Showing posts with label Destination Weddings. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Destination Weddings. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Top Ten Castles for a Fairy Wedding



As wedding locations go, there’s no place more romantic to tie the knot than an enchanting historic castle. Whether you’re planning a renaissance wedding or you’re simply seeking a stunning and secluded place to say “I do,” a castle is the ultimate location for your special day.

Friday, January 4, 2013

"Budget Bride"



A ruthless discussion of the term ‘Budget Bride’ and wedding decision making 

by:Andy Ebon
The Wedding Marketing

I only have $500. Will you take it?
 
A couple of days ago, I posted an item about the differences between money (price), value, budget and result. It generated lots of traffic, a comment or two, and plenty of direct email.

It also caused me to consider the phrase, ‘budget bride.’ Along with DIY Bride, these are two of the most annoying and poorly used descriptors in the wedding industry. To a great degree, I lay that at the feet of my friends in mass media for the wedding industry. Mass media tends to be a popularization tool as much as an information source. If you repeat a phrase, such as ‘budget bride,’ often enough, it becomes part of the wedding lexicon, for better for worse.

The problem with these phrases is they paint the bride’s resources with the grayest of brush strokes. So, at the risk of being more precise, I’ll break it down from my experience.
  • DIY Bride: (Budget: under $5000) Someone who probably doesn’t have the resources to get married just yet and is likely to turn most of her wedding into an Arts and Crafts project.
  • Low Budget Bride (Budget: $5000 – $14,999) Has the resources, but will have to make some tough decisions on the reception. The big conundrum is whether to economize across the board or cut in specific areas, and not others.
  • Statistically Average Bride: (Budget: $15,000 – $34,999) Has the resources to do a nice job on the reception. Her biggest decision should be ‘How many guests can we invite to have a nice reception?’
  • High Budget Bride (Budget: $35,000 – $60,000): Has more than enough money to do great things. Her biggest challenge is not to make bad choices among wedding vendors, irrespective of money.
  • Luxury Bride (Budget: more than $60,000): Daddio has wads of cash and she wants to be awash in greenbacks. Not all brides in this financial category are Bridezillas, but the risk and tendency is greater than in any of the lower tiers. Bridezillas almost always make bad decisions. It’s in their DNA.
A budget is not:
  • … is not throwing a dart at a target.
  • … budget is not the total amount in the parent’s bank account or your bank account.
  • … budget is not what one or more girlfriends spent on their wedding.
  • … is not necessarily what you see on Platinum Weddings or Get Married TV (those are inspirations)
A budget is:
  • A study of the range of what wedding products and services cost in your area, balanced against your tastes, inspirations and fantasies.
  • Factored by the number of guests you choose to invite.
A line budget item is not:
  • “I only have $750 left for videography. Will you take that?”
  • “Oh, my third cousin, Oscar, is going to take the photos.”
A budget is:
  • $1 Million
  • $50,000
  • $25,000
  • $7,500
  • $3,000
Budget does not necessarily mean low budget. A budget can be…
  • A specific dollar amount or less
  • A specific dollar amount or more
  • A range from $X to $Y (this is the preferred budget)
  • Money is no object (must be the truth)
The Wedding Report publishes ongoing data about spending in the wedding industry. It consistently reports that brides spend close to 50% more than they had budgeted for the wedding, with an average wedding expense running  just under $30,000. This shows a major discrepancy between the original money allotted, from reality of their desires.

I would assert the reason for this is that their original money allotment was not a budget at all. It was dart throwing at a bank book.

Here’s the challenge from every wedding professional, wedding media outlet, and industry trade association:
  • Clearly delineate what it means to be a professional in your category of the wedding industry, from the standpoint of ‘benefits to the bride.’
  • Explain the relationship (if any) of your business category to others. Such as the interactions between entertainer, photographer, videographer and caterer/venue. Or flowers and cake.
  • Explain the Truth or Consequences and effect of making a sub-standard choice.
The naked truth about satisfaction vs. money spent: When a wedding day is over, either the bride and groom are happy with a particular product or service or they are not. A vendor is not wearing a price tag around their neck. There is not a dollar cost at your place card, showing the price of each dinner. There is not a little flag in your slice of cake, showing its cost plus a cake cutting fee.

