Love on Maui Beautiful Table Sweet Treats Charming Gifts

WEDDINGS by JANUARY – JUNE 2012

Love on Maui

Beautiful Table

Sweet Treats

Charming Gifts

YOUR DREAMS. OUR PLEASURE. K ATALIE

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Team One Advertising CMY Cycle 2 9900 ©2012 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel©2012 Company, L.L.C. Team One Advertising CMY Cycle 2 9900 ©2012 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel©2012 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

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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.

Ritz-Carlton, and the lion and crown symbol, are registered trademarks of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. www.ElizabethStJohn.com in the United States of America and other jurisdictions. Weddings by Ritz Carlton, Winter 2012 Issue: Aaron Basha advertisement (Right Hand Read)

Aaron Basha Boutique • 685 Madison Avenue • New York • 212.935.1960 • www.aaronbasha.com

Athens • Dubai • Hong Kong • Italy • Kiev • London • Moscow • Qatar • Tokyo WEDDINGS 28 by VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 1

58 54

FEATURES DEPARTMENTS

42 Going to Great Lengths YOUR DREAMS REAL WEDDINGS Long sleeves. Cap sleeves. Strapless. When it comes to the perfect wedding dress, brides have abundant choices. Take a look. 19 inspiration 68 beach chic No wedding dreams are too A Los Angeles couple 48 Let Them Eat ... Cake? big, as you’ll see from these returns to The Ritz-Carlton, Serving wedding cake is a tradition in many parts of the world, real Ritz-Carlton stories Amelia Island for their I dos. but couples everywhere are also tempting their guests’ taste from around the world. buds in fresh, delightful ways. OUR PLEASURE 24 jewelry 54 The Beautiful Table Small 72 princess brides Your wedding décor is an opportunity to surround your guests tokens of one of life’s The Ritz-Carlton, with elements of your own personal style. We share ideas biggest moments. Washington D.C. is making designed to dazzle. it possible for you to enjoy 28 beauty your own royal wedding. 58 Isle Do Advice for With the ocean and lush, tropical landscape as a backdrop, achieving that bridal glow. The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is a spectacular setting for a destination wedding ... and one made even more unforgettable 33 on the runway with special local touches. The latest looks from today’s top bridal gown designers.

14 WEDDINGS BY THE RITZ-CARLTON 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 outlining key questions to ask the professionals you’ll be hiring to inspiration for brides and grooms now also extends online. At make your wedding dreams come true. What do you ask a wed- ritzcarlton.com/weddings, we’ve created a portal for couples ding planner to make sure he or she is a good fit for you and your seeking unforgettable ways to celebrate their Big Day. This new intended? What do you ask a photographer so your wedding- wedding resource presents a world of ideas in three distinct sec- day photos turn out exactly as you’d like? These “10 Questions” tions: Destinations, Trends & Traditions, and Tools & Inspiration. sheets are the perfect first step in envisioning your celebration. In Destinations, you’ll find slideshows of weddings in breathtaking Ritz-Carlton locations around the world, with imaginative Happy planning! And remember ... ways to weave local traditions and the locale itself into your celebration. The latest bridal gowns and accessories are a highlight Your Dreams. Our Pleasure. 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, Jamie hoffman stationery, photography and even makeup tricks. As a spe- editor in Chief cial treat, we also offer complimentary downloadable sheets

Find wedding-day inspiration on ritz.carlton.com/weddings Sonoran Dream Color Magic Real Weddings Discover a desert We show you how Glimpse the wedding, where to cast a spell on celebration of two mountains, your wedding day food lovers who saguaros and with the perfect said their I dos at blazing sunsets are palette. The Ritz-Carlton, the backdrop. Laguna Niguel. · Plus, download our Complimentary Guides covering the 10 Questions to ask your photographer, stationer and wedding planner.

16 weDDings by the ritz-carlton photography (top) by J. anthony Martinez, (bottoM, left to right) Mel barlow, Dan VerMillion, bob anD Dawn DaVis Welcome Home!

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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 weddings by the ritz-carlton 19 your dreams · inspiration

Q&A

Calming wedding-day jitters any number of treatments can Besides massage, are there The run-up to the actual “I dos” can be a stressful time for a prospective be modified for two people. For other spa treatments that bride and groom. That’s why more and more couples are indulging in example, we have a four-hand men enjoy? spa services prior to their nuptials. We talked with Spa Director Kristin massage — using two therapists Yes! We offer a Black Tie facial treat- Carpenter, of EAU Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Palm Beach, about the on one person — that can be ment that includes exfoliation and trend. Her insights offer great ideas as you plan your big day: done for couples. We also have a masque to restore their energy. a Twilight Wind Down package, How are couples integrating spa their fiancee, as well. That’s why specifically designed for couples, so you have treatment services into their weddings? we offer a variety of couple’s mas- that includes caviar and cham- areas that are open air? It’s becoming commonplace to see sages and facial treatments, so the pagne, a 60-minute soothing Our property is particularly blessed brides and grooms come in together. couple can share intimate time and massage with champagne-infused because we have indoor/outdoor I think men are becoming more and unwind before their wedding. body oil — and the couple can garden villa suites for couples, so more comfortable with the notion share our oversized soaking bath they can enjoy beautiful garden of pampering and relaxation before do couples favor any and wind down in the open air views in an open-air, but private their big day — and they are seeing particular treatments? for a night under the stars. setting. That type of natural envi- it as another chance to bond with There are so many options, because It’s so romantic. ronment also helps to de-stress.

