Don't Sweat the Small Stuff

I must admit, even though I had a beautiful Mexican Wedding that lived up to every expectation, not everything went exactly according to plan!  As with almost every bride out there, I totally wanted every detail to be perfect. And as almost every bride out there finds out, perfection isn’t realistic! I quickly learned that the best way to enjoy my wedding was to stop sweating the small stuff.  The weather cannot be controlled, the resort will most likely misplace something, and not all of your guests will be on their best behaviour.  Despite all of this, you are the bride, and as such, you are entitled to a freak out (or two, but please, not in front of your guests!). Here are some of the minor things that went wrong on my wedding day, and how I dealt with it:

1)    The Weather

My wedding in May was just bordering on the rainy season in Mexico. While the weather was pretty much gorgeous the entire time our guests were there, our wedding day was windy, and I mean WINDY! We’re not talking a light breeze, but full gale-force winds (or so it felt when I was walking down the aisle with my veil whipping in my face!).  My nicely arranged hair and aforementioned veil were everywhere. But you know what? I wouldn’t trade the wind looking back! The pictures turned out great (and very dramatic!) and the wind actually helped cool down a very hot day. If your destination weather doesn’t choose to cooperate with you fully, don’t sweat it. You still look beautiful, everyone is having a good time, and you’re still marrying the man of your dreams!

Yes- that’s me holding my veil! On the upside, the wind made the ocean backdrop look amazing!

2)    Misplaced reservation

The Grand Velas Resort where we married was wonderful helping me arrange all of the restaurant reservations in the evenings.  However, they did misplace our reservation for the rehearsal dinner the night before the wedding. Horrors! Not really... but as a nervous bride to be, it meant a few tears. My dad and fiancé were amazing however and quickly stepped in with hotel management to figure out a replacement location right away. While I was upset that my original restaurant choice was booked, we managed to get into another great venue almost right away. My emotional state was a bit shot, but to be honest, my guests had no idea about the change in plans.  The best part of the mix-up was how loved I felt by my family. They all rallied around me to consol and cheer me up. Is there anything better than having your loved ones so close for your most special day?

Cocina de Autor – the beautiful Spanish restaurant at our resort and was voted as one of the top Restaurants in Mexico by Travel & Leisure magazine.

3)    Inappropriate guest behaviour

Destination weddings can sometimes be a wild card in terms of guest behaviour. When you think about it: unlimited alcohol + sitting in the sun all day + tons of cute hotel staff/guests = some scandals! Don’t worry- this is totally in the norm.  One of my very good friends turned out to be a bit of a gossip magnet because of her behaviour in the week leading up to our wedding. While I totally understand that it was her holiday too, alcohol should be consumed within reason throughout the day. There is a time and place for certain things, and our wedding was not that time or place! In the end, I did sweat this issue a bit, but to be honest it added to the fun of the wedding.  People are still talking about the crazy scandals that went down in Mexico last May!

Unexpectedly awesome! At the end of the wedding night, our groomsmen all stripped down and jumped in the pool! (Don’t worry- they’re wearing boxers)

At the end of the day, it’s important to put everything into perspective.  The weather, the resort and your guests are not things you have total control over, so let it go! Enjoy your day and all the things that did go right, and try not to sweat the small stuff when your drunken Uncle takes over Karaoke at the after party.  Remember, imperfections are what make your wedding memorable!

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Adeline Schickedanz is a graduate of the Wedding Planning Institute of Canada, and team member of Creative Weddings and Occasionsand Del Sol Destination Weddings.  With a background in Visual Design and a true love of planning weddings, Adeline is a great choice to have on your wedding design team. She is also a destination wedding specialist, working with couples who desire to wed in various picturesque dream locations throughout the world. For more information about planning your own wedding please contact Adeline at info@creativeweddingsandoccasions.com.

Salzburg: The Stage of the World

For many travellers, just the mention of Salzburg brings  to mind memories of Julie Andrews singing through the streets, but for almost a thousand years, the wealth provided by the nearby salt mines has allowed Salzburg to develop into one of the most elegant cities north of the Alps. 

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Baroque architecture of Salzburg's Alte Stadt (Old Town) is cradled between the river Salzach and the imposing Festung Hohensalzburg (High Salzburg Fortress) which guards over the city from its 500 foot  plateau. While millions of tourists flock to Salzburg for everything from the world class music festival, to the "Sound of Music" tours (complete with sing along karaoke), the locals know that the most favourite thing to see in Salzburg is Salzburg itself. Local guides are excited to share how certain fountains and statues line up with some of the ornate Baroque architecture, and show off the secrets that truly make Salzburg a special place.

Photo courtesy of Salzburg Tourism

  If the Salzburg Fortress overlooks the Southern half of the city, the Hotel Schloss Mönchstein  watches regally over the North end of the old town. Perched atop Mönchberg mountain, located in a 14,000 m2 park, this palatial castle's roots date back to the 1300s and has been operated as a hotel since 1948. The unique and romantic setting lends credibility to the fact that this is Salzburg's first five star accommodation. How about a fairy tale wedding in your own fairy tale castle?