In retrospect, most wedding couples can point out decisions they made, that were off-the-mark. There are hundreds of decisions, big and small, involved in a wedding. Amazingly enough, it only takes one or two really bad decisions to create an unhappy outcome. And, amazingly enough, a really bad decision is often not related to money.

It would be outstanding if all wedding industry professionals would embrace educating the bride to realistic and exciting expectations, rather than than just fanning the flames of fairy tale dreams. It is true that if the wedding budget is spent disproportionately, bad things usually happen.

A bride with $12,000 to spend, should be able to experience as much happiness on her wedding day as one with $50,000. But that supposes she has enough information, common sense, and critical thinking to make consistently good decisions, and then does so.

Come to think of it, that’s a pretty good operational mission statement for the wedding industry.
Don’t you agree?
Andy Ebon
The Wedding Marketing

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Does 2012 Signal the End of Time? Belizeans Say No

"The Wedding Affair" wishes all the wonderful couples good luck on your face book contest -


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Does 2012 Signal the End of Time? Belizeans Say No

Maya Descendants Believe End of Calendar Brings New Beginnings

December 21, 2011 (San Pedro, Belize) — Only 365 days remain until the end of the 5126-year-old Mayan calendar next year, and the beliefs of many will be tested as time ticks down in 2012. On December 21, 2012, the world as we know it will end – or so it’s thought by those who believe next year’s end to the 5126-year-old Mayan calendar signals the end of time. However, Maya descendants in Belize, the epicenter of the ancient Mayan world, reject popular doomsday scenarios, and instead see the calendar’s end as a joyous time of spiritual rebirth and new beginnings. 

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Enter to win a FREE 10-DAY Weddingmoon in Unbelizable Belize!!!

Belize's unspoiled beauty, history and nature create the backdrop as your participate in the "Maya Marriage of Many". As the 5,126 year old Mayan Calendar draws to an end in December 2012, it is a time of renewal, rebirth, and new beginnings.

Monday, September 12, 2011

How To Pack A Wedding Gown For Flight


Lately young couples are less interested in large, traditional weddings and opt for destination weddings. These are less formal and more relaxed and will allow them to feel comfortable and enjoy themselves without worrying about the wedding etiquette and old fashioned traditions. Plus, destination weddings are more fun and require less preparation. Hence, if you decided to exchange vows on your favorite part of the world then you should pack you things and hit the road. However, remember to pack your wedding dress carefully and without ruining it. A proper packing will protect the shape, color and details of the dress.


Still, if you want to make sure your wedding dress will be easy to transport pay attention when purchasing it. It is recommended to choose a light weight and soft fabric because it would be easy to handle and transport. Also, make sure the fabric won’t wrinkle easily. Chiffon, organza and georgette are the most common and well received fabrics for a destination wedding gown.






If you intend to flight to your dream destination there are a few things you should know before packing you dress. First of all, remember not to let your wedding dresses in checked luggage. You risk having it damaged or even lost. Therefore it is important to reduce its length and take it with you on the plane. It is recommended to ask the airlines what are their restrictions regarding wedding gowns and what are your alternatives. Most US airline stated that wedding dresses should be transported in garment bags of 54’’’long




Begin by preparing the wedding gown. Lay it down on a flat and clean surface and wrap it in white tissue paper. This will allow the dress to keep its shape. You can find special and acid free tissue paper that will allow the fabric to breathe and prevent humidity. Fold the dress so that one side will overlap the other. Pay a significant attention to the train and fold it towards the middle of the wedding dress. Put the gown into a breathable garment bag. This is easy to fold and carry and it will also keep the dress in good shape.

If you are traveling first class you might be able to hang your garment bag into the closet. Each plane has a special part for wedding gowns. In this case it is highly important to write your contact details such as complete name and phone number on the bag.


How To Pack A Wedding Gown For Flight (Source: beachbridetobe.com)
(Source: hpoole.files.wordpress.com),

Thursday, August 25, 2011

- Honeymoon Giveaway - Top Destination Weddings: Italy


Destination Weddings - Comprehensive Honeymoons - Vacation Planning

1-866-726-9090


Italy has so much to offer – the food, the wine, the historic cities and rustic country, and the friendly people. Be prepared for lots of hugs from strangers when you announce you’re getting married while in Italy. One way to host a destination wedding here is to rent out a large private home for you and your guests – there are many to choose from throughout the country. Or, book a Bed&Breakfast to enjoy local home-cooking and local expertise on what to see and where to eat. You really can’t go wrong.

