes in Death Valley, explore ancient Petroglyphs or climb Toco Volcano for a bird's-eye-view of Bolivia. There’s also an impressive infinity pool with an adjacent spa featuring volcanic mud and desert salt therapies, a steam room and a Turkish bath. In the evening, honeymooners can linger around fire pits sipping Pisco Sours or take a private fireside soak in an outdoor bath filled with rose petals and aromatic oils with a side of sparkling Chilean wine to savor as Atacama’s famous night sky comes alive.

WBM FAST FACT Chile and New York have similar time zones, which means less jet lag and more time for adventures like hiking Torres del Paine National Park.

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Image Credit: Patricio Garrido

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at the

COPA (CO!) COPACABANA

COCHABAMBA BOLIVIA

by Remi James

W

hen I think of Rio de Janeiro, I want to sing like Barry Manilow and Samba the night away. It’s one of the most exhilarating cities that I have ever visited.

Now, I have to admit that for a long time I delayed going to Rio for such silly and superficial reasons. And I had convinced myself that I needed to drop three dress sizes before heading to the infamous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. After a few years of not having the willpower to lose even one pound — let alone a dress size — I decided to book my trip to Rio anyway.

I actually had to raid my piggy bank to stay at the legendary Copacabana Palace! However, as soon as I entered this dominant but very glamorous 1920s hotel, I knew I had made the perfect decision.

This is the hotel where royalty, the rich elite, and A-list celebrities stay.

With its superior beach location, exquisite Cipriani restaurant, and the pervasive historic ambiance it’s a fantastic spot to stay while in Copacabana.

Rio de Janeiro has many breathtaking attractions, but my personal favorite is Christ the Redeemer. This amazing 98 feet (30 metres) tall and 92 feet (28 metres)

wide handsome statue left me speechless, in absolute awe! It's no wonder it’s one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

by Rashida Meggett

A

fter traveling to Cochabamba, Boliva, there are a few notable facts that I would love to share with our readers. First and foremost, it is imperative that you get your visa that is required to enter the country, and in most circumstances you will need clearance for a yellow fever shot.

The flight is a bit extensive, an estimated 24 hours, as there are no direct flights. I flew with Avianca (on the new state-of-the-art 787 Dreamliner) from JFK to Bogota, Colombia then from Colombia to La Paz, Bolivia and from La Paz to Cochabamba. Please note that La Paz, the capital of Bolivia, is 11,913 feet (3,631 meters) above sea level making it difficult to breathe even when in the airport.

I travelled to Rio to celebrate the New Year and to experience the Brazilian traditions; first, you want to wear a fabulous white outfit for the occasion. White symbolizes peace and good luck. Next, to buy a gift for Iemanjá, goddess of the sea.

I brought flowers, but apparently some people take it a step further and shower Iemanjá with expensive jewelry as well. And then you throw your gifts into the sea in hopes that she will fulfill your dreams and wishes. Finally, you should jump over seven different waves while making your New Year’s wishes, one for each time you jump a wave. I had a truly magical experience and enjoyed watching some of the most incredible fireworks!

I don’t know if it was merely a coincidence, or the Brazilian tradition actually works... But that New Year was BRILLIANT. If I could afford it, I would celebrate New Year’s in Rio every year!

ST FA

CT FA

BM How to travel to Rio de Janeiro?

W There are direct flights from London with British Airways.

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Copacabana Palace Hotel www.belmond.com/copacabana-palace

Cochabamba is a beautiful city in Bolivia, surrounded by picturesque views of the mountains; there isn’t any water in or near this location.

The friendly people, delicious food and beautiful views are most of what captivates you. We visited a few great restaurants during our stay, Globos Cafe and Casa de Campo, both walking distance from our hotel, the Grand Hotel Cochabamba. The traditional Spanish food was phenomenal, and

greatly priced. Bolivianos is the currency used and the exchange rate is reasonable, which makes everything less expensive when compared to US prices.

Transportation was pretty accessible.

Taxis were fairly inexpensive and took us everywhere we needed to go. The traffic lights and rules seemed a bit ductile, mainly because traffic lights and signals did not seem considerable at all times, drivers moved on their own scale. Not to deter anyone, but just informing how flexible the traffic rules seemed to be.

As a tourist, it is imperative to visit the Cristo de la Concordia (Christ of Peace), the largest statue of Jesus Christ that exists. It's located atop San Pedro Hill, to the east of Cochabamba, Bolivia and is accessible by cable car or by climbing 2,000 steps. It is a mustsee when in Cochabamba and one of the main tourist attractions while visiting.

85°F (26 to 29°C) with absolutely no humidity, making it a lot more comfortable than we expected or are used to. Bolivia offers a great deal of culture, from the 'indigenously dressed men and women, who are a common sight in all towns, to the women selling fresh fruits and vegetables, to the men shining shoes on the streets.

All of the positives – the awe inspiring landscapes and scenery, the budget-friendly prices, and the fascinating culture made every bit of the trip worthwhile.

I would recommend anyone interested in exploring new places, absorbing new cultures and enjoying fantastic food to put Cochabamba, Bolivia on your calendar for your next voyage to South America.

Overall, our stay in Bolivia was very pleasant, from the people to the food, to the currency value.