20 weddings by the ritz-carlton sTay and geT away Tropical TasTe One emerging trend: traveling to a Ritz-Carlton property for a wedding or honeymoon stay, but at The Ritz-Carlton Key using the totality of the surrounding environs Biscayne, Miami, weddings for the ceremony or reception. are trending toward the tropi- For example, at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand cal, with exotic plants and vivid Cayman, couples are opting for the property’s color schemes. and, the theme wedding planners to scope out picturesque extends to libations, too. here’s local spots in town for the actual ceremony, then having the guests come back to the hotel a cocktail concocted by the for the reception. mixologists at the property for At Abama Golf & Spa Resort in Tenerife, tropical weddings: 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 com- bined 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.

Lucky 8’s in the chinese culture, the number 8 is lucky, symbolizing good fortune … and the number 88 is mango mojito doubly so. that’s why a couple 6 to 8 fresh mint leaves at The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong 1 oz. light rum (bacardi silver) requested an 88-pound cream 1 oz. mango puree cake for their reception. ¼ oz. sugar (fructose/ executive Pastry chef richard liquid sugar)

long tailor-made the towering ¼ c. soda water confection with seasonal fresh muddle the mint leaves in a fruits, ultimately ending with tall glass. add ice and a mint a five-tier delight. as a frame of sprig for garnish. 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 weDDings by THe R i T z-C a R lT on 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 old- fashioned 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 monogrammedr itz-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.

M) M) The bling’s The Thing hy.co P The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas to the Great Bay Ballroom was recently created a one-of-a-kind also carpeted and lined by yel- hotogra P wedding that is a hallmark of the low flowers. The sunny color was above-and-beyond dedication it also integrated into the reception

hy (blueglass imparts for wedding experiences. decor (left). P During the planning process, Among the many special touches:

hotogra the bride and groom told the staff an air-conditioned, glass-enclosed P that they wanted three things: the room was custom-built onto the color yellow, “bling” and an ele- terrace outside of the ballroom. In gant experience that was unique addition to including a large stage and over-the-top. for a band, it also had a dance floor hotos by blue glass glass blue by hotos P ),

M Because there was no upper with a monogrammed-marble

.co limit to their budget, the old rules center. The bars were also custom- entsVI of wedding planning didn’t apply. made with the couple’s monogram V ene J So, together with vendors, the and are now at the groom’s family

ents ( ents resort completely transformed the home as décor. The monogram was V ceremony and reception venues. also prominently displayed on spe- For the ceremony, as an example, cialty dessert displays, bathrobes gn by Jen e gn by I es

D the cliff-side gazebo was carpeted, and towels during the couple’s say. draped and surrounded by flow- According to the couple, the DDIng

We ers. Pictured at right, the walkway event was “blinged” to perfection.

More online Visit ritzcarlton.com/weddings to get more ideas for your big day.

22 W e DDIngs by T he R i T z-C a R lT o N IllustratIon by tracI Daberko Kenneth Winston

Private Label By G Bridal Design House

PrivateLabelByG.com facebook.com/PrivateLabelByG [email protected] your dreams · jewelry How Charming small tokens of life’s 2 big moment

as a gift for the bride or bridal party, charms can tell the story of a 3 couple, their wedding or the unforgettable setting of their destination 1 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 As if your charms. “Naturally, they’re decora- beach wedding tive, but there’s an emotional and wasn’t sentimental value that you attach to 4 them. It’s about what they symbolize.” memorable Here, we share a selection of charms enough ... that are equally playful and poignant, making it practically impossible to choose. But who says you have to select just one? 8

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 5 (charmco.com). 8. 18-karat gold and pearl 7 oyster charm ($1,300), by tiffany & Co. (tiffany.com). 6

24 weDDings by the ritz-carlton 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. 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 1 2 3 4 (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 5 6 7 8 (charmco.com). 11. the Chinese symbol for good luck, this one in 18-karat gold and enamel ($675), by tiffany & Co. Tiny reminders of your love and affection . . . (tiffany.com).12. a globe charm for a worldly bride, in 14-karat gold ($718), . . . symbols of joy, precious moments, the past, your future. 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). 9 10 11 12 16. Celebrate your love of travel — or your destination wedding — with this 18-karat airplane charm ($1,500), by tiffany & Co. (tiffany.com).

