Caribbean Weddings

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Hot Pink, Light Pink, Blush, Emerald, Gold and a little bit of Disco. [/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]Modern and Clean Aesthetic with a lush feel with lots of exotic tropical florals. [/field]
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[section title=”The Fashion”]
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Reem Acra convertible gown.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]A mix of colors and brands to create the mix and match aesthetic with deep royal and vibrant colors. [/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Black Tie [/field]
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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Food & Drink”]Custom Created Menu by the Top Chef at the St. Regis Bahia Beach[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The lush florals where created by the top designer on the Island, Emilio Olabarrieta, who is known for his one of a kind designs with dramatic centerpieces and the use of exotic florals you wouldn’t typically find in weddings. [/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Naked Vanilla Cake with Gold Leaf and Fresh tropical florals [/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Between the cocktail hour and reception the couple arranged a traditional Puertorican batucada to serenade the guests with their elaborate dance costumes and instruments. They walked the guests from the ceremony space to their reception venue.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]For the reception portion of the wedding the guests where treated to an outdoor reception under the stars lit by huge rattan lamps and lots of candles to set the mood. After dinner, the dancing took place at an indoor foyer set up with cocktail and lounge furniture to create a more fun and modern after party Island club. [/field]
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Photography: Vanessa Velez | Cinematography: Simone Luca | Event Design: Emilio Olabarrieta | Event Planning: Krizia Diaz | Wedding Dress: Reem Acra | Cake: Gabriel Diaz Cake Designer | Reception Venue: St Regis Bahia Beach | Entertainment: Sak Entertainment | DJ: Big J Music | Beauty: Christopher Feliciano | Photography - Assistance: Enuel Viera | Rentals: Music Factory

Growing up vacationing on Windermere Island in the Bahamas, the bride knew from a young age what her dream nuptials would look like – sandy toes, lots of sunshine, and surrounded by crystal clear Caribbean waters. The beautiful Squires Estate was the perfect location to make her island-style soirée a reality! With the help of Boy Meets Girl Weddings, the couple incorporated plenty of lush island greenery into their wedding decor, mixed in with subtle touches of cream and white blooms. Guests danced the night away to island jams from a local Bahamian band and toasted to the adorable couple with delicious tropical cocktails! Immerse yourself in the paradise that is the full gallery, all captured by Alex Thornton!

What did you envision your wedding being prior to planning?

From the Bride… I always dreamt of an island-style wedding since I was a little girl. Growing up with our family home on Windermere Island, I knew that a destination wedding in the Bahamas would be our location – I just hoped that everyone we invited would love the remote island life as much as we do! Due to COVID-19, we had to downsize our already small wedding to a much more intimate event. We went from 100 guests to right under 30 and it was absolutely perfect. I couldn’t imagine our special day being anything other than what it was.

What was your color palette and your style vision?

Why not use the resources already on hand in such a beautiful tropical place?! I was very detailed with wanting to incorporate as much island greenery into our rehearsal, ceremony and reception as possible. The lush greenery on the island is so beautiful. Island greenery mixed with lots of cream + white and blush flowers was my vision. I wanted all ghost chairs for the seating and flowers overflowing on the tables with lots of candles. We already had the most beautiful backdrop for our ceremony … the deck overlooking the Governor’s Harbour and the sun setting turned the sky the most beautiful colors of pink, orange and purple. Mother nature was definitely on our side during our wedding! I wanted everything to feel laid back and “island style” but still put together and carefully curated down to every detail. Since this was the first trip for most people in over a year (due to covid!), I wanted it to be a tropical oasis. Amazing island jams from our local Bahamian band, island cocktails (hello Goombay Smashes & rum punches all night!) local island fish or the choice of chicken for dinner and the most amazing atmosphere filled with friends and family. It was a night full of laughter, happy tears, drinking and dancing under the stars. A mix of fun, romantic, intimate and classic filled with all the natural beauty of the Bahamas.

What unique elements or DIY details did you include?

My planner wrapped our ceremony structure and tent entrance with flowers from the island – a mix of natural greenery and white roses cascading with a fun beaded boho chandelier. With the harbour right behind us, the cascading roses would blow in the breeze as we said our vows – it was truly magical. The inside of the tent had cascading roses and our bar + tables were covered in white hydrangeas, blush roses and natural island greenery. I had the place cards be little laser cut pieces of wood, painted gold for everyone. One of my favorite unique moments incorporated into our wedding were the handmade flower crowns I had made for myself and my bridesmaids. It was the perfect tropical addition and they looked so cute!

What was your favorite moment? Your favorite crafted detail?

How can I pick a favorite moment?! There were so many. I have three specifically that stand out. The first if I have to pick would be the decision we made to have a sweetheart table. We had cocktail hour over at one of the other properties on the estate after the ceremony while my wedding planner flipped the ceremony deck for our reception. Since we had such a small group, this was fairly easy. We put our sweetheart table under the flower covered ceremony structure and we both sat in two vintage rattan peacock back chairs. It was really special to have our moment up there looking at everyone as well as our own intimate time as we listened to the toasts over dinner. The second would be the moment I walked down the aisle. My dad unexpectedly passed away almost 3 years ago now and I didn’t know who would walk me down. My little sister stepped up and offered to carry my dress train + veil behind me as I walked (a true Diana moment!) and my husband Erik surprised me and met me half way so I wouldn’t have to walk fully alone. I don’t think there was a dry eye at the ceremony. The third was the decision for Erik and I and the photographer to hop in our island car after the ceremony and head to the pink sand beach during “golden hour” for photos … just us. And when i say just us… we were the ONLY people on French Leave Beach. The sun was setting and the sand had the most magical pink glow to it. Yes, the sand is really pink! It looked like we stepped into heaven and it was just us. The most beautiful photos and night of my life. It also gave Erik and I a chance to just breathe, take our shoes off, run around in the sand and dip our toes in the water… officially as husband and wife. Lots of kisses and hugs and thankfully our amazing photographer captured all of it! Pure bliss.

Tell us about your flowers, your gown, your favors, your cake, etc.

I wanted my bouquet to only be white/cream and island greenery. We did a mix of white roses, babies breath and natural island greenery pieces throughout to make a cascading effect. My dress was a dreamy strapless a-line Ines di Santo gown with boned corset bodice and embellished beaded and three dimensional floral embroidery throughout. The second layer of the dress was all lace. We had one signature cocktail, the island Goombay Smash! Our cake was an amazing coconut cream cake. Funny story, we kept the leftover wedding cake in the fridge at one of the homes on the estate where family was staying because the cooks were using that kitchen for the reception. The day after our wedding, most of our guests stayed to do a fun beach day, that night everyone wanted to eat our wedding cake again for dessert because they loved it so much! So, we brought it out and all had our wedding cake…again! Other details…we had late night gourmet pesto grilled cheeses and pepperoni pizzas for everyone and it was such a hit! Really soaked up all the Goombay Smashes consumed while dancing under the stars!

What is one piece of advice that you could give brides-to-be?

When planning a wedding, especially destination, things will often not always go as planned. Try to keep an open mind, trust your wedding planner (make sure *if you can* to meet them in person at your destination to get a feel for their planning process) and always keep the big picture in mind as to what your wedding represents  – true love, a beautiful marriage to your soul mate and your happily ever after!

Photography: Alex Thornton | Event Planning: Boy Meets Girl Weddings | Floral Design: Boy Meets Girl Weddings | Wedding Dress: Ines Di Santo | Invitations: MESH by Alex | Ceremony Venue: Squires Estate | Reception Venue: Squires Estate | Jewelry: Hops & Bun | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Bella Bridesmaid | Catering: Boy Meets Girl Weddings | Men's Attire: The Black Tux | Film Lab: Indie Film Lab

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Alex Thornton

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As things start to get back to our ‘old’ normal, you may start looking into venues…destination venues and you’re going to want to take note of this Caribbean dream in Jamaica, Round Hill Hotels and Villas. Round Hill offers a variety of luxury amenities on its lush 110-acre peninsula from private villas with pools to an award-winning chef and spa for you and your guests to have quite the wedding weekend. With top-notch wedding vendors and planners who take care of absolutely everything, your venue search will end here. And, as the world works on getting back to where we were, your mind will be at ease as they have enhanced their protocols including rapid on-site COVID-19 testing, customizable PPE and, even have a new virtual wedding package! Read on below and check out all of the breathtaking views Round Hill offers.

