NEWS FEED: Special Offers in Luxury Weddings and Honeymoons

/// FRIDAY, MAY 18, 2012 MANDARIN ORIENTAL, LAS VEGAS

If you’re thinking of heading to Las Vegas for your honeymoon, “Suite Temptations” at the Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas might just seal the deal with this special offer. Ring in your new marriage with a complimentary fourth-night stay in a luxurious suite, daily continental breakfast for two at MOzen Bistro, a $100 spa credit, and a special VIP welcome. Your romantic rendezvous can include all the lavish qualities that Vegas has to offer, but still allow for privacy and space, away from the hustle and bustle of typical Las Vegas hotels. Mandarin Oriental prides itself on its non-gaming property, which allows for a complete focus on the amorous details of the romantic hideaway.

The luxury hotel prominently located at the entrance of CityCenter, a magnificent urban resort destination at the heart of the Las Vegas strip. Awarded the esteemed AAA five-diamond award rating and the coveted Forbes five-star award, the Mandarin Oriental provides lavish amenities, spectacular accommodations, a relaxing spa, fine dining, and legendary service all steps away from some of the city’s most renowned casinos, shopping, and entertainment.

Mandarin Oriental provides the perfect retreat, where you can recharge in sophisticated comfort before venturing out for more Vegas-style fun!

Rates from $425, depending on time of travel. For reservations, call 888.881.9578 or visit http://www.mandarinoriental.com/lasvegas/.

THURSDAY, MAY 17, 2012 SUITE AT THE MERITAGE RESORT & SPA

If luxury, relaxation, fun, and vino are what you think of when you picture your honeymoon, then the Meritage Resort and Spa may be the right fit for you and your honey. Set against a private vineyard in Napa Valley, CA, the resort recently completed an expansion to the tune of $40 million dollars. Already the largest resort in Napa Valley, the Meritage Resort and Spa now offer more guest rooms and suites, dining options, and new entertainment.

Even better, the resort boasts North America’s first underground, full-service spa; full-service restaurant; a vineyard and underground tasting room. Crush Ultra Lounge features a bowling alley, pool tables, sports entertainment, and cocktails in addition to a cozy lounge area with fireplace.

If you’re considering a destination wedding, the voluminous ballrooms offer lovely décor details. Two covered outdoor terraces are also available and feature a spa, croquet lawn, and romantic fireplace.

The Meritage Resort
The Meritage Resort and Spa is an extraordinary Napa Valley luxury resort set against a private vineyard. A destination unto itself, it features 322 Tuscan-inspired guestrooms and luxury suites, seasonal farm-to-table cuisine in Siena restaurant and wine tasting in the Estate Cave featuring Trinitas Cellars. Regain a healthful balance with curative treatments at Spa Terra – a lavish underground Napa luxury spa with steam grottos, soaking pools, treatment alcoves and tranquil walls of water. The resort boasts two large ballrooms, the Estate Cave, and lovely covered terraces. Crush Ultra Lounge offers guests a chance to relax with a full bar, sports entertainment, and six luxury bowling lanes. Far more than a place for expert relaxation, the unique property is an escape from the ordinary.

For more information and room rates, please visit http://www.themeritageresort.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2012 ENJOY THE PERKS OF A PRIVATE VILLA ALONG THE COAST OF MEXICO

Casa Colina, a luxurious villa along Mexico's beautiful Pacific Coast, offers all the lavish amenities of a resort with the added bonus of absolute privacy. Located on Isla Navidad, Mexico, the private estate is ideal for a honeymoon escape, an indulgent girls getaway, or an intimate destination wedding.


Six spacious and impeccably designed guestrooms that include furnished junior and master suites are available so that several of your loved ones can stay at the villa at one time. Perfect for a destination wedding! Guests can also enjoy specially prepared meals cooked by the villa’s private chef, including lunches served poolside, sunset cocktail hours, and family-style meals.

Romance awaits newlyweds with a “top-of-the-world” palapa, a custom-built Estrella chandelier, 250-degree views of the mountains and ocean, and a lagoon-view lounge with a cathedral ceiling.

