Sea meets sky at The Verandah Resort & Spa, where you can reconnect with nature, your loved ones and yourself. This eco-friendly island resort offers 30 spectacular beachfront acres on Antigua’s northeast coast overlooking a tranquil bay. The Verandah’s idyllic Caribbean village ambiance is bound to inspire closeness and relaxation. It’s the perfect choice for romantic getaways, with the perfect mix of activities, including kayaking, snorkeling, windsurfing, and more. Unwind at the island’s largest free-form swimming pool or indulge in rejuvenating and exotic treatments at the resort’s signature Spa Tranquility spa. Whether you want to seek adventure or soak in the natural beauty at this all-inclusive island hideaway, The Verandah Resort & Spa is the perfect locale to celebrate and share new experiences!
We can all agree that Paris, France is THE city to embrace and celebrate love! It’s the perfect locale where passion explodes at every corner; from the breathtaking scenery, historic streets, and breathtaking landmarks that has us dreaming of romance. Mara and Conrad’s fairy tale wedding captured by Maxime Desessard Photographe is one that will not only have you fall madly in love for the City of Lights, but will have you ‘oooh la la-ing’ over every one of their wedding images.
When Mara and Conrad began planning their wedding, they knew Paris, France, was the perfect locale to host their destination wedding as this location holds emotional significance to their relationship. Additionally, it was an ideal geographical location for both families to meet in the middle. Mara and Conrad agreed, “It was surreal to have so many of our closest family and friends come from different corners of the world to be there for us, meet each other, and to experience a city that has meant so much to us as a couple.”
“It was surreal to have so many of our closest family and friends come literally from different corners of the world (from New Jersey to South Africa) to be there for us, to all meet each other, and to experience a city that has meant so much to us as a couple.”
The ceremony took place at The American Church, where the bride walked down the aisle wearing a stunning blush-colored Sareh Nouri wedding gown featuring a fitted bodice and dramatic organza skirt embellished with roses. Conrad sported a classic black Hugo Boss tuxedo with ivory bow tie.
ollowing the ceremony, the newlyweds, along with their guests, boarded the Seine River Cruise for their cocktail hour. As they viewed many prominent sights of Paris, guests were served a variety of specialty hors d’oeuvres prepared by Traiteur Tradition Française, while being entertained by La Planche à Dixie jazz band.
At the end of the boat cruise, the celebration continued at the historical Restaurant Le Procope, which was known for hosting intellectuals, revolutionaries, and philosophers in its day.
Centerpieces of ivory and blush roses completed each tablescape design, as Mara and Conrad wanted the main focus to be kept on Restaurant Le Procope’s dramatic architecture.
Tell us about your wedding proposal: Conrad proposed in South Africa (where he is from), in a beach town along South Africa’s garden route, where he spent summers growing up. He proposed on the terrace of our room, overlooking a beautiful sunset. I was completely surprised because I thought he was just being extra romantic that day for our anniversary. I started crying when I realized what was happening, and of course, said yes!
Bride’s favorite memory of the day: It had been raining in the morning, so walking out onto the boat after the ceremony and seeing the sun come out just in time for the cruise down the Seine was probably our favorite memory. That, and seeing our families and friends from all over the word meet each other and enjoy each other’s company.
What was the most exciting part of planning your wedding? Tasting the food and cake was definitely the most fun. We also enjoyed an excuse to take dancing lessons!
Where did you go on your honeymoon? We went to southern Spain for our honeymoon because we wanted to stay in Europe, but still have nice warm weather in mid-October. We started out on the Costa del Sol, in a beach town outside of Malaga, and rented a car which gave us the flexibility to take day trips to Marbella, Ronda, Grenada. We spent a few days relaxing in Seville, and ended with a few days in Madrid before flying back to New York. We loved trying all of the different tapas and tasting the delicious Spanish wine in the different cities.
Do you have any advice for couples that are planning their wedding? Have fun [with the planning], even when its gets stressful. In the end, it is an incredibly happy day that you are planning and nothing can really go that badly in the end. Also remain true to yourselves and not feel pressured to stick to any specific traditions that don’t seem meaningful to you. Do what makes you both happy!
Mara & Conrad
October 13, 2012
Restaurant Le Procope • Paris, France
In The Spotlight:
Ceremony Location: The American Church / Celebrant: Dr. Joseph Indano / Reception Location: Restaurant Le Procope / Cocktail Hour Caterer: Traiteur Tradition Française / Photographer: Maxime Desessard Photographe / Wedding Coordinator: Dreams in Paris / Ceremony Music: Eloise Renand (Violinist) & Fred Gramann (Organist) / Entertainment: La Planche à Dixie / Florist: L’atelier Vertige Marais / Limousine Service: Star Limos / Cake Designer: Wedding Cakes Avenue / Bridal Salon & Veil: Exquisite Bride / Shoes: Badgley Mischka / Formal Attire: Hugo Boss / Invitations: Invitations by JoAnn / Favors: Miniature Wine Bottles / Hair Salon & Makeup Studio: Murielle Palace / Jeweler: Timeless Diamonds / Honeymoon Locations: Southern Spain
A sociable club-like ambiance prevails throughout this secluded all-inclusive Antigua resort located on the southeastern coast. At its heart of St. James’s Club, lie guest rooms, restaurants and recreational opportunities of The Club, while The Village is an adjacent sanctuary of residential-style villas tumbling set on a gentle hillside towards the bay. By day, there are two beaches and four swimming pools, as well as a variety of on-site activities to keep all age groups entertained. After dark, there is a choice of four restaurants set either in the gardens, on the hillside or right down by the water’s edge. This exclusive hideaway is the perfect honeymoon escape where romance, relaxation, and adventure are combined for the ultimate getaway.