Couples are assigned a Master Wedding Planner who will ensure every detail is flawless and beautiful but safe. Our team of seasoned experts will help create the perfect romantic experience for a variety of events – weddings, popping the question, planning a private romantic dinner, or celebrating an anniversary.

In addition to enhanced property protocols, our team can customize PPE gear and sanitation kits, stations and decals branded for the occasion to ensure the maximum well-being of all guests in attendance. Rapid on-site COVID-19 testing is available for all guests in the comfort of their own private accommodation. Arrangements can be made prior to arrival and tests are administered by a local medical practitioner to ensure a safe & hassle- free experience.

New virtual wedding packages allow for extended gatherings through a hybrid in-person/virtual format. By utilizing an array of high-tech amenities offered, couples can invite to 100 additional guests to virtually participate in the celebrations designed to make them feel as much a part of the festivities.

A variety of locations outdoor and open-air spaces – conducive the social distancing – are available to host contained groups for wedding ceremonies, dinners, receptions, and other events – couples can celebrate a lifetime of love amidst a backdrop of striking golden sky reflected off gentle turquoise waters or dance the night away under dimly-lit lanterns as palm trees sway in the evening breeze. All our venues provide a magnificent panoramic view of the turquoise Caribbean waters, enclaved in the verdant hillside rainforest. 

The Spa Lawn is a magnificent wedding venue with a lush lawn that stretches to the sea and an 18th Century Great House as the picturesque backdrop. Perfect for ceremonies and cocktail receptions. The Hanover Room is situated on the hillside just above the shoreline, banquet room features floor-to-ceiling French windows. This wedding venue onto the Hanover Terrace and connects to the Georgian Grille – providing the ideal opportunity to have an indoor/outdoor event. 

Our Round Hill Beach is sun-kissed with white sand creating an intimate, casual, natural setting for a rehearsal dinner, barefoot wedding ceremony, lively cocktail reception, or fun wedding reception. The Infiniti Pool Sun Deck is a beautifully stoned deck with sprawling open space surrounded by rugged rocks and tropical foliage. The stunning sunsets make this location perfect for a small ceremony or cocktail party. 

Throughout our package selection are thoughtfully crafted touches incorporating local vendors and artisans and ensure an authentic Jamaican experience from beginning to end including:
Food: The use of fresh vegetables and herbs from our on-site Organic Garden in your dinner menu. 
Local artisans: Custom décor options utilizing the beautiful tropical flora around the property; locally made personalized items including welcome amenities, gift items, and souvenirs. 
Service vendors: A- list of internationally recognized service providers including professional photography and videography services to capture every moment. 

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Photography: Amanda K Photography | Photography: Saab Weddings Photography | Photography: Anne Rhett Photography | Wedding Venue: Round Hill Hotel and Villas

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Anne Rhett Photography

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We don’t know about you, but we’re counting down the days until sandals, flowy dresses and warm sunshine are back in our daily routine. While we *impatiently* wait for brighter days ahead, this colorful, sun-soaked wedding at Kukua Beach Club planned by Claire Duran Weddings and Events is here to satisfy all our summer cravings. Don’t miss out on the full gallery captured by Asia Pimentel Photography for some major tropical wedding inspo.

From Claire Duran Weddings and Events… Mark and Lauren met through Lauren’s best friend, who had been dating a good friend of Mark. They were introduced at a July 4th party at The Hamptons and immediately got along really well. After that weekend, the rest was history! When I met them one of the things they told me about them is how they loved to travel to random new places together in search of the perfect sunsets. Romantic, I know! 

Waiting for Summer to go to the beach with friends was their favorite part of the year. Needless to say, when it was time to decide where they would get married, Punta Cana, with its beaches and its sunsets, was everything they ever dreamed of. By the time that Lauren and Mark hired us, they had already put a deposit on a venue, called Kukua Beach Club. This was a venue I was familiarized with. As a result, when they told me that they were expecting around 150 guests, I hat to get my wheels turning right away, as this was a venue that capped around 90, when set in its traditional way. 

But thanks to our wonderful production partners on the ground, instead of giving them the default reception under the restaurant palapa, we transformed the outer area, by fully covering the pool area with a custom floor and giving them an open and seaside reception, as it had never been done at that venue! People dined and dance all night long under bistro lights, touched by a Caribbean breeze and the most gorgeous water backdrop. 

The wedding ended up having the perfect balance between Lauren and Mark’s style. For her, it was all about achieving something timeless, but without compromising a colorful palette. For him it was about finding a good mix between a tailored and sporty style. We tried to speak to all of that through the decor. But if I had to pick, one of my favorite elements of this day was the cake, and how Bake Artistry tried to take inspiration in Momental’s watercolor stationery detail and translate that into an edible masterpiece. Working with Lauren and Mark was the sweetest experience and we hope your readers find a lovely inspiration in their day!

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Wedding Planning and Design: Claire Duran Weddings And Events | Floral Design: Floristeria Carmona Decor | Flowers: Floristeria Carmona Decor | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Cake: Bake Artistry | Stationery: Momental Designs | Wedding Venue: Begokua Celaya | Beauty: Michelle Flaz | Linens: Nuage Designs | Musicians: Quartet | Photography and Videography: Asia Pimentel Photography | Rentals: JR& CO | Staging, Lighting, Sound, DJ: Vialx

It is not every day you see the love of your life in a movie, think “I’m going to marry that girl,” and it actually happens! But, for this MLB player, the stars aligned and the Puerto Rican natives were married at the Antiguo Casino de Puerto Rico among their closest family and friends (including two furry friends!) From a stunning beaded, champagne bridal gown to a burgundy suit jacket and all of the fabulous florals, it is safe to say Yaska Crespo brought out all of the stops when it came to planning the details, including a 6-tier marble wedding cake crafted by Vanessa Caro Cakes. Branco Prata was there to capture all of the beauty the couple and Puerto Rico had to offer with unreal images and Robert Michael Films with a powerful and heartfelt video! Take a peek and fall in love right along with us!

From Robert Michael Films…It was 2015 when Los Angeles Dodgers’ Kiké Hernandez watched “Hot Tub Time Machine 2” while he had a little downtime. Actress Mariana Paola Vicente caught his eye, and when he later found out she was a Puerto Rican living in LA – just like him – he reached out to her on social media congratulating her on her performance. Their first date would take place two months later, and although it took six months for them to share their true feelings that their friendship was something more, Kiké said he knew the very moment he saw her that he would one day propose.

After their intimate proposal while on vacation in Big Sur, the wedding planning began with the first task being to find the perfect Puerto Rico location for their wedding. With many guests traveling from out of town and possibly to Puerto Rico for the first time, it was important for them to show their guests all they loved about the island: the ocean, history, and culture. Their wedding ceremony was hosted at Castillo San Cristóbal, a historic waterside fortress. And their reception was at Antiguo Casino de Puerto Rico, another historic gem on many photographer’s bucket lists.

After their intimate wedding ceremony that took place in a circular setting so that the guests could enjoy the surrounding views, the string trio had a fun surprise for Kiké. They played Drake’s “In My Feelings” and if you’re a Drake fan, you might know that a portion of the song asks, “Kiki, do you love me?”, a play on the groom’s nickname.

Their wedding reception was full of these personal little touches, traditional elements combined with modern touches and stunning details. The all-white ballroom was the perfect blank canvas for the decor to really shine. Lush floral arrangements and metallic details complimented the otherwise clean and minimalistic look of the venue. Their overall vision of modern romance was met time and time again. And the cherry on the cake was their favors made by the mother of the bride, a former internationally featured painter –  glicées of their ceremony venue. 