A happy medium may be Aranjaya, a luxury villa on a family-run three-hundred acre citrus estate in Sicily. Your guests can sip chianti by the large infinity pool under swaying palm and blood-orange trees, play tennis on the grounds, or drive five miles to the nearest village. It’s perfect for a destination wedding party to take over the entire place. Sicily is also home to La Plage resort, a waterfront luxury hotel that opened only a few years ago, with sixty guestrooms and five private villa suites, ideal for destination wedding groups.

For brides who dream of having a wedding in Tuscany, the spa town of Monsummano is gorgeous. If you can’t master the basics of Italian in time for your trip, book your wedding party at the Villa Lucia Bed and Breakfast – the owner is a former restaurant owner from California. Weddings at the Villa Lucia take place in an olive grove with a view of the Tuscan countryside. Wherever you want to travel, Elite agents will pair you with professionals who will be able to help you – in English – to put on your perfect wedding.

Let Elite Travel help you plan your perfect destination wedding. It will be the most relaxing wedding you’ve ever been to!

Top Destination Weddings Guide

View the other destination wedding locations on our list.


Mexico

Jamaica

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Grand Bahama

Dominican Republic

St. Lucia

Yucatan Peninsula & Cancun, Mexico

Tahiti

South Africa

Fowl Cay


Sponsored by Elite Travel
www.honeymoongiveaway.com
www.elitetravelgroup.net


We are EXPERTS IN customized HONEYMOONS AND "FREE" DESTINATION WEDDING packages. We bring together an exciting range of products and special offers to suit your honeymoon needs with your budget in mind.

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

HONEYMOON GIVEAWAY- Top Destination Weddings: Mexico



Destination Weddings, Comprehensive Honeymoons, Vacation Planning

1-866-726-9090







Mexico is our top destination for weddings, honeymoons, and vacations because Mexican properties offer great value for your dollar. To the East, you have Cancun and the Yucatan Peninsula sporting everything from world class resorts, to wild nightclubs, to ancient Mayan ruins. There really is something for every type of traveler, which makes Mexico one of my first recommendations for destination wedding parties. The other reason we love Mexico is that you'll spend less time traveling - it's close - and more time enjoying your destination.

While a Mexican honeymoon is hotter than the queso on your nachos, getting married in Mexico presents some challenges. The easiest way to have a beautiful destination wedding south of the border is to wed legally in the U.S. and have a symbolic or religious ceremony at the location. Otherwise you have to worry about translating documents, blood tests, chest x-rays - and every Mexican state has slightly different requirements. You don't need to add that to your already lengthy wedding to-do list.

Mexico has some of the most beautiful, and least expensive, all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, and many offer great deals that your travel agent will be able to access for you. Azul Sensatori on the Riviera Maya is a stunning property with an authentic feel and wonderful service - you'll be greeted with champagne on arrival. We regularly receive enthusiastic feedback from brides and honeymooners we send to the Dreams Resorts in Cancun, Tulum, and Puerto Aventuras. Dreams Resorts schedule only two weddings per day and make extra effort to personalize each one. Whether you're looking for spectacular beaches, a range of activities to please family, friends, or yourself, want to experience Mexico's history and culture, or just want to sip fruity cocktails by the sea to recover from your wedding - Mexico has it all.

Top Destination Weddings Guide

View the other top destination wedding locations on our list.


Jamaica

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Grand Bahama

Dominican Republic

St. Lucia

Yucatan Peninsula & Cancun, Mexico

Tahiti

Italy

South Africa

Fowl Cay


Sponsored by Elite Travel
www.honeymoongiveaway.com
www.elitetravelgroup.net

We are EXPERTS IN customized HONEYMOONS AND "FREE" DESTINATION WEDDING packages. We bring together an exciting range of products and special offers to suit your honeymoon needs with your budget in mind.

Friday, July 8, 2011

Considering a Destination Wedding? Remember the Seasons

source: www.goarticles.com

Are you in the process of planning a destination wedding? Don't forget your seasons. And, no, I'm not referring to Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall. I'm referring to Fire, Hurricane and Tornado.

The recent fires in the western United States are a reminder that Nature can sometimes take an ugly turn. But, often times, these "ugly turns" are really part of predictable "seasons" that, if we are aware of them, can help us make informed decisions.

