Vera Wang in Toronto

We spent yesterday evening having a look at the fabulous Spring 2011 line at the Vera Wang salon in Toronto. As was seen on our Issue #2 cover seen above we always can expect elegance and great style from Vera. The focus for us was to see what she had for the destination wedding bride this season. For us that is a gown that is easy to travel with lighter fabric for the warmer weather yet still sophisticated and feminine. Of course the line did not disappoint and the destination bride-to-be will be stunning either on a beach or in a more formal affair. To see the fabulous new line if you are in Toronto contact:
Rhonda Diamond
38 Avenue Road, Toronto
416.927.9094
verawangtoronto@gmail.com

View www.verawang.com for more information

Bolongo Bay Debuts "Boarding Pass to Romance" Free Beach Wedding Offer

Bolongo Bay, the Caribbean's most entertaining beach resort, is giving away free beach weddings this October. To cash in on Bolongo Bay's "Boarding Pass to Romance offer, simply bring down friends and family to fill five rooms for five nights or more between October 3 and 9, 2010.

The Boarding Pass to Romance offer includes a free Barefoot on the Beach Wedding Ceremony:

* Wedding coordinator services throughout the planning process and wedding day

* Wedding ceremony with clergy on the beach

* Witnesses

* Bottle of Champagne and two keepsake flutes

* Bolongo Bay Bride and Groom T-shirts

To make the ceremony extra special, Bolongo Bay will upgrade the package and include a decorated arch for the ceremony. Total value of the free wedding is $1,600.

At Bolongo Bay Beach Resort, every wedding is unique and created to fulfill the couple's dreams. Other wedding services can be added on to customize the day for an extra charge. From steel pan drums to photography and videography services, the possibilities are endless. Plus, with no passport needed for US citizens, it is easy to travel to a destination wedding at Bolongo Bay.

Room rates start at $169 for the European Plan and $407 for Bolongo Bay's most refreshing All Inclusive plan featuring premium cocktails, lobster and filet mignon.

Bolongo Bay guarantees a fun time for everyone. From sailing, diving, snorkeling or joining in the "snorkel booze hunt" during the day to dancing at night, there's always something going on. For more reasons to visit, check out the Top 10 List of why Bolongo Bay is the most entertaining Caribbean beach resort.

Can't get away in early October? Couples may still be able to take advantage of Bolongo Bay's "Boarding Pass to Romance" offer as it may be extended to other limited-availability dates.

To book a free beach wedding with the "Boarding Pass to Romance" offer, call Bolongo Bay's Romance Director, Lorena Leonard, at 1-800-524-4746.
For more information, visit www.bolongobay.com

Spectacular New Wedding Experience Featuring Dallas Nuptials and an Exclusive Honeymoon at the Ritz London

The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas has created an unprecedented new wedding offering which allows couples to marry in Dallas and then to experience a one-of-a-kind London honeymoon, complete with a roster of exclusive activities not available to the general public.

The collaboration between The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas and The Ritz London, a Ritz-Carlton Partner Hotel, is a first for the two hotels and provides a combined wedding and honeymoon offered as a complimentary upgrade for brides purchasing The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas’ Ritz-Carlton Royalty wedding package for a minimum of 400 guests with a contracted rooms and premium food and beverage commitment. The Ritz-Carlton Royalty wedding package is priced at $275 per guest and offers the following highlights:

The Ritz-Carlton Royalty Wedding Package, The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas -- Highlights

A Ritz-Carlton, Dallas Luxury Suite for the wedding night, including rose petal turndown

Two Deluxe Rooms for the parents of the bride and groom

Access to The Ritz-Carlton Club Level for the bride and groom and their parents. The Ritz-Carlton Club Level offers complimentary food and beverage presentations, including wine champagne and cordials, throughout the day, allowing wedding guests to enjoy private dining without having to leave the confines of the hotel’s comfortable room, Club and spa floors.

First-year wedding anniversary certificate for a one-night stay in a Deluxe Suite
Gift certificate for a couple’s massage in The Ritz-Carlton Spa

Credit of $500 towards wedding flowers through Dallas’ acclaimed Bella Flora
Four-course reception dinner, including wine pour, custom-designed Ritz-Carlton, Dallas wedding cake and a four-hour premium bar package

All-night “Afterglow” party for guests who aren’t quite ready for the fun to end

Honeymoon at The Ritz London – Highlights

Round-trip flight for two between Dallas and London

Airport transportation in The Ritz London's Rolls Royce Phantom
Four nights luxurious accommodations at The Ritz London

Full English breakfast each morning

A day's sightseeing tour in The Ritz Rolls Royce Phantom, accompanied by a private guide, to include The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, The Tower of London, The Palace of Westminster and Kensington Palace

An individual consultation with John Williams, MBE, the hotel's Executive Chef, and Thomas Sorcinelli, the hotel’s Head Sommelier, to create a unique six course dinner accompanied by fine wines

