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.

When Inna and Daniel began planning their March 31, 2012 destination wedding, they knew they wanted a celebration that would encompass love, romance, and fun, among the most important people in their lives. Amid a pristine Caribbean locale, combining world-class service, luxurious amenities, and spectacular views, guests gathered at Paradisus Playa del Carmen for a celebration of a lifetime.

About five months prior to the wedding, Inna spent October 20, 2011 in New York City to attend several business meetings. Upon arriving home, she was greeted with romantic candles that led from the front door to the living room, where Daniel was waiting on bended knee. She immediately began crying, threw her arms around him, and said “yes!” While the proposal was happening, Inna’s parents and sister were outside witnessing this wonderful occasion. “Words cannot explain the joy and happiness my parents felt in being able to share this very special moment with us. What a special gift Daniel gave my parents and me, and I will thank him for this forever,” Inna reminisced.

Guests were invited to the celebration with invitations from Wedding Paper Divas’ “Stylish Starfish” collection. The heavy textured cardstock featured ecru-colored scrollwork and tangerine starfish. Coordinating travel and accommodations enclosure cards were also included, which provided additional information.

The wedding day preparations began early for the bride, who began prepping at YHI Spa with her bridesmaids, mother, and mother-in-law. As the women were pampered to perfection with hair and makeup, the groom joined his father-in-law for breakfast and enjoyed a few hours relaxing with his groomsmen on the beach.

After seeing each other for the first time, which was Inna and Daniel’s favorite memory of the day, the couple signed the ketubah (Jewish marriage certificate) and proceeded with the gazebo ceremony. Inna walked down the aisle wearing a beautiful Marisa trumpet-style gown with an asymmetrical silk ruched bodice and accordion-style organza skirt. Custom silk flowers embellished with Swarovski crystals and a French-cage veil completed her look flawlessly. Daniel wore a signature two-button tan suit with an ecru herringbone spread collar dress shirt and classic Michael Kors striped tie. As the sun was setting, the couple exchanged vows surrounded by their closest family and friends.

Following the ceremony, the newlyweds and guests headed to the poolside reception, which was beautifully decorated with ivory silk organza draping the walls and ceiling. Low centerpieces of lush blooms, candles, antique table number frames, and custom “thank you” stationery completed each tablescape design, while a three-column backdrop made of tangerine rose petals was set behind the sweetheart table.

Matt and Jonathan of Del Sol Photography captured the day’s events in a photojournalistic style. “Not only is Del Sol’s reputation outstanding, but their work speaks for itself. We were both absolutely amazed while looking through their recent work,” commented Inna.

Guests thoroughly enjoyed the reception from the eclectic mix of music of today’s top hits, Russian, Italian, and Spanish songs provided by DJ Pushkin, to the customized menu options. Cocktail hour began with light fare of sushi, empanadas, spring rolls, Spanish tortillas, and cheese and nut tarts, followed with a goat cheese salad appetizer and an entrée choice of sea bass with tapenade, beef filet, or chicken breast stuffed with spinach and pine nuts. “The food was extraordinary. We were able to mix and match food selections from different menus to create a truly customized menu and food experience for our guests,” noted Inna. Chocolate and raspberry mille feuille was served for dessert, along with the two-tiered almond wedding cake with fresh berry filling.

At the end of the wedding weekend, Inna and Daniel headed to Excellence Riviera Cancun for their honeymoon.

Inna & Daniel
March 31, 2012
Paradisus Playa del Carmen • Mexico

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony & Reception Location: Paradisus Playa del Carmen
Officiant: Gabriela Macedo
Photographer: Del Sol Photography
Ceremony Music & Entertainment: DJ Pushkin
Florist: Eventos Euforia
Wedding Coordinator: Alquima Events
Cake Designer: Paradisus Playa del Carmen
Bridal Gown Designer: Marisa
Headpiece & Veil: Annie Hammer Jewelry • Shoes: Nina Shoes
Formal Attire: JoS. A. Bank
Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas
Favors: Custom Welcome Bags
Hair Salon & Makeup Studio: YHI Spa
Aisle Runner: Original Runner Co.
Honeymoon Location: Excellence Riviera Cancun- Riviera Maya, Mexico

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.

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.