Let's take a look at some of these "seasons" and how they might affect your wedding plans:

Fire Season:

The western United States (California, Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado and Utah) has what is called a "fire season" that usually runs from late April until the end of October. Fed by drought (as in the case of the Arizona), low humidity, lightening strikes and winds, they can burn thousands of acres and threaten communities and resorts. What are some popular wedding destinations which might be affected by fire season? June, 2006 saw the evacuation of parts of the resort town of Sedona, Arizona, including the Oak Creek Canyon area, a location very popular for destination weddings. This fire also stranded visitors to the Grand Canyon, who were cut off from other northern Arizona towns by road closures.

The resort areas of Big Bear and Idyllwild in California are also destinations for those wanting to get married in the mountains of California. In recent years both areas have been hard hit during fire season. Fire season also affects the Rocky Mountains in Colorado and the mountains surrounding Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Hurricane/Cyclone Season:

The Atlantic hurricane season officially lasts from June 1 to November 30 and affects the Southeastern United States of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and parts of Texas (in addition to bringing heavy rains and flooding to neighboring states). The Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean are also affected. The cyclone season in Australia extends from November to April. What popular wedding destinations might be disrupted by hurricanes? Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is a popular wedding destination, as are the beaches of Florida, Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean. If you're planning a quick elopement to these areas, it's good to get up-to-date hurricane news from the National Weather Service National Hurricane Center Tropical Prediction Center, http://www.nhc.noaa.gov. Globally, September is the most active month and May is the least active month for hurricane/cyclone activity, according to the Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory (AOML) (http://www.aoml.noaa.gov.)

Tornado Season:

Tornado season is generally March through August, with 74% of all tornadoes occurring between March 1 and July 31. Although tornados can happen in many locations, they occur most often in the central part of the United States known as "Tornado Alley." Tornado Alley affects all of Oklahoma, Nebraska and Kansas and parts of Texas, Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Colorado, South Dakota and Wyoming.

Keep the seasons in mind when planning your destination wedding. Of course, just because there is a season for these natural occurrences, it doesn't mean your particular destination will be affected. Should you decide to have your wedding in one of these areas, however, it's always a good idea to be informed of weather updates, and safety precautions you should take in the event of a fire, flood, hurricane or tornado. Being prepared and informed can help prevent the best day of your life from turning into a disaster.


About the Author
Shari Hearn is a writer and creator of a destination weddings website, where you can learn all about wedding locations and bachelorette party ideas.

Sunday, June 5, 2011

Destination Wedding and Honeymoons




Planning the perfect destination wedding or honeymoon can be overwhelming, so when it comes to arranging your trip, let AAA Travel help. Our specialists will assist you in planning the destination wedding or honeymoon of your dreams, whether that is relaxing on a sun–soaked beach in Hawaii, trekking through South American rainforests, or hitting the slopes in the Swiss Alps.



Services include:
•Personalized travel planning to destinations throughout the world
•Airline, hotel and car recommendations and reservations
•Tour and cruise recommendations and reservations




The AAA difference:
•$100,000 Travel Accident Insurance included at no charge with the purchase of airline tickets
•AAA Travel Store offering luggage, travel guides, accessories, and more
•Assistance with visa entry applications and passport photos
•Free TripTiks®, TourBooks®, and maps for AAA members



Exclusive for newly-engaged and newly–wed couples: the AAA Perfect Couple Membership. When you book a destination wedding or honeymoon package or cruise, receive a complimentary one-year AAA Basic membership for you and your new spouse.

If you are already a AAA member, your next year’s membership renewal will be complimentary, plus a AAA Associate membership added for free for your spouse. (Mention promo code 10PC.)

Contact one of AAA Travel’s destination wedding and honeymoon specialists to start turning your dream getaway into reality:

Linda Snyder, CTC
(952) 927-2595
lsnyder@aaaminneapolis.com
5400 Auto Club Way
St. Louis Park, MN 55416

Sherri Schreckenghaust, CTC
(952) 927-2747
sschreck@aaaminneapolis.com
13007 Ridgedale Drive
Minnetonka, MN 55305





Learn how Wedding Insurance can help you protect your investment today.

