Sunday, June 30, 2019

Partly Cloudy tomorrow!



With a high of 87F and a low of 64F.

Wedding Balloons – The Trend We Can’t Get Enough Of

Make balloons the hero of your wedding decor for a styled look that is totally airy and fun. We've got all the wedding balloon inspo for you right here!

The post Wedding Balloons – The Trend We Can’t Get Enough Of appeared first on Modern Wedding.



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Romantic Honeymoon Packages


Traveling for your destination wedding or honeymoon is the perfect opportunity to splurge and treat yourselves. Whether that means booking the next level up of accommodations, making a reservation at an award-winning restaurant or pulling the trigger on that extra-special travel experience, we doubt you’ll regret the decision. Thankfully, plenty of properties encourage their romantically-inclined guests to go the extra mile and make the most of their time away. One such brand is Auberge Resorts Collection, who recently introduced their “Love Stories” offers.

Now, at any Auberge Resorts Collection property, you can book a special “Love Stories” package that is specifically catered toward couples and focuses on a unique, local activity. These once-in-a-lifetime opportunities are meant to create amazing memories and are centered on authentic experiences in some of the most beautiful locations around the world. Examples of some Auberge Resorts properties’ new Love Stories offerings include:

  • Napa Valley

    Watch Your Love Grow – Before saying “I do” at Calistoga Ranch, the romantic and secluded canyon retreat in the heart of California wine country, couples can create a living remembrance in the resort’s Sotero vineyard by selecting a vine, placing a personalized, wooden tag engraved with their last name(s) and wedding date on their very own branch. The newlyweds receive a corresponding tag around a bottle of wine from the vineyard – their first vintage – and a map of the vineyard marked with location of their vine, a living testament to their special day. As love endures at Calistoga Ranch, couples are invited to celebrate anniversaries with a vineyard picnic by their special spot.
  • Los Cabos

    A Spiritual Journey – Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, the contemporary and spirited beachfront resort in Los Cabos, Mexico invites couples to experience an ethereal pre-wedding spa ritual inspired by ancient Huichol traditions. In this ceremonial practice, the resort’s resident Huichol shaman incorporates earth, wind, fire and water to bring balance and harmony to each couple, strengthening the link between love and the spiritual world and the connection between each other. At the center of the ritual is the spa reflexology pool, where the couple will manifest their intentions, dispel negative energy using a copalera – a traditional ceramic vessel used for burning coal and resin – and bless their union. The spiritual journey culminates in a moonlit fire, where a Huichol-inspired beaded lasso in the form of a figure “8,” the emblem of infinity, is placed over their shoulders, symbolizing the couple’s commitment. The new spouses may retain the lasso as a keepsake of their union and upon return to the resort for their first anniversary can partake in an energy Huichol cleanse.
  • Kohala Coast

    The Kanani of Mauna Lani – The kanani (beauty) of a Mauna Lani wedding commences with couples receiving a traditional spiritual healing water blessing from the iconic resort’s kapuna (elder). The kapuna begins the ceremony with a traditional Hawaiian oli to invite ancestors to join in and bless the nuptials. The oceanfront ceremony will begin with the bride or groom’s arrival to Manua Lani by wa`a, (canoe), as done by Hawaiian royalty for generations. During the ceremony, the couple will exchange and entwine maile leis to create a spiritual connection and, following the entwining of the leis, will share their spirit and life forces with each other by honi ihu, or touching nose to nose to exchange their spirits and in doing so, share their true aloha.
  • Santorini

    Volcanic Vows – At Grace Santorini couples are invited to exchange vows more than 1,000 feet above sea level, surrounded by endless views of the sparkling Aegean Sea. Couples can explore Santorini’s powerful energy, natural beauty and dramatic landscapes by walking along the black and white sand beaches, gathering volcanic sand and pebbles from the most sacred spots on the island. Later, they are invited to combine the colored sands during a unity ceremony to express the coming together of two individuals.
  • Utah

    The Adventure of a Lifetime – Couples with a passion for the outdoors will enjoy The Lodge at Blue Sky’s new “Wedding Party Mountain Adventure,” designed to bring their wedding parties together for a day of authentic ranch experiences. The day of outdoor excursions takes the group throughout the 3,500 rolling acres surrounded by panoramic views, mountain streams and dramatic peaks, and includes guided hikes, sporting clays, yoga silks, whiskey tasting and foraging. The day ends with a dinner using foraged ingredients and connecting over new memories made. 
  • Rhode Island

