Bridesabroad 14

BRIDES ABROAD WEDDING & HONEYMOON INSPIRATION

SNOW

WEDDINGS THEY’RE SO COOL! ❤ Alpine ❤ Ice hotels ❤ Northern lights

Far flung Paradise Destinations NEW YORK

iconic weddings in the

BIG APPLE

REAL WEDDINGS

❤ Sri Lanka ❤ Tuscany ❤ Mauritius ❤ New York ❤ Greek Islands ❤ Canada

Honeymoon Savings

286 Fabulous WEDDING

IDEAS

❤ Beachfront gazebos ❤ Rustic chapels ❤ Cliff tops ❤ Sunset cruises

WEDDING PLANNING

Tips from the experts

❤ weather ❤ legals ❤ wedding countdown ❤ ask the planners

Greek

HONEYMOONS Sun and fun in the land of the Gods

£3.99

Issue 14

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Welcome

Credits Published by Joint Venture Media Ltd Tel: 01937 58 48 92

Publisher Martin Cody-Owen martin@jointventuremedia.tv

Editor-in-Chief Terri Cody-Owen terri@bridesabroad.tv

AND CONGRATULATIONS!

Assistant to Publisher

“Baby it’s cold outside”, sings Michael Bublé to Idina Mendzell – and he’s not wrong! But when the temperature plummets, the days are short and the nights are long, there is no better time to snuggle up and start planning for your dream wedding!

Contributors

Let us give you some advice; it’s YOUR big day – so do what YOU want, and everything else will fall into place.

If it’s your dream to say “I do” under a swaying palm with the sand between your toes, or maybe in an ice hotel in the Arctic Circle or on the manicured lawn of a Swiss lakeside hotel – then go for it!

Our research confirms that if you give your guests plenty of notice about your wedding abroad, they will do their best to incorporate your big day into their holiday plans so they can be there to help celebrate your marriage with you.

So, with the world at your feet, where would you like to go? Our job at Brides Abroad is to give you ideas and inspiration – so spread your wings and treat yourself and your guests to a real adventure.

How about a trip to the Indian Ocean island of Sri Lanka (p.20) where you can have a colourful Buddhist –style wedding, called a Puruwa, with all the local traditions and rituals, including a decorated elephant to impress your guests? Or perhaps you’d prefer the stunning tropical splendour of Mauritius, still in the Indian Ocean, where you can exchange your vows under a floral gazebo on a palm-fringed sandy beach (p.40).

If you plan to stay in Europe you may fancy being la bella sposa? (Or ‘beautiful bride’ as the Italians say) with a rustic, authentic Italian wedding in the hills of Tuscany (p.30), or perhaps aboard a boat in the sparkling Aegean Sea as it sails between around the romantic Greek island Amorgos? (p.60).

Greece remains one of the most popular destinations closer to home, so why not take a leisurely honeymoon discovering Halkidiki in its unspoilt setting, fringed by gorgeous sandy beaches? (p.98) Perhaps the beach isn’t for you, so how about a stylish and sophisticated wedding or honeymoon in Or for something seriously cool, be a Snow Queen with a winter wonderland wedding in the frozen Canadian province of Quebec in a spectacular Ice Chapel (p.68).

New York City?

A honeymoon in the Caribbean is always a safe bet, but which is the perfect island for you? Find out in our feature (p.104). But if you want to travel long-haul and fancy spreading your wings, discover some of the lesser known honeymoon hotspots – we recommend star gazing in Northern Chile or a sublime spa holiday in the Australian rainforest. Check out our selection of Far Flung destinations (p. 112).

And don’t forget, if you would like some expert advice and details of how to save ££££s with our own latest honeymoon deals worldwide, just ring the Brides Abroad Travel Desk on 0800 211 8255 and our experienced travel consultants will be happy to talk to you.

Patsy Owen

Lisa Burton Holly Catz Lily Gish Alan Benstock Martin Cody-Owen

Photography Dreamstime Wedding Studio Sathya David Bastianoni Jocelyn Fayolle Lina Jang Maria Theologitou Jacquie Cutler Xavier Dachez

Design Anil Verma Chris Peach

Printer Warners Midlands Plc www.warners.co.uk

Advertising Sales Joint Venture Media Ltd 01937 58 48 92 martin@bridesabroad.tv

So enjoy 2015 and don’t forget – it’s your day, so do what you want to do!

Director of Sales

Terri Cody-Owen EDITOR terri@bridesabroad.tv

Cover

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0800 211 8255 www.BridesAbroad.tv ©Joint Venture Media Ltd. All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights are reserved. Reproductionwithout permission is prohibited. The views expressed in Brides Abroad magazine do not necessarily represent the views ofJoint Venture Media. Every care is taken in compiling the contents but the publisher of Brides Abroad magazine assume noresponsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from participation in any offer, competition or advertisement contained within Brides Abroad magazine.

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Photo: by Xavier Dachez.

Katherine and Austin Hind’s ice wedding at Hotel de Glace, Quebec. www.hoteldeglace-canada.com

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Contents IN THIS ISSUE 32

8 28 37 48 58 66 80

Wedding and honeymoon news Steal Tracey's style Steal Emma's style Steal Jana's style Steal Lisa's style Steal Nelli's style Get the look – Ice Weddings

REAL WEDDINGS 22

Buddhist beach wedding Tracey and Jason embrace Sri Lankan traditions with an authentic Poruwa wedding

32

Vintage Italian Emma and Christopher's wedding captures the rustic charm of Tuscany

42

Beach vows in Mauritius Jana and Nick exchange vows under a beautifully decorated beach gazebo

54

Vows in the Big Apple Lisa and Dave chose a fun Sex and the City style celebration in New York City

62

Amour in Amorgos Nelli and Maximilian chose a nautical ceremony afloat in the Big Blue Aegean Sea

72

"I do" in the French Alps Clare and Alex exchanged vows in the lakes and mountains of France

76

76

Totally chilled ceremony in Quebec Katherine and Austin wed in a magnificent Canadian Ice Chapel

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118

WEDDING DESTINATIONS 20

Sri Lanka – marry in blaze of colour Impress your guests with a colourful display of tradition in stunning Sri Lanka

30

Romantic Tuscany Can there be an area of Italy more charming than Tuscany for your dream wedding?

40

Mauritius – life a beach!

This Indian Ocean gem is the perfect setting for gorgeous beach ceremonies

50

A marriage made in Manhattan New York is the setting for many blockbuster movies – so marry like a star in the Big Apple!

60

Amorgos – The Big Blue Greek island Say "I do" in the romantic setting made famous by the film The Big Blue

68

Let it snow!

Awesome ways to marry in magical winter wonderland settings

PLANNING 86

Weather Permitting Your worldwide weather guide

90

Pop the question Your questions answered by expert wedding planners

92

Wedding countdown Month by month planning for your wedding abroad

94

Ask the planner Tips and advice from Lisa Burton of the Bridal Consultancy

96

60

112

Hen spa party!

We take a trip to Whittlebury Hall to discover the ideal spa for a hen party

HONEYMOONS 98

Halkidiki – the spirit of Greece Discover Greece's best-kept secret destination

104

Caribbean dream islands Choose which Caribbean island is perfect for your particular style

112

98

Far flung destinations Don't play safe with popular honeymoon spots, take the opportunity to discover distant shores

118

Alpine Bliss Take a spa and wellness honeymoon break in the Swiss lakes and mountains

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Happy ever after Rendezvous, an idyllic couples-only Caribbean hideaway in St Lucia, has launched the Premium ‘Ever After’ Wedding Collection to compliment the existing Rendezvous Romance package.

Set on a long stretch of white sandy beach and surrounded by tropical gardens, Rendezvous is now transforming wedding fantasies into reality. The new ‘Ever After’ Collection offers beautifully themed weddings to leave you with wonderful memories for ‘ever after’, including: ‘Exotic Oasis’– Middle Eastern style surrounded by antique lanterns, lush carpets and plush ottomans; ‘Island Romance’– couples can celebrate on a private island with just close friends and family; ‘Elope’ – couples escape to a hideout at Rendezvous to enjoy an intimate beachside dinner under the stars or a romantic island picnic; ‘Romance in Bloom’ and ‘Romance by the Sea’ – the ‘Island Romance’ collection for a more intimate ceremony. From a sunset cruise to couple’s spa massages, the bespoke collections personalise each couple’s special celebration.

Book it!

www.theromanticholiday.com/weddingsand-honeymoons

BRIDES ABROADNEWS Be inspired, informed and amazed by the latest news on overseas weddings & honeymoons

Perfectly planned!

The luxury tour operator Scott Dunn has partnered with Bruce Russell, one of the UK’s leading wedding planners, to unveil ‘By Bruce Russell for Scott Dunn’ – an elite wedding and honeymoon service that brings together the combined expertise of Scott Dunn and the creative insight of Bruce Russell. The service enables couples to enjoy the ultimate bespoke wedding and honeymoon experience, from the proposal through to the hen and stag weekends, wedding celebrations, and the honeymoon – from

mini-moons to extended multi-stop itineraries at destinations around the world. You will be truly inspired with suggestions, such as a marrying in a beautiful little church on a Brazilian cliff, or in a Moroccan Kasbah and honeymoon ideas, from driving a convertible Mustang along California’s Pacific Highway to combining a week’s skiing in Vail with sun-worshipping in Mexico. www.scotottdunn.com/brucerussell

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Desert romance The Bedouin-style tented resort of Banyan Tree Al Wadi, at the heart of a desert oasis, is the perfect backdrop for a very special wedding. Situated in Ras Al Khaimah, just 45 minutes from Dubai, this awe-inspiring resort offers views of rolling dunes and ghaf trees dotted around tented villas, each with its own private pool complemented by the sublime, discreet service for which Banyan Tree is renowned.

Here, couples can channel Lawrence of Arabia by arriving to their ceremony on camel or horseback, followed by a traditional BBQ reception served to guests as they relax on Arabic carpets under a canopy of stars.

This chic, all-pool villa resort in the United Arab Emirates is surrounded by a 500-hectare wildlife sanctuary, and never ceases to wow guests with its stunning nature reserve, luxurious facilities and service and hydrotherapy spa treatments.

Book it!

Wedding package prices start £106 per person. www.banyantree.com/en/ em-uae-al-waddi

Private island weddings Sandals Resorts is renowned for its picturesque destination wedding locations – from stunning white sand beaches, lush floral gardens and breathtaking bluffs, to walking down a pier at sunset or saying “I do” in a private on-site wedding chapel.

Now the Sandals Wedding offering is better still as brides and grooms can also tie the knot in true Caribbean style on the gorgeous private offshore islands at Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island in Montego Bay, Jamaica and Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa Resort & Offshore Island in Nassau, the Bahamas, at no extra charge, as part of Sandals’ incredible complimentary WeddingMoon® inclusions.

However, if you would rather say “I do” at one of the Luxury Included® Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts in St Lucia, Antigua, Grenada, the Bahamas, Jamaica, Turks & Caicos and Barbados you will receive a free Beautiful Beginnings

Wedding Package if you book a minimum three-night stay or longer at any resort. The comprehensive Beautiful Beginnings Wedding Package includes a personal wedding planner, music, sparkling wine and hors d’oeuvres for up to six guests, decorations, a couples’ spa treatment in the exclusive Red Lane Spa and more!

Book it!

For further information or to book a WeddingMoon®, visit www.sandals.co.uk/weddingmoons/weddings or call 0800 022 3331 www.BridesAbroad.tv 9

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Serenade your beloved Nothing could be as touching and personal as having a song written especially for your wedding, which is why ‘Song For Your Loved One’ is such a perfect and unique gift – written and crafted by the singersongwriter Lotte Mullan, whose music has featured in films by Ridley Scott and the LOVEFILM advert. All you have to do is provide as much information about your ‘loved one’ as you can and Lotte will write the most beautiful song incorporating everything you have shared with her.

Your song will then be recorded, either as an acoustic piece, with a string section, full on big band – or even the London Philharmonic, depending on your budget! You can even invite Lotte to sing the song at your wedding. The ‘Song For Your Loved One’ is available on Vinyl or a ‘Vinyl look’ CD (with mp3 download) and will be delivered to you in plenty of time for your special occasion. Prices from £375. www.songforyourlovedone.com

Plant a wedding tree If you decide to marry in the stunning Maldives, choose a traditional Maldivian wedding, with all the trimmings! The Angsana Velavaru resort is offering couples an authentic Maldivian wedding, starting with the planting of a coconut tree, a national symbol of the Maldives representing stability. The wedding couple is then escorted to the Angsana Stone where the groom carries the bride three times around the threshold – believed in folklore to protect from evil spirits. The final part of the ceremony takes place at the resort’s over-water chapel, as ‘Bodu Beru’ drummers welcome the bridal couple

into marital bliss. The reception continues with a beach BBQ dinner at sunset, an ideal time for the couple to scribe wedding wishes into a coconut husk, which is thrown into the ocean for perpetuity. Angsana Velavaru resort serves romance and adventure in equal measures combining a tropical lifestyle with the comforts of modern living, perfect for an idyllic honeymoon!

Book it!

Price for a wedding ceremony starts from £408 per couple. www.angsana.com

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22151

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The Caribbean’s premier All-Inclusive experience for your wedding, honeymoon or simply discovering each other again.

Perfect.

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Your holiday package includes FREE ~ Water skiing with professional instruction ~ Scuba Diving with professional instruction ~ Windsurfing with professional instruction ~ Tennis with professional instruction ~ 24hour gourmet dining ~ Premium brand drinks ~ Golf (18holes) ~ Selection of off–site excursions ~ Weddings* *Mandatory $250 for marriage license

Reservations 020 7749 9285 Information & brochures 01582 794 420 www.couplesresorts.co.uk

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Wild & Intimate

South Africa’s Kwandwe Private Game Reserve has introduced a Wedding Package for small, intimate weddings. This luxury package includes an on-site wedding coordinator, Celebration Banquet and a Bridal Breakfast, a cake, alcoholic and soft drinks, bubbly upon arrival, romantic turndown, spa pampering and a private game drive.

Accommodation is at one of the two safari villas, Melton Manor – a contemporary four-suite farmhouse and Uplands Homestead – a traditional restored farmhouse. The bridal couple can get married as well as dine at a number of outdoor locations surrounded by nature and wildlife – including on a ridge with spectacular views of the

reserve or on the floating pontoon in the dam. Alternatively they can marry at Kwandwe’s picturesque private chapel or enjoy a festive feast on the lawn of their private villa.

Book it!

The Celebration Package costs approx. £420. A minimum two-night stay is required at Melton Manor based on 8 guests sharing (approx. £165 pp per night) on full board basis, including meals, drinks and safaris.

Stress-free Turkey If you are worried that wedding nerves will get to you on your big day, then head to Turkey to marry at the luxurious Marti Hemithea hotel, where the stress of your wedding will be soothed away with a pre-wedding spa pampering session. The hotel enjoys a romantic setting in the Hisaronu Bay, facing sweeping panoramas of Turkey’s Aegean coast. Each of the Marti Hemithea’s 30 suites overlook the calming waters of the bay, making it a soothing haven for couples to escape. You can choose a ceremony within the rustic ruins of the hotel’s byzantine church surrounded by bougainvillea or on the Mistral Deck overlooking the Aegean, whilst all the arrangements are taken care of by the hotel’s wedding co-ordinator. The pre-ceremony pampering begins with a yoga and meditation class followed by a Couple’s Spa Ritual, which includes a manicure and pedicure for the bride and a manicure for the groom. After the wedding, the couple return to their room to be pampered further with an invigorating Jacuzzi and sumptuous king bed sprinkled with rose petals.

Book it!

Nightly rates start from £217 B&B based on two sharing a Superior Room. The Marti Hemithea Luxury Wedding Package costs £3,500 including 3 nights’ accommodation. www.martihemitheahotel.com

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Picnic in Rio

For the honeymoon of a lifetime, you can’t beat a wow-factor trip to the worldfamous Belmond Copacabana Palace hotel in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where couples can now enjoy a private sunrise picnic breakfast, prepared by the hotel, at the iconic statue Christ the Redeemer – one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. In a once-in-a-lifetime experience, couples will journey to the 2,296 ft. peak of Corcovado Mountain where they can marvel at the famous 125ft statue of Jesus Christ at dawn, before it opens to the public, and watch in awe as the sun rises over the city. Perched on the edge of the legendary Copacabana Beach, the glamorous Belmond Copacabana Palace is a landmark in its own right. It boasts a magnificent pool, six ultra-luxurious penthouse suites and gourmet restaurants.

It also hosts a spectacular yearly ball during the Rio Carnival.

Book it!

The sunrise picnic is priced from £167 per person for groups 4-10. Couples can book it exclusively from £666 per couple.

Superior City View Rooms at Belmond Copacabana Palace are priced from £317 per night B&B. www.belmond.com.

Beach weddings at Outrigger

Imagine your wedding on the absolute beachfront of Mauritius, on powder-white sand adjacent to calm seawaters protected by a coral lagoon. Now your dreams can come true! Here’s how. The newly opened Outrigger Mauritius Beach Resort has launched a Wedding Package, which offers couples many features to ensure they have the perfect day, including a dedicated wedding coordinator to make sure everything goes smoothly. Highlights include dressing assistance for the bride, bridal bouquet, decorated wedding arch and Champagne. On the evening of the wedding, the couple will enjoy a five-course dinner at The Plantation Club or a massage at the Navasana Spa. Breakfast is

served in the couple’s room the morning after their wedding.

Throughout their stay the newlyweds can enjoy a wine and cheese tasting in the wine cellar with the sommelier, a rum tasting, and access to the sauna, Hammam, and Jacuzzi in the Navasana Spa.

Book it!

Full details of the Wedding Package is available on request from frederick.chelin@outrigger-mu.com. www.outriggermauritius.com

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Flying safaris Honeymoons should be the trip of a lifetime, so don’t play safe with the popular honeymoon spots, discover the planet’s remote and wild places and explore territory that is usually too difficult to reach. Specialist tour operator Steppes Travel designs innovative tailor-made itineraries for ‘off the beaten track’ trips. One of the exceptional trips on offer is Botswana: Okavango Delta by Helicopter (10th March, 9th April and 19th May 2015). This amazing trip goes to the heart of the action with a sensational perspective of the Okavango Delta from a private helicopter. From the air, the sheer scale of the floodplains is magnificent and areas inaccessible by land are fully exposed. With the option of taking the side doors off the helicopter, this trip is perfect for enthusiastic photographers and for couples that want an exhilarating honeymoon that is literally off the beaten track. The trip also includes exploring the Delta by glass-bottomed mokoro boat.

Book it!

Nine days from £3,995 per person including international flights. Other flying safaris in Steppes Travel’s portfolio include the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Kimberley & Top End in Australia and British Colombia. www.steppestravel.co.uk

Gourmet delight in South Africa

Honeymoons don’t get more luxurious than a stay at Ellerman House, one of the finest addresses in South Africa. The hotel is offering newlyweds the ultimate romantic experience in the exclusive Bantry Bay, Cape Town, with stunning seafront views over the Atlantic. The iconic South African hotel showcases some of the finest accommodation, cuisine, exclusive wine from its own Wine Gallery, sublime spa treatments and leisure facilities, not to mention the exceptional collection of art exhibited throughout the hotel. Honeymooners can stay in the gorgeous rooms that overlook the manicured gardens, with spectacular sea views and spend those blissful first days basking in the warm South African sunshine, lounging by the solar heated lap pools and enjoying the luxurious environment and flawless service at this haven of serenity. We highly recommend that you indulge in one of the two new wine experiences on offer at Ellerman House – the Wine & Tapas Experience and the Dom Pérignon Experience.

Book it!

Ellerman House Exclusive Honeymoon Offer: Stay a minimum 4 nights in a Deluxe Room category or higher and receive 20% discount if booked more than 6 months prior to arrival. www.ellermanhouse.co.za.

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We’re loving...

The white time And the bride wore white, with this stunning timepiece from the Jorg Gray collection. The chic JG1400-12 has a silver-plated bezel and display and moonshape date display. A must-have for brides! Price £250 www.jorggray.co.uk

Wedding selfies!