The weather was amazing as temperatures ranged from 80 to

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SEASIDE CHARM at LITTLE

RIVER INN

by Victor Amos

T

he drive from San Francisco to Little River Inn is a naturelover’s dream. Larger-than-life Redwood trees line the highway as CA-128 winds its way through mountainous terrain, carrying you from the river-bed of Anderson Valley, up to the breathtaking cliffs of Mendocino. The three-hour drive takes you past more than a dozen vineyards and apple orchards, ending with expansive views of the Pacific Ocean as you arrive at the property.

It’s not hard to imagine why James Dean retreated to Little River Inn, reserving the same room each time, eventually earning the honor of becoming its namesake. The main house of Little River Inn sits high upon a cliff that overlooks Van Damme Beach, providing a stunning vista as you land on the massive front porch for check-in. The front porch is the central hub of Little River Inn, allowing you access to the front desk, a piano parlor, the main dining room, and Ole’s Whale Watch Bar. Booking a room in the main house puts you squarely on top of these amenities, however, guests staying at the outer cottages have access to complimentary transportation to-and-from their guest house and the main house.

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Little River Inn 7901 N. Highway One Little River, CA 95456 United States of America

accommodations at its Mallory House property, giving you jawdropping views of Mallory Cove and the Pacific Ocean.

The atmosphere of the main house at Little River Inn is quaint, with accents reminiscent of a seaside village. The small, interior staircase and narrow hallways give you an old world, at-home feel, which spillsover into your room. The rooms of the main house are appointed with modern amenities, while effortlessly weaving-in touches of maritime nostalgia through their color palette and decor.

The property sprawls out from the main house, offering differing levels of privacy, on-site amenities, and accessibility for guests. The annexed buildings have perks that include more spacious rooms (many wheelchair accessible), porch & balcony access, fireplaces, and even a steam shower if you’re lucky! If you’re looking for a special experience, Little River Inn also offers off-campus seaside luxury

Mallory House is one of several luxury annexes at Little River Inn, located a short 1 minute drive from the main house. The stand-alone guest house features 3 ocean-view suites that make for an incredible weekend getaway. One of the guest rooms at Mallory House, The Hannah Madison, features deck access (complete with a hot tub), a formal living room, a spacious bathroom with a Jacuzzi bathtub, and a king bed.

Start your day by ordering room service and having a sunrise breakfast on the front porch.

Watching the waves crash over the rocks at Mallory Cove as you sip on fresh-squeezed orange juice and gorge yourself on a stack of Ole’s Swedish Hotcakes is the best way to kick-off your stay. Once you’ve had time to freshen-up for the day, going for a golf lesson at Little River Inn’s 9-hole, Auduboncertified wildlife sanctuary green is a great way to get the blood flowing.

Round-out your afternoon with a few cocktails at Ole’s Whale Watch Bar. By this point in the day, I’m sure

www.littleriverinn.com info@littleriverinn.com +1 (888) INN-LOVE +1 (707) 937-5942

you’re ready to retire to your room, and that isn’t a bad idea. Slip into your hot tub or take a nap on the lawn as you allow yourself to wind down in anticipation of dinner at the main dining room, lead by Chef Marc Dym.

Opt for the garden view and start your meal with the multiple award winning Dungeness Crab Cakes.

The generously lumpy crab cakes are pan seared to perfection and complemented by a creamy mustard dill aioli. You really can’t go

wrong with anything on the menu, but I was particularly impressed by the Flat Iron Steak Diane (a charbroiled steak served with mushroom brandy au jus, herb butter, smashed red potatoes, and green beans almondine). Finish off your meal with one of the seasonal desserts. The tongue-tingling flavor of the Warm Olallieberry Cobbler sparkle on your tongue as the creamy vanilla ice cream coats your tastebuds. It’s the prefect way to end a perfect meal.

Little River Inn offers the perfect combination of scenery & simplicity, making it a fabulous getaway - be it for a weekend or a week.

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cotton-lined bed, a marble breakfast table, a sizable flat-screen TV, large desk and dresser, fully stocked mini fridge, and a stately double Jacuzzi bathtub with bubbles supplied. My room stretched out onto a large private balcony with a 2 large resort lounging chairs and a beautiful view of Hard Rock’s well-manicured gardens. The rooms only get bigger and better from here on up.

LUXURY IN PARADISE – THE HARD ROCK HOTEL PUNTA CANA

by Austen Parker

A

fter taking a pleasant 4-hour flight from New York City, I had the pleasure of spending 5 days at the luxurious and iconic Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. This opulent all-inclusive oceanside resort provided enormously spacious suites, unbeatable VIP-level service, and an unforgettable experience. If you’re looking for the picture-perfect place to have a romantic destination wedding, post-wedding honeymoon, or simply an exciting place to vacation – The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Punta Cana is the place for you.

Amenities & Service

Rooms & Resort Property Even the smallest standard suite available (The Caribbean Suite) expands over a massive 781 sq. ft.

– spaciously fitting 2 people. Upon entering, there was a large closet to the right with an ample supply of hangers, 2 bathrobes, and a digital safe for valuables. To the left was an enormous bathroom with 2 modern sinks, wall-to-wall mirrors, plenty of counter space, a huge luxurious stone-tiled glass encased doubleheaded shower, and a separate room for the toilet. As I walked past the foyer, there was a large splitlevel bedroom with a plush Egyptian

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First and foremost, the 24hr room service is astounding. I never waited more than 25 minutes for my order – even when I was ordering drinks, appetizers, entrees, and dessert for 4! It was such a treat to wake up every morning to a hot pot of coffee, fresh orange juice, a fresh fruit platter, and a variety of breakfast options. The staff is very friendly and seems genuinely interested in your overall enjoyment and experience at The Hard Rock resort. Room cleanup could not be easier – you simply press a button to the right of the front door and cleaning staff comes to remove all of your dirty dishes, change the linens and towels, and restock all the toiletries. I give the overall room service and cleaning service 5 stars.