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Photographer: Brancoprata | Videographer: Robert Michael Films | Event Designer: Acanthus Event Design | Wedding Planner: Yaska Crespo | Cake: Vanessa Caro Cakes | Stationery: Cheer Up Press | Rings: Forever Diamonds NY | Catering: Antiguo Casino De Puerto Rico | DJ : DJ Ment | Groomsmen Attire: Leonardo Fifth Avenue | Ceremony Music : Valencia Strings | Venue: Antiguo Casino De Puerto Rico | Venue: Plaza La Rogativa | Bride & Bridesmaids Gown Designers: Ecliptica | Bride Accessories: Alberto Torres | Bride Hair and Makeup: Lio Maldonado | Bride Shoes: Gianvito Rossi | Flower Girl Dress: La Muñequita | Groom Tux : Damiri Savile | Live Band : Cuenta Regresiva | Piraguero: S.A.K. Entertainment | Pleneros: Yuvi Plena | Signature Drinks: Bacardi | Wedding PR: Published Pretty

Juan and Edna’s wedding day celebration was a culmination of high school sweetheart love to a long-distance challenge while Juan served as a Marine to a Today Show proposal. As someone who married my own college sweetheart who serves in the military—I feel the most meaningful connection to these two and know that their bond is so, so powerful because of it. Today, we get to play virtual guests to their Big Day, planned by CM Events and Design and captured by Asia Pimentel.

From CM Events and Design… Edna and Juan are high school sweethearts. They went to Eastside High and call their love story an “Eastside Love Story”. After high school, Juan went off to the Marines and Edna stayed in New Jersey attending college. Once Juan completed 4 years in the Marines, he returned to New Jersey and pursued his dream of becoming a firefighter. Juan surprised Edna with a proposal, live on the Today Show!. Fast forward to the wedding weekend in the Dominican Republic.

Juan’s family is from the Dominican Republic and Edna’s family is from El Salvador. They knew they wanted a destination wedding and the Dominican Republic just seemed like the perfect destination to bring everyone together. Working with the planning and design team from CM Events and Design, Edna and Juan celebrated the weekend with about 60 of their closest friends and family at Punta Cana Resort and Club.

The bride wanted vintage details incorporated throughout the wedding, so for the invitations, the bride had custom newspapers designed and printed that included information about the weekend, their proposal and fun information about the couple.

Puntacana Resort & Club is home to the Caribbean’s ultimate beach and golfing experience, with 3 miles of magnificent white sand beaches and 45 holes of championship golf. The understated elegance and timeless vision of Oscar de la Renta, which defines the uniquely Dominican experience of staying at Puntacana Resort & Club, makes it a favorite and was the perfect location to host their sophisticated wedding celebration.

For the design, the bride wanted to incorporate two of her favorite colors, blush and dusty blue while still keeping the design romantic and timeless. Although the white sand beaches at the venue are some of the most beautiful in the world, the couple wanted to use the beach and the Caribbean Sea as a backdrop and opted to have a ceremony on the grass. The planning and design team had a custom arch built so that the simple ceremony space would have a statement design piece. White rose petals filled the aisle and white chivari chairs completed the ceremony space. Special touches during the ceremony were the flower girl wagon that carried the bride’s niece, the violinist and the vows that Edna and Juan wrote.

After the ceremony, guests were greeted with custom monogrammed coconuts; chilled coconut water was the perfect refreshment. To find their seats, guests found their place on the custom-built escort display wall which held vintage keys and name tags tied with hand died silk ribbon. The reception was held on the upper level of La Cana Golf and Beach Club on their Spanish Patio. The couple wanted an open-air feel with views of the beach and sea. The florals and decor included linen and table runner drape by BBJ, lounges with compote arrangements, gold rim chargers, taper candles, low centerpieces filled with garden roses and designed by Katie of Bloom 52. The open-air terrace was decorated with hanging bistro lights and smilax, and trees were added to the terrace area to transform the space as well. Other special touches included a cigar bar, a simply frosted fresh floral Dominican cake and a signature drink called the Yoshito named after their dog Yoshi which was given to Edna by Juan while he was deployed.

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Photography: Asia Pimentel Photography | Event Design: CM Events and Design | Event Planning: CM Events and Design | Floral Design: Bloom52 Floral Co. | Flowers: Mercaflor | Wedding Gown: Pronovias | Stationery: Paper Tales Custom | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Joanna August | Catering: Puntacana Resort & Club | Makeup: Melanie Gabrielle | Hair: Olga Montilla | Calligraphy: Custom Crafted | Tux: Generation Tux | Officiant: Jehison Cabrera | Venue: Puntacana Resort & Club | Clubhouse: La Cana Golf and Beach Club | DJ and Lighting: Vizman Entertainment | Linen: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: JR& CO | Ribbon: Jefferson Lane | Video: NCH Films

The love story that precedes this beachy fete has a serendipitous twist for the books… raised in Bermuda, this duo found their way to each other upon returning home after studying overseas. But what’s more—six years later they found an old photo together in which they both attended the same violin class, unknowingly from youth. It’s one of those stars align, meant-to-be kind of love stories. Their wedding from dasfete and Jenny Moloney is the sweetest culmination.

From the bride… Ryan and I first met 8 years ago in Bermuda, having both moved home to the island after studying overseas and we have been together ever since. However, a couple of years ago, a close family friend discovered an old photograph of me in a violin class when I was only 5 years old. One of the boys in the picture next to me turned out to be Ryan! We still marvel that the photo was discovered as we would have never otherwise realized that we had in fact known each other most of our lives.

As two Bermudians, we knew our island home was where we wanted our family and friends to come for a week of celebrating, boating, golfing, fishing and beaching. The search for the venue itself proved a little more difficult as we wanted somewhere off the beaten path. On an island 22 miles long, that is no easy feat. We eventually stumbled on Mount Pleasant — an expansive Bermudian estate tucked discreetly upon a hill with unrivaled views, tall trees, native florals and intricate gardens. It was originally built as Bermuda’s first court house, and is now owned by a childhood friend of Ryan’s who grew up in a family home next door to Mount Pleasant. It was the ultimate playground for two young boys to bounce around and climb everything in sight. Being able to host our ceremony and reception at a property steeped in Bermudian history with so many childhood memories was incredibly special and meaningful.

One of the very first things we came up with after getting engaged was the wedding hashtag – #AFariesTaleWedding – which was a spin on my future last name “Faries.” The hashtag, coupled with the beautiful gardens of Mount Pleasant, set the aesthetic for our wedding early on and became the main inspiration for the rest of the details. We envisioned a day of relaxed elegance which was brought to life by Selange and Matthew Strong of Dasfete. One of my favorite design elements was the pergola with sheer white draped fabric, hand built by Matthew and Dasfete’s carpenters, as it gave the tent a stunning visual effect.

Having our wedding close to home meant we could take advantage of local Bermudian talent including Coral Coast Clothing, which is owned by two close friends. With one of the founders, Adam Petty, in the wedding party, it couldn’t have been more fitting to feature their clothing line for the groomsmen attire. The custom Bermuda shorts matched the wedding’s soft color palette perfectly. Ryan also gifted the groomsmen personalized Coral Coast shirts with their initials monogrammed on the cuff, adding a special touch.

My signature cocktail was vodka-based, with a touch of mint, while Ryan’s featured Goslings rum. For our dessert bar, Dasfete incorporated an ice cream bar and an 8’ donut wall featuring “malsadas” (Portuguese donuts) as a nod to Ryan’s Azorean descent. Dasfete also framed a picture of our dog, Cedar, to mark the head table and it was an amazing touch to see her sweet little face when we sat down. The hashtag was appropriately displayed in giant lettering above the pool and was immersed on a bed of greenery surrounded by giant floating balloons. It was a popular spot for insta-worthy pictures!

As locals, we know that Bermuda weather can be volatile. Though we woke up to downpouring rain, when it came time to walk down the aisle the skies had cleared for a sunny ceremony and cocktail hour. With only one other quick rain shower happening while everyone was safely seated underneath the tent for dinner, we like to think the well-timed rain was a gentle nudge from our loved ones above, including both of our fathers who had passed away. The entire day was beautifully captured by our photographers, Jenny Moloney and her husband Blake. We fell in love with their charismatic personalities and are so happy they were able to travel all the way to Bermuda to capture our most special moments.

