Welcome to Destination I Do Magazine's Blog!

As an extension of our growing magazine and web site, we wanted to reach out a little further and start a blog. I hope you find this is another helpful tool in creating the spectacular destination wedding, honeymoon or romantic getaway you've been dreaming of.

If you'd like to visit our HOME PAGE, go to:
www.destinationidomag.com
Showing posts with label Affordable Alternatives. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Affordable Alternatives. Show all posts

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Save $4500 on a Destination Wedding in Mexico

Lovers looking to tie the knot with a destination wedding need look no further than Marquis Los Cabos, the beachfront Baja California Sur resort that now features a "Take the Cake" package.

Complimentary for the bride and groom when a wedding group of 10 rooms minimum are booked for three nights or 15 rooms for two nights, the package offers $4,500 in savings.

The "Take the Cake" package includes:
  • an ocean-view casita with private pool on their wedding night
  • two 50-minute Aromatic Massages
  • a chilled bottle of champagne
  • a romantic gift basket
  • daily in-suite breakfast discreetly delivered via a private alcove
  • a one year anniversary certificate for a complimentary three night stay
  • tuxedo and wedding dress pressing
  • bridal bouquet and groom's boutonniere
  • mani-pedi for the bride
  • signature welcome drink"Take the Cake" package.

In addition, a professional wedding coordinator will arrange everything from the wedding location to the photography and minister. Special room rates starting at $295 are available for groups. For more information on the Marquis Los Cabos Resort, click here, or call 877.238.9399.

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Inspired Details for Destination Weddings

By Kate Darnell

Today, we're putting together a few inspired ideas for your upcoming destination wedding.

In order to have the wedding of your dreams, you have to have a clear vision, but not necessarily deep pockets. Roses can many times be a lower cost flower compared to Calla Lillis or orchids. Below is a creation by talented floral designer, Anny Heid, which gives a fresh perspective on a traditional wedding bouquet. (Image by Christiaan Phleger)


A loose-fitting up-do is a popular choice for many brides. Add a fresh orchid and voilĂ ! Your look comes together and complements the look of your casual and elegant beach nuptials. Keep in mind that you may want a few extra flowers on hand in case they begin to wilt in the hot temperatures. (Image by L'amour Photography)


For the junior bridesmaids, giving them something that's a little easier to hold on to is a good option. This design is small yet, has the desired impact. Florals by Anny Heid (Image by L'amour Photography)

If you're having a nautical themed wedding, but aren't into the "cliche" nautical look, below is a good compromise. The design is by Dabney Lee.

If you're looking for a modern take on a black & white invite - add a pop of fuchsia! Below is a great Save the Date option from Dabney Lee.

As Save the Date magnets go, this one is fun for those of you who love a cute cartoon. Plus they are very affordable! By PosePrints

If you prefer to send the standard paper invite, they make those too. By PosePrints.


If you have inspired ideas, we'd love for you to share them. Email us at info@destinationidomag.com with your favorite new (or old) ideas!

Monday, August 3, 2009

Free Destination Weddings for 2010


Elegant Hotels Group gives brides and grooms a gift that they can really use – a free destination wedding in 2010!

Couples can qualify for the new Free Wedding Packages at the five distinctive Caribbean beachfront hotels and resorts dotted along the west and south coasts of Barbados including Turtle Beach Resort, Crystal Cove Hotel, Colony Club Hotel, Tamarind Cove Hotel and The House.

The Free Wedding Packages at Elegant Hotels Group includes:
• Wedding coordinator
• Marriage license and registration
• Services of magistrate/ priest/ minister
• Local transport to/from registration office
• Bride’s bouquet & groom’s boutonniere
• Best Man, Maid of Honor and/ or witnesses if required
• Bottle of Champagne for the wedding ceremony
• Single tier wedding cake
• All taxes and gratuities

Extra Incentive: Enjoy a three-night stay to celebrate First Anniversary one-year from date of marriage ceremony with Elegant Hotels Group.

To visit their entire hotel collection, click here.

Thursday, July 30, 2009

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!

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

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

Monday, July 27, 2009

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!

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

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!

Monday, July 13, 2009

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.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

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/

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

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.

Monday, June 29, 2009

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!

Monday, June 22, 2009

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?

Friday, June 19, 2009

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

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

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/

Monday, June 15, 2009

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 SazĂłn, 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

Thursday, June 11, 2009

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

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

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.

Monday, June 8, 2009

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/

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

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

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

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!