– including a Japanesestyle steakhouse, Brazilian steakhouse, and a lovely Italian restaurant. 13 pools expand across the resort, with one being a trendy adults-only pool (Eden Pool). Bali style beds can be reserved at Eden Pool as well as along the pristine turquoise water-lined beach. This is great for this looking to relax pool/ beachside with complimentary food and drink service. Numerous other amenities are available including a well-equipped fitness center, a masterfully-designed 18-hole golf course, free parking, Wi-Fi throughout the entire resort, an onsite theater for routinely scheduled concerts, organized pool parties, and 4 beachside wedding gazebos – just to name a few!

The Unique Hard Rock Experience Whether you’re looking to have your wedding, honeymoon, or simply to embark on a lavish vacation, The Hard Rock offers a number unique experiences that differentiate their resort from the rest.

At the Rock Spa, I was able to experience their brand-exclusive

famed synchronicity massage – part of Hard Rock’s revolutionary Rhythm and Motion treatment options where I received one of the best Swedish (music-infused) massages of my life. The masseuse’s movements were synchronized flawlessly with the rhythm of the music while using organic essential oils to relax and detoxify the body.

After experiencing the Rock Spa, I can safely say it is easily the largest (and one of the best) spas in the Dominican Republic.

The resort also offers a hands-on music experience – where guests are able to have Fender guitars and DJ equipment delivered to their rooms at no additional charge. This is a great one-of-a-kind service for those musicians looking for a resort where they can have spontaneous jam sessions throughout their trip.

Cont.

In regard to the actual resort, the main complex is enormous with soaring ceilings and stately architecture throughout. It houses not only the largest and best casino in the Dominican Republic, but also a palatial world-class spa, and one of the highest rated nightclubs in the Dominican Republic. The property offers quality fine and casual dining over its 13 restaurants 123 WBM

TRAVEL For prospective brides and future honeymooners, Hard Rock has partnered exclusively with Collin Cowie – a world-renowned celebrity wedding planner – to offer opulent/ celebrity-style customized packages where every detail is expertly selected based on Collin Cowie’s leading creative vision and the client’s needs and desires. Here at Hard Rock, you truly can have the wedding you have always dreamed of.

Overall, my experience at The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Punta Cana

All you need is love. was nothing short of spectacular.

On behalf on World Bride Magazine, I would like to praise this luxurious resort for their 5-star accommodation, amenities, and service- with a special thanks being extended to the Hard Rock staff and most gracious Paula Benzo and Willy Hobal for their unparalleled hospitality.

We’ll take care of the rest.

Everything Weddings at Baiting Hollow Farm Vineyard.

Have an experience of a lifetime and book your stay with Hard Rock Punta Cana today. www.hardrockhotelpuntacana.com

With its sublime and rural beauty, BHFV offers a beautiful venue and the perfect backdrop for your once in a lifetime event.

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that tastes good, looks good and does good.

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Bottles are uniquely custom wrapped to match wedding theme and include a personalized gift card. Plus, a feel good message - “enjoy this wine knowing that 100% of the profits go to the horse rescue”.

2114 Sound Avenue, Baiting Hollow, NY 11933 WBM 124

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PARK CITY UTAH P

ark City, Utah, known by most as the home to Sundance, skiing, and snowboarding, is more than just a winter oasis.

Surrounded by majestic mountains, breathtaking scenery, rich American history and undeniable western spirit, Park City attracts travelers from all around the world during every single season.

This summer, take a journey to Park City and Deer Valley and enjoy all the active, exciting, interesting and out-of-this-world experiences these places have to offer. Don’t worry, you will be welcomed with open arms.

On a beautiful clear day, I arrived in Park City and headed to Main & SKY, one of the area’s most popular boutique hotels, located in the heart of it all on Main Street. This chic landmark hotel embodies healthy living in an intimate setting with the luxury, sophistication and elegance of a world-class destination hotel. I loved it right from the start! My twobedroom suite was pure perfection, with its own Jacuzzi, which I took full advantage of after ordering a bottle of wine and relaxing before dinner.

Later that night, I headed to Handle, a rustic-chic, farm-to-table eatery with a Williamsburg, Brooklyn vibe.

Co-owners Melissa Gray and Chef Briar Handle, opened this culinary hot spot, which offers small-plates that defy innovation. Personally, WBM 126

I was obsessed with their fried chicken and caramel pudding, a signature dish in Utah. Handle offers expertly crafted cocktails, one of their specialties is The Rattle Snake Cocktail, which everyone at the restaurant seemed to be enjoying while engaging in lasting conversations.

The next morning I kicked off my day at Deer Valley Grocery Café, where I enjoyed fresh roasted coffee and amazing espresso drinks in addition to the great all-organic breakfast menu. While enjoying the crisp mountain air on the lakeside dining deck, my choice of the morning was the avocado and beet toast that was topped with goat cheese, micro greens and black Hawaiian sea salt. What a healthy and fulfilling start of the day!