We’ve all been there, you gather friends and family for that wedding group selfie, you are reaching for that button and, oops! You’ve cropped yourself off the shot! You need a Click Stick! This smartphone monopod is integrated with a button, so you can remotely take photos. Simply plug your Smartphone into the socket, then strike a pose and click the stick. Price £19.99 www.menkind.co.uk

Pretty post box

This Vintage Lace Wedding Post Box Birdcage in heavy card is a fabulous place for dropping cards in - a truly romantic post box! Comes complete with a Mr & Mrs sign to place on the front of the birdcage. It is packed flat and simple to put together. Size 40cm x 33cm x 33cm when assembled. Price £12.99 www.gingerray.co.uk

Don’t leave home without...

Hair smoother For beautiful, smooth, glossy hair on your wedding day, the new L'Kerabelle range offers a powerful formula to banish frizz and damaged ends, leaving hair looking stunning and healthy with plenty of bounce. The L'Kerabelle repairs the protective keratin layer around every hair shaft and gives an incredible hit of moisture while smoothing out hair for up to 4 months. L'Kerabelle Keratin Shampoo and Conditioner, 300ml from £12.75

Curl up!

Transform your hair to glamorous curls on your wedding day with a Sleep-In Rollers set of Wedding Rollers. They are designed to flatten like a sponge, enabling you to sleep with your rollers in, so you wake with perfect curls, volume and bouncy tresses. The Rollers come in a stylish, re-useable white tote bag along with a DVD tutorial and hair grips. Price from £17.95 for a set of 20 www.sleepinrollers.com

Miracle Serum Rajeunir Moisture Serum is an amazing beauty product, which eliminates the need for a separate day moisturiser, night moisturiser, serum, eye cream and primer – this super-serum provides all the benefits in just one pot, so you can travel light! Using ‘thin-film’ technology and seven active ingredients, known as ‘The Magnificent Seven’, the serum is instantly absorbed into the deeper layers of the skin, leaving it smooth and hydrated all day long. Price £42 www.rajeunir.co.uk

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Raise a glass!

Add a fun element to your wedding table with these unique Diamond Glasses, fashioned to look like a diamond, at an angle, which allows you to rotate the glass to enjoy the full bodied flavour of your drink! Made from strong borosilicate glass, this novel tumbler looks beautiful on a dinner table and is the perfect gift for whiskey, scotch or brandy lovers. Set of two in a classy gift box (£19.99) or in a case of 12 (£109.99) www.drinkstuff.com

Sri Lanka Marry in a blaze of colour!

Thrill your guests with a colourful Buddhist-style wedding in Sri Lanka that embraces the local culture in a truly meaningful ceremony, set against a stunningly beautiful backdrop 20 www.BridesAbroad.tv

A world of possibilities await couples choosing to say “I do” at destination weddings across the globe, however, if you are looking for the wow-factor, then a traditional Poruwa wedding celebration in Sri Lanka has to rank as one of the world’s most magical ways to begin married life.

And it’s not just during the wedding ceremony that you will be honoured with charming tradition – after the service your wedding transport will be aboard an elephant, which has been colourfully decorated and represents a symbol of good fortune for the newlyweds. Your day will then be filled with traditional dancers and musicians to ensure that you celebrate in style.

Sri Lanka is a tropical island at the toe of India, with mystical cities, thick jungles, tea plantations, miles of soft sandy beaches and the brilliant bluke hues of the Indian Ocean making it one of the most scenically interesting islands in the world. For those seeking a picture-perfect wedding destination, Sri Lanka is hard to beat.

Top 5 things to do

1 2 3 4 5

Fall in love with the baby elephants as they bathe in the river at the Pinnawala elephant orphanage.

Get an adrenaline rush at Kitulgala and have a go at white water rafting.

Be amazed by the sacred canine tooth relic of Buddha at the Buddhist Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.

Explore the ancient capital city of Anuradhapura Sacred City, with its monasteries, ruins and historical remains.

Discover the endangered flora and fauna in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka – an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Marry in Sri Lanka You can exchange your vows in a choice of stunning ceremonies – from an intimate civil wedding, just the two of you, to a flamboyant, religious ceremony with friends and family. Weddings in Sri Lanka are legally recognized in the UK, as long as you have the correct documents and are free to marry. You can have a Civil, Christian, Buddhist, Hindu or Muslim wedding and can even dress in traditional Sri Lankan wedding attire for a Sri Lankan-style Poruwa Ceremony, complete with ancient rituals, blessings and customs.

Traditional Poruwa Ceremonies The traditional Poruwa Ceremony is named after its decorated marriage platform, the Poruwa, which is prepared in accordance

coconut brings a blessing and prosperity to the marriage; The lighting of an oil lamp brings light to a new life.

A traditional Poruwa wedding package can be booked through leading tour operators.

Most couples marring in Sri Lanka have a basis of this ceremony either after their religious ceremony as a blessing or combined into a civil ceremony.

Honeymoons Sri Lanka has much to offer honeymooners, with its rich culture, breathtaking scenery and tropical climate.

The island is absolutely fascinating, with more than its fair share of top-notch sightseeing spots, and exploring it is a must. The best way to see Sri Lanka is to take a 4-5 day tour that includes accommodation and takes you on the sightseeing tour of a lifetime – from the jungles, the summit of Adams Peak and watching baby elephants bathing in the river to visiting tea plantations and white water rafting. PL Tours are offering private tours with your own driver from £450. info@travel-srilanka.eu.

with ancient rites and customs by being covered with a white cloth placed with rice, medicinal herbs, a coconut and coins to bring the couple blessing and prosperity. Oil lamps are lit on the corners of the Poruwa, which are believed to give protection from the Gods. The bride is escorted to the platform by a troupe of Kandyan drummers and dancers, then afterwards she travels on the back of an elephant.

You must send photocopies of all the documents at least three weeks prior to your arrival and you need to be resident in Sri Lanka for at least four days before the wedding. Those under 18 need parental consent with a sworn affidavit. You need the following documents:

As part of the ceremony some of the following rituals may be conducted: the couple will be asked to cast seven sets of betal leaves to the ground, which symbolizes happiness, joy and luck for the next seven generations; The couple’s fingers may be joined together and water poured over them to depict anointment of the union together; The splitting of a

Birth certificate: Valid for at least 6 months Proof of Status: affidavit signed by a solicitor stating there is no legal obligation to the marriage.

Decree of Absolute: if either of you are divorced Death Certificate: if either of you are widowed.

The Legals

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REAL WEDDINGS

BUDDHIST BEACH WEDDING Tracey and Jason's traditional Sri Lankan ceremony

When Tracey Bresgall, from Essex, made a last miute decition to go clubbing with the girls, little did she know it would be her first encounter with 'the one' – a cute smile from Jason Ackland that night was the start of a beautiful romance, followed by a gorgeous ceremony on a Sri Lankan beach, surrounded by friends and family

Finding 'the one' We met at a local nightclub, I wasn't going to go out that night, it was the day before pay day. I was visiting my dad who could hear my phone calls from my friends asking me out, so he gave me £20 to get me started. I sometimes refer to Jason as my £20 man! It was definitely love at first sight! It was his cheeky smile that did it! He later told me that he had spent all night keeping me on his left hand side so that I couldn't see a big chunck of hair he had shaved out of the right side by accident swapping over the clipper settings – he was successul, I didn't notice!

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REAL WEDDINGS The proposal He proposed at home after a family dinner. He really wanted to take me out to dinner and ask me, but I was planning my son's 21st birthday party, so kept saying no. He had been carrying my engagement ring around in his bag for over month, hidding it from me. I like koala bears, so he proposed using a lovely hugging koala teddy bear. After dinner I popped into the kitchen and when I came back he said: "What's up there?" He had placed the koala on the bookshelf. I reached up for it and when I turned around Jason had got down on one knee to propose and the koala was holding the ring. It was totally unexpected as we had talked about it, but he had said that there was too much going on, and we couldn't afford it yet, but we would one day!

Location, location I've always wanted to get married abroad on the beach and Jason was happy to do that too. I liked the idea of an informal, relaxed ceremony with close family and friends, and a wonderful location for the photos – with a high chance of sun and hot weather! Our families have children and we hoped that they would want to come, so we had to chose a destination where the weather would be good during the school summer holidays, as this was the time of year we were looking at. Most places I wanted would have their rainy season around that time, as I was looking at further a field. It also

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had to be good value for money so that everyone could afford it. After some research Sri Lanka looked like the perfect place. Culturally it would be an experience and there were trips and excursions for our guests to go on if they wanted to, so plenty for everyone!

The planning We had the services of Fred Harrison from Tropical Sky as our personnel wedding planner in the UK. He answered all our questions and helped pre-arrange everything for our wedding, including all the paperwork. We also had Rishinin as our wedding planner at our hotel, the Club Hotel Dolphin, Negombo in Sri Lanka.

Tropical Sky did all the travel arrangements for the wedding party and Lynn Delgao was our contact for the group – she did a very good job juggling the requests of the party! Rishini then took over when we arrived in Sri Lanka to confirm our arrangements and show us the options for our ceremony. There were a number of locations to choose from but we wanted the beach! We also met the chef to select our menu and the photographer who discussed the types of photos we wanted. Then for the actual ceremony, we had to choose what we wanted to be included, i.e. elephant rides, dancers etc.

The guests We had 43 family and friends celebrate our wedding with us. Everyone stayed in the same hotel, the Club Hotel Dolphin, Negombo. Most people accepted our invitation, although there were some friends who could not make it.

Getting the look The wedding dress – my perfect dress – was from the Justin Alexander Sincerity range, style 3791 and was totally stunning. It had beautiful detail on it and fitted me perfectly. It had to be light weight to travel on the airplane. The colour theme of the wedding was red and cream, because when I thought of Sri Lanka, my image was of sunset colours, burnt oranges, yellows and reds. My assessories where from Blossom and included a beautiful matching ivory pearl and crystal side tiara, necklace, bracklet and earings. Our wedding rings matched – we had them both made from the same mixed metals. The beautician at the resort did my hair and make-up, she did a really good job, which was a relief as there was no test run!

Something old, something new?

My Something Old, Borrowed and Blue was a blue garter which a good friend and my sister had both worn and passed along. My Something New was my dress and jewellery.

Groom & bridesmaids Jason wore a lovely smart taupe coloured Ted Baker suit. The three bridesmaids outfits where bought from Coast, they were long, strapless and fitted in a bold red colour, which looked amazing on the girls and was great in the photos and it was perfect for Sri Lanka. For the two younger bridesmaids, I choose beautiful glittery ivory dress from Monsoon, these also looked stunning on both the girls.

The details We chose vibrant colours as our theme and also butterfies that were included in the name places and children's favours. I chose white frangipani bouquets once we arrived at the resort, which were beautiful and had a wonerful scent. The bridesmaids had red mixed in with theirs and the groom and groomsmen had frangipani for their buttonholes. The cake was also provided by the resort on the day. I also had a lovely cake for our wedding party back home, which was made for me by my cousin in the shape of an elephant – and the colours matched the elephant I rode on my wedding day!

The ceremony Our wedding took place on the beach front at the hotel resort. We chose a Buddihust Poruwa ceremony that lasted around 30 minutes. We were married by a priest and my dad and my son gave me away. I know I keep saying perfect, but my wedding really was perfect!

Local customs and rituals There were lots rituals included in our wedding, which really made the ceremony special. We opted to experience them all.

We were lead out separately by Kandyan dancers to the Poruwa, which is a traditionally decorated platform. Jason was lead out first, and once he arrived there, the dances came back for me and it was my turn. We stepped onto the stand and were given betel leaf bundles, which we offered to the gods for protection for the lives of seven generations that come from the marriage.

Our little fingers were then tied together to

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REAL WEDDINGS symbolize bond and unity and holy water was poured over them. The priest then performed the blessing ceremony as two girls sung and blessed the marriage with 'Jayamangala Gatha' chant. A coconut was then broken in front of us to drive away evil spirits. After that we were lead to the registrar for the legal formalities.

We were now married and had big smiles on our faces! The priest lead us to another area where we lit a traditional oil lamp which was decorated with flowers, this is to signify our resolve to keep the home fires burning and a bright future.

We cut our cake, and then had a toast with Champagne, sitting on a beautifully decorated couch to watch Kandyan dancers perform. Our guests where seated on chairs either side of us. Then we had fun riding an elephant along the beach! It was an amazing ceremony, vibrant and lots of fun.

children. Our First Dance was to Ellie Goulding: How long will I love you? The meal and speeches took longer than expected and we got to the hotel nightclub quite late and had a wonderful time dancing until it closed at 2am!

Photographic memories We hired the hotel photographer and videographer. I have to say I was not expecting them to be very good and was totally surprised and impressed by the images and the quality of both. The photo

Magic moments Our best memory was saying our vowels and becoming husband and wife! The funniest was sitting like Posh and Becks on a red couch with the lovely decorated flowers, watching the dancers. It was surreal. Also climbing on the elephant in my wedding dress and trying to make it look elegant, and then seeing the look on Jason's face as he tried to hold on for dear life!

Any disasters?

Almost, I miscalculated how many bridesmaids bouquets I needed and was one short. The hotel wedding planners helped to create a new one by taking a few flowers from each of the ones I already had, so we were saved!

On budget?

The reception The reception was held on the beach, just a little way from the hotel bar and restaurant. The food was lovely, we opted for a seafood gala meal – smoked salmon starter, main meal was spicy prawns and lobster or steak, with sobets for dessert. Everyone was impressed with the wedding food, including myself! The area was decorated prettily with fairy lights around the palm trees. I had bought clear and red crystals, which we sprinkled on the tables.

We also had red butterfly table places, which my bridesmaids helped to put in the right seating positions. Not forgetting the favours for everyone – silver almonds for the adults and jelly beans for the

beach, it looks really romantic and the colours of the sky look like a storm is coming, it's very dramatic.

That's a hard one, at a guess, with all the dresses, suits, holiday, honeymoon, gifts etc, probably just a little bit over budget!

The honeymoon album was brilliant – vibrant, printed full pages in a book, we was expecting to see an album with actual photographs in them! We were given a CD of all the photographs and a video of the whole ceremony, which had been very well edited with a personalised cover. My favourite wedding photo is one of my husband and myself walking across the

For our honeymoon we went on to the Maldives. Our friends and family shared some of the honeymoon, as we were in Sri Lanka for over a week after the wedding. Guests left at different times, but a majority went when we did. We were all on the same flight back which had a stopover in the Maldives – we got off and said goodbye to our guests, which was really cool. They were all dressed to go home and we were dressed in our shorts and flip flops!

Further information: Wedding planner UK: Lynn Delgado & Fred Harrison at Tropical Sky www.tropicalsky.co.uk/weddings Telephone : 0843 636 7539

Wedding planner in Sri Lanka: Rishini Kanishka

Venue: Club Hotel Dolphin, Negombo, Sri Lanka

Photographer: Wedding Studio Sathya

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Steal Tracey’s Style

Crystal headband, £130 www.ivoryandcotiaras.co.uk

Crystal necklace, £30 www.glitzysecrets.com

For her colourful Buddhist beach wedding in Sri Lanka, Tracey cleverly mixed traditionally English ivory lace with the vibrant reds of the tropics

Crystal earrings, £24 www.glitzysecrets.com

Veil, style Sicily www.ivoryandcotiaras.co.uk

Silk bouquet, style Iruma, £94.99 www.silkblooms.co.uk

Decoration, £2.95 www.dotcomgiftshop.com

Lace shoes, style Fairydust, £695 www.freyarose.com

Bridesmaid dress, style Beryl www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk

Wedding dress, style 3850 www.sinceritybridal.com

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GTL Sri Lanka.indd 28

21/12/2014 17:15

Romantic Italy

Famous for its exquisite fine art, extraordinary countryside and delicious food and wine, there are many reasons why discerning couples choose the Italian region of Tuscany to tie-the-knot 30 www.BridesAbroad.tv

The city of Florence

Tuscany is an enchanting region of Italy for many reasons – culture vultures come to view the greatest collection of art in the world, from paintings and sculpture to architectural masterpieces; others to bask in the glorious warm sunshine and explore the beautiful countryside, coastline, charming towns and historical sites and cities. Gourmets and wine buffs descend on Tuscany to indulge their palates on delicious cuisine and fine wines.

However, a growing number of couples come to get married in one of the most romantic destinations on the planet!

For honeymooners, Tuscany has so much to offer. Hire a car and discover the region – and the best place to start is the picturesque city of Florence, then continue to Siena and Pisa, with its famous Leaning Tower, and to the beautiful countryside, villages and coastal region that beg to be explored by car, on foot or mountain bike. If you intend to spend most of your time in Florence, Siena and Pisa, then the train is a good option for getting around.

One of the big attractions for weddings in Tuscany is the weather, which is mild throughout the year. The hottest months are July and August, while June and September are warm but not too hot. In winter the snow covered mountains are perfect for skiing and snowy white weddings in the pretty ski resorts.

Florence A visit to Florence is a must, with its museums, palaces, and churches that house some of the greatest art treasures in the world, including the Cathedral, the Baptistery, the Uffizi, the Bargello, and the Accademia. The churches of Santa Maria Novella and Santa Croce are veritable art galleries, and the library of San Lorenzo is a magnificent exhibition of Michelangelo’s architectural genius. Climb the hill to the church of San Miniato al Monte to experience an enchanting view of Florence.

Siena Siena is a lovely medieval city that sits over three hills around the huge central piazza del Campo, known worldwide for the famous Palio Run – a horse race run around the piazza every summer – its also featured in the James Bond movie, Quantum of Solace.The nine sections of the piazza’s fan-like brick pavement represent the council and symbolizes the Madonna’s cloak which shelters Siena.

Isle of Elba

Chianti

Maremma

Chianti area in Tuscany is famous for its exquisite wines. It is one of the most beautiful areas in the whole region, extending over the provinces of Florence and Siena. Chianti landscapes are particularly lovely, with green, gentle hills covered with vineyards and olive groves, small stone villages, characteristic parishes and countryside homes in stone – these make beautiful settings for rustic Italian weddings.

Maremma is a large area in southern Tuscany stretching between the provinces of Livorno and Grosseto offering blue sea, long beaches, black rock, hills covered with woods, marshes and flat lands, and natural thermal baths.

Maremma is rich in local produce to be tasted and savoured. Be sure to visit Saturnia, a hillside spa town overlooking thermal springs with Roman Gates, dating back to the 2nd century B.C. set within the medieval walls.

Saturnia’s thermal baths and two thermal waterfalls of warm sulphurous waters at 37.5°c offer relaxation and healing, therapeutic properties.

Elba Elba is a stunning island famous for harbouring French Emperor Napoleon in 1814 during his exile. The island offers several museums, impressive fortresses and military constructions and the Napoleonic residences such as Palazzina dei Mulini. What really makes Elba special are its clear and blue sea and stunning beaches – perfect settings for beach weddings.

Marry in Tuscany You’ll be delighted if you choose the gorgeous region of Tuscany for your destination wedding – from its romantic locations to its delicious slow food and crisp wines. Marry in one of its cultural cities filled with spectacular works of art, in a rustic church, a villa in the magnificent countryside, or on a gorgeous sandy beach.

With such a vast choice, where do you begin?

If you can’t decide, there are many good wedding planners in Tuscany and here in the UK that can help you find the perfect location and venue to suit your personal style, including wedding planner Lisa Burton of The Bridal Consultant: www.thebridalconsultants.com

Legals To ensure that all your paperwork is in place it is recommended that you arrive in Italy two working days prior to your wedding. You will need: l Valid passports l Certificate of non impediment (also knows as CNI) l Nulla Osta l Divorce papers or widow/widower papers (if applicable)

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REAL WEDDINGS

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Emma and Christopher's charming nuptials in Tuscany

School sweethearts Emma Hickmott and Christopher Thompson, from Barnet in North London celebrated 15 years together with a gorgeous wedding in the Tuscan sunshine

Finding 'the one’ We went to secondary school together and we became boyfriend and girlfriend at 16-years-old and, apart from a couple of hiatus periods, have been together ever since – 15 years this year! It was, of course, love at first sight!