A personalized guided shopping tour of legendary Bond Street

Champagne Afternoon Tea for two in The Ritz's renowned Palm Court, followed by a visit to a London theatre show of the couple’s choice

A private viewing of Ritz Fine Jewellery's latest collection

Complimentary membership, during stay, of The Ritz Club and Casino

A "Champagne Flight" in a private capsule on The London Eye Ferris wheel

The Ritz-Carlton Royalty wedding package is one of three comprehensive new wedding packages offered by The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas, each providing an innovative take on typical Texas nuptials. Entitled Southern Chic, Texas Traditions and Ritz-Carlton Royalty, the three wedding packages are priced beginning at $125 per person, with differing complimentary honeymoon offers applying to some of these options as well.

Wedding inquiries for The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas may be directed to (214) 922-4718.

Handcrafted Jewels and Gifts from Dogeared

Dogeared, a trendsetting fashion brand that creates handcrafted jewels and gifts in Los Angeles, is launching their latest collections at select August trade
shows. Two new catalogs feature product lines with two distinct points of view: Dogeared NOW and Dogeared FOREVER. Both capture the casual mix of classic, modern, and vintage elements that has made Dogeared a global bestseller and a favorite of celebrities, stylists, and retailers alike.

Basics get their chance to shine in Dogeared FOREVER, home of Karma, Pearls of..., Make a Wish and Reminders; the tried and true groups that are the soul of Dogeared. This line has grown with the addition of Reminder bracelets, Whispers necklaces, and 38 new charms that are hand-cast by local artisans in recycled sterling silver.

Fashion collections are showcased in Dogeared NOW. Mantranecklaces and leather wrap bracelets are a modern take on the word jewelry that helped launch Dogeared 19 years ago. Hand-cast plaques in unexpected metal finishes, hand engraved with words that empower, inspire, and connect with the wearer. Jewel Boxis a vintage-inspired
collection with an heirloom feel... Antiqued chain, rich leather, sophisticated gemstone hues, and the kind of intricate detail and craftsmanship you can only find in handmade jewelry. Both groups are completely new, but also beautiful examples of how Dogeared has revisited their roots and reinterpreted designs that have always resonated with their customers.

As Dogeared expands their collections and catalogs, they continue to decrease their environmental footprint. Catalogs, cards, and packaging are printed on mixed sources, and charms are cast from 100% recycled silver. The company works with suppliers and casters who share this commitment, and all jewelry and gifts are produced in the most environmentally conscious way possible - by hand in their Southern California studios.

Retail prices range from approximately $25 to $225. The collection catalogs are viewable online at www.dogearedwholesale.com

Handmade Embellished Sandals by Starla Sandals

Starla Sandals, a new line of handmade, embellished luxury sandals, has launched their first collection. Designed by Michele Paredes and inspired by the chic elegance of South Florida, the line is designed to fill a niche within the footwear market. Starla creates sandals that are luxurious, comfortable, and affordable.

With an entire bridal line in the design process, featured here are designs that are already popular with brides planning destination weddings, tropical honeymoons, or casual yet chic affairs.

Michele Paredes' life-long passion for jewelry and footwear led her to the creation of Starla Sandals earlier this year. Designed for a fashion conscious woman, Starla Sandal's premier collection embodies both the breezy tropical feel and the effortless style that is so important for summer, beach, and resort wear.

Starla Sandals are handmade with high-quality leather and some are embellished with Austrian, Czech, and Swarovski stones and crystals. Prices range from $65.00 to $120.00, and are available on www.starlasandals.com

Villa Aliseo in Barbados

This magnificent 9 bedroom house in Barbados is located high up the Sandy Lane Estate. Aliseo has beautiful decor, excellent facilities and fabulous service.

The main entrance flows into the formal living area with a large spacious kitchen off to the left and also a formal dining area. This open plan living and dining area has French doors that lead out onto a spacious, partly covered terrace overlooking the pool and manicured gardens – with its comfortable chairs and dining table that is the ideal spot for breakfast or a light lunch. Each of the 9 spacious bedroom suites are air conditioned, have ceiling fans, and each has an ensuite bathroom and walk in wardrobe. All feature flat screen television with satellite TV.

The master bedroom is set apart from all of the rooms and located on the top floor of the house, it features a very large private terrace which overlooks the swimming pool and views of the grounds stretching out to the ocean. The lower floor of Aliseo is the place to entertain! There is a further open plan living room with a bar area and Karaoke and a games table offering pool and table tennis. There is also an air conditioned home theatre and well equipped gym. A small pantry/kitchen completes this area. From the lower level, French doors lead out to a covered terrace area with BBQ and space for alfresco dining and this flows out to the large swimming pool and Jacuzzi. The house is further complemented by a gazebo that commands sweeping views of the entire property and grounds.

