profiles - Nxtbook Media
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profiles - Nxtbook Media
W E D DI NG S by Love on Maui Beautiful Table Sweet Treats Charming Gifts YO U R D R E A M S . O U R P L E A S U R E . JANUARY – JUNE 2012 N ATA L I E K FAC EB O O K . C O M / N ATA L I E K J L RY F OR @ N ATA L I E K J L RY R ETA I L ER S N E A R YO U V I S I T NATA L I E K . C O M O R CA L L 1 . 8 0 0 .6 8 8 . 6 1 0 1 VISIT VERAWANG.COM OR WILLIAMARTHUR.COM TO SEE MORE WEDDING STATIONERY OR TO LOCATE A DEALER NEAR YOU NYC NYC New York . Los Angeles . Miami A L I TA GRAHAM Exclusively at Kleinfeld ® 110 West 20th Street, New York KleinfeldBridal.com AlitaGraham.com ©2012 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. The RiTz-CaRlTon hoTel Company, l.l.C. editor in Chief Jamie Hoffman • [email protected] mCmuRRy inC. Vp/Strategic Content • Beth Tomkiw • [email protected] Creative Director • Lisa Altomare • [email protected] managing Content editor • Kat Johnson art Directors • Tamara Kopper, Caroline Jackson Contributors • Tanvi Chheda, Renee Schettler, Brooke Showell, Erica Sigel, John Tomkiw, Jennifer Tzeses Vp/production • Dan Brenner imaging Specialist • Dane Nordine Senior production manager • Nicole Dean production Technology Specialist • Julie Chan Vp/Business intelligence Group • Patrick Kehoe postal affairs & logistics Director • Joseph Abeyta president/Content marketing Fred Petrovsky • [email protected] publisher • Tracie McLaughlin [email protected] • 888-626-8779 advertising Sales Director • Marisa Zappaterreno [email protected] • 888-626-8779 executive assistant • Melissa Smith [email protected] • 888-626-8779 luxury ad Sales Specialists Suzanne aiello • [email protected] Charlotte, Washington, D.C., New York, Toronto heidi Bressler • [email protected] Amelia Island, Dallas, New York, Palm Beach, Philadelphia Sheryl Cook • [email protected] Cancún, Caribbean, Naples, San Juan, Sarasota Stephanie Ducharme • [email protected] Cleveland, New Orleans, St. Louis Elizabeth St John Collections Bridal | Evening | Children lydia lee • [email protected] China Theresa monaco • [email protected] Atlanta, Coconut Grove, Key Biscayne, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, South Beach elizabeth Rawson • [email protected] Boston, California, Colorado, Jamaica, Kapalua, Phoenix Custom media inquiries Chad Rose • [email protected] • 888-626-8779 Weddings by The Ritz-Carlton magazine is published twice a year by McMurry Inc. for distribution in all Ritz-Carlton guest rooms worldwide. Weddings by The Ritz-Carlton magazine will not assume any liability or responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies or any other materials. © 2012 McMurry, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the United States. All prices in editorial matter are expressed as U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted. www.ElizabethStJohn.com Ritz-Carlton, and the lion and crown symbol, are registered trademarks of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. in the United States of America and other jurisdictions. Aaron Basha Boutique • 685 Madison Avenue • New York • 212.935.1960 • w w w.aaronba sha.com Athens • Dubai • Hong Kong • Italy • Kiev • London • Moscow • Qatar • Tokyo 28 WEDDINGS by VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 1 58 FEATURES 54 DEPARTMENTS 42 Going to Great Lengths YOUR DREAMS REAL WEDDINGS 48 Let Them Eat ... Cake? 19 inspiration No wedding dreams are too big, as you’ll see from these real Ritz-Carlton stories from around the world. 68 beach chic A Los Angeles couple returns to The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island for their I dos. Long sleeves. Cap sleeves. Strapless. When it comes to the perfect wedding dress, brides have abundant choices. Take a look. Serving wedding cake is a tradition in many parts of the world, but couples everywhere are also tempting their guests’ taste buds in fresh, delightful ways. 54 The Beautiful Table Your wedding décor is an opportunity to surround your guests with elements of your own personal style. We share ideas designed to dazzle. 58 Isle Do With the ocean and lush, tropical landscape as a backdrop, The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is a spectacular setting for a destination wedding ... and one made even more unforgettable with special local touches. 14 W E D D I N G S B Y T H E R I T Z - C A R LT O N 24 jewelry how charming Small tokens of one of life’s biggest moments. 28 beauty picture perfect Advice for achieving that bridal glow. 33 OUR PLEASURE 72 princess brides The Ritz-Carlton, Washington D.C. is making it possible for you to enjoy your own royal wedding. on the runway trend watch The latest looks from today’s top bridal gown designers. COVER PHOTOGRAPH BY J. ANTHONY MARTINEZ. THIS PAGE (LEFT TO RIGHT): DAN VERMILLION, J. ANTHONY MARTINEZ, SUZY CLEMENT editor’s letter Weddings in print — and online a destination wedding in maui. a selection of scrumptious sweet treats by Ritz-Carlton pastry chefs around the world. A vibrant fashion feature spotlighting the long and short of contemporary bridal gowns. And even a real Ritz-Carlton wedding in Amelia Island, Fla. With these topics and many more, our latest issue of “Weddings by The Ritz-Carlton” offers cover-to-cover ideas for making your own celebration uniquely you. Of course, if you’re like me — and can’t get enough of these beautiful wedding features — you’ll be thrilled to know that our inspiration for brides and grooms now also extends online. At ritzcarlton.com/weddings, we’ve created a portal for couples seeking unforgettable ways to celebrate their Big Day. This new wedding resource presents a world of ideas in three distinct sections: Destinations, Trends & Traditions, and Tools & Inspiration. In Destinations, you’ll find slideshows of weddings in breathtaking Ritz-Carlton locations around the world, with imaginative ways to weave local traditions and the locale itself into your celebration. The latest bridal gowns and accessories are a highlight of Trends & Traditions, as are features that showcase wedding menu and drink options, and design themes. And finally, in Tools & Inspiration, you’ll discover abundant ideas for gifts, stationery, photography and even makeup tricks. As a special treat, we also offer complimentary downloadable sheets Find wedding-day inspiration on outlining key questions to ask the professionals you’ll be hiring to make your wedding dreams come true. What do you ask a wedding planner to make sure he or she is a good fit for you and your intended? What do you ask a photographer so your weddingday photos turn out exactly as you’d like? These “10 Questions” sheets are the perfect first step in envisioning your celebration. Happy planning! And remember ... Your Dreams. Our Pleasure. Jamie hoffman editor in Chief ritz.carlton.com/weddings Sonoran Dream Color Magic Real Weddings Discover a desert wedding, where mountains, saguaros and blazing sunsets are the backdrop. We show you how to cast a spell on your wedding day with the perfect palette. Glimpse the celebration of two food lovers who said their I dos at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. · Plus, download our Complimentary Guides covering the 10 Questions to ask your photographer, stationer and wedding planner. 16 w e D D i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n photography (top) by J. anthony Martinez, (bottoM, left to right) Mel barlow, Dan VerMillion, bob anD Dawn DaVis Welcome Home! cashs.com crystalclassics.com shopshannon.com 800-999-0655 CASHS C R Y S T A L ® your dreams · inspiration Your Moments creating a wedding that is decidedly ‘you’ WHEN YOU LOOK BACK ON YOUR WEDDING DAY, it’s the personal details that tend to linger longest. Whether it’s a towering cake made with your lucky number in mind, a signature cocktail or your favorite flowers in your hair, crafting these special custom touches means looking within yourself for inspiration, whimsy and meaning. Of course, realizing your vision — and translating it into an event that lasts a lifetime in the memories of you and your guests — may require help. Fortunately, that is a Ritz-Carlton specialty. photograph by thinkstock w e d d i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n 19 your dreams · inspiration Q&A Ca l m i n g wedding- day jit t er s The run-up to the actual “I dos” can be a stressful time for a prospective bride and groom. That’s why more and more couples are indulging in spa services prior to their nuptials. We talked with Spa Director Kristin Carpenter, of EAU Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Palm Beach, about the trend. Her insights offer great ideas as you plan your big day: How are couples integrating spa services into their weddings? It’s becoming commonplace to see brides and grooms come in together. I think men are becoming more and more comfortable with the notion of pampering and relaxation before their big day — and they are seeing it as another chance to bond with 20 w e d d i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n their fiancee, as well. That’s why we offer a variety of couple’s massages and facial treatments, so