After breakfast, I headed into a day of hiking, zip lining, and adventure galore. A place called Silver Lake would set the scene for a late morning hike. Silver Lake Trail is a 4.5 mile trail located near Alpine, UT

that has a beautiful lake and offers a number of activity options like, bike riding and fly fishing. The views of the American Fork Canyon are gorgeous as you get higher up the mountain. And after two hours of a picturesque hike, it was off to lunch at the Royal Street Café.

Later that day I mustered up all my courage to take on the adventure of a lifetime, the Canyons Zip Line Adventure Tour. With my knees shaking under me and my heart pounding out of my chest, I held on for dear life while I went off one of the tallest zip lines in the country.

This was by far the highlight of my trip and the topic of conversation for almost the rest of my stay. I think it took me a day to fully get my bearings back but the pictures and Instagram likes made it totally worth it!

Following a long day of exploring it was time for dinner at Shabu, a oneof-a-kind freestyle Asian restaurant that combines the region’s coveted dishes with fresh, global flavors. My recommendation: the Shabu Shabu, which lets the dinner be the chef’s choice. A fresh udon soup and a Saketini complemented the meal and sent me off to sleep.

The next day we were off to the Kimball Arts Festival on Main Street, which offered live music performances, hands on activities for people of all ages, and over

Images Courtesy of Main & SKY | Park City

by Gwen Wunderlich

200 hundred artists selling their artwork. After purchasing what will now be known as my most unique piece of artwork I own to date, I headed to one of my favorite places in Park City, High West Distillery, a Saloon and restaurant that offers a truly spectacular experience as the world’s only ski-in distillery and gastro-saloon. It is located at exactly 7000 feet in the Wasatch Range of the Rocky Mountains in Old Town Park City, Utah. I took a behind-the-scene tour of the distillery, learned how to make my own spirits, and enjoyed lunch complete with whiskey lemonades.

The end of that evening was pure perfection with a night out under the stars at the Utah Symphony. The music, the lights, and the magic could never be replaced. Basking over my gourmet picnic basket, I enjoyed the beautiful sounds of the symphony while the music took my breath away.

With just one more day to take advantage of the beautiful Park City and having time to myself to stroll around Main Street, two of the most coveted boutiques caught my eye. Cake, the one-stop shop for all things contemporary, was full with premium denim and perfect all-year boots, while Flight’s to-diefor colorful clothing allowed me to change my style from its normal all-black attire. Continuing my stroll down Main Street, I discovered the town’s museum, The Park City Museum. While exploring the

interactive exhibits on Park City’s rich history, make sure to stop by the city’s original basement jail.

Thankfully, this is the closest I have ever gotten to being in an actual jail cell.

My final night’s dinner took place at Zoom, one of the most popular restaurants in Park City due to the owner being acclaimed actor Robert Redford. Zoom, located in a restored Union Pacific Depot, celebrates the town’s heritage over fresh and local food that can be enjoyed with friends and family. Make sure to try their flavorful Truffle Mac & Cheese and rich Buffalo Ribeye while sipping on the Sundance Margarita.

Before I knew it, my getaway had come to an end, and it was time to get back to my reality of New York City’s hustle and bustle. But, Park City, a perfect summer escape, is yours for the taking now.

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I had waited all my life for this moment to arrive, and knew it to be true, as a feeling wafted over me that could only be described as a moment of déjà vu and panting excitement. As the warm moist air touched my face on the drive from the airport to my hotel, it was the first time in a long while that everything I expected to happen didn’t happen and the first time that nothing that I expected did.

The humid air whispered to me “welcome to Cuba, welcome to Havana." I felt a wave of excitement as I entered her city of many contrasts and contradictions.

Number one on my bucket list for some years has been Cuba. In London, where I currently live, I was out Salsa dancing with a close friend who is a great Cuban salsa dancer. He challenged me to see how good my New York style salsa was in the hope of converting me to Cuban style salsa. I was amazed at how many people of all shades WBM 128

and shapes were seriously enjoying Cuban salsa at a level, which I had never seen while living in New York.

On that night, I fell in love with Cuban salsa, never to return to the former style of which I had danced some 20 + years in New York. My new goal was to somehow become as agile on the floor as the folks in front of me on the dance floor but better. How does one achieve that?

Go to Cuba and learn! I scoured the internet wandering around like a lost soul looking for the ultimate salsa trip. Nothing seemed quite right and I reverted to my friend requesting a suggestion and in that moment my life changed for the better when he suggested 3 words: Key 2 Cuba. Armed with his visits on one of her memorable trips, he advised it was the “only” salsa trip to take and boy … I was I not disappointed.

It made sense . . .what better way to enjoy a holiday and tick off the

As we drove through Havana in an old taxi with the windows down at night, my eyes feasted on the grand, yet imposing derelict buildings, with their rich Spanish Colonial architecture as the warm moist air skimming my face. The city has definitely been stuck in a time warp, needing much ‘TLC’ (tender loving care) and the taxis from the 1950s are old yet pristine and have been maintained in an unbelievable manner that keeps them working without fault, yet more or less, maintaining the same precision of any vehicle built in the 21st century.

Regardless there is so much beauty in what once was and what could potentially be.

Upon arrival to our hotel in Havana Vieja (Old Havana) – we dropped our bags, showered, changed and were off on our first adventure to see a live Rumba show in a nightclub on the other side of town.