When staying at Aliseo staff will include a butler, housekeeper, laundress, chef and poolside attendant. Other staff are available on request. The staff at the house are extremely helpful and are able to make arrangements/reservations for you ensuring your stay at Aliseo is as relaxing and easy as possible. The furnishings at Aliseo contribute to the pleasant ambience of the house. The house is furnished to a very high standard by Robb & Stucky in the USA.

Guests of Aliseo have access to the Sandy Lane Property Owners beach facility at the nearby Sandy Lane beach. This is approximately a 5 minute drive from Aliseo. Our Butler will make all the necessary arrangements for a day at the beach ensuring your Sunloungers are ready and waiting for your use.

El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels and Azul Hotels by Karisma Offer Dream Destination Wedding Packages

New vow renewal and wedding packages, as well as augmented packages, at El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels and Azul Hotels are designed to provide brides-to-be an enchanting, customized destination wedding during which they receive personal attention and are able to tailor their celebrations with special touches that exceed even their wildest dreams. The Free Morning Wedding Package is ideal for couples that desire a morning ceremony when the weather is warm and the sun begins to glisten on the water. Couples can relax on the white powder sand before their big day or take a few days after the wedding to honeymoon in paradise. Regardless, the Free Morning Wedding Package is available complimentary with a seven-night visit
and includes all services and amenities.

Available for only $295 or complimentary with a five-night qualifying stay, the Vow Renewal Celebration Package invites husbands and wives to honor their love with a spiritual sand ceremony on the beach, beachfront dinner for two, sunrise breakfast basket, keepsake photo of their renewal, and romantically decorated suite. This newly unveiled package provides couples the opportunity to celebrate their love with a touching and unforgettable ceremony that is sure to create priceless memories at a minimal cost.

In addition to the personal bridal attendant, guest concierge and groom's room, all wedding packages include an on-site wedding coordinator, online bridal registry and wedding website, Justice of the Peace or non-denominational minister, translation of ceremony, filing of all documents, Mexican or symbolic wedding certificate, beachfront ceremony location; an aisle runner, table with white linen and ceremony chairs; and romantically decorated suite on the wedding night with rose petals, aromatherapy and candles. Dream destination wedding packages available at El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels and Azul Hotels include:

* Free Morning Wedding Package - available complimentary Monday through Wednesday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. with a seven-night stay for bride and groom, and includes brunch reservations with personalized menu cards for the group. Valid at El Dorado Royale, El Dorado Casitas Royale and El Dorado Maroma, which offer seaside wedding chapels; El Dorado Seaside Suites; and Azul Sensatori Hotel, home of the
exclusive Sky Wedding location.

* Free Sweet Wedding Package - available complimentary with a seven-night stay for bride and groom plus 15 additional room nights, and includes dinner reservations with personalized menu cards for the group. Valid at El Dorado Royale, El Dorado Casitas Royale and El Dorado Maroma, which offer seaside wedding chapels; El Dorado Seaside Suites; and Azul Sensatori Hotel, home of the exclusive Sky Wedding location.

* Pearl Wedding Package - available for $950 and includes dinner reservations with personalized menu cards for the group, bride's fresh floral bouquet, groom's matching boutonniere, and framed 5x7" picture of wedding couple. Valid at all El Dorado and Azul properties including El Dorado Royale, El Dorado Casitas Royale and El Dorado Maroma, which offer seaside wedding chapels; El Dorado Seaside Suites; Azul Beach Hotel; and Azul Sensatori Hotel, home of the exclusive Sky Wedding location.

* Silver Wedding Package - available for $2,500 and includes Pearl Wedding Package elements plus in-room mannequin with cover to display wedding dress for three days prior to the wedding, bride's spa manicure and special spa gift, spiritual sand ceremony with keepsake souvenir, heart-shaped petite wedding cake for two, post wedding day brunch reservations for group, and late check-out for the bride and groom. Valid at all El Dorado and Azul properties including El Dorado Royale, El Dorado Casitas Royale and El Dorado Maroma, which offer seaside wedding chapels; El Dorado Seaside Suites; Azul Beach Hotel; and Azul Sensatori Hotel, home of the exclusive Sky Wedding location.

* Gold Wedding Package - available for $3,500 and includes Silver Wedding Package elements plus blood test, Mexican wedding certificate translated to English and delivered after ceremony via Fed Ex, spa hairstyle for bride and haircut for groom, spa gift, logo beach bag, romantic sunset dinner cruise for bride and groom including transfers at Maroma Beach, and professional wedding photographer, 36 color picture package plus negatives and handmade wedding album - wedding photography typically costs thousands of dollars separately, making the Gold Wedding Package a truly unbelievable deal. Valid at all El Dorado and Azul properties including El Dorado Royale, El Dorado Casitas Royale and El Dorado Maroma, which offer seaside wedding chapels; El Dorado Seaside Suites; Azul Beach Hotel; and Azul Sensatori Hotel, home of the exclusive Sky Wedding location.