the couple can share intimate time and unwind before their wedding. do couples favor any particular treatments? There are so many options, because any number of treatments can be modified for two people. For example, we have a four-hand massage — using two therapists on one person — that can be done for couples. We also have a Twilight Wind Down package, specifically designed for couples, that includes caviar and champagne, a 60-minute soothing massage with champagne-infused body oil — and the couple can share our oversized soaking bath and wind down in the open air for a night under the stars. It’s so romantic. Besides massage, are there other spa treatments that men enjoy? Yes! We offer a Black Tie facial treatment that includes exfoliation and a masque to restore their energy. so you have treatment areas that are open air? Our property is particularly blessed because we have indoor/outdoor garden villa suites for couples, so they can enjoy beautiful garden views in an open-air, but private setting. That type of natural environment also helps to de-stress. sTay and ge T away One emerging trend: traveling to a Ritz-Carlton property for a wedding or honeymoon stay, but using the totality of the surrounding environs for the ceremony or reception. For example, at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, couples are opting for the property’s wedding planners to scope out picturesque local spots in town for the actual ceremony, then having the guests come back to the hotel for the reception. At Abama Golf & Spa Resort in Tenerife, Spain, there’s a Wedding on the Green package, which features a ceremony on the resort’s 10th hole. This location on the course features lakes, waterfalls and lush landscaping combined with views of the ocean. What’s more, couples all over the world are creating wedding plans using the lunar calendar to ensure there’s a full moon for outdoor nighttime ceremonies. Tro pi ca l Ta sT e at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami, weddings are trending toward the tropical, with exotic plants and vivid color schemes. and, the theme extends to libations, too. here’s a cocktail concocted by the mixologists at the property for tropical weddings: Lucky 8’ s in the chinese culture, the number 8 is lucky, symbolizing good fortune … and the number 88 is doubly so. that’s why a couple at The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong requested an 88-pound cream cake for their reception. executive Pastry chef richard long tailor-made the towering confection with seasonal fresh fruits, ultimately ending with a five-tier delight. as a frame of reference, the typical cream wedding cake created at the property weighs in at 5 or 6 pounds. illustrations by traci Daberko; PhotograPh (far right) by Dreamstime mango m o j i to 6 to 8 fresh mint leaves 1 oz. light rum (bacardi silver) 1 oz. mango puree ¼ oz. sugar (fructose/ liquid sugar) ¼ c. soda water muddle the mint leaves in a tall glass. add ice and a mint sprig for garnish. w e D D i n g s b y T H e R i T z - C a R lT o n 21 your dreams · inspiration Golden slumber oftentimes, people view marriage nuptials as a transition from youth to adulthood — regardless of the age when someone says “I do.” so when a bride-to-be was planning her wedding festivities, and happened to mention that she was considering having a few close friends spend the night before her wedding, the staff of The Ritz-Carlton New York, Battery Park thought of an ideal way to herald her new life: a good oldfashioned slumber party. the bride, they learned, was a lover of all things Disney. so, they scoured their favorite shops to find just the right accoutrements — Winnie-the-Pooh stuffed animals, Mickey Mouse blankets and pillows, little Mermaid dinnerware and the like. then, they re-arranged the bride’s suite for optimal popcorn-eating, movie-watching, slumber-party bliss, complete with down comforters on the floor, specially monogrammed ritz-carlton jammies, and Disney cupcakes and other themed treats. the little Mermaid soundtrack was even playing when the bride walked into the room. she was taken completely by surprise, stunned that the staff pulled together a one-of-its-kind experience based on a passing comment made months earlier. but very quickly, she and her guests dived into slumber-party mode, staying up until the wee hours of the morning ... just like kids. WeDDIng DesIgn by Jen eVents (JeneVentsVI.coM), Photos by blue glass PhotograPhy (blueglassPhotograPhy.coM) T he b lin g ’s Th e T h in g The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas recently created a one-of-a-kind wedding that is a hallmark of the above-and-beyond dedication it imparts for wedding experiences. During the planning process, the bride and groom told the staff that they wanted three things: the color yellow, “bling” and an elegant experience that was unique and over-the-top. Because there was no upper limit to their budget, the old rules of wedding planning didn’t apply. So, together with vendors, the resort completely transformed the ceremony and reception venues. For the ceremony, as an example, the cliff-side gazebo was carpeted, draped and surrounded by flowers. Pictured at right, the walkway to the Great Bay Ballroom was also carpeted and lined by yellow flowers. The sunny color was also integrated into the reception decor (left). Among the many special touches: an air-conditioned, glass-enclosed room was custom-built onto the terrace outside of the ballroom. In addition to including a large stage for a band, it also had a dance floor with a monogrammed-marble center. The bars were also custommade with the couple’s monogram and are now at the groom’s family home as décor. The monogram was also prominently displayed on specialty dessert displays, bathrobes and towels during the couple’s say. According to the couple, the event was “blinged” to perfection. More online Visit ritzcarlton.com/weddings to get more ideas for your big day. 22 W e D D I n g s b y T h e R i T z - C a R lT o N IllustratIon by tracI Daberko G Kenneth Wi nston P rivat e L abel By G Bridal Design House PrivateLabelByG.com facebook.com/PrivateLabelByG [email protected] your dreams · jewelry How Charming small tokens of life’s big moment 2 3 1 As if your beach wedding wasn’t memorable enough ... 8 5 7 4 as a gift for the bride or bridal party, charms can tell the story of a couple, their wedding or the unforgettable setting of their destination celebration. Hung on a bracelet or necklace, “they celebrate life’s special moments,” says Sasson Basha of Aaron Basha, a New York City-based jeweler that specializes in unique charms. “Naturally, they’re decorative, but there’s an emotional and sentimental value that you attach to them. It’s about what they symbolize.” Here, we share a selection of charms that are equally playful and poignant, making it practically impossible to choose. But who says you have to select just one? 1. 18-karat gold sailboat charm ($500), by tiffany & Co. (tiffany.com). 2. 14-karat gold fins charm ($335), by rembrandt Charms, from Charm n Jewelry (charmnjewelry.com). 3. 14-karat gold seashell charm ($295), by Charmco (charmco.com). 4. 14-karat gold, diamond and opal flip-flop charm ($398), by heavenly treasures (heavenlytreasures. com). 5. 14-karat gold and enamel starfish charm ($250), by Charmco (charmco.com). 6. 14-karat bucket and shovel charm ($376), by rembrandt Charms, from Charm n Jewelry (charmnjewelry.com). 7. 14-karat gold palm tree charm ($175), by Charmco (charmco.com). 8. 18-karat gold and pearl oyster charm ($1,300), by tiffany & Co. (tiffany.com). 6 24 w e D D i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n photographs by Dan vermillion From Wedding Day to Every Day VITIS CHAMPAGNE RIEDELWEBSTORE.COM COUPON CODE: RIEDELBRIDAL REGISTER AT RIEDEL AND RECEIVE 15% OFF. your dreams · jewelry 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Tiny reminders of your love and affection . . . . . . symbols of joy, precious moments, the past, your future. 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 26 w e D D i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n 1. give her your heart — this one in 18-karat rose gold with diamonds ($2,200), by aaron basha (aaronbasha. com). 2. perfect for those times when you’re apart, an 18-karat gold paloma picasso hugs and kisses charm ($375); 3. your messenger of love ($1,000); and 4. a 14-karat wedding cake charm that’s as sweet as the real thing ($375), all by tiffany & Co. (tiffany.com). 5. recall that feeling of being moonstruck? you will with this 14-karat gold couple swinging on the moon ($225), by Charmco (charmco.com). 6. because you’re lovebirds, your own pair in platinum with diamonds (price upon request), by stephen russell (stephenrussell.com). 7. the perfect reminder of his precious proposal, a 14-karat gold engagement ring charm ($105), by Charmco (charmco.com). 8. this heart sparkles ($3,100), by Kwiat, from Kwiat madison avenue (kwiat.com). 9. the gift every girl wants: tiffany’s little blue box — this one as an everlasting sterling silver and enamel charm ($250), by tiffany & Co. (tiffany.com). 