"Vintage" Honeymoon Destinations

Now when I say vintage, I mean destinations that were popular in the 60's-80's. It is a trend that is emerging more and more. Young couples are wanting to honeymoon places that were "hot spots" decades ago. Some are even returning to places their parents and grandparents honeymooned/vacationed. Puerto Rico and Jamaica are among those places.

 

I would love to travel to where my grandparents visited. My mom's parents went to Silver Springs, Florida for their honeymoon. Not very exotic, but hey, they do have the "glass bottom boats". My dad's parents went to New Orleans and enjoyed a romatic cajun honeymoon!

When getting prepared to write this blog, I remembered I had some old pictures of my grandparents (some while on vacation and one of my dad's parents on their wedding day). Miss them all.

 

 

The most recent Birmingham Weddings & Celebrations magazine points out some GREAT places that are both adventurous and relaxing.

 

Cabo, Mexico: Capella Pedregal

 

This is a luxury resort in Cabo San Lucas that has a tunnel carved into the mountain that separates Cabo from the Pacific Ocean. This dramatic entrance to Capella Pedregal deposits visitors at the hotel's entrance courtyard, overlooking a long expanse of beach and the ocean. It leaves no question that you have entered a world apart. Enjoy immediate proximity to the world-class Cabo Marina at Capella Pedregal. Guests and residents who want to experience true "Cabo culture" will find the vibrant shops, dining and entertainment of Cabo San Lucas village all within easy reach by foot, bike, personal auto or resort valet.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hawaii: Four Seasons at Haualalai

 

This resort comes with the best views of oceans and black-lava landscapes. Feel the authentic Hawaiian spirit as you enjoy the ultimate in Hualalai luxury. The natural white-sand beach at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai offers crystal-clear, calm waters and sheltered swimming. The resort has an old-Hawaiian charm with lots of open-air living spaces. Choose from three restaurants and two ocean-side lounges with creative menus that reflect the changing of the seasons and the bounty of Hawaii’s farms and coasts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jamaica: Sandals Whitehouse

 

Sandals Resorts are known as a place for "two people in love". A very romantic destination indeed. Sandals has designed the perfect combination of European civility and an all-beachfront tropical resort. Sandals Whitehouse is a majestic beachfront oasis within a 500-acre nature preserve. Relax by one of three pools, including Jamaica's largest. At night, extravagant bonfire areas and fire pits add to the glow of this truly unique destination in the heart of paradise.

 

 

Puerto Rico: Dorado Ritz-Carlton

 

Once a plantation, Dorado Beach is now a private retreat inspired by the legacy of its original developer, Laurance S. Rockefeller. This luxurious hideaway features beautiful beachfront accommodations just steps from the sea. Created as an open-air enclave infused with references to the surrounding natural landscape and diverse culture, Dorado Beach is a true luxury sanctuary designed to allure the world’s most discerning travellers through an array of one-of-a-kind lifestyle experiences. Discover the tastes of the Caribbean set along Puerto Rico's dramatic beach-front shoreline.

 

 

St. Lucia: Ladera Resort

 

Ladera is the only resort in St.Lucia located on the UNESCO World Heritage Site, overlooking the Pitons and the Caribbean Sea. It is located on the Soufriere Volcano. Ladera was once part of Rabot Estate, one of Soufrière's oldest and most famous cocoa plantations. In 1982 it was transformed into the unique resort it is today. The 32 suites all have an "open wall" – the west side of each unit is left open to expose the breathtaking view, and the orientation of the buildings maintains complete privacy.

 

Wedding Venues: The Club

Anyone that knows me, knows how much I love The Club. My family has been going there for birthdays, parties, special events and holidays for as long as I can remember. Now that I am in the wedding industry, I love going there for work events. It is such a beautiful venue for weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners and even bridesmaid brunches.

 

 

What makes The Club such a fantastic venue? For one, have you seen that floor? The Club's signature (besides the AMAZING food) is the lighted dance floor. In fact, the floor inspired the movie Saturday Night Fever with John Travolta to have a lighted dance floor. When dining at The Club, always get out and dance. The music is almost always a live bandstand!

 

 

 

And that view! The Club is located on top of Red Mountain with sweeping panoramic views of the city. Perfect for wedding pictures! The Club features a contemporary style and the service is that of a private club. The membership includes, but is not limited to:

• Quality service offered by a dedicated staff
• Reciprocity privileges with over 60 national clubs
• Access to rooms for private functions
• Personalized party and event planning
• A selection of three dining venues

And on a more personal note:

• Year-round social activities
• Weekly live entertainment
• Networking opportunities with community leaders
• Complimentary valet parking

 

 

The Club offers three dining areas: The Signature, The View and The Grill. All have AMAZING food. When in the Signature room, order the orange rolls. They are unbelievable!