Hiring Das Fete was the single best decision we made in wedding planning. We had a specific vision in mind and Selange and Matt executed it flawlessly. They masterminded the garden wedding of our wildest dreams, transforming a backyard into a magical oasis fully equipped with sound, a dance floor and a kitchen which simply would not have been possible without them and their team.

One piece of advice is to choose wisely in picking where you will be getting ready on the day of the wedding. You spend a significant amount of time in that space and it also shapes your mood and your frame of mind for the rest of the day. Some of my fondest memories and pictures are from the pre-wedding hours spent with my bridesmaids getting ready and relaxing. Speakers and a playlist, PJ’s for your girls, some small decorations, candles to set the vibe and a little bubbly will go a long way!

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From the planner, dasfete… The most important part for Dasfete as planners and designers is to tell the bride and grooms story and create memories that they and their guests will forever cherish. The details create the experience and ambiance. Selange met with Lyndsay and Ryan to learn about their personalities, their love, their story to really bring to life their fairytale wedding.

In Bermuda you have limited tent options and only one choice for a tent liner. Dasfete wanted this tent to be a one of a kind elevated experience without taking away from the stunning gardens that surrounded it. They knew they needed to think outside the box. By creating custom built pergolas with hanging chandeliers and fabric the tent came alive and created an intimate and romantic space. The dinner tables featured romantic florals using local greenery and florals that would typically be grown in a Bermudian garden- Garden roses, Snap Dragons, Ferns, Stephanotis etc. In addition, the dancefloor was positioned in the middle of the tent with a quote from one of their favourite reggae songs (Buju Banton- I don’t wanna let you go, with you I’m in no hurry) with a beautiful lounge that divided the dining area from the dancing area- allowing for ease of flow and creating intimate spaces. The custom-built bars were positioned next to the dancefloor adorned with hanging florals, pendants and endless candles. An outdoor lounge was draped with Edison bulbs under a starry night so those taking a break from the dance floor could take in the stunning property under the stars… tying in perfectly with #AFariesTaleWedding. The gardens and house were up lit with LED lights in a blush amber color which created a dramatic transition as the sun set.

Photography: Jenny Moloney Photography | Cinematography: Lara Smith | Event Design: dasfete | Event Planning: dasfete | Cakes: Sweet P | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Shona Joy | Catering: Take Five Catering | Makeup Artist: Afroditi Yiovreki | Hair: Raquel from Blue Print Studio | Groomsmen's Attire: Coral Coast Clothing | Wedding Venue: Private Estate: Mount Pleasant | Bridal Dress Shop: Rime Arodaky | Bridal Gown: Rime Arodaky | Bridal Hair Accessories: jennifer behr | Bridal Robe: Bloomingdales | Bridal Veil: Amsale | Bridemaid Robes: ASOS | Getting Ready Venue: Coral Beach & Tennis Club | Mixologist: The Blind Pig Cocktail Co. | Paper Suite/Graphic Design: Christina Lenahan | Rehearsal Dinner Venue: Coral Beach & Tennis Club | Stationery Suite: Sage Paper Co.

The SMP team recently took a little girls trip where we were lucky enough to attend an amazing wedding weekend set in one of the most beautiful, tranquil and undisturbed places in the world – Jumby Bay Island! The island is reachable only by boat and once you arrive, you are left completely breathless by the sparkling sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and the most luxurious resort in all of the Caribbean. Sounds pretty stellar huh? Yeah. It is. So grab your bags and come join us as we take you through the day-by-day itinerary of our wedding weekend at Jumby Bay Island Resort – aka the best destination wedding venue EVER!

Thursday:

It’s the start of the weekend and we have finally arrived to the resort! We were literally blown away when we saw our rooms (well, I guess we should say our ESTATE). Private Residence Morning Glory is a fabulous colonial style villa set in eight private acres of abundant tropical gardens. So, basically, heaven on earth. It offers four suites in the main house, two private cottages, an ocean view, an infinity pool and a private gym. As you can imagine, the interior was just as breathtaking as the estate itself. Later this weekend – the ceremony and reception will both be held at Private Residence Morning Glory’s private white sand beach.

To end the first day in paradise, we attended an amazing welcome dinner at The Estate House, where we enjoyed the most delicious cuisine combining classic fare with modern island flavors. Let’s just say that was one meal we’ll probably remember for the rest of our lives! Foodie couples who are looking for a place to host their wedding weekend event that is as beautiful as the food is delicious – The Estate House is the perfect combo.

Friday:

It’s officially the day before wedding day and to celebrate the upcoming nuptials we enjoyed a day full of the most fun island activities! We started off the morning with yummy smoothies and fresh fruit (the best kind of breakfast) at The Jumby Bay Veranda and after went on an exciting snorkeling trip! After admiring the beautiful marine life of the island, we had a bite for lunch and sipped on some tropical cocktails at The Pool Grille. It was the best way to start the day!

Later that night, it was time for the rehearsal dinner! It was such a unique experience unlike any other rehearsal dinner we’d been to. It started off with cocktails and passed apps at one of the Estate Homes, then we traveled to another Estate Home for the dinner portion of the night! It was pretty out of this world. Fun fact: Private chefs are assigned to each Estate Home, so when you book a home for you and your wedding guests, you have a dedicated staff for the entire weekend!

Saturday:

TODAY IS THE DAY! And boy was it a good one… We began our day getting wedding-ready with morning yoga, coffee and breakfast at The Jumby Bay Veranda. Then later, we decided to try out The Jumby Bay Spa, voted the “Caribbean’s Best Resort Spa 2018”… safe to say it lived up to it’s reputation. The spa treatments combine the use of modern therapeutic practices with ancient healing remedies of the West Indies and African cultures. We all got the Shiro-Abyanga Massage, it was truly a spa experience that can only be had at this one-of-a-kind resort.

The wedding ceremony and reception were sooo incredibly beautiful. They were both held on our private beach of the Private Residence Morning Glory. It was such an intimate and special location to celebrate such a beautiful occasion.

Sunday:

We knew this day had to come eventually, but truth be told, we woke up on Sunday so sad knowing that we had to leave this perfect place! It ended in the most lovely way possible, with a farewell brunch at the private farm on the island. We sipped on fresh mimosas and farm-to-table cuisine, wishing the weekend would never come to an end. We are already so excited to go back to this magical place! Whoever is having their destination wedding weekend at Jumby Bay Island Resort and will kindly send us an invite – consider our bags packed!!

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Photography: Becca Brendler | Hotel: Eden Rock St Barth

There are endless places to say “I do” in the Caribbean, and with so many beautiful places to choose from, the decision of which to pick can feel a little bit daunting. But don’t worry… if you’re dreaming of tying the knot on one of these heavenly islands – we’re making the decision of where to host your wedding weekend in paradise the easiest choice ever. Read on for 5 reasons why we’re dubbing Round Hill Hotel & Villas our #1 wedding venue in all of the Caribbean.

1. Weekend exclusivity

This is one of our favorite things about Round Hill Hotel & Villas – they only host one wedding per weekend. How amazing is that!? This way you don’t have to worry about your guests being confused on who’s wedding is where or hearing another wedding’s cocktail hour during your ceremony (cringe-worthy…). It also allows for unparalleled service and undivided attention given to you and your guests during your entire wedding weekend… guaranteeing every moment is personalized to perfection.

2. Your very own wedding planner

Paradise shouldn’t include caring about timelines, stressful deadlines or worrying about anything besides where you’re getting your next piña colada – are we right?! Lucky for you, Round Hill’s talented and dedicated staff of wedding planners will take care of everything for you. From making sure the décor is looking on point to assisting vendors with anything they need. Sounds pretty ideal, huh?

3. Super flexible wedding packages

Because Round Hill knows that not every wedding budget is the same, they offer multiple customized wedding packages that allow you to choose a package that best fits your budget! No matter you’re throwing a big beach bash with 200 guests or an intimate ceremony with just your closest few – Round Hill can do it all (for the price you’re looking for!)

