Wedding Accessories For Less Than $100

Another amazing Etsy.com designer to the rescue! Introducing Modern Romance - a uber chic, inexpensive alternative to the high-priced boutique standbys. The owner and designer, Christine, offers customized wedding accessories ranging from $30 - $95. These pieces are essential to add a little modern pizazz to any wedding ensemble - especially perfect for destination weddings!

Accessories for the bridesmaids are available too - she loves to come up with new things - so just tell her what you want and she'll make it! Above are some of her sweet little creations.

Visit her http://www.modernromancepdx.etsy.com/ site or her blog!

Get a 5-Star Destination Wedding for Less Than $20,000

From now until December 14, 2009 - you can get a 5-star destination wedding for less than $20,000 at Half Moon Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

Their "Allure" package includes:

For the Ceremony:

• Marriage Officer
• Marriage License and Certified Copies
• Tropical Bloom Bridal Bouquet
• 3 Bridesmaids bouquet of tropical blooms
• 4 Tropical Boutonnieres for the Groom and groomsmen
• 2 Tropical Corsages for the Mothers of the bride and groom
• Tropical flowers adorning a draped canopy or wedding gazebo
• Violinist, Guitarist or Saxophonist for the ceremony

For The Reception:

• 6 Tropical Table Centrepieces
• Votive candles and holders for each table
• 4-hour Open Bar including post-ceremony cocktail hour
• Chef Selection of Hors D’oeuvres for Post Ceremony Cocktail Hour
• Grand Dinner Buffet or 3-course Plated Dinner Menu
• Disc Jockey for Post Ceremony Cocktail and Reception Dinner (4 hours)
• Three Tiered Vanilla Wedding Cake

Plus:

• Photography Service for 3 hours with 60 5x7 prints
• Professional Make-up at the Beauty Salon for the Bride
• Wedding Location Setup to include Chair Ties and PA System
• Personal Wedding Planner
  
  

If you've got a group of up to 50 people and have been spying Half Moon Resort as a possible destination wedding spot, this could be just the package deal you've been waiting for. http://www.halfmoon.com/

Real-Life Wedding, Carnival Style

Today, I'm breaking two rules on the blog. First, we are featuring an event that was not a destination wedding. And second, we're posting many more pictures than we usually allow. But when you are finished checking out this post, you'll understand why.

The couple we are featuring today should win an award for creativity. This is by far the most unique, colorful and fun wedding I've ever had the pleasure of seeing. Courtney and Charles were married last October and decided to go with a carnival theme. Every detail was executed to perfection! The favors, the decor, the cake, the photography - just exquisite!

Carnival games and rides were there for all to enjoy!

Apparently, Courtney is a graphic designer and was the creative brain behind the details. She put an inordinate amount of thought into each piece of this wedding.

The reception site couldn't have been a more perfect complement to the already colorful, casual and classic theme of the event.

It just so happens that Charles is quite handy. He built several things to go along with the decor that Courtney designed such as cotton candy posts, games, trash cans etc...

What would a carnival themed wedding be without candy apple favors?

Like they always say, rules are meant to be broken.

Thanks to Victor Sizemore for allowing us the use of these incredible images!

Cooookies!

I have a sweet tooth. A bad sweet tooth. So when I get to a wedding and find out there is a wedding favor in the shape of this, I get very excited.

Being in the wedding industry, we are always looking for the latest in wedding ideas. This one is perfect because it works for any kind of wedding - especially destination weddings!

Brought to you by Flour Pot Cookie Boutique, you can find cookies in almost any shape.

For example: sand dollars! These are perfect for a beach wedding, or just a beach theme.

For the couple who loves a long walk in the park or a bike ride, these bicycle cookies are adorable and delicious.

These swimsuit cookies are colorful, fun and perfect for a tropical wedding.

If you are planning a winter wedding, what better than some snowflakes to get the theme right?

Or a wedding in the Cape? These nautical themed favors are a perfect compliment, to a wedding, shower or pre/post party.

Doing a city wedding? These taxi cab cookies are the way to go.