 

 

The Grill is a more casual modern addition to The Club. Perfect for grabbing after work drinks and watching a game. The attire is casual and they do not accept reservations, so it is first come basis. A must try if I say so myself!

 

 

 

The View is probably my favorite area (although I do love the dance floor in the Signature room). This is where I have attended the most rehearsal dinners and before/after wedding events. The room has a gorgeous view over the city, especially at night. The lighting is dim and very welcoming and romantic. The View is business casual attire and reservations are encouraged.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Signature room is the "signature restaurant" of The Club. This is where you will find the dance floor, where most wedding receptions are held. For dinner, coat and tie are recommended and reservations are highly encouraged as well.

 

 The Club is known for their wonderful wedding traditions. Found on their website, they state:

    

     "When you arrive for your wedding reception one of our bridal staff will be waiting for you outside to escort the Bride and Groom to the bridal suite. In the bridal suite, there will be a pre-planned meal and drinks of your choice waiting for you. The bridal assistant will be there to help with the bustling of the gown, any touch-ups or changes that need to be made. When all of your guests arrive, the bridal assistant will escort you downstairs and cue the band to make the introduction of the Bride and Groom. Throughout the evening the bridal assistant will ensure that any need of the Bride, Groom and family are met. The assistant will escort you both to the cake when it is time to be cut and also cue you when it is time for throwing the bouquet and garter. When the wedding end is near, there is no need to worry, the bridal staff will already have all of your things and to-go boxes packed in the getaway car. The staff will also take care of packing all of your presents and to-go boxes for your family after you have left."

 

 

 

 

Your wedding day is one of the most memorable days of your lives and The Club will be there to ensure that it is unforgettable!

Check out a great blog, Borrowed & Blue for more The Club pictures!

NYC: Sex & the City

Most girls I know used to (or still) watch Sex & the City. I even have the DVD set and watch the reruns weekly! The glamorous lifestyle, the parties, the friendship and the CITY, what is not to love!

I have been to New York almost a dozen times and there are still so many things I have not done yet. I would love to take a girls trip (or even a bachelorette trip) to NYC and live like Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda for one spectacular week! Spending a week in magnificent midtown Manhatten, Greenwich Village, SoHo and the Meat Packing District. Would be such a great trip!

New York is full of so many exciting places and things to do. When I travel to New York I tend to do the touristy things with a few fun dinners and drinks, but to go all out would be a dream come true!

If you love fashion, like Carrie Bradshaw, this would be a great trip to take. New York is home to the best department stores, boutiques, and designer shops! Sometimes it seemed like the only thing Carrie did was shop. Including Jimmy Choo, Manolo Blahnik, Patricia Field, Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany & Co., Henri Bendel, Takashimaya (an amazing store if I say so myself!), Saks Fifth Avenue, Lord & Taylor and more! Just make sure to bring a lot of extra spending money!!

Venture over to the Plaza Hotel, where Carrie said "good-bye" to Mr. Big (for the millionth time). Enjoy a lunch and afternoon tea in The Palm Court. They serve wonderful a la carte brunch as well! Also, a wonderful place to stay while vacationing in NYC!

 

For dinner why not pop over to Blue Water Grill on 16th and Broadway. This is where Charlotte's "knight in shining armor" picks a fight. Don't say you do not remember that episode! The restaurant looks absolutely gorgeous! If you are going to NYC for a bridal trip/bachelorette party, this is a spectacular place to grab food. The atmosphere is sophisticated and elegant!

 

 

A trip to NYC is not complete without stopping by Tiffany & Co. Which is a favorite of the gals, of course! Buy yourself a little something nice. Always fun to have something in a "little blue box"!

 

 

 

After spending a day shopping, you may want a nice relaxing spa day with the girls. Samantha's favorite spa is the Helena Rubinstein Gallery and Spa. Located on 135 Spring Street, it is tucked away among cosmetic stores. Sip tea while you wait to have the best spa treatment of your life! The spa is known for its wonderful Date Facial!

 

If you have a sweet tooth, pop over to Miranda and Carrie's favorite bakery called Magnolia Bakery. Found on 11th and Bleeker. They have everything you could possibly dream about! The cupcakes look divine! They also do wedding cakes if you are in the market for cake!

 

If you are in the mood for drinks, head over to 58th and Madison to Tao. It is where Carrie had her first date with "the jazz player". If that is not your scene, try ordering a Cosmopolitan at The Monkey Bar on 60 East 54th Street. This was a popular place for the girls of Sex and the City when they were single and fed up!

 

 

Tao, where Carrie and the jazz player had an awkward double date with Mr. Big

Monkey Bar

 

 

 

If you are a HUGE fan, Carrie's apartment is on 66 Perry Street! That is one place that I would LOVE to see!

 

 

 

And I leave you with some great advice from Carrie Bradshaw!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bridal Boot Camp

The winter weather is coming to an end (hopefully) so it is time to really kick the bridal boot camp into gear! Your wedding is coming up this year and you may have over indulged in holiday (an even Valentine's Day) goodies. Get ready to get your bridal workout on!