10. one of the stars of indian weddings — an elephant — in 14-karat gold ($245), by Charmco (charmco.com). 11. the Chinese symbol for good luck, this one in 18-karat gold and enamel ($675), by tiffany & Co. (tiffany.com). 12. a globe charm for a worldly bride, in 14-karat gold ($718), by rembrandt Charms, from Charm n Jewelry (charmnjewelry.com). 13. a miniature symbol of peace, this bird dazzles with diamonds set in platinum (price upon request), by stephen russell (stephenrussell.com). 14. protect her from the evil eye with this 14-karat gold and ruby hamsa charm ($165), by Charmco (charmco.com). 15. perhaps you’ll glimpse this beautiful animal during your honeymoon in the middle east. remember the moment with this camel charm featuring diamonds set in platinum (price upon request), by stephen russell (stephenrussell.com). 16. Celebrate your love of travel — or your destination wedding — with this 18-karat airplane charm ($1,500), by tiffany & Co. (tiffany.com). photographs by Dan vermillion A T H A N N A H H A N D M A D E AWA R D - W I N N I N G C U S T O M I N V I TAT I O N S & DESIGN SINCE 1991 A T H A N N A H H A N D M A D E A T H A N N A H H A N D M A D E A T H A N N A H H A N D M A D E WHEN ONLY THE BEST WILL DO. INSPIRED HEIRLOOM INVITATIONS FOR WEDDINGS, SOCIAL AND CORPORATE EVENTS WORLDWIDE TOLL FREE NORTH AMERICA 800- 670- 6703 OR 847-864-8292 WWW.HANNAHHANDMADE.COM TM your dreams · beauty Picture Perfect MAKEUP ADVICE TO ACHIEVE THAT PERFECT BRIDAL GLOW Earthy for the quietly chic bride, a subtle “no-makeup” makeup look, using gentle earth tones and sheer lip gloss, emphasizes natural beauty. “It’s all about what feels comfortable,” says Jennifer Holzworth, Spa Supervisor for The Ritz-Carlton, Denver. Prior to your big day, play with pretty shades of brown and tan on your eyes, paired with a sweet light pink or peach-toned lip, Holzworth advises. For a sun-kissed look, add a little bronzer on cheeks. The key is not to stray too far from your day-to-day look, she says. 2 1 3 1. Sheer lip shine in loving, 2. protective mineral foundation with SPF 17 and 3. interference color rich shadow in flax, all by Being True (beingtrue.com). Silk chiffon gown ($4,510), by Alberta Ferretti (albertaferretti.com). Moonstone and diamond earrings set in yellow gold ($3,450), by Jamie Wolf (available at barneys.com). Model: Priscilla 28 W E D D I N G S B Y T H E R I T Z - C A R LT O N PHOTOGRAPHED BY BILLY KIDD, MAKEUP PHOTOGRAPHED BY DAN VERMILLION 516.621.4242 BrettMatthews.com Destinations Worldwide your dreams · beauty Urban S ophisticate modern brides who are drawn to sleek, big-city weddings “exude passion, style and grace,” says Melissa McMahon, Spa Director of The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles. If that’s you, on your wedding day, you’ll want to look like yourself, she says, but elevated ... more dramatic. “You want to make a statement.” So, think luminous red lips, paired with a subtle smoky eye in brown, gold or gray, and dewy cheeks. “You want to look like you’re glowing from within,” says McMahon, who encourages brides to add “extra drama where they need it most.” Take a risk, she says, with lush lashes or a glam attention-grabbing accessory. 2 1 3 1. PurePressed Blush Parfait ($27), 2. PureLash Mascara Black Onyx ($16) and 3. Carrie PureMoist Lipcolour ($20), all by Jane Iredale (janeiredale. com). Pearl-embroidered gown ($5,300), by Reem Acra, from Kleinfeld (kleinfeldbridal.com). Round .97-carat diamond drop earrings set in white gold ($3,200), by De Beers (debeers.com). Model: Hye Jung Lee 30 W E D D I N G S B Y T H E R I T Z - C A R LT O N PHOTOGRAPH BY BILLY KIDD, MAKEUP BY DAN VERMILLION your dreams · beauty B each y a breezy bride marrying on the coast can take inspiration from sea goddesses and scenic sunsets — embrace the wind in your hair and crisp salt air. Jennifer Bachelor, Spa makeup artist at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas, suggests a soft look centered on pink or peach eye shadow, highlighted by serene brown liner. To individualize the look, tie in the aquatic colors of your bridesmaids’ dresses on your eyes. Perhaps a subtle sea foam green or soft ocean blue? Lips are a beach-chic pink or peach, while a light mineral lightener above the cheeks gives a natural glow. To stay gorgeous in the sun, good coverage is key, Bachelor says — don’t forget a primer to withstand the heat, and SPF to keep your skin perfectly protected. 2 3 1 1. Refined Golden bronzing powder ($23), 2. Costa Chic cream lipstick (about $15) and 3. liquid eyeliner (about $18), all by MAC (maccosmetics.com). Crystal embroidered Lina gown ($6,600), by Monique Lhuillier (moniquelhuillier.com). 2.04-carat diamond stud earrings set in platinum stud (price upon request), by De Beers (debeers.com). Model: Simone Kerr Styled by Erica Sigel. Makeup by Joy Fennell; hair by Gregory Allen. 32 W E D D I N G S B Y T H E R I T Z - C A R LT O N PHOTOGRAPH BY BILLY KIDD, MAKEUP BY DAN VERMILLION your dreams · on the runway 1 reem acra 5 aLvina vaLenta 2 monique LhuiLLier 6 aLfred angeLo To Each Her Own modern gowns showcase the bride’s personaL styLe Classic Couture and hollywood glamour were the inspirations behind a season of show-stopping yet elegant bridal gowns. Acknowledging the modern bride’s desire for a dress that uniquely represents her, designers catered to a range of personal styles. For the timeless romantic, lace was a top choice, adding antique appeal as both an intricate accent and an allover fabric. Among a surfeit of feminine embellishment, ruffles, placed bows and rosettes, ethereal overlays of tulle and lace, and waist-defining sashes and beading stood out. For the glamorous bride, designers nodded 3 christos 4 LeLa rose photographs courtesy of bridal gown designers 7 amsaLe 1. ivory tulle V-neck gown with organza and crystal embroidered skirt ($10,500, reemacra.com). 2. organza matelassé strapless gown with ballgown skirt and embellished tulle bolero (dress $6,160, bolero $2,860; moniquelhuillier.com). 3. lace one-shoulder ballgown with tiered skirt and crystal beading at waist ($6,900, christosbridal.com). 4. satin faced silk taffeta embroidered tulle gown with full skirt ($5,995, lelarose. com). 5. silk organza fit-andflare gown with cascading skirt ($3,730, jlmcouture. com). 6. satin fit-and-flare gown with re-embroidered lace hem and cape ($1,499, alfredangelo.com). 7. silk wool ballgown with bateau neckline and tulle skirt ($4,400, amsale.com). w e d d i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n 33 Elegant Invitations for a discerning clientele Signature Couture Invitations for weddings, social and corporate events worldwide Weddings & Special Events beyondinvitingcouture.com & beyondinviting.com by Appointment Only ph.760.436.5722 La Costa, California Couture Bridal and Special Occasion Collection 102 St. Charles Avenue New Orleans • LA 70130 504.638.1579 www.HaroldClarke.com your dreams · on the runway 1 ines di sAnto 5 CArolinA HerrerA 2 roMonA KevezA 6 MArCHesA to the red carpet with sparkling Swarovski crystals and lingerie details such as corset bodices and high slits. Upping the drama were 3-D textures, seen in floral appliqués, feathers, pleats and laser-cut confections. Along with your personal style, consider your location when choosing a gown: A fuller skirt suits a ballroom affair, while a flowing sheath is just right for an outdoor ceremony overlooking the mountains. With so many distinctive gowns to choose from this season, falling in love with “the one” takes on an entirely new meaning. Luxe, ladylike gowns as utterly unique as you are 3 36 JennY PACKHAM 4 st. PuCCHi w e d d I n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n 7 Anne BArge 1. Off-white silk peau de soie asymmetrical mermaid gown with draped bodice ($5,100, inesdisanto.com). 2. Pearl and blush strapless gown made of dramatic crystal and floral beading (price upon request, romonakeveza.com). 3. Full-length chiffon dress with lace trim ($5,000, jennypackham.com). 4. Pure silk organza mermaid dress with asymmetrically lined pleats ($4,170, stpucchi.com). 5. Ivory fully embroidered tulle V-neck gown with floral details and crystal beading (price upon request, carolinaherrera.com). 6. Lace fit-and-flare gown with illusion neckline and appliquéd skirt ($11,500, marchesa.com). 