13 14 15 16

26 weDDings by the ritz-carlton photographs by Dan vermillion ATHANNAHHANDMADE

ATHANNAHHANDMADE

AT HANNAH HANDMADETM

AWARD-WINNING CUSTOM INVITATIONS & DESIGN SINCE 1991

ATHANNAHHANDMADE

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 · beauty Picture Perfect MAKEUP ADVICE TO ACHIEVE THAT PERFECT BRIDAL GLOW

Earthy , “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

1. Sheer lip shine in loving, 2. protective mineral foundation with SPF 17 and 3. interference color rich shadow in ﬂ ax, all by Being True (beingtrue.com). Silk chi on 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 WEDDINGS BY THE RITZ-CARLTON PHOTOGRAPHED BY BILLY KIDD, MAKEUP PHOTOGRAPHED BY DAN VERMILLION 516.621.4242 BrettMatthews.com Destinations Worldwide · beauty

Urban Sophisticate 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 ele- vated ... 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.

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 WEDDINGS BY THE RITZ-CARLTON PHOTOGRAPH BY BILLY KIDD, MAKEUP BY DAN VERMILLION RITZCARLTON_WEDDINGS.indd 2 12/1/11 5:47 PM · beauty

Beachy 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 cen- tered 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.

1. Reﬁ ned 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 WEDDINGS BY THE RITZ-CARLTON PHOTOGRAPH BY BILLY KIDD, MAKEUP BY DAN VERMILLION your dreams · on the runway

1 reem 2 monique acra LhuiLLier 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 all- over fabric. Among a surfeit of femi- nine embellishment, ruffles, placed bows and rosettes, ethereal overlays 5 aLvina of tulle and lace, and waist-defining vaLenta sashes and beading stood out. For the glamorous bride, designers nodded

1. ivory tulle V-neck gown 3 christos 4 LeLa 6 aLfred angeLo 7 amsaLe with organza and crystal rose 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-and- flare 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).

photographs courtesy of bridal gown designers weddings by the ritz-carlton 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 2 roMonA KevezA sAnto

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 appli- qués, 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 overlook- ing 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 5 CArolinA gowns as utterly HerrerA unique as you are

JennY PACKHAM st. PuCCHi MArCHesA Anne BArge 1. Off-white silk peau de soie 3 4 6 7 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).

36 weddI ngs by the ritz-carlton 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 s P ecial promotional section DESIGNER profiles

◗ jewelry Stunning, Bringing out the best in a wine’s bouquet: Naturally Riedel Vitis In the hands of jewelry designer Todd Reed, glasses. raw diamonds never looked more gorgeous

at a time when people seem particularly enamored with high-tech manufacturing and meticulously controlled artifice, it’s refresh- ing to see natural, unadorned beauty. Maybe that’s why Todd Reed is such a success. Since 1992, Reed, a goldsmith and designer, ◗ Crystal Todd Reed has turned convention on its ear, crafting one-of-a-kind wedding and engagement rings using raw, uncut Raise Your Glass diamonds. The result: rings that brim with individuality and per- Riedel blends art and science in stemware that sonality, reflecting the spirit of the people who choose to wear them. brings out the best in wines and champagnes Working with recycled 18-karat gold as well as palladium, platinum and silver in his studio in Boulder, Colo., Reed focuses on creating a A glass is such a simple thing. But in the hands of a master natural harmony between the materials. craftsman, a glass can become something more than a mere vessel. “When I began in this art form, I became interested in these It becomes something elegant, refined. Something that reveals the uncut gems as a way to reinterpret diamonds in our current society true nature of that which it holds. and to explore them throughout history,” he says. “I wanted to bring That’s the case with Riedel Crystal. For more than 11 genera- back the natural colors, organic cuts and timelessness of ancient and tions, the family-owned international manufacturer has developed antique pieces which were worn by royals and ordinary people alike.” glasses that meld science and art, offering stemware that show- To that end, he carefully selects natural diamonds in a variety cases the beauty and bounty of wines. For example, the company of colors and sizes, building the rings around the unusual shapes, creates bowl shapes with different rim diameters and openings that instead of forcing design to accommodate a typical diamond that has accentuate the bouquet, signature notes and overall taste of each been honed and chipped and beveled. It’s an organic process befitting varietal. So, pairings of the right glass to the right wine create a the organic materials he uses. And it’s a process that has design aficio- perfect experience. nados clamoring for more. According to Maximilian Riedel, CEO of Riedel Crystal of To see more examples of Todd Reed’s stunning jewelry, visit America, the glass then “becomes the loudspeaker for the bever- toddreed.com. age,” 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.

