A Blackberry Farm Honeymoon

In our quest to find the ultimate Smoky Mountain honeymoon destination, my husband and I traveled along the rural Millers Cove road in Walland, Tennessee. After following a white rail fence lined with evergreens, a sign marked the spot—Blackberry Farm.  Here, in the shadows of one of the world’s most exceptional landscapes, we entered our hideaway for romance and adventure in a luxurious country estate. A place so extraordinary that I am certain the proprietor, Sam Beall and team, conspired with nature to awaken the senses.

Celebrating 35 years of excellence, Blackberry Farm has a reputation as one of the most highly acclaimed small luxury hotels in the world complete with a bounty of accolades. The resort, a Relais & Châteaux property, was awarded the prestigious #1 Resort in North America by Travel + Leisure magazine in 2011, listed on Travel + Leisure’s 500 World’s Best Hotels 2012 as one of the Top 25 hotels in the world,  and was also tagged as a Platinum Member in Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List in January 2012. For honeymoon couples, a call to the concierge translates leaving the entanglements and stress of wedding planning behind and entrusting your first days as newlyweds to the “memory makers” of Blackberry Farm.

The dream weavers will listen for your personal preferences to customized days and nights filled with everything from paths of rose petals, candlelight and champagne to a private picnic followed by exhilarating outdoor adventures. Blackberry Farm operates on two rate options, the Traditional Rates provide a full American Plan which offers nightly accommodations as well as dinner on day of arrival through lunch on day of departure, all snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages. Guests also have the option of choosing the Build Your Own Experience, which starts with the room's base price and guests then add dining options, activities and events to create a customized and flexible stay. Destination weddings on the 9,200-acre estate are also popular.

Couples can choose from 62 accommodation options, including estate rooms in the main house with amazing mountain vistas. Since privacy was our goal, we selected one of the elegant Holly Glade Cottages. A mason jar bursting with flowers, homemade pimento  cheese, along with a note, welcomed our arrival while sounds from the Bose Music system pierced our space with the chords of the Southern Appalachian region—setting the mood for romance. Our spacious “Hummingbird Cottage Suite” became a romantic refuge where the four poster king feather bed, with luxurious linens, was illuminated nightly by flames from the wood-burning fireplace. A prime amenity was the whirlpool bath and separate shower and oh…those heated tile floors were amazing.

There is simply not a bad season to visit Blackberry Farm. We arrived in late autumn after the kaleidoscope of fall foliage had passed and leaves had parted to reveal beauty along the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. The wall of curtains in our cottage opened to reveal the woods—allowing us the pleasure of feeling more like participants in nature’s showplace of surprises instead of intruders. The cottage porch is perfect for rocking away the hours while making plans for the future.

Allow Blackberry Farm’s guides to assemble a series of activities for your comfort level on property and beyond its borders. Enjoy hiking Appalachian trails, kayaking mountain lakes, canoe excursion and cycling through country lanes. You must also try the world-class sporting clay course and tennis courts. One of the most romantic “must-do” activities is a trip in a hand-crafted carriage. Listen as the driver delivers the stories of days past in the Smoky Mountains while making memories for a lifetime. Our favorite equine excursion was the Farmstead Ride atop a pair of Rocky Mountain horses, a breed known for their smooth gait. After dark, grab a blanket and spend some time around the  bon fire with s’mores and hot cocoa.

Located at the bend of Hesse Creek, the Yallarhammer is an open-air pavilion where we spent hours by the warmth from the huge stone fireplace.  For a traditional Smoky Mountains experience, schedule a two-hour private instructed fly fishing excursion along the creek. We stopped by the Grey Duck to learn the craft of tying flies for trout fishing by the warmth of the wood burning stove. You will find high energy activities are perfect on some days and exploring Blackberry Farm when you want tranquility is another option. On two occasions, we traveled over the wooden bridge spanning Hess Creek to the meadow and wandered to the quaint chapel for privacy.

Blackberry Farm offers guests complimentary access to their fleet of Lexus vehicles. We arose before day break one morning, and in less than 30 minutes, arrived at Cade’s Cove, an 11-mile, one-way loop in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  The cove was blanketed with a heavy frost that resembled snow. Here, wildlife paid little attention to us as we stopped to snap close-up photos of a doe grazing. Visitors can also explore 18th and 19th century structures that were once part of this thriving mountain community.

After a day of hiking, reserve a couple’s massage at the Farmhouse Spa located in the restored 1800’s farmhouse—originally the home of Melina Webb and her eight children. Blending historic ambiance with the modern spa amenities, the spa features Aveda products for a perfect rejuvenation of body and spirit. Many of the spa’s signature treatments focus on local themes and ingredients gathered from Blackberry Farm’s gardens.

Blackberry Farm is a real working farm where “farm to table” is not just a phrase, but a way of life. Spend at least one day exploring the actual farm area where skilled artisans welcome guests. We got close to the earth with the farm’s Master Gardener, John Coykendall, as he shared the heritage, history and craft of sowing, harvesting and seed saving while pointing out centuries-old heirloom seeds that he has collected from around the world. Schedule an appointment to visit The Larder where jams & jellies are preserved, and tour the cheese cave.