    The Sound of Your Love – The Vanderbilt, a historic mansion in the classic coastal town of Newport, is an idyllic backdrop to the sounds of music, poetry and the arts. Couples exchanging vows at the quintessential New England property will be able to collaborate with a local musician to put their unique love story to a song. On the magical evening of their wedding, the tailor-made song will be played surrounding all with the lyrical sounds of love.
  • Aspen

    The Nature of Love – Couples are invited to sow the seeds of their love by planting an Aspen tree at Hotel Jerome, a historic landmark resort nestled in the Colorado Rockies. These trees, which grow in colonies that originate from a single seedling and can eventually cover acres of land, represent the union of two individuals and lend great significance to the special day.

One-of-a-kind “Love Stories” are available at all Auberge Resorts, so to learn more or book an experience, visit aubergeresorts.com. Please keep in mind that all offers are based on availability and terms and conditions apply.

Photos courtesy of (in terms of appearance): Calistoga Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection (1st-4th); Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection (5th); Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection (6th-9th); Grace Hotel Santorini, Auberge Resorts Collection (10th-12th); The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection (13th-15th); The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection (16th & 17th) & Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection (18th).

Saturday, June 29, 2019

Mostly Sunny tomorrow!



With a high of 94F and a low of 69F.

MW Quiz: Let’s Find Out What Type Of Bridesmaid You Really Are

Being the best bridesmaid you can possibly be is all about knowing your strengths and weaknesses when it comes to the big day. Take this quiz to find out what […]

The post MW Quiz: Let’s Find Out What Type Of Bridesmaid You Really Are appeared first on Modern Wedding.



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Hotel Review: The Dream Nashville, Printers Alley


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The Best Gear for a Bird-Watching Trip


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Gorgeous Bohemian Sea Wedding in Tenerife Spain

Have you ever considered getting married in Tenerife, Spain? Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands in the Atlantic ocean.  It is part of Spain but is really closer to Africa.  With that geographical location, can you imagine the contrasts?!    Tenerife offers many landscapes from magical beaches of black sand and deep blue …

The post Gorgeous Bohemian Sea Wedding in Tenerife Spain appeared first on Destination Wedding Details.

Friday, June 28, 2019

Sunny tomorrow!



With a high of 88F and a low of 62F.

People Are Sharing Their Wedding Fail Stories And WOW!

Sometimes on the big day, despite the meticulous planning, things just go wrong. Check out some of our favourite wedding fails below.

The post People Are Sharing Their Wedding Fail Stories And WOW! appeared first on Modern Wedding.



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Hacking Your Way to the Best Hotel Rate


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Five Places to Visit in Houston


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"The Notebook" Romance Package

Taking inspiration from Hollywood love stories for your own destination wedding or honeymoon adventure is a smart and fun idea! In fact, I was inspired by HBO’s TV series “Game of Thrones” for my own destination elopement and honeymoon. (See DID’s upcoming Fall/Winter 2019 issue for my own Scotland, Ireland and Northern Ireland wedding and honeymoon adventure!) If something a little closer to home and more traditional is what you’re after, we're sharing a package that’s inspired by the well-known Hollywood film – “The Notebook.”

Charleston, South Carolina’s HarbourView Inn was recently inspired by the movie’s 15th anniversary to create a romance package inspired by the film. Whether traveling to Charleston for your destination wedding or honeymoon, booking this sweet package is a fun idea! The movie was filmed in Charleston and the package provides the opportunity to travel to many of the filming locations. Here’s what’s included with the “Allie & Noah’s Timeless Romance Experience” package:

  • Where Allie licks ice cream off Noah's face – visit to Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream with $25 gift card
  • When Allie and Noah stroll down King Street to The American Theatre – private carriage ride for two around the Historic District
  • Where Noah asks Allie to dance in the street and they lay in the middle of the road – stop at The American Theatre where guests can request to have a personalized romantic saying displayed on the marquee*
  • Home to Allie's family summer house where Noah ponders the end of their fling – two tickets and private transportation to Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens
  • When Noah rows Allie in a canoe through the swamp – general admission for two to Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, complete with house tour and Audubon Swamp Garden tour
  • Allie wakes up to flowers on her pillow – rose petal turndown with a bottle of sparkling wine, as well as one dozen roses in-room upon arrival
  • Where Allie is dining with her new fiancé when Noah walks by – $100 gift card for dinner at High Cotton

*Note the American Theater portions have been suspended temporarily while it’s under renovation.