Visit our Registry page to give or get a gift of honeymoon travel.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Weddings become the in event of the year



(Forimmediaterelease.net) With the Royal Wedding fresh on everyone's mind, and June, the most popular month for weddings, being ushered in on the warmth of summer, weddings are in the forefront of couples' and romantics' hearts everywhere this year.

DestinationWeddings.travel was established many years ago as a one of a kind, boutique travel concierge service. It customizes destination weddings, honeymoons, and celebrations designed for romance, love, and adventure. Whether it is an adults-only experience, a kid-free paradise, or a hip and chic experience for families and friends, boundless adventures are offered for adults and kids alike.

Pamela Ott, owner of DestinationWeddings.travel, refers to herself as the “wedding fairy.” With a contagious passion for travel, romance, discovery, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, she has fulfilled many dreams for brides, grooms, families, and the young-at-heart. Ott also owns and operates www.WildSideDestinations.travel , a website specializing in luxury travel, sensuous safaris, adventure tours, and cruises.

“Having been in the travel industry for so many years, when the opportunity arose to qualify and own a .travel, we jumped in bridal gown and bare feet first! Due to the nature of being authenticated, we knew this would be a way for true travel professionals to be acknowledged and recognized,” said Ott, “.travel, not to be confused with other domains such as .com .org .net - which anyone can purchase - represents who we are and gives a sense of pride and ownership to our travel business that many others have not earned. This level of industry recognition separates us from the next domain name and service. We place a sincere value on .travel crowning us as a dream provider, a unique brand in itself.”

DestinationWeddings.travel’s marketing materials include postcards, fliers, calendars, business cards, magnets, and car decals that are all unique and reflect their boutique, preferred services. The DestinationWeddings.travel site is frequently updated to recommend experiences, which continue to attract the traveler looking for heightened travel experiences.

DestinationWeddings.travel has always remained boutique in services in order to continue the service level they want to give. They look for quality, not quantity. With the “Wedding Fairy’s" passion for travel, each traveler is in special hands as she makes her client’s dreams come true.

To learn more about the multi-generational luxury accommodations, tropical interludes, ravishing romance, eclectic honeymoons, beach bonding, sensuous safaris, and other enchanting adventures offered by Destination Weddings, visit www.DestinationWeddings.travel .

ETN is introducing its readers to .travel companies and destinations through a series of articles. If you are a .travel company and would like to share your story about how the .travel domain has helped your business, please send us an email to: team@eturbonews.com .

If you are interested in getting your own .travel domain, go to: www.travel.travel .

MEDIA CONTACT: Destinationweddings.travel, Phone: (888) 696-4202, Email: pj@wildsidedestinations.com

Saturday, May 28, 2011

GHM targets Luxury Travel Market in India


With the extension of its global marketing network in India, Asia-based luxury hotel and resort management company GHM is targeting the rapidly growing luxury travel segment from India. GHM’s primary focus in India is high-end individual and honeymoon travellers. Apart from this it is also targeting the MICE segment, with a special focus on corporate think tank meetings.


GHM also looks at tapping the opportunities presented by Destination Weddings that are catching the fancy of many Indians who now want their marriage to be held at exotic locations.


GHM’s India representatives, Sartha Marketing headed by headed by hospitality industry veteran Sheema Vohra is working extensively in conjunction with the Indian travel trade and wedding planners to promote GHM’s portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts worldwide.

To further enhance the understanding of the unique products offered by GHM, Sartha Marketing will also be conducting workshops for the management and counter staff from these organizations.


GHM is currently also offering some niche and interesting packages to attract and create excitement among the well heeled travellers. Packages like The Datai Golf and Spa Journey cater to the specific interests of travellers while offering them a perfect luxury escape.


GHM has an unrivalled reputation for conceptualising, developing and operating exclusive and stylish hotels and resorts worldwide. Its current portfolio of award winning and unique hotels and resorts is set to expand over the coming years with a number of new openings in the pipeline including two properties in China: The Chedi Club Suzhou and The Chedi Taiping Lake. Also under development are resorts in Jordan, Switzerland, Morocco and Malaysia.

Friday, May 20, 2011

Dominican Republic Destination Weddings

Have you ever dreamt of a magnificent beach wedding in a tropical island wedding destination? Then we have wonderful news because our luxury vacation villa offers unique and beautiful Dominican Republic destination weddings for every sized budget! You may prefer a private beach wedding with just your immediate family or desire a lavish top destination wedding with over a hundred friends and relatives; and we can accommodate either one!



