Have your guests wave ribbon wands as you and your groom make your grand exit from the wedding ceremony. While most locations no longer allow bird seed, rice, or sparklers, ribbon wands are a unique alternative that will provide a wonderful photo opp.

Photo by The Studio Photographers

Located just 75 miles from Florida on Grand Bahama Island is The Grand Lucayan Beach and Golf Resort. Boasting pristine stretches of secluded beachfront, wildlife, and tropical gardens,this locale is the second most popular tourist destination in the Bahamas. Throughout the year expect sub-tropical climate with the average temperatures between 80 and 90 degrees.

Savor delicious cuisine at Churchill’s fine dining restaurant providing Mediterranean-inspired meals or indulge in culture-inspired menu options at one of the casual restaurants.

Accommodations at the resort offer various types of rooms to fit every guest’s need. Enjoy rooms with Caribbean-inspired decor paired with in-room amenities from traditional to one or two-bedroom suites, all of which give way to beautiful views of the island, marina, or ocean.

For those who are planning on tying the knot, Grand Bahama Island provides a picture perfect backdrop to say “I Do”. The Grand Lucayan offers a variety of wedding packages paired with experiences wedding planners to ensure each celebration is a day to remember. Additionally, Grand Bahama Island is the closest Caribbean destination to the United States- making travel easier for your guests.

Enjoy a variety of endless activities from non-motorized watersports to tennis, golf, and live entertainment. For those who seek adventure, swimming with dolphins, and horseback riding are just a few of the excursions available. For more information and to start planning your destination wedding, visit http://www.grandlucayan.com.

High school sweethearts Colleen and Christopher attended elementary school together, but it wasn’t until their senior year of high school in 2003 that they became a couple. During the first year of dating Colleen knew Christopher was “the one”, as she couldn’t imagine not having him around in the future. Seven and a half years later, the two took a spontaneous trip to New York City, and as they enjoyed a romantic evening through Central Park on a horse drawn carriage ride, Christopher asked Colleen to marry him. Colleen reminisced, “I was so surprised and excited I could barely get the yes out!”

When the newly engaged couple began planning their wedding, Colleen and Christopher knew they wanted it to be a simple and elegant affair where they had the option of having an outdoor ceremony. Branches Catering met all of their requirements; from a warm and welcoming ambiance to an accommodating staff with exceptional service. “There was nothing that met our expectations prior to visiting Branches,” Christopher commented.

The ceremony took place amid the picturesque garden at Branches Catering, where Colleen and Christopher exchanged vows surrounded by beautiful landscaping. The bride donned a sweetheart strapless fitted gown featuring a chapel train, buttons down the back, and an embellished sash. Her hair was styled half up with soft curls by Mari Milani of My Cinderella’s Dream. Christopher sported a traditional black, three-button tuxedo, while his groomsmen wore the same tuxedo with grey vests to coordinate with the bridesmaid’s charcoal grey Alfred Angelo dresses.

Having worked with the photographer before, the couple chose Bryan Duggan to take their wedding photos, and they were very pleased with their pictures.

Following their ceremony, guests enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres of miniature hamburgers, French fries, raspberry and brie pastries, fried ravioli, miniature crab cakes, scallops wrapped in bacon and coconut chicken skewers, in addition to an Italian and sushi table. Rather than a traditional sit down dinner, Colleen and Christopher opted for a cocktail reception where guests were able to leisurely eat a variety of food including a carving station, satay station, Mediterranean pasta station, and a Mexican fajita and quesadilla station.

“All of the food was excellent. The best part was being able to pick out what you wanted to eat and how often you wanted it. There were choices for everyone including vegetarians,” noted Colleen. “The staff at Branches did a great job. They always made sure we had what we wanted,” added the groom.

The ballroom was decorated flawlessly with the help of Brick Flower Market. Their centerpieces featured seven large calla lilies and branches set in tall clear vases embellished with a gray ribbon tied around the vase. Votive candles, ivory table linens with a gray overlay, and silver chiavari chairs completed their flawless tablescape. “We gave Brick Flower Market pictures of the arrangements we liked and they were able to create everything exactly as we envisioned,” commented Colleen.