“Find pleasure in every sense.” The adults-only, all-inclusive Le Blanc Spa Resort beckons you from the white sand beaches and sparkeling waters of the Caribbean. Nestled in a secluded enclave between Nichupte Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea in Cancun, Mexico, Le Blanc is an extraordinary resort where luxury embraces romance. Indulge your every whim from world-class service to endless activities.

Enjoy lavish accommodations during your stay including amenities of marble and wood decor to comfortable furnishings. There are accommodations and room types to suite all types of guests offering royal deluxe rooms to opulent royal presidential suites.

Whether you prefer a lively atmospher or a quiet locale offering a romantic setting, there are many bars to enjoy throughout your evenings. At the Blanc Stage Lounge, you’ll find live music while the lobby bar provides a sophisticated lounge overlooking one of the infinity pools.

Experience delectable dining during your stay. Each of the five restaurants offer a unique ambiance serving the finest cuisine from French and Italian menus to Asian specialties.

Unwind and interact through the many activities and sports available. Take a refreshing swim in one of two infinity pools, soak up the Caribbean sun on the pristine beach, participate in a variety of onsite activities, world-class golf, and be sure to explore the ancient archeological sites of the Mayan culture.

Seek romance during your honeymoon and surrender to this serene paradise. For more information visit http://www.leblancsparesort.com.

When Christine and Ronnie began planning their wedding, there was no question as to where they wanted to tie the knot ─ with their feet in the sand on the breathtaking island of Aruba. Christine and Ronnie immediately fell in love with the island when they traveled there in 2007 for vacation. The couple wanted a very intimate affair, making a destination wedding an ideal fit, with pristine beaches, turquoise blue water, friendly staff, and an overall positive atmosphere. All of the festivities were held at the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort and Casino. “The customer service at the Hyatt is phenomenal,” noted Christine. “A staff member had a glass of champagne and cold rags ready for our guests upon their arrival to the resort. The people are hospitable, knew us by name, and made sure we were always taken care of.”

The wedding was planned for a long weekend, which allowed a lot of time for their guests to explore the island and participate in the many activities that Aruba has to offer. Guests always had something to do, from welcoming cocktails to water sports, relaxing on the beach, swimming, working on their fitness at the fully equipped gym, or getting pampered at the spa. There was something for everyone of all ages.

The ceremony first took place at the Civil Town House, due to Aruba’s new law to legally wed. Later that evening, Christine and Ronnie had a second beachfront ceremony as they had always dreamed. The bride donned a Nicole Miller silk chiffon gown, while her bridesmaids wore Jim Hjelm green strapless dresses. The groom and his groomsmen sported light beige suits with ivory shirts, ties, and flip-flops.

After exchanging beautiful vows, the newlyweds and their 32 guests celebrated at the reception. The outdoor oasis was decorated beautifully with low centerpieces consisting of white hydrangeas and dendrobium orchids. Coffee beans were scattered at the base of the glass vase.

From cocktail hour to dinner, guests enjoyed an abundance of food. The cocktail hour enjoyed many served passed hors d’oeuvres including: coconut shrimp, vegetarian spring rolls, seared tuna, crab cakes, a raw bar, and a “welcome to the family” pasta station. For dinner, guests had a choice of filet mignon or Chilean sea bass. “The food was fresh and was cooked to the right temperature. Everything was delicious,” Christine commented.

The disc jockey for the evening was provided by the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort and Casino. He played a mix from all eras, which had their guests moving on the dance floor. All eyes were on the newlyweds as they danced in the spotlight to “Crazy Love” by Van Morrison.

Instead of a traditional wedding cake, they opted for a cupcake tower. Also served for dessert were chocolate chip cookies and Italian pastries.

From all of the events leading up to and throughout the wedding day, David and Tami from The Studio Photographers captured every moment flawlessly. They were able to get many great shots of the couple all over Aruba, including on the beach, in front of the California Lighthouse, next to a magnificent divi-divi tree, and even in the ocean. “David and Tami made us feel very comfortable in front of the camera. They were very innovative on places to bring us on the island, and it was like we were hanging out with friends,” remarked Ronnie. Once all of the festivities ended, Christine and Ronnie continued their honeymoon in paradise for one more week. Although all of the planning was done through mail and email, the couple couldn’t have been happier with how their wedding turned out. They continue to thank the staff at the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort and Casino for making their special day exactly how they imagined.