4. Endless venue options

Another perk of being the only couple getting married during your wedding weekend is being able to choose from all six of Round Hill’s various venue options. Want your ceremony on a sprawling lawn? You got it. Want your reception in the sand on the beach? Done! Round Hill truly has a wedding locale option for every style.

5. Fun activities for your guests

With the plethora of fun things to do at Round Hill during your destination wedding weekend – it’s impossible for your guests to run out of entertainment! From water sports to yoga and tennis, to spa days and jazz nights – the fun vacay activities never ends.

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Photography: Amanda K Photography | Photography: Brandon Hicks

Grab your sunhat and sandals cause today we’re jetting off to the white sands and crystal clear waters of the Bahamas with Simply Sarah Photography! This stunning tropical fête planned by Boy Meets Girl Weddings is a beach lover’s dream. Guests dined in paradise under palms trees and cafe lights at the most picture perfect reception locale of all time. If anyone needs us, we’ll just be over living vicariously through these stunning wedding photos for the rest of the day…

From the bride… Josh and I met at Tishman Speyer (where we both still work) in the summer of 2012 while I was interning. We would often see each other at Equinox and became friends. Throughout my senior year of college, Josh would randomly check in to see how I was doing. I started working at Tishman a week after graduation. A few happy hours and nights out later, our friendship turned into something more. While there is nothing wrong with a traditional wedding, I knew it was not what I wanted for Josh and I.

I loved the idea of bringing our closest family and friends together for a full weekend, but wanted to do it somewhere that was intimate and small, an oasis. After finding The Cove in Eleuthera, I knew that would be the place. For our rehearsal dinner, I drew my inspiration from a beach club in Mykonos that was very Boho chic yet cool and relaxed. Mish, our event designer, nailed it in every way. For the wedding reception, I wanted to create an insanely fun atmosphere that was a cross between the most epic house party with friends and a night out in Ibiza. To say it was the best night of our lives is a total understatement.

Photography is a very intimate aspect of a wedding and we were so lucky to have had Sarah and Will there to capture our love and the best weekend of our lives. Everyone who knows me will grow tired of hearing me sing Simply Sarah Photography’s praises. Is she that good? YES, her incredible talent truly warrants this type of admiration. Aside from Sarah’s mind-blowing abilities behind the camera, she is the most kind-hearted, interesting and wonderful person. Sarah has a gift for understanding that she is not just taking photos, but capturing the soul and emotion of a moment, one you will look back on and cherish for the rest of your life.

If you’ve seen Sarah’s photography you will understand that she does not need a review. Simply, her work speaks for itself. Sarah and her amazing husband Will showed up early to our wedding weekend to scout and plan ingenious opportunities to shoot us in breathtaking, off-the-beaten-path locations. The two worked fervently and brought a fresh perspective to shooting our celebratory weekend. Every moment spent with Sarah and Will was serene and gave us an opportunity to reflect on the momentous occasion.

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Photography: Elizabeth Lanier Photography | Event Design: Boy Meets Girl Weddings | Event Planning: Boy Meets Girl Weddings | Floral Design: Boy Meets Girl Weddings | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Catering: The Cove Eleuthera | Wedding Venue: The Cove Eleuthera | Processing & Development: PhotoVision Prints

“The best moments of our lives have happened when we are eating and drinking with people that we love.” …words from the beautiful Bride, and I couldn’t agree more. She is in the food and wine industry and her Groom designs restaurants, hotels and bars as an architect. For this foodie-loving duo, an appropriate celebration at Perla Restaurant in Puerto Rico was just the experience they wanted to give their guests and remember their Big Day by. Complete with florals from STEM Events, every darling bit was snapped up by Lucky You Weddings for us to soak in today!

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From STEM Events… Say Cheese and she will smile. And she smiled when she saw the restaurant with the decor she wanted to have when she entered the room. With her fluffy dress and great smile she said to her husband: “look Jean Paul this is what I wanted”, – and my job was done. I prepared Melissa a bouquet of Garden Roses but I included Salvia, Rosemary and Olive Branches. I got inspired by everything related to wine and cheese and cooking ingredients. Herbs, mint julep vases or grapes were among my decor choices. This wedding was all about her beauty in her fluffy dress that made her look like a young Grace Kelley and the great food and wine everybody enjoyed at the iconic restaurant.

From the Bride… My husband and I are both lovers of good food and wine. The best moments of our lives have happened when we are eating and drinking with people that we love. I have been in the food and wine industry since I started my career. My husband also designs restaurants, hotels and bars at his Architecture job. We both have French and Spanish ancestry. We knew from the start that we had to incorporate our heritage and passions into every detail of the wedding. Perla Restaurant at La Concha Resort is an architectural landmark at our hometown of San Juan, Puerto Rico. Anabelle did a fabulous job in capturing our idea of making our wedding a culinary and cultural experience, and the decor was thematic and beautiful. Our love for each other and for our families combined with all of the beautiful details of our special day made the wedding perfect. We couldn’t be happier!

Photography: Lucky You Weddings | Coordination: Anne Marie Kleis | Floral Design: STEM Events | Wedding Dress: D'Royal Bride | Invitations: Minted | Ceremony Location: Parroquia Stella Maris | Reception Venue: Perla Restaurant | Reception Venue: Perla Restaurant | Bridesmaids' Dresses: JJ's House | Hair and Makeup: Junior Meléndez | DJ: Jose Concepcion | Band: Red & Blue Band | Groom's Attire: Leonardo Fifth Avenue | Bride Shoes: Thalia Sodi | Cheese : Vaca Negra | Rentals: STEM Events

Shealynn and Ross were married in Sunny Turks and Caicos this past March. Their whimsical wedding weekend was filled with the memories that dreams are made of. Before it all began, Anticipate Invitations crafted an amazing stationery suite that started with a Save-The-Date that invited their guests to “Fly Away To Turks and Caicos!”  Held at The Shore Club in Long Bay, a remote resort with crystal blue waters and soft sandy beaches, this is a wedding that celebrates all things warm and sunny and fun and… well, just out and out exciting. Erich McVey and Sculpting With Time Productions were there to capture the emotions, the details and the fun. Read on for more from event planner and designer extraordinaire Two Be Wed!

Shealynn and Ross invited their friends to Fly Away with them on a beautiful vintage Save the Date travel poster. The airplane in the save the date is the very same vintage aircraft that Ross’s father owns.

Their entire stationery suite was designed by Anticipate Invitations. The incredible letterpress foiled invitation suite was multilayered with a vellum sea fan wrap and gold speck cork liner.

The wedding design was inspired by 1960’s Luxury Island life ~ a combination of tropical chic + casual elegance with a bold primary color palette of navy, red, yellow, and orange. 

In his vows, the Groom shares a quote with his Bride:“True happiness is found in unselfish love. A love which increases in proportion… until it is shared.” The officiant tells them that they ‘… will weather many storms, together… to shelter each other during those storms.’

Watch and listen… as Sculpting With Time Productions captures their words, and the essence of Shealynn and Ross’s forever kind of love…
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More from Natalie at Two Be Wed… Anticipate Invitations made individual pieces of hanging art of ocean life that was hung on a large wooden installation leading guests to their seats where acrylic menus with gold grommets sat on top of the plate and a custom ikat napkin and coral beaded napkin ring lay.

Erich McVey and Emmy Award winning duo Whitney and Alex Douglas from Sculpting with Time captured the essence of this destination experience.

Lead Designer Ernst Jansen of Flowers by EA created eclectic island inspired centerpieces using colorful and textural elements including miniature bananas and fruit.

From the Bride… As a small town Canadian girl, I never dreamed that my career goals as an engineer in the oil and gas industry would lead me to Texas, let alone to Ross. Ross grew up in rural Pennsylvania and got a master’s degree in energy management which eventually put him in the same business where our paths crossed. After many business lunches in Pennsylvania where we would talk as friends about our struggles balancing success, family, and the dating world, we eventually realized that something more than a friendship had developed.