First, check Feel the Beat Entertainment's awesome "Bridal Boot Camp" Pinterest page for daily inspiration and tips!

This year I have been on a serious health kick and I figured I should share tips to upcoming brides. I am by no means a fitness expert, just love to pass on great advice! Hope it helps!

The most important thing is to EAT HEALTHY! I know those cheese fries and Chick-Fil-A chicken biscuits looks amazing, but in the long wrong choosing the fruit and grilled chicken salad will pay off. Trust me.

 

• Asparagus:  Cooking up this veggie is a delicious and healthy snack, not just because it detoxifies the liver, but also because it helps your body to flush out all impurities. I love asparagus grilled or steamed, and eating it raw will help reduce bloating in your belly too!

• Apples: This fruit is filling, satisfying and it can help suppress unhealthy cravings. If you are craving sugary foods,  grab an apple. Green apples are especially good for decreasing appetite.

• Green Smoothie: While a large smoothie can be so filling that it becomes an entire meal (think breakfast), a smaller size smoothie is the perfect mid-meal snack. Blend up a smoothie that is about 1-½ cups, and be sure to include a leafy green like spinach or kale, chia seeds, lemon, and apple or pineapple.

• Homemade Trail Mix: A lot of trail mixes have sugary sweets like candy or chocolate included in the mix, making them less healthy option. But a homemade version could be just the kind of healthy snack that keeps your body energized. I recommend mixing pistachios, almonds, dried cranberries, and hemp seeds, which are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, zinc, iron, potassium, and calcium. I also like to add dried goji berries, which are powerful antioxidants that are rich in Vitamin A.

• Watermelon: Health experts claim that watermelon helps your liver and kidneys flush out impurities. Watermelon tea can do the trick too!

• Pineapple: Pineapples are known for their abilities to cleanse the pores in your lungs and reduce stomach fat. Eat a few chunks of this sweet fruit on an empty stomach to reap the benefits of its powerful enzymes.

• Chia Fresca: This drink is supposed to aid in detoxification in the body…especially the morning after a fun night out. Simply soak half a tablespoon of chia seeds in a glass of water for 10 minutes, then add a squirt of lime. Refreshing.

• Grapefruit: Grapefruit also helps to curb hunger, but it doesn’t stop there. This citrus fruit boosts your metabolism and packs in a ton of vitamin C and giving your skin a glow.

• Celery: Celery is a great source of fiber, which means it can help move food through your digestive tract. Grab a few celery sticks and peanut butter for a heart-healthy snack that will leave you full and satisfied.

• Avocados: Aside from lowering cholesterol, avocados contain a nutrient called glutathione, which blocks at least 30 different carcinogens while helping the liver detoxify synthetic chemicals. Add some of this green goodness to your smoothies or salads.

 

My absolute favorite thing to make are green smoothies. Looks weird, tastes amazing!

 

On top of eating healthy, you MUST do some sort of activity that keeps your heart rate up. This can range from walking, jogging, biking, hiking to pretty much anything you can think of. Get creative!

 

Try to do about 30 minutes of cardio 4-5 times a week and weights 2-3 times a week. Make sure to take a day off to REST! Your body will need it!

 

 

Check out this great YouTube channel for even MORE workout tips!

 

 

 

Birmingham's First "Not Wedding"

I work in the wedding industry and I just heard about this so I am guessing I have been living under a rock. This looks amazingly fun! It is such a great way to think outside the box when it comes to bridal fairs. The event is called the "Not Wedding".

 

 

Basically the "guests" at the event are the brides-to-be. The event is a mock wedding from the ceremony all the way to the reception. And guess what, the vendors are the ones who actually put on the wedding. So these brides who come as guests are seeing the photographer, videographer, caterer, etc. work their magic as though it was a REAL wedding. Genius!

 

The website for the Not Wedding explains:

  

    "Complete with dinner and drinks, an emotional ceremony and a dance-party reception, The Not Wedding has become a killer alternative to a bridal show. The hand-selected vendors perform their services as they would at a real wedding, and the 'wedding guests' get to hear the music, taste the cakes, and smell the flowers… while enjoying a night of great food, dancing and surprises, leaving brides-to-be saying 'I want my wedding to be just like that!'.

For brides and grooms, the event serves as a source of inspiration, a resource in finding trusted wedding vendors and an emotional reminder to plan for what comes after the wedding: a marriage! For participating wedding vendors, the event exposes their business to new referral sources, while also exposing each vendor to a wealth of inspiration, resources and confidence to take their business to the next level."

 

Well, I am so excited to find out that my hometown is hosting a Not Wedding on March 19th! Less than a month away! This would be a great opportunity to truly see wedding vendors at work!

 

You do not want to miss this wonderful event!