The proposal He proposed to me at KoKo in Camden. We went to see a band The Guillemotts play our favourite song Made up Love Song at KoKo and went for burger and chips beforehand. I had absolutely no idea it was coming. I pride myself on generally knowing when something is going to happen before it does, however, Chris played it very cool throughout the evening.

Then when "our song" started playing I turned around to see Chris with a ring in his hand. It was pretty emotional and I was left speechless for one of the few times in my life! It was the biggest surprise of my life so far!

Location, location We initially wanted to get married quickly after the engagement, however, we couldn't decide on the format for the day. We knew we didn't want a big UK hotel wedding and so we explored Vegas, but thought this wouldn't

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REAL WEDDINGS accommodate large families of people with young children. I had never been to Italy and started to look at options there, and found details online for Lisa Burton of The Bridal Consultant wedding planners in Cheshire and from that we started to make enquiries. We visited Villa Gambassi in Tuscany for a holiday in 2012 and it was so perfect that we decided there and then that it was something we wanted to do. I booked the holiday through Lisa while I was working in the Middle East and it was so hassle free that I set my mind on the fact that I'd need the help of a wedding planner if I was going to get married abroad and keep to working the long hours I needed to pay for the wedding!

The planning We used the services of The Bridal Consultant to plan our wedding and we arranged our own travel to/from Pisa as it was the most reasonable airport to fly into, however The Bridal Consultant organised all transfers between the airport and venue for all guests that didn't rent a car. The wedding planners couldn't have done enough to help. No request was too big and they did their very best to accommodate all requests, no matter what or how late the request. We planned the majority of things before we got to Italy, although on the day before the wedding we had a meeting with the Italian planners at the venue to go through the format of the day and get clarification on the centre pieces, my bouquet, the table layout and numbers for the wedding breakfast.

The guests I think there were approximately 60 guests.

Most of them stayed at Villa Gambassi in the apartments surrounding the main villa.

A few people were put off by an overseas wedding as not everyone has the money available to spend on travelling, especially if they had already booked a family holiday and it also excludes people that have recently had a baby and the elderly, so there were a couple of friends who couldn't make it and also my nan who couldn't travel that far.

Getting the look We didn't necessarily have a colour scheme in mind, however, as we started

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looking for ideas it became apparent that our taste was more towards a vintage theme. I chose the Eden dress by Jenny Packham. I first did some extensive research over the internet to narrow down my preference to just a few dresses. The more I looked at the Jenny Packham Eden dress the more I loved it. I went to the shop with a few of my best friends, mother and mother-in-law and after trying a few other options I knew immediately that the Eden was the one! My dress was platinum in colour with a layer of silk lace and Champagne beading and sequins. I had 1920's style strappy Jimmy Choo sandals and a pearl headpiece from Donna Crain Ltd. I also wore my nan's wedding ring and a pair of diamond studs my husband bought me as a previous birthday gift. I did my own hair and make

up. I had a make up tutorial at MAC on Carnaby Street and then I bought myself a whole new make up kit and brushes. My hair was curled using heated rollers and kept loose with a hair piece inserted.

Something old, something new My Something Old and Borrowed was my late nan's wedding ring, my Something New was my dress and my Something Blue was a brooch in the style of a blue rose on a gold stem bought for me by my younger sister.

Groom & bridesmaids Chris wore a blue double breasted suit with a white shirt and silver shirt armbands. The father-of-the-bride also wore a three-piece blue suit but the colour and cut was slightly different to the grooms and the best men wore blue suits without the jacket but rather just the waistcoat and the sleeves of their shirts rolled up. All had a rusty gold tie and pocket hanky which matched some of the beading and sequins of my dress.

I had two flower girls and two page boys.

The flower girls wore long, off white dresses from Monsoon with a crocheted

top, white ballet pumps with a white corsage on them and a daisy chain headband. They each carried a small sunflower on a long stem. The page boys wore blue shorts with a matching waistcoat and white, short sleeved shirts with blue boat shoes. They also had a pocket handkerchief in the same rustic gold as the rest of the male bridal party.

with fresh cream. I had chocolate pieces in the cream and it was topped with fresh strawberries – it was divine! We had a cake topper of a man and woman, which coincidentally was in the position of a great photo we had taken together after the ceremony!

The details

The ceremony was held at Certaldo Town Hall, which is in the pedestrianized medieval part of Certaldo town in Tuscany, which is just beautiful. The locals are friendly and the town hall is perfect if you have a summer wedding as there is an open air courtyard where you can hold the ceremony with the guests standing around you. I understand there is also an indoor room if you would prefer something more formal or if there is adverse weather on the day. The service lasted around 20 minutes, which was perfect for us because the wedding was a formality and something that we wanted to do in front of our nearest and dearest, but we didn't want it to last overly long and for our guests to become restless. We were married by an Italian Registrar and Nicoletta translated, as the whole ceremony was in Italian. My father gave me away – I am the oldest of two siblings and was the first to get married, so I think it was a pretty emotional day for the whole family. We had the standard Italian service and didn't inlcude any of our own vows as we were happy with those generally used in Italy.

I wanted my wedding to have a slight vintage/dreamy feel. I also wanted my bouquet to be quite rustic using local flowers. I had small sunflowers and white roses intermixed with local wild flowers in white, yellow and a small amount of purple. The cake was a traditional Italian millefeuille, which is puff pastry layered

The ceremony

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REAL WEDDINGS

The reception The reception was held at Villa Gambassi, which is a 20 minute drive from Certaldo.

After the ceremony, guests were invited to a glass of Prosecco and canapés at a local café a short walk from the old town hall. The food was amazing and the views over the Tuscan countryside took everyone's breath away.

Once the photos were finished we then all headed back to the villa for more canapés, including a selection of local cheese and meats and Prosecco, where we got to catch up properly with our guests and relax after the ceremony.

There were a wide range of delicious Tuscan canapés presented under a lovely awning decorated with sunflowers and white draping. We sat down to dinner alfresco in the garden of the main villa while background music played. After the speeches there was a DJ who played a mixture of songs based on a list that we had provided and he was also happy to take requests on the night. The food for the Wedding Breakfast was just delicious – we had spinach and ricotta ravioli to start, followed by asparagus and parmesan risotto. For main we had veal

stew, Italian roast potatos and grilled vegetables. For desert guests ate the wedding cake. Our guests sat at six tables, three of which had a bird cage centre piece with a large candle in the middle and flowers intertwined through the cage. The other three had large bowls of water sitting on mirrors with floating mini sunflowers and candles. At the table, all adult guests were given a scratch card, which was presented in a cream and gold envelope which said "wishing you luck and love". The children were given activity packs and sweet cones.

For our First Dance we chose Fleetwood Mac I Wanna Be With You Everywhere.

Then for our Second Dance we had Hey Ho by The Lumineers. We had some dance lessons prior to the wedding and had hoped to perform fairly well, but that all went to pot after a few glasses of Prosecco and we'd both forgotten most of the steps!

Music played in the background while we ate and a DJ played music afterwards.

We felt a little guilty as guests were quite vocal all night and made requests for their favourite songs, but he didn't seem to mind and had most requests available, which is no easy feat given the wide range of requests that were thrown at him!

Photographic memories Our photographer was David Bastianoni who took some absolutely amazing pictures on the day and captured the wedding beautifully. My husband and I are very camera shy and photography has never been something we were big on – however, David was easy to talk to and managed to get some really good shots of us, despite our rigidity!I love the photo of my husband and I where he is picking me up in Certaldo Alto. Its great because this is the pose the man and woman on our cake topper were in. I also like the fact there are two locals looking on!

we stayed apart the night before and he looked so dapper in his suit! The ceremony was beautiful, we just love the traditional Italian vows which focus heavily on family and being loyal to each other.

Any disasters?

We lost the cake topper and I didn't get to walk through the Old Town as the car dropped me off at the door of the town hall, other than that everything was perfect.

On budget?

The wedding package totalled £18,000 and it was worth every penny! This doesn't include the cost of the bridal parties clothes, accessories and the children’s cost of travel, which we paid for.

To be honest it was a little over budget, but once the planning starts you get a bit carried away and the want for everything to be perfect takes priority over money!

The honeymoon After our wedding we got the train down to Sorrento and spent five days on the Amalfi coast, it was the perfect way to relax after the wedding. All friends and family either left the day after the wedding or on the same morning as us. Our train was not until mid day, so we had plenty of time to get to the station and by the time we woke up the majority of guests had already left, which meant we could escape realtively unnoticed.

Further information: Wedding planners: Lisa Burton The Bridal Consultant www.thebridalconsultants.com

Venue: Certaldo Alto Town Hall and Villa Gambassi, Italia

Photographer:

Magic moments One of my best memories was seeing Chris for the first time at the town hall, as 36 www.BridesAbroad.tv

David Bastianoni info@davidbastianoni.com www.davidbastianoni.com

Steal Emma’s Style

Annabelle Pearl hairpiece, £155 www.ivoryandcotiaras.co.uk

Headpiece, £145 www.rachelsimpsonshoes.co.uk

For her wedding in a rustic village in Tuscany, Emma chose a stylish vintage theme with pearls and beads for added glamour

Pearl necklace, £130 www.aislingwallace.com

Silk Eleanor bouquet, £74.99 www.silkblooms.co.uk Beaded bag, £29 www.accessorize.com

Cake decoration www.dotcomgiftshop.com

Hollywood shoes, £595 www.freyarose.com

GTL ITALY.indd 37

Dress, style Florence www.jennypackham.com

Rustic confetti, £3.99 www.gingerray.co.uk www.BridesAbroad.tv 37

21/12/2014 17:05

Advertising Feature

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Honeymoons l Basket of fruit, bottle of sparkling wine and Tequila in the bedroom l Romantic dinner l Superior room category (subject to availability) l Surprise gift l One wedding breakfast served in the room the first day (reservation required) *Available to all newly married couples who have been married a maximum of two months prior to arrival at the hotel, documentary proof of which should be presented and noted at the time of booking and on the airline ticket. (Minimum stay 7 nights).

Further information

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Mauritius Life's a beach!

Couples can dip their toes gently into married life on the shores of the Indian Ocean with a gorgeous barefoot beach ceremony in Mauritius

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There can be few islands as pictureperfect as Mauritius – no wonder it's one of the world's favourite destinations for blissful beach weddings, and heavenly honeymoons!

You will fall head over heals in love with this sparkling island in the southern Indian Ocean, close to southern Africa. Mauritius is a lush tropical island offering yearround sunshine, it's hot but not too hot, with a refreshing ocean breeze to cool and refresh.

For sun worshippers, Mauritius ticks all the boxes with its long coastline of palm fringed white sandy beaches lapped by the warm crystal Indian Ocean. The island is a perfect destination for lovers of all kinds of water sport – it is almost entirely surrounded by a coral reef, which is teeming with colourful marine life, making it a snorkelers and scuba diver's dream!

However, Mauritius is not just about stunning beaches. It also offers an abundance of wildlife, birds and plants and has charming towns and villages to explore – be sure to visit the shops and markets to discover the local crafts. One thing is for sure, you won't find high-rise hotels on the island to spoil the landscape – just luxurious resorts designed to blend into the natural surrounds.

TOP 5 1 2 3 4 5

THINGS TO DO

Visit the gift shops and buy a cultured pearl necklace, using pearls harvested from the sea by the locals.

Hire a moped and tour the island, visiting the hidden villages and beaches, stopping off to buy fresh fruit and produce from the villagers.

Take a boat out and swim with dolphins and watch in awe as they circle the boat.

Wander through the sugarcane fields – better still, visit L'Aventure Du Sucre – a sugar museum with its own sugarcane fields.

Enjoy a tot of Mauritian rum!

Mauritius is a secret rum paradise. An amazing variety of rum is produced in distilleries here, including white rums and premium rums matured in oak barrels for years.

Did we mention the sensational sunsets for which Mauritius is renowned? As the sun dips below the Indian Ocean you can enjoy pre-dinner cocktails followed by romantic dining al fresco in the balmy evening air. Indulge in the local specialties, including Creole, Indian and fresh seafood harvested from the sea earlier in the day.

Then dance the night away to music from local bands – the sexy local dance is called Sega, so join in if you dare!

Marry in Mauritius Mauritius offers spectacular weddings and blessings in gorgeous settings – pick from a choice of locations, from the beach to floral wedding pavilions in landscaped gardens. Most hotels in Mauritius offer Wedding Packages, which include the services of the resort's wedding planners, who will take you through every step of the planning for your big day to ensure that it is enjoyable and stress free.

Legals You will be required to send two copies of the following documents at least eight weeks before you depart the UK: l Copies of passports l Copies of birth certificates l Decree absolute (if divorced) l Deed Poll (if name has changed) l Copies of former marriage certificate if widowed and copies of former spouse's death certificate l Copies of adoption papers if applicable l Non-English documentation must be translated into English and duly stamped. l A little Mauritian red tape – if the brideto-be has been divorced in the last 10 months, she will need a Mauritian doctor's certificate of non-pregnancy.

The day before your wedding in Mauritius your wedding co-ordinator will arrange for you to be taken by car to the capital of

Port Louis with the originals of all required documentation. You will then visit four different offices: Civil Status Main Office; Attorney at Law; Supreme High Court of Mauritius and finally the Civil Status Sub Office who will confirm the time of your wedding.

Honeymoon bliss Mauritius is the perfect place to relax and soothe the soul after your wedding.

Indeed, many of the hotels offer worldclass spa facilities for you to indulge in sublime massages using natural ingredients indigenous to the island, or why not book a Couples Spa Ritual so you can be pampered together in perfect harmony! However, if you are looking for activities you can book all kinds of water sports, from sailing and windsurfing to water skiing and swimming with dolphins or play a round of golf, or tennis and an excursion to the capital of Port Louis is highly recommended.

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REAL WEDDINGS

Beach vows in

Mauritius Jana and Nick say "I do" under a floral gazebo

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A chance encounter at a 'Madness' concert led to true love for Jana Vancurova and Nick Dunford from Basingstoke. However, there was nothing 'crazy' about their choice of stunning venue when they said "I do" at a beautiful Mauritian beach resort

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REAL WEDDINGS Finding 'the one' We met at a Madness tribute concert in Bracknell. I gave my camera to Nick to take a picture of me and my friends. Nick was there with his friends. One of them jumped in our picture and they started to talk to my friends while I went to dance.

When I got back my friend Carol-Ann told Nick how lovely her single girl friend Jana is, so he needed to make sure she didn't lie. And the rest is a history. It wasn't love at first sight though!

The proposal He popped the question on the beautiful island of Grand Turk in the Caribbean in a jewellery shop. We were on a cruise and

Grand Turk was the last island we visited before returning to port. He held the ring and asked me, in front of the sales lady in the shop, if I would marry him. When I said "Yes", he said: "I'll take it". The shop assistant cried! Even though we were talking about it, I still did not expect it!

Location, location We decided to marry in Mauritius rather than the UK because of a number of factors, including the weather, the planning and thought it would be less stress. We didn't want a big wedding. We knew which date we wanted, so it narrowed down our choice of location.

We wanted a warm, sunny place. And also, the paperwork for Mauritius was easy, which made up our minds.

The planning We used the services of the wedding planner at Tropical Sky. I am not a person who enjoys planning and we wanted a (relatively) stress-free wedding. Tropical Sky were great. They did everything for us and were very helpful. Joel and Karen, the wedding co-ordinators, made the whole planning of holiday and wedding much easier. Before we went we had to get all our paperwork ready and I chose mine and my daughter's dress and the hair style I wanted – and that was all we had to do. Perfect!

The Guests We had five guests. I had my mum and my sister and Nick had his Best Man and his partner and their daughter. My mum and sister stayed with us in Maritim Hotel.

The rest stayed at the Intercontinental because there was sadly no room in our hotel. We didn't want a big wedding so we invited only two people each. It was the reason to get married abroad. We didn't offend people if we didn't invite them so it was easier to do it abroad.

Getting the look I tried lots of dresses on, however, I ended up with the one which I tried on first. It was different from any other dress I had tried – the cut, detailing, colour and fit. I loved everything about it. I didn't have any accessories, just flowers in my hair. I am not a materialistic person and I am not very keen on jewellery. I had a hairdresser

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REAL WEDDINGS to do my hair and she did a great job. I just chose the style and flowers, and I did my own make up.

Something old, something new I counted my dress as new, the rest was my sister's old garter I gave her for her wedding.

Groom & bridesmaids Nick wore a light coloured suit, wing collar shirt with formal tie and waistcoat. It was his choice. I think he regretted wearing the waist coat and jacket because it was rather hot! However, I think he looked extremely handsome and so did all my friends. I didn't have any bridesmaids but my sister was Maid of Honour. She wore a peach full length dress.

The details We didn't have a particular theme to the wedding, we just wanted a very simple wedding. I chose frangipani and white roses in my bouquet and frangipani in my hair. We didn't have any cake just cocktails!

The ceremony The ceremony took place in a gazebo on the beach at the Maritim Hotel in Mauritius. It lasted for aproximately 30 minutes and we were married by a lady registrar. Nobody gave me away, I walked myself up the aisle.

The reception We didn't have a formal reception. We will have a post wedding lunch with our family

and some friends back in the UK. However we had a wedding dinner on the evening of the wedding on the beach, which was delicious. For starter we had gravedlax of Secrechien fish with seasonal salads and reduced balsamic vinaigrette; main course was pan fried fillet fish of "Dorado" with pumpkin risotto, market vegetables and basil vinaigrette and desert was Lemon grass flavoured pinapple in a spicy sauce. Our table was by the sea on the sand. The hotel had made it special with a heart shape and candles in the sand. The table was in the middle of it. It was very magical. We had a First Dance in the gazebo just after the ceremony – our 16-month-old daughter was dancing with us. We had hired the hotel band who sung Somewhere Over The Rainbow - version by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole. As our wedding was in the afternoon we just had cocktails with our friends. We didn't have any actual entertainment laid on. The dinner was planned for us, my mum and sister but our daughter didn't go to sleep in her pram as planned so my sister ended up with her in their room and missed the dinner.

Photographic memories Our photographer was Jocelyn Fayolle. I found him online. He lives in Mauritius. He

did an amazing job and we couldn't be more happy with the pictures. He spent much more time with us than agreed and I couldn't recommend him more.

Nick's Best Men did the video on our video camcorder

Magic moments The best memory was the end of the day when it was only Nick and I on the beach.

The sun had gone down, it was getting dark and we were walking back to our room. It was just the two of us and I loved that moment.

The honeymoon After the wedding we flew to Australia for another two weeks and on our way home spent two days in Singapore.

On budget?

We were lucky because the wedding package was a part of a Special Offer by the hotel, so it didn't cost us anything.

The extras like my hairdresser, bouquet, button hole and band was £220.

We stayed in Mauritius for two weeks, so it cost us £4,500 all in for the three of us, including flights. That was right on budget!

Further information: Wedding planners UK: Karen Andrews, Tropical Sky Weddings 0843 249 5073 www.tropicalsky.co.uk/weddings

Wedding planner Mauritius: Madhavi Nuckchadee

Venue: Maritim Hotel Mauritius www.maritim.com

Photographer: Jocelyn Fayolle

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Steal

Hair comb, £45 www.rachelsimpsonshoes.co.uk

Jana’s

Style

June Ellen hair comb, £32 www.crystalfrost.co.uk

Jana dared to be different at her wedding in Mauritius, replacing the traditional white dress with a dramatic gown in a delicious shade of taupe, for a touch a drama

Konplott necklace, £68 www.konplott.com

Konplott necklace, £305 www.konplott.com Silk Kati bouquet, £64.99 www.silkblooms.co.uk

Konplott Bracelet , £37.50 www.konplott.com Heart cushion, £25 www.debenhams.co.uk

Konplott ring, £42 www.konplott.com

Lace shoes, £145 www.rachelsimpsonshoes.co.uk

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Bridal gown, style Kahlua www.ianstuart-bride.com

21/12/2014 17:13

A marriage

Made in Manhattan You've seen it in the movies, now you too can live the dream with a New York wedding fit for a star!