7. Column gown with vertical bias ruffles of silk satin organza ($3,500, annebarge.com). PhOtOgraPhs COurtesy OF brIdaL gOwn desIgners DESIGNER profiles Nothing But the Best MEEt SoME INSpIRING pRofESSIoNalS who MakE wEDDING DREaMS coME tRuE PhotograPh by thinkstock sPecial promotional section DESIGNER profiles ◗ jewelry Bringing out the best in a wine’s bouquet: Riedel Vitis glasses. ◗ Crystal Raise Your Glass Riedel blends art and science in stemware that brings out the best in wines and champagnes A glass is such a simple thing. But in the hands of a master craftsman, a glass can become something more than a mere vessel. It becomes something elegant, refined. Something that reveals the true nature of that which it holds. That’s the case with Riedel Crystal. For more than 11 generations, the family-owned international manufacturer has developed glasses that meld science and art, offering stemware that showcases the beauty and bounty of wines. For example, the company creates bowl shapes with different rim diameters and openings that accentuate the bouquet, signature notes and overall taste of each varietal. So, pairings of the right glass to the right wine create a perfect experience. According to Maximilian Riedel, CEO of Riedel Crystal of America, the glass then “becomes the loudspeaker for the beverage,” amplifying its characteristics. To that end, Riedel not only makes the finest glassware, but also applies its scientific approach to the creation of decanters. “Every wine — even champagne — should be decanted to unveil its true flavors,” he says. “Our decanters are designed specifically to aerate much faster and provide a more well-rounded drinking experience.” So, a glass can be a simple thing. Or in the case of Riedel, it can be a finely tuned instrument that unlocks the pleasures of beverage. Riedel stemware and decanters make the perfect wedding gift. For more information, visit riedel.com. specIal promotional section Stunning, Naturally In the hands of jewelry designer Todd Reed, raw diamonds never looked more gorgeous at a time when people seem particularly enamored with high-tech manufacturing and meticulously controlled artifice, it’s refreshing to see natural, unadorned beauty. Maybe that’s why Todd Reed is such a success. Since 1992, Reed, a goldsmith and designer, Todd Reed has turned convention on its ear, crafting one-of-a-kind wedding and engagement rings using raw, uncut diamonds. The result: rings that brim with individuality and personality, reflecting the spirit of the people who choose to wear them. Working with recycled 18-karat gold as well as palladium, platinum and silver in his studio in Boulder, Colo., Reed focuses on creating a natural harmony between the materials. “When I began in this art form, I became interested in these uncut gems as a way to reinterpret diamonds in our current society and to explore them throughout history,” he says. “I wanted to bring back the natural colors, organic cuts and timelessness of ancient and antique pieces which were worn by royals and ordinary people alike.” To that end, he carefully selects natural diamonds in a variety of colors and sizes, building the rings around the unusual shapes, instead of forcing design to accommodate a typical diamond that has been honed and chipped and beveled. It’s an organic process befitting the organic materials he uses. And it’s a process that has design aficionados clamoring for more. To see more examples of Todd Reed’s stunning jewelry, visit toddreed.com. DESIGNER profiles ◗ BRIDAL GOWNS One-ofa-Kind Design ◗ FLOWER GIRLS The Littlest Details Love Jay Girls ensures that design leads the way for the first one down the aisle Oftentimes, brides-to-be spend hours poring over magazines, trying to anticipate trends as they clip together a look book for that perfect once-in-a-lifetime day. But according to Harold Clarke, head designer and owner of Harold Clarke Couturier Atelier, there’s another approach. “If a bride-to-be takes her cues from what’s in the bridal stores or magazines, she is only seeing what is currently on trend — along Harold Clarke with every other bride in the world,” he says. “What’s on trend now won’t be six months from now. And that means she’s not getting a dress that’s unique.” So, instead, Clarke meets with brides to develop a gown design that speaks to their personal sensibilities, shape and, well, dreams. Then, he creates a series of sketches, often using eight or nine variations to develop a dialogue with the intended bride. Sometimes, however, he goes directly from the initial consultation to draping a form, working with different textures, fabrics and lines to craft a one-of-its-kind gown that easily surpasses any tornout pages of a look book. “Draping allows for an immediacy — you can see the vision for a piece that much clearer,” he says. “Then, gown design is less a science than an art.” An art in which Clarke is an acknowledged master. Aside from the bride, there is perhaps no more scrutinized member of the bridal party than the flower girl. The first person to walk the aisle, and typically the youngest, the flower girl does more than just scatter flower petals. She sets the style and tone for the entire processional. No wonder so many of them get nervous. Shana and Rebecca, To help ease flower girl jitters, Love Jay owners of Love Jay Girls. Girls specializes in creating quasi-couture dresses for this all-important member of the wedding ensemble. Playful, vibrant and fashion-forward, the dresses are designed in a way that helps make the special little girls feel wholly comfortable when they’re the center of attention walking down the aisle. Instead of the typical satin and tulle of flower girl dresses, Shana Cutler, a co-owner of Love Jay Girls, says she and her partner, Rebecca Gold, use light, comfortable fabrics, amplifying color, styling, textures and tones to complement the appearance of the rest of the bridal party’s wardrobe. The result: a look that is just as at home walking down the runway as the wedding aisle. “Children have an expression of style,” Cutler says. “We always want to reflect their playfulness in an age-appropriate way — so One of a wedding doesn’t try to forcethe playful fit the flower girl dress into Love Jay Girls’ dress too-adult styling or alternately, designs. clothing that’s too childlike.” And given the designs of the company’s current collection, flower girls the country over can relax. And rejoice. For more information or to set up a consultation, visit haroldclarke.com. For more information, or to find a store, visit lovejaygirls.com. Harold Clarke takes brides beyond the pages of magazines to create wedding gowns that are wholly unique SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION DESIGNER profiles ◗ CONFECTIONS A Sweet Tradition Les Cinq Amandes’ enchanting confections lend charm and meaning to wedding celebrations It started as a simple wish — actually, five of them. In the mid-17th century, Europeans celebrating weddings would offer their guests five confectionary almonds symbolizing wishes for health, happiness, wealth, longevity and fertility. In the subsequent centuries, the treats got a name — dragées — but the practice remained unchanged. Same five wishes. Same five almonds. Until now. Enter Les Cinq Amandes, a high-end confectionary that specializes in taking the centuries-old art and updating it, offering more than 30 types of dragées in an array of flavors and colors (in addition to the traditional almond) to create a one-of-its-kind experience for bridal parties and all special life celebrations. The company even updated the set of wishes, offering brides and grooms health, happiness, peace, longevity and, of course, love. The secret to Les Cinq Amandes’ success lies in two areas: the quality of ingredients and the one-on-one design consultation that focuses on a breathtaking artistic presentation of the dragée to guests. To accomplish this, Les Cinq Amandes makes use of the highest-quality ingredients, like grand cru almonds from Sicily and the best couture material while employing creative skills to ensure that each dragée presentation enchants the visual senses as well as the palate. The result: a gift with deep meaning that is also delectable. To set up a consultation, call 1-877-FAVOR57. Or visit fivealmonds.com. ◗ WEDDING RINGS Dazzling News Precision Set’s intricate engagement and wedding rings celebrate U.S. artistry and skills it may come as a surprise to know that jewelry manufacturers are increasingly outsourcing work overseas. But it’s gratifying to know that one company still produces stunning wedding jewelry in the United States, with a host of artisans dedicated to applying their knowledge, experience and craftsmanship to ensure that the highest standards are met. That’s the case at Dallas-based Precision Set, a preeminent bridal jewelry manufacturer with more than 25 years’ experience in jewelry creation. The artisans at Precision Set learned their craft at places like Tiffany’s and Neiman Marcus before graduating to Precision Set, which is renowned for its intricate designs, meticulous settings and impeccable artistry. More than 30 skilled craftsmen and designers at Precision Set work in 18-karat gold and platinum, designing everything from solitaires to three-stone rings to extraordinary bespoke engagement rings. Precision Set is also known as a prime source for impeccably made diamond wedding bands that are crafted to last a lifetime. According to Buzz Jopling, company president, that makes the rings more than a token of commitment — it makes them timeless heirlooms that can be passed down from generation to generation. And because Precision Set creates classic designs, that precious heirloom can look just as fresh and contemporary in decades to come. Precision Set rings can be found at finer independent jewelers across the country. For more information on Precision Set offerings, visit precisionset.com. 40 W E D D I N G S B Y T H E R I T Z - C A R LT O N the long and short of your big decision: What dress to wear? Some brides begin their search for the