We were also fortunate to meet Jim Sanford who told us the story of Blackberry Farm. Jim is the trainer for the Lagotto Romagnolo dogs at Blackberry Farm, and he introduced us to Tom, Blackberry Farm’s first Romagnolo, while he rested by the fireplace near the concierge’s desk. Jim traveled to Italy in 2007, retrieving this rare breed for the purpose of digging truffles, an aromatic subterranean fungus that is the “black diamond” of the epicurean world. Tom is considered the best truffle dog in the U. S., but to us, he was just an adorable canine with a new family of nine puppies. Jim took us to the kennel where he scooped up a handful of adorable puppies.

Led by Executive Chef (Grand Chef Relais & Chateaux) Joseph Lenn, Blackberry Farm’s dining venue, The Barn, is home to the world class dining experience that has been featured in esteemed publications such as Food & Wine, Gourmet and Bon Appétit. The multi-course menu is inspired by seasonal farm-fresh products and produce grown just a few feet away. Call early and reserve the most romantic seat in The Barn — the table in front of the expansive stone fireplace. We dined on delicacies such as Wild Mushroom Salad, Anson Mills Grits, and Tennessee Moulard Duck Breast. For dessert, the lemon cake with blackberry and raspberry jam was decadent. Breakfast and lunch is served in the main house where antiques and fine art, complimented by a rich English décor, enhance the experience. The signature rockers lining the stone veranda provide guests with the optimal vantage point to watch the haze rise to unveil the beauty of ancient mountains.

Blackberry Farm also hosts an impressive lineup of the world’s most famous chefs at Food and Wine events throughout the year which generally include an opening dinner, demonstrations, wine tasting and final dinner. Foodies will also want to reserve a spot in Blackberry’s popular “Cooking Demonstration” and “Day in the Life of a Chef” programs.

One of our most memorable dining experiences was a private picnic at the Boathouse on the banks of Walland Pond. As we approached the entrance, we found hundreds of rose petals leading us to our picnic table — a surprise from the staff. Steam encircled us from the spiced mulled cider as the waiter poured the hot drink into the cool glasses. Once the dome coverings were lifted, we dined on gourmet lunch delights. Then, it was just the two of us—observing gentle ripples on the pond where an occasional stray rose petal exited to float freely atop the water only to disappear with the current. The relaxing scene included a meadow where a flock of sheep slowly maneuvered the rolling hillside under the protective eye of a llama.  Ah…no clocks needed, we finally “owned” our own time in the midst of a honeymoon haven called Blackberry Farm.

Blackberry Farm, www.blackberryfarm.com, 800-648-2348

See also: Tennessee Weddings, Smoky Mountain Weddings

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Minnesota Bridal Shows and Events

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New Wedding Series To Feature Unique Traditions of Cultural Celebrations

A major cable network says “I do” to a new series that features unique wedding ceremonies from across the globe. Each one-hour episode will follow the entire matrimonial process, from the pre-nuptial frenzy to the heartfelt moment at the altar to the colorful after-wedding reception.

Though each ceremony is held on American soil, the traditions and customs of each individual story is uniquely international, culturally rich, and filled with often strange and wondrous rites. Plucked from ancient practices and century old traditions, these weddings are singular to the couple’s heritage. From the Zaffa wedding march and performing belly dancers in Egypt; to Iceland, where the bridal promenade meanders through the village; to the smashed dishes, circle dancing, and often week-long celebrations of Greek weddings and to the “jumping of the broom” in Africa; this new series will feature “couples of culture” who honor and embrace their cultural identity through the loving act of marriage.

Each story will be one of profound love and commitment and will celebrate the act of marriage. “Regardless of who performs the wedding or how it is performed, no matter what culture the ceremony celebrates or where it takes place or in what language it is spoken, the end result is still instantly recognizable as the unification of two souls,” says Mark Soldinger, President of Firecracker Films, who will produce the project.

Producers from Firecracker Films and the casting team from Metal Flowers Media are currently seeking wedding stories to be featured in the series. For more information or to refer a candidate, please contact Ivette Garcia at Metal Flowers Media: ivette@metalflowersmedia.com, or log on to www.facebook.com/metalflowersmedia to find out more.

See also: Wedding Planning, Real Weddings

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Wedding Book Review: Heading to the Wedding

A friend of mine turned me on to the cutest book this summer that is perfect for children who are participating in or simply attending a wedding as a guest.  The book is Heading to the Wedding by Sara Schacter.

Children often are not privy to the etiquette of weddings or similar events and this precious book provides important information about what happens at a wedding and how they should conduct themselves at a wedding.  The author uses humor and wit to create a story that is quite funny and cleverly informative.

This beautiful book (illustrated by Christine Thornton) is appropriate for both young girls and boys and I would recommend it to anyone who finds themselves with children participating in a wedding or who has to take their children to a wedding as guests.

You can buy this delightful book online at Amazon, Barnes and Noble or through the Publisher's Web site. You should be able to order it at any bookstore if it isn't on the shelf.

Good luck and Happy Planning!

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Honeymoon in Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada - Honeymoons

If you have been searching for a destination that boasts  luxury accommodations,   award-winning restaurants coupled with world-class entertainment,  then plan your honeymoon in Las Vegas,   Nevada. Nothing compares to the  “world” of Vegas where fantasy transfers to reality. Visitors relate to Vegas  on many levels, but my husband and I found romance in this famous “city of  lights.”

