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!

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/

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/

Complimentary Destination Wedding & Anniversary Stay by Ritz-Carlton

If you plan to tie the knot between May 1st and December 20 th of this year and are considering the Ritz-Carlton for your wedding getaway, you're in luck!

By booking a Reconnect® package for a minimum of three nights and 25 rooms or more anytime between April 1st and June 30th (to be held between May 1 and December 20, 2009), you'll get a complimentary destination wedding and three night first anniversary stay.

Redeemable at any of their five hotels: The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun;
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman; The Ritz-Carlton Golf & Spa Resort, Rose Hall, Jamaica; The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas; and The Ritz-Carlton, San Juan Hotel, Spa & Casino

Up or Down? A Hair-Raising Question

Photo by Josh Andrus

As you begin planning your hair style for your destination wedding, there are several things to take into consideration:

• Are you doing an indoor or outdoor ceremony?

Outdoor events tend to be a little more casual and a loose fitting style might be a better choice than a stiff and formal updo.

• Are you planning on wearing a veil or flower in your hair?

If you plan to wear a veil or flower, make sure the style you go for compliments your accessories. Have someone take a picture of you from behind with your dress and veil on. Take one shot with your hair pinned up and one with it down. That might be just the evidence you need to make your decision.

• What kind of climate/time of year are you getting married in?

Spring/summer and fall/winter looks are vastly different - but then again, if you're getting married on the beaches of Mexico in the middle of January - you can get away with a summer look.

Photo by Melissa Jill

For balmy/breezy conditions - keep in mind that a down-do can get blown out quite quickly and end up looking like a mess for your reception. Although you may prefer your hair down, consider how it will look for pictures later on and maybe opt for a half-up/half-down look or a loose chignon. For DIY tips, log on to http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=709698n and watch a pro break it down into 3 easy steps.

Photo by Melissa Jill

Either way, if you decide to have a professional work with you, make sure to show that person a picture of what you envision and do a practice session - you won't regret the extra $50-$100 to make sure it's right. For more about destination wedding hair ideas, log on to: http://destinationidomag.com/articles_wedding_day_hair

We (HEART) New Orleans

After a whirlwind trip to New Orleans, I return with an extra spring in my step and dimple on my hindquarters from eating all the decadent food!

New Orleans captured my heart all over again. I had been once, pre-Katrina, and although our activities included the hyper touristy attractions, I loved it. This time I hoped for something a little more off the beaten track, and thanks to our new NOLA friends, they steered us in exactly the right direction. Not knowing what to expect with how much the city had changed – I was pleasantly surprised. The people are just as warm and friendly as ever, the tourism was hopping and all the Halloween events in full swing. Many people talked about their Katrina experiences with us– but not once did I hear anyone say they wish they had left and started over somewhere else. People who live there, love it – as they should. It’s one of the most amazing cities in the United States – and as for doing destination weddings there – it’s a MUST!

©joshandrus.com

Thursday night, we had our Operation Aisle Style event that benefitted Sweet Home New Orleans. What a success! The W French Quarter could not have been a more picture perfect atmosphere to hold such an event. The staff at the W Hotels in New Orleans (both the Poydras location and French Quarter) were some of the nicest people I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know. The party took place in their courtyard nestled in the middle of their hotel. Casual, modern décor fused with just the right NOLA charm and the hip style of the W made all of us feel a little romantic. And of course, when you throw Austin Scarlett’s designs (for Kenneth Pool), the guests began drooling!


©joshandrus.com

The photographer who captured the evening was Josh Andrus. We became fast friends and I quickly learned about his experience, keen artistic sense and overwhelming talent. He would be an asset to anyone’s event - be it corporate or wedding, he’s got the “it” factor like no one else in town!


©joshandrus.com

There were plenty of talented vendors there to strut their stuff – from Celeb Hair & Makeup artist, Brandy Gomez-Duplessis (she did all the gorgeous faces for the runway show) to Robye Ducote (see below) from Atelier Aucoin Salon (he did the models hair and boy did they look chic!).

©joshandrus.com

There was also cake designer – Sucre – who created two sweet masterpieces.


©joshandrus.com

X-Rated Liqueur did all the signature drinks (they even gave the drinks cute names like “X-change of Vows” and wow were they good!)

High Flyer and Bad Habit Wines poured for us all night – what a delightful team of winemakers and I promise, the wine is as great as they are!