perfect wedding gown with a particular style in mind. We suggest an alternative: Think of your best physical attribute. A swanlike neck. Stunning décolletage. Pilates-perfect shoulders and arms. Legs for miles. Choose a gown that reveals and conceals in all the right places, and your groom — and guests — will be mesmerized. Guaranteed. Photography by Billy Kidd Going to Great Lengths 42 This page (left to right): Sculpted lace dress (price upon request), by Marchesa (marchesa.com); and Balneario earrings ($10,000), by Carla Amorim, from Panther Creations (516-295-9144). Chantilly lace gown ($8,690), by Oscar de la Renta from Erin Cole (erincole.com); gold earrings with rock crystal and diamond accents ($2,900), by H.Stern (hstern.net); and Arpeggia 15-carat diamond bracelet set in white gold (price upon request), by De Beers (debeers.com). Also on this spread: Victoria .60-carat diamond engagement ring set in platinum ($6,000), by Gumuchian (gumuchian.com); and .34-carat diamond wedding band set in white gold ($1,850), by De Beers (debeers.com). This page (left to right): Layered tulle gown ($6,600), by Rivini, from Kleinfeld Bridal (kleinfeldbridal.com); diamond earrings set in platinum ($12,720), by Harry Winston (harrywinston.com); and diamond infinity bracelet set in white gold ($4,690), by Katie Decker, from Fragments (fragments.com). Organza gown with embroidered skirt ($5,490), by Christos (christosbridal.com); Decadence shoes ($245), by Badgley Mischka, from My Glass Slipper (myglassslipper.com); Moonlight diamond and gemstone earrings set in gold ($9,000), by H.Stern (hstern.net); diamond and topaz bracelet set in gold ($5,270), by Katie Decker, from Fragments (fragments.com); and 3.25-carat diamond bracelet set in rose gold ($7,700), by Dana Rebecca (danarebeccadesigns.com). w e d d i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n 43 Embrace the highs and lows This page (left to right): Silk taffeta gown ($2,100), by Watters (watters.com); 8.99-carat diamond earrings set in platinum (price upon request), by De Beers (debeers.com); and Moonlight rock crystal necklace with diamond accents set in gold ($10,800), by H.Stern (hstern.net). Henriette lace ball gown ($8,500), by Vera Wang (verawang.com); 2.04-carat diamond and platinum stud earrings set in platinum (price upon request), by De Beers (debeers.com); and Agrafe white gold and freshwater pearl bracelet with diamond clasp (price upon request), by Cartier (cartier.com). Also on this spread: A 3-carat, 16-diamond wedding band set in platinum (price upon request), by Chopard (chopard.com) and 3.26-carat solitaire diamond engagement ring set in platinum ($212,000), by Harry Winston (harrywinston.com). 44 w e d d i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n This page (left to right): Chantilly lace mermaid gown ($4,900), by Carolina Herrera (carolinaherrera.com); and 2.10carat diamond earrings set in gold ($6,600), by Dana Rebecca (danarebeccadesigns.com). Silk gown with a bubble skirt ($3,170), by Morgane Le Fay (morganelefay.com); Caresse d’orchidées diamond earrings set in white gold ($28,000), by Cartier (cartier.com); diamond open-link bracelet set in platinum ($43,000), by Harry Winston (harrywinston.com); and ivory silk and rhinestone brooch shoes ($598), by Giuseppe Zanotti, from My Glass Slipper (myglassslipper.com). of a dramatic neckline, sweet cap sleeves, an unexpected hem. w e d d i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n 45 This page (left to right): Silk crepe gown ($3,080), by Anne Bowen (annebowen.com); and Agrafe freshwater pearl, diamond and white gold earrings (price upon request), by Cartier (cartier.com). Silk A-line, illusion neckline, gown ($5,500), by Romona Keveza (legendsbyromonakeveza.com); and 7-carat pear-cut diamond earrings (10 stones total) set in platinum (price upon request), by Chopard (chopard.com). Also on this spread: A 2-carat, 18-diamond wedding band set in white gold (price upon request), by Chopard (chopard.com); and a 3-carat cushion-cut diamond engagement ring set in platinum (price upon request), by Chopard (chopard.com). Well-armed: Sleek, sheer or in peekaboo lace, long 46 W E D D I N G S B Y T H E R I T Z - C A R LT O N sleeves never looked more elegant. This page (left to right): Tulle gown ($6,400), by Monique Lhuillier, from Kleinfeld Bridal (kleinfeldbridal.com); and Celtic Dunes diamond earrings set in gold ($16,800), by H.Stern (hstern.net). Daphne silk lace gown ($2,200), by Modern Trousseau (moderntrousseau.com); silk wedding shoe ($480), by Giuseppe Zanotti, from My Glass Slipper (MyGlassSlipper.com; and Atea 1.95-carat diamond earrings set in white gold ($9,000), by De Beers (debeers.com). Model: Courtney Erickson. Styled by Erica Sigel. Makeup by Joy Fennell. Hair by Gregory Allen. MORE FASHION ONLINE Visit ritzcarlton.com/weddings to see more ways to walk down the aisle in style. W E D D I N G S B Y T H E R I T Z - C A R LT O N 47 . . .Cake? let them eat Weddings and cakes go together like love and marriage. But the latest trend for many contemporary couples is offering a signature sWeet treat that ’s far less traditional — though no less memoraBle. Text by Renee schettLeR · Photography by Dan VeRmiLLion trio of sweets · Hong Kong in china, custom sways many brides and grooms to opt for an elaborate eight-course wedding banquet, long believed to bring newlyweds luck. Yet at The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong, nearly a third of these couples still play loose and fancy-free with the last course, requesting something sophisticated yet decidedly unconventional. Executive Pastry Chef Richard Long’s response takes the form of an elegant plated dessert, a trio of lavish tastes comprising decadent, fudge-like chocolate cake, velvety passion fruit crème and raspberry mousse atop a sliver of a joconde spongecake which, in a subtle nod to another tradition, is the basis of many a tiered wedding cake. This page: matte & shine hors d’oeuvres tray ($80, including three bowls), by Donna Karan for Lenox (lenox.com). ice cream bar · New Orleans into every reception a slight lull seems to come, usually — and not surprisingly — just after dinner. At The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans, Executive Pastry Chef Thomas McGovern finds that a little whimsy in the form of an ice cream station really revitalizes things. Guests can indulge in create-your-own sundaes, smothering ice cream with hot fudge, caramel sauce, strawberries, whipped cream, peanuts, chopped candy bars, even Pop Rocks. Or they can instead sample minicones, showing off a veritable palette of flavors, from the more expected vanilla and chocolate and strawberry to the relatively exotic watermelon and even lemon verbena sorbet. “We tend to see a ‘WOW!’ type of response,” says McGovern. No surprise there. Food styling by EllEn strainE w E d d i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n 49 this page: Perlée bowls ($170 each), by L’Objet (l-objet.com). Making “over the top” both beautiful and scrumptious. CHOCOLATE BREAD PUDDING · San Francisco “something chocolatey and over the top!” was a recent request made of Cynthia Falatic, Pastry Chef at The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco. “They asked us to create something special for them,” says Falatic. “All I knew is that the couple really loved chocolate.” Because she wanted guests to feel as though they had their own personal dessert — made just for them —Falatic and her team conjured an abundance of chocolatey creations, each individually portioned and plated. Tiramisu. Panna cotta. Pots de crème. Even a chocolate fountain. And, to balance the sweeter offerings, a spectacularly dark and indulgent bread pudding concocted from custard that was melded with melted Ghirardelli chocolate and heaped upon croissants. As a testament to the team’s creativity, at the end of the reception, everything was gone, says Falatic. “Absolutely gone.” 50 w e d d i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n PETIT FOURS · Berlin some couples prefer to send a little something sweet home with their wedding guests. At The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin, Executive Pastry Chef Antje Rauterberg crafts his-and-hers petit fours — cognac-laced dark chocolate for the gents, strawberry-imbued hearts enveloped in red couverture for the ladies — as favors for guests. The diminutive desserts are inscribed with the names of the bride and groom or their wedding date. It’s a fanciful flourish that serves as a remembrance for family and friends, one that lingers long after the actual favor itself. 51 Sweet sophistication takes on forms beyond the traditional tiers. CroquembouChe Cake · Key Biscayne in keeping with the notion of wedding cake as décor, not just dessert, the pastry team at The Ritz-Carlton Key-Biscayne, Miami recently fashioned croquembouche cake, a labor of love created from vanilla cream pastry puffs bound together for the sake of holy matrimony by caramel. It’s an elegant, eyecatching riff on a multitiered cake, one that multitasks as both conversation starter and centerpiece given its elaborate floral and ribbon embellishments. The French form factor still affords a photo op for cake cutting — or rather, pastry plucking — given how the happy couple snatched from the cake and fed one another the first of many, many a shared dessert. Croquembouche re-created by Honeymoon sweets (honeymoonsweets.com). More online Visit ritzcarlton.com/weddings for further wedding menu and beverage inspirations. 