Just promise me this, if you are planning your upcoming wedding and decide to go with these favors, will you send me an invitation?

More Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Deals

Palace Resorts, known for their five-star, all-inclusive resort accommodations is offering complimentary wedding and honeymoon packages.

Combined with lower than ever price of airfare to Mexico and up to $1,000 in added-value promotions with the Palace Passport for wedding guests that stay at Palace Resorts for three nights of more, these new wedding and honeymoon amenities give all happy couples the chance to create a one-of-a-kind affair at some of the most affordable prices for tropical destination weddings and honeymoons.




The complimentary wedding package includes:

• Personalized wedding planner
• On-site location & decor
• Ceremony music
• Private dinner reservations
• Personalized cake for up to 35 guests

If you are interested in adding other items such as a color themed event with personalized details, additional fees apply but are remarkably affordable. Packages range from $1875 to $2300.

To take advantage of their complimentary honeymoon package, it doesn't matter if you were married at Palace Resorts or not! As long as you were married in the past year, they will honor their romantic honeymoon package which includes:

• Signature Palace Resorts five-star service
• Double Jacuzzis
• Premium liquor dispensers
• Unlimited long distance calls to the continental U.S. and Canada
• Breakfast in bed including a bottle of sparkling wine and honeymoon cake
• Private romantic dinner for two
• Special turn down service
• Ten percent discount at the gift shop
• Access to the exclusive honeymoon concierge desk
• 6:00 p.m. late check-out

Who knew getting married could score you so many luxurious freebies?!

http://www.palaceresortsweddings.com/.
Images provided by Palace Resorts

The Biggest Loser - Another One Finds Love!

We have covered two weddings from couples who have found love while on the TV show, The Biggest Loser.

Matt & Suzy Hoover met on the show, fell head over heels, got married in Jamaica (featured on our Summer 2007 cover) and now are blessed with having started a family!

In our current issue, you'll see the adorable and romantic story of Amy & Marty Wolff, who tied the knot in St. Lucia after having fell in love on the show.

Image by Baltazar Photography

Is it just me, or is there something more to this show than just reinventing your body, mind and spirit - maybe it's also an aphrodisiac?

Either way, there's more good news coming from Season 6. Michelle Aguilar, just tied the knot to Micha Whitehead in Texas on June 14th, looking slim and smashing in a silk satin off the shoulder gown with a bow detail and rhinestone and crystal beading by Piccione (style 450).

Image by Edmonson Weddings / David, Luke & Lauren

Bridesmaids donned short, sleek dresses from the Alfred Angelo collection, in refreshing summer color Lipstick (Style 6129sn).

Congrats to Michelle and Micha! Best of luck!

The Bridesmaid Dress Dilemma - Solved

Dressing your favorite gal pals isn't easy. All women struggle to find the perfect outfit for a special occasion - and what's more special than a wedding?



So here you are with your entourage of bridesmaids, all equipped with completely different "assets," wanting desperately to look perfect as they saunter down your matrimonial aisle. Top that off with the fact that you've decided to do a destination wedding,therefore the more traditional options won't work for your event . So what's a girl to do?

Log on to BariJay.com, that's what.



Bari Jay Bridesmaids has created dresses styled for any woman, influenced from top trends and colors in European and American fashion. All silhouettes are flattering and easy to wear. So easy, in fact, girls are able to wear and re-wear the dresses for numerous occasions.

Even better, BariJay.com is complete with interactive tools so you can see the dress in several colors before deciding. They have so many styles, colors and fabrics to choose from, you’re sure to find dresses suitable for all your lovely maids without braking the bank. You can email your bridesmaids straight from the site with the styles you love to get their input.


Plus, Bari Jay has several styles perfect for destination weddings– breathable fabrics great for casual beach-side destinations, while some of their longer gowns complement cool temperatures or more formal events.

Just in case you fall in love with a silhouette for yourself, keep in mind most of their styles are available in white or ivory. Now you can rest assured that your bridal party will be well dressed, happy and ready to walk down the aisle looking their best.

For more information visit: http://www.barijay.com/

What Kind of Destination Wedding is Right for You?