©joshandrus.com
Our partner in crime, the original Anti-Bride, Carolyn Gerin was the co-master of ceremonies and part brainchild for this amazing event. If you don’t own her book series – you need to run, not walk, to the nearest Barnes & Noble to get them! Not only are they extremely helpful, but they are side-splitting hilarious.

©joshandrus.com

Our runway show was a hit. Each gown that made it down the steps just floated and sparkled like something I’ve never seen. Austin Scarlett knows how to design for a woman’s body and enhance all the right places.

©joshandrus.com

©joshandrus.com

©joshandrus.com

©joshandrus.com

One lucky winner took the grand prize of a 3night/4day escape to the Dominican Republic at Caleton Club & Villas. So congrats to the lucky couple!

In order to pull off this event, there were several warriors that worked like crazy to get it done - Terri Kaupp from Peter Mayer Advertising, Emily Harris from Amsale and Beth Ann Brannon from the W. They sat through endless calls and emails to get this party started - only they were a little camera shy so I can't show their lovely faces here. A big thanks to them, this event was a hit! You go girls!

As for me, well – I loved every minute of the event and when it was all said and done, ate my body weight in piping hot beignets, red beans & rice and had my fair share of Pimms as well! YUM!

Operation Aisle Style, New Orleans

YOU ARE INVITED!!!

W Hotels teamed up with the creator of the best selling Anti-Bride series and Destination I Do Magazine to throw the event of the season!

WHO You! Plus press, fashionistas, event planners, trendsetters, other brides-to-be,local luminaries, hipsters and Page 6-ers.

WHAT W Hotels knows how to add WOW to your vows, and how to do it just a little bit differently. Operation Aisle Style is a party, a fashion show and an epicurean adventure inspired by intrepid travelers, libertines, alterna-wedding wunderkinds, Carolyn Gerin, creator of the best-selling Anti-Bride series by Chronicle Books, and Jennifer Stein, publisher of Destination I Do Magazine, the premiere international romance travel magazine in partnership with the uber-hip, chicly romantic, W New Orleans – French Quarter.

WHEN Thursday, October 30, 2008, 7 pm – 10 pm

WHERE W New Orleans - French Quarter, 316 Rue Chartres

WOW! Romance, mystery, and old world glamour await you at the W New Orleans – French Quarter. Includes: Fashion show with signature styles by Project Runways Austin Scarlett, makeup tips and tricks area, professional photo session, libations and nibbles in the Courtyard, a raffle of coveted items for your trousseau and swag bags with booty for your beauty.

Let us take you behind the scenes to your picture perfect day:

• Sip signature cocktails created especially for the bride and groom featuring X-Rated Fusion Liqueur and divine wines with pairings by the wine makers of Somerston Winery, featuring Napa Valley’s notorious Bad Habit and High Flyer wines with the inspired cuisine of our W - New Orleans chefs.


• At the stroke of 7 pm, witness the “Operation Aisle Style” bridal fashion show bringing you the hippest bridal styles hot off the runway from our prince of aisle style, Project Runways Austin Scarlett and more, and then onto the most regal and rockin’ reception of the year in the W's wildly romantic French Quarter Courtyard.


• Event participants/Co-promoters: Chronicle Books (publisher of Anti-Bride series and Cooking Up a Storm), Avant Guides (creator of Avant Guides, New Orleans edition), Destination I Do Magazine, Anti-Bride Productions, Somerston Wines, X-Rated Fusion Liqueur, Celebrity Make-up Artist Brandy from bgdmakeupartistry.com, Caleton Club & Villas, W New Orleans – French Quarter and more will make it the high profile event of the season.


• Help us donate dollars to Sweet Home New Orleans, an organization dedicated to rebuilding the homes of New Orleans’ beloved musical community, lost to hurricane Katrina.


• Fabulous Prizes furnished by: Avant Guides, Chronicle Books, Destination I Do Magazine, W New Orleans – French Quarter, Caleton Club & Villas and Somerston Wines. One lucky winner will receive a 3-night/4-day luxury honeymoon getaway at Caleton Club & Villas, located in the 'world's new great destination' of Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic. Prize trip includes accommodations in an ocean side bungalow, breakfast daily and private transfers to/from the Punta Cana International Airport. Good luck!


• Prepare to be tagged by our roving photojournalists and noticed on all the social sites right after the party in a fabulous photo essay documenting the revelry.

Click here for more info on the event.

Click here to RSVP via email.