The Venetian Las Vegas

Located on the world-renowned Las Vegas Strip, The Venetian  Las Vegas has successfully recreated the glory of Venice, Italy,  including the famous landmarks, winding canals, authentic gondolas, arched  bridges and architecture. First, count the diamonds and stars to determine the  luxury level you will experience. The Venetian has received numerous accolades  since its opening, including a Five-Diamond rating from AAA and a Four-Star rating from Mobil-Travel- Guide. It is also tagged as the largest Five-Diamond and  Four-Star Resort in the world.

The Venetian - Las Vegas, Nevada

The “wow” factor  begins in the lobby where we found domed and vaulted ceilings plus reproductions  of frescoes framed in gold. Gawking at the gigantic masterpieces on the casino ceiling  caused me to apologize more than once for bumping into serious gamers. After  the elevator zipped us to the 21st floor, we stepped into unmatched  opulence in our 650 square feet Luxury Suite complete with a bed chamber  featuring a plush king-size pillow-top bed, and fine Anichini linens. The suite  comes with three televisions including a LCD television in the marble-adorned  bathroom as well as fresh-cut flowers.

The Venetian Luxury Suite - Las Vegas, Nevada

The sunken living room was our favorite spot after the city  had worn us down. A comfy sofa and a remote provided us hours of entertainment.  No—not a television remote, but a remote to reveal one of the most amazing city  scapes I have ever seen. The only catch… you must wait until sundown for the  full effect. With the press of a button, the Roman shades and curtains automatically  swept to the side for the big reveal, a showcase of miles of twinkling lights  in dazzling colors. For us, the kaleidoscope of colors blended into the night  sky for an evening of relaxation. High above the hustle of The Strip, we  enjoyed the quiet side of Las Vegas,  knowing the town that never sleeps “rocked on” below.

Gondolas and Weddings

The Venetian Gondola Rides - Las Vegas, Nevada

The Venetian is known for their gondola rides where  professional gondoliers with amazing operatic voices will serenade you.  One of our favorite romantic memories was  gliding down the Grand Canal indoors in a  gondola where we floated by reproductions of St. Mark’s Square. Outdoor gondola  rides along the resort’s exterior waterway are also available.

You can even be pronounced Mr.  & Mrs. in a gondola. The decorated, white  gondola is uniquely crafted and authentically Italian where couples can glide  along The Grand Canal while they exchange vows. You can stand on the Ponte al  di Piazza, also known as “bridge over the square,” and witness weddings—no  invitation needed. The Venetian also offers other wedding locations such as The  Chapel, Bridge, and Venezia Chapel Terrace. Packages come complete with a  variety of upscale amenities—accommodations included.

You will enjoy the entertaining street performers at St.  Mark’s Square and purchase a few of your favorite things at the Grand Canal  Shoppes which stretches an entire quarter-mile featuring more than 80  international flavored boutiques and restaurants. There is no shortage of excellent  cuisine choices.  The Venetian’s 20  restaurants feature a famous line-up of award-winning chefs including Wolfgang  Puck, Emerial Lagasse and Mario Batali. After shopping, enjoy an afternoon at  the resort’s Pool Deck. Here, you will find a five-acre rooftop deck reminiscent  of a Venetian garden with three pools, cabanas and pavilion beds.

A Romantic Evening to  Remember

If you have dreamed of flying into the sunset with your  spouse, Papillon Airways now offers sunset tours of The Grand Canyon. Couples  can book private flights from McCarran   International Airport’s  Papillon terminal that also showcases the Las Vegas Strip. Guests will receive  round-trip complimentary limousine service from The Venetian and other major  area hotels.

Make dinner reservations well in advance for your next  romantic stop at the famed Eiffel Tower Restaurant located on the 11th  floor of the Paris Las Vegas’ Eiffel   Tower replica.   The private glass elevator delivered us up to our romantic  haven where the food matched the atmosphere. The intimate lighting combined  with the metal framework from the Eiffel   Tower breaking through  the restaurant created a dramatic art deco décor. We were seated at a corner  table overlooking the Bellagio Fountains—the best seat in Las Vegas.

Eiffel Tower Soufflé

Chef Jean Joho is well known for his decadent French cuisine,  and excellent wine pairing skills. The service—impeccable. Try the Grand Sea  Food Platter, Beef Wellington or Rack of Lamb, but whatever you choose, order  the Eiffel Tower Soufflé` to finish a perfect meal. We lingered to watch the  Bellagio Fountains “show off” one more time. The fountains, with more than  1,200 jets, send dancing water as high as 460 feet into the night air. Add  4,500 lights and music, and it is easy to understand why this is a must-see for  newlyweds. After dinner, board another elevator to view the lights of Vegas  from the observation deck atop the Eiffel   Tower replica. The  enclosed area is nearly 50 stories above the ground—a great honeymoon memory.

Now, that’s  Entertainment

Known as “The Entertainment Capital of the World,” Las Vegas offers visitors  a variety of upscale venues, shows and high-profile entertainers. The Colosseum  at Caesars Palace headliners include Elton John,  who begins a three-year residency in September 2011, and Rod Stewart, who began  a two-year residency beginning in August 2011. “She’s back.”  Shania Twain chose Las Vegas to make her come back with a two-year  residency beginning December, 2012, and Celine Dion returned in March 2011 for  a three-year residency.