I had always wanted to visit NYC at Christmastime and shared this with Ross who responded with a carefree “let’s go”. A few days later, on a cold December evening, we officially became a couple at the top of the Empire State Building. We then spent many months dealing with the challenges of a long distance relationship while trying to get Ross a job transfer to Texas. Borders couldn’t keep us from finding each other nor could the distance of many state lines tear us apart. During this time we were forced to strengthen our relationship by talking about what we wanted out of our lives and enduring many plane rides to visit each other; besides what better way to truly know a person than by traveling with them?! Very early in our relationship we discussed our mutual desire to have a destination wedding (someday) and that became a reality for us as a couple when Ross finally got his transfer over a year later and then planned a surprise proposal at the top of the Empire State building where it all began.

We envisioned a beautiful locale that would allow us to mix an elegant black tie affair with laid back, island cool to prevent it from feeling stuffy.

Gown shopping will forever be one of the most special experiences in this process since it brought my mother, mother-in-law and sister-in-law together at Kleinfeld NYC. I was very worried that the experience would be overwhelming and that I would be steered towards a simple beach gown rather than the showstopper I desired. Kleinfeld provided a superior experience and we had the lovely Camille from “Say Yes to the Dress” as our stylist. She selected a stunning Lazaro ball gown as the first dress and I was in disbelief that it could be that easy! My maternal grandmother passed away many years ago and left me with some gifts for purchasing my gown. I was wearing her vintage onyx ring during the selection process and I have no doubt she was there in spirit to lead me in the right direction.

Some of my favorite moments on my wedding day: Having a first look with my dad… and having him sing the first song Ross and I danced to. It was the same song he sang to my mom over 30 years ago at their wedding! Not to mention laughing hysterically while running down the beach during photos and trying not to trip over the giant dress! We also loved the incorporation of some simple touches that signified the joining of our two countries – Canada and USA flag cufflinks for the groomsmen, a humorous bar menu representing where we come from, and a thoughtful gift from my parents at the rehearsal dinner which was printed with “united we stand”. Ross and I both come from families who’s parents have been married for more than 30 years. This is such a rare thing in today’s society that we wanted the ceremony to have some special moments to honor them. These moments with our family and speaking out loud the vows we wrote for each other will always be the most meaningful of our entire marriage celebration!

We have countless special memories from our wedding celebration. We also had the chance to give back to the island that hosted us. Mission “Two Be Wed” was a unique idea from Natalie, our wedding planner, that we couldn’t wait to be a part of. A group of our wedding party and family spent a day helping paint school classrooms that had been affected only a few months earlier by Hurricane Irma. Seeing how happy those children were reminded us that the power of love can do good things in this world!

One of the most important pieces of advice I can give brides-to-be is to hold true to the vision you have for your wedding regardless of what others think. Even if…  it is out of the ordinary or over the top. Others may not see how this will translate into a unique experience, but your guests will certainly feel appreciated, and most importantly, YOU will have fun! Let your groom feel like himself with his wedding attire, too. Ross insisted on wearing cowboy boots for our island wedding but he truly looked like himself coming down the aisle (in a new, stylish pair, of course!)

Finally, I can’t say enough how much a wedding planner helps with your sanity. Not only did Natalie of Two Be Wed, execute a perfectly styled and on-time event, she also kept us calm when a hurricane hit our venue only months before the wedding!

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Photography: Erich McVey Photography | Cinematography: Sculpting With Time Productions | Event Planning and Design: Two Be Wed | Floral Design: Flowers By EA | Wedding Dress: JLM Couture | Cake: Cakes To Di For | Stationery: Anticipate Invitations | Makeup: Thea Makeup Artistry | Hair : Brigitte Wildt | DJ: DJ Dayoh | Suit: Balani | Venue: The Shore Club | Rehearsal Dinner Venue: Somewhere Cafe and Lounge | Rentals and Linens: Got U Covered | Resort: The Shore Club | Steel Pan Drums Band: Kelci Talbot | Welcome Party: Da Conch Shack

Not sure what it is about Claire Duran Weddings and Events plus Asia Pimentel Photography, but as a duo, they send us the most amazing weddings. This one is as close to romantic perfection as it gets! Steeped in 50 parts tradition  and 50 parts pure romance, the day couldn’t have been more beautiful. See the full gallery right here!

And see all these beautiful moments in motion in this short film from NCH Films…

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From Claire Duran Events… Lili and Leo live in NYC. Both having families from the Dominican Republic and Colombia, they wanted to have a destination wedding in a location that had special meaning to their origins and culture. They set for Santo Domingo’s Colonial City in the Dominican Republic, first settlement in the New World. It was also so special to be to plan a wedding only 15 minutes away from were I personally grew up. Saying I was excited about being their planner is an understatement. The beautiful architecture of the 1500s where all their events took place, was already as beautiful of a backdrop as any wedding would ever wish for! Combining a team of creatives both from the United States and locally, this wedding showcases a lovely palette of pastels with a touch of burgundy and soft and romantic details.

Head on over to the full gallery for more stunning shots by Asia Pimentel Photography!

Photography: Asia Pimentel Photography | Videographer: NCH Films | Wedding Planning & Design: Claire Duran Weddings And Events | Flowers: Amy Lauren Floral Design | Cake: Cake Studio by Mily Pimentel | Stationery: Stephanie B Design | Ceremony Venue: Quinta Dominica | Reception Venue: Logia Cuna de America | Catering: Ambrosia Boutique Caterers | Hair & Makeup: Yamila Lebron | Ceremony Musicians: Quartet | DJ, Sound, Lighting: Eventix | Hotel (Getting Ready): Hostal Nicolas de Ovando | Reception Band: Orquesta Renacer | Rentals: Eventos y Alquileres del Cibao | Rentals: Divano Luxury Furniture Rental | Tenting & Structures: Vialx

One look at Round Hill and it’s easy to see why it’s one of our fave spots on the planet. The gorgeous accommodations, the tasty cuisine, the breathtaking views… You guys, this place is awesome. But you know what’s better than listening to us go on and on about all of its amazing attributes? Hearing from a real bride who knows firsthand. Say hello to the insanely gorgeous Leanna, a bride who tied the knot in one crazy cool celebration, handsome groom and candlelit reception included. Scroll for an awesome Q&A sesh.

Q: HOW DID YOU DECIDE ON ROUND HILL AS YOUR WEDDING DESTINATION?

Long story short, we fell in love at first sight. Although, my family is originally from Jamaica, most of our guests would be travelling from abroad and we wanted a location that was convenient and showcased the best Jamaica has to offer. Prior to selecting a venue, we planned a 2-week trip driving all over Jamaica – from Montego Bay to the Blue Mountains – to visit venues we had been eyeing online. Round Hill was the second venue on our itinerary and we were blown away. Every inch of the resort is pristine — the pictures simply do not do the property justice. Everyone we met was warm and welcoming. Most importantly, we trusted they understood the vision we had for our special day.

Q: WERE YOU ANXIOUS ABOUT PLANNING A DESTINATION WEDDING, AND DID THE ROUND HILL TEAM HELP ALLEVIATE THAT? HOW?

Absolutely! We live in New York City. We knew planning from that far would be challenging and our tastes can be quite discerning (read: picky). The Round Hill team was very helpful in easing a lot of our concerns and answering every question we had along the way. They know the very best vendors on the island and were flexible in allowing us to use some vendors we had also sourced ourselves. We could rest assured that our wedding would be top notch while avoiding a lot of wasted time doing extensive research on our own.

Q: WHAT MADE THE PLANNING PROCESS EXTRA SPECIAL FOR YOU?

Focusing on the little details that made each guest feel special and showcasing our personality as a couple. 50 to 60 of our closest friends and family were travelling great distances, so many of the details I planned were to make their stay as seamless as possible and help them feel appreciated for sharing this weekend with us. Each welcome bag included a handwritten note, a few of my favourite Jamaican snacks, sunscreen, mints, heel protectors (for the ladies), bottled water, and a bottle of rum. We made sure paper fans were on hand during the outdoor ceremony and instead of standard place cards, we had each guests’ name laser cut out of wood as a keepsake.