The package is priced at $2,000 per couple and would be a sweet and unique idea for a proposal, destination wedding or honeymoon visit to Charleston! You and your sweetheart could relive the movie scene-by-scene in the actual filming locations. For more information about the package and the HarbourView Inn, visit harbourviewcharleston.com.

The Esther Luxe Bridesmaids Collection From Esther & Co Is Here!

Romantic and stylish, the new Esther Luxe bridesmaid collection from Esther & Co is like something out of a fairtytale.

The post The Esther Luxe Bridesmaids Collection From Esther & Co Is Here! appeared first on Modern Wedding.



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Thursday, June 27, 2019

Mostly Sunny tomorrow!



With a high of 82F and a low of 60F.

Gorgeous Bohemian Sea Wedding in Tenerife Spain

Have you ever considered getting married in Tenerife, Spain? Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands in the Atlantic ocean.  It is part of Spain but is really closer to Africa.  With that geographical location, can you imagine the contrasts?!    Tenerife offers many landscapes from magical beaches of black sand and deep blue …

The post Gorgeous Bohemian Sea Wedding in Tenerife Spain appeared first on Destination Wedding Details.



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Heaven Must Be Missing An Angel – These Gowns Are Seriously Dreamy

Fall in love with these romantically dreamy wedding gowns that look like they've floated down to earth straight from heaven.

The post Heaven Must Be Missing An Angel – These Gowns Are Seriously Dreamy appeared first on Modern Wedding.



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36 Hours in Camden and Rockport, Maine (and Environs)


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Top 5 Tips for Conquering Destination Wedding RSVP Troubles

For many engaged couples, one of the biggest stresses of planning a wedding is solidifying the RSVP list. The process of getting people to complete and get RSVP’s back to you can be an absolute nightmare; people are busy, they take forever to respond, and then there are always the last-minute yes’s because their schedules …

The post Top 5 Tips for Conquering Destination Wedding RSVP Troubles appeared first on Destination Wedding Details.

Wednesday, June 26, 2019

Mostly Sunny tomorrow!



With a high of 80F and a low of 59F.

How To Create The Ultimate Bridesmaids Survival Kit

What keeps bridesmaids so calm on wedding day? Having a survival kit! We've listed everything you'll need to create the ultimate bridesmaids survival kit.

The post How To Create The Ultimate Bridesmaids Survival Kit appeared first on Modern Wedding.



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A Different Look at Historic Homes of the South


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Enslaved People Lived Here. These Museums Want You to Know.


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Where to Celebrate the 4th, if You Love Fireworks but Hate Crowds


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Luxe Las Vegas Destination Wedding at the Bellagio

Las Vegas may be the wedding capital of the world but I bet that you’ve never seen one quite like this!  Katie & Tom’s Las Vegas destination wedding defied all the cliches. The couple had their outdoor ceremony & reception at none other than the beautiful Bellagio Hotel.  And as you’re about to see in …

The post Luxe Las Vegas Destination Wedding at the Bellagio appeared first on Destination Wedding Details.

Tuesday, June 25, 2019

Mostly Sunny tomorrow!



With a high of 93F and a low of 62F.

Relationship Lessons We Learnt From Sex And The City

After watching so many fabulous episodes of Sex and the City, these are the relationship lessons we have learnt Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte and Samantha!

The post Relationship Lessons We Learnt From Sex And The City appeared first on Modern Wedding.



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Luxe Las Vegas Destination Wedding at the Bellagio

Las Vegas may be the wedding capital of the world but I bet that you’ve never seen one quite like this!  Katie & Tom’s Las Vegas destination wedding defied all the cliches. The couple had their outdoor ceremony & reception at none other than the beautiful Bellagio Hotel.  And as you’re about to see in …

The post Luxe Las Vegas Destination Wedding at the Bellagio appeared first on Destination Wedding Details.



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Nantucket for Cheapskates


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Create A Custom Wedding Gown

Discover how to customize your wedding gown to suit your style, without breaking the bank! It fits like a glove, you feel like a princess and you might have even shed a few happy tears over how picture-perfect your new wedding gown is. You have found your perfect gown and said “yes” to the dress. Now all there is left to do is make it uniquely yours! While many brides will opt to customize their gowns by adding expensive accessories such as personalized trains or unconventional fabric, every addition comes with a cost and it is often a lofty price tag.