For the "History Lovers": The Inn at Perry Cabin, a colonial mansion steeped in history and located in charming St. Michaels, Maryland provides the perfect backdrop to run away and get married. Their “Elopement Package” includes a ceremony in a choice of locations including the waterfront gazebo or their private English garden, one night accommodation in a luxurious master suite offering verandas perfect for newlyweds to take advantage of the views of St. Michaels harbor, a three-course VIP dinner for two in the inn’s premier restaurant, Sherwood’s Landing, Champagne, chocolate covered strawberries at turndown and breakfast for two. www.perrycabin.com

For "Wine Lovers": La Samanna in St. Martin, French West Indies provides the perfect setting for a dream wine lovers destination wedding. Recognized as one of the best wine cellars in the Caribbean, La Cave serves as a unique and luxurious scene for a romantic dinner. With over 14,000 bottles from 11 different countries, this underground oasis of wine features heirloom cobblestone floors from France dating back over 200 years, arched portals, and wrought iron accents. Couples can take their vows in a special spot created exclusively for weddings in a clearing surrounded by lush foliage and a striking Caribbean beach front view. The Restaurant at La Samanna provides a perfect reception venue with an opulent dining room offering panoramic ocean views adding to the enjoyment of the delicious meal - complete, of course, with the perfect wine pairing. www.lasamanna.com

For the "Culinary" couple: Casa de Sierra Nevada, a luxury boutique hotel and cooking school in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, caters to the most tasteful world traveler. Couples and their guests can take classes at Sazón, the hotel’s highly regarded cooking school, offering the finest instruction in traditional Mexican cooking, peruse one of the town’s countless art galleries or enjoy San Miguel’s 400 year-old history, exquisite Spanish Colonial architecture, fountains and hidden courtyards combined with true Mexican traditions. Relax after an eventful day with a couple’s natural herbal massage in the hotel’s new Laja Spa www.casadesierranevada.com

For the "Mountain loving/Adventure-Seeking" couple: A luxury boutique hotel of grand style, Keswick Hall offers the ultimate in seclusion located at the foot of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains making the perfect backdrop for the big day. Before vows are swapped, the couple’s last few single nights require some serious celebrating with friends and family. For the bride and her “besties”, Keswick Hall offers a Martini Madness & Movie Night and a Pampering Pajama Spa Party. For the groom and his entourage, a golf tournament on Keswick’s 6,506 yard Arnold Palmer Signature golf course, a morning of fly fishing and clay shooting are an absolute must, followed by cocktails and cigars on the terrace and few rounds of Texas Hold’em. Keswick Hall also offers unique activities for all to take part in throughout their stay including Croquet and Wine Tasting, a Champagne Putting Contest, dessert and late night munchies after the rehearsal dinner and a Virginian Barbeque and Blue Grass poolside celebration. www.keswick.com

For the “Southern Belle and Gentleman” couple: Charleston Place, one of the finest hotels in Charleston, South Carolina is the perfect venue for a couple seeking a unique, timeless elegance with the essential southern charm and hospitality. The ceremony can be performed in the beautiful Palmetto Courtyard or on the hotel’s new intimate yacht, the Innisfail. What would a southern wedding be without a reception in the grand ballroom? Elegantly appointed with recessed crystal chandeliers and 16-foot ceilings, the ballroom can host up to 1,500 attendees in over 14,000 square feet. Finish the majestic day with a night in the Presidential Suite – with a full living room, wet bar, dining table, pantry, entertainment armoire, an Orient Express signature walk-in closet, full bath and a full king-size bed….to rest your head, of course. www.charlestonplace.com

For the “Foodie” couple: The Windsor Court Hotel located in the heart of New Orleans, Louisiana, a city renowned for spectacular food, marks the perfect spot for gourmet lovers to tie the knot. The hotel’s newly refurbished and famed Grill Room provides and upscale dining experience, offering guests innovative “Contemporary American” cuisine with Southern influences and local ingredients against a backdrop of jazz, New Orleans blues and instrumentals inspired by the great crooners. The newly married duo can begin the honeymoon in the exquisite Penthouse Suite. Offering complete privacy as well as secluded terraces overlooking the city skyline and the Mississippi River, original museum-quality artwork, Italian marble floors, a library, a full kitchen and a baby grand piano, couples will fall in love (again) with Windsor Court. www.windsorcourthotel.com