specI al promotional section DESIGNER profiles

Q BRIDAL GOWNS Q FLOWER GIRLS One-of- The Littlest a-Kind Details Love Jay Girls ensures that design leads Design the way for the first one down the aisle Harold Clarke takes brides , beyond the pages of no more scrutinized member of the bridal magazines party than the fl ower girl. The fi rst person to walk the aisle, and typically the youngest, to create the fl ower girl does more than just scatter wedding gowns fl ower petals. She sets the style and tone for that are wholly the entire processional. unique No wonder so many of them get nervous. Shana and Rebecca, owners of Love Jay Girls. To help ease fl ower girl jitters, Love Jay Girls specializes in creating quasi-couture , -- dresses for this all-important member of the wedding ensemble. poring over magazines, trying to anticipate Playful, vibrant and fashion-forward, the dresses are designed in a trends as they clip together a look book for that way that helps make the special little girls feel wholly comfortable perfect once-in-a-lifetime day. But according when they’re the center of attention walking down the aisle. to Harold Clarke, head designer and owner Instead of the typical satin and tulle of fl ower girl dresses, of Harold Clarke Couturier Atelier, there’s Shana Cutler, a co-owner of Love Jay Girls, says she and her part- another approach. ner, Rebecca Gold, use light, comfortable fabrics, amplifying color, “If a bride-to-be takes her cues from what’s styling, textures and tones to complement the appearance of the in the bridal stores or magazines, she is only rest of the bridal party’s ward- Harold Clarke seeing what is currently on trend — along robe. The result: a look that is just with every other bride in the world,” he says. as at home walking down the run- “What’s on trend now won’t be six months from now. And that way as the wedding aisle. means she’s not getting a dress that’s unique.” “Children have an expression So, instead, Clarke meets with brides to develop a gown design of style,” Cutler says. “We always that speaks to their personal sensibilities, shape and, well, dreams. want to refl ect their playfulness Then, he creates a series of sketches, often using eight or nine in an age-appropriate way — so variations to develop a dialogue with the intended bride. a wedding doesn’t try to force- One of the playful Sometimes, however, he goes directly from the initial consulta- fi t the fl ower girl dress into Love Jay tion to draping a form, working with di erent textures, fabrics and too-adult styling or alternately, Girls’ dress lines to craft a one-of-its-kind gown that easily surpasses any torn- clothing that’s too childlike.” designs. out pages of a look book. “Draping allows for an immediacy — you And given the designs of the can see the vision for a piece that much clearer,” he says. “Then, company’s current collection, gown design is less a science than an art.” An art in which Clarke is fl ower girls the country over can an acknowledged master. relax. And rejoice. For more information or to set up a consultation, visit For more information, or to fi nd haroldclarke.com. a store, visit lovejaygirls.com.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION DESIGNER profiles

Q CONFECTIONS Q WEDDING RINGS A Sweet Dazzling News Precision Set’s intricate engagement and wedding Tradition rings celebrate U.S. artistry and skills Les Cinq Amandes’ - enchanting confections turers are increasingly outsourcing work overseas. But it’s gratify- lend charm and meaning ing to know that one company still produces stunning wedding to wedding celebrations 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. mid-17th century, Europeans celebrating weddings would o er That’s the case at Dallas-based their guests fi ve confectionary almonds symbolizing wishes for Precision Set, a preeminent health, happiness, wealth, longevity and fertility. bridal jewelry manufacturer with In the subsequent centuries, the treats got a name — dragées — more than 25 years’ experience but the practice remained unchanged. Same five wishes. Same in jewelry creation. The artisans five almonds. at Precision Set learned their Until now. craft at places like Tiffany’s Enter Les Cinq Amandes, a high-end confectionary that spe- and Neiman Marcus before grad- cializes in taking the centuries-old art and updating it, o ering uating to Precision Set, which more than 30 types of dragées in an array of fl avors and colors is renowned for its intricate (in addition to the traditional almond) to create a one-of-its-kind designs, meticulous settings and experience for bridal parties and all special life celebrations. impeccable artistry. The company even updated the set of wishes, o ering brides and More than 30 skilled crafts- grooms health, happiness, peace, longevity and, of course, love. men and designers at Precision The secret to Les Cinq Amandes’ success lies in two areas: the Set work in 18-karat gold and quality of ingredients and the one-on-one design consultation platinum, designing everything that focuses on a breathtaking artistic presentation of the dragée from solitaires to three-stone to guests. To accomplish this, Les Cinq Amandes makes use rings to extraordinary bespoke of the highest-quality ingredients, like grand cru almonds from engagement rings. Precision Set Sicily and the best couture material while employing creative is also known as a prime source skills to ensure that each dragée presentation enchants the visual for impeccably made diamond senses as well as the palate. wedding bands that are crafted to The result: a gift with deep meaning that is also delectable. last a lifetime. According to Buzz Jopling, To set up a consultation, call 1-877-FAVOR57. Or visit fi vealmonds.com. 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 WEDDINGS BY THE RITZ-CARLTON

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

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). 42 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).

weddings by the ritz-carlton 43 Embrace the highs and lows of a dramatic neckline, sweet cap sleeves, an unexpected hem.