Come and experience paradise in a top destination wedding location at Villa Castellamonte in the Dominican Republic.Your love is different and at Villa Castellamonte we believe your destination wedding should be different from all the others. You seek a one-of-a-kind wedding in the Caribbean that reflects your individual love and commitment to each other and we can help you achieve it. Our al a carte wedding services, coordinated by our dedicated Dominican Republic wedding planner, can include everything you need to make your magical special day truly unique!

Dominican Republic Wedding Planner

Our luxury vacation villa rental offers you the services of our dedicated Dominican Republic wedding planner. She will help with every step of your wedding plans from the first major decision, selecting your destination wedding location, to the smallest of details. Our Dominican destination wedding planner has years of experience providing guidance, advice and coordination to a wide range of weddings.

Planning a destination wedding in the Dominican Republic requires in depth knowledge and expertise. Our Dominican Republic wedding planner has been helping make happy couples for nearly a decade. Her experience and attention to detail are second to none; she is the best wedding planner in the Dominican Republic in our experience and available only at our destination wedding villa.


Caribbean Wedding Packages



Imagine a spectacular Caribbean wedding destination with creatively inspired Caribbean wedding packages designed with every budget in mind yet without losing the elegance, beauty and luxury of a private vacation villa wedding experience. Our destination wedding services, including our dedicated destination wedding planner, are second to none. We have been highlighted in Destination I Do magazine, are listed on Island Brides and have dozens and dozens of unbiased 5-Star reviews on Flipkey.com; come and see why.

Even with our fantastic destination wedding planner we do realize you may want to have wedding packages to help offer suggestions and recommendations for your wedding planning in the Dominican Republic. Our Caribbean wedding packages are specifically designed to help you in this way. These Dominican Republic wedding packages offer ideas and a basic framework for you and the wedding planner to define a top destination wedding.

We provide two wedding packages; a) an all-inclusive Dominican Republic wedding package and an al a carte destination wedding package. The all-inclusive wedding package is designed for a smaller wedding with a limited number of guests all staying in our luxury villa. The al a carte (very flexible) Dominican Republic wedding package provides for every aspect of a wedding, large to small, even the most extravagant of weddings are possible in our villa destination.
Top Destination Weddings

The Dominican Republic has rapidly become the top destination wedding location throughout the Caribbean. It has achieved this distinction as one of the best destination wedding spots because you are able to realize a magnificent wedding at a fraction of the traditional costs. Weddings in the Dominican Republic are less expensive yet you receive the same high quality materials, services and attention to detail as elsewhere.


Top destination weddings are possible in the Dominican Republic with our dedicated wedding planner in our unique destination wedding location, Villa Castellamonte. View our past wedding photos, read our villa reviews and then Contact us to learn more about how we can help you realize the true top destination wedding of your dreams!

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Fredericksburg inns are wooing weddings

The new Historic Inns of Fredericksburg will hold an open house May 1 to showcase their venues to brides planning destination weddings



THE newly formed Historic Inns of Fredericksburg have banded together to promote downtown as a location for destination weddings.

Members will hold their first Downtown Bridal Open House on May 1 to showcase their venues, and are encouraging downtown merchants to participate as well.

"It's an opportunity to come into town that day and wander around and go in all these lovely inns and other venues," said Barbara Lucas, who handles marketing for The Olde Silk Mill Inn.






Brides can register at the inn, a 27-room bed-and-breakfast at 1707 Princess Anne St., from 1 to 5 p.m. that day for prizes and sample wedding, sweet and savory cheesecakes provided by The Cheesecake Garden. Owner Susan Palma currently takes orders online but plans to open a storefront downtown.

From there, brides can either walk or drive about a dozen blocks to see the other bed-and-breakfasts in the organization. They are the Kenmore Inn, 1200 Princess Anne St.; The Richard Johnston Inn, 717 Caroline St., and its sister inn, The Caroline House, 528 Caroline St.; and The Schooler House, 1303 Caroline St.

Several other businesses already plan to participate in the open house as well. Trolley Tours of Fredericksburg, for example, will have a banner about the event; and I Thee Wed, which is at 2201 Lafayette Blvd., will have a display in the Wilson Building, 915 Caroline St.