Photo courtesy of Hotel Schloss Monchstein

Just a five minute walk (and elevator ride) from the Hotel Schloss Mönchstein, brings you to the end of one of the finest shopping avenues in the world, the Getreidegasse. This winding  pedestrian lane is bordered by tall narrow dwellings that now play host to the likes of Louis Vutton, Swarovski and other boutiques. Iconic wrought-iron signs advertise each store's wares to locals and tourists alike. Take your time and visit Mozart's house, or avoid the tourists by ducking into the numerous little side streets which will open up and reveal wonderful galleries, courtyards, and cafes.

Photo courtesy of  Fotocommunity.com - Brigitte Wendinger

Steps away from the other end of the Getridegasse, Cafe Tomaselli (established in 1703) has been the favourite hangout for politicians, stars of stage and screen, and society for over 300 years. (Even Mozart was a regular.) This Viennese coffee house is not your "drive-through" Starbucks from home, so take your time and enjoy the old world charm that Tomaselli's inhabits. Tuxedoed waiters offer up  a rich variety of coffees, while  the roaming "cake maids" will tempt you with mouth-watering homemade cakes and strudel. If you goal is to be seen as well as see, try to get a table on the second floor patio overlooking the street.

Photo courtesy of  www.aspiringgentleman.com/artslife/places-to-imbibe-in-cafe-tomaselli-salzburg-austria/

There is so much more that could be written about the city, the culture, the cuisine, the shopping, but I wouldn't want to deny you the opportunity to discover some of Salzburg's special magic on your own.
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Chris MacRae is an experienced traveller and amateur photographer who has travelled extensively throughout North America and Europe. He has lived in Berlin, Germany for six months where he had the opportunity to visit many other countries in Europe. As a Canadian opera singer,  he has performed in numerous cities throughout Canada, the United States, and Europe where he has gained a first hand  knowledge of the different areas. He is presently attending the University of North Texas in Denton where he is taking his Docorate in Music and teaching voice.

Calgary's Beautiful Summer - Winter Travel Not Far Behind

Today is another beautiful sunny day in YYC. I can't believe the kids will be heading back to school in a couple more weeks!

 In looking back over the past two months we have been fortunate to have one of the best summers that I can remember in years. On that same token, we also had the worst winter that I can ever remember. Even with the temperature rising to the high 20s or low 30s during the day, our evening always cool down to temperatures in the teens so it is much cooler for sleeping.

However, we all know that with September approaching the snow and then the cold weather is not far behind. There is a lot of talk in the travel industry that airline fares and hotel rates will be lower this fall due to the unstability of the US economy. It's time to start dreaming about your next winter vacation.  With so many beautiful places in the the world to visit, it is often hard to make a choice. Hopefully my blog will give you some inspiration. I'm always looking for new places to write about, so if you know of a great place to vacation , I would love to hear from you.  Start making your travel plans today and if we can help in any way, do not hesitate to call or email me at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca.

Here's a couple of pictures from my trips in the past year to get you started thinking about your next trip.

North Shore of Kauai - Lumahai Beach

View of Mazatland, Mexico from across the bay

Costa Rica

Kilauea Volcano on the Big Island, Hawaii

Secrets Silver Sands Resort, Riviera Maya



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Muriel MacRae plans destination weddings, exciting getaways and customized vacations for discerning travellers, honeymooners and families. As the owner of Del Sol Travel, she offers romantic vacations with personalized service and unique itineraries. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their customized vacation. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca or phone 403-477-0643.

The Guest Experience

You’re engaged; you’ve picked your beautiful resort, selected your gorgeous dress, and even settled on flowers and decor. Now what?? Your guests experience of course! While this special occasion is all about you and your fiancé, it’s important to keep your guests in mind when planning your destination wedding.  Getting married in a far-away local means your friends and family are placing valuable time and money in you, so help make the most of their experience! Here are a few helpful tips and suggestions to keep in mind when pampering your guests.

1)  Venue

I can’t stress enough how much this decision impacts your guests! I know you want a beautiful venue that you’ve always envisioned but please keep these items in mind:

a.  Pricing- is the resort you’ve selected affordable for the guests you are inviting? Is it all inclusive? Are extras like alcohol and snorkelling excursions included? It’s important to evaluate these financial concerns before booking your venue.

b.  Amenities – consider your friends and family and any concerns they may have. If you have lots of children coming, make sure the resort is family friendly. If grandma is in a wheelchair, make sure everything she needs to enjoy is wheelchair accessible!

c.  Safety- this is definitely a concern when booking your wedding abroad. Please make sure the area you are travelling to is safe and secure. Keep in mind that beach resorts will generally be more secure than boutique hotels in the local town nearby. If you have any safety concerns about the resort you are booking, give us a call. Creative Weddings & Occasions are experts on selecting a destination venue that’s both safe and fun for your guests!

2)   Welcome Bags

Welcome bags are a great way to greet your weary guests that have travelled all day to get there! Arrange for the resort to have them waiting in their room when they arrive. In a nice beach bag include items like sunscreen, bottled water, swimming toys (like boogie boards), candy and soothing lotion. A nice touch would be to find some local handicrafts (such as Mexican pottery) to include.  To finish it off, throw in a detailed map of the area, and a personalized welcome note.

3)  Helpful Itineraries

Often your guests will be wondering what the game plan is for the week leading up to your wedding. It’s helpful to write up an itinerary in advance to include in their welcome bag. On the itinerary, include group restaurant reservations, and any group activities you have planned. Most importantly, reiterate your wedding ceremony time and exact location (ex. secluded beach