The team at Anomalie knows how important it is to feel like yourself on your big day and that’s why they have come together to share six ways to change your wedding day look without changing the dress or breaking the bank. Want to know more about creating a custom look from scratch with Anomalie? Discover our article on their "Custom Wedding Dresses."

6 Ways to Personalize Your Wedding Dress

1. The Overskirt

An effortless addition intended to be taken off after the ceremony, an overskirt adds an element of drama to your look. After you’ve said your “I do’s,” you can remove the overskirt and transform your look into a shorter, freer gown that allows you to dance and move about freely.

2. Capes

Regal, elegant and perfectly practical, bridal capes not only provide a little more modesty, but add warmth and elegance to any gown. Not only that, Anomalie stylists can work alongside you to customize your bridal cape to fit your gown’s unique textile or beading.

3. Detachable and Watteau Trains

Maybe you found the dress of your dreams, but it is lacking a train. There is no need for an expensive alteration. Rather, with a detachable or Watteau train, you can subtly attach it to the top of your neckline on the back of the dress to make the dress ethereal and dreamy!

4. Lace Topper

Channeling all the vintage vibes, Anomalie offers dainty, detailed lace that can be elegantly overlayed on top of your gown for an organically retro feel!

5. Detachable Straps and Sleeves

If your gown is absolutely perfect, but you’re still wanting to add an element of modesty and mystery for the wedding ceremony, detachable straps or sleeves are a fantastic choice! The stylists at Anomalie will collaborate with you to personalize the color, beading, length and fabric of your sleeves so that you can stay covered during the wedding and still raise the roof during the afterparty.

6. Veils

The newest addition to the Anomalie line includes 30-plus semi-custom veil styles that will add elegance and flair to any figure. Whether you are going for a delicate and dainty look or are on the hunt for a draping and captivating veil, Anomalie has a fabulous selection of hand-made, semi-custom veils that are modestly priced and modernly styled.

Note: This blog post was first published on February 11, 2019.

Airbnb Enters the ‘Luxe’ Market


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Monday, June 24, 2019

Top 5 Tips for Conquering Destination Wedding RSVP Troubles

For many engaged couples, one of the biggest stresses of planning a wedding is solidifying the RSVP list. The process of getting people to complete and get RSVP’s back to you can be an absolute nightmare; people are busy, they take forever to respond, and then there are always the last-minute yes’s because their schedules …

The post Top 5 Tips for Conquering Destination Wedding RSVP Troubles appeared first on Destination Wedding Details.



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Mostly Sunny tomorrow!



With a high of 91F and a low of 69F.

Luxury Wedding Invitations Fit For A Queen

Your wedding invitations are going to set the mood of your wedding day so you want to get it right! Be inspired by these luxury wedding invitations.

The post Luxury Wedding Invitations Fit For A Queen appeared first on Modern Wedding.



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A Year in Paris That Transformed Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis


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Sunday, June 23, 2019

Mostly Sunny tomorrow!



With a high of 89F and a low of 68F.

Real Wedding Photos That Will Give You All The Feels

The real weddings we feature on Modern Wedding are a constant source of magical wedding inspiration. Take a look at these real wedding photos!

The post Real Wedding Photos That Will Give You All The Feels appeared first on Modern Wedding.



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A Beautiful Maui Beach Wedding

McKenna and Greg have attended hometown weddings where they didn’t even get a chance to talk with the bride and groom, since they were so busy. So, they decided to make quality time with their friends and family a top priority for their own wedding. “We wanted somewhere warm and tropical, as we both love the beach, but the primary reason we chose destination was because we wanted more than just one evening with all of our guests.” The couple looked up and down the California coast for a wedding venue, but kept coming back to one place – Maui.

“When we got engaged, we explored venues in Northern and Southern California, and while those venues and locations were beautiful, we realized that we didn’t have a strong connection with any of them like we did with Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort,” recalls McKenna. “The property and Maui itself had such significance to us, and we wanted all of our loved ones to experience the magic with us.” The couple first fell in love with the Andaz Maui while on their baby-moon. “We truly fell in love with Maui and the resort: the food was outstanding, we loved the cascading pools and the laid back elegance of it.”

Greg and McKenna’s one reservation about hosting a destination wedding in Maui was that it would be difficult for some of their guests to attend. “Our mentality was, ‘We’re going to invite everybody, but we fully understand if people can’t make it. Absolutely no pressure for guests to come if it’s too much,’” says the bride. “We had a few key family members who were not able to make it for health reasons, so that was difficult, but aside from that, we were actually very surprised by how many of our guests were able to make it; we were truly honored. We knew it was expensive for everyone, and not an easy trek for a lot of our guests, so we were so touched that so many people came! Our hearts were very full.”