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Do you fancy a film star send off into married life like Carrie Bradshaw with a Sex and the City style glitzy ceremony? Or a lakeside setting in Central Park, in the romantic Ladies Pavilion you have seen so often in the movies, followed by a reception in one of New York's exclusive skyscraper restaurants with panoramic city views? Perhaps you'd prefer a floating ceremony aboard the World Yacht as it sails around Manhattan taking in the city's iconic landmarks – the possibilities for New York City weddings are endless! No wonder it is one of the most popular destinations in the world to say "I do!"

Sarah Jessica Parker on the set of 'Sex And The City' in New York Photo: Humberto Carreno/Rex Features

Typical New York couples are sassy and sophisticated, funloving and, more importantly, they know what they want out of life. They love the hustle and bustle of the city, its atmosphere and, of course, its glamour. It's the excitement that has drawn them there. So, if you are a New Yorker at heart, then ‘The City That Never Sleeps’ is the perfect place for your destination wedding – and the amazing NYC skyline promises to make an awe-inspiring backdrop to your wedding photographs.

Film city Walk through the city streets that have been the backdrop to many blockbuster films and popular TV series including Sex and the City, Friends, When Harry Met Sally and Maid in Manhattan – bump into a celebrity or two, shop in designer stores and Bloomingdales or simply enjoy a cupcake from Magnolia bakery, soak up the atmosphere and feel like Carrie Bradshaw and her ‘besties’ for a minute or two!

And when planning your New York City wedding, remember that anything goes here, with brides choosing everything from cheeky shorty dresses, 50's style vintage gowns to a traditional princess style dress and grooms opting for evening dress suit rather than the traditional wedding attire. The guests look wonderfully stylish, the air is filled with the sounds of Sinatra and the wedding also becomes a celebration of the surroundings – the most exciting city in the world! However, there is always an element of sparkle to a New York wedding – be it a luxury limousine, a vintage tram, a Champagne toast overlooking Central Park, cruising the Hudson River enjoying a romantic dinner cruise – the choice is endless, ensuring the couple and their guests always make the best of this wonderful city.

The reception is a big part of a New York wedding, with worldclass venues to choose from including Mr Big's (Sex and the City); The Cutting Room for eclectic American Cuisine and the amazing Per Se by renown chef Thomas Keller or for Gordon Ramsay admirers you can dine in one of his three eateries in the city.

All these amazing possibilities, and it doesn't have to cost the earth! Wedding Packages with leading UK tour operators start from as little as £2,000, so a dream New York wedding is certainly within your reach!

Wedding planning Liz Burton, founder of The Bridal Consultant, who has planned more than 600 weddings in NYC says "No NYC wedding is the same. Some guests visit the 'Top of the Rock' at the Rockerfeller building then head to their reception, others have a picnic in the park or even a traditional New York burger! You can go for a ride in a yellow New York cab, and one of our clients even hired a double decker red bus to take their friends and family on a tour of New York after the wedding." For expert help, ideas and advice on planning your New York wedding contact The Bridal Consultant. www.thebridalconsultant.co.uk

Legal requirements: If you want to marry in New York you must obtain a Marriage License.

The bridal couple must apply for their license by appearing together in person with valid identification, and complete their application at the Office of the City Clerk. It will be prepared while you wait, and you will take it with you when you leave.

The application consists of an affidavit, listing personal details including the couple's name, address, birthplace, date of birth, social security number (where applicable) and marital history and the couple need to make a sworn statement that there is no legal impediments to the marriage. Those who have been married before must list their prior marriages and supply their previous spouse's full name, date the divorce was granted, place the divorce was filed and take along the final divorce decree. Widows and widowers must also provide the deceased spouse's death certificate. www.BridesAbroad.tv 51

4 fab venues 1. Central Park

The most popular destination is Central Park, perfect for year round weddings! Besides being very purse friendly it really captures the essence of New York, being right in the heart of the excitement yet surrounded by acres of trees, intertwining walkways and lakes. Ladies Pavilion is the most popular location. It's right beside the famous Hernshead rock formation and the lake and is perfect for group photos with the Central Park skyline behind.

Book it! www.thebridalconsultant.co.uk

2. The View

The View is New York's only revolving rooftop restaurant and lounge, and makes a stunning wedding venue with an incredible vista. Express elevators whisk you 48 stories above New York City, where The View Restaurant offers an unparalleled dining experience – the revolving floor makes a 360° turn every hour, ensuring an ever-changing view of the New York skyline. Wedding ceremonies take place in The View Lounge on the floor above, which serves an array of cocktails and a dinner buffet until late evening.

Book it! www.tropicalsky.co.uk

3. World Yacht at Pier 81

Fancy cruising along the Hudson River, taking in Manhattan's iconic skyline and famous landmarks while you say 'I do'? Then charter one of World Yachts luxury cruises for an unforgettable wedding ceremony and exquisite reception on the water. World Yacht (www.worldyacht.com) offers lavish or affordable wedding packages customized to intimate gatherings or grand wedding affairs. The yachts offer contemporary cocktail lounges, elegant dining rooms and dance floors and lounge decks which are ideal for you and your guests to toast your wedding as the city drifts by.

Book it! www.kuoni.co.uk

4. City Hall

Couples looking to keep it simple can choose a no-frills wedding service at City Hall in heart of Manhattan followed by an intimate meal at one of New Yorks exclusive restaurants. The Manhattan Marriage Bureau got a recent multi-million pound makeover and moved to the historical City Hall (www.cityclerk.nyc.gov) with its marble and bronze design details retained from its original 1920s architecture. You can obtain your marriage license quickly and efficiently with self-serve computer kiosks and get married for just £15.

Book it! www.tropicalsky.co.uk

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REAL WEDDINGS

Vows in the

BIG APPLE

Lisa and Dave say "I do" in New York"s Central Park 54 www.BridesAbroad.tv

When Lisa Hopkins and Dave Adams, from Stock in Essex, decided to tie-the-knot, they opted out of a big white traditional wedding in the UK, and instead chose to escape to New York City for an intimate celebration with just the two of them Finding 'the one' We met through work, although we had worked together for a year before we got together, and we always got on so well. It just took us a year to get there.

The proposal He finally proposed to me in our favourite restaurant in the South of France in a beautiful town called Antibes. After we had eaten we went into the lounge bar area where a musician was playing an acoustic guitar. He began to play Tears in Heaven which is one of my favourite songs, and we were chatting about our friend's wedding in Italy, which we had been to in the June, and how wonderful it was.

Dave then asked if I would want to get married, I said "yes", and he produced the ring and said: "Will you marry me then?" I was like the Cheshire cat for the rest of the holiday! So happy! It was totally unexpected. I had no idea he had a ring or anything. Such a surprise!

Location, location We began to plan a wedding in the UK, but our guest list was up to 178 and we both just stopped and said to each other: "We are losing sight of what this is about!" It's so easy to do when you're trying to make sure everyone else would be happy with your plans – we had a moment of clarity and said "This is about us and our love for each other!" So we went about looking into other options instead of the traditional big white wedding. We knew we wanted something special, obviously, and different instead of something run of the mill. I literally typed into the Internet 'Top places to get married in the world' and after some research about the legals of where we could get married and if our marriage would still be valid in the UK – New York was decided on! We had been before in the winter and loved it, but we had never been in the summer and decided on July so we got to celebrate Independence Day while we were in NY too!

The planning We used Tropical Sky, who handled the entire wedding planning, so it was simple and easy! The team at Tropical Sky were so helpful in every way and took away all the stress. Our wedding consultant was Holly Reid. We planned the basics before we went, and our planner in NY helped us pick an iconic, really special restaurant to eat in afterwards and she booked it for us too. We stayed at the Waldorf Astoria.

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REAL WEDDINGS

The guests We didn't take any guests, we kept it just the two of us, intimate and so special and it was like we were in our own little bubble.

Luckily our families were happy and all had the attitude of "Do what makes you happy!"

Getting the look Luckily I researched what the weather was like in summer in NY – it was HOT! As it was just the two of us I opted for a plain and simple dress, I also knew I wanted knee length so I wouldn't be uncomfortable in the heat, so went in search of one. I got it from a boutique shop in London along with my shoes, a plain flower for my hair and some pearl earrings. I was wearing my great grandmothers vintage Victorian pearl necklace and paired it with the pearl earrings to match, which was my inspiration for the style of my dress. As for my hair, Dave loves it when I wear my hair down, so I simply did this myself. I had my nails, lashes and brows done by my local beautician before I went so I didn't have anything to worry about on the day, and I wore minimal make-up (I am not a huge make-up wearer and wanted to still look like my normal self in our photos). We wanted to keep everything simple with very little fuss.

Something old, something new The necklace was my Something Old and Something Borrowed, my Something New was my earrings and my Blue was Dave in his navy suit and blue tie!! My friends also got me a lucky penny and a sixpence for my shoe!

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Groom & bridesmaids Dave was dressed from head to toe in Hugo Boss, his suit was navy blue and fitted him beautifully keeping him warm in the heat, but not unbearably. He also wore the watch, which I gave to him in the morning as a wedding gift. We didn't have any bridesmaids. It was just the two of us!

The details We didn't have a theme, the less decisions we had to make, the less stress, and the more we enjoyed it! My flowers were plain cream roses, for both the bouquet and buttonhole, which were delivered in the morning before our wedding. We had dinner at a famous French restaurant called Jean George, and Orysia obviously told them it was our wedding day when she booked it as, after our meal, they brought out a chocolate congratulations cake for us!

The ceremony The ceremony was held in the Conservatory Gardens within Central Park, we got married next to a beautiful fountain under a willow tree, and romantic doesn't begin to describe it! It lasted about ten minutes. We were offered a poem to read, but we simply went for exchange of vows and rings. It was perfect. Orysia organised an Officiate called Douglas to marry us; he was an extremely nice man, putting us both at ease immediately.

The reception Our meal at Jean George was our reception – just the two of us, so romantic, and so special as it was just us together.

The food was delicious! Perfect in every way!

Photographic memories Holly & Orysia organised Lina Jung to do our photos, she was lovely and didn't make us stay too long in the heat, jumping in and out of the limo snapping action shots and making it lots of fun. We travelled around in a limo to iconic sites around NY and had some photos done all over the place. A black and white photo where we are simply walking through Times Square as an action shot is our favourite, it's so natural and our happiness naturally shines through.

On budget?

It was much less expensive than if we had a big white wedding in the UK, and we got to actually spend it with each other rather than entertaining lots of guests – and it was a lot less stressful! We didn't have a budget but were surprised that the actual ceremony, including the flowers, bouquet and buttonhole, the permit for the wedding and photography, cost just under £1,700!

The honeymoon We plan to have a separate honeymoon to somewhere exotic later on in the year over our birthdays as we both have birthdays in the same month, although we haven't booked it yet! We are still coming back down to earth from our time in NY.

Further information: Wedding planners UK Holly Reid, Tropical Sky Weddings www.tropicalsky.co.uk/weddings

Wedding planners NY Orysia Germak www.americansky.co.uk/weddings

Venue Conservatory Gardens, Central Park

Photographer Lina Jang

Accommodation Waldorf Astoria, NY www.BridesAbroad.tv 57

Steal Lisa’s Style

Flower hairclip, £45 www.rachelsimpsonshoes.co.uk Beaded hair comb, £90 www.rachelsimpsonshoes.co.uk

Silver ring pendant, £45 www.aislingwallace.com Diamond cluster earrings, £449 www.gemporia.com

For a white wedding in the Big Apple, Lisa chose a simple and chic theme, with a short, stylish dress and elegant accessories

Heart cushion, £25 www.debenhams.co.uk

Silk bouquet, style Annemarie, £99.99 www.silkblooms.co.uk

Chocolate wedding favours, £5.99 www.gettingpersonal.co.uk Beaded bag, £55 www.debenhams.co.uk

Bridal shoes, £165 www.rachelsimpsonshoes.co.uk

Dress, style Mijas www.pronovias.co.uk

Pearl table decorations, £4.99 www.gingerray.co.uk

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22/12/2014 11:08

AMORGOS The Big Blue Greek Island

Those of you who have seen the movie The Big Blue will understand why this Greek paradise is the ultimate location for your own romantic story 60 www.BridesAbroad.tv

The gorgeous Greek Island of Amorgos is one of the most beautiful in the Aegean Sea. It nestles close to the popular islands of Lo Naxos and Ios, on the southern side of the Cyclades, and boasts traditional architecture, fabulous beaches and harmony with nature. No surprises then that the island inspired the filmmaker Luc Besson to shoot scenes of the movie The Big Blue on the beach of Agia Anna.

Landmarks and villages Strolling around Amorgos will bring you to abandoned churches, hilltops with breathtaking views of the Aegean, authentic villages and secluded beaches. With its long history, stretching back to 5000 BC, locals have carefully preserved this part of the Aegean Sea, which can be seen with one of the best-known landmarks on Amorgos – the spectacular Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, which was built around the year 812 AD to protect a religious icon from intruders, on a cliffside with breathtaking ocean views.

You will also be enchanted by the charming white villages, which are rich in culture and tradition. Chora is the capital village, situated 400 meters above the sea and offering panoramic sea views. It has a labyrinth of narrow alleys to explore with pretty churches and traditional Greek taverns – and did we mention the beautiful sunsets? Aegialis and Katapola are the island's two other main villages, which are also popular holiday and honeymoon destinations.

Beautiful beaches Amorgos is famous for its lovely beaches lapped by warm, crystal clear waters in amazing hues of azure blue and turquoise. Agia Anna and Agios Pavlos are gorgeous beaches, however there are 19 stunning beaches on the island to choose from, of which the most popular are Katapola and Aegialis. However, if you are looking for peaceful seclusion you can discover delightful beaches and coves that can be only accessed on foot. Nudism is frequently practiced on some Amorgos beaches that are ideal for total privacy! Whilst on the island, you can discover The Big Blue for yourself and go diving – the coastline of Amorgos is surrounded by old wrecks and interesting reefs just begging to be explored!

Marry in Amorgos The Greek Island of Amorgos is an excellent choice for weddings, with its perfect climate

and choice of beautiful venues with scenic backdrops – from natural landscape and green olive groves to stunning sandy beaches.

Amorgos is a year-round destination with mild winters and plenty of sunshine throughout the year, and if you choose to marry in spring, an abundance of flowers and herbs will create a blaze of colour for your wedding.

Marriages in Amorgos are legally recognized in the UK, so you can have both religious and civil weddings at a venue of your choice – including one of the pretty local churches and chapels where you can arrive by donkey, and celebrate into the night in traditional Greek style with hours of merry-making! Or choose a barefoot beach ceremony and say "I do" as you stand in the warm waters of the Aegean

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THINGS TO DO

Head down to Agia Anna beach where the The Big Blue was filmed, take your video camera and be a star in your own movie!

Go skinny-dipping on a nudist beach – we dare you!

Dine at a delightful Greek Tavern in one of the charming white-washed villages Gaze in awe at the cliffside monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa – it's over 1,000 years old!

Dive into the Big Blue Aegean Sea and discover for yourself why the famous film was such a box office hit!

Sea at sunset. If you prefer you can hold your wedding by the hotel pool – wedding packages are available at the luxurious 5-star Aegialis Hotel & Spa (www.amorgos-aegialis.com), where you can dance the night away after your ceremony accompanied by local musicians on the violin and bouzouki around the hotel pool and terraces.

Legals You will need the following documents for your wedding ceremony in Amorgos: Civil Ceremony Full Birth Certificate l Divorce decree or Death l Certificate Certificate of No Impediment l Apostille stamp (to certify that a l document is a true copy of the original).

Change of Name or Deed Poll l Certificate (if relevant) Adoption Certificate (if relevant) l Baptism Certificate (for Catholic l or Greek Orthodox ceremonies) Document Translations l Religious Protestant Ceremony Both parties must show evidence l of Christian faith and baptism Certificate from their Pastor for a l series of pre-marital counseling sessions.

One of the parties must be of l Protestant faith.

Two witnesses must be in l attendance Roman Catholic Ceremony Catholic weddings can only be performed if the bride and groom were not previously married, either the bride or the groom must be Catholic and both must be baptized. Each couple must provide certificates of Baptism, Confirmation and Freedom to Marry.

After the wedding After the ceremony the couple have a legal obligation to register the wedding at the local council within 40 days, failure to do so will result in the marriage having no validity. Your Marriage Certificate will be issued in Greek, so you will be required to have it translated into English. Your original documents will be kept as records in the mayor's office. www.BridesAbroad.tv 61

REAL WEDDINGS

AMOUR IN

AMORGOS Nelli and Maximilian’s Greek wedding afloat

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Its not just British couples that are travelling around the world to tie the knot. Nelli Varga and Maximilian Estrada from Stockholm have spread their love around the world – from their first meeting in Hungary, to their marriage proposal in Argentina and finally their gorgeous wedding ceremony in Greece

Finding 'the one' We met in Budapest, Hungary. We were working at the same place and one evening there was an after work gettogether and there we started talking. It was more like curiosity at first sight than love at first sight – but I definitely fell for his eyes at first sight!

The proposal We were out for dinner on New Years Eve in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and between

the dessert and the fireworks he confessed his ever-growing love for me and showed me a ring. Even though we had talked about taking the next step at some point in life, he took me by surprise!

occasions before and we loved it. The nature, the sea, the ambiance was just perfect for us!

Location, location

When we decided to get married on Amorgos it was obvious that we would need help. We had some ideas on how we wanted to get married, then we approached Aegialis Hotel and Spa, since they offered different packages which would match our wishes. We organized the travel ourselves, then the owner of the

We realized that it was complicated to get all friends and families together within a couple of months, so we decided to escape abroad instead and have a family gathering at home in the future.

We had been to Amorgos on two

The planning

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REAL WEDDINGS Aegialis Hotel and Spa took care of all the arrangements, including paperwork and translations. We already had an idea how we wanted the wedding to be and the hotel made sure it would happen.

The guests We decided that our wedding should just be the two of us.

Getting the look I wanted to have a Greek inspired, light, floaty gown to match the location. Finally I chose a wedding dress from a Swedish designer, Malina. It was just the perfect dress, beautiful lace and silk, very light and airy and easy to pack, even in the hand luggage. My mother-in-law lent me a golden necklace with the matching

earrings, to have something borrowed.

And a hand-crafted silver ring, made by an Amorgian jewellery designer.

Something old, something new My Something Old and Borrowed was the necklace and earrings from my mother-inlaw, Something New the silver ring which I got from my husband-to-be a few days earlier and Blue – well, the sea!!

Groom & bridesmaids Maximilian wore white linen trousers, dark blue shirt and blue shoes.

The details Our theme was to get married on a boat by the sea at sunset. The hotel provided

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my wedding bouquet, perfectly suited my dress and accessories.

The ceremony The hotel arranged and decorated a boat ready for our wedding ceremony.

We spent around an hour on the boat for our beautiful ceremony during which we both received an olive branch wreath, which was connected by a white strip – this represented a symbol of our unity.

There were also two musicians with us on the boat, playing traditional Greek wedding songs.

The reception After the ceremony we went back to our hotel room, where the beautifully decorated terrace was waiting for us for our wedding dinner. We had salad, cheese, grilled fish and desert – everything was totally delicious. Again, the hotel took

care of our table decorations and did this beautifully with our favourite colours: blue and white. We dined on the terrace in the evening, by moon and candle light.

Photographic memories The hotel arranged the photographer as well who came out with us on the boat to photograph our ceremony. Earlier in the day, when we signed the papers in the town hall, the witnesses also took some pictures

Magic moments It is hard to pick the best memory since the whole wedding felt like being in a happy bubble. But one of the sweetest memories is definitely the exchange of the rings. I also found it quite charming that the captain drove around the bay a few times and sounded the horn of the boat – I was very proud.

On budget?

Including the outfits, the travelling, paperwork and all the fees at the hotel, and a honeymoon in Amorgos, I think we paid about ÂŁ3,980. We were on budget, the costs were known from the very beginning and there were no surprises!