Q: BRIEFLY TAKE US THROUGH YOUR WEDDING DAY.

That morning, we both woke up nervous and anxious, but we fully trusted Racquel, the Round Hill wedding planner, to deliver on everything we had planned. We opted not to have bridal parties to keep it simple. Instead, we invited family and a few close friends to share the afternoon getting ready with us at two separate villas. When the photographer arrived, the day moved pretty quickly from there. Running slightly behind schedule made for somewhat of a hurried first look and shortly after we were shuttled to the ceremony site, the Spa Lawn. Our absolute favourite part of the day had to be the ceremony – the setting sun and ocean backdrop, looking down the aisle to see your soon-to-be husband, and reciting your vows in front of everyone you love. It was nothing short of magical. Lots of hugging, champagne, and pictures ensued.

Another highlight of the day was seeing the reception site! As a detail-obsessed person, for months I tried to envision it all. Yet, I still wasn’t prepared for how beautifully it would all come together. Two days prior I had handed over two large suitcases of wedding décor to Racquel and, with no explanation at all, she had arranged everything exactly as I had envisioned.

Q: IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WOULD HAVE DONE DIFFERENTLY?

Not much. Everything turned out better than I could’ve imagined. If I had to choose one thing, I would’ve taken a few more deep breaths, spent less time worrying about the weather or my look and more time in the moment, soaking up every second with family and friends. I would’ve taken a few more bites of that delicious food too, lol.

Q: DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR PERSONS PLANNING A DESTINATION WEDDING?

Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and imagine your entire family and all your close friends spending quality time together in an immaculate resort on a beautiful island. A destination wedding can be a lot more to think through, but all the minutiae of wedding planning will be absolutely worth it. And of course, choosing to work with people that you trust with your life is essential in helping you enjoy every minute of it.

Whether you dream of an intimate celebration with just close friends and family or a grander affair with all of your loved ones, Round Hill can make it all happen… and beautifully. Plus, with six fabulous venue options, amazing wedding packages and a team of talented planners that know everything about pretty I do’s, you can rest easy knowing that your every detail is being taken care of – even from far away. Leanna and Mario’s wedding was a dream come true, and yours can be just as magical. Contact Round Hill today to start planning that wedding in paradise.

Photography: Adrian McDonald | Ceremony Venue: Round Hill Hotel and Villas | Reception Venue: Round Hill Hotel and Villas | Groom: Mario Zillner | Bride: Leanna Wilson

This forever winter has us dreaming of days spent lounging on warm beaches, soaking in the rays and sipping cocktails with our besties. A little bit like Sarah and Matthew’s amazing celebration at Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa. Along with 65 of their closest friends and family, this gorgeous duo ventured from North Carolina to party the night away in paradise (aka, the Caribbean), complete with a giant cut-out of their fur baby. Warm your hearts in the full gallery captured Punta Cana Photographer.

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From Punta Cana Photographer… Sarah and Matthew decided to venture from North Carolina to get married at a gorgeous resort located on the pristine beaches of CapCana. Surrounded by 65 of their closest family and friends, they enjoyed every minute of the celebration.

The day started early for us, when we headed to Matthew’s room to enjoy the fun moments that were taking place at Matt’s hectic getting ready. With people running all over the place and the guys enjoying a few drinks, everything was set for a good day. Things simply got better when we saw Sarah’s happiness shining through her eyes before getting her dress on.

The location they picked couldn’t be any better for an intimate ceremony by the shore at Secrets CapCana. Minutes before the ceremony, Sarah’s dad almost made us cry with his tears, and a unique reaction that we love to see when a proud dad sees her daughter about to get married. It’s something we cannot explain with words.

Sarah & Matthew’s friends rocked the day with their smiles, inside jokes and their patience! Hey, it’s not easy to take pictures under the strong Caribbean sun, even in winter. At night, everybody took their shoes off and danced like there was no tomorrow. We hope you enjoy looking at the photos as much as we did while capturing them.

Cinematography: Punta Cana Photographer | Wedding Dress: The Lily Rose | Makeup: Secrets CapCana | Photograpy: Punta Cana Photographer | Resort: Secrets CapCana

The sun is shining, the water is crystal clear, you’re barefoot on the beach and it’s the happiest day of your life. If this isn’t paradise, I’m not sure what is. Julie Livingston captured this boho chic beach wedding and as we continue to push through Mother Nature’s rough winter, this gallery of island inspiration is giving us life – see it all right this way!

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From Julie Livingston… A filmy, dreamy boho chic Caribbean wedding on a tropical island.

Photography: Julie Livingston Photography | Floral Design: Blossom Artistry | Wedding Dress: Hayley Paige | Reception Venue: Leverick Bay Resort | Hair + Makeup: meraki beauty | Groom's Attire: Bonobos | Wedding Venue: Saba Rock Resort | Accomodations: Leverick Bay Resort | Bride Shoes: Handmade by bride | Film Processing: Richard Photo Lab | Paper Goods: Print Charleston

With the Puerto Rican sun shining bright, these two said “I do” in front of friends and family and got ready to dance the night away. Their smiles never faded and Love & Light Photographs captured every beautiful moment, from the Bride and her merry maids getting ready earlier in the day to endless sweet moments between the new Mr. and Mrs. Let’s kick off the week in a wonderful way with this gorgeous gallery and you can thank me later for that grin that just won’t go away.

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From the Bride… After my husband and I got engaged in Greece, we didn’t really have an idea as to where we wanted to get married; all we knew was that we wanted to plan the best party to celebrate our love with our favorite people. Finding the ‘perfect’ venue was probably that hardest part, and after endless searching, my husband was actually the one who suggested we go back to our favorite courtyard in Puerto Rico, which was at the Hotel El Convento. And then just like that Puerto Rico seemed the obvious choice for many reasons but the main reason was that it was the first place we traveled to together, fell more in love with each other, and fell in love with the island. Old San Juan was the perfect place to encapsulate our vision for our wedding which was: timeless, romantic, and a day you’ll never forget!

There was so much love that went around all weekend, between our friends and our family. From the ceremony at La Rogativa – my mom walking me down the aisle while my cousin sang the acoustic version of Empire of the Sun’s, “Walking on a Dream” (it was so hard to hold back tears); Will and I sharing our own written vows, to the reception at El Convento – both of us sharing special dances with our moms; Will’s family belting out the German toast, Ein Prosit, every hour; everyone letting loose and ripping up the dance floor; being thrown up in the air more times than I can count; surprising everyone with a five person Puerto Rican band called, Pleneros, to liven up the party, and the vejigantes to dance the evil spirits away, AND last but not least everyone belting out Bohemian Rhapsody (from memory) even after the DJ was gone! It was a complete whirlwind and we both wish we could re-live it again and again. Puerto Rico will always have a special place in our hearts!

More recently it’s hard to look back without crying because of the devastation Hurricane Maria caused to everyone on the island, including our friends and family. We ask that everyone please help our fellow Americans by donating in any way possible.

Photography: Jessa Schifilliti, Photographer | Floral Design: Angel Vasquez Vega | Wedding Dress: Maggie Sottero | Invitations: Marlie Vodofsky | Hair + Makeup: Unik Stuio | Band: In-Sync Wedding DJ Cuquitin | Wedding Venue: Hotel El Convento

Cold weather is not my jam, and having spent the past week in London where the temps were much lower than ideal, this beach Bahama wedding editorial photographed by Simply Sarah is literally my dream. Molly McKinley Designs created a casual, modern affair inspired by the existing aesthetic of The Cove Eleuthera, Bahamas. My favorite part is the foraged floral details by Boy Meets Girl Weddings…or maybe its the dreamy stationery by Lazywood Lane. I can’t choose! It’s all so good.

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From Simply Sarah Photography… The Cove Eleuthera is the perfect backdrop for a Caribbean wedding. The architecture and decor are crisp and clean, but it still feels like home. In planning this shoot, we wanted to keep true to the resort’s casual modern style, so the design felt like an extension of the beauty that already existed there. Our invitation suite from Lazywood Lane felt modern and fresh, without a lot of calligraphy. My favorite touch was the abstract drawing of Eleuthera! The vellum invitation over the textured leaf paper made the suite different and interesting.