As my ears filled with the sound of incredible singing, my eyes followed as dancers appeared in costume interpreting the Orishas (gods deriving from the Yoruba faith in Nigeria). The importance of witnessing this dance is that every Cuban is assigned an Orisha at birth along with a Catholic saint.

Images courtesy of by Aguirre Rolando (Tusisuena)

The performances are intriguing, enabling you to learn so much about the gods through the interpretation of their dance. It is too hard to explain but an amazing experience to watch. Fortunately you can learn the dance through Kerry's course.

Images courtesy of by Key2Cuba

CUBA

number one on your bucket list than to combine it with the thing you love most – SALSA. I was fortunate enough to speak with the owner of Key 2 Cuba, Kerry Ribchester and before I knew it, four months later, I joined her 3-week summer programme. In Havana Airport at a cambio pinching myself, as I couldn’t believe I was actually there. Greeted by a beautiful Cuban woman named Eva, (the first of many I was to encounter) we were given a brief tour of the city in Spanglish (a combination of English and Spanish words). I was excited as it gave me at long last an opportunity to practice my Spanish.

by Michelle Lowe

Images courtesy of by Aguirre Rolando (Tusisuena)

Filled with joy of my dream becoming reality, I knew we had just touched the tip of the iceberg.

The next day, the view from my hotel lobby was awesome. I could see lots of beautiful people of color walking around the city in an elegant manner that I had neither seen before nor expected. From the lobby of the hotel, to the parks, to the nightclubs, there was literally music everywhere. In every corner, car and taxi, music was emanating.

And while dancing in the varied nightclubs the sound of salsa permeated my every thought – it was wonderful! The wafting sounds of salsa, reggaeton, rhumba, son and bachata are everywhere; restaurants, public places, parks, bars and of course clubs. Every evening we had the pleasure of watching and dancing to live music, at indoor and outdoor clubs, at the beach, the carnival and even a private home. Kerry made it all possible.

Walking around the city we encountered a few people asking

for money. Albeit in creative ways; it was never threatening, at times, insistent and over zealous, but never uncomfortable. Often, their approach is from a position of a sweet manner for the most part.

One of the most impressive things I noticed was a comfort level in regards to security. I never once felt insecure or unsafe. That being said, like any big city you should be aware of your surroundings. If you are taking US dollars I would suggest you convert it to Euros or GBP. The value of the dollar is low and you are unable to use US credit or debit cards there. I repeat there are no ATM machines or banks with the ability to convert US currency to CUC. (Convertible pesos - the currency used by visitors and not by locals.)

My focus was redirected and enthralled by the stunning sight of colonial Spanish architecture. While most buildings are dilapidated there is so much beauty within the crumbling and the decaying painted structures. The buildings reveal the stories of how decadent life had been in the 1950s before Castro’s revolution took place. I urge you to read up on Cuba, its history and current evolution it is slowly experiencing now and gradually scooting them on into the 21st century.

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Our accommodation at the Sevilla Hotel, a 4 star property was a beautiful structure. The service was slow but they always eventually delivered. The rooms were standard and clean and the hotel overall was nice. The staff was amazing, always smiling and happy to help. From the lobby security to the chambermaids, everyone was lovely. Be aware, for those of you travelling from the US, you must adjust your expectations.

Their standards are not the same, remember, Cuba is a socialist country ruled by a Communist ideology. Therefore the term luxury, while it does exist would be considered comparatively moderate for US standards. While staying at the beach just outside of Havana, we stayed at a basic hotel which I would not recommend unless you are on a very tight budget and don’t mind where you stay unless as long as you have a bed. There is alternate option of staying at a Casa Particular (a private home with rooms rented by local Cubans), which I would liken to Airbnb. I had the distinct pleasure of staying at an amazing Casa with access to rooftop where you can enjoy the evening and views of the city. Although a steep walk up, what welcomes you is a clean and modern two-bedroom apartment with a washing machine and wonderful hosts Janet and Silvio. I highly recommend it. For alternate accommodation, check Lonely Planet, Trip Advisor and Cuba Board of Tourism http://www.travel2cuba. co.uk/hotels-in-cuba/ or the official site for Cuban Travel http://www. cubatravel.cu/en WBM 130

Speaking of expectations lets look at the food situation and service in general. Lets just say if you love “arroz con pollo” – chicken and rice, you will be in heaven. Essentially, Cuban cuisine is lacking good spices and seasoning and variety.

Fruit and vegetables tend to be seasonal which is a good thing.

Yet, out of need, there has been a rise in nouvelle cuisine restaurants popping up which are equal to any in the US, in terms of quality, invention combined with a “mezcla” of Cuban, French, Spanish and American influences, or infusions of Cuban flair in a contemporary sense.

Service tends to be slow, so don’t go out starving and if it is a popular place expect a long wait. Especially, should you choose to dine at some of the popular Paladores.

As a true foodie, the little I experienced of this new food scene was excellent and on par with restaurants of like in New York and London. Check out Trip Advisor’s top ten restaurants. The restaurants I enjoyed with great admiration were, in terms of consistency and price, Asturias Bar Restaurant – Italian, Sia Kara - French with an eclectic space and handsome waiters; 304 O’Reilly’s, great menu and cosy and fun environment. At their sister restaurant El Del Frente: great music, excellent menu and bar, with an additional rooftop area for dinner and drinks. And one of my favorites for extremely warm service and be sure to ask for Wilson. He was such a wonderful host and easy on the eye too! Get my drift? It's not just the food or the ambience that made these restaurants reach the top of my list!