Once the destination and venue were decided, wedding planning got into full swing. The bride has a background in event planning, so her experience, combined with coordinator Sarah Snyder at Andaz Maui, meant the process went smoothly. “With my background, I know that planning an event always has hiccups and nothing is 100% perfect, and I was ok with that,” says the McKenna. “I kept thinking, ‘What could really go that wrong? All of our favorite people are together in the most beautiful place, celebrating with us,’ and having that mindset really took the pressure off.”

Having planned events at home, we asked the bride if planning a wedding from afar was more difficult. “I didn’t find it to be problematic to coordinate from afar. This day and age, with Internet and email, distance isn’t really an issue. I actually found it to be very beneficial to communicate via email instead of phone because I was able to refer back to emails when I forgot specific details discussed. I would recommend recapping every phone call with a follow up email outlining what was discussed on the call and any decisions made, as well as any outstanding or action items that need addressing. That way, everyone is on the same page.”

One minor speed bump was that the couple did experience a bit of sticker shock after choosing to host their destination wedding in Maui. “Everything is more expensive in Hawaii: flowers, rentals, food, drinks, so be prepared for that,” says McKenna. “Sarah Snyder at Andaz Maui was so great at helping us figure out ways to cut costs, yet still maintain the look we were going for. It was definitely more expensive in regards to the per-person cost, but it was a smaller group than we would have had [at home], so it came out to about the same. We did have a bit of sticker shock, but in the end, we kept reminding ourselves that we only get married once, and the memories made would last a lifetime.”

We asked this savvy and successful destination wedding bride what her final words of advice would be for other couples currently planning their own dream wedding away: “It sounds cliché, but my advice would be not obsessing over every little detail. No one will notice the little hiccups that you may be worried about. At the end of the day, you’re on vacation with the love of your life and all of your closest friends and family; it’s something to be thoroughly enjoyed, not stressed over!”

Vendors: Photographer: MeewMeew Studios, Ceremony/Reception Site & Cake: Andaz Maui, Florist: Bella Bloom, Stationery: Minted, Calligraphy: Bloom Ink Paper Company, Makeup: Maui Makeup Artistry, Hair: Amanda Fitch Hair, Gown Designer: Olvi’s, Groom’s Clothing Designer: Tommy Bahama, Groom’s Shoes: Sperry, Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo, DJ: Maui Tunes Entertainment and Production, Minister: Pia Aluli, Favors: Honolulu Cookie Company & Musicians: Derick Sebastian and David Wolf Weddings

Saturday, June 22, 2019

Mostly Sunny tomorrow!



With a high of 85F and a low of 66F.

Take Our Quiz To Find Out Who Your Celebrity Groom Will Be

Celebrity crushes. We've all had them! Take this Modern Wedding quiz to find out who which celebrity groom will be waiting for you at the altar...

The post Take Our Quiz To Find Out Who Your Celebrity Groom Will Be appeared first on Modern Wedding.



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10 New Twists on Wedding Traditions


Over the years, many wedding traditions have become classics for couples to participate in for their special day. Lately, though, there are more and more ways to put a new spin on some of these wedding customs. We’ve rounded up some ways to freshen up these traditions with 10 new twists on old favorites!

1. Storefront Shopping → At-Home Try-On

Wedding planning can be a busy enough time already – skip the storefront shopping and go for the at-home try-on trend! Have your guy save time by using an option like Jordan Jack to try on wedding bands at home.

2. Buying a Wedding Planner Book → Monthly Wedding Subscription Box

As soon as you get engaged, the wedding planning process officially begins! Wedding planning books can help to keep you on track, but the process can still feel overwhelming. Try a monthly wedding subscription box instead. Companies like Maeven Box will send you monthly boxes filled with items to inspire and help you in the months leading up to your big day.

3. Dessert Table → Renting a Dessert Cart

Dessert tables are the ultimate way to satisfy your sweet tooth at a wedding, but they just got a major upgrade. Renting dessert carts like The Wild Posy offer a fun way for you and your guests to grab a sweet treat and an even sweeter Instagram picture!

4. Wedding Day Gift from the Groom → Special Wedding Day Perfume

For years, grooms have given their brides a gift for her to open while getting ready with her bridesmaids. Instead of a piece of jewelry, surprise your bride with a special wedding day perfume. With options like Coulombe Perfume, you can give your fiancée a scent she’ll always remember as the one she wore on her wedding day!