An assortment of cookies, pastries, and a chocolate dipping fountain, were served for dessert, along with red velvet cake with cream cheese filling, and butter cream frosting.

Daddy Pop from 107 Productions entertained guests throughout the evening with their six piece band. For their first dance as husband and wife, Colleen and Christopher held the spotlight to “You and Me” by Lifehouse, which was the groom’s favorite memory of the day. Following their special day, Colleen and Christopher escaped to St. Lucia for their honeymoon, where they stayed at Sandals Halcyon Beach Resort.

Colleen & Christopher
July 16, 2011
Branches Catering • West Long Branch, NJ

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony & Reception Location: Branches Catering
Officiant: Russell Hicks
Photographer: Bryan Duggan Photography
Entertainment: Daddy Pop – 107 Productions
Florist: Brick Flower Market
Limousine Service: Andiamo Limousine Services
Cake Designer: Chocolate Carousel
Bridal Salon & Veil: Cinderella Bridals • Headpiece: Tiger Lily
Formal Attire: Black Tie Optional
Invitation Designer: Alicia Lazur
Favors: My M&M’s
Hair Salon & Makeup Studio: My Cinderella’s Dream
Honeymoon Location: Sandals Halcyon Beach Resort, St. Lucia

Turn heads as you walk down the aisle and wear striking blue wedding shoes. Not only do they make a fun photo opp, but can also serve as your something blue.

Photo by Milton Gil Photographers

“On your wedding day, experience something spectacular.” With it’s sophistication and elegance, the Wilshire Grand Catering is ideal for weddings and special events.

Outside is an enchanting garden area with a gazebo and fountains. This picturesque locale  is a perfect backdrop for your wedding ceremony or to take your formal pictures.

From the moment you walk into the lobby you will be impressed by the charm and unique style of the facility.

The Wilshire Grand Caterers pride themselves in providing excellent service and top-quality cuisine. Your guests will delight in menu selections featuring unparalleled continental cuisine tailored to fit your budget and tastes.

The exquisite ballroom at The Wilshire Grand Hotel will provide an elegant backdrop for your special occasion. The regal sophistication of the Regency Room is perfect for a formal gathering of 100-250 guests, while the elaborate Tuscany room is ideal for gatherings of 300-400 people. The Grand Ballroom sparkles with extravagance with crystal chandeliers and hand-painted murals. The large dance floor and luxurious decor provides a romantic ambiance for weddings and special events of 400-525 guests.

Click HERE for more information on the Wilshire Grand Caterers.

Wilshire Grand Caterers
350 Pleasant Way, West Orange, NJ
973-736-3240

Add drama to your wedding day attire with a striking red wedding bouquet and matching boutonniere designed by Rosie Posies. For an ultra-glam look, embellish with rhinestones and a brooch on the stems.

Photography by The Studio Photographers

Bride Tips to help you through the wedding planning process from Contemporary Bride.

The all-inclusive Sandos Playacar Beach Resort & Spa is nestled on a magnificent white sandy beach just a short distance from Playa del Carmen in Mexico. Enjoy seclusion and stay in the exclusive adults-only section of the resort, stretched along the spectacular 18-hole golf course. Accommodations offer 276 rooms of junior and master suites allowing for maximum privacy from the rest of the hotel. Throughout your stay participate in a variety of activities including swimming, watersports, nightly entertainment and excursions.

The end of the Mayan calendar signifies the beginning of a new era making 2013 an ideal time to get married, renew vows, or start your marriage journey with a honeymoon. Sandos Playacar Beach Resort & Spa offers personalized attention and various packages to choose from. For more information visit http://www.sandos.com.

Claire and Michael met through mutual friends during their sophomore year of college. “I immediately recognized that Michael had a very friendly and easygoing way about him,” Claire recalled. The two were dating other people at the time and although they lost touch, they were reconnected again the very last week of college in May of 1999. Claire and Michael began dating and a decade later, Michael presented Claire with a solitaire engagement ring from Jay Roberts Jewelers.