Let's talk about Wi-Fi, the bane of my existence in Havana. I would use two words to describe it, lacking and expensive. In order to have access you need to purchase a Wi-Fi

card for approximately £3.50/ $5.00 per hour on a scratch off card. And depending on where you purchase the card it can cost you more or less.

In addition, depending on where you are it may or may not work.

It is inconsistent and you can get dropped at a moment's notice and thus your card is no longer valid.

Your best bet is to find a hotspot at a park for uninterrupted access, which I learned by the end of my 3-week visit. Finally, frustrated beyond belief, I decided to have a Wi-Fi free holiday – well at least for the most part, in order to not waste money and retain my sanity.

a ride but that’s another story for another day.

The main sights are the Revolution Museum, the Bella Arts and the Ballet. But my favorite is Calle de Hamel known mainly for what it represents, a genius idea of the Cuban artist, muralist and sculptor known as Salvador. Salvador Gonzáles Escalona began Calle de Hamel in April 21, 1990 where there is a combination of Afro-Cuban art, restaurants and bars. The proceeds go to teaching the children in the neighbourhood art and other community funded projects. As Lonely Planet describes it as the “Havana's high temple of Afro-Cuban culture in Centro Habana is the frenetic rumba music that kicks off every Sunday at around noon.”

READ MORE http://www.lonelyplanet.com/cuba/ havana/entertainmentnightlife/other/ callejon-de-hamel

In terms of sight seeing, you can take an official red bus tour of which I hear is okay, but is an audio tour. In my opinion, your best bet is to walk.

There is so little and yet so much to see which you can discover along a side street, you may happen upon a large mural on a main street or a huge sculpture along the Malecon.

Sitting at the famous waterfront the Malecon could simply be the most romantic thing you can do if you are with that special someone.

I highly recommend you see as much of the city by “ Biccie” (pronounced bee cee) a twoseated open-air bicycle somewhat comfortable while a young, strong strapping Cubano cycles you around town. Unless you have my luck, which on two occasions involved a one armed cyclist moving me slowly from point A to point B with no sense of urgency. I actually wanted to get out and give him

The best sight is the Cuban culture that you see and experience every day and every minute specifically in the music and dancing. It comes effortlessly to the local Cubans and you wonder with appreciation and admiration if you could ever be as good at skill that permeates the very thread of their being. Which brings me to my “piece de resistance” of Cuba, Kerry Ribchester, owner of Key 2 Cuba.

she does and she exudes her love and pride of the Cuban people and their culture. The level to which she breaks down the various dances, for example; salsa, son, rumba and mambo to name a few are with such care, description and passion that I doubt anyone can top what Kerry has to offer. Her dancers are a combination of mostly young, strong and handsome men with a few gorgeous women to assist in teaching and improving your moves.

They are all extremely professional, highly skilled and very patient to a fault. To add to exhilaration you feel from the classes, you have the option to enhance what you have learned in class and put it further into action at night. Nightly dance parties are arranged for you to dance till you drop with the dancers at a variety of nightclubs throughout Havana. Due to Kerry’s long term alliance and relationship with many professional artists, we had the pleasure of meeting, mingling and having VIP treatment at concerts, venues and clubs.

She even arranges a special event at the beach along with several unexpected treats. If I had to give Kerry a 10 out of 10 for her program she would certainly receive an 11.

A phenomenal way of preparing for your wedding dance and creating a sexy experience as a

couple would be to take Kerry’s Key 2 Cuba excursion in Cuba.

Kerry offers the trip 3 times a year; around Easter, summer and New Year’s as well as private classes in the UK. If necessary, Kerry can tailor make your dance tuition or plan your wedding in Havana.

Cuba is a wonderful place to fall in love, because it opens you up to a wonderful bonding experience.

Check her out at http://www. key2cuba.com/ Cuba has a Caribbean flavor with a strong influence of Spanish and African culture. The women and men are beautiful and handsome respectively. My bucket list is not extensive but the one place I had to visit was Cuba. I can truly say if tomorrow doesn’t come for me, I have completed number one on my wish list.

Between the music, the affection of the people and attention of the men don’t be surprised if you leave your heart in Havana, needing to return to recapture it. Havana feels like the lover you crave for and can’t get enough but yet know you shouldn’t have. It is eclectic, creative and still full of promise. I know because it happened to me and when I think of Havana my heart pounds with excitement and joy.

I mentioned briefly that Kerry’s course came highly recommended but I was unprepared for what I was to experience. Kerry and her dancers that work with her from the dance troupe Raíces Profundas.