For romantic entertainment, we chose Le Rêve at Wynn Las  Vegas and Phantom at the Venetian: Palazzo. We made reservations well in  advance for Le Rêve, and dined before the show at The Capital Grille located at  the Fashion Show Mall. The restaurant offers a bird’s eye view of the Las Vegas  Strip. The Capital Grille is known for exceptional food and can be found in at  least 40 U.S. cities  including New York, Miami  and Beverly Hills.  Try the Wine Room for an intimate dining experience. The restaurant is nationally  acclaimed for its steaks, (hand-cut and dry aged on premise,) as well as  exceptional seafood. We dined on Sliced Filet Mignon with Cipollini Onions and  Wild Mushrooms, Lobster Bisque, and Classic Crème Brulee.

Photo Contributed By: Le Rêve at Wynn Las Vegas

After dinner, it was just a short walk to the Wynn Las Vegas  to enjoy Le Rêve, an aquatic masterpiece production. I could fill a page with  adjectives to describe the Le Rêve: thought-provoking, artistic, sensual,  emotional, and thrilling—the one must-see production in Las Vegas.  This aquatic spectacular is presented in a  collection of dreams with live music and special effects. The first scene is a  bed rising out of the water—the beginning of romantic imagery.  The performances are in an intimate aqua  theater-in-the-round where a cast of 85 perform breathtaking aerial acrobatic  and artistic athleticism.  The VIP ticket  is best for romance and includes luxurious seating, bottle of champagne,  chocolate-covered strawberries, gourmet chocolate truffles, and behind-the-scenes  footage shown on private video monitor. Guests also receive a privileged Access Pass  for VIP entry to select Wynn/Encore establishments.

For nightlife—jetsetters style, visit Tryst, and Blush, both  located at the Wynn Las Vegas. The main room at Tryst has an open-air dance floor  extending into a 90-foot waterfall, cascading into a secluded lagoon. Here, the  A-List celebrities mingle with the people.  Blush creates an intimate nightlife experience  while not losing the hip and high energy vibe of the club scene. With 300 crème  lantern ceiling fixtures and elaborate visual effects, plus an outside secluded  patio setting, Blush is perfect for romance.

Photo Contributed By: The Venetian Resort Hotel , Photo Credit: Isaac Brekken

For a heart-pounding experience, make reservations for Phantom, the hit musical by Andrew Lloyd  Webber. In the Venetian’s $40 million custom-built theatre,  Phantom-The Las Vegas Spectacular is  an all-new 95 minute production that includes every song from the original and  is directed by 21-time Tony award-winner Harold Prince. The Las Vegas
Review-Journal named Phantom “#1 Show in Las Vegas  for 2011.” The Venetian is also home to the popular Blue Man Group. What can I say?   They are blue, hilarious and widely famous for their artistic routines  to music.

On our last night in Las    Vegas, we actually turned on our large screen  television…for about 30 seconds. The mesmerizing lights kept drawing us back to  the wall of glass in our Venetian hotel suite. We reminisced about finding the  romantic side of Vegas, and we did it without any of the antics from the film  “The Hangover” or one Elvis sighting. With our photos and memories “What  happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas” is just a cliché.

For Las Vegas  tourist and show information, visit www.VisitLasVegas.com or call  877-847-4858.

Most Photos Courtesy Holloway Productions

See also: Las Vegas Weddings, Nevada Weddings, Wedding Planning

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Save-The-Dates: 5 Important Etiquette Tips all Brides Should Know

I get a lot of questions from brides about Save-The-Dates: the cards, letters, magnets, etc. that you send out to let guests know about the wedding before the official invitations are sent. The Save-The-Date is an implied or pre-invitation so you need to be sure you do them correctly – you can’t uninvite someone to whom you send a Save-The-Date!

Following are a few tips that address the most common questions I get from brides about Save-The-Dates:

~1~

Save-The-Dates are generally sent by the Bride and Groom and not the parents. The return address used is usually the Bride's address because she is generally the one keeping track of addresses and would need to know if a card was returned for incorrect address. That being said, if the parents really want to send the Save-the-Dates and monitor any returned mail, that is okay – no big etiquette faux pas – really.

~2~

Send your Save-The-Dates 6 months before the wedding. If you are planning a destination wedding that involves significant travel – such as to Hawaii or Mexico – send the Save-The-Dates 12 months before the wedding so guests can start making their travel plans.  

Be sure you have nailed down the location of the wedding before you send out the Save-The-Dates. Seriously – do not send them right after you get engaged and pick a date! You need to include the location or at least the City and State on the Save-The-Date and you really need to know the number of guests you can have before you send Save-The-Dates. You don't want to send out too many – remember you can't uninvite! If your guest list isn’t finished, keep in mind that you do not have to send Save-The-Dates to all guests. Just send them to your closest family and friends that you really want to attend.

~3~

The number one question I get about Save-The-Dates is "do we include the 'and guest' on the envelope?" Absolutely! Although the Save-The-Date is an informal piece and the phrase "and Guest" sounds somewhat formal, it should be included. It is best to use the actual names of everyone you intend to invite including boyfriends and children, etc. However, if you don't know who your single friend may bring, include "and Guest." This is the best way to avoid confusion and uninvited guests!