Paradise comes to life at “The Most Alluring Destination in the Caribbean”, Sandals LaSource Grenada. Known as the “Island of Spice”, Grenada is home to some of the most natural wonders in the Caribbean offering spectacular beaches, waterfalls, lush rain forests, and mountain lakes. Romance meets world class luxury at this exotic hideaway featuring 231 rooms and suites including mahogany furniture and modern bathrooms of marble and stone decor. Soak up the warm Caribbean sun on the beach, at one of three pools plus two river pools or at the nearby beach club complete with fire pits, Jacuzzi, and picturesque views.
The Westin Aruba Resort & Csino is the perfect island destination, offering the charm of the Dutch Caribbean, a magnificent beach, glittering casino, and a host of outdoor pleasures. Located on the luxurious strip of Palm Beach, Aruba, amidst sparkling blue water and soft sand beaches, we invite you to create the memories of a lifetime. Enjoy sailing, windsurfing, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, and golf. Take a refreshing swim in the ocean. Drift in our gorgeous seaside pool, or relax with a relaxing massage, body wrap of facial at the spa. Discover the ideal blend of Caribbean warmth and Las Vegas-style excitement at The Westin Aruba Resort & Casino!
An oasis of European grandeur, Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa Resort Spa Resort & Offshore Island is considered to be “the pearl of the Caribbean”. Seductive beaches and crystalline waters embrace tropical gardens and opulent suites that exude serenity. During your all-inclusive stay, escape to the romantic offshore island just minutes away with two secluded coastlines, a chic beach club, signature pool with swim-up bar, the Red Lane Spa, and the region’s best seafood house. This resort recently unveiled their new Balmoral Tower offering new rooms, suites with oversized balconies, and a sophisticated lobby with marble floors. Sandals Royal Bahamian is the best of all worlds, boasting European elegance and island romance wrapped up in one unforgettable getaway.
Marital bliss begins on a romantic honeymoon at the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino. Bask under the warm Caribbean sun as the famous trade winds caress your skin as you succumb to the islands pristine beach and turquoise waters. Nestled on Aruba’s famous Palm Beach with crystal clear water and swaying palms, this eight-story complex is home to 411 oversized guest rooms and suite accommodations (all of which feature spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea), a pool with cascading waterfalls, seven bars and restaurants, Mandara Spa, Stellaris Casino, and the Tradewinds Club. Leave your worries behind and enjoy this ideal destination for discerning travelers seeking the ultimate vacation. For more information visit http://www.ArubaMarriott.com and enter to win an 8-day, 7-night unforgettable honeymoon at one of Aruba’s luxury resorts here!
Your home away from home awaits you at this tiny eco-island resort located in the British Virgin Islands. Set on the pristine shores of Manchioneel Bay, Cooper Island Beach Club is surrounded by lush landscapes of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. While this locale is known for some of the best diving and snorkeling sites in the world, there are other daily activities to participate in from kayaking, swimming, boating, and fishing. Another island favorite is relaxing amid swaying palms and local wildlife, making this the perfect escape for your honeymoon. Accommodations at Cooper Island Beach Resort include beach front cottages with spectacular views of The Sir Francis Drake Channel and the islands beyond and feature eco-friendly amenities. For more information visit http://www.cooperislandbeachclub.com.
If romance is what you’re leaning towards for your honeymoon, then pack your bags and head to Aphrodite’s Island. Paradise meets rich history at this destination that is said to be the birthplace of the Aphrodite (the Greek Goddess of love and beauty). The adults-only Le Méridien Limassol Spa & Resort provides world-class service amid one of the most breathtaking and romantic locales in the third largest island in the Mediterranean. From spacious guest rooms and adults-only rooms to executive suites, villas, and bungalows, all hotel accommodations provide 5-star luxury and amenities for the sophisticated and discerning traveler. Whether you’re craving Mediterranean, Japanese, French, or Italian, taste cuisine from around the world at one of eight restaurants at the resort. Seek adventure, participate in a variety of activities, or get pampered at the award-winning spa. For more information visit http://www.lemeridienlimassol.com.
“Play on the beach, on the green, or on the tables at the all in one deluxe Aruba resort.” Located steps away from the white sanded beaches with spectacular views of the Caribbean ocean is the Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort. Choose from spacious accommodations of studios, one, and two-bedroom suites, or premium golf view suites located along the course and fronted by a magnificent free-form pool with swim access bar. During your stay, indulge in gourmet cuisine while enjoying lush panoramic landscapes or participate in a variety of land and sea activities. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or want to relax under a swaying palm, the possibilities are endless. Can you imagine relaxing at this pristine locale and enjoying all that Aruba has to offer? We sure are!
