The Next Issue of Destination I Do

We're done! The latest issue of Destination I Do is off to the printer and we can now put up our feet, pat ourselves on the back and enjoy a day off...hey, a girl can dream can't she? Either way, we're super excited because it's a great issue.

We've visited, tasted, tested and traveled all over to bring readers of Destination I Do, the very best in locations and inspiration.

The Fall/Winter 2009 issue is packed full of domestic destinations to say "I do" and affordable ways to make it happen. We've got a great article on how to recession-proof your destination wedding, plus one on how to dodge wedding disasters (even if they are out of your control).

From the calm mountain vistas of Tuscon (below - Loews Ventana Canyon Resort)...


To the uber-chic hot-spots of Los Angeles (below - Viceroy Santa Monica)...


And even the birthplace of bands like Nirvana and SoundGarden in the musical city of Seattle... we've uncovered 80 places to stay, eat and play in the USA. Plus, all of these stateside locales are perfect for tying the knot (and helping out our economy in the process).

We've brought you helpful info, expert opinions, a generous helping of down-to-earth destinations and fashion for the important ladies in your bridal party (including some trendy and flattering Mother-of-the-Bride ideas) plus so much more; all nestled on the pages of our beautiful publication.

All of these stories, and more (like the "Dearly Beloved" - Grand Velas All Suites and Spa Resort - shown above) will be waiting for you at a local Barnes & Noble (and other bookstores/newsstands nationwide) on September 1st. You can also order advanced copies and we'll ship them straight to you. If you would like to order one, click here.

Now we've got to get started on the 2010 issues!

Destination Weddings in Lake Las Vegas

By Honora Mastriacovo

It is said that over 100,000 couples decide to tie the knot in Las Vegas each year. From last minute weddings on the run to dream-platinum weddings, Vegas is a destination that has every bride’s needs covered.


Just 17 miles from the strip, you will find a beautiful desert resort where luxury and elegance is easy to find. Lake Las Vegas offers brides several breathtaking venues, yet with the excitement of a Vegas wedding.

This unique desert resort has been modeled after an Italian lakeside village, complete with cobblestone streets, piazzas and waterfront cafes. From dining in elegant restaurants, to shopping in the village boutiques there is an endless list of activities to enjoy while on resort property. Enjoy exploring the outdoors – take a short ride to the Hoover Dam and kayak down the Colorado River, or for a little more adventure, take a whitewater rafting trip down the river followed by a helicopter ride out. There are also championship golf courses and relaxing day spas that guests can enjoy.

Lake Las Vegas allows couples and their guests to enjoy the excitement of sin city while having a peaceful oasis to escape to for an unforgettable destination wedding.

Article by Honora Mastriacovo, Freelance writer with Ultimate Escapes Luxury Destination Club

Will You Be My Bridesmaid?

There is something special about being asked to be part of a destination wedding party. Most friends and family members feel very honored to be considered for the role of bridesmaid, groomsmen or the VIP title of maid-of-honor or best man.

And as couples find themselves having to call or email to ask these dear loved ones to be a part of their big day - there is something much cooler they could be doing. They could be sending them cookie messages.

The Flour Pot "Will You be My" cookies ask the question with a little more care and thought than a simple call or email. They are only $10 (includes the cookie and adorable wrapping) so it won't cost you a fortune either.

Just think of what your bridal party is about to embark when being entrusted to your sacred society. The least you can do is ask them in a yummy and unforgettable way!

Unique Wedding Cake Toppers

Personalized details for destination weddings, such as wedding cake toppers - can not only be unique but also hand-made and specific to your theme. We've been logging on to http://www.etsy.com/ and finding everything from hand-stitched veils to beautiful bridal jewelry. This time, we went on to check out what they had as far as cake toppers and here are some adorable items they have for sale:

Aren't these the sweetest tweets? In black and white from Etsy.com

For the couple who loves autumn foliage: Tree Cake Topper from Etsy.com

Can't get enough of each other? Than maybe The Love Bird Cake Topper from Etsy.com is for you!

This one is my personal favorite for a nature-loving couple: Owl Cake Topper from Etsy.com

The beauty of these personalized creations is that they are affordable, unique and something you can keep for years to come!

A Unique Destination Wedding in Jamaica

When most couples think of their destination wedding, sand and ocean are usually at the top of their minds. But with that can sometimes come the "been there, done that" kinds of hotels and resorts that can start feeling a little "vanilla" for lack of a better term.


Leah and Daivin found something a little "off the beaten path" yet in a destination that is well-known for it's spectacular oceans and beach front nuptial options; Negril Jamaica.

On the stone patio of Tensing Pen, the Canadian couple, Leah and Daivin made it official.

Cliff-side images turned out to look more like works of art than the typical wedding pictures most are used to seeing.

A classic color palette paired with modern elements, gave the entire wedding a transitional look.

We thank Leah and Daivin for sharing their wedding with us and Style-ish for sending us the gorgeous shots!