Visitors of the villa also have access to the Isla Navidad Grand Bay Resort’s golf, tennis, horseback riding, and water sport activities. Couples can also work up a sweat by visiting the ancient Colima volano or on a tour of the beaches in Barra de Navidad and Playa la Audiencia on Santiago Peninsula.

Casa Colina is currently offering numerous specials, and rates vary depending on travel time. Visit http://casacolinamexico.com or call 312.961.3280 for more information.

About Casa Colina

Casa Colina is luxurious private villa located along Mexico’s Pacific Coast between Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco. The intimate, upscale experience at Casa Colina includes six suites with ocean and mountain views; a private chef and staff; and indoor and outdoor elegant private dining areas with cathedral ceilings, fireplaces, and private bar space. Considered one of Mexico’s most stunning private villas, Casa Colina’s closest airports include regular domestic flights from Guadalajara (30 minutes) and Mexico City (50 minutes), and Playa de Oro International Airport is just 25 minutes away.

TUESDAY, MAY 15, 2012 PALAZZO SASSO

Visit Palazzo Sasso and experience the ultimate honeymoon excursion that includes a culinary journey that is as unique as your love. Nestled on the coast of Almalfi, Palazzo Sasso is offering guests wine tasting in Tramonti, where newlyweds can discover the rich viniculture of the family-owned historical estate and vineyard, private visits to a wine cellar that dates to the 1700s, and a gourmet lunch paired with complementary vinos.

Next on the agenda, a visit to the Vannulo Mozzarella Factory, which the Palmieri family has owned for three generations. This organic free-range farm produces some of the world’s best natural buffalo mozzarella cheese. After satisfying your taste buds, travel to the nearby Paestum Archaeological Site that was founded by Greeks, where you can experience the amazingly preserved Greco-Roman architecture to include three magnificent Doric temples, a Roman forum, and an Amphitheatre.

You and your loved one will also indulge in two exclusive cooking classes, in which you will pick produce from an organic garden, learn culinary techniques, and prepare a four-course meal which you can enjoy while dining on a terrace by the sea.

Prices vary by season. For reservations, please visit www.palazzosasso.com.

About Palazzo Sasso
Perched on the cliffs of Ravello overlooking the Amalfi Coast and Mediterranean Sea, Palazzo Sasso commands one of the most extraordinary views in the world.  For over ten years, Sasso has enjoyed treating guests to the best and most luxurious hotel experience in one of the most breathtaking spots on the globe.  Expansive vistas of the nearby Mediterranean are abundant from the grounds of Palazzo Sasso and in recent years, the luxury hotel was pleased to bring the seaside experience directly to guests by introducing the newest amenity in the resort’s arsenal of pampering extras, Sasso by the Sea.

MONDAY, MAY 14, 2012 FEED YOUR SOUL AT SUBLIME SAMANA

With summer approaching, relax and rejuvenate while enjoying an exotic, first-of-its-kind river massage, unlock your creative potential during professional art classes with local artists or discover your inner chef during an authentic culinary immersion. Three boutique properties in Latin America are offering an alternative to traditional getaways with new, spirit-enhancing retreats that focus on personal growth.

Shifting focus to the self, these three packages are expertly designed to indulge the senses in luxurious environments of serenity and cultural celebration and are ideal for couples that want a unique honeymoon escape.

River Rejuvenation and Relaxation
Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge – Barahona, Dominican Republic
Unwind in a hidden natural paradise perched at the base of the Barahuco Mountains, as you treat yourself to Casa Bonita’s unprecedented nature-centric “River Rejuvenation & Relaxation” package, available only through October 31, 2012.

The five-day, four-night package includes a Signature River spa treatment, a romantic seaside dinner, and an excursion to Villa Miriam, a private house with a waterfall that is channeled to form several pools and whose cold waters promise to relax the body and refresh the soul.

Rates are based on double occupancy, and include daily breakfast, welcome cocktails, late-checkout, and transfer to and from the airport in Santo Domingo. Rates start at $1,169. For further info visit casabonitadr.com or call 800.961.5133.

Artistic Awakening
Hotel Guaycura – Todos Santos, Mexico
Discover Mexico’s best-kept secret and immerse yourself in the culturally inspiring, artist enclave of Todos Santos as you enjoy Hotel Guaycura’s new “Artistic Awakening” package, available only through October 31, 2012.