~4~

Be sure to include the words "Invitation to follow" on your Save-The-Date so guests know it isn't the actual invitation (and therefore they should RSVP). If you are sending a magnet, include the words "Magnet Enclosed" on the envelope – magnets can cause problems for some electronics if placed on them. Also be sure to include the date, city, state and location of the wedding on the Save-The-Date. You can also include your Wedding Web Site address where your guests can get updated information as your wedding plans progress.

~5~

No. 5: What NOT to Include With Save-The-Dates Do not include Information about your Bridal Registry on the Save-The-Dates. The appropriate place for your bridal registry information is on your Wedding Web Site. Also, do not include confetti that will make a huge mess when your guest opens the envelope! You don’t want their first impression of your special day to be "ugh!" or an eye roll. :-)

If you are on a tight budget and you are not planning a destination wedding, you can skip the Save-the-Dates altogether - they are not absolutely necessary.

Just like your wedding, Save-The-Dates should be fun and not stressful. Follow these simple guidelines and you will be just fine!

Happy Planning!

~ Lei

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The Royal Wedding Photos

Congratulations to William and Kate - a beautiful royal couple indeed!

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It's (Not) Easy Being Green: Planning an Eco-Friendly Wedding

Like most people nowadays, you’re doing your best to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle than you once did. You choose reusable shopping bags, carry an aluminum thermos rather than buying bottled water, and are the first one on your block to proudly display your accumulation of recyclables on the curb every other week. But the idea of having a green wedding can be a bit daunting. Planning a wedding is a lot of work, and the pressure to make environmentally-responsible choices might not be foremost in your mind. But the truth is, it’s not an all-or-nothing proposition, and eco-friendly choices are available at every turn. Here are some ideas to consider.

Your Gown

It’s easy to find dresses made out of polyester, but remember that polyester is petroleum-based. Consider a dress made out of more natural fibers, such as cotton or silk. Another way to minimize the effect on the environment is to buy or borrow a gently-used or vintage dress. Or, choose a dress that you can wear again – cutting it down for another event, perhaps.

Your Invitations

There are many options for environmentally-friendly wedding invitations. We offer a large selection to choose from.

• Birchcraft Studios is now using soy-based inks for all thermography printing except metallic colors. Their recycled papers include up to 100% post-consumer stock. In addition, they also offer invitations printed on 100% cotton paper.
• Carlson Craft offers environmentally friendly wedding products by many lines, including Naturally Ever After™, Chloe B.® and The Wedding Collection™. Their offerings include products that are printed on paper that is Green Seal Certified, made with 100% post-consumer fibers and created without the use of chlorine compounds.
• McPherson’s and Stylart both offer products from the Naturally Ever After™ line, which features products crafted on quality, recycled papers containing at least 30% post-consumer fibers.

Your Flowers

• Find a florist who carries organically-grown, local flowers that are in season. Flowers that have been grown organically have been grown without the use of pesticides and other dangerous chemicals. Buying a local product will reduce the distance that they need to be shipped, thus reducing carbon emissions. Look for labels such as ‘eco-friendly’, ‘socially responsible’ and ‘Fair Trade.’ If you live in New York, visit Gardenia Organic, New York’s first sustainable florist. In Boston, visit Faxon Green, where they compost all living material, recycle everything, use the cardboard boxes and cartons of vases to pack bouquets for delivery, and do not use floral foam, plastic or chemicals. Or visit Organic Bouquet to order organic flowers online.
• Reuse your flowers. After the ceremony, have a friend transport them to the reception so that you can use them as table decorations, or a beautiful background for your photos. After the party, send them home with your guests.
• Another option which is gaining popularity is the use of silk flowers, rather than natural. A great benefit of these flowers is that you can keep them forever as a special memento from your wedding day.

Your Favors

• Buy edible or consumable favors. These include chocolate, cookies, jams, soy candles, free-trade tea or coffee.
• Or, you might choose live seedling favors. Environmental and earth-friendly, with a natural elegance, seedlings by Green World Project make excellent favors, and can be personalized for any occasion. The National Arbor Day Foundation also makes it easy for eco-friendly brides to give trees for their favors. The trees are delivered in an easy recyclable plastic tube with your choice of customized label. Your recipients can plant their trees right away, store them in a refrigerator, or grow them indoors for months.
• In lieu of favors, consider making a donation to a charitable organization in honor of your wedding guests (a choice we are seeing more and more often). Ethiopian Orphan Relief, Inc. (EOR), for example, is doing wonderful work to improve the living conditions and lives of orphaned children in Ethiopia. Your guests will no doubt find this to be far more meaningful than a tin of jordan almonds will ever be.

Your Decor

Candles add so much romantic ambiance to a room, and are a great alternative to flowers. Soy and beeswax candles are cleaner and burn longer than traditional candles, and are not made using petroleum by-products. Scent-Sations, Inc. specializes in soy candles, and has a large variety of colors and scents to choose from.

Your Photographs

Find a photographer who works in digital format. Digital photos are more environmentally friendly because they don’t require the use of toxic chemicals and don’t waste paper. If you would still prefer film photography, discuss less toxic developing methods with your photographer. And please don’t place disposable cameras on the tables at your reception. Most of your guests will bring their own digital cameras, and will be happy to share their photos with you.