Riviera Maya - A Grand Destination

Recently I had the pleasure of visiting an exquisite destination for weddings and honeymoons - Riviera Maya, Mexico.

The area is known for it's Caribbean waters, Mayan ruins and pristine beaches and lucky for us, we got to experience all that and much more.

We stayed at the Grand Velas All-Suites and Spa Resort which was a paradise all by itself. The resort has seven gourmet restaurants, personal plunge pools, butler service, gorgeous manicured grounds and it's own little slice of the Caribbean sea.

Destination weddings here are a must as they can cater to your every need - from babysitting services to customized menus and spa outings for the ladies.


My favorite part of the resort is the spa - and although I wasn't allowed to take pictures there, I did get a few shots just outside one of their spa suites overlooking a pond surrounded by tropical flowers and plants.

Inside the spa, visitors can experience the "Water Journey" before any treatment. This 40-minute ritual includes dry and wet saunas, an ice room and a stone bed with water jets to relax every inch of your body. Heaven.

The neighboring town of Playa Del Carmen has a lively night-life and great shopping during the day. Our group of traveling journalists decided to venture down for a nightcap and uncovered the Blue Parrot. Set on the ocean, the bar feels a little like a mature "spring breakers paradise" with it's swinging bar stools and sweet cocktails followed up by the sounds of the resident DJ and fire dancers.

My husband (Tony) and I couldn't help but jump on the swinging bar stools for a picture op before ordering a cerveza.

The Mayan Ruins of Tulum were definitely a highlight of the area.

Our tour guide, Ernie, who spoke fluent Mayan - piqued our interest by telling us what each building symbolized and how the Mayans made their own hurricane warning system (which still works to this day). I won't spoil the mystery by giving it away here, just book yourself a Riviera Maya vacation and check the ruins out for yourself.

And when you begin to plan your vacation, honeymoon or destination wedding, make sure to check out Grand Velas All-Suites and Spa Resort for a fantastic place to stay!

Bridal Party Gift Idea Perfect for Your Destination Wedding

One question we get all the time at the magazine is, "what should I get my bridesmaids as a thank you gift that's meaningful and personalized?"

Because you've decided to do a destination wedding, it also needs to be portable. Jewelry is always a great idea, but many items can't be personalized or worn after the wedding, not to mention they can be expensive.

Recently we uncovered one jewelry designer who gives you everything you need - a personalized, unique gift that is easy to transport and even easier on the pocketbook.

Introducing, Lisa Leonard Designs:


Her jewelry comes in all shapes and sizes. Each piece is hand-made and can be personalized with initials or messages.

With a reasonable price tag of between $18 and $98, each one of your special ladies will be stylin' and you won't go over budget.

Personalize each piece with their names, their children's names or a sweet message to commemorate your special occasion.

I actually have the "cherish" necklace shown below and loved it so much, I ended up ordering one for a friend.

Lisa Leonard's collection includes everything from unique stamped necklaces, stackable rings, cuff bracelets and much more. To check her beautiful line, click here.

Rehearsal Dinners and Destination Weddings

When you are doing a destination wedding, there is always the question of who should be invited. Since everyone is from out of town, it's tempting to include all your guests. The rule of thumb is to invite your bridal party and their significant others, grandparents and immediate family members as well as your officiant.

But, if you are financially able, it is very considerate to be able to include your entire guest list. You may opt for a cocktail and heavy appetizer setup or ask for a very limited menu from your venue if you want to include everyone but need to keep costs down.

Recently, I visited my own backyard (Scottsdale, AZ) in search of some cool places to host a rehearsal dinner and found several! One of my favorites was Olive & Ivy. The ambiance gave an upscale casual feeling with modern contemporary and transitional design elements.

They have a few different options to choose from in regards of where you can host your gathering. Their Stamp Room seats about 30 people and overlooks their uber-hip Mediterranean style patio.

On the menu, you'll find fabulous combinations such as their savory Bacon Wrapped Medjoul Dates or their Heirloom Beet Salad topped with locally grown pistachios and goat cheese dressing. I died and went to carbohydrate heaven when we tried the Strawberry Rhubarb Fritters (it's like a french beignet and strawberry rhubarb pie had a baby and sprinkled cinnamon and sugar all over it!). You must order those when you go.

For a round-table experience with an intimate group of 12, their White Room is a gorgeous and dramatic choice. The room is perfect for a bachelorette party or bridal luncheon and has a small minimum, so it' won't break the bank.

They also have a gorgeous outdoor patio which backs up to the posh Scottsdale Waterfront which can seat up to 150 guests if you do need space for a larger party. Allison Black, Private Event Specialist, admitted that she absolutely loves having wedding parties on the patio. "We can do all kinds of private party functions - even receptions!"

The next time someone asks me where to have their special event in Scottsdale, Olive & Ivy is going to be at the top of my list, and it should be on yours too. I'll post more hot spots this summer - because hot and Scottsdale go hand in hand this time of year!