The Inn at the Olde Silk Mill hosted its own bridal open house last year. It attracted about 100 people. Lucas said she thinks that the May 1 event, which Historic Inns of Fredericksburg hopes to hold annually, will attract more than twice that and will grow even larger in the years ahead.

"Next time, it could be something that everybody looks forward to and plans to attend," she said.

Owners of the five participating bed-and-breakfasts formed Historic Inns of Fredericksburg in January to pool their marketing dollars and boost their profile. They're working on a website, which will have a link on visitfred.com, the area tourism site, and a brochure promoting all five properties that's aimed at tour groups and wedding parties.

"Between all the inns, we have over 50 rooms," Lucas said. "We can easily accommodate an upscale motorcoach group."

The Inn at the Olde Silk Mill will soon add an additional venue. Owner Ed Whelan III is renovating the former silk-mill building behind the inn as a 300-seat event space for weddings, conferences, trade shows and other activities.

"We already have weddings booked for May and June in that building," said inn manager Anna Sanborn.

Cathy Jett: 540/374-5407
Email: cjett@freelancestar.com

One&Only Cape Town Introduces New All-Inclusive Wedding Packages

One&Only Cape Town Introduces New All-Inclusive Wedding Packages



As South Africa’s most popular destination, Cape Town is known for its restaurants, beaches, architecture, art, and wine. A close neighbour to the world acclaimed Stellenbosch wine region, it also serves as the gateway to the Big Five (lions, elephants, cape buffalos, leopards and rhinos) and Africa’s largest animal reserves. A haven for the international wedding and honeymoon set, One&Only Cape Town recently introduced a new Weddings Consultant and All-Inclusive Wedding Packages to encourage couples to embark on this trip of a lifetime.





“We provide honeymoons and weddings that are memorable as they include the grandeur of Table Mountain, the sea and the scenically beautiful city of Cape Town combined with the finest Wilderness areas and Game reserves on the continent,” says Adele Bennett, Weddings Consultant, One&Only Cape Town.

Newly appointed to help couples plan their celebrations, Adele Bennett is a planner extraordinaire with over 2,000 weddings under her belt. Whether you envision a destination wedding that is non-traditional and casual or one that is elegant and formal, Adele is dedicated to making your event magical and unforgettable from the initial planning to the reception. To keep your memories of this moment alive, couples who book their wedding at One&Only Cape Town will receive a complimentary first anniversary dinner at Reuben’s when they return.

Wedding

Ranging from an elaborate ballroom celebration to an intimate gathering of friends, One&Only Cape Town provides a stunning collection of venues for the special day including the Penthouse, boasting breathtaking views of Table Mountain. More than three times the size of the resort’s ballroom, the Penthouse boasts a pool deck with roof-top decking and entertainment. The space comfortably accommodates 50 – 80 persons and up to 150 for a cocktail reception. The Marina Room, with spectacular views of the V&A Waterfront and the marina is ideal for parties of 30-40 and is available for afternoon or evening receptions. For Summer, Isola, an outdoor pool-side space on the Island, features lush landscaping and water views for 20-50 persons.

The beautifully appointed Ballroom, measuring 2,314 square feet with 648 square feet of outdoor space, is available for private events and can accommodate 50 to 120 persons for a Wedding Reception with dance floor. This venue is available for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner-Dance.

To assist couples with planning their event, One&Only Cape Town recently unveiled a number of all-inclusive wedding packages. Starting at R10,500 for a Marina Room, this package includes :

Meeting with One&Only Wedding Consultant
One night in a Luxury Marina and Table Mountain Facing Room
Romantic rose petal turndown and a personalized bottle of Graham Beck Brut Sparkling Wine
A personalized One&Only photo frame and Wedding memento
Complimentary menu and wine tasting at Reuben’s
Dance floor, tables, chairs, all cutlery, crockery and glassware
Crisp white floor length table linen
Pre-reception area for guests to enjoy drinks and canapés
Complimentary First Anniversary dinner at Reuben’s

Honeymoon

A series of bridges link Marina Rise with two separate, exclusive islands boasting 40 additional rooms and suites, a private infinity pool and expansive spa serving as an ideal hideaway for honeymooners. In winter, couples can retreat back to their one and two-bedroom Grand Suites to find a wood burning fireplace for romantic nights cuddled by the fire complete with complimentary wine and canapés. In summer, these suites provide exclusive access to the resort’s spa island nestled on its own lushly landscaped private island at the heart of this bustling city.