Your Caterer

• Choose a caterer who specializes in local, organic food. Simply using locally grown vegetables and meats both supports the local economy and reduces transport carbon emissions.
• Consider a vegetarian or vegan menu. Or, if you choose to serve meat, make sure that it is organic and cruelty-free.
• Choose a plated meal, rather than a buffet. If the food is prepared and served based on the actual number of guests, it alleviates the need to make the extra food that is needed on the buffet. This also tends to result in fewer dirty dishes, which reduces the amount of hot water and detergent needed to clean them.
• And don’t forget to choose fair-trade coffee and tea to accompany your organic wedding cake!

It might not always be “easy” to make green choices, but these choices (along with all of the other eco-friendly lifestyle changes you have already made) will help to make the earth a better place for your children. Now… start looking for that gently-used dress!

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Official Web Site for the Royal Wedding Launched Yesterday

As I sit over here in the United States fighting this terrible cold/flu/strep - whatever, I just realized I missed announcing yesterday's launch of the Official Royal Wedding Web Site.

I know everyone here is not interested in the Royal family but many are and that Kate Middleton is just a doll! The wedding is scheduled for April 29, 2011 at Westminster Abbey with the reception following at Buckingham Palace of course.

So if you want to get all of the latest updates on this wedding that is sure to be the wedding of all weddings, here are some links to help:

officialroyalwedding2011.org
Twitter
YouTube
Facebook
Flickr

I love their use of social media to get the word out about this sure to be fab wedding. I am dying to see what Kate wears!

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Romantic New Orleans

Honeymoon in one of the most romantic cities in the world where European traditions blend with Caribbean influences. You will find the night crowds on Bourbon Street exhilarating, yet holding hands down centuries old Pirate’s Alley is perfect for intimacy. Here, the chefs are famous, and it is okay to sing the blues. Film producers seek this address, and you are just as likely to spot a film star here as in Hollywood. Celebrated for its uniqueness and resilience, New Orleans, Louisiana, is romance central.

Hotel Monteleone

When my husband and I first stepped off Royal Street into the Grand Lobby of the AAA Four Diamond Hotel Monteleone, we were not disappointed. Luxury prevailed from the opulent crystal chandelier to the famous clock. The hotel has recently undergone a $70 million restoration that extended to suites decorated with lush fabrics, plush bedding, and granite and marble bathrooms.

The Monteleone family has welcomed guests to this designated Historic Hotel of America since 1886. Monteleone is one of only three U.S. hotels to receive the prestigious Literary Landmark designation by the Friends of Libraries, USA. Many of our favorite authors such as William Faulkner, Tennessee Williams, Eudora Welty and Truman Capote have lodged here and written about the hotel using it as settings for their stories or novels.

The Vieux Carre Suites are popular, but for a literal “over the top experience,” reserve the Ernest Hemmingway Penthouse Suite. After 10:00 p.m., swing open your balcony door and the hotel’s heated rooftop pool is steps from your bed—exclusively for the two of you. A cozy retreat within the Monteleone, Spa Aria, uses world-renown products from Pevonia. Enjoy the “Couples Treatment” that comes with champagne and chocolates. Celebrating 61 years, the hotel’s famous Carousel Bar is the only bar in New Orleans that revolves around the room. The bar was transformed into a clothing store in the film, Double Jeopardy, starring Ashley Judd and Tommie Lee Jones.

You may never see the 17th floor of the hotel unless you have just gotten married. Monteleone is a popular venue to exchange vows. After the ceremony, the bride and groom are whisked away by private elevator to the 17th floor rooftop where a table set for two is waiting in the shadow of the famous Monteleone sign. Here, newlyweds have their photos taken and champagne is served before the reception begins. The hotel was recognized by Fodor’s Travel as a “Best Destination Wedding Hotel in the U.S.,” and was previously awarded “Best Romantic Hotel” by Citysearch.

Exploring The French Quarter and Beyond

Explore the French Quarter on slate sidewalks along Royal Street where balconies with hanging baskets decorate buildings dating back to the 1700’s. Stop by the Historic
New Orleans Collection and learn the storied past of the city and spend some time in their lush courtyard—a French Quarter trademark. Zip in and out of some of the finest antique and art galleries in the world. Take time to enjoy the street musicians, and detour along Pirate’s Alley to the Faulkner House bookstore to see where the author penned his first novel.

Head for Jackson Square, the location of an outdoor artist colony, and have your own portrait drawn for a lasting memento. This is where you can embark on a romantic carriage ride through the French Quarter. Directly across from Jackson Square, visit Café du Monde where coffee and beignets have been served since 1862. Take time to shop at the open-air French Market for carnival masks, jewelry, arts, crafts and voodoo dolls. A few blocks away, board a steamboat for a cruise down the Mississippi.

Leave the French Quarter by boarding the St. Charles Avenue streetcar to the stately mansions and shops of the Garden District where author Anne Rice previously resided. For artsy and eclectic stores, find the perfect item for your new home along the 39-block strip of Magazine Street. Lastly, check out the tours in the Big Easy, such as a ghost tour, or brave the bayou for a swamp tour.

Night Moves

New Orleans is known as the birthplace of jazz and you can be entertained by Grammy award-winning artist Irvin Mayfield at his acclaimed club, Irvin Mayfield’s Jazz Playhouse. Located in the Royal Sonesta Hotel, you will find a variety of performers, and Irvin Mayfield is featured on Wednesdays. Another favorite is Arnaud’s Jazz Bristo, and don’t forget the sing-a-longs at Pat O’Brien’s.