Her attention to detail and methodology for teaching is second to none. Not only does she have the ability to teach well no matter your level, it is clear that she loves what 131 WBM

COLOMBIA

by Carly Petrone

Have you ever run down the cobblestoned streets of Cartagena carrying a coconut, a can of bubbles, a fan, WBM 132

and a sack of beans? I have. This is what happens when you crash a Colombian wedding. On the day our team checked into the La Merced Hotel, we met Juanita, a blushing bride-to-be who just happened to be getting hitched a few doors down from us. She insisted that we attend not only her reception but the beautiful ceremony taking place at Santo Toribio. One day later, we threw on our best outfit and headed to the church. The hour-long mass was traditional, ornate, and breathtaking – each guest was given a packet of beans and bubbles and freshly cut coconut to shower the newly married couple. As the newlyweds exited as man and wife, traditional Colombian dancers called palenqueras escorted the wedding guests down to the reception at La Casa de la Maria Luisa. The men led the way, beating their drums while the female cumbia dancers proudly showed off their moves with their large skirts. The energy along the streets was electric and the immediate offering of an ice cold mojito from the bartender at the reception venue made it easy to get in party mode. The bride and groom made sure to stop by every table to say hello while the waiters kept the champagne and rum flowing.

A live band lured everyone onto the dance floor – complete with fog machine and sparklers – while a full buffet and assorted table of desserts kept guests full. You could feel the love, not only between the bride and groom, but between the families and guests lucky enough to take part in such a momentous

In the mood to spend some pesos? Then Cartagena is the place to splurge. The American dollar goes a long way and vendors love bargaining with tourists, so come ready to make a deal. The classic Panama hat can be seen stacked high on practically every street corner and can be bought for less than $20, as vendors walk around selling hammocks and handmade jewelry. I definitely wasn’t leaving Colombia without a Wayuu Mochila bag – a traditional circular purse that is used to carry food and water.

These intricately decorated bags take up to 20 days to make because each one is hand woven using thick cotton threads. Even the straps are woven with a variety of colors to create a unique pattern.

If you’re looking for a tropical destination with warm and welcoming people, delicious food, and plenty of culture, then Colombia is your next stop. As a New Yorker, the short four and half hour flight opened up my eyes to the Latin world that I can’t wait to explore further.

occasion. I felt honored to be a part of it.

It’s hard to talk about Colombia without mentioning color. It was the first thing I noticed about Cartagena.

From the ten-foot ornate doorways and brightly painted buildings to the breathtaking sunsets and flowers that seemed to be in bloom everywhere, there was always something to grab your attention.

Half of my camera was filled with images of the lovely doorways that lined the streets of the “walled city.” Each one possessed its own character thanks to the old metal hinges that were accented with unique knockers. We were told by our tour guide, Joyce, that each knocker represented the family’s social status during colonial times.

Families were eager to show off their wealth using these decorative motifs. Royalty associated with lizards and iguanas while those in the merchant class featured fish or mermaids.

Images Courtesy of Toni Smailagic

Y

ou may want to head to Colombia just for the food.

During my five-day stay in the coastal town of Cartagena, my taste buds danced with happiness.

From a simple breakfast of freshly cut meats and cheese to a paella lunch, then ending with a seafood dinner, there was always something delicious to look forward to. When it was time for a snack, plenty of arepa carts (a traditional corn or flour cake filled with cheese and butter) patrolled the popular streets of the walled city. It was easy to cool off from the staggering heat with an icy snow cone churned from a manual ice machine, or recharge with a heaping plate of juicy fruit from the colorful basket ladies that roamed the streets of the old city. The mamoncillo fruit was definitely my favorite find – a small grape-sized acidic fruit filled with fleshy pulp that you squeezed out with your teeth. Just watch out for the pit! If you want to know the absolute best thing to order for dinner, simply ask for the Pescado Frito (or ColombianStyle Fried Fish). It’s traditionally served with coconut rice, plantains, salad, and garnished with a wedge of lime. Don’t be afraid of the word “fried,” this crispy fish is anything but greasy. And the ceviche? GET IT. That’s all I’m going to say. If you need something to wash it all down with, try the refreshing Colombian beer, Aquila, or opt for a traditional drink called aguapanela (sugar cane drink).

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CONCIERGE BEAUTY

David Yurman - www.davidyurman.com

Brides By Sonia Castleberry www.bridesbysoniacastleberry.com

Blvgari - www.blugari.com

CHANEL - www.chanel.com DIOR - www.dior.com/beauty OH My Heavenly Hair - www.omhh.com TOM FORD - www.tomford.com TEMPTU - www.temptu.com HEALTH & FITNESS GET FIT WITH RAY - www.getfitwithray.com LACI CHISHOLM Fit4Dance - www.fit4dancenyc.com

FASHION & STYLE Designer Loft - 226 West 37th Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10018, 212-944-9013 Mark Ingram Salon - The Park 55 Building, 110 East 55th Street, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10022, 212.319.6778 Bridal Reflections - 260 Fifth Avenue | New York, NY 10001, 212-764-3040 Vera Wang Bride - 991 Mad ison Avenue New York, NY- 212.628-3400 Amsale New York - 625 Madison, New York City- 212 583-1700 Monique Lhuiller - 19 East 71st Street New York,NY 212-683-3332 moniquelhuillier.com

Tiffany’s - www.tiffany.com Mikimoto - www.mikimotoamerica.com Donna Distefano - 212.594.3757 www.DonnaDistefanoltd.com Links London - 535 Madison Avenue 200 Park Avenue - linksoflondon.com Michael C. Fina - 500 Park Avenue - New York 800.289.3462 - michaelcfina.com Jung Lee - 25 West 29th Street New York City - 212257-5655 - JungLeeNY.com ForeverMark - FOREVERMARK.COM David Alan Jewelry - 212-382-1410 - www. davidalanjewelry.com - info@davidalanjewelry.com William Henry - WILLIAMHENRY.COM

GLOBE TROTTING Frosch-Casablanca Tours, Inc. www.casablancatour.com - www.frosch.com Cultural Island Travel www.culturalislandtravel.com Jetsetter - www.jetsetter.com Travelocity - www.travelocity.com Expedia - www.expedia.com Orbitz - www.orbitz.com

Romona Keveza Collection - One Rockefeller Plaza -The Penthouse New York, NY

Sicily - www.wheninsicily.com

Stephen Yearick at Bridal Reflections Fifth Avenue New York City - 212-764-3040

AMENETIES

Kleinfeld - 110 West 20th Street, New York NY 10011 Wedding Atelier - 72 Madison Avenue, 4th Floor New York, NY 10016 - 646.638.3263 - www.