This page (left to right): Silk taffeta owng ($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 weddings by the ritz-carlton This page (left to right): Chantilly lace mermaid gown ($4,900), by Carolina Herrera (carolinaherrera.com); and 2.10- carat 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).

Embrace the highs and lows of a dramatic neckline, sweet cap sleeves, an unexpected hem.

weddings by the ritz-carlton 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 sleeves never looked more elegant.

46 WEDDINGS BY THE RITZ-CARLTON Well-armed: Sleek, sheer or in peekaboo lace, long 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. WEDDINGS BY THE RITZ-CARLTON 47 let them eat . . . CWeddings anda cakes gok togethere 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 · New Orleans 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 Executive Pastry 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). Ling by eLLen stRaine 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 ddings by the ritz-carlton 49 this page: Perlée bowls ($170 each), by L’Objet Making “over the top” (l-objet.com). 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 weddings by the ritz-carlton 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, eye- catching 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 weddings by the ritz-carlton Zultanite_Wedding_Dec_10.indd 1 11/29/10 11:47:37 AM the beautiful table 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

bbJ Linen

gold

ubble champagne

4. Highland

54 weddings by thet he ritz-carlton 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 ﬁ ligree help formalize a table set with handmade earthenware plates. Cleopatra-esque jewelry adorns shimmery art deco printed napkins beside a blend of ﬂ atware 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.

’ - . “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 table The aromatic fragrance of roasted co ee beans in glass hurricanes perk up guests’ senses. Recycled burlap co ee bags act as runners and 2 W , 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 CREATE THE LOOK: name cleverly belted around it. The end result? Eco-lovely. 1 CREATE THE LOOK:

Tablescape by Tropical Occasions Tablescape by Canvas and Mountain Occasions & Canopy Events (tropicaloccasions.com and 7 (canvasandcanopy.com). mountainoccasions.com). Photo Text by Linda Seidman Photo by Jose Villa by Jose Villa (josevillaphoto.com). (josevillaphoto.com). 5. Menu card, by 2u Collection 1. Ivory Ashley table (2ucollection.com). 6. Royal wine linen, by BBJ Linen 4 glass ($230 pair), by Lalique (bbjlinen.com). (lalique.com). 7. Squeeze vase ($350), 8 2. Manhattan Gold by Orrefors, from Crystal Classics tableware ($170), by (crystalclassics.com). 8. Rattan Michael Wainwright, charger ($10), from Pier 1 (pier1.com). from Michael C. Fina 6 (michaelcﬁ na.com). 3. Bubble champagne glass ($130), by Kim Seybert (kimseybert.com), and 4. Highland 5 plate ($137), by Juane de Chrome, 3 from Devine (devinecorp.net). 55

5. Organza

56 ﬂ oralscape 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 ra a 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.”

CREATE THE LOOK:

Tablescape designed 3 by Belle Fleur New York (belleﬂ eurny.com). 2 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 1 Karan, from Lenox (lenox.com).

, , seasonal fl owers in bold colors. An eclectic blend of yellow Oncidium CREATE THE LOOK: orchids, pin cushion Protea, dahlias, Gerbera daisies, gold Dendrobium and kumquats on branches are lit from below, giving o a dramatic e ect Tablescape designed by Kathryn Kenna, at night. Glass cylinders with votive candles add a warm glow. “When The Wedding Resource deciding on your table palette, choose your color fi rst, then select table (kathrynkenna.com). linens and build upwards from there,” suggests Leslie Grady, event and Flowers by Leslie Grady Special Event Design fl oral designer for Leslie Grady Special Event Design. Incorporate con- (510-418-9118). Photo temporary details such as square-shaped tables and gold glass chargers by Suzy Clement (suzyclement.com). with spice-colored banded napkins. Modern, cheerful hues enliven neu- 4. Vinum wine glasses tral surroundings while adding visual interest. ($125 for set of 8), by Riedel, from Crystal Classics (crystalclassics. com). 5. Organza Chiavari chair back and 5 cushion, by Resource One (resourceoneinc.com). 6 6. Invitation, by Ceci New 4 York (cecinewyork.com).

WEDDINGS BY THE RITZ-CARLTON 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).

What if ... the treasured traditions of an island paradise inspired every detail of your destination isle do wedding?

58 WEDDINGS BY THE RITZ-CARLTON On her: Silver and gold embroidered Cherry Blossom gown ($5,250), by Claire Pettibone

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

What if ... the . In Hawaii, legend recalls a tale of the demigod treasured traditions “Maui,” who formed the Hawaiian Islands by reaching into the sea and pulling them of an island paradise from its depths. The custom of storytelling is integral to the Hawaiian way of life. inspired every detail And on the following pages, a wedding at of your destination The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua demonstrates how entwining local folklore and tradition wedding? into the fabric of a wedding celebration makes it an intricate tapestry of past, present and future.