Further information: Wedding planner: Irene Giannakopoulos Aegialis Hotel & Spa www.greek-weddings.com www.amorgos-aegialis.com

Venue: Fishing boat at the port of Aegialis

Photographer: Organized by Aegialis hotel and (Maria Theologitou)

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Steal

Nelli’s

Style

Silver starfish pendant, £200 www.tiffany.co.uk

Nelli chose a gorgeous blend of natural, nautical and Greek goddess for her wedding afloat set against the sparkling blue Aegean Sea

Octopus broach. www.tiffany.co.uk

Ring, £70 www.follifollie.co.uk

Silk flower bouquet, £89.99 www.silkblooms.co.uk

Jazz Bracelet, £13,100 www.tiffay.co.uk

Starfish sandals, £76 www.aspiga.com

Dress by Mori Lee, style 6783 www.morilee.com

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Dream Days Weddings Malta – Perfectly Planned, Remembered Forever… www.dream-days.com l weddings@dream-days.com l +356 99627899

LET IT SNOW!

Are you dreaming of a white wedding? If the idea of marrying on a tropical beach doesn't appeal, then be a Snow Queen and have a cool white wedding in a winter wonderland – from snowy mountain peaks to the Arctic Circle You don't need to be a ski enthusiast to marry at the summit of a snow-covered mountain, though if you are, it is the perfect way to say 'I do'. You may prefer a pretty church in a picture-perfect Alpine village. Alternatively, why not wow your guests in an amazing ICE HOTEL in

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Sweden or Canada or treat them to an awesome display of the Northern Lights in Iceland, Finland or Norway. The possibilities are endless, and it's the perfect solution for the winter months – especially if you have been dreaming of a white wedding in every sense of the word!

Stunning Alpine peaks If you want to feel literally at the top of the world when you marry then head to the mountains for the wedding of your dreams – perfect for ski enthusiasts and those wanting fresh mountain air and spectacular views on their Big Day.

French Alps The picturesque Alpine town of Morzine, in the heart of the vast Portes du Soleil ski area, makes the perfect setting for Alpine weddings in both winter and summer, and where better to hold your wedding ceremony than Chilly Powder, a charming hotel made up of three beautifully appointed, romantic chalets. Weddings at Chilly Powder can take place at a number of locations – on the hotel’s outdoor terrace and large grassy/snow covered lawn or cosily tucked inside the main Chalet Le Plan des Rochers around the large fireplace, in the bar, dining room or library – with the stunning mountains as a back drop, what more could you want for your special day?

The hotel’s team will help you with all the arrangements – marquee hire, ceremony, registration of documents, flowers, decorations, music, cake, photographs and airport transfers for you and your guests, and, of course, delicious cuisine – from Hog Roasts to hearty five-course dinners for you and your guests. The hotel also offers a wedding room with gorgeous four-poster bed and Jacuzzi for couples. The town of Morzine is a popular ski resort and an ideal choice for couples who are winter sports enthusiasts – the pistes descend straight into the back garden of the Chilly Powder chalets, providing ski-in-ski out access to the mountains.

Book it!

For further details email: info@chillypowder.com www.chillypowder.com

Austrian Alps Tie the knot in the Austrian Alps and choose a mountain top blessing for a breathtaking backdrop for your wedding photographs. If you have 20 or more guests you can hire a decorated cable car exclusively for your wedding party through wedding planners Austrian Wedding, which includes a sparkling wine toast. On arrival on the mountain you will have a traditional Austrian snack including local meats, cheeses, breads and salads. There is also an opportunity, by special request, to hire a local Austrian band to entertain your wedding party. Alternatively weddings can be arranged in a fairytale castle, an 18th century farmhouse or a pretty Alpine hotel. Immediately after your ceremony you can take a sleigh ride through the beautiful winter landscape. For something a little cosier, say “I do” in the 4-star family-run SportKristall hotel, which is offering exclusive wedding packages. The hotel nestles in natural surroundings close to the ski lifts in the picturesque village of Kaprun, and is a truly charming place to host your wedding.

Book it!

Check out the SportKristall hotel’s winter wedding packages: www.sport-kristall.at Or visit www.austrian-wedding.com www.BridesAbroad.tv 69

Awesome Northern Lights You won't need to pay for a firework display to wow your guests if you are lucky enough to see the Aurora Borealis – when Mother Nature lights the sky with her own dazzling display of vibrant colours.

Magnificent Iceland Iceland is one of the best places on earth to view the Northern Lights in all their splendour and Hotel Ranga, a luxurious 4-star country hotel, set in panoramic scenery in South Iceland, is the perfect vantage point from which to view nature’s spectacle and is an idyllic place to hold your wedding. In its blissful setting on the banks of the River Ranga, the hotel is just an hour away from Reykjavik and is surrounded by Iceland’s famous landmarks including volcano Mt Hekla and several glaciers. The hotel offers a choice of locations for your ceremony, including a pretty nearby church, and two stunning waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skogarfoss. Alternatively you can exchange your vows at Hotel Ranga, either at an indoor location or outside on the banks of the River Ranga. If you are not lucky enough to witness the incredible spectacle of Iceland’s magnificent Northern Lights, you will still have an unforgettable wedding in a gorgeous setting.

Book it!

Hotel Ranga’s wedding co-ordinator will help you plan your wedding and you and your guests can choose from a variety of accommodation in the 51-room hotel at special discounted rates. www.hotelranga.is

Enchanting Ice Hotels Chilled couples will have the coolest of all weddings if they opt for an ICE HOTEL, where they can treat their guests to a warm welcome in sub-zero temperatures and enjoy an incredible setting that will ensure their wedding day is truly unforgettable!

Icy Quebec For the coolest wedding in Canada, enter a magical world where snow and ice are transformed between January and March into fabulous decors with towering snow archways and crystal ice sculptures standing by the warmth of a roaring fire. North America’s only Ice Hotel has made its name for its amazing architecture and artistry, which ensures an incredible backdrop to wedding photographs, as well as offering warm hospitality. Couples can have a spectacular ceremony in the beauty and splendour of the Hotel de Glace chapel, where the décor changes every winter, as it melts and is rebuilt for the next season. Pull up to the chapel in a horse drawn carriage and walk down the aisle on a red carpet to the altar or renew your marriage vows under a hail of fireworks.

Book it!

Prices for wedding packages start from £1,513. www.hoteldeglace-canada.com 70 www.BridesAbroad.tv

Your Wedding in the

French Alps Take your vows amidst breathtaking scenery in summer or winter!

Invite your friends and family to stay for any number of nights in relaxing and homely surroundings. Turn a special day into a special few days, so you can spend some quality time with the people that matter to you most.

Delicious world cuisine Friendly and professional staff Organized activities and excursions Hotel Au Coin du Feu Morzine, France www.chillypowder.com 0207 289 6958

REAL WEDDINGS

FRENCH ALPS "I do" in the

When Claire Thorogood from Reigate, Surrey met her old school friend Alex Neylon in their local pub, they began a romantic journey together which finally led them to the French Alps where they sealed their love with a spectacular lakeside wedding, followed by an Alpine reception at Chilly Powder, a gorgeous chalet tucked away in the mountains of Morzine

Finding ‘the one’ We met at school, although we weren’t high school sweethearts! We met when we were just eleven-years-old, but didn’t get together until over a decade later, after returning from separate trips to America. We bumped into each other in a local pub and ended up swapping stories about our American travels. We hit it off and finally got together! Although Alex was a very good looking boy at school it wasn’t love at first sight! It was more that we just had so much fun together, we always seemed to be smiling and joking.

The proposal He proposed at my bedside on the morning of my 30th birthday with a gorgeous breakfast in bed, his original plan was to ask at the top of the O2, which we had climbed the previous day, but I was happy to have my feet on the ground when he asked. I don’t know how unexpected it can be after eight years together, however, I’d never imagined that he’d ask on my birthday!

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Claire and Alex marry at a stunning ski resort www.BridesAbroad.tv 73

REAL WEDDINGS

Location, location We didn’t want a big wedding, and as Alex is an ex-ski instructor he has a true affinity for the mountains, which is why we agreed upon a summer ski resort wedding. It was our dream to get married in the mountains, but it was so important we found somewhere close to home so that all our friends and family could share our special day with us. We decided that Morzine would be the perfect location, with a quick flight to Geneva and a short drive from the airport. Having googled a lot and sending Alex on a recce when he was skiing in Morzine, Chilly Powder became an obvious choice due to its unique, picturesque location. The moment I spoke with Nick (Chilly Powder’s manager) and Francesca (Chilly Powder’s founder) I knew that I’d found the right place; they were absolutely brilliant, they had such great insight, knowledge and advice.

The planning We opted not to use a wedding planner as we wanted to stay in control of the details. However, there is a great network of wedding suppliers who are British living in Morzine and through word of mouth recommendations we found supplers easily.

Everyone was so lovely and willing to help, I mainly used Skype and email to arrange everything. We liaised directly with Chilly Powder and opted to drive (so we could take as much wedding related luggage as possible!) However most guests arranged flights directly with easyjet and then separate transfers via Powdercabs to Chilly Powder itself. Chilly Powder was excellent with all our arrangements. Francesca worked so hard to achieve the perfect day for us – she even managed to source a local wine with no added sulphates for one of our guests who is allergic to sulphates in wine; little details like that made the day really special for Alex and I, and our guests.

Most of the wedding was planned beforehand, with just a few final supplier meetings in the week building up to the big day. All of our questions and concerns were answered when we went to visit in August last year, and as the wedding drew closer Nick even gave up his time in the evenings to speak to us on Skype, which is ultimately why we chose Chilly Powder; they made us confident that they knew what they were doing and the fact that they had such a great reputation made us feel as though we were in safe hands.

The guests We took 40 guests in total. Nearly all of them stayed at Chilly Powder, although a few opted for a local self-catered chalet located close by. We obviously knew that some people wouldn’t be able to come due to the distance, but everyone we expected to come did. We compromised by having a wedding party in the UK for those who couldn’t attend. We are still so grateful that so many people did make it to celebreate with us, especially those who we knew had never travelled into the mountains before.

They weren’t sure what to expect, but the fact that they still made the effort despite this was very humbling.

Getting the look I wore a vintage style dress by Justin Alexander which I purchased at Confetti and Lace in Farnham. I wore a Jenny Packham headband but no veil as I didn’t feel it was right for the setting. My mum gave me a locket with a photo of my dad in, as he passed away a few years ago – it was lovely knowing that I had a keepsake of him on my wedding day. My bridesmaids had taken lessons from a make-up artist in the UK so they were in charge on the morning of the wedding - it made for some giggles that’s for sure! My wedding hair was done by Becky Stewart who runs a mobile hairdressing company in Morzine, aptly named ‘Seasonhairs’.

Something old, something new Something Old, Borrowed and Blue was my mother-in-law’s 74 www.BridesAbroad.tv

30-year-old garter, my Something New was my gorgeous Tiffany bracelet!

Groom & bridesmaids Alex wore a navy, slim fit three-piece suit from Topman with brown shoes. My bridesmaids word vintage style, mint green dresses with a lace top and pleated skirt from Ted Baker.

The details There wasn’t a wedding theme as such, we decided against theming it, we just wanted our wedding to be in keeping with the beautiful natural environment. It was a very hands-on wedding, with hand-crafted wood and glass jars for centre pieces, fir cones and luggage labels. We kept everything fairly simple.

For my bouquet, Sue Molony, a florist living in Morzine, selected my flowers based on my colour scheme. I wanted lots of greens and pink blushes, and so the main arch was decorated with moss with a scattering of roses and pink wild flowers. Our cake was a small single cake that was made locally by ‘Cakes in Morzine’

The ceremony Our service took place by Lake Montriond in a ceremony that lasted about 45 minutes. We were married by Independent Civil Celebrant, Kay Evans from ‘Always Number One’ and I was given away by my lovely mum. The ceremony was totally personalised to us. We’d met Kay and had several Skype chats with her, so the whole ceremony was focussed on us and our journey together.

The reception We had a selection of canapes at the lake and then our Wedding Breakfast was held at the Chilly Powder chalet, with a delicious menu that included: Ham Hock Terrine with homemade Piccalilli and crusty bread; Chicken 3-ways with seasonal vegetables; Strawberry Cheesecake followed by more canapes in the evening. For our table decorations, one of my family friends cut wood that was sourced locally to us and sawed it into slices where we placed jars with vintage lace and tea lights. Over the months I collected fir cones and we individually stamped out place names on luggage labels. As favours we had ‘A&C’ initial shortbread biscuits for the girls and lottery tickets for the men. We opted not to have a First Dance, but we did have a ‘Last Dance’ which was Hey Ho by The Lumineers, it made for a brilliant end to the evening! We had a local band perform in the evening and, as a surprise, one of Chilly Powder’s staff members did a full on breakdancing routine which was totally unexpected but seriously wowed our guests!

Photographic memories Jacquie Cutler did our photos based on a recommendation from a friend. She was fantatstic, she had lots of fun with our guests and made sure there was a balance of natural photographs of all our guests.

Magic moments One of the things we were certain of was that we didn’t want a traditional wedding, we wanted a relaxed day. One of my happiest memories was looking out to the lakeside setting when I first

arrived at the ceremony and having my soon-to-be husband take his first look and smile! The French people also loved the wedding at the lake, so many people stopped to congratulate us, which made us smile. One of the funniest memories was our Best Man Mike’s speech. It was brilliant and had us crying and laughing!

Any disasters?

The slightly ropey weather on the morning of the wedding meant that a Plan B was required as a back-up. Nick went out of his way to sort gazebos and make other arrangements for us to have the wedding at the chalet, had we not been able to make it to the lake. Luckily the weather held out, and the set-up at the lake looked amazing; something I know Francesca worked really hard to achieve. I’m a bit of a control freak, but I couldn’t believe how amazing it looked.

On budget ?

The whole wedding cost about £13,500 – It was a little over budget but only due to some of the provisional ‘wet weather back ups’.

The honeymoon We have decided to have a separate honeymoon. As lovely as it was having a week’s holiday with our family and friends, we are looking forward to our honeymoon later this year. I’m lucky enough to work for Kuoni Travel so we are soon to visit Antigua!

Further information: Venue: Chilly Powder Morzine, France www.chillypowder.com

Photographer: Jacquie Cutler

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REAL WEDDINGS

Totally chilled ceremony in

Quebec Katherine and Austin’s Ice Chapel wedding at Hotel de Glace 76 www.BridesAbroad.tv

When staff nurse Katherine Tilbrook logged on to a specialist dating website for singles employed in the uniformed services, she found true love at the touch of a button. She linked up with army captain Austin Hind, and the couple, who met in England now live in Medicine Hat, Alberta in Canada. They sealed their love in the snows of Quebec in a stunning ICE ceremony at Hotel de Glace.

Finding 'the one' We met through dating site, www.uniforms.com. It wasn't quite love at first sight – more fear we think! I met Austin at his house in Winchester, UK after emailing and talking on the phone for ages before we met. We were planning a walk together, but I think we were both very nervous (and excited) at the door being opened!

The proposal He proposed in Medicine Hat, in Canada, at the World's Biggest Tee Pee (a huge tee pee that was initially in the Calgary Olympics and got transferred to Medicine Hat), on a very cold (-18 degrees) snowy December day. He wanted to propose in the snow, as our first date involved snow! Austin still managed to get down on one knee though, in the middle of the tee pee. It was totally unexpected as we had been due to drive to Calgary and pick up Austin's sister, who was flying in that day – instead we went off in the totally opposite direction, so I was quite confused when we arrived at the teepee.

Location, location We are from the UK and now and now live in Canada, where Austin has been posted, so we decided that we would like to get married in Canada rather than the UK. As we totally love Canada, it seemed the perfect location. The Hotel de Glace is a truly beautiful location and one that is in keeping with our lifestyle. Snow was very predominant throughout our courtship, so it seemed fitting that it would be a big feature on our wedding day – first date resulted in us getting snowed in, without power in Winchester, UK! Before Austin went to Afghanistan we went to the Ice Bar in London as one of our last dates for six months before we were apart, then Austin proposed in the snow at the tee pee – so getting married in an Ice Chapel (or igloo as my family called it) seemed totally in keeping and perfect. Also, years ago, I had seen an article about the Ice Hotel in a travel magazine and I fell in love with the idea, but never imagined that getting married in Quebec would be possible – how perfect that the man I was lucky enough to marry was with me in Canada and suggested it as a venue! It was just exactly where and what we both wanted!

The planning We were very lucky to have Elisabeth, the wedding planner at the Hotel de Glace to help us organize our wedding. Although we were in the same country we were still hundreds of miles away, so having an expert on hand to help with everything was perfect. We arranged our own flights, Austin was already in Montreal with work, so I flew over on my own from Alberta and he met me in Montreal. We booked all our own accommodation. Elisabeth was very helpful with recommendations and suggestions and everything was 'in place' before we arrived.

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REAL WEDDINGS

The guests In total there were seven of us. Austin and myself, my parents flew over from the UK and we had two friends from Medicine Hat and my cousin from Florida. They stayed at the Sheraton Four Points Hotel in Quebec for the wedding. We wanted to keep our wedding small and intimate and only invited family. Unfortunately our siblings and Austin's parents couldn't make it due to the distance.

Getting the look I bought my dress from a local bridal shop in Medicine Hat called Magic Moments. It was an Alfred Angelo Disney dress based on Ariel. The concept of the dress is that when Ariel finds the man of her dreams she will cross the Seven Seas to be with him – it seemed so appropriate as I had followed Austin to Canada to be with him! I based my theme on ice/snow – so the belt on my dress had snowflakes on it, as did my bracelet and tiara. I also wore a long coat with a fur collar and cuffs. The Ice Hotel's chapel is about -5 degrees, so warm clothing was essential. Under my dress I wore a pair of white moonboots with added bling! Elisabeth, the wedding co-ordinator at the hotel recommended a hair stylist and make up artist, I met them the morning of the wedding and they were amazing. They spoke French and very little English and performed miracles on both my mother and myself, then stayed and helped me into my dress – they were like honorary bridesmaids!

Something old, something new My Something Old was a sixpence from my dad; New – my dress; Borrowed – a necklace that was an incredibly old family heirloom from my cousin; Something Blue – detail on my snowflake garter and in my tiara!

Groomed to perfection!

Austin wore two outfits! He initially got married in a tuxedo, with Sorrell Mutluck boots. To keep warm he also wore a 1964 original Guardsman's coat and a Russian-style fur hat. After the wedding ceremony he then put on his military uniform (still with warm boots), and looked very dashing and smart!

The details My theme throughout was snowflakes on my accessories and, as a wedding present to Austin, snowflake cufflinks. I had a bouquet made out of broaches and buttons in the colours of the Union Jack to keep a little piece of home with me whilst abroad.

The colours looked striking against the ice chapel and were unique. The groom, father of the bride and guests had red rose buttonholes. At the wedding we only had a small cake for the seven of us then, when we went back to the UK, we had another reception for friends and family when we had a tiered cake made of cheese.

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The honeymoon

The ceremony The ceremony was held at the Ice Chapel at the Hotel de Glace. We were married by a minister called Louis Lefrance, and my dad give me away. The service actually lasted longer than it was supposed to – probably about two and a half hours with photos – because there was a mix-up with our rings and they were forgotten! We got married with our friend's rings, and after a quick run to the hotel by my cousin, we then got re-married with our own rings being blessed! During the service we also performed a traditional rose exchanging ceremony – this means recognising the first gift of a rose being exchanged as husband and wife. It also recognises the importance of giving and receiving roses throughout the marriage, during times of both difficulty and happiness. We also had a native American blessing read in the ceremony.

The reception We had a lovely a la carte meal back at the Four Points Sheraton Hotel, then a reception was planned back in the UK at Whitemoor Farm in Devon for all our family and friends – for that we chose a very British High Tea with sandwiches, scones and clotted cream and cakes galore, followed by a Hog Roast in the evening

and the tiered cake made of cheese.

Everything was sourced locally in Devon.

We had a mixture of traditionally British bone china etc., and our little bit of Canada – Maple leaf boxes as Favours with Hersheys Kisses containing maple leaf candies, plus bunting and flags that were half Canadian and half British flags. My First Dance was Yellow by Cold Play – I had walked down the aisle to the Royal Philharmonic version in Quebec!