52 w e d d i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n the beautiful Whether a formal affair, or an intimate soiree, pick aesthetic details for your table setting and centerpiece that reflect you and make a lasting impression. here, we offer inspiration Text by Linda Seidman 54 w e d d i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n (opposite) incorporate coveted pieces from your travels into your wedding reception, using them as inspiration for an overall design, recommends Cortnie Purdy, event designer of Canvas & Canopy Events, who planned this wedding tabletop. “The mixing of random materials can be so magical,” she says. Inspired by sand dunes, fossils and archeological digs in Egypt, the earthy colors and textures look sophisticated paired with metallic touches. Vintage chargers edged with gold filigree help formalize a table set with handmade earthenware plates. Cleopatra-esque jewelry adorns shimmery art deco printed napkins beside a blend of flatware in shiny gold and antiqued silver. Hand-painted with textural details, the menu and place cards are made from raw papyrus paper. Fuchsia peonies in alabaster vases add a bold pop of color to the muted desert hues and create an overall romantic feel. table 2 C R E AT E T H E LO O K : C R E AT E T H E LO O K : 1 Tablescape by Canvas & Canopy Events (canvasandcanopy.com). Photo by Jose Villa (josevillaphoto.com). 1. Ivory Ashley table linen, by BBJ Linen 4 (bbjlinen.com). 2. Manhattan Gold tableware ($170), by Michael Wainwright, from Michael C. Fina (michaelcfina.com). 3. Bubble champagne glass ($130), by Kim Seybert (kimseybert.com), and 4. Highland plate ($137), by Juane de Chrome, from Devine (devinecorp.net). (above) let nature’s elements capture an eco-friendly look. “Celebrate locally grown resources from your reception location. It can save on design costs while creating a simple elegance,” says Aimee Monihan, principal designer of Tropical Occasions and Mountain Occasions. Blending several centerpieces at each table enhances the variety of textures. A stem of Phalaenopsis orchids placed in green glass bottles combines with bent tropical orchids in square teak boxes. The aromatic fragrance of roasted coffee beans in glass hurricanes perk up guests’ senses. Recycled burlap coffee bags act as runners and complement the textural rattan chargers. Looking for a fresh idea? A lime, placed at each setting, includes a strip of paper with the guest’s name cleverly belted around it. The end result? Eco-lovely. Tablescape by Tropical Occasions and Mountain Occasions (tropicaloccasions.com and mountainoccasions.com). Photo by Jose Villa (josevillaphoto.com). 5. Menu card, by 2u Collection (2ucollection.com). 6. Royal wine glass ($230 pair), by Lalique (lalique.com). 7. Squeeze vase ($350), by Orrefors, from Crystal Classics (crystalclassics.com). 8. Rattan charger ($10), from Pier 1 (pier1.com). 3 7 8 6 5 55 56 (left) bring the beauty of the outdoors in by incorporating a fresh floralscape centerpiece. Stretching down the center of the table, this one combines lush green Hydrangeas, Helleborus, umbrella ferns and a hint of white lilacs. “Green has become a strong neutral and very applicable all year-round,” says Meredith Waga Perez of Belle Fleur New York. Blackened iron lanterns with pillar candles and glowing petite lanterns with an amber tint add a warm traditional touch while a balsa wood menu tied with raffia doubles as a place card. Perez advises brides “not to be afraid of introducing an interesting charger or water goblet” like this abstract-shaped dessert plate with a zebra print. “Try to pull in at least one unique piece — it will leave a memorable impression for your guests.” C R E AT E T H E LO O K : Tablescape designed by Belle Fleur New York (bellefleurny.com). 1. High Rise wine stems ($85), by Diane Von Furstenberg (dvf.com). 2. Striped napkin and spike napkin ring, from Nuage Designs (nuagedesigns.com). 3. Devore tableware ($18-30), by Donna Karan, from Lenox (lenox.com). 1 (opposite) brighten your day, or evening reception, by spotlighting seasonal flowers in bold colors. An eclectic blend of yellow Oncidium orchids, pin cushion Protea, dahlias, Gerbera daisies, gold Dendrobium and kumquats on branches are lit from below, giving off a dramatic effect at night. Glass cylinders with votive candles add a warm glow. “When deciding on your table palette, choose your color first, then select table linens and build upwards from there,” suggests Leslie Grady, event and floral designer for Leslie Grady Special Event Design. Incorporate contemporary details such as square-shaped tables and gold glass chargers with spice-colored banded napkins. Modern, cheerful hues enliven neutral surroundings while adding visual interest. C R E AT E T H E LO O K : Tablescape designed by Kathryn Kenna, The Wedding Resource (kathrynkenna.com). Flowers by Leslie Grady Special Event Design (510-418-9118). Photo by Suzy Clement (suzyclement.com). 4. Vinum wine glasses ($125 for set of 8), by Riedel, from Crystal Classics (crystalclassics. com). 5. Organza Chiavari chair back and cushion, by Resource One (resourceoneinc.com). 6. Invitation, by Ceci New York (cecinewyork.com). 3 2 5 4 6 W E D D I N G S B Y T H E R I T Z - C A R LT O N 57 On her: Silver and gold embroidered Cherry Blossom gown ($5,250), by Claire Pettibone (clairepettibone.com); and 3.63-carat diamond and white gold chandelier earrings ($9,650), from Hutton’s Fine Jewelers (huttonsjewelers.com). On him: Silk and cotton suit ($2,995), by Ermenegildo Zegna (zegna.com); dress shirt ($89), by Calvin Klein (calvinklein.com); ivory suede wingtip oxfords ($198), by Calibrate, from Nordstrom (nordstrom.com); and 18-karat gold, silver and diamond watch ($31,350), by Rolex, from Baron & Leeds, Lahaina (baronandleeds.com). isle do 58 W E D D I N G S B Y T H E R I T Z - C A R LT O N What if...the treasured traditions of an island paradise inspired every detail of your destination wedding? every culture tells its own stories. In Hawaii, legend recalls a tale of the demigod “Maui,” who formed the Hawaiian Islands by reaching into the sea and pulling them from its depths. The custom of storytelling is integral to the Hawaiian way of life. And on the following pages, a wedding at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua demonstrates how entwining local folklore and tradition into the fabric of a wedding celebration makes it an intricate tapestry of past, present and future. T E X T BY J E N N I F E R T Z E S E S P H OTO GR APH Y BY J. AN TH O N Y M ARTIN EZ 59 This page (on her): 1.54-carat diamond and white gold bangle (price upon request) and Vahan .19-carat diamond, sterling and gold bracelet ($2,438), both from Hutton’s Fine Jewelers (huttonsjewelers.com). Opposite page (middle left): 3.49-carat cushion-cut diamond ring with .72 carats of micro pavé diamonds set in platinum (price upon request), by Louis Glick; plus, .60-carat diamond and white gold wedding band ($3,212); and 22-karat gold and platinum groom’s wedding band ($5,500), by Pratima Designs, all three from Hutton’s Fine Jewelers (huttonsjewelers.com). Both pages: Wedding setup and flowers by Asa Flowers (asaflowers.com). A setting as inspired as The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, where earth, sea and sky unite, is a sacred space to say, “I do.” And the property’s Napili Lawn, with its panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and sprawling blanket of green, is the ideal locale for an open-air ceremony. Certainly, nature provides much of the décor in a destination wedding like this. But couples can accent the backdrop with details that amplify the beauty of the natural environment. Consider your walk down the aisle. Rather than a traditional carpet, ours is made from 10,000 tropical blooms. Hand-strung garlands of leis adorn the canopy. And pomanders echo the flowers in the bride’s bouquet. Even the ring pillow, made with woven palm leaves and raffia, reflects the exotic location. And of course, a Hawaiian wedding wouldn’t be complete without a lei exchange — a symbol of the loving union between the couple. Here, the groom’s lei is made from spicy scented maile. Maile leis, known as the “leis of royalty,” date back to ancient Hawaii when they were used as peace offerings during battles. Its leaves are said to bestow protection, luck and healing. W e D D i n G s b y T h e r i T z - c a r lT O n 61 L iving among lush foliage, pristine beachfront and a limitless seascape, the ocean-side Beach House Lawn lays the groundwork for a naturally stunning reception. An airy tent is the best way to showcase the breathtaking natural backdrop. A vibrant palette punctuates details throughout the celebration, including the tangerine-hued table runner and matching napkins adorned with yellow Mokara orchids and Uluhe fern