TEXT BY JENNIFER TZESES PHOTOGRAPHY BY J. ANTHONY MARTINEZ

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). 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 by Louis Glick; plus, .60-carat diamond and white gold wedding band ($3,212); and 22-karat gold

($5,500), by Pratima Designs, all three from Hutton’s Fine Jewelers (huttonsjewelers.com). Wedding setup and flowers by Asa Flowers (asaflowers.com).

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 APacific 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 DDinG s by T he riT z-carlTOn 61 iving among lush foliage, pristine beach- front and a limitless seascape, the ocean-side Beach House Lawn lays the groundwork for a naturally stunning reception. An airy tent is the bestL 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 hand- tied 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 weddings by the ritz-carlton 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 Birds of a Feather Jewelers (huttonsjewelers.com). On him: Board shorts ($54), by J. Crew (jcrew.com). When couples wed at The Ritz-Carlton, Bottom Left (on her): Pearl and diamond earrings ($2,100), by Mikimoto, from Baron Moscow, they partake in a long-standing & Leeds, Lahaina (baronandleeds.com). tradition of releasing white doves. Right Bottom Right (on her): Silk tunic ($204), after vows are recited during the ceremony, by Hale Bob (halebob.com); diamond and 24-karat gold hoop earrings (price on the duo ventures to the hotel’s 12th-floor request), by Yossi Harari, from Hutton’s terrace, which overlooks the Kremlin and Fine Jewelers (huttonsjewelers.com). Red Square. Here, each holds a white dove, Styling by Pauline Leonard a symbol of peace, freedom and love, and Hair and makeup by Pia Sundquist simultaneously lets it go into the night sky. Photographed on location at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua

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. StayingI 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 As an ode to the Qatari heritage, Sharq your hair along the way. When you want to unwind, visit Village and Spa hosts a henna party for the the resort’s spa to settle mind and body. Try an open-air bride and the women in her wedding party. Lomi Lomi massage, which uses long strokes to restore Two nights before the nuptials, the ladies well-being. At some point you will have to return home, gather to paint the bride’s hands and arms but before you go, take the essence of the Island with you. in green ink as a way to bestow luck and Mementos such as a woven palm bag, Kukui bead leis, good wishes upon her for a blessed new life. 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. celebrating local and cultural traditions weaving cultural influences throughout your wedding celebra- to local customs or including an age-old tradition, here, we share ways in tion adds a richness and meaning to the experience that will be appreciated which Ritz-Carlton properties around the world have paid homage to the by friends and family alike. Whether it’s serving regional fare, nodding areas they call home by way of the weddings they create.

◗ Birds of a Feather ◗ School Ties barrel with a wooden mallet and serving the drink to everyone present. The round lid, When couples wed at The Ritz-Carlton, Collegiate spirit sets the stage for brides or “kagami,” means harmony and “biraki” Moscow, they partake in a long-standing and grooms at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas, means “to open.” This custom is a means to tradition of releasing white doves. Right which has the largest reception ballroom in wish the pair harmony and good fortune. after vows are recited during the ceremony, the city. The University of Texas longhorn the duo ventures to the hotel’s 12th-floor steer mascot has been known to rev up par- terrace, which overlooks the Kremlin and tygoers at the reception. As a sweet surprise Red Square. Here, each holds a white dove, for the groom, and depending on his college a symbol of peace, freedom and love, and allegiance, the groom’s cake might depict simultaneously lets it go into the night sky. the clock tower of the University of Texas at Austin, the Texas A&M University foot- ball 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.