Photographic memories The photographer from the Hotel de Glace, Xavier, and his colleague were amazing.

They set up our video cameras and took many beautiful and fun photos. They really took the time to capture some beautiful memories. There is one particular favourite, where it looks like we are trapped in a cave, Austin is in his military uniform and we are looking into each other's eyes. I can't believe that it really is our wedding photo, it's truly beautiful, and it's just me, and my husband – the man that I love and admire.

Magic moments The best thing in the world was having a truly magical day with Austin. It was an amazingly beautiful day, including the weather; location; kindness of everyone involved; being made to feel so special; the extra time spent with the minister and photographers (because they were having fun); having hotel guests asking me if I had just got married and, of course, becoming Mrs Hind!

We kind of had three separate honeymoons!

We stayed the night of our wedding in the Hotel de Glace where, following a spa and Jacuzzi, it was into our North Face sleeping bags before getting onto our bed of ice ! We then left my parents in Quebec city in a really quirky B&B and spent two nights at a beautiful bed and breakfast in the Quebec mountains, where we went snowmobile and snow shoeing – we called this our mini-moon! Our real honeymoon was three weeks in the summer, when we drove to Alaska from Alberta and camped along the way – we drove over 8,000 km in three weeks. It was just Austin, myself and a few grizzly bears!

On budget?

We don't honestly know how much it all cost. If we include the honeymoon to Alaska and the trip back to the UK for the reception – it cost a lot! We kept within our means though, we decided on what we wanted, sourced the best options, and worked with it to ensure we didn't go overboard.

Further information: Wedding planner: Elisabeth Boudreau at Hotel de Glace

Venue: The Hotel de Glace, Quebec City, Canada

Contact: Melissa Romain 1 877 505 0423 ext.117 wedding@hoteldeglace-canada.com www.hoteldeglace-canada.com

Photographer: Xavier Dachez

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Get the look

Ice

Crystal head band, £120 www.glitzysecrets.com

Weddings

Snowflake hair band, £15 www.accessorize.com

Look like a beautiful Ice Queen whilst keeping snug and warm at your wedding in winter wonderland

Crystal bracelet, £35 www.dunelondon.com

Crystal necklace, £45 www.accessorize.com

Snowflake earrings, £15 www.accessorize.com

Snowflake necklace, £17 www.accessorize.com

Silver brooch bouquet, style Donaire, £219 www.silkblooms.co.uk

White feather bolero, £125 www.crystalfrost.co.uk

Wellington boots, £37.99 www.thewellyshop.com 80 www.BridesAbroad.tv

GTL ICE Wedding.indd 80

Wedding coat, style Olga www.justinehorrocks.co.uk

21/12/2014 17:29

Advertising Feature

Romance lives at

ROCKY'S

Advertising Feature

Sweethearts Annina and Steffen, along with daughter Lina, recently married at the fairy-tale location of Rocky's Boutique Resort, Koh Samui, Thailand. The couple celebrated, along with friends and family, with plenty of fun and a dash of theatre, creating a day for all to remember. After saying: "I do" the bride and groom kissed and daughter Lina, playing her part, announced: "And they all lived happily ever after!' After a banquet celebration, a DJ lead the way into the night, fireworks were set off from the beach and the dazzling party played on into the night.

BOOK IT! Tel +66 77 233 020 weddings@rockyresort.com www.rockyresort.com

Planning Guide

86 Weather permitting

Don't let your wedding day be a washout – check the worldwide weather guide for the sunniest beaches, snowiest peaks and perfect temperatures

90 Pop the question

Expert wedding planners answer your most frequently asked questions

92 Wedding Countdown Your 12-month wedding checklist to your big day

94 Ask the planners

Lisa Burton of the Bridal Consultant professional wedding planning service shares her wisdom and experience with brides-to-be

www.BridesAbroad.tv 85

Weather permitting

Do you want to sizzle at the hottest wedding of the year or are you a cool bride looking for a seriously chilled location?

Check out our weather guide to help you choose the perfect destination throughout the year

At a glance Best for May-October l Tahiti, Fiji and other Pacific Islands l Mauritius and Seychelles l North America l Hawaii l Canada l Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar l Europe l Queensland and Barrier Reef

Best for November-April l Caribbean l Mexico l Thailand l Australia and New Zealand l Maldives l South Africa l Dubai l European ski destinations 86 www.BridesAbroad.tv

January

February

Hot spots

Hot spots

Australia, Brazil, Caribbean, Cuba, Dubai, Hawaii, Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Thailand

Australia, Brazil, Caribbean, Cuba, Dubai, Hawaii, Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Thailand

Cool and chilled

Cool and chilled

Canada, European Alps, Iceland, Scandinavia, Iceland, USA

Canada, European Alps, Iceland, Scandinavia, USA

Something different

Something different

Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, India, Morocco, New Zealand, Sri Lanka

Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, India, Morocco, New Zealand, Sri Lanka

Jungle & Safari

Jungle & Safari

Belize, Costa Rica, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania

Belize, Costa Rica, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania

Avoid

Avoid

Alaska, Borneo

Alaska

March

April

Hot spots

Hot spots

Australia, Brazil, Caribbean, Cuba, Dubai, French Polynesia, Hawaii, Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Thailand

Australia, Brazil, Caribbean, Cuba, Dubai, French Polynesia, Greece, Hawaii, Indonesia, Mauritius, Seychelles, Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico

Cool and chilled Canada, USA, European Alps, Scandinavia, Iceland

Something different Argentina, Egypt, India, Morocco, New Zealand, Hong Kong

Jungle & Safari Belize, Borneo, Botswana, Costa Rica, Kenya, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Belize, Zambia

Cool and chilled European Alps, Scandinavia

Something different Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, India

Jungle & Safari Belize, Borneo, Botswana, Costa Rica, South Africa, Zambia

Avoid

Avoid

Alaska

Alaska, Kenya, Tanzania

www.BridesAbroad.tv 87

rg e h at ittin e Werm p

May

June

Hot spots

Hot spots

Brazil, Cyprus, Dubai, Fiji, French Polynesia, Greece, Hawaii, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mexico, Seychelles, Spain, Thailand

Cyprus, Fiji, French Polynesia, Greece, Hawaii, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, Mauritius, Seychelles, Spain, USA

Cool and chilled Alaska, Iceland

Something different Cook Islands, Egypt, Hong Kong, France, Ireland, Italy, Morocco, Morocco, Scandinavia

Jungle & Safari Belize, Borneo, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia

Avoid

Cool and chilled Alaska, New Zealand

Something different Peru, France, Scandinavia, Scotland, Ireland

Jungle & Safari Borneo, Botsana, Tanzania, Zambia

Avoid Caribbean, Cuba, Dubai, Egypt, Maldives

Caribbean, Cuba, Kenya, Maldives, Tanzania

July

August

Hot spots

Hot spots

Canada, Cyprus, Fiji, French, Polynesia, Greece, Hawaii, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mauritius, Seychelles, Spain, Italy, USA

Canada, Cyprus, Fiji, French Polynesia, Hawaii, Indonesia, Malaysia, Seychelles, Spain, Majorca, USA

Cool and chilled

Cool and chilled

Alaska, New Zealand

Alaska, New Zealand

Something different

Something different

France, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Peru, Scandinavia, Scotland, Spain

French, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Peru, Scandinavia, Scotland

Jungle & Safari

Jungle & Safari

Borneo, Botsana, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia

Borneo, Botsana, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia

Avoid

Avoid

Caribbean, Cuba, Dubai, Egypt

Beliza, Caribbean, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dubai, Egypt

88 www.BridesAbroad.tv

September

October

Hot spots

Hot spots

Australia, Brazil, Cyprus, Fiji, French Polynesia, Greece, Hawaii, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mauritius, Seychelles, Spain, USA

Australia, Brazil, Cyprus, Dubai, Fiji, French Polynesia, Greece, Hawaii, Malaysia, Mauritius, Seychelles, Spain

Cool and chilled Alaska, New Zealand

Something different Egypt, France, Hong Kong, Italy, Peru. Sri Lanka, USA

Jungle & Safari Borneo, Botswana, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia

Cool and chilled Canada, USA

Something different Egypt, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Morocco, Sri Lanka, USA

Jungle & Safari Belize, Borneo, Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, South Africa

Avoid

Avoid

Belize, Caribbean, Cuba, Costa Rica

Alaska, Belize, Caribbean, Costa Rica, Cuba

November

December

Hot spots

Hot spots

Australia, Brazil, Dubai, French Polynesia, Hawaii, Mauritius, Maldives, Mexico, Thailand

Australia, Brazil, Caribbean, Cuba, Dubai, French Polynesia, Hawaii, Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Thailand

Cool and chilled

Cool and chilled

Canada, Scandinavia, USA

Canada, European Alps, Scandinavia, USA

Something different

Something different

Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, India, Morocco, New Zealand, Sri Lamka, USA

Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, India, Morocco, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, USA

Jungle & Safari

Jungle & Safari

Belize, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania

Belize, Costa Rica, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania

Avoid

Avoid

Alaska, Borneo

Alaska, Borneo

www.BridesAbroad.tv 89

POP the Question

The facts…

Where can I get married abroad?

Where do you fancy? You name it, and you can probably get married there. Weddings can be arranged in more than 30 countries around the world, and in many different settings.

How much will it cost?

Tour operators Kuoni are destination wedding specialists. They say the average price of their destination weddings, including honeymoon, is less than £3,000 – a small cost compared to the average UK wedding! Prices vary considerably for a wedding or vow renewal package; this is paid as a supplement to your holiday package price. Some resorts offer free wedding packages, so bargain hunters should check their options with tour operators.

The legals…

Will our marriage be legally recognised in the UK? Yes. Your wedding will be registered in the country it takes place in and is completely legal under British law, so you don't need to register your marriage again when you get home.

What are the legal requirements?

They vary from country to country, but in general you must be over 20 years of age and need your British passports, original copies of your Birth Certificates and documentation regarding any previous marriages or if you are widowed or divorced. Some countries have additional costs for legalisation and translation of documents. If you book through a tour operator, such as Kuoni, Thomas Cook, Turquoise and Sandals, your dedicated wedding team will give you full details at the time of your booking.

Are there residency restrictions in some countries?

Yes, so you need to check residency restrictions with your tour operator or wedding planner. The most difficult countries are Spain (40 days residency), France (40 days) and Australia (one month and one day); however, there are no restrictions in Antigua, Jamaica or Las Vegas.

What name should I travel under?

We asked dedicated wedding planners to give us a selection of their most frequently asked questions…

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If you are getting hitched abroad you can't change the name on your passport until you return home. You must travel in your maiden name and your return airline tickets need to be in the same name as your passport or they will not be valid. Of course you can change your passport to your married name once you are back home in the UK and are in possession of your Marriage Certificate.

When will I receive my Marriage Certificate?

It will either be handed to you at the resort or sent via registered post to your home address. Don't panic if it takes a while to arrive – this is normal, especially if you marry in Jamaica where it can take up to 12 months! If you get married in certain countries, like Mexico and the Dominican Republic it will need to be translated, which will cause extra delay. For more information visit direct.gov.uk and search under passports.

The ceremony…

Can we invite guests to our wedding?

Of course! Some hotels even offer reduced rate weddings for more than four guests. Remember to order extras for your guests, such as more wine, a larger wedding cake or extra buttonholes. If the wedding couple is staying at an All Inclusive resort, they will need to buy oneday passes for guests staying at other hotels, and in adults-only resorts you will need to ask special permission for children to attend the wedding on a day pass. All this can be organised at the resort by your wedding planner.

When do I meet the resort's wedding planner?

One to three days after your arrival at your resort. Your wedding planner will sort out the fine details of your wedding, from Champagne to the icing on your cake, and check your documentation so that you can relax as the arrangements are done on your behalf. Once the local registrar is happy your paperwork is in order, your wedding planner will give you a date and time for the ceremony and send out invitations to your guests.

Where will our ceremony take place?

The hotel wedding planner will show you the locations to choose from – usually in the gardens of your hotel, or in a decorated wedding pavilion. If you are marrying in Europe you may choose to exchange vows in the local church or town hall, or in Las Vegas, a wedding chapel. The hotel wedding co-ordinator will show you the locations to choose from. It's unusual to have a ceremony on the beach, but many couples take beach photographs after the ceremony.

Who will be at the ceremony?

Most overseas weddings are civil ceremonies, in the style of registry office services, unless a religious ceremony has

been pre-arranged. The ceremony will be conducted by a Judge, Celebrant, Minister or Registrar. You will need two to four witnesses, who could be anyone from your wedding guests to people you have met on the beach the previous day. Your wedding planner will be there too, to ensure your day goes without a hitch.

The important bits…

How should I transport my wedding dress?

We recommend wedding outfits should be packed in a hard suitcase or strong box, as they will be placed in the hold of the plane. It might be an idea to contact your airline for more information. Generally, there is no extra baggage allowance for wedding outfits. You can also take out extra insurance to cover the transportation of your dress.

choice of themed weddings, which feature colour-co-ordinated cakes to match the chosen wedding palette.

Who will take care of my hair and makeup?

Every bride wants to look her best and fortunately many hotels have hair and beauty services with makeup artists on hand. Even if they don't, your wedding planner can arrange for experts to come to the hotel.

Can I arrange for a good wedding photographer?

At your pre-wedding meeting, your wedding planner will show you examples of local photographers work so that you can choose the style that suits you best.

Your video can also be arranged when you get to the resort. Photographer and DVD are usually at extra cost; they are rarely included in your wedding package.

Can I choose my flowers?

Absolutely! At the resort, your wedding planner will show you photos of bouquets for you to make a selection. Your wedding bouquet and his buttonhole are included in your wedding package, but extra flowers and buttonholes can be ordered for guests and bridesmaids.

What about the wedding dinner?

What about the music?

We want friends and family at the ceremony but can we be alone for our honeymoon?

You can request whatever music you prefer and it will be arranged for you – from a DJ playing your favourite songs to calypso bands. If you prefer you can pack a CD with your chosen musical selection, which can be played at your wedding.

Will I have a cake?

A wedding cake is included in wedding packages; this is usually a sponge cake with white icing. You can add your own decorations, and even arrange for an upgraded cake. Sandals Resorts offer a

If you have a group of guests at your wedding, a gala dinner is usually arranged as part of your wedding package. If it's just the two of you, your wedding planner will arrange a candle-lit dinner for two in a romantic location.

Absolutely. Simply ask your guests to stay at a different hotel close by, or transfer to another hotel after the ceremony.

And finally…

How can I find out more?

Speak to Brides Abroad’s Wedding Planning Team on 0800 211 8255.

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Ask the planners!

We asked Lisa Burton of The Bridal Consultant wedding planning service to answer your burning questions on planning a wedding abroad

Can we afford to wed?

Can I help?

Cool groom

I am just recently engaged and my partner and I have decided that we would love to get married abroad. We have looked at several destinations but have no idea if we can afford them.

How can we set a budget for the wedding to avoid disappointment at a later stage?

Hannah, Southampton

I’m getting married abroad next year and now that I have secured dates and booked our venue, I am feeling a little useless. Can you recommend anything I can do in the interim period to prepare for our wedding and keep me busy?

Paula, Glasgow

My hubby-to-be and his groom’s men are struggling to decide what to wear for our special day in Greece. They want to look smart but also feel cool and comfortable in the warm climate, is this possible?

Emma, Chester

Hi Paula

Hi Emma

Hi Hannah

The most important thing when setting your wedding budget is to be realistic! If you are unrealistic from the outset then this will only lead to heartache further along in the planning, when you have to compromise on details or cut down your guest list. Another important thing is to note down any savings you and your partner already have towards your special day if you have been organized, and then work out how much more you can save between now and the date you wish to get married. Lastly, ask any family members or close friends if they are willing to contribute to your wedding funds, if you are lucky they may already have a small fund set away for your wedding.

Getting married abroad is known for being relaxing, so it’s not a surprise you’re feeling a little lost at the moment. Here are a few things you could do now to get started on your plans: 1. Spread the word and send out your ‘save the dates’ so all your guests can get prepared and book time off work etc. 2. Head out and visit local wedding fairs. You may pick up some great ideas on outfits, colours, decor and entertainment 3.

Sign up to Pinterest; this is a perfect online planning tool for any bride-to-be as you can spend all day gathering and sharing wedding ideas and inspiration. 4. Register with travel companies to get all the best early deals on flights and holidays. 5. Start your healthy routine to make sure you have that perfect bridal body in time for the big day. 6. Enjoy the experience; you will spend lots of time planning your wedding and the day will come round very fast – so just enjoy it!

Contact Lisa: Do you have any questions for Lisa Burton, The Bridal Consultant?

Email your questions to: lisaburton@thebridalconsultants.com

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A smart but comfortable look is completely achievable providing that your groom considers the following things: Stay away from lots of layers! Choose a waistcoat or tailored shorts instead of a full morning suit or perhaps a pair of linen trousers to avoid melting on your big day. You also need to consider colours, although black is the obvious choice this is the colour which absorbs the heat the most, so choose a lighter colour such as cream, grey or even pastel blue.

Lastly, choosing a light fabric is not only important for the grooms comfort but also the travelling!

However you are choosing to transport your suits, you want to keep your luggage as light as possible and avoid any stubborn creases from over packing!

The Bridal Consultant is a full wedding planning service that specialises in exclusive destination weddings in New York; Costa Blanca (Spain); Cyprus; Santorini and Zakynthos (Greece). www.thebridalconsultants.com

Spa hen party Take your hens for some girly fun and pampering to Whittlebury Hall, one of the UK's favourite spas Forget the usual roaming around your local pubs and clubs with matching ‘hen t-shirts’, and instead head to Northampton for a girlybonding spa break, and be pampered from head-to-toe whilst you catch up on all the latest gossip!

and exfoliate the skin. Facilities here include a Sanarium, a Caldarium, Steam Bath, Sauna, Experience Showers, Foot Spas and a Hydrotherapy Pool. You can also book treatments in the Hammam and Rasul Chamber for mud bathing at extra cost.

Whittlebury Hall is a 4-star hotel with an award-winning Day Spa, in a peaceful, setting in the beautiful Northamptonshire countryside.

All 213 bedrooms have en-suites and are designed to offer an elegant and restful escape. However, if you wish to splash out, there are also five luxurious individually designed suites. The hotel serves delicious food and wines in three restaurants, the informal Astons and Bentleys, and fine dining in the 2AA Rosette winning Murrays at Whittlebury Hall. The hotel is located adjacent to the Silverstone track and is a favourite for racing drivers as well as spectators.

Spa treatments Once you are totally relaxed, it’s time for your spa treatment – choose from facials, body massages, exfoliations, body wraps and manicure and pedicure, and beauty treatments including leg and bikini wax, eyebrow and eyelash tinting etc. Book your treatments at the time of booking your Spa Package to ensure you get the treatments of your choice at your chosen time.

Refreshments & lunch A healthy buffet lunch is served in the Terrace Café as part of the Day Packages – but don’t be afraid to have a glass of wine over a girly lunch, nobody is judging you!

However, light refreshments and smoothies can also be purchased throughout the day.

Complimentary iced water and fresh fruit are available at all times.

Once you have checked your bags in, its time to go down to the Day Spa to be indulged!

Don’t forget to take your swimsuit down with you, and flip-flops are a good idea, although robe and slippers are provided!

From the moment you arrive in the Day Spa, into a world of relaxation and tranquillity, and step into your fluffy robe and slippers, all the worries of the world (and the stress over your wedding planning) will be soothed away. You and your favourite girls will discover all the treats that Whittlebury Day Spa has to offer – including a host of stimulating heat and Ice experiences and treatments from Clarins, Elemis, ESPA and Jessica Nails. The Day Spa has a total of 23 treatment rooms, plus a hair studio and a relaxation area with incredibly comfortable waterbeds!