Finally August 27,, 2011 arrived and brought with it a big surprise. Although Hurricane Irene was on her way, Claire remained calm and was excited to begin prepping for her wedding. Claire was on the phone with the coordinator at 3 West Club finalizing last minute seating changes as Jeanine of Jeanine Mangan Makeup Designs flawlessly applied her makeup and Handri Gunawan styled her hair into a traditional chignon. Claire and her bridesmaids then met up with Michael and his groomsmen for pre-ceremony photos, shot by Chae Kihn of Harold Hechler Photographers. Kihn shot a mix of classic portraits, candid and posed shots, and black and white photos that the couple absolutely loved.

The ceremony was held at Cathedral of Saint Patrick in New York City where Claire’s parents had been married. Claire walked down the aisle in an off-white Alencon lace gown designed by Tomasina and a cathedral-length veil. Gold peep-toe Jimmy Choo heels and Swarovski crystal drop earrings completed the bride’s look. She carried a bouquet of white and cream roses. Claire’s bridesmaids wore navy blue silk chiffon gowns and carried bouquets of lavender sterling roses. Michael sported a traditional black tuxedo, as did his best man and groomsmen.

The bridesmaids’ carried lavender sterling roses to complement their navy blue chiffon dresses, which coordinated nicely with the groomsmen attire.

The reception was held at 3 West Club, which is a private club built in 1921 on the site of Andrew Carnegie’s former home. Claire and Michael were pleased with the overall service from the staff. The bride commented, “They were so efficient and exacting that I didn’t need to focus on them at all, which is the way it should be!” During cocktail hour, guests enjoyed a variety of hors d’oeuvres in addition to passed champagne in flutes. Dinner began with a sea scallop risotto with porcini mushrooms, followed by salad and a duo intermezzo of lemon and lime sorbets, garnished with fresh fruit and mint. For their main entrées, guests had a choice of filet mignon in perigourdine sauce or sautéed halibut.

The reception décor was traditional, with intricate centerpieces of amnesia roses, pink and green hydrangea, silver brunia, lavender lisianthus, and delicate variegated ivory. The room was tastefully lit by Stortz Lighting. There were pin spots on each table composition, a color wash on the dance floor, some uplighting throughout the ballroom, and a soft spotlight on the band.

Hank Lane Music played a mixture of standards and swing with contemporary pieces mixed in. The band performed “Bei Mir Bist Du Schoen” for Michael and Claire’s first dance as husband and wife. The bride commented, “Hank Lane’s reputation precedes them. They are one of the most highly recognized entertainment companies in Manhattan.”

The wedding cake was a three-tiered masterpiece of alternating layers of chocolate raspberry and vanilla with a raspberry cream designed by Madame Butterfly Cakes.

Claire and Michael thanked their guests for being a part of their special day by sending them home with a personal favorite, blueberry, lemon, vanilla, and chocolate flavored macaroons from Bouchon Bakery. Following their wedding day, the newlyweds escaped on their honeymoon to Capri and Rome.

Claire & Michael
August 27,2011
3 West Club • New York, NY

In The Spotlight
Ceremony Location: Cathedral of Saint Patrick
Celebrant: Reverend Christopher Pliauplis
Reception Location: 3 West Club
Photographer: Hechler Photographers
Entertainment: Hank Lane Music and Productions
Florist: Chestnuts in the Tuileries
Limousine Service: Silver Star Limousine
Cake Designer: Madame Butterfly Cakes
Bridal Salon: Exquisite Bride & Designer Loft
Veil: Exquisite Bride • Shoes: Jimmy Choo
Formal Attire: Coleman’s Tuxedos
Invitations: Dempsey & Carroll
Favors: Bouchon Bakery
Hair Salon: Marie Bové Salon • Makeup Artist: Jeanine Mangan Makeup Designs
Jeweler: Jay Roberts Jewelers • Lighting: Stortz Lighting
Honeymoon Location: Rome Cavalieri, Rome & Hotel Punta Tragara, Capri― Italy

Part of the Fall 2012 bridal collection, this ivory organza Lazaro gown (LZ3253) features a sweetheart illusion neckline with jewel tulle overlay, sheer corset Alencon lace bodice, layered asymmetrical organza skirt, and chapel train. For more information and to find a retailer near you, visit http://www.jlmcouture.com/lazaro.