Romantic Dining

New Orleans is a foodie’s paradise where couples can mix romance and the best food on the planet. While there are dozens of restaurants to choose from, there are three that you must try. “Breakfast at Brennan’s” is a pop icon phrase known around the world. A Brennan’s breakfast must not be rushed so that you can savor not only the unforgettable cuisine, but the entire Brennan’s experience. Be sure to ask for a corner patio table for privacy. Our favorite menu items include turtle soup, Egg Hussarde, Shrimp Remoulade and last, the famous Bananas Foster—a Brennan’s creation. The Crepes Fitzgerald is a close second, and the excitement of both dishes being flamed tableside in rum is almost as much fun as eating it. Harry Connick Jr., Nicholas Cage and Anthony Hopkins have noted Brennan’s as their favorite restaurant.

For an evening of fine dining, we reserved a table in the Wine Room at Restaurant August. The restaurant is located in a French-Creole building dating from the 1800’s where John Besh is known around the U.S. for his delectable dishes. Besh has been honoree by Food & Wine (“Top 10 Best New Chefs in America”) and the James Beard Foundation named Besh (Best Chef-Southeast.) We enjoyed the Five Course Tasting Menu beginning with Cane Glazed Pork Belly and finished with Valrhona Chocolate with salted toffee ice cream—an unforgettable meal.

Boasting patrons from numerous U.S. Presidents, royalty and celebrities, the legendary Arnaud’s Restaurant has been a New Orleans tradition since 1918. With the classic elegant chandeliers, tiled floor, and tuxedo-clad waitstaff, the main dining room is vintage New Orleans. Ask for the table where Benjamin (Brad Pitt) and Daisy (Cate Blanchett) dined on their first date in the film, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. Brad and Angelina have dined here as well. Savor the scrumptious Shrimp Arnaud, Filet Mignon Charlemond and finish with Praline Crepes.

Touring Romantic River Road

Stretching from New Orleans to Baton Rouge, the 80 mile River Road winds along the Mississippi River revealing architectural gems of the past when sugar was king and wealth was displayed in grand mansions. Add River Road to your New Orleans itinerary, or extend your honeymoon overnight. On weekends, as the last tour is completed, you will witness the event teams at Oak Alley, Houmas House and Bocage busily preparing for weddings.

Oak Alley Plantation

Known for the breathtaking one-quarter mile alley of 300-year-old live oak trees, Oak Alley was built for Jacques Roman, a wealthy sugar planter in 1839. The double row of oaks was planted in the early 1700’s. Oak Alley’s 28 massive columns, matching the number of trees, is pure Greek Revival architecture excellence. While the house tour is spectacular, romance lies underneath the majestic oaks in the cool of the afternoon. “Interview with a Vampire” was filmed in part here, as well as an episode of the television show “Ace of Cakes.”

Houmas House Plantation and Gardens

Enter a time warp of gentility and elegance at Houmas House Plantation. With a storied past dating the original structure to the 1770’s, the present structure was built in the late 1820’s. The best remembered owner, John Burnside, purchased the estate in 1858, and he was known as “The Sugar Prince of Louisiana.” He became the largest sugar planter in America. Our guide pointed out a rare 1847 map of Louisiana, the Houmas China, and a French mantle clock—made in Paris and reputed to have been acquired by Napoleon from the estate of Marie Antoinette. We enjoyed a romantic evening of dining at Latil’s Landing, located in the original 1770’s structure overlooking the fountain and gardens.

We witnessed the wedding of Shelly Stuart and Derrick Payne in front of Houmas House. This picture perfect setting comes complete with swaying Spanish moss dangling from centuries old live oak trees. The good news is Houmas House newlyweds can lodge onsite at the Honeymoon Cottage—a few steps from the main house. Visionary owner, Kevin Kelly, noted there has been a surge in destination weddings, with couples traveling across the U.S. to be married at Houmas House. Wedding receptions spill out onto the lush tropical gardens adorned with ponds, fountains, statuary, courtyards and a scenic bridge.

Hollywood found Houmas House in 1964, when featured in the classic Hush, Hush Sweet Charlotte. Recently, Love, Wedding, Marriage starring Jane Seymour, Mandy Moore, and James Brolin, and Revenge of the Bridesmaids, starring Raven Symone, was filmed at Houmas House.

Bocage Plantation

Originally built in 1801, Bocage was a wedding gift from Marius Brinier, to his daughter Fanny. The original Creole Cottage burned and the Greek Revival structure in existence today was designed by famous architect James Dakin and built in 1837. Bocage was opened as a Bed & Breakfast in 2009, and daily tours are available. After lying dormant for several decades, Dr. Marion Rundell purchased Bocage and restoration was begun in 2008. We slept in an antique bed by Prudent Mallard in the Bringier Red Room and the Blue Room has a bed by C. Lee. Both rooms have access to the balcony through 12-foot windows. Other fine antiques furnishings include names such as Belter and Meeks that are usually reserved for the finest house museums. Also, notice the exquisite paintings by Rembrandt, Peale and Thomas Sully. Fit for a prince and princess, our breakfast was served on fine china in the Napoleon inspired dining room.

Bocage Plantation is steeped in history with ties to Christopher Columbus, early colonization, and the Louisiana Purchase. Well documented in many books and used as a Hollywood set, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Karen Kingsley, writes in her book, Buildings of Louisiana, "Certainly Ashland-Belle Helene and Bocage achieve an austere purity of form that places them among the best and, in the case of Bocage, the most original interpretations of American Greek Revival style in the nation."