5. Letter to the Groom → Custom Embroidered Handkerchief

To start the wedding day on a sweet note, it’s become a tradition to write a letter to your soon-to-be husband. Create something memorable and personal by gifting a custom embroidered handkerchief instead! With The Handkerchief Shop, you can give your groom a special token he can keep with him throughout the wedding day and for years to come.

6. Preserving Your Wedding Dress → Selling Your Dress to Future Brides

Getting your wedding dress is one of the most fun parts of the wedding process and it’s a shame you’ll only ever wear it once! Don’t let your dress collect dust in a box in your closet – sell your dress to future brides instead! Stillwhite helps you pass on your wedding dress so that another bride will get some use out of your gorgeous gown!

7. Hiring a Traditional Florist → Renting Your Wedding Flowers Online

Picking out the flowers for your wedding can be one of the most fun (and pretty!) parts of the wedding planning process, but it can also be one of the priciest. Instead of hiring a traditional florist, try renting your wedding flowers online! With options like Something Borrowed Blooms, you can still get the peonies and ranunculus of your dreams – without breaking the bank!

8. Basic Wedding Bar → Bar on Wheels

Traditional wedding bars are a timeless, classic way to treat your guests to a specialty cocktail on your special day. But if you're looking to wow your guests, give them an experience to remember with a bar on wheels. Mobile bars like Hoddebros provide a memorable spot for guests to grab a drink, snap a pic and mingle with other guests!

9. Registering for a Blender → Registering for Wine

You’ve probably already thought about all of the kitchen necessities to add to your wedding registry, but don’t forget about the most important one – wine! Have your guests send you everything you’re going to need to make the perfect bar cart through Thirsty Nest!

10. Buying a Tux → Renting a Tux

While many grooms have bought their wedding tuxes through the years, renting has become a popular and easy alternative! Rental tuxes give your groom and groomsmen the style they need without the hassle of heading to a storefront. Try an option like Generation Tux to meet all of your groom’s wedding day needs!

Photos courtesy of (in order of appearance): Rebecca Theresa Photography (1st & 4th), Maeven BoxJenny Quicksall PhotographyThe Handkerchief ShopOglia-LoroCatherine Guidry PhotographyJames Lester PhotographySanaz PhotographyBethany Small Photography.

Friday, June 21, 2019

Thunderstorms tomorrow!



With a high of 79F and a low of 64F.

Five Places to Visit in Barcelona


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Savoring Lisbon’s Local Tastes on a Budget


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The Catskills Are Back. Again. And Again.


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5 Cali Hot Spots for Your Wedding

Romance is Calling

From rolling vineyard landscapes to the sandy beaches of the Pacific, California offers gorgeous destination wedding backdrops in spades. Here are five Preferred Hotels & Resorts that provide the perfect place to say "I do" in the Golden State.

Carneros Resort & Spa – Napa

Surrounded by rolling vineyards, Carneros Resort and Spa is luxury and relaxation in a modern, farm-inspired setting. Offering high-end, cottage-style accommodations paired with fine dining and sumptuous varietals, this property is as special as it is romantic.

Alfresco showers, private gardens, poolside panoramic views of the nearby vineyards, and exclusive dining selections offer guests an unparalleled experience in the heart of Napa.

Enjoy an intimate ceremony or an event of up to 210 people with an unforgettable backdrop either indoors or out. The perfect balance of rustic charm and modern luxury, weddings at Carneros Resort and Spa are sophisticated, understated and tailored to your taste and personality.

The Huntington Hotel – San Francisco

San Francisco exudes romance and The Huntington Hotel encapsulates the history and panache of famed Nob Hill. Once a luxury apartment building in 1924, this historic landmark is now a modern icon offering couples a stylish retreat. With an unparalleled location, The Huntington Hotel overlooks Grace Cathedral, Huntington Park and the city skyline. 

The elegant, oversized guest rooms and three-story penthouse, on-site luxury spa and relaxation pool provide couples and guests respite from wedding planning and sightseeing. Indulge in a meal at the iconic Big 4 Restaurant and Lounge (named after the big railroad tycoons who developed the Southwest) where live music and delectable dinner options unite.