Christine and Ronnie
October 24, 2009
Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort and Casino
Aruba

Ceremony & Reception Location: Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort and Casino
Officiant: Reverend Sydney Michael
Photographer: The Studio Photographers
Videographer: George Jacobs
Entertainment: Provided by Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort and Casino
Florist: Provided by Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort and Casino
Cake Designer: Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort and Casino
Bridal Salon: Nicole Miller, Inc.
Headpiece & Veil: Fontana Bridal Salon
Shoes: My Glass Slipper
Formal Attire: Ekizian’s Tuxedos
Invitations: Rachel Kurland • Favors: Beau-coup
Hair Salon: Knipoog Hair Studio
Jeweler: Fontana Bridal Salon

“Discover the bold new shade of luxury.” Located on the lush peninsula 19 miles from San Juan is the Gran Meliá Golf Resort. This luxury resort in Puerto Rico delivers a bold statement offering sophistication, world-class service, and breathtaking views in this pristine destination. Nestled on Puerto Rico’s northeastern coast in Coco Beach, Gran Meliá brings privacy, exclusivity, and the opportunity to escape among the lush landscape.

From oversized Junior Suites to Oceanfront Garden Villas, Gran Meliá offers accommodations to suit every guest’s need. Each room features bold colors, custom-designed mahogany furnishings and rich Spanish accents with stunning views of the ocean, rainforest mountains or golf course.

Throughout your stay, enjoy a selection of exceptional fine dining experiences featuring traditions from the Far East, Italian-Mediterranean, and local fare for Puerto Rican gastronomical influences.

Guests can enjoy a variety of life-enriching activities at the Gran Meliá. Tennis, water aerobics, yoga, volleyball, and dance lessons are just a few of the daytime activities offered at the resort. At night, enjoy live music as the Avenue Bar. For more information visit http://www.Gran-Melia-Puerto-Rico.com.

Located off Thailand’s east coast is the third-largest Thai island, Koh Samui. Just a 45-minute flight from Bangkok, the island’s white sand, swaying coconut palms and calm waters help maintains its away-from-it-all charm. Four Seasons nestles on Koh Samui’s northwestern tip on peaceful Laem Yai Bay – 30 minutes from the airport and just five minutes from the capital of Nathon.

Experience island perfection in your private hillside villa offering luxurious accommodations  featuring a  living space with an infinity pool giving way to pristine panoramic views of Laem Yai Bay, Koh Phangan and the Gulf of Siam.

Experience a gourmet paradise where sophisticated culinary traditions meet fresh ingredients and superb service for world-class gastronomy in Thailand. From the island’s local fare to Italian and specialty seafood selections, dining at the Four Seasons will satisfy your palette.

Snorkeling, diving, and kayaking are just a few of the activities you can participate in during your stay. Koh Samui is the perfect location to experience the blue-green waters of the Gulf of Siam, seek adventure, or get pampered at the spa. For more information visit http://www.FourSeasons.com/KohSamui.

HONEYMOON SPOTLIGHT:
Hotel Riu Palace Paradise Island
Paradise Island, Bahamas

The all-inclusive Hotel Riu Palace Paradise Island is located on the extensive beach of Paradise Island, Bahamas. Here you can enjoy good service and the comfort that the service of Riu offers to each traveler.

Stay in one of 379 guest rooms offering junior suites and suites with upgraded amenities featuring a living room area and sea view.

This Palace reserves you the best to make your vacations as much relaxing as possible. It provides a fresh water swimming pool, Jacuzzi, pristine beach, solarium-terrace and health and beauty center- the “Renova Spa”- offering various spa treatments.

Dine at the restaurant’s buffet serving cuisine prepared on the spot. Taste a world of international flavors to satisfy your palate while savoring meals at the optional a la carte restaurants- the grill steakhouse, Krystal Fusion, Sir Alexander gourment Restaurant, and Tengoku serving Japanese favorites.

From fishing, swimming with dolphins, aquatic parks and sunbathing, there are many activities to participate in at the Hotel Riu Palace Paradise Island. At Atlantis, the biggest entertainment center of the Caribbean, enjoy a casino, an aquatic park and an aquarium. For more information visit http://www.Riu.com.

Shania Twain wed Frederic Thiebaud on New Years Day, 2011. The two exchanged vows during a beautiful sunset on the beach in Puerto Rico in front of their closest family and friends. Twain looked beautiful in her fitted, strapless wedding gown (very fitting for a destination wedding) and cathedral-length veil.

image via USAToday.com