We fell in love with the treasures of River Road years ago…a place so addictively romantic that a warning sign is needed stating “One visit will never be enough.” The epic landscapes of River Road and the rhythm of New Orleans are always on our mind.

Fast Facts:
For more tourist information, contact the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau, 1-800-672-6124, www.neworleanscvb.com
Hotel Monteleon: 1-866-338-4684, www.hotelmonteleone.com
Oak Alley: 1-800-442-5539, www.oakalleyplantation.com
Houmas House: 1-888-323-8314, www.houmashouse.com
Bocage: 225-588-8000, www.bocageplantation.com

All Photos Courtesy Holloway Productions

See also: New Orleans Weddings, Louisiana Weddings, Wedding Planning

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A Blackberry Farm Honeymoon

In our quest to find the ultimate Smoky Mountain honeymoon destination,  my husband and I traveled along the rural Millers Cove road in Walland,  Tennessee. After following a white rail fence lined with evergreens, a sign  marked the spot—Blackberry Farm.  Here,  in the shadows of one of the world’s most exceptional landscapes, we entered our  hideaway for romance and adventure in a luxurious country estate. A place so  extraordinary that I am certain the proprietor, Sam Beall and team, conspired  with nature to awaken the senses.

Click on the article title or read more link for the entire article and to see more pictures.

See also: Tennessee Weddings, Smoky Mountain Weddings

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New Wedding Series To Feature Unique Traditions of Cultural Celebrations

A major cable network says “I do” to a new series that features unique wedding ceremonies from across the globe. Each one-hour episode will follow the entire matrimonial process, from the pre-nuptial frenzy to the heartfelt moment at the altar to the colorful after-wedding reception.

Though each ceremony is held on American soil, the traditions and customs of each individual story is uniquely international, culturally rich, and filled with often strange and wondrous rites. Plucked from ancient practices and century old traditions, these weddings are singular to the couple’s heritage. From the Zaffa wedding march and performing belly dancers in Egypt; to Iceland, where the bridal promenade meanders through the village; to the smashed dishes, circle dancing, and often week-long celebrations of Greek weddings and to the “jumping of the broom” in Africa; this new series will feature “couples of culture” who honor and embrace their cultural identity through the loving act of marriage.

Each story will be one of profound love and commitment and will celebrate the act of marriage. “Regardless of who performs the wedding or how it is performed, no matter what culture the ceremony celebrates or where it takes place or in what language it is spoken, the end result is still instantly recognizable as the unification of two souls,” says Mark Soldinger, President of Firecracker Films, who will produce the project.

Producers from Firecracker Films and the casting team from Metal Flowers Media are currently seeking wedding stories to be featured in the series. For more information or to refer a candidate, please contact Ivette Garcia at Metal Flowers Media: ivette@metalflowersmedia.com, or log on to www.facebook.com/metalflowersmedia to find out more.

See also: Wedding Planning, Real Weddings

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Wedding Book Review: Heading to the Wedding

A friend of mine turned me on to the cutest book this summer that is perfect for children who are participating in or simply attending a wedding as a guest.  The book is Heading to the Wedding by Sara Schacter.

Children often are not privy to the etiquette of weddings or similar events and this precious book provides important information about what happens at a wedding and how they should conduct themselves at a wedding.  The author uses humor and wit to create a story that is quite funny and cleverly informative.

This beautiful book (illustrated by Christine Thornton) is appropriate for both young girls and boys and I would recommend it to anyone who finds themselves with children participating in a wedding or who has to take their children to a wedding as guests.

You can buy this delightful book online at Amazon, Barnes and Noble or through the Publisher's Web site. You should be able to order it at any bookstore if it isn't on the shelf.

Good luck and Happy Planning!

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Honeymoon in Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada - Honeymoons

If you have been searching for a destination that boasts  luxury accommodations,  award-winning restaurants coupled with world-class entertainment,  then plan your honeymoon in Las Vegas,   Nevada. Nothing compares to the  “world” of Vegas where fantasy transfers to reality. Visitors relate to Vegas  on many levels, but my husband and I found romance in this famous “city of  lights.”...

Photo Courtesy Holloway Productions

See also: Las Vegas Weddings, Nevada Weddings, Wedding Planning

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Save-The-Dates: 5 Important Etiquette Tips all Brides Should Know

I get a lot of questions from brides about Save-The-Dates: the cards, letters, magnets, etc. that you send out to let guests know about the wedding before the official invitations are sent. The Save-The-Date is an implied or pre-invitation so you need to be sure you do them correctly – you can’t uninvite someone to whom you send a Save-The-Date!

Following are a few tips that address the most common questions I get from brides about Save-The-Dates:

~1~

Save-The-Dates are generally sent by the Bride and Groom and not the parents. The return address used is usually the Bride's address because she is generally the one keeping track of addresses and would need to know if a card was returned for incorrect address. That being said, if the parents really want to send the Save-the-Dates and monitor any returned mail, that is okay – no big etiquette faux pas – really.

~2~

Send your Save-The-Dates 6 months before the wedding. If you are planning a destination wedding that involves significant travel – such as to Hawaii or Mexico – send the Save-The-Dates 12 months before the wedding so guests can start making their travel plans.  

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