WeddingAtlelier.com Ines Di Santo - www.INESDISTANTO.COM Jenny Yoo Collection - 132 West 36th St. 9th Floor New York - 212.645.0823 - WWW.JENNYYOO.COM Burnbaum & Bullock Bridal Salon - 151 West 25th Street Suite 6A - New York NY 10001 - www. birnbaumandbullock.com - 212-242-2914 Sarah Seven - 180 Lafayette Street 5th Floor New York FlagShip - www.sarahseven.com L’fay Bridal - 973- 556-4699 9 Roosevelt Avenue Chatham, NJ 07928 www.lfay.com BELLA Bridesmaids - 545 eighth avenue suite 1525 New York, NY 10018 - 212.695.2700 - nyc@ bellabridesmaids.com

ACCESSORIES House of Waris - www.houseofwaris.com

Planner Destiny and Destinations www.destinyanddestinations.it Weddings By MWD LIFESTYLES www.weddings.mwdlifestyles.com

Stationery Connor New York - Barneys New York - 212.833.2708 - CONNORNYC.COM The Village Invites - 10 East 39th Street 212.220.6199 - Inquiries@villageinvites.com - www.villageinvites. com The Glass Houses Premier Event Space In New York - 545 west 25th street 25th floor New York NY 10001 - 212.242.7800 www.THEGLASSHOUSES.COM Midtown Loft and Terrace - 267 Fifth Avenue, New York NY 10016 www.midtownloft.com Aqua Azul Yacht - Chelsea Piers Pier 60 North 917.686.1016 - www.AquaAzulYacht.com

FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT

De Beers - www.debeers.com

Chef Rodney LoveJones 2Good2B, www.2good2b.com

Cartier - www.cartier.com

Taking Tea Instyle - www.takingteainstyle.com

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Experience food Design - 503 West 43rd Street New York, NY 10036 - 212.947.2480, www.canardinc.com The Gradview Elegant Events - 176 Rinaldi Boulevard, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 - 845-486-4700 Grandviewevents.com Weylin B. Seymour’s 1875 - 175 broadway Brooklyn, NY 11211 - 718-963-3639 - weylinbseymours.com Maritime Parc - 84 Audrey Zapp Drive Jersey City, NJ 07305 -201.413.0050 - www.Maritimeparc.com Tara Guerard - 54 Chapel Street Charleston, Sc 29403 - 843.577.5006 TaraGuerard.com James Abel Events - 917.399.4552 - www. jamesabelevents.com

VENUE & LOCATIONS The Plaza Hotel - www.theplazany.com The Peninsula - www.peninsula.com St. Regis Hotel - www.stregisnewyork.com 1 Obre Place, Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 - 732.747.0200 - Shadowbrook.com Oheka Castle Hotel & Estate - 135 West Gate Drive Huntington NY 11743 - 631- 659-1400 www.oheka. com Rainbow Room - 212.632.5000 - www.RainbowRoom. com Weylin B. Seymour’s 1875 - 175 broadway Brooklyn, NY 11211 - 718-963-3639 - weylinbseymours.com Maritime Parc - 84 Audrey Zapp Drive Jersey City, NJ 07305 -201.413.0050 - www.Maritimeparc.com The Glass Houses Premier Event Space In New York - 545 west 25th street 25th floor New York NY 10001 - 212.242.7800 - www.THEGLASSHOUSES.COM The Edison Ballroom - 240 west 47th street New York, NY 10036 - 212- 201- 7650 www.

EDISONBALLROOM Midtown Loft and Terrace - 267 Fifth Avenue, New York NY 10016 www.midtownloft.com Aqua Azul Yacht - Chelsea Piers Pier 60 North 917.686.1016 - www.AquaAzulYacht.com The Village Invites - 10 East 39th Street 212.220.6199 - Inquiries@villageinvites.com - www.villageinvites. com

Our real bride competition is UNIQUE. We offer the chance for a REAL BRIDE to participate in a professional photoshoot with us here in NYC and win a honeymoon break to a breathtaking global destination.

Be sure to visit our website and check for our latest competitions and rules.* www.worldbridemagazine.com/real-brides-real-beauty * You must register to have a chance.

PHOTOGRAPHERS & VIDEOS Regina Flemings Photography www.reginaflemiingsphotography.com Joseph Lin Photography - 419 Lafayette Street New York, NY 10003 www.jlinphotography.com Brett Matthews Photography - 224 Fifth Avenue New York City - 212.337.0111 Brettmathews.com

POUR HOMME Eton - www.etonshirts.com Thomas Pink - www.thomaspink.com Salvatore Ferragamo - www.ferragamo.com

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