For the “Type A’s-Who-Need-to-Slow-Down” couple: Bora Bora Lagoon Resort and Spa located in dazzling slow-paced French Polynesia, allows fast-paced couples the opportunity to slow down, relax and take in the magical moments of their special day. Otemanu, the resort’s premier restaurant - known for its breathtaking views of Mount Otemanu and the Bora Bora lagoon, offers the perfect atmosphere for a rehearsal dinner. Exchange vows on the gorgeous main beach and celebrate on a sunset cruise. Couples can book one of the romantic Overwater End of Pontoon Bungalows which are carefully oriented to views and sunlight with privacy as a key consideration. www.boraboralagoon.com

Who Needs a Traditional Wedding Cake?

Cupcakes have been climbing the ladder of dessert popularity for some time now. Bridal showers, corporate events, and now even weddings will feature a tower of cupcakes rather than the more formal desserts. And what's not to love? They are easy to share, easy to eat and lend a signature feel to any event.



Recently, one of my dear friends and loyal writers, brought me a cardboard box filled with the most amazing frosting topped cupcake I've EVER eaten. Moist red velvet cake baked to perfection and garnished with a healthy helping of butter-cream frosting was inhaled and accompanied by moaning and fingers licked clean. What was this heavenly decadent dessert you ask? And can you get some for your wedding or event? The answer is Sprinkles Cupcakes and yes, you can get them for your wedding or event.



Sprinkles can do a tiered tower of cupcakes in white or you can customize your tasty treats with signature colored ribbons or decorations.

If you're not down with the tower de cupcake, but are interested in maybe a personalized favor that won't break the bank, Sprinkles offers single serving cupcakes with details on top served in individual cardboard boxes for $5 each.

Now, I'm hoping the people at Sprinkles read this - I'm ready for my next Red Velvet trip to Cloud Nine and I'm confident they will oblige. http://www.sprinkles.com/wedding/index.html

Take a Hike - And Save $400

For those of you who are looking to explore the countryside and enjoy a romantic tour through Italy, we suggest you take a hike!

Better yet, do it for less!

For price-conscious travelers not willing to give up quality experiences and fine service, Italian Connection offers the new “Simply Italian” option where guests save up to $400 USD on walking tours in Sicily, Piedmont, Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast.

By staying in simpler hotels or local B&Bs, guests still enjoy all the features of a classic Italian Connection tour but at a very friendly price. Travelers will taste the finest white truffles in Alba, hike to a hidden grotto decorated with 7,000 year old paintings in western Sicily, dine in an Italian grandmother’s home in Tuscany, and enjoy a private lunch along the spectacular “path of the Gods” on the Amalfi Coast.

The "Simply Italian" option is available on the following walking tours: Western Sicily & Egadi Islands May 6-11, Amalfi Coast & Capri May 17-21 and September 28 – October 2, Tuscany Hilltowns May 19-24 and Piedmont Vineyards & Lakes June 19-25 and October 9-15. Tours are 5 to 7 days, with 5 to 10 miles daily walking and have no more than 13 people in a tour. Prices with the savings start at $2695 per person based on double occupancy and include accommodations, guided walks, most meals, excellent wines and unique insider experiences.

www.italian-connection.com.

Get to Paradise for $565 Round-Trip

If you're looking for an amazing honeymoon destination, Fiji has it all, and now, it won't kill your wallet to get there! Air Pacific, Fiji’s International Airline, has just announced round-trip fares as low as $565 from Los Angeles to Nadi, Fiji. The sale is from June 30, 2009 for travel good through December 31, 2009.

Plus, with the exchange rate being so low, US citizens and travelers coming from many other destinations can stay, eat and play for less.

http://www.airpacific.com/

Hand-Made Wedding Invitations

Like most of you, I've also become a huge fan of etsy.com. Who doesn't love their affordable hand-made and original vintage treats? I have found myself shopping for birthday gifts, mother's day presents and our interns scour the pages looking for cool accessories for your wedding day.