You must be 21 to enter and tickets are $10 at the door. Proceeds go to Sweet Home New Orleans.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

Luxury Retreats at Cap Cana

This past weekend I had the honor of traveling to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. The place we stayed rivaled just about any I've ever been to. A private butler, personal plunge pool and 3 bedroom villa overlooking the golf course and sparkling Caribbean sea, to name just a few of the amenities. The development where Luxury Retreats is located is called Cap Cana. Inside Cap Cana there are several places undergoing construction and will be completed by the end of the year. Here's a few images of our 3 bedroom villa:

The first day, we had a lot of leisure time on our hands, so straight to the business center I went. This is how people get work done in DR, blackberry in hand, with a little sand between the toes. I think I may have just found my home away from home. The Luxury Retreats at Cap Cana have their own private beach. It's directly in front of the Caleton Beach Club and Villas.

The beach is like a postcard. The sand is liked powdered sugar, so white and soft. It was hard to leave this scene.

But I drug myself away from my "office" and back to the villa to get ready for dinner on the beach. They had live music and a sample tasting menu which one might experience at their wedding reception. There was one dish they served - Baked Goat Cheese with Tomato and Onion Jelly. The goat cheese was nestled in baked fillo dough and drizzled with some kind of sauce which I didn't catch. WOW! I ate every bite and was tempted to lick the plate. Food at Cap Cana was a "died and went to heaven" kind of experience. All of the menus were paired with fine wines and champagne. The band asked us if we had any requests. Being it was a romantic setting we asked for something fitting. They played us "Yesterday" by the Beatles, and it sounded beautiful. A perfect ending to a perfect day.

The next day we had breakfast in the villa - our butler, Robinson, brought us fresh fruit and granola each day. Robinson was as sweet as can be, we all equally fell in love with him. He even taught one of the journalists how to do the merengue. Then we took a tour of the other villas and bungalows that makes up Luxury Retreats at Cap Cana. They have 3&4 bedroom villas and several 1 & 2 bedroom bungalows. Here's a few pictures of the property. Simply gorgeous!Each bungalow had outdoor showers and were located right on the ocean. I can imagine the waves just singing a happy newlywed couple to sleep. So romantic and secluded enough to feel like you're on your own private island. Here's a walkway down from one of the bungalows, you can step right into the ocean!

Another turn around the bend and we see some multiple bedroom villas.

Then we went to Farallón for lunch (a great Japanese inspired restaurant) this view overlooks Trump's development at Cap Cana.
That night, they sent us on a champagne cruise.

As we were leaving the marina, I caught this picture of the area surrounding it. There are lots of residences and places to stay, eat and play.

Although we had a spectacular sunset, all the passengers were happy when we sped up as the water was a little choppy that night making it hard not to get sea sick. But we made it back without incident and onto a delicious dinner at the Marina.

Again we started our day with Robinson bringing us granola and fruit, then off to Juanillo beach - this is where a couple or their wedding guests can partake in water sports and activities. The beach was out of this world!

This is a picture of Marilyn Cairo and Jennifer Walters. Marilyn (left) handles the marketing for Cap Cana and its properties while Jennifer handles the PR. Quite a lovely and dynamic duo!

Seriously. This image hasn't been touched up in the least. It was breathtaking.

Things to do at Cap Cana are endless. Golf, spa treatments, water sports, fishing or soaking up sun on one of these world renowned beaches are just a few ideas.

Cap Cana has countless places to get married too. They have generous packages in several price ranges, so don't immediately jump to the conclusion that this place is too expensive. It's no Holiday Inn, but you'd be surprised how much you get for the money. Everything they do here is top notch - the flowers, the food, the accommodations. It's a honeymooners and/or destination wedding goers paradise. I promise, you will not be disappointed.

New on Newsstands!

Cover photo by Rebecca Bouck Photography

That's right - it's new! And in my personal opinion, our best yet. This Fall/Winter issue of Destination I Do covers domestic and exotic locations along with a very special celebrity wedding (Chris Kattan and Sunshine Tutt) and an extremely helpful "Guide to Wedding Gowns" giving you an idea on how to dress your shape, not your size.

We have many of our same contributors back again, but also some new faces and places to help you in your quest of planning the greatest day of your life. You'll find helpful editorial on places to tie the knot and are perfect for your rustic chic getaway, spots in the Caribbean that will blow your mind, but not your bank account.

We all know that the economy is putting a strain on our spending - but that shouldn't mean you have to settle. This issue has some great places (such as Thailand) where you can stretch your dollar further but keep the elegance in tact.

You can find the magazine on newsstands nationwide or feel free to order a copy right off our web site!