Heat & Ice Experience First, to get you all into the mood is a Heat and Ice Experience, which is part of the Spa Package, and provides body sensations as a 96 www.BridesAbroad.tv

Exercise & leisure Your trip to the spa can be as relaxing or as energetic as you wish – as part of your spa package you can make full use of the Leisure Club, which includes a Technogym gymnasium, a studio offering daily exercise classes and a 19-metre pool with bubble jets and a whirlpool spa – use the pool for exercise or splashing around, or simply relax on one of the poolside loungers with a magazine or book.

Spa Packages result of changes in temperature. Move through the treatments increasing your body’s temperature before stepping into the Ice Cave to stimulate your circulation, eliminate toxins

To book online, and for full details of all Day Spa packages, Spa and Hotel breaks including all the latest offers, log onto www.whittleburyhall.co.uk

Honeymoons

98 Halkidiki – the spirit of Greece!

From remote monasteries to golden beaches and romantic resorts, Halkidiki is Greece's best-kept secret!

104 Caribbean style Choose your island, each has its own unique character, beautiful scenery and gorgeous resort hotels to suit your budget

112 Far flung destinations Take the opportunity to explore the world, away from the usual honeymoon hotspots and travel long-haul to discover delightful distant shores

118 Alpine bliss In both winter and summer, the Swiss mountains and lakes are breathtakingly beautiful – perfect for healthy and romantic honeymoons

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HALKIDIKI THE SPIRIT OF GREECE

A honeymoon in Halkidiki is good for the soul – from the deeply-religious eastern peninsular of Athos, with its ancient monasteries and extraordinary natural beauty, to the luxury holiday resorts with long sandy beaches lapped by the Aegean Sea 98 www.BridesAbroad.tv

Greece has always been a favourite holiday destination for the Brits, with its endless sunshine, beautiful coastline, whitewashed villages and a choice of resorts and hotels to suit all tastes.

However, honeymooners heading to Halkidiki, in the region of Macedonia, will discover a different side of Greece – one that is perfect for culture vultures and nature lovers as well as those seeking a wonderful beachside honeymoon.

Halkidiki, in northeast Greece, is a spiritual area that seems to have been blessed by the gods – with lush green mountains, forests, long stretches of beautiful sandy beaches and the stunning azure hues of the Aegean Sea making this an idyllic honeymoon destination. The region is rich in history with much to see, do and discover.

The geography of Halkidiki is striking and distinctive, resembling a three-pronged fork – like mythical Poseidon's trident – with the long peninsular 'legs' of land that form Halkidiki reaching out into the Aegean Sea. This area has a glorious gastronomic and cultural heritage and remains refreshingly unspoiled by tourism and development.

City of Thassaloniki Most visitors to Halkidiki will arrive into Thassaloniki airport, so a trip into this city, one of the most beautiful in Macedonia, is highly recommended. The history of Thassaloniki dates back 2,300 years, so exploring its museums, churches and archaeological sites is a must. If shopping is your thing, then head to Tsimiski Avenue, where you will find all the best shops and stores. From the city, the winding drive south to the Halkidiki coast offers lush, mountainous scenery and the flavour of authentic Greece.

Kassandra & Sithonia Once at the Halkidiki coast, you will discover that each of its three 'legs' offers its own identity.

Those seeking beaches, marinas, beach activities and holiday fun in the sun will find all they could wish for on the first of the three 'legs' – cosmopolitan Kassandra, where you'll find luxury resort hotels providing the setting and facilities for a magnificent seaside honeymoon in the sun.

The second 'leg', Sithonia, is the perfect choice for nature lovers, with its undeveloped rural beauty – here you can find secluded coves, traditional seafront guesthouses, hidden treasures and marinas, as well as unique archaeological sites.

Mount Athos The third 'leg' – the peninsular of Mount Athos, is the most intriguing. This peninsular is only partially inhabited and is the only place in Greece that is completely dedicated to Christian prayer and the worship of God. At the southernmost tip of Athos is the awe-inspiring Mount Athos, standing 2,033 metres high – its snow-capped peak is usually crowned by white clouds and is a spectacular sight.

Athos boasts the oldest surviving monastic community in the world, dating back more than a thousand years. Although it is still part of Greece, it has been divided into 20 self-governed territories, each consisting of a monastery full of priceless treasures, which is basically a commune, where monks live, work and pray together. Mount Athos is occupied solely by monks and hermits, who live in a peaceful, solitary world of isolation. It is inaccessible to visitors – with the exception of a handful of religious pilgrims who have had prior written permission from the monasteries to visit. There is also a strict rule that absolutely no women are allowed to step foot onto the land!

The village of Ouranoupolis

But all is not lost to curious tourists, who can take a four-hour boat trip from the bordering village of Ouranoupolis, and view the spectacular peninsular from the sea. From here you can clearly see the monasteries perched along its coastline – in fact, if you look closely you can even see monks going about their business. This region is completely unique – you won't find anywhere else like this in the world.

Village of Ouranoupolis Ouranoupolis, at the border of Athos, is considered to be one of the most important resorts in Halkidiki. In the souvenir shops you will find an eclectic mix of elaborate religious iconography, jewels and crucifixes on sale as well as local products such as oil, wine, honey, oregano and local tea. You can even buy your own miniature chapel! You can dine in the local beachside cafes and taverns for a leisurely lunch or to watch the sun set over the ocean. You may even find yourself rubbing shoulders with pilgrims and monks having their last supper before entering the forbidden monastic state of Mt Athos.

Monastery on Mount Athos

Sport & activity If you enjoy mountain scenery, you can spend your days exploring the paths, ideal for mountain biking and walking, which cut their way through the forests of pine, oak, fir and chestnut trees of Halkidiki. If you'd like to stay in the mountains, check out the traditional guesthouses at Holomóntas and in other areas higher up on the mountain slopes. If you prefer to have fun on the water, then the area offers plenty of watersports – windsurfing, kite-surfing, diving, water skiing, sailing and many other activities are on offer in abundance.

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BEST FOR CULTURE VULTURES

EAGLES PALACE HOTEL OURANOUPOLIS

You can blend culture, luxury and the beach at Eagles Palace Hotel, a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. This fabulous 5-star hotel enjoys an enviable location, just 4 kilometers from Ouranoupolis, overlooking the Aegean Sea and the beautiful Amouliani Island.

The resort has been sensitively designed to melt into its surroundings and offers impeccable service and breathtaking scenery – it is possible to see the peak of Mount Athos in the distance. From here, you can revive your faith and surround yourself in the mystical atmosphere of Mount Athos and feel at one with nature whilst enjoying peaceful harmony in this splendid hotel, one of the most luxurious beach resorts in Greece. Or alternatively you can ignore the surrounding culture and simply enjoy a fantastic beach holiday.

The hotel is set in extensive gardens with olive, palm and pine trees, and offers a choice of accommodation in beautifully appointed rooms, suites and bungalows, many with ocean views.

Gastronomy Eagles Palace offers a gastronomical experience in a choice of four superb restaurants serving international gourmet dishes, Greek specialities, Italian delicacies and fusion cuisine. Each restaurant has its own unique character, superb service and a beautiful setting. The hotel's buffetstyle restaurant, Melathron, offers relaxed dining and theme nights with live music and flavours from around the world; the gourmet restaurant, Kamares offers fine dining in a truly romantic candle-lit terrace setting; Armyra serves seafood in a gorgeous beach-front location and Washi, nuzzled in the fragrant hotel gardens, offers a variety of Japanese delights.

Take to the water The hotel has its own outdoor salt water floatation pool as well as a children's swimming pool, set in the blissful seclusion of tropical palm trees in the hotel grounds. Of course, if you prefer, you can swim in the crystal clear Aegean Sea right in front of the hotel. Along the hotel's Blue Flag awardwinning sandy beach you will find its water sports and scuba diving centre (PADI certified) offering a range of facilities and activities such as water skiing, scuba diving, wake boarding and boat hire.

Amouliani Island picnic One of the most fun and romantic things you can do is to hire a motor boat – just the two of you – for a half day or a day, take a picnic lunch and a bottle of bubbly and head across the calm waters to the stunningly beautiful Amouliani Island, with its variety of small creeks and coves and empty sandy beaches. Drop anchor in the turquoise bay, swim ashore and spend a splendid day soaking up the sun on a deserted beach for totally romantic bliss!

Cruise to Mt Athos Eagles Palace can arrange boat excursions from Ouranoupolis to Mount Athos to view the amazing monasteries from the sea. This is highly recommended as it gives you a much greater insight into the culture, geography and history of the region.

Spa and leisure Sublime indulgence is assured in the hotel's Eagles Spa, which offers a full range of treatments and therapies in a relaxed, tranquil environment. Whilst active rest will keep mind and body in peak condition in the Fitness Centre, with its fully-equipped gym. Or if you prefer to exercise in the great outdoors there is a tennis court and mountain bikes can be hired to explore the local countryside.

Eagles Palace can also organise guided tours and biking excursions that allow its guests to explore this divine region through winding bike trails, past scenic landscapes and verdant valleys.

Weddings What better place to celebrate a religious or civil wedding than in the spiritual setting of Eagles Palace with its views of Mount Athos, a truly magical setting. The hotel has a dedicated wedding chapel, which can also be used for Christenings and the events team will help you plan your wedding to ensure it is the best day of your life.

Book it!

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Eagles Palace Hotel and Spa Ouranoupolis, Halkidiki GR - 630 75, Greece Reservations: +30 23770 31070 T: +30 23770 31101-4, 31047-8 F: +30 23770 31383 www.eaglespalace.gr

BEST FOR SEAMLESS LUXURY SANI RESORT KASSANDRA

If you are looking for a totally relaxing honeymoon in a beautiful beachfront location, with a choice of first-class restaurants and excellent nightly entertainment, then the award-winning Sani Resort on the peninsular of Kassandra is the perfect choice.

Sani Resort is set in an ecological reserve with a yacht marina, and offers a unique holiday experience in a choice of luxury hotels and suites including: Sani Beach Hotel & Spa, Sani Beach Club, Porto Sani Village & Spa and the Sani Asterias Suites. The immaculately manicured resort boasts an array of on-site facilities to accommodate everyone, from fun-packed family holidays to romantic breaks for loved-up honeymoon couples.

Porto Sani Village Of the hotels set within Sani Resort, the best choice for honeymooners is Porto Sani Village, where its contemporary elegance ensures its luxury 5-star status. This all-suite resort is discreetly positioned on Sani Marina in the centre of the Sani Resort.

If you are looking for a professionally-managed resort, with plush accommodation in a beautiful marina location, Sani can provide the solution. All suites are oversized, most with a separate living area and either Garden or Marina views. There are also excellent facilities at the Sani Marina right on your doorstep and guests at the Porto Sani Village and Sani Asterias Suites have exclusive use of a private sandy beach. Sani Garden Theatre and Sports Complex are within easy walking distance – or you can be transported over by golf buggy if you prefer.

Gastronomy Dining is sophisticated yet relaxed at the Porto Sani Village. Guests can dine at a choice of restaurants in the hotel, including Artemis and Lagoon Restaurants and the Byblos Caviar, the latest restaurant, which boasts the world's finest caviars, served in traditional and innovative ways. When staying on Half or Full Board basis at the Porto Sani Village guests can also enjoy the extra benefits of the Dine Around Programme – this means that they can choose from a superb variety of 13 restaurants within the Sani Resort complex, using their meal allowance – including the plethora of cafés and restaurants which surround the marina.

Pools & beach The main attraction of the hotel is the beautiful and vast oasis-shaped swimming pool and Sea Breeze Bar area, where you can relax in the sunshine and enjoy a cocktail or light lunch – There's also a new adult-only pool and a separate children's pool. Meanwhile, down on the resort's pristine, white sandy private beach you'll be pampered by dedicated 'beach buddies' serving you refreshments and snacks as you relax on a sunbed before taking a leisurely dip into the clear, calm waters. Both the Crazy Shark water sports hut and the PADI Sea World Diving Centre are within easy walking distance along the beach. Watersports on offer include parasailing, waterskiing, inflatables, canoeing, sailing, pedal boats and wake boarding.

Spa & leisure The Spa Suite at Porto Sani Village is the perfect place to be pampered with a variety of treatments

by Anne Semonin to make you feel rejuvenated and refreshed, it also features a heated indoor hydro pool with massaging water jets. For active rest there's a gym with state-of-the-art cardiovascular equipment, classes and personal training available for all levels of fitness. You can also enjoy yoga and aqua aerobics. If that isn't enough, further sporting activities are available at the Sani Sports Centre, located at the Sani Beach Hotel and featuring a mini soccer court; basketball court; beach volleyball and six tennis courts. Sports coaching is available on request.

Evening entertainment The impressive open-air Garden Theatre offers a variety of performances, musicals and entertainment each evening at a very high standard. These shows are well worth seeing, performed by the talented, international in-house cast of musicians, singers and dancers. The Garden Theatre accommodates over 500 guests and has a fully covered stage and bar service.

Book it!

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Sani Resort 630 77 Kassandra, Halkidiki, GREECE Tel: +30.23740.99400 Fax: +30.23740.99508 E-mail: info@saniresort.gr Book your honeymoon through www.saniholidays.com

Caribbean Style

The stunning tropical islands of the West Indies each have their own individual charm and vibe – so which island best suits your honeymoon style? You decide!

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Jamaica The colourful island If you want the Caribbean at its most colourful, loud and authentic, then head to Jamaica, an island that epitomises everything you imagined about the Caribbean. From its laid-back vibe and stunning primary coloured landscapes – green tropical vegetation, white sandy beaches and turquoise ocean, to the beautiful resort hotels in palm fringed beachside locations. There's so much to do and see, from the vibrant bar-strips of Negril and Ocho Rios to exciting tourist attractions including Dunn's River Falls. The island begs to be explored, so don't be tempted to stay within the boundaries of your all-inclusive luxury hotel – discover all that Jamaica has to offer, including Port Antonio and Treasure Beach where you can chill in a local beach bar with a glass of rum to the sound of the reggae beat.

Spree Stay at the Goldeneye, an authentic Jamaican resort, which is a compound of private villas.

Vhiphotels are offering seven nights in a Lagoon Suite from £2,399 pp including flights and transfers. www.vhiphotels.co.uk

Steal Stay at Jewel Dunn's River Resort close to the popular resort of Ocho Rias. Tropical sky is offering seven nights all-inclusive from £1,059 pp including flights and transfers. www.tropicalsky.co.uk

Dunn’s River Falls

Antigua Colonial charm Antigua is best known for its romantic hideaways and private beaches that are perfect for honeymoons, However, unlike many islands in the Caribbean, it is one of the most accessible. But Antigua is much more than just sun, azure blue waters and an astounding 365 beaches. The island, twinned with its less developed sister island, Barbuda, boasts colonial-era historical sites, a range of leisure activities and plenty of culture. Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts beautiful restored original buildings and forts and the capital, St John’s, is perfect for harbour-front shopping in the chic Radcliffe Quay. For the best island views head up to Shirley Heights overlooking the famous English Harbour. And be sure to take time to swim with stingrays, zip through the rainforest and try your hand at watersports.

St John’s, Antigua

Spree Stay at the beautiful Carlisle Bay in a stunning beach setting, offering contemporary décor with an Asian twist. Elegant Resorts is offering seven nights B&B, from £2,545 in a Garden Suite, including flights. www.elegantresorts.co.uk

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Jolly B

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Stay at the Jolly Beach, Antigua, situated in a stunning location overlooking one of Antigua’s white sandy beaches. Virgin Holidays is offering seven nights, all-inclusive from £960 pp including flights and transfers. www.virginholidays.co.uk

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Dominican Republic Beach holiday bliss For a fun beach honeymoon in the Caribbean sunshine, the Dominican Republic is a good all-rounder, with palm-fringed white sandy beaches in abundance on the eastern and northern coasts, a good choice of golf courses, great nightlife and hotels to suit every budget. However, don’t be fooled into thinking that there’s nothing but beaches to keep you inspired and entertained. It is well worth hiring a car and exploring to discover an island lush with mountains studded with waterfalls, magnificent national parks, the unspoilt peninsula of Samana which is perfect for hiking and the pounding surf on the wild, mountainous southwest coast. You will also enjoy exotic cuisine, upscale resorts with marinas and a remarkable variety of arts and entertainment to ensure your honeymoon is unforgettable.

Spree Stay at the luxurious Secrets Royal Beach hotel, set on one of Punta Canas most dazzling white sandy beaches. Seasons is offering seven nights B&B from £2,875 pp in an Ocean View Junior Suite, including flight and transfers. www.seasons.co.uk

Steal Stay at the Iberostar Dominicana set in beautiful tropical gardens in a prime white beach location. Thomas Cook is offering seven nights from £870 per person, including flights and transfers. www.thomascook.com

Grenada The authentic Caribbean Grenada has only recently become a tourist hotspot, and is keen to remain unspoilt and authentic. Known as the ‘Spice Island’, it is romantic and natural with tropical rainforests, forts, waterfalls, spice plantations, white sand beaches and spice-fragranced sea breezes. There’s plenty here to keep both romantics and adventure seekers happily occupied. Try river tubing, hiking in the rainforest or taking a boat excursion to the neighbouring islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique, or visit the Grand Etang National Park, known for its Mona Monkeys. Dive into the Caribbean and discover tropical fish at the Underwater Sculpture Park, with its pristine reefs, 22 wrecks and 50 dive sites. Be sure to sample Grenada’s traditionally produced rum and visit the spice markets in the capital, St George, which sell aromatic nutmeg, cloves and cinnamon.

Spree Stay at the beautiful Sandals La Source, an exotic hideaway for couples only. Virgin Holidays are offering seven nights, luxury included, from £1,908 pp. including flights and transfers. www.virginholidays.co.uk

Steal Stay at the Coyabra, set on the famous Grand Anse Beach. Tropical sky is offering seven nights allinclusive from £1,259 pp including flights. www.tropicalsky.co.uk

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Barbados Glamorous and fun Barbados is the island where the locals love to party. No other Caribbean island offers so many activities and social events, nor such diversity, which is perhaps why Barbados is the Caribbean's most revisited destination. From the rugged beauty and the wild beaches of Bathsheba in the east to the glamorous west and the vibrant south, with its thriving nightlife, to the calm and quiet north, there's definitely something for everyone's taste. There are plenty of activities on offer too – from sunset catamaran cruising along the west coast, a round of golf, a game of polo and watching a cricket match at the Kensington Oval to zip lining, deep-sea fishing, kite surfing, diving and 4x4 safaris and quad biking. The island has over 100 restaurants, from 5-star gastronomy to local eateries. Check out the gourmet card www.barbadosgourmetcard.com.

Spree Stay at the Sandy Lane, one of the most prestigious and luxurious hotels in Barbados. Scott Dunn is offering seven nights including flights and transfers from £3,128 pp, including flights and transfers. www.scottdunn.com

Steal Stay at the beautiful Barbados Beach Club, situated on the south coast of the island. Thomas Cook is offering seven nights all-inclusive from £1,109 pp, including flights and transfers. www.thomascook.com

St Lucia Striking natural beauty St Lucia is a truly romantic island with not only a beautiful beach life, but plenty of incredible natural scenery – it’s perfect for both restful beach honeymoons and action-packed adventure. Here, palm-fringed beaches blend in with lush mountains, rainforest and banana plantations, thriving towns and villages and picturesque marinas. Its many natural attractions include the majestic twin pitons – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – which rise from the sea to give St Lucia its unique identity. There’s also the world’s only drive-in volcano, mud baths, natural springs and rainforests you can zoom over on a zip wire. Try a jeep safari, hire a sailing yacht and anchor in one of the gorgeous coves, or simply relax with a spa treatment. At night, St Lucia comes alive to the sound of reggae and the Calypso beat, while rum is downed in abundance.

Spree Stay at Paradise Ridge at Ladara with romantic exclusive suites and dramatic views of the Pitons. Elegant Resorts is offering seven nights B&B in a Paradise Ridge Suite from £5,595 pp including flights & transfers. www.elegantresorts.co.uk

Steal Stay at the beautiful Rendezvous couples-only resort on the beautiful Malabar beach.