curls. Only bold centerpieces will stand out against a landscape like this; here, vivid orchids, ferns and native flowers dress up the table. “The simple, contemporary look [of the ceremony] was repeated for the reception, but I turned the color palette up a bit by using brighter hued blooms to enliven the party,” says Asa Ige, owner of Asa Flowers and one of the designers behind this Maui wedding. The bride’s handtied bouquet is equally colorful, with green hydrangea and Cymbidium orchids, and yellow Ranunculus. Tropical touches such as a carved watermelon and custom cocktails add to the Island feel. 62 w e d d i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n Tent and linens, by Raj Tents (rajtents.com); chairs, by Chameleon Chairs (chameleonchair.com); and floral centerpieces, tent rings and napkin holders, all by Asa Flowers (asaflowers.com). Top (on her): Bikini top and bottom ($68 each) by Hale Bob (halebob.com); 24-karat gold and turquoise wrap necklace ($2,430), 24-karat gold wrap necklace ($12,500), diamond and 24-karat gold bangle ($1,060), oxidized “gilver” and diamond bangle ($2,930), Mica bangle ($7,115), and 24-karat gold and diamond ring ($7,680), all by Yossi Harari, from Hutton’s Fine Jewelers (huttonsjewelers.com). On him: Board shorts ($54), by J. Crew (jcrew.com). Bottom Left (on her): Pearl and diamond earrings ($2,100), by Mikimoto, from Baron & Leeds, Lahaina (baronandleeds.com). Bottom Right (on her): Silk tunic ($204), by Hale Bob (halebob.com); diamond and 24-karat gold hoop earrings (price on request), by Yossi Harari, from Hutton’s Fine Jewelers (huttonsjewelers.com). Styling by Pauline Leonard Hair and makeup by Pia Sundquist Photographed on location at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua I n Hawaiian, Kapalua means “arms embracing the sea,” a reference to the area’s dramatic lava peninsulas. After marrying here, it’s easy to see why you might never want to leave this cradle of beauty. Staying on for your honeymoon is the best way to extend the experience. The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua makes this transition effortless. The resort itself is an opportunity for exploration. Perhaps your ideal respite is spending your days splashing along the tide. Or maybe romance is getting lost on the property’s grounds, picking up a hibiscus for your hair along the way. When you want to unwind, visit the resort’s spa to settle mind and body. Try an open-air Lomi Lomi massage, which uses long strokes to restore well-being. At some point you will have to return home, but before you go, take the essence of the Island with you. Mementos such as a woven palm bag, Kukui bead leis, handmade cookies, palm fans, beach towels and flip-flops will ensure the spirit of Aloha always stays with you. Get InspIred Visit ritzcarlton.com/weddings to see how dream weddings unfold around the world. c e l e b r at i n g l o c a l a n d c u lt u r a l t r a d i t i o n s weaving cultural influences throughout your wedding celebration adds a richness and meaning to the experience that will be appreciated by friends and family alike. Whether it’s serving regional fare, nodding ◗ Birds of a Feather ◗ When couples wed at The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow, they partake in a long-standing tradition of releasing white doves. Right after vows are recited during the ceremony, the duo ventures to the hotel’s 12th-floor terrace, which overlooks the Kremlin and Red Square. Here, each holds a white dove, a symbol of peace, freedom and love, and simultaneously lets it go into the night sky. pHoToGRApHS (THIS pAGE) By THINKSToCK Down-Home Flavor What could be more Southern than a hospitality suite at The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta? Just before the wedding, the couple’s friends and family gather to gab and grab a snack in a room filled with Southern favorites like Coca-Cola, Georgia peanuts, peanut brittle and peach tarts. Magnolias and hydrangeas, iconic Southern blooms, dress up the suite as well as the ceremony and reception rooms. In keeping with local flair, tiny pieces of wood from native trees serve as place card holders. No celebration here would be complete without some good old-fashioned cooking. Menu highlights include Southern-fried chicken, slaw, buttermilk mashed potatoes and fried green tomatoes. Indelible Decoration As an ode to the Qatari heritage, Sharq Village and Spa hosts a henna party for the bride and the women in her wedding party. Two nights before the nuptials, the ladies gather to paint the bride’s hands and arms in green ink as a way to bestow luck and good wishes upon her for a blessed new life. barrel with a wooden mallet and serving the drink to everyone present. The round lid, or “kagami,” means harmony and “biraki” means “to open.” This custom is a means to wish the pair harmony and good fortune. School Ties Collegiate spirit sets the stage for brides and grooms at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas, which has the largest reception ballroom in the city. The University of Texas longhorn steer mascot has been known to rev up partygoers at the reception. As a sweet surprise for the groom, and depending on his college allegiance, the groom’s cake might depict the clock tower of the University of Texas at Austin, the Texas A&M University football stadium or Texas Christian University’s mascot, the Horned Frog. Brides show their Lone Star pride by kicking up their heels in white cowboy boots. ◗ ◗ to local customs or including an age-old tradition, here, we share ways in which Ritz-Carlton properties around the world have paid homage to the areas they call home by way of the weddings they create. ◗ In Good Spirits At The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo, couples who want to incorporate Japanese tradition may have a Kagami-Biraki ceremony before their reception. This 300-year-old practice involves breaking the lid of a sake ◗ Hit Parade The rhythm of a wedding at The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans is set by the beat of a brass band, or second line. In true Big Easy fashion, the band marches, along with the entire wedding party and guests, through the streets and into the ballroom to announce the nuptials. Louisiana brides like to have a little fun at the expense of their single bridesmaids. The wedding cake is baked with cake pulls, tiny charms hidden inside and attached to ribbons streaming from the cake. Right before the cake cutting, each bridesmaid pulls out a ribbon and hopes she doesn’t get the thimble, or “old maid” charm. She’d much rather receive the wedding band charm, signifying she’ll be the next to marry, the wishbone charm for good luck or the heart charm for new romance. W E d d I N G S B y T h e R i T z - C A R lT O N 65 your ritz-carlton wedding Wedding Directory United States Arizona Dove Mountain Mike Kass 520-572-3100 [email protected] Phoenix Carla-Risha Wright 602-522-6630 [email protected] California Half Moon Bay Laurie Shields 650-712-7693 [email protected] Laguna Niguel Steven Szenasi 949-240-5029 [email protected] Lake Tahoe Andrea Daly 530-562-3014 [email protected] Los Angeles Greg Meyers 310-957-7277 [email protected] Marina del Rey Cindy Kim 310-574-4372 [email protected] San Francisco Johanna Philipps 415-364-3469 [email protected] Co lo r a d o Bachelor Gulch Syd Sexton 303-312-3834 [email protected] Denver Syd Sexton 303-312-3834 [email protected] F lo r i da Amelia Island Anastasia Stone 904-491-6765 [email protected] 66 w e d d i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n Coconut Grove, Miami Monica Ciffoni 786-470-1202 [email protected] Fort Lauderdale Brooke Bassett 954-302-6456 [email protected] Key Biscayne, Miami Elda Brouwer 305-365-4212 [email protected] Naples Lydia J. Redmond 239-598-6621 [email protected] Naples Golf Lydia J. Redmond 239-598-6621 [email protected] Orlando Jennifer Sharpe 407-393-4102 [email protected] H awa i i Texas Lo u i s i a n a Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C . M a s s ach u s e t t s Pentagon City Lauren Mulvey 703-412-2722 [email protected] Kapalua Akiko Nakazato 808-665-7208 [email protected] New Orleans Amy L. Odinet 504-670-2837 [email protected] Boston Laura Fox 617-574-7106 [email protected] Missouri St. Louis Robin Albach 314-719-1413 [email protected] N e w Yo r k Battery Park Jocelyn McCarthy 917-790-2403 [email protected] Palm Beach Nancy Salatto Deighan 561-540-4961 [email protected] Central Park Rachael Freedland 212-521-6051 [email protected] Sarasota Chris Starman 941-309-2167 [email protected] Westchester Kasey Miller 914-467-5821 [email protected] South Beach Francy Silva 786-276-4064 [email protected] North Carolina Georgia Atlanta Robin Kreitner 770-619-5227 [email protected] Buckhead Kristen Swidrak 404-495-2684 [email protected] Reynolds Plantation Cecilia DeAngelis 706-467-7090 [email protected] Charlotte Kimberly Werner 704-972-4452 [email protected] Oh i o Cleveland David Rabinsky 216-902-5240 [email protected] P e n n s y lva n i a Philadelphia Staci Gussis 215-523-8255 [email protected] Dallas Angela Morgan 214-922-4718 [email protected] Georgetown Melissa Palma 202-912-4177 [email protected] Tysons Corner Alicia Weir 703-917-5485 [email protected] Washington D.C. Amal Zaari 202-974-5536 [email protected] Canada o n ta r i o Toronto Heather Jonasson 416-572-8057 [email protected] Mexico, Caribbean & South America C ayma n I s l a n d s Grand Cayman Camila Chamorro 504-252-9016 [email protected] Chile Santiago Angelica Blana 56 2 4708545 [email protected] J ama i ca Jamaica Karen Stephenson 876-953-2800 [email protected] Mexico Cancun Williams Pérez 011 52 998 881 0714 [email protected] P u e rto R i co San Juan Paola Soto 787-253-8076 [email protected] S t. T h o m a s St. Thomas Andy Cisick 340-715-9037 [email protected] Asia-Pacific China Beijing Amanda Xu 8610 5908 8929 [email protected] Beijing, Financial Street Lynn Tan 86 10 6629 6668 [email protected] Guangzhou Lilian Wu 86 20 38136846 [email protected] Hong Kong Lucia Shum 852-2263-2388 [email protected] Sanya Teresa Zhou 86 898 8858 6651 [email protected] Shanghai Calvin Xiao 8621 6279 8888 ext. 7941 [email protected] Shanghai, Pudong June Ren 86 21 20201100 [email protected] *A Partner Hotel Shenzhen Agnes Tan 86 755 8448 7059 [email protected] Indonesia Bali, Bulgari Hotels & Resorts* Mira Kusumawardani 61 361 847 1000, ext: 6523 [email protected] Jakarta, Mega Kuningan Fatia Harun 62 21 25518854 [email protected] Jakarta, Pacific Place Erlinda Christiany 62 21 25501969 [email protected] J a pa n Osaka Kenji Shimizu 81 6 6343 7000 [email protected] Tokyo Hikaru Yabuki 81 3 3423 8000 [email protected] Ko r e a Seoul Sook Hyun Oh 82 2 3451 8214 [email protected] M a l ay s i a Kuala Lumpur Magdalene Loh 603 2142 8000 [email protected] Singapore Singapore Lim Wanyi 65 6434 5098 [email protected] Thailand Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Roberta Pellacci 66 2 260 6482 [email protected] Europe Germany Berlin Stefanie Czub 49 30 33 777 6048 [email protected] Wolfsburg Rebecca Floeter 49 5361 60 6017 [email protected] Ireland Powerscourt, County Wicklow Breffne Costello 353 1 274 9626 [email protected] I ta ly Milan, Bulgari Hotels & Resorts* Martina Ventura 0039 02 805805209 [email protected] Portugal Sintra Madalena Vaz Pinto 351 219 249 003 [email protected] R u ss i a Moscow Olga Zubkova 7 495 225 8888 [email protected] S pa i n Abama Filipa Carvalho De Sousa 34 922 126 843 [email protected] Hotel Arts Barcelona Noelia Moreno 34 93 483 8076 [email protected] Hotel Ritz Madrid* Gloria Garrido 34 91 701 67 72 [email protected] Turkey Istanbul Baris Atik 90 212 334 4414 [email protected] united kingdom The Ritz London* Pamela Debattista 44 20 7300 2507 [email protected] Middle East Bahrain Bahrain Ms. Angela D'silva 00973 1758 6712 [email protected] Egypt Sharm El Sheikh Michael Narouz 0020 2 37605626 7 8 [email protected] Om a n Al Bustan Palace Ishrat Yasin 968 24764272 [email protected] Q ata r Doha Noura Kharati 974 4484 8353 [email protected] Sharq Village & Spa Linda Mwaffak 974 4425 6666 [email protected] S AUDI ARA B IA Riyadh Mikel Ibrahim 966 1 802 8020 [email protected] U n i t e d A r a b Em i r at e s Dubai Sylvia Schmetz 971 4 318 6448 [email protected] Dubai International Financial Centre Mahmoud Abualsoud 971 43722624 [email protected] w e d d i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n 67 real weddings · Amelia Island Beach Chic An LA coupLe brings HoLLywood gLAmour to fLoridA’s AmeLiA isLAnd Bride & Groom: Evolyn Brooks and Gary Mack Location: The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island PhotoGraPhers: Bradford and Melanie Watson, La Dolce Vita Studio ( ladolceblog.com) 68 w e d d i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n during a vacation in florida, Los Angeles couple Evolyn Brooks and Gary Mack fell in love with the easy charm of Amelia Island. “When I saw the winding road that went to The Ritz-Carlton, I knew that was where I wanted to be married,” says Evolyn, a television producer. Gary, who co-owns a corporate event planning company, agreed. “We wanted to mix the glam of LA with the calm of the ocean — I wanted it to feel like guests were at a Hollywood party,” Evolyn says. And that’s the exact ambiance created for the couple and their guests. At 7 p.m. on a balmy August evening, the couple’s 60 guests gathered on the palm-studded oceanfront lawn as the two exchanged vows. For the reception in the hotel’s ballroom, the resort’s team created a modern Tinseltown affair, with a sleek loungelike setting and Clockwise from top: A festive pagoda faces the ocean. The bride created beautiful handcrafted programs bearing the couple’s initials. Calla lilies, orchids and roses in sunny shades of orange and yellow added a splash of color. Evolyn’s nieces, Imani and Imari Brooks, were darling as junior bridesmaids. A lineup of pretty peep toes for the bridesmaids. And the bride channeling a Hollywood starlet in a Rivini lace gown and handmade cathedral-length veil. w E d d I n g s B y t h e r i t z - C a r lt o n 69 real weddings · Amelia Island “A lot of our friends and family stayed a few extra days to enjoy the beach, the hotel, and explore the island.” — Evolyn Brooks sexy club lighting for guests to mix and mingle. Furthering the movie theme, guests took photos on a red carpet and sat at tables named after the couple’s favorite romantic films, like Mahogany. “Evolyn and I both love to travel and enjoy food around the world,” Gary says, so the resort’s chefs created an internationally influenced menu. Among the stations: Southern comfort serving pulled barbecued pork, Mediterranean with barley risotto and Asian featuring orange chicken and Cantonese-style beef. The newlyweds pronounced it pure A-list. be featured in a future issue Visit ritzcarlton.com/weddings and learn how you can have your celebration featured in a future issue of Weddings by The Ritz-Carlton magazine. 70 w E D D i n G S B y t h e r i t z - C a r lt o n Clockwise from top left: Escort cards designed to look like movie tickets reflected the Hollywood theme. Just before the ceremony, the bride and groom spent a moment alone enjoying the beach. The three-tiered vanilla and lemon wedding cake dazzles with orange and amber sugar flowers. A creative movie-inspired poster announced the newlyweds. Dessert of mini pecan pie brought Southern flair to the Florida affair. And gold favor boxes of Godiva chocolates made for a deliciously sweet ending. ADVERTISeMENT The Registry w eddin g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n Your essential guide to planning the perfect wedding ACCESSORIES Aaron Basha 212-935-1960 aaronbasha.com Benchmark Rings 205-345-0555 benchmarkrings.com Christian Bauer 800-245-1079 christianbauer.us Erwin Pearl 212-889-7410 erwinpearl.com Hamilton Jewelers 609-771-6010 hamiltonjewelers.com Natalie K 800-688-6101 nataliek.com Precision Set 972-385-7032 precisionset.com Todd Reed 800-376-3609 toddreed.com William Goldberg 212-980-4343 williamgoldberg.com Private Label by G 800-858-3338 privatelabelbyg.com Zultanite Gems 954-854-7711 zultanite.org St. Pucchi 800-932-0249 stpucchi.com Watters 972-404-0143 watters.com CRYSTAL Crystal Classics 614-430-8180 crystalclassics.com Riedel 888-474-3335 riedel.com FASHION Harold Clarke Couture Atelier 504-638-1579 haroldclarke.com Yumi Katsura Couture 888-705-9864 yumikatsuracouture.com OTHER Les Cinq Amandes (The Five Almonds LLC) 877-328-6757 thefivealmonds.com PHOTOGRAPHY Brett Matthews Photography 516-621-4242 brettmatthews.com PLANNING INVITATIONS Beyond Inviting 760-436-5722 beyondinviting.com Hannah Handmade 800-670-6703 hannah-handmade.com Kleinfeld Bridal 646-633-4300 kleinfeldbridal.com Paper Orchid 866-280-2125 paperorchidstationary.com Love Jay Girls 213-293-5403 lovejaygirls.com Vera Wang Fine Papers 800-985-6581 williamarthur.com Luxe Event Rentals & Décor 718-629-6909 luxeeventrentals.com our pleasure Princess Brides dreams of a royal wedding really can come true The elaborate nuptials of prince William and Kate Middleton will continue to inspire brides and grooms for years to come. So, The Ritz-Carlton, Washington D.C. is re-creating the magic with the Royal Wedding Experience. As part of the package, the bride to be receives a replica sapphire and diamond engagement ring and a custom-designed wedding gown as well as a diamond tiara like the one worn by Kate. Members of the bridal party get to dress the part, too, by choosing gowns from a special Royal Wedding Wardrobe collection at Saks Fifth Avenue that includes pieces from British design houses such as Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney. The theme is carried through to the property’s ballroom, which is decorated to closely resemble Westminster Abbey, and to the special wedding feast. Plus, the bride and groom are treated to 12 bottles of Dom Pérignon Vintage 2000 Champagne in a commemorative case, and a stay in the Royal Wedding Suite. 72 w e d d i n g s b y t h e r i t z - c a r lt o n photograph by getty images “I believe the very essence of the ashoka is to bring joy into the lives of people.” Ashoka. The exclusive diamond cut by William Goldberg. U.S. Patent #D418444 williamgoldberg.com · 888-827-2927 William Goldberg Discreetly known for the world’s most breathtaking diamond jewelry.