The four-day, three-night package includes art class for two featuring the guidance of a master in the hotel’s art studio; and a historic town tour where you can discover Mexico’s cultural riches and historical beauty. Perfect for a pair that delights in creativity!

Rates are based on double occupancy, and include daily breakfast and accommodations in a classic room. Rates start at $715. For more information, visit guaycura.com.mx or call 800.468.6039.

Feed the Soul
Sublime Samana Hotel & Residences – Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic
Refresh on the Dominican Republic’s most pristine shore, as you delight in the culinary wonders of brand new, Sublime Samana’s “Feed the Soul” package, available only through October 31, 2012.

The five-day, four-night package includes a tantalizing cooking class and tasting-menu dinner filled with culturally inspired tapas, ceviches, and fresh fish.

Rates are based on double occupancy, and include accommodations in a one-bedroom suite, daily breakfast including one in-room prep, welcome cocktails and airport transfer. Rates start at $1,309. For further information, visit sublimesamana.com or call 888.896-9416.

THURSDAY, MAY 10, 2012 ROMANCE IN ANTIGUA

Celebrate togetherness in tropical paradise with the new Together Package at Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort. Occupying a 300-acre private island off the coast of Antigua in the West Indies, the inclusive resort is a lovely spot to make the most of companionship, with complimentary water sports, two resort pools, three tennis courts, bicycles, fitness center, croquet lawn and putting green. Guests can also pamper themselves with exclusive “Indulgence” offerings from sunrise couples massages to moonlight rum tastings.

Through mid-December 2012, the "Together Package" includes:
-Seven nights in a Beachside Courtyard Suite or Pool Suite
-Roundtrip private airport and ferry transfers
-Welcome wine, cheese, and fruit upon arrival
-Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and beverages, cocktails, and house wines by the glass
-Afternoon Tea
-Romantic turn-down one evening with fresh flowers, candles, and Champagne
-Couples sunset massage (one hour each)
-One Private Beach Dinner for two
-One two-hour photo session with professional photographer for romantic portraits at Jumby Bay (must be booked in advance)
-$100 Resort Gift Shop Credit

Together Package rates from $10,500 based on double occupancy per bedroom for seven nights. For more information or reservations please contact 888.ROSEWOOD or visit jumbybayresort.com.

About Jumby Bay:
Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort is an inclusive luxury retreat set on its own enchanting 300-acre private island two miles off the coast of Antigua in the West Indies. Accessible only by boat, the resort offers upscale travelers a relaxed and authentic Caribbean escape with superb white-sand beaches and lush tropical surroundings. The ultra-luxe hideaway's $28 million resort-wide transformation introduced its first-ever Sense, A Rosewood Spa®, 28 new spacious suites and fully enhanced accommodations, new open-air veranda, bistro-style restaurant, and new multi-million dollar Estate Homes with private pools, tennis courts, and full access to the many amenities of Jumby Bay. For active travelers, Jumby Bay offers water sports, tennis, hiking and biking trails, a fitness center and a new oceanfront infinity pool. In 2012, Jumby Bay ranked among the "Top 25 Caribbean Resorts" on Condé Nast Traveler's Reader's Choice Awards and was included on Travel + Leisure's Top 500 World's Best Awards. The resort was also awarded the 2012 Grand Award by Andrew Harper's Hideaway Report.

FRIDAY, MAY 4, 2012 HONEYMOON IN ST LUCIA

Looking for a honeymoon experience that focuses on overall well-being? The BodyHoliday LeSport may be the perfect sanctuary for you and your newly minted spouse. Set on a private cove on the north west of the island, this all-inclusive resort is one of the foremost luxury hotels in St Lucia. The friendly staff offers guidance on creating an itinerary truly your own, which can include a variety of relaxing therapies or energizing activities. Extra special touches – such as helicopter rides from the airport, candlelit dinner on the beach, and sparkling wine at arrival – can also be arranged. luxury hotel in St. Lucia was created to ensure that guests leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and recharged. 