◗ Down-Home Flavor What could be more Southern than a hos- pitality 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 ◗ Hit Parade n Hawaiian, Kapalua means “arms embracing Coca-Cola, Georgia peanuts, peanut brittle the sea,” a reference to the area’s dramatic lava and peach tarts. Magnolias and hydrangeas, The rhythm of a wedding at The Ritz-Carlton, peninsulas. After marrying here, it’s easy to see why iconic Southern blooms, dress up the suite as New Orleans is set by the beat of a brass you might never want to leave this cradle of beauty. well as the ceremony and reception rooms. band, or second line. In true Big Easy fash- StayingI on for your honeymoon is the best way to extend In keeping with local flair, tiny pieces of wood ion, the band marches, along with the entire the experience. The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua makes this from native trees serve as place card hold- wedding party and guests, through the transition effortless. The resort itself is an opportunity for ers. No celebration here would be complete streets and into the ballroom to announce exploration. Perhaps your ideal respite is spending your without some good old-fashioned cooking. the nuptials. Louisiana brides like to have days splashing along the tide. Or maybe romance is getting ◗ Indelible Decoration Menu highlights include Southern-fried a little fun at the expense of their single lost on the property’s grounds, picking up a hibiscus for chicken, slaw, buttermilk mashed potatoes bridesmaids. The wedding cake is baked As an ode to the Qatari heritage, Sharq your hair along the way. When you want to unwind, visit and fried green tomatoes. with cake pulls, tiny charms hidden inside Village and Spa hosts a henna party for the the resort’s spa to settle mind and body. Try an open-air and attached to ribbons streaming from the bride and the women in her wedding party. Lomi Lomi massage, which uses long strokes to restore cake. Right before the cake cutting, each Two nights before the nuptials, the ladies well-being. At some point you will have to return home, ◗ In Good Spirits bridesmaid pulls out a ribbon and hopes gather to paint the bride’s hands and arms but before you go, take the essence of the Island with you. she doesn’t get the thimble, or “old maid” in green ink as a way to bestow luck and Mementos such as a woven palm bag, Kukui bead leis, At The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo, couples who charm. She’d much rather receive the wed- good wishes upon her for a blessed new life. handmade cookies, palm fans, beach towels and flip-flops want to incorporate Japanese tradition ding band charm, signifying she’ll be the will ensure the spirit of Aloha always stays with you. may have a Kagami-Biraki ceremony next to marry, the wishbone charm for good before their reception. This 300-year-old luck or the heart charm for new romance. practice involves breaking the lid of a sake Get InspIred Visit ritzcarlton.com/weddings pHoToGRApHS (THIS pAGE) By THINKSToCK WEddINGS B y T he R i T z-CARlTON to see how dream weddings unfold around the world. 65 your ritz-carlton wedding Wedding Directory United States Coconut Grove, Miami Hawaii Texas Arizona Monica Ciffoni Kapalua Dallas Dove Mountain 786-470-1202 Akiko Nakazato Angela Morgan Mike Kass [email protected] 808-665-7208 214-922-4718 [email protected] [email protected] 520-572-3100 Fort Lauderdale [email protected] Brooke Bassett Louisiana Washington, D.C. New Orleans Georgetown Phoenix 954-302-6456 Amy L. Odinet Melissa Palma Carla-Risha Wright [email protected] 504-670-2837 202-912-4177 602-522-6630 Key Biscayne, Miami [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Elda Brouwer C alifornia 305-365-4212 Massachusetts Pentagon City Boston Half Moon Bay [email protected] Lauren Mulvey Laura Fox Laurie Shields 703-412-2722 Naples 617-574-7106 650-712-7693 [email protected] Lydia J. Redmond [email protected] [email protected] 239-598-6621 Tysons Corner [email protected] Missouri Alicia Weir Laguna Niguel St. Louis Steven Szenasi 703-917-5485 Naples Golf Robin Albach [email protected] 949-240-5029 Lydia J. Redmond 314-719-1413 [email protected] 239-598-6621 [email protected] Washington D.C. [email protected] Amal Zaari Lake Tahoe New York Andrea Daly 202-974-5536 Orlando Battery Park [email protected] 530-562-3014 Jennifer Sharpe Jocelyn McCarthy [email protected] 407-393-4102 917-790-2403 Canada [email protected] [email protected] Los Angeles ontario Greg Meyers Palm Beach Central Park Toronto 310-957-7277 Nancy Salatto Deighan Rachael Freedland Heather Jonasson [email protected] 561-540-4961 212-521-6051 416-572-8057 Marina del Rey [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Cindy Kim Sarasota Westchester 310-574-4372 Chris Starman Kasey Miller Mexico, [email protected] 941-309-2167 914-467-5821 Caribbean & South America San Francisco [email protected] [email protected] Johanna Philipps Cayman Islands South Beach North Carolina Grand Cayman 415-364-3469 Francy Silva Charlotte [email protected] Camila Chamorro 786-276-4064 Kimberly Werner 504-252-9016 Colorado [email protected] 704-972-4452 [email protected] [email protected] Bachelor Gulch Georgia Syd Sexton Chile Atlanta Ohio Santiago 303-312-3834 Robin Kreitner Cleveland [email protected] Angelica Blana 770-619-5227 David Rabinsky 56 2 4708545 Denver [email protected] 216-902-5240 [email protected] Syd Sexton [email protected] Buckhead Jaamaic 303-312-3834 Kristen Swidrak Pennsylvania [email protected] Jamaica 404-495-2684 Philadelphia Karen Stephenson Florida [email protected] Staci Gussis 876-953-2800 Amelia Island 215-523-8255 [email protected] Reynolds Plantation [email protected] Anastasia Stone Cecilia DeAngelis 904-491-6765 706-467-7090 [email protected] [email protected]