Tropical Sky is offering seven nights from £1,319 pp including flights. www.tropicalsky.co.uk

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Advertising Feature

“conveyer belt” wedding package – couples get the customised options they crave, resulting in a truly personalised Caribbean wedding experience.

And to meet the growing trend for couples to plan their weddings online – Sandals Resorts has created an exclusive Online Destination Wedding Designer. Couples begin by building their profile and selecting their wedding location – one of six gorgeous Caribbean destinations, then using the Sandals Destination Wedding Designer’s interactive tool, they then choose their colour palette from ten distinct shades, including a variety of corals, pinks, blues and greens.

After selecting a palette, couples can easily browse almost 1,000 wedding ideas for flowers, décor, wedding cakes, entertainment, and more. Traditional or tropical? Modern or romantic? Every design style has been included, so couples are sure to find what they’re looking for, down to the last detail.

Curated galleries within the Sandals Destination Wedding Designer cover every facet of the wedding: bouquets and boutonnieres, ceremony details, reception, cakes, specialty dinners and bars, photography and videography packages, and bridal salon appointments for pre-wedding beauty treatments.

Your wedding.

Your style at

Sandals Now you can plan a wedding that is as unique as you are with Sandals' new destination wedding concept, 'Your Wedding. Your Style'

Brides and grooms can also enhance their guests’ experience with a variety of creative décor and entertainment options, including fire dancers, tiki torches, candy buffets and steel drum bands. Best of all, Sandals is offering brides £650 towards the custom wedding they always dreamed of when they stay for six nights.

The Sandals Destination Wedding Designer tool allows them to produce an unlimited number of ‘custom weddings’ so they can decide which combination is ideal for their big day. The tool’s sharing functionality will also let couples send favourite designs and ideas to their parents, bridal party and guests via Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter, and their own wedding website and blog to help them decide. The couple can then book their chosen wedding with their dedicated pre-planning consultant.

Sandals Resorts also specialises in WeddingMoons® and offers brides & grooms a multitude of choices to personalise their honeymoon celebration too, helping to ensure that during their stay at Sandals Resorts everything reflects their taste and style as a couple, from the Love Nest Luxury Suites that were designed especially to offer newlyweds the seclusion they desire, to their own personal butler, who will cater to their every need, be it an indulgent couples spa treatment or a private waterfront candlelit dinner.

Most brides want their weddings to be special, full of creative ideas and personalised to their own individual style, they don’t want a ‘boil in the bag’ wedding package that is the same as everyone else. After all, it’s the most important day of their lives, and they want it to be perfect.

Sandals Resorts has launched ‘Your Wedding. Your Style’ to ensure that each couple has a customised destination wedding experience that’s distinctly, uniquely theirs with a concept that allows them to personally style and execute their dream wedding at any one of Sandals’ luxurious Caribbean resorts.

With 15 stunning beachfront settings, Sandals Resorts has earned a worldwide reputation for providing two people in love with the most romantic holiday experience in the Caribbean, including Jamaica, Antigua, Saint Lucia, The Bahamas, Barbados and Grenada. All Sandals Resorts offer a myriad of exclusive amenities from luxurious accommodation and Butler service to gourmet dining and premium wines and spirits.

With an expanded colour palette, wedding accessories and bespoke experiences, couples can select every aspect of their special day to create their perfect ceremony and reception. The programme eliminates the

Further information: Sandals Resorts offer the perfect venues for dream destination ® weddings, vow renewals, honeymoons and WeddingMoons .

To learn more about ‘Your Wedding. Your Style.’ and the Sandals Destination Wedding Designer call 0800 597 0002 or visit sandals.co.uk/weddingmoons.

And They Lived Happily Ever After Welcome to the most memorable day of your life together The Caribbean Sea and the Riviera Maya shore are witnesses of the bond between two hearts, which have chosen to be together forever.

At the Reef Resorts we help you live this dream, enjoying the Caribbean atmosphere surrounded by nature and the magic of love.

Contact our wedding coordinator for more information:

groups@thereefresorts.com www.thereefresorts.com

Photography: That Moment Photo

Our team of professional wedding planners stands ready to fulfil your every wish and whim. From tropical bridal bouquets to an aisle lined with shells and starfish, we want your special day to be a memory you will cherish forever. Choose from one of several existing wedding packages or allow us to customise your dream wedding day.

There are probably only a few times in your life when ’the world is your oyster’, so why not use your honeymoon to discover the delights of distant shores?

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The city of Valparaiso, North Chile

Far Flung Honeymoons

1 Chile Follow the stars North Chile is one of the best places in the word to experience stargazing in some of the planet’s clearest skies. The extraordinary atmosphere of North Chile and the Atacama Desert, with over 300 clear nights a year and almost no light pollution, is home to an astronomical centre with one of the largest telescopes in the world. A number of the observatories now offer stargazing tours, which include transport, Atacama Desert, North Chile accommodation and the use of stargazing equipment.

What could possibly be more romantic for a honeymoon treat – except gazing into each other’s eyes perhaps! Whilst in North Chile, be sure to visit the bohemian city of Valparaiso, an Unesco World Heritage Site, renowned for its colourful homes that hang off the hills and into the sea.

Stay in style Gran Hotel Gervasoni in Valparaiso is a quirky, traditional hotel filled with natural light and offering accommodation in 14 rooms and suites. The hotel is built right onto the edge of Cerro Concepción Hill and was originally a private home – it still harks back to a by-gone era with its period decor and family heirlooms.

Book it! www.lastfrontiers.com www.chile.travel

2 Hawaii Catch the wave Honeymoon like surf dudes in Hawaii, in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, where the surf is spectacular and the vibe is fun and vibrant. A honeymoon in Hawaii promises to offer so much more than simply superb surfing! Hawaii is made up of a number islands, of which Oahu is central and offers a dramatic fusion of city, country and beach, blending American and Polynesian culture, and modern and historic sites.

Stay in style Live like a star at the Kahala Hotel & Resort, set on a private beach in one of Oahu’s most glamorous neighborhoods. This hotel, a Leading Hotel of the World, is loved by celebrities – from Hollywood movie stars to American presidents and Royalty – for its hideaway vibe, though it is only 10-minutes from the lively resort of Waikiki. Guests can indulge in sublime spa treatments, dine in a choice of five restaurants and enjoy world-class surfing for which Hawaii is renowned.

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3 Australia Eco lodge pampering Lovers of TV’s I’m a Celebrity can have their very own rumble in the jungle if they book a honeymoon at Daintree Eco Lodge, tucked away in the Australian rainforest. But don’t worry, you wont starve here, or Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa need to do jungle challenges to earn your food – the hotel is notorious for its fresh, healthy cuisine, served up by friendly staff. And what could be more romantic than staying in your own tree house on stilts? If you fancy some authentic Australian pampering, the Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa has a world-class spa where you can relax and be massaged with the gorgeous Li’Tya Australian skincare products in sensory heaven, to the sounds of birdsong and scents of the jungle. However, you are never far from all the mod cons – there’s a bar/lounge and all rooms have complimentary Wi-Fi, refrigerators, air conditioning and climate control. If you don’t fancy being a jungle bunny for your entire honeymoon, you can take a helicopter ride from the hotel to the Great Barrier Reef.

Book it! www.booking.com

4 Bora Bora Movie location

St Regis, Bora Bora

If you’ve seen the Romcom movie Couples Retreat, starring Vince Vaughn, you may wonder where in the world you can find the spectacular resort featured in the movie. We can reveal that the paradise island, where the film’s couples’ in crisis rekindled their love, is in fact Bora Bora, in the South Pacific. The stunning island is one of the world’s most romantic spots and is a favourite celebrity hideaway – Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban honeymooned here, whilst Eva Longoria and Tony Parker have also enjoyed its tropical splendors.

Stay in style The St Regis, Bora Bora is one of the most breathtaking hotels in the world, with picture-perfect thatched Over-water Villas offering superb views across the turquoise lagoon. This sprawling 44-acre estate offers the most exclusive island accommodation in Polynesia with flawless service. The resort’s newly branded CLARINS spa is nestled on its own private island and features sublime Polynesian, Asian and CLARINS Touch treatments.

Book it! www.starwoodhotels.com 114 www.BridesAbroad.tv

5 California Pacific Coast Drive Don’t just visit the popular tourist attractions of California, hire a car from the airport, let your hair down, take the drive of your life and live the dream Pacific Coast Highway as you experience one to the world’s best road trips – USA’s Pacific Coast Highway, linking Los Angeles to San Francisco. The trip covers a distance of 458 miles beginning in Los Angeles – where celebrity spotting and visiting movie locations is a must, it then takes you on a ten day journey through Santa Barbara; Solvang; Pismo Beach; San Luis Obispo (where you can take a wine tasting excursion to the Creekside brewing Company); Morro Bay (take a Kayak for a picnic lunch); Hearst Castle; Big Sur (stroll through the redwood groves); Carmel (follow the Carmel Wine Walk by the sea); Monterey (visit the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium) and finish your drive in San Francisco, where you can see the Golden Gates Bridge and enjoy discovering this fascinating city.

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Further information Visitcalifornia.co.uk and www.discoverlosangeles.com

6 Flores Chase the dragon The unique island of Flores, close to Bali in Eastern Indonesia, has been voted one of the world’s top ten regions in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2015 yearbook.

Be a travel pioneer on your honeymoon and discover this amazing island for yourselves, with its incredibly varied landscape – from picture-perfect beaches, great diving, lush tropical forests and smoking volcanoes to stunning hiking opportunities, exotic cultures and unique wildlife – you can even get up close to Komodo dragons (yes, real live dragons!) at Komodo National Park, go island hopping around tiny islands or trek up Mount Kelimutu, with its three coloured lakes, the possibilities in Flores are endless.

Stay in style Situated on the white sands of Pede Beach, Laprima Hotel Flores is surrounded by the scenic hills of Komodo National Park and boasts beautiful sea views, pampering spa treatments and a superb location. It is a 30-minute drive from Pink Beach Dive Spot and Komodo Island is an hour’s speedboat ride away.

Book it www.lonelyplanet.com Photos courtesy of www.tourism-indonesia.co.uk

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ALPINE BLISS IN

SWITZERLAND Snuggle up in a luxury Alpine retreat or enjoy tranquil lakeside views on your honeymoon in Switzerland, perfect for lovers of winter sports, spa pampering and summer mountain pursuits, says Alan Benstock

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‘One region, a thousand adventures’ is how the Lake Geneva region of Switzerland likes to describe itself and there is certainly never a dull moment when you visit. Whether you want an all-action honeymoon or sublime relaxation breathing in the fresh mountain air, Switzerland has it all.

Winter sports Winter finds the snows of the Alps and Jura holding out the inviting prospect of skiing, tobogganing, skating and curling. For the adventurous there is snow tubing on an inflated tire at the Tobogganing Park in Leysin. Whilst at Glacier 3,000, there is the Alpine Coaster – the highest bobsleigh track in the world.

Summer in the Alps In the spring and summer, the fields, forests and vineyards beckon for exploring on foot, mountain bike or by car. You can swim, sleep in straw or spend a night in a teepee or Mongolian yurt. Look a little closer and you will find rivers and waterfalls with crystal clear water, gorges and caves - all begging for further investigation. All these delights are set on Alpine peaks with breathtaking panoramas.

Meanwhile, the bustling cities and charming towns along the lake offer visitors a mélange of the modern and historical attractions. Whether it is the castle at Chillon or the recently re-opened Olympic Museum in Lausanne, there is plenty to explore and things to do. Discover the designer shops and department stores and stop off for light refreshment at a street-side café and watch the world go by with a frothy Cappuccino and delicious pastries.

Getting there l Genève Airport serves the region l There are services from all London airports and most regional ones throughout the UK l The national carrier is Swissair www.swiss.com l There is a frequent direct train link from the airport to Lausanne taking 34 minutes l The Lavaux Transport Card offers discount travel by train bus and metro with many other tourist benefits. It is available at hotel receptions

The pretty villages are picture perfect – take a romantic ride in a horse drawn carriage and find a cosy restaurant or fondue cellar and enjoy the Swiss specialty cheese fondue, washed down with a glass or two of chilled local wine.

Mountain Spa Therapy If the clear Alpine air isn't enough to inspire total wellness, then the region's superb spa offerings will soothe the soul with massages, wraps, exfoliations and facials harnessing the healing qualities of locally sourced ingredients – from mountain flowers and herbs to therapeutic natural Alpine spring waters. Honeymooners should take the opportunity to indulge in a Couple's Spa Ritual for the ultimate pampering experience.

Marry in Switzerland For a wedding in Switzerland early planning is usually required as it takes approximately three months to process all the necessary documentation and paperwork. Once approval is granted it is valid for six months. There is no long-term residency requirement. You will need to produce the following documents, which must be translated into French, Italian or German and certified with an Apostille stamp. l Copy of a birth certificate issued in the past six months. l A valid passport. l Where appropriate, final divorce decree or death certificate. l Certificate of No-Impediment.

The bride and groom must have all their legal documents ready for submission to their nearest Swiss Embassy a minimum of three months before the intended wedding date.

Wedding planners www.myweddinginswitzerland.com www.switzerlandweddingcompany.com

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WHERE TO STAY Le Mirador Kempinski If you are looking for a wellness honeymoon in the Alps with spectacular vistas, Le Mirador Kempinski is the perfect choice On arrival at Le Mirador Kempinski at Mont-Pelerin, you will be totally awestruck by its stunning hillside setting offering breathtaking views across Lake Geneva to the mountains beyond. For what seems an eternity you will just stand there and gaze at this vista as a sense of peace and tranquility overcomes.

You will soon discover the many other attributes, which make Le Mirador Kempinski a Leading Hotel of the World – from the smiling faces of the staff and the luxurious décor to the beautiful artwork that adorns the reception.

Located in Mont Pelerin, in a prime position high on the Chardonne grape vineyard-rich foothills between Lausanne and Montreux, the hotel is awash with natural light, which gives you an immediate feeling of wellbeing and vitality.

Throughout your stay that stunning view is always present, as the hotel has been specifically designed so that its 61 stylishly designed rooms and suites, relaxation areas, restaurant and health spa enjoy full benefit of this inspiring vista of the Swiss Alpine skyline and landscape. The hotel combines this with world–class service and luxury.

The hotel offers a wide range of gastronomy offered in its exquisite restaurants, including the Michelin starred Le Trianon, and Le Patio. For the real traditional Swiss cuisine Au Chalet is the ideal place to share a romantic fondue made with locally produced cheeses. What more could you want for the perfect honeymoon retreat?

Luxurious spa pampering For the ultimate spa experience there is a Givenchy Spa – the only one in Switzerland and only four worldwide – which is dedicated to purity. The Spa offers a globally inspired menu of calming, hands-on massages that channel a delicate blend of Eastern and Western relaxation philosophies. Deep stone therapy, energizing Lomi-Lomi, reflexology and bespoke massages ensure that vitality, circulation and flexibility is effortlessly restored.

Weddings and blessings With its spectacular terraces, Le Mirador Kempinski makes a magical location for your spring or summer wedding or blessing. Whether you choose to say "I do" at the hotel or on Lake Geneva or on Switzerland's Alps, and whatever time of year, you can be sure that your day will be truly unforgettable.

Further information Le Mirador Kempinski Lake Geneva Chemin de l'Hôtel du Mirador 5, 1801 Mont-Pelerin T +41 (0)21 925 11 11 F +41 (0)21 925 11 12 www.kempinski.com

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Lausanne Palace & Spa For a glamorous honeymoon, with the opulence of yesteryear, the Lausanne Palace is an excellent choice – and it's a foodie heaven!

Often described as much more than a hotel, the Lausanne Palace & Spa is at the very heart of the city whose name it bears. It is a meeting place not just for the people of Lausanne but also international high society.

The Lausanne Palace dates back to the 'Belle Epoque', a time of optimism, new technology and design; a time when the great hotels of Europe could express themselves boldly, offering the height of luxury to their guests. The European gourmets began to recognise the importance of regional cuisine and were demanding ever more innovative menus.

In recent years the Lausanne Palace has undergone extensive improvements and renovations. Whilst retaining its 'Belle Epoque' atmosphere it offers every modern convenience, and that little bit more, to ensure that every stay is one of gracious luxury.

World-class dining Gault Millau, one of the most influential French restaurant guides, named the Lausanne Palace & Spa its Hotel of the Year 2011. Its gourmet restaurant the Table d'Edgard, which was awarded 4 Forks for its comfort, a Snowflake for its quality and One Star for its cuisine by the Michelin Guide, offers fine dining on two terraces with breathtaking views overlooking Lake Geneva and the Alps.

Spa wellness The hotel's CBE Concept Spa provides an oasis of vitality, beauty and wellbeing for guests. Nature and technology come together as a core part of its philosophy, which is rooted in Ayurveda.

A wide range of treatments and therapies, both contemporary and traditional, are available in the Spa, which boasts a gymnasium, indoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna, hammam, solarium and relaxation rooms.

Getting married With the dramatic views of Lake Geneva and the backdrop of the Alps and the terraced vineyards of Lavaux, the Lausanne Palace makes an ideal location for romantic weddings. The hotel's staff are well experienced in the coordinating of weddings, from intimate groups of immediate family and friends to large wedding parties.

Further information Lausanne Palace & Spa Rue du Grand-ChĂŞne 7 - 1003 Lausanne T +41 21 331 31 31 www.lausanne-palace.com

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Chalet Royalp Hotel & Spa For winter sports enthusiasts, there can be few hotels as picturesque and romantic as Chalet Royalp hotel. There are plenty of fun-filled summer pursuits available here too for active honeymooners The charming Chalet Royalp Hotel & Spa is a Swiss chalet hotel in Villars-sur-Ollon, offering luxury in a delightful setting – perfect for both winter and summer honeymoons.

Situated at an altitude of 1300 m, on a sunny south-facing terrace high above the Rhone Valley, the hotel enjoys breathtaking views of the Dents-du-Midi, the Mont Blanc massif and as far as Lake Geneva.

The hotel is beautifully built using natural, richly golden softwoods and terracotta tiles typical of Alpine design and culture. Bedrooms are decorated in traditional style with typical Swiss soft furnishings.

For dining there's a choice of three excellent restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisine.

You can also enjoy long leisurely lunches dining on the terraces, breathing in the clear mountain air and enjoying the views of the village of Villars and surrounding valleys.

Mountain spa Serenity is taken to a new level at La Spa, which offers a unique, relaxing atmosphere in 1,200 sqm of space. This haven of tranquility was awarded Best Luxury Destination Spa in Europe at the World Luxury Spa Awards 2014 and boasts a fitness room, indoor pool and thermal suite. Honeymooners can book a private Spa Suite to share a Couple's Spa Treatment together – the honeymoon couple will be spoilt further with a bottle of Champagne, sweets, a fruit basket and a complimentary mini-bar.

Winter sports For lovers of winter sport, the area of Villars offers excellent skiing in 125 km of ski slopes, incorporating Villars/Bretaye and Gryon, which is also linked to the Les Diablerets skiing area and includes glacial skiing. In addition there are three Snow Parks, 44 km of cross-country skiing trails, toboggan runs and numerous winter walking routes – not to mention a lively après-ski scene.

Summer adventure Summer offers hiking, mountain biking and golf with signposted footpaths and mountain bike routes leading up to the mountain lakes of Lac de Chavonnes, Lac de Bretaye and Lac Noir. The theme parks of AquaParc and Swiss Vapeur Parc are close by, plus the adventure park in Aigle (rope park), the adventure maze in Evionnaz, a working salt mine in Bex, 'Fun Planet' near Villeneuve and you can also take part in water sports on Lake Geneva.

Marry in the Alps Whether you are dreaming of a winter wonderland wedding with a glistening snow backdrop or a lush green summer mountain setting with glorious vistas, the hotel is a heavenly place for your wedding. On your big day you can arrive in style – on skis in winter or in summer by narrow gauge railway, which stops at the hotel's own railway station.

Further information Chalet RoyAlp Hôtel & Spa Domaine de Rochegrise CH-1884, Villars-sur-Ollon, Switzerland T +41 24 495 90 90 F +41 24 495 90 91 info@royalp.ch www.royalp.ch

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