Posh accommodations include ocean-front suites that provide a panoramic view of the transparent blue waters surrounding the lavish getaway. The award-winning Wellness Centre concentrates on Ayurvedic treatments and holistic therapies, in addition to the inclusive treatments that range from a Lucian Lime and Ginger Body Scrub to a Serenity Massage. Archery, scuba diving, and spinning are just some of the many heart-racing activities couples can partake in if they decide on a more active retreat. A variety of eateries are available to guests, who can count on fresh and artful cuisine, using locally grown products.  luxury hotel in St. Lucia was created to ensure that guests leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and recharged. 

About The BodyHoliday LeSport This luxury resort hotel offers superb facilities, service, and cuisine. The Wellness Centre has been voted one of the best spa resorts in the Caribbean and TAO restaurant was voted by Condé Nast as one of the top 60 tables in the world. Based on the four key pillars of relaxation, restorative beauty, exercise and good diet, this all-inclusive luxury hotel in St. Lucia was created to ensure that guests leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and recharged. For more details visit their website thebodyholiday.com

WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 2012 HONEYMOON IN THE BAHAMAS

Kamalame Cay – a luxury resort nestled on a private island in the Bahamas – is proud to offer a sweet deal for newlyweds this June. The Guest of House Honeymoon package (available June 1-30, 2012) includes a five-night stay for two people, as well as extravagant details such as a complimentary room upgrade, a 60-minute Kamalame Massage at the overwater spa, and an indulgent bath butler service.

The scenic surroundings offer twosomes a honeymoon escape with relaxed elegance natural beauty, and romantic isolated villas overlooking a long stretch of sugary-sandy beach. Couples can find themselves idle away languid afternoons in a palm-shaded hammock, explore miles of deserted beach, or frolic in the warm, turquoise ocean.

Enjoy gourmet dinners by candlelight in the dining room of the Great House, intimate in-room feasts for two, or dine seaside on the isolated beach illuminated by fiery torches. Made-to-order picnic lunches with chilled sparkling wine and fresh Bahamian cuisine are also available for your noshing needs.

Couples can also partake in more lively adventures like tennis, beach-combing, or kayaking in the transparent shallows of coral gardens and sea life that surround Kamalame. Edged by a great barrier reef, the idyllic tropical escape is a world-renowned haven for diving, fishing and snorkeling.

Explore Kamalame’s flowering jungle, mangrove fields, and untouched coastline on your honeymoon retreat. Visit kamalame.com for more details or contact the reservations desk at 800.790.7971.

MONDAY, APRIL 30, 2012 A GOURMET OPPORTUNITY TO FOODIE HONEYMOONERS

Hotel Fierro, a getaway for gourmands in Buenos Aires, is pleased to announce an especially tempting new value for newlyweds seeking a culinary adventure on their honeymoon added offering - The GourmandAway In BA.  Book three nights or more between now and August 30 will be treated to their choice of a complimentary nine course tasting menu for lunch or dinner at Hernán Gipponi (beverages and optional wine pairing not included). The restaurant is a refreshing departure from the typical hotel dining experience and features exceptionally crafted modern twists on Mediterranean cuisine. There are weekly wine tastings held in The Cellar, a special underground tasting area showcasing some of the country’s most interesting wines. Optionally wine-paired dinners can also be arranged in The Cellar for up to eight people.

About The Fierro
The 27-room Fierro Hotel is in the buzzing Palermo Hollywood district as the city’s newest chic boutique hotel with seamlessly intuitive personalized service, rich décor and a contemporary hip-meets-classic design making it the ideal for leisure travelers. With modern amenities and state-of-the-art technology, The Fierro also houses a private collection of original artworks specially commissioned to reflect the hotel’s unique personality.  Rates for the three night package start at US $170 per night for a superior room and US $206 per night for a balcony suite*.  Rates do not include VAT (21%). Reservations can be made by calling +54-11-3220-6800 or via fierrohotel.com Please mention the GourmandAWAY IN BA package.

*Rates are subject to availability and do not include VAT (21%).

FRIDAY APRIL 27, 2012 BEACHFRONT RESORT OPTION FOR SOCAL WEDDING AND EVENTS

Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort in Newport Beach, CA is a perfect option for rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, vow renewal ceremonies and weddings. Among the services and amenities are a lushly landscaped gazebo area overlooking the water, massive waterfront tent for extra large occasions, in-house catering department, and a bayside restaurant.