66 weddings by the ritz-carlton Mexico Shenzhen Europe united kingdom Cancun Agnes Tan Germany The Ritz London* Williams Pérez 86 755 8448 7059 Berlin Pamela Debattista 011 52 998 881 0714 [email protected] Stefanie Czub 44 20 7300 2507 [email protected] Indonesia 49 30 33 777 6048 [email protected] Puerto Rico Bali, Bulgari Hotels & Resorts* [email protected] San Juan Mira Kusumawardani Middle East Wolfsburg Paola Soto 61 361 847 1000, ext: 6523 Bahrain Rebecca Floeter 787-253-8076 [email protected] Bahrain 49 5361 60 6017 [email protected] Ms. Angela D'silva Jakarta, Mega Kuningan [email protected] 00973 1758 6712 St. Thomas Fatia Harun Ireland [email protected] St. Thomas 62 21 25518854 Powerscourt, County Wicklow Andy Cisick Egypt [email protected] Breffne Costello 340-715-9037 Sharm El Sheikh 353 1 274 9626 [email protected] Jakarta, Pacific Place Michael Narouz Erlinda Christiany [email protected] 0020 2 37605626 7 8 Asia-Pacific 62 21 25501969 Italy [email protected] [email protected] China Milan, Bulgari Hotels & Resorts* Oman Beijing Japan Martina Ventura Al Bustan Palace Amanda Xu Osaka 0039 02 805805209 Ishrat Yasin 8610 5908 8929 Kenji Shimizu [email protected] 968 24764272 [email protected] 81 6 6343 7000 Portugal [email protected] [email protected] Beijing, Financial Street Sintra Qatar Lynn Tan Tokyo Madalena Vaz Pinto Doha 86 10 6629 6668 Hikaru Yabuki 351 219 249 003 Noura Kharati [email protected] 81 3 3423 8000 [email protected] 974 4484 8353 [email protected] Russia [email protected] Guangzhou Moscow Lilian Wu Korea Sharq Village & Spa Olga Zubkova 86 20 38136846 Seoul Linda Mwaffak 7 495 225 8888 [email protected] Sook Hyun Oh 974 4425 6666 82 2 3451 8214 [email protected] [email protected] Hong Kong [email protected] Spain Lucia Shum SAUDI ARABIA Malaysia Abama Riyadh 852-2263-2388 Filipa Carvalho De Sousa [email protected] Kuala Lumpur Mikel Ibrahim Magdalene Loh 34 922 126 843 966 1 802 8020 Sanya 603 2142 8000 [email protected] [email protected] Teresa Zhou [email protected] Hotel Arts Barcelona 86 898 8858 6651 United Arab Emirates Singapore Noelia Moreno [email protected] Dubai Singapore 34 93 483 8076 Sylvia Schmetz Shanghai Lim Wanyi [email protected] 971 4 318 6448 Calvin Xiao 65 6434 5098 Hotel Ritz Madrid* [email protected] 8621 6279 8888 ext. 7941 [email protected] Gloria Garrido [email protected] Dubai International Financial Centre Thailand 34 91 701 67 72 Mahmoud Abualsoud Shanghai, Pudong Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve [email protected] 971 43722624 June Ren Roberta Pellacci Turkey [email protected] 86 21 20201100 66 2 260 6482 Istanbul [email protected] [email protected] Baris Atik 90 212 334 4414 [email protected]

*A Partner Hotel weddings by the ritz-carlton 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 weddings by the ritz-carlton 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 televi- sion 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 Clockwise from top: A festive the exact ambiance created for pagoda faces the ocean. The bride the couple and their guests. At created beautiful handcrafted 7 p.m. on a balmy August evening, programs bearing the couple’s initials. Calla lilies, orchids and the couple’s 60 guests gathered roses in sunny shades of orange on the palm-studded oceanfront and yellow added a splash of color. lawn as the two exchanged vows. Evolyn’s nieces, Imani and Imari Brooks, were darling as junior For the reception in the hotel’s bridesmaids. A lineup of pretty ballroom, the resort’s team cre- peep toes for the bridesmaids. And the bride channeling a Hollywood ated a modern Tinseltown affair, starlet in a Rivini lace gown and with a sleek loungelike setting and handmade cathedral-length veil.

w E ddI ngs B y the ritz-C arlton 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, likeMahogany . “Evolyn and I both love to travel and enjoy food around the world,” Gary says, so the resort’s chefs created an inter- nationally influenced menu. Among Clockwise from top left: Escort the stations: Southern comfort cards designed to look like movie tickets reflected the Hollywood serving pulled barbecued pork, theme. Just before the ceremony, Mediterranean with barley risotto the bride and groom spent a moment alone enjoying the and Asian featuring orange chicken beach. The three-tiered vanilla and Cantonese-style beef. The new- and lemon wedding cake dazzles lyweds pronounced it pure A-list. with orange and amber sugar flowers. A creative movie-inspired poster announced the newlyweds. be featured in a future issue Dessert of mini pecan pie brought Visit ritzcarlton.com/weddings and Southern flair to the Florida affair. learn how you can have your celebration And gold favor boxes of Godiva featured in a future issue of Weddings chocolates made for a deliciously by The Ritz-Carlton magazine. sweet ending.

70 w EDDinGS B y the ritz-C arlton ADVERTISeMENT

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The elaborate nuptials of prince William and Kate Middleton will con- tinue 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.

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