The resort’s wide array of amenities accommodates travellers of all tastes. Those seeking a relaxing, tranquil stay can enjoy a custom wine tasting hosted by the resort Sommelier at Reuben’s boasting the largest collection of South African vintages in the world or relax with any number of tailored, holistic treatments at the One&Only Spa - the most expansive in all of Cape Town. Signature treatments include therapeutic plants from the region and local sea salts to condition and revitalize the body. Soothing Rooibos tea is served in the comfort of the relaxation room where couples will complete their treatment journey.

One&Only Cape Town can also arrange day-long excursions to visit some of the region’s top wineries. The One&Only Winelands Tour takes couples to some of the region’s most well-known wineries and for tours and tastings, some of which include unique pairings such as red wine with locally produced chocolate.

Intrepid thrill seekers honeymooning at One&Only Cape Town enjoy a wide variety of adventure activities available to them. Nearby Table Mountain offers a challenging day of climbing, while others may enjoy the rush that comes with hang-gliding, paragliding and skydiving. Those seeking something below the surface are encouraged to book a scuba diving excursion on the Cape Peninsula. Amateurs can participate in diving courses arranged from a variety of surf and dive shops around the city. For even more adrenalin, a one day shark cage diving adventure in the town of Hermanus is available.






As a preferred partner with the luxury safari lodges of Singita and Eagle Creek, One&Only Cape Town also provides a city respite between an upscale safari experience. All packages and excursions can be coordinated by the on-site concierge upon arrival.

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Celebrate your wedding day at Hyatt


http://www.hyattweddings.com/



Celebrate your wedding day at Hyatt and enjoy free nights on your honeymoon.

Dreams do come true when you celebrate your wedding at Hyatt Hotels & Resorts. We promise that no detail will be overlooked—not even the honeymoon. We make every wedding more than memorable and every guest—particularly the bridal party—more than welcome.

Now a dream wedding at Hyatt Hotels & Resorts comes with the opportunity for a honeymoon to match:

* Book your wedding and receive up to five complimentary nights* at a participating Hyatt Resort in the United States, Mexico or Aruba.
* Offer valid for weddings and honeymoons held and completed by December 31, 2011.

Our experienced catering and event managers will assist you in all aspects of planning your remarkable day, from picking the menu and on-site activities for your guests to floral selection and photography.

When the cost of your wedding totals the following minimum amounts, you’ll receive complimentary nights at a participating Hyatt Resort of your choice:

* $10,000 total spent for wedding – complimentary 2-night stay
* $20,000 total spent for wedding – complimentary 3-night stay
* $30,000 total spent for wedding – complimentary 4-night stay
* $40,000 total spent for wedding – complimentary 5-night stay

Additional nights and other options can be added to this offer through a Hyatt Wedding Specialist.

For more information, please submit your contact information and preferred wedding hotels/honeymoon destinations, and a Hyatt Wedding Specialist will contact you. Please reference code WEDNIGHTS.

*Offer subject to complete terms and conditions; please review for more information.

Elite Island Resorts Antigua

$1000 Credit Per Couple + Free Wedding

* Valid From: 02/04/2011
* Valid Until: 12/20/2011
* Reservations: 1-800-771-4711
* Website: VISIT WEBSITE






$1000 Credit Per Couple + Free Wedding
For new bookings only. Valid for all-inclusive stays of 7 nights or longer at published rate. Not combinable with any other offer.* Subject to availability, some restrictions apply. Valid thru December 20, 2011.

*Bonus: Free Wedding

Free Wedding Package (valued at $1199) on all-inclusive stays of 7 Nights or Longer when confirmed in upper categories as specified below.

* St. James's Club - Beachfront Accommodation
* The Verandah Resort & Spa - Waterfront Suite
* Galley Bay Resort & Spa - Premium Beachfront Suite
* Palm Island Resort - Beachfront Accommodation

What could be better than starting your new life together as a married couple in an elegant, romantic, tropical setting? Your hardest decision will be which of our nine idyllic beachfront resorts to choose.

No matter if you prefer the grand sophistication of Antigua or the exclusivity of our private island resort, Palm Island, you can be assured that every detail of your special day will be handled with absolute care by our professional wedding coordinators

We look forward to making all your island-wedding dreams come true.