Weddings may be planned for parties of 10 to 2,000. Catering options range from tray-passed hors d’oeuvres and buffet packages (starting at $23 per person) to all-inclusive, fully catered occasions including service (from $102.50 per person). A Wedding Planner, Hosted/Cash Bars, vendor recommendations and on-site accommodations are available as well.

 Rehearsal Dinners/Parties range from $25 to $39, depending on food and/or alcohol selections.

To schedule an appointment with Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort’s special event/catering division or for more information, call (949) 729-3800 or visit the website : newportdunesspecialevents.com.

THURSDAY APRIL 26, 2012

Wedding Packages

DESTINATION WEDDING OPTIONS IN FRENCH POLYNESIA

The Bora Bora Nui & The Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa, are offering A La Carte Wedding Menus to celebrate the legalization of weddings for non-French nationals in Tahiti & her islands. Now, couples can have the wedding of their dreams – weather it be a traditional white wedding at the Bora Bora Nui’s hillside chapel or an exotic Polynesian ceremony on the sand – in a romantic paradise.

Sample wedding options include:
*Traditional wedding ceremonies - tiered cake, flower bouquets and petal pathways – performed in the resort’s hilltop chapels
* Exotic Polynesian wedding ceremonies -- priest, a group of dancers and musicians, tropical flower arrangements, leis, crowns and a wedding certificate made of traditional “tapa.”
*Professional hair & make up services
*Amenities for receptions including musicians, wines & champagnes, photographers, and dining options including fresh Polynesian cuisine
*Gorgeous reception spaces -- six different locations at each resort
* Assistance from Wedding Concierge

Find out more about the wedding options at both hotels by visiting: hilton.com/frenchpolynesia.

WEDNESAY APRIL 25, 2012

Proposal Package

POP THE QUESTION AT A ROMANTIC CARIBBEAN RESORT

Located on one of the ten best beaches in the world, The Somerset on Grace Bay in Turks & Caicos is a sophisticated Caribbean resort and the perfect destination for romantic marriage proposals. The resort now has a dedicated Proposal Concierge, Lachelle Handfield, to help would-be grooms plan and personalize their unforgettable engagement stories - from a scuba diving adventure to a romantic beach dinner.

As of April 8, rates start at $650 per night, based on double occupancy, for a 1,400 sq. ft. one-bedroom Garden View Villa and include continental breakfast, complimentary use of water sports equipment, and more. For more information about creating the perfect proposal or to make a reservation please visit thesomerset.com or call 877-887-5722.

TUESDAY APRIL 24, 2012

Wedding Packages

PLAN THE SOUTHERN WEDDING OF YOUR DREAMS

From intimate, candlelit affairs to breathtaking celebrations, Augusta, Georgia’s Partridge Inn guarantees the wedding of a lifetime with its impeccable southern hospitality, luxurious accommodations, award-winning dining, personalized service, and beautiful designed wedding spaces.

The Partridge Inn, which opened in 1892, features 145 updated guest rooms, luxurious venue spaces for nuptials, and more than a quarter mile of verandahs and wrap-around balconies. Key features of the hotel that are ideal for weddings include:

* Multiple event spaces with private verandahs including the Morris Partridge Ballroom, site of the 1923 Presidential Banquet for Warren Harding.
* Expert event planners, helping brides and grooms create memorable receptions.
* Award-winning catering and cuisine
* Special discounted guest room rates for wedding guests.

For more information on The Partridge Inn and its lavish southern-style weddings, visit the inn’s Web site at partridgeinn.com or call 1-800-476-6888.

MONDAY APRIL 23, 2012

Honeymoon Packages

HONEYMOONS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE

GoVoluntouring challenges brides and grooms-to-be to think beyond the beach when it comes to modern travel vacations. Whether it’s helping a community in need, or protecting endangered species, volunteer vacations make for a memorable and meaningful honeymoon alternative.

Sample vacation experiences include: working with children in Cambodia, volunteering with lion cubs about to be released into the wild in Africa, home building in Uganda, monitoring sea turtles and hatchlings in the Grenadine Archipelago, and more.