Hotel Californian – Santa Barbara

Sandwiched between the sandy beaches and quaint downtown of Santa Barbara is Hotel Californian. This historic (yet recently renovated) property boast 123 guest rooms each with ocean, garden or mountain views. Built in 1925, the property has been reimagined by celebrity designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard with a cool, Moroccan-inspired vibe. The sophisticated color palette and vibrant patterns found throughout the property’s three buildings lend themselves to gorgeous wedding celebrations.

Choose from beautifully appointed ball-rooms (for up to 285 guests), a rooftop terrace overlooking the Pacific or other outdoor venue spaces for your destination wedding.

Shutters on the Beach – Santa Monica

If you envision a lively beach wedding with the Santa Monica Pier in the distance, a secluded location and five-star service for your guests, Shutters on the Beach might be your perfect home-away-from-home for your wedding.

Situated in the heart of Santa Monica you’ll find a quintessential Southern California hotel that’s iconic for its nod to Cape Cod’s architecture. Enjoy all the area has to offer along with the welcoming residence-style Shutters on the Beach is so well known for. Gather around oversized fireplaces in the lobby or back in your upgraded room, surrounded by your wrap-around deck as the sunsets over the Pacific.

Hotel Casa Del Mar – Santa Monica

One of only two hotels on the sand in Los Angeles, Hotel Casa Del Mar is a marriage between Renaissance splendor and modern luxury. The Mediterranean-inspired historic property offers panoramic ocean views, 129 indulgently appointed guest rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, on-site spa and Palm Terrace Pool – all overlooking the sand and sea. Imagine getting wedding-day ready in one of their two-story penthouse suites, offering the ultimate in seaside luxury.

Saying “I do” on property is a dream come true with their sweeping staircase for the ultimate of entrances, seriously glamorous ballroom or outdoor terrace, allowing you and your guests to enjoy dinner under the stars after watching the sun slip below the horizon.

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Thursday, June 20, 2019

Thunderstorms tomorrow!



With a high of 81F and a low of 65F.

9 American Tourists Have Died in the Dominican Republic


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Uber Romantic Peony Bouquets

Whether you're a boho bride or you're after sophisticated blooms, we've rounded up these romantic peony bouquets to give you some floral inspiration.

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36 Hours of New York City Pride


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How to Have a Healthy Argument

Imagine your significant other made a comment about you while you were out with friends that bothered you. Later, when you bring it up, you think your memory of the event is reliable. But scientific study shows that your memory is very faulty, especially when emotions are involved. If the issue at stake happened months or even years ago, your memory is hopelessly influenced by your feelings about the event and the people involved. You’re even influenced by where you were and what was happening every time you thought about that event again since it happened. Here are five ways to have a healthy argument in an effort to improve overall relationship health.

How to Have a Healthy Argument:

  1. Don’t waste your time arguing over who said or did exactly what.
    Instead, try to drill down to the underlying issue. It could be that the comment your partner made bothered you because you don’t think he/she respects your work or intelligence. That’s what you need to discuss, not the words they used.

  2. It’s important that you give the other person the benefit of the doubt.
    Assume their intentions were not malevolent and ask questions about why they made the choice they did. Avoid asking questions that implicitly cast judgment on the other person’s character, like “What kind of person leaves the back door open?” or “How could you possibly think that’s okay?”

  3. Use open-ended questions that invite a response.
    Engage them with your questions and encourage them to be honest by saying things like, “What makes you feel that way?” It’s okay to criticize their ideas, but not okay to criticize who they are as people.

  4. Always remember that humans are emotional animals.
    Our emotions can really change the way we interpret the world around us. We also tend to believe we’re objective, when every one of us is deeply influenced by our own biases and perceptions and fears. What you imagine was a condescending tone may have sounded quite different to someone else. I’m not saying that you are less objective than your partner, but that both of you are biased.

  5. You can and should choose your battles.
    Decide who will get the biggest emotional impact from the decision. That person has the most at stake and perhaps they can win this time so that you can win the next time. If you’re both working toward the same shared goal, it may be easier to focus the argument on reaching a mutually beneficial arrangement without blowing up the relationship by calling each other names.

Keep in mind, there will not always be a compromise in an argument. If there is a true disagreement on some issues like whether to buy or rent a home, to live in the city or suburbs, to have a pet or not, it’s not really possible to find a middle ground. Instead, you’ll have to learn to collaborate. 

Try to end the argument by reinstating your shared goal. Both of you ultimately want the same thing – a happy marriage. Odds are that improving your communication skills is one of the best ways to achieve that goal and enjoy your relationship.