We decided to set up the ceremony down on one of the island’s small beaches. Clear ghost chairs allowed a full view of the ocean. Our florist created an organic “garden” in the sand with local greenery, opened white roses, and tall sea oats from the island. The sea oats played with the island breeze, dancing back and forth. We wanted to enhance the natural beauty of the Bahamas and our couple, and this ceremony did just that.

The reception was intimate and incorporated more organic textures. We set our table underneath the palms at The Cove, which felt even more magical as the sun began to set. The pathways throughout the property glowed with ambient light. Our florist found some beautiful and interesting textures on the island to incorporate into the tablescape. The napkins were tied with woven rope and oyster shells, for a subtle beachy touch. Black minimalist candelabras kept true to the design of The Cove and added height. A gauzy runner woven with greenery added a feminine, romantic feel.

Photography: Elizabeth Lanier Photography | Event Design + Planning: Molly McKinley Designs | Floral Design: Boy Meets Girl Weddings | Invitations: Lazywood Lane | Shoes: Bella Belle | Jewelry: Susie Saltzman | Hair + Makeup: The Hair and Makeup Collective | Wedding Venue: The Cove Eleuthera | Bridal Shop: Bash Bozeman | Film Processing: PhotoVision Prints | Rentals: Boy Meets Girl Weddings

We’re true believers that honeymoons are an absolute necessity – whether that means taking a weekend excursion to your fave city or jetting off for a 14-day stay in paradise, that post-wedding relaxation basically needs to happen. But if you’ve found yourself at a loss on just where to celebrate, we’re making it easy. Check out seven of our favorite locales for the best kind of newlywed vacationing.

SHERATON MAUI RESORT & SPA

Why we love it: Other than the fact that it’s totally convenient (read: no passport or foreign currency required), the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa is the perfect combo of laid-back, post-wedding relaxation and fun activities that will keep you and your love basking in the sun. Take a scuba lesson or two, attend the nightly cliff dive ceremonies at sunset or spend your days golfing the Ka’anapali’s Royal and Kai courses.

What you can’t miss: SPG Weddings’ Honeymoon Wishes. It’s a honeymoon registry service that allows your family and friends to gift amazing entertainment and activities for you and yours, like beachside luaus, snorkel cruises and sunset cocktails on a sailboat. You’ll love the awesome itinerary, and your guests will love knowing they contributed to all of the fun.

W PUNTA DE MITA  

Why we love it: Located right on the beach in Mexico’s IT city, W Punta de Mita will blow you away with their gorgeous decor that is one part modern chic and one part cultural artistry. Trust us: the design alone makes for one amazing stay with vibrant colors and unique decor dotting literally every inch of space. Oh, and the rooms? The views will have you never wanting to leave.

What you can’t miss: The world-famous restaurants. Think Southeast Asian cuisine at Spice Market, live cooking stations at Venazu, adult ice cream (!) at WET Deck’s poolside restaurant and signature ceviche at Chevicheria, a converted 1950’s Chevy truck. And if you want to keep thing ultra-private, make reservations at the exclusive MESA1 with your very own personal chef that will design a seven-course tasting menu just for you.

THE ST. REGIS BORA BORA RESORT

Why we love it: Honeymoons are for relaxing and escaping it all, and if you’re looking for the perfect spot to lay back on the beach and do just that, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort is IT. This French Polynesian hot spot is all about soaking in the sun… AND partaking in some of the most unique activities on the planet. We’re all for renting an Aquabike Underwater Scooter, visiting a Pearl Farm or checking out the resort’s private Lagoonarium when you’re not lazying it up in paradise.

What you can’t miss: Their overwater villas. You can literally sleep, eat and relax in luxurious amenities perched right above the crystal clear waters of the lagoon. It’s awesome.

LE MERIDIEN TAMPA 

Why we love it: This boutique hotel used to be a federal courthouse, so you know the architecture is awesome. On top of that, the Le Meridien Tampa’s Unlock Art™ program gives guests FREE access to some of Tampa’s best galleries and museums by just showing your room card. Which means you can spend your day soaking in the creativity and culture, then head back to the hotel for an amazing meal at one of their yummy restaurants.

What you can’t miss: Their Bicycle Programme. With an entire city to explore (and a list of amazing museums to visit), you can rent a bike, helmet and lock for just $8/hour.

THE WESTIN NEW ORLEANS CANAL PLACE

Why we love it: The French Quarter is just steps away, but that isn’t the only reason we adore this gorgeous hotel in the heart of New Orleans. From the stunning architecture to the awesome Mississippi River locale to their Make a Green Choice program, you’ll love all of the fab amenities of The Westin New Orleans Canal Place, plus their proximity to Bourbon Street. Not to mention all of the amazing restaurants New Orleans has to offer… there’s a reason it was named the top food and wine destination in the United States.

What you can’t miss: If you love to get your fitness on, you honestly couldn’t pick a better location. With a  WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio located right on property and state-of-the-art equipment, you don’t have to miss your daily sessions. Plus, their RunWESTIN™ program allows you to soak in all of the sights New Orleans has to offer with custom running maps of the area, plus a towel and bottle of water for cool down.

SLS LAS VEGAS, A TRIBUTE PORTFOLIO RESORT 

Why we love it: Anyone who has ever been to Vegas knows that it’s a city that literally never stops, so the list of fun-filled activities? Basically endless. The SLS Las Vegas, A Tribute Porfolio Resort puts you smack-dab in the center of it all with an amazing locale on The Strip and access to all of the gourmet restaurants, theaters and sightseeing you’ll want to take it. Get ready to go, go, go, then head back to your seriously stylish room for some rest and relaxation.

What you can’t miss: The Foundry. Vegas’ most talked about venue, this unique space hosts some of the greatest entertainers in the world – from comedians to bands you can’t wait to see. Plan your honeymoon around their awesome lineup and you’ll be SO happy.

THE WESTIN GOLF RESORT & SPA, PLAYA CONCHAL

Why we love it: If your dream honeymoon description includes the words seclusion and tranquility, then The Westin Golf Resort & Spa, Playa Conchal is right up your alley. We never turn down a chance to spend a romantic evening seaside with a glass of bubbly in hand, and this resort takes it to an entirely new level with all-inclusive benefits.  Plus, with a plethora of water sports, the championship Robert Trent Jones Golf Course and the easy access to Costa Rican National Parks, you can mix in some much-needed adventure.

What you can’t miss: The Royal Beach Club. Newly renovated and for adults only, the Royal Beach Club is all about above and beyond service with everything from premium cocktails to exclusive breakfast + lunch service to access to a private pool and super luxe accommodations. You’ll even get preferential reservations to all of the resort’s fabulous restaurants, spa, tennis and golf.

Contact SPG Weddings (@SPGWeddings) to start planning your dream getaway with your loved one… and don’t forget to ask about how you can earn FREE honeymoon nights when you host your wedding at one of their fab locations.

Since summer is my favorite season, I was delighted to see this Caribbean Bridal portrait inspiration session by Shannon Leahy land on my desk. With its palm frond motif, refreshing green palette, hibiscus bouquet by Bows + Arrows, and stunning Jamaican beach location, it celebrates all the best things summer has to offer. I’m ready to pack my bathing suit and jump right into the enviable gallery of images by Sylvie Gil Photography!

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From Sylvie Gil Photography… This beachy styled shoot is the perfect inspiration for a tropical destination wedding. Shot near Half Moon Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica, we went for a relaxed, dreamy vibe with just a Bride in a flowy white gown and a single reception table set on the sand. The palm tree motif shows up in the gorgeous landscape as well as the lining of our understated mustard invitation suite. A loose, hibiscus-studded bouquet and centerpiece complement the dark wood accents of the paper goods and reception table.

Photography: Sylvie Gil Photography | Event Planning + Design: Shannon Leahy Events | Floral Design: Bows and Arrows | Stationery: Bourne Paper Co. | Bridal Boutique: LOHO Bride | Location: Half Moon Resort | Model: Ariel McFarlane

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