With thousands of programs to choose from, GoVoluntouring offers pre-checked charities and non-profits the chance to connect with the volunteers they desperately need, with no added cost to the user or the volunteer organization. Prices vary depending on trip and do not include airfare, insurance or visas. For more information visit govoluntouring.com.

THURSDAY APRIL 19, 2012

Wedding Packages

BEACHFRONT FLORIDA HOTEL OFFERING DISCOUNT FOR SUMMER WEDDINGS

Highland Beach Holiday Inn is located in Highland Beach, Florida (near Boca Raton), a small town surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Intra Coastal Waterway. The property boasts an abundance of beach; 115 newly renovated guest rooms, including one-bedroom suites; full-service restaurant; and spectacular views. Located less than an hour from three international airports and minutes from the I-95 – it is easily accessible for out-of-town guests and locals alike.

The hotel has function spaces that can accommodate between 60 and 100 guests and is offering wedding packages that start at $105.00 per person. From June through September 2012, the property will offer a 10 percent discount on the Wedding Package of your choice (available for new bookings only). Packages include a four-hour reception, cocktail hour, unlimited hors d'oeuvres, Champagne toast, choice between three-course served dinner or lavish buffet, three-tier wedding cake, wine service, and unlimited bar. Visit highlandbeachholidayinn.com for more information.

WEDNESDAY APRIL 18, 2012

Honeymoon

SUMMER SAVINGS ON THE RANCH AT BISHOP’S LODGE RANCH RESORT & SPA

Bishop’s Lodge Ranch Resort & Spa, Santa Fe, New Mexico’s only authentic ranch resort, offers a genuine Southwestern experience minutes from downtown, perfect for honeymooners seeking a balance between nature and urban exploration.

Nestled at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Bishop’s Lodge Ranch Resort & Spa presents a number of adventurous on-site amenities including the resort stables, where guests can experience 450 acres of spectacular alpine scenery on horseback. They also have an award-winning spa, and a number of delicious on-site dining options.

Guests staying at the resort during summer months enjoy special summer rates on Santa Fe style accommodations starting at $179 per night through August. To make a reservation, visit bishopslodge.com or call 800-732-2240.

TUESDAY APRIL 17, 2012

Honeymoon Packages

MINI-MOONS THAT PACK ALL THE FUN AND ROMANCE OF A TRADITIONAL HONEYMOON

Specifically aimed at busy newlyweds, these short and sweet romantic packages are just what the doctor ordered. Here are some mini-moon getaways ideal for couples who can’t embark on their official honeymoon right away, but who nevertheless crave a bit of an escape following the wedding:

*The Whistler Mini-Moon Package includes 3-nights in a deluxe room at the Aava Hotel, a couples massage at the Scandinave, and ATV Waffle Tour with Canadian Snowmobile. Rates start at $423 CAD per person, and the package is bookable all summer season, from May 1 – October 31, 2012. Visit enjoywhistler.com or call 1-888-882-8858 for more information.

*The Banff Mini-Moon Package, which includes a 3-night stay in a 4.5 star hotel, a 25-minute helicopter tour and hot spring passes for two. Rates start at $671 CAD per person, packages are available all summer season, from May 21 – September 4, 2012. Visit enjoybanff.com or call 1-888-313-6161 for more information.

*The Turks and Caicos Mini-Moon Package includes, 3-nights at a 5 star hotel, a couples massage, and candlelit dinner for two. Rates start at $979 USD per person, valid all season, from May 1 – December 19, 2012. Visit myturksandcaicos.com or call 1-877-468-8757 for more information.

MONDAY APRIL 16, 2012

Wedding Package

HOST A DREAM WEDDING AT HOLMAN RANCH

Holman Ranch, in Carmel Valley, California is an historic property surrounded by romantic vineyards and rolling mountains, and offers unlimited possibilities for weddings, engagements, anniversaries, rehearsal dinners, and other occasions.

The property specializes in weekend to week-long wedding retreats that feature unique event spaces and one-of-a-kind affairs. Wedding packages include:

* Carpe Diem Wedding Package: a one-day (nine hour) event.
* The Grand Estate: 6 nights/7 days
* Intimate Elopement: A personal celebration for two
*The Wedding Retreat: 2-night/3-day package
*The Wedding Vacation: 4 nights/5 days

Newlyweds will receive a commemorative wood plank inscribed with their name and wedding date. Customizable options available for each package. Visit holmanranch.com for more information and pricing.