For more advice from Celeste Headlee or to learn more about her, visit celesteheadlee.com.

Image Photo Shoot Credits: Produced by: Be Inspired Public Relations, Photography: Kurt Boomer, Deisgn & Styling: Sterling Social, Food Stylist/Chef: Be Well by Kelly, Hair & Makeup Artist: 10.11 Makeup, Pajamas: Marigot Collection, Lingerie/Robe: Girl with a Serious Dream, Paper & Calligraphy: Laura Hooper, Picnic and Pink Dresses: Donna Morgan, Sparkling Wine: OneHope Wine

Wednesday, June 19, 2019

Scattered Thunderstorms tomorrow!



With a high of 82F and a low of 64F.

Food And Drink Trucks For Your Wedding Day

The options for catering trucks are endless so we've curated a list of all the best food and drink truck ideas for your wedding day.

The post Food And Drink Trucks For Your Wedding Day appeared first on Modern Wedding.



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A Tour of Blackberry Mountain


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In Thailand, You Can Ride an Elephant. But Should You?


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In Tennessee, Blackberry Farm Takes Over a Mountain


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Camp Getaways for the Whole Family


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Sedona Wellness Experiences

The wellness travel trend is likely here to stay and the summer season is a great time to take advantage. After all, summer is the time to refresh and reboot! Sedona is known worldwide as a unique spiritual destination and one luxury resort is making the most of its red rock setting. L’Auberge de Sedona, A Destination Hotel is celebrating 35 years along the banks of Oak Creek in Sedona, Arizona with myriad special offerings. Among these offerings are packages and experiences catered to wellness – perfect for destination wedding and honeymoon couples!

New for 2019, L’Auberge de Sedona created its Vortex Treehouse – designed to be a spiritual sanctuary complemented by expansive views of the surrounding red rocks. Vortex Treehouse wellness experiences are $160 for 60 minutes and $220 for 90 minutes for one or two people to enjoy in the intimate setting.

The property is also currently offering a Cooler by Nature package for the summer months. Here are the details: “Revel in a variety of summertime activities with the Cooler by Nature package with one-of-a-kind dining, spa treatments and serene nature views from the private deck. Indulge the senses and refresh the mind and body during a personally designed summer escape including a two-night stay, up to 20 percent off cottages and suites when you stay Creekside, and $40 credit at ETCH Kitchen + Bar. The starting rate for this package is $359+ per night. Book now for stays through Sept. 30.”

Here are some additional examples of wellness offerings at L’Auberge de Sedona:

  • Signature Vortex Treehouse Session: L’Auberge de Sedona has created four rituals in honor of Sedona’s four most highly energized vortex sites: Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon. Each session includes direction on becoming more present, guided meditation specific to the individual’s purpose, sound bath to enhance the intention and a closing with intention setting.
  • Customized Yoga: Yogis are taken on a distinctive journey incorporating the mind, body and energetic practice. The session can be customized to focus on the physical, emotional and spiritual state based on the request of the participant.
  • Vinyasa Vortex: Guests can stretch and strengthen with this invigorating breath and movement-focused session. This session guides participants through reconnecting to the body, mind, and breath and releasing into a bliss-filled relaxation.
  • Sound Healing: Sound healing uses the energy of sound to promote wellness through various techniques. This session begins with a brief discussion of primordial sound healing and moves into a few simple practices of toning and mantra. Guests achieve a deep relaxation and chakra balance through the sounds of seven native flats tuned to the seven main energy centers of the body.
  • Customized Meditation: Visitors can enhance their current practices and/or learn new methods to promote personal relaxation and wellbeing. Methods taught include guiding imagery, pranayama (a breath control technique) and sound healing.
  • Mindful Moon Meditation: A mystical moonlit series centered around the new moon each month. A guided journey of healing sessions, Mindful Moon Meditation sessions include an earthing and grounding ritual, breathing and meditation, sound healing, and a write and reflect session.
  • Nature Focused Spa Experiences: L’Auberge de Sedona’s award-winning luxury spa, L’Apothecary Spa, also offers a number of nature-focused wellness experiences including Forest Bathing, Star Bathing and the seasonal Feet in the Creek.

Whether you live in Arizona or elsewhere, Sedona makes for a lovely summertime treat. No matter where you choose to trave for your summer vacay, be sure to go the extra mile and treat yourself to a wellness activity or experience! Visit lauberge.com for more information or to book one of these special wellness packages or experiences.