But this one threw me. Who knew you could find your wedding invitations on etsy.com?


These adorable paper creations are made by Paper Mango.

Not only are they super cute, but they are SO affordable! Only $3.00 per "suite" which includes the invitation, RSVP card and matching envelopes for both. FYI ladies, I paid almost $9 for mine and they weren't nearly this pretty!

You can visit their etsy.com page here or http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5933007

or their new blog here: http://www.papermangoblog.blogspot.com/

P.S. They love dogs - so you know they are good peeps!

Destination Wedding of the Week

Images by A Bryan Photo

When Drew and Shay were trying to decide on the perfect place to get married, Shay knew she wanted to have her ceremony on the sand, but the beaches of her hometown of Florida weren't quite the exotic feel she had in mind. Drew also wanted to do a beach side destination wedding, and he knew just the place, Manuel Antonio beach in Costa Rica.

Several years back, Drew had come to Costa Rica while studying Spanish in college and instantly fell in love with the tropical beaches of Manuel Antonio. What a perfect fit, a lovely destination for his lovely bride!

The couple had planned a week-long visit, so by the time the wedding came, they were relaxed and had spent plenty of time with family and friends.

Fuchsia pink cocktail-length bridesmaid dresses paired with white calla lilies were a classic and eye-popping choice. *Hint, selecting bright colors especially hot pink, royal blue, lime green or red, will always create more interest in your wedding images versus more subdued colors like taupe or sage green.

Shay looked stunning as she took to the aisle in her floor length ivory gown and loose fitting up-do.

A simple bouquet of orchids and white calla lilies gave her look a modern and casual feel yet still felt elegant and classic.

The wedding party - and it was a large one - as they stroll down the beaches of Costa Rica for their photo session with A Bryan Photo.

An evening reception took place under a tented canopy, while guests enjoyed the company of the relaxed and happy newlywed couple. Hibiscus adorned drinks complimented the bridal parties colors and also provided a welcome refreshment to the balmy temperatures of Costa Rica.

We wish Drew and Shay a happy and fun filled life! And a huge "THANKS" to A Bryan Photo for sending us this beautiful wedding!

Why You Should Skip Throwing the Garter & Bouquet

Image by Josh Andrus

Traditions are important. When it comes to wedding traditions, there are some which are more important than others. Stomping on the glass, cutting the cake, having your father walk you down the aisle - are all things that make us swoon as we get closer to the alter.

But there are some, and a few of you may not agree with me, that can be tossed (excuse the pun).

The bouquet and garter toss, are the ones I am referring to.

Now, 25 or 30 years ago, this was all the rage - but in today's wedding events - things have changed a little. Couples are waiting longer and longer to tie the knot, therefore the average age of a bride is 28 and the groom is 32. Along with 30-something couples, comes 30-something singles.

Not everyone in their 30's or 40's is interested in being pointed out as single. It may seem like fun to the bride and groom to pick a special song and whoop it up on the dance floor because it's considered "tradition," but all it does is make the single women in the group wish they were invisible and the men dart for the restroom.

When I have attended weddings in the past where this tradition is kept and there are a large amount of people between the ages of 10 and 25, it's a great deal of fun. So I'm not saying scrap this idea altogether, I'm simply saying - check your guest list. If you have only a handful of singles who are between 28-40, skip it. They will feel like fools and your idea of the large group shoving each other and laughing to catch the bouquet or garter is going to end up being a bust.

If you need an alternate idea because you are certain you need to give away your bouquet - do an anniversary dance. Request that your DJ or band ask all couples to get on the dance floor for a romantic song. They can begin eliminating couples depending on how long they've been together. The couple who has been together the longest, wins! Then hand over your bouquet and a bottle of champagne to the lucky couple. It's classy and it's a great way to get the older couples out on the dance floor. You won't embarrass anyone and your single friends will feel grateful you didn't make them a spectacle.