Check em' out: http://www.foxrc.com/

Save on Airfare for Your Destination Wedding or Honeymoon

Southwest Airlines is offering BIG savings - but for 48 hours only - click here to get flights from $30-$90!

If your destination wedding or honeymoon is between September 9th and November 18th, this may be the perfect time to get a serious bargain for you and all your guests. Log on to Southwest Airlines before 11:59 pacific time on July 8th, after that, the sale will turn back into a pumpkin.

Holiday Destination Weddings - Pros and Cons

Image by Damon Tucci Studios

It is very tempting to hold your destination wedding over a holiday weekend and considering we just came off a long weekend, I thought this post would be a timely one.

If you've considered this, your thought process is probably a good one, but you may want to think things through a little further.

The Pros

• People automatically have time off work - typically. This is usually the first thing couples think about and if you are planning a destination wedding, it is nice for your guests to already have paid time off.
• Your loved ones may feel more inclined to take additional time off since the office is notably slower during holiday weeks.
• Kids aren't in school, therefore it's easier for parents to bring kids with them.

The Cons

• Vacation destinations are much busier over the holidays. Three day weekends such as Memorial Day, July 4th and Labor Day are known to create additional traffic not to mention, busier restaurants and resorts.
• Travel tends to cost more over long weekends. Airlines and resorts are going to bump up their prices during these times because they know simple economics. Supply is usually less than demand.
• Your guests may already have their own plans. Holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas can create big problems for your friends if you plan to have your special event during those times. Your own family might be able to make it since they plan to be together anyway, but your friends will likely already be committed to spending time with their families.

If you are considering doing a destination wedding over a holiday weekend, consult your guests and ask around. If people are open to it and they feel it is a good idea, go for it. But if you get mixed reactions and not many "yes" RSVP's, consider yourself warned!

If you had a great or not-so-great holiday destination wedding, share your story with us. Visit our web site at www.destinationidomag.com/contact and send me an email. I'd love to hear about it and share your advice with our readers!

Destination Wedding To-Do List

As you go through the planning of your destination wedding, you'll find you are inundated with lists - registry lists, guest lists, what to pack lists etc. And while all of these are very necessary and helpful - I have another list for you:

The Stress-Free and Completely Satisfied Destination Bride List

• Hire a great wedding planner. This person will be able to deal with all of the potential drama while you stay blissfully ignorant. They will most likely be able to find you some deals too.
• Never leave your dress. Don't ship it, don't check it, don't let that thing out of your sight for any reason. Airlines have coat closets and if you call ahead of time asking permission to hang your dress, they should comply. If you decide to have UPS ship it to the foreign country you're going to and it gets stuck in customs, don't say I didn't warn you!
• Get pictures taken before your event, including the bride/groom shots. Some of you may disagree with me because of the "a groom shouldn't see his bride before she walks down the aisle" superstition, but consider this: you are going to have all kinds of emotions when you see each other for the first time. Unfortunately and fortunately you will have family and friends watching your every move as you saunter down the aisle and this is the precise moment the sobbing can start. If you want to keep it together for your nuptials, take a moment before the ceremony with your groom to have your intimate moment. The images captured at this time are priceless and you'll get to start your reception right away with your guests vs. keeping your guests waiting for hours while you take your pictures.
• Take a moment. Wherever you are throughout your event, take just 15-30 seconds to look around you. Take it in - the decor, the smells, the sounds and most importantly, the people. Let it sink in over and over - what is happening to you and who is there celebrating along with you on the most important day of your life. Time will fly by, but by doing this you'll have more clear memories than fuzzy ones.
• Have sex. There is nothing more tragic than when a couple forgoes sex on their wedding night because they are too tired! You will be tired, but it's a great way to end an already magical evening. To restart your engines, have a close friend go up to your room and draw you a hot bath, light some candles and get some mood music going.
• Laugh it off. Things may go wrong, no matter how hard you try or how many lists you create, something might fall apart. Just don't let it be you. Your perspective and outlook can easily make a great event even better if you just laugh about it.

Good luck! And have a happy 4th of July

Destination Wedding in Playa Del Carmen

Images by Jared Wilson Photography

Just recently, I had the immense pleasure of visiting a little town called Playa Del Carmen located just outside of Cancun, Mexico. Although I only visited the town for a little night cap at The Blue Parrot - this couple enjoyed it a little more intimately.

Lynora and Matt's church wedding was held on a warm April day and the couple looked flush with emotion.

The area is situated, not far from the Mayan ruins, so their photographer insisted they sneak off for some unforgettable shots.

The bridal party seemed to be in full "fiesta" spirit.

The lovely ladies at Destination Wedding Divas, put this one on and what a great job they did with the details.

We wish Lynora and Matt the best of luck in their "happily ever after," and thanks to Jared for sending us a beautiful and colorful destination wedding!