FRIDAY APRIL 13, 2012 WEDDING PACKAGE IN FRENCH POLYNESIA

With the recent passing of legal civil service ceremonies in French Polynesia, the St. Regis Bora Bora gives guests the opportunity to say “I do” amidst a tropical island setting. The Island Simplicity Wedding Package lets the Resort handle all the work, and lets couples have all the fun!

Custom tailored to meet couples’ needs and desires, the package features four-nights accommodations in a deluxe overwater villa, 24/7 St. Regis Butler service, and personalized assistance from the Resort’s on-site wedding planner who can arrange the civil and blessing ceremonies, wedding photography, and food and beverage amenities at the reception. Additional amenities can include heartfelt vows at sunset, fragrant Tiare flowers, and French champagne sabered by a St. Regis Butler, fireworks, and much more.

Starting at $8,150 USD (based on double occupancy), couples can book from now until March 31, 2013 and includes daily breakfast for two and rejuvenating couples spa treatments. Package is subject to a specific wedding contract and conditions. Visit starwoodhotels.com/stregis/property/overview

WEDNESDAY APRIL 11, 2012 SANDALS RESORTS OFFERS INTERACTIVE WEDDING PLANNING

Sandals Resorts is offering a new Online Destination Wedding Designer. This interactive tool helps couples personalize every aspect of their special day and ultimately create the ceremony of their dreams. With four steps couples can browse more than 7,000 wedding elements including everything from bouquets arrangements and boutonnieres to reception décor and wedding favors as well as photography and videography packages.

1. Select Your Destination: Jamaica, Antigua, St. Lucia or The Bahamas.
2. Choose Your Style: From a custom wedding built from scratch to a pre-designed wedding theme, Sandals ensures that every bride’s needs are met.
3. Customize Your Wedding: Including color palettes, bouquets and boutonnieres, cakes, ceremony and reception décor, music, food and beverage packages and more. Each wedding also includes a personal pre-planning wedding consultant, pre-recorded musical accompaniment and marriage officiate.
4. Share Your Wedding with Friends and Family - Sharing every aspect of your wedding at a click of the mouse to Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and even your own blog.
5. Consult with a Sandals wedding planner to finalize.

An exclusive $500 wedding credit is available now online. Visit sandals.com/weddingmoons/weddings/wedding-designer.cfm.

TUESDAY APRIL 10, 2012 A BARCELONA HONEYMOON THAT TAKES DINING TO NEW HEIGHTS

A new program has been launched at Hotel Arts Barcelona that is ideal for foodie couples on their honeymoon.

The property has just introduced Michelin-Starred Restaurant Helicopter as an additional way to offer guests staying in the Arts Suite exclusive access to some of Catalonia’s finest restaurants. A five-minute transfer from the hotel to the Cathelicopters heliport is followed by a short journey by VIP helicopter for a lunch reservation and return. Guests have the option of choosing from an array of award-winning, sought-after restaurants.

Reservations are required. Rates for the Arts Suite start at 7,000€ per night. The additional exclusive Michelin-Starred Restaurant Helicopter offering is available for minimum of two people and a maximum of four. Cost is 4,000€ per couple. One week advanced reservations preferred. For more information, visit hotelartsbarcelona.com.

FRIDAY APRIL 6, 2012 AN HOLISTIC AND EXOTIC HONEYMOON EXPERIENCE

Kinondo Kwetu in Diani, Kenya -- a member of Cheli & Peacock’s portfolio of small, eco-active, owner-run Kenyan properties -- offers exclusive Yoga weeks several times a year, perfect for newlyweds seeking an holistic honeymoon experience to restore health and well-being after the wedding festivities.

Beyond yoga classes by masters from around the world, a special menu has been created with cuisine designed to detoxify and revitalize. During the week, participants can indulge in massages and beauty treatments or relax in a genuine Swedish wood-fired sauna. For the exercise-minded, there are two swimming pools, tennis courts and a small work out area overlooking the sea.

Kinondo Kwetu, is an all-inclusive resort set on Kenya’s Indian Ocean south coast with beautiful reefs that boast a generous variety of marine life, including angel fish, parrot fish, dolphins, turtles, and even whale sharks. For more information: info@chelipeacock.co.ke or visit: kinondo-kwetu.com.

THRUSDAY APRIL 5, 2012 A 12/12/12 WEDDING PACKAGE AT JUMBY BAY, A ROSEWOOD RESORT

The luckiest wedding day of the year is just nine months away, so there's no time to waste booking your 12/12/12 nuptials. The award-winning Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort in Antiqua is offering guests the ultimate wedding fantasy with the Once in a Lifetime wedding package proposing a complete buyout of the inclusive private island resort that ensures your date and event are unforgettable.

Highlights of the wedding package include:
* Three nights accommodations including the night of December 12, 2012
* 40 rooms and suites (for up to 80 guests)
* Round-trip airport transfers
* Welcome culinary amenity for each room/suite
* Breakfast, lunch, dinner, beverages, cocktails and house wine by the glass
* Welcome "White Night" beach dinner
* Dedicated Guest Services Manager to assist with wedding arrangements
* Personal assistance in obtaining marriage license and interview at Ministry of Legal Affairs in St. John's
* Marriage license and Officer fees
* Location for wedding ceremony
* Cocktail hour and wedding reception/dinner at The Estate House
* Petits fours, cake and printed dinner menus
* Three hours of live music (wedding reception)
*12 Months of Jumby - signature monthly gift to the wedding couple during their first year of marriage

Once in a Lifetime package rates start at $230,000 for a three-night wedding event for up to 80 persons (40 rooms), plus 22.5% Government tax and service (pre and post minimum stays will apply). Additional services are available at additional cost. Rates for 20 rooms/up to 40 guests for three nights starting at $115,000 plus 22.5% Government tax and service. For more information or reservations please contact 888-ROSEWOOD or visit jumbybayresort.com.

WEDNESDAY APRIL 4, 2012 BIGGEST LOSER RESORTS TRANSFORM COUPLES FOR THE WEDDING DAY

Biggest Loser Resorts are offering tailored fitness and nutrition programs designed to help brides and grooms look their best for their wedding day. Choose from two Biggest Loser resort locations: Malibu, California and Ivins, Utah. In addition, a third property will be opening in May in Niagara, New York.

Biggest Loser Resorts offer a wide variety of activities to keep participants challenged and motivated, highly-skilled professional trainers and instructors, multiple group-style workout sessions, indoor and outdoor activities, and more. Meals are carefully created by an Executive Chef and Registered Dietitians to ensure proper portion and calorie limit required for optimal results.

In addition, brides and grooms will learn a structured program to take home to continue improving their body for their wedding day and beyond. The resorts are also appropriate for a healthy bachelorette or bachelor party. Brides and grooms to be can bring their wedding parties to relax and get fit in a fun and supportive environment. For reservations and pricing information, call 1-866-918-0996.

MONDAY APRIL 2, 2012 THE COTTON HOUSE ON MUSTIQUE ISLAND

Mustique, the luxury 1,400-acre private island in the Grenadines, offers couples private beaches, romantic sunsets, and personalized service for a truly memorable Caribbean event. Couples can say “I do” and/or honeymoon at The Cotton House, the only resort on the island that is an elegant West Indian-style plantation estate with 17 luxurious guest rooms, cottages and suites—11 of which feature private plunge pools (perfect for honeymooners).

The Wedding package:
* Assistance with all legal details including obtaining a marriage license.
* Bouquet for bride and boutonniere for the groom
* One-tier wedding cake
* Champagne for toasting with a selection of hot and cold appetizers
* Personalized dinner created by the Executive Chef.
* Private sunset cruise with canapés and champagne
* Spa treatments prior to the ceremony
* Couple’s air travel to St. Vincent and more
Rates start at $4,400 with all taxes and service charges included.

The honeymoon package includes:
* 7-night stay minimum
* Daily breakfast in-room or at Veranda
* Daily 3-course dinner (excluding beverages)
* One 60-minute massage at The Cotton House spa per person
* One-day golf cart rental to explore the island
* Snorkeling equipment
Rates start at $781/night in low season (taxes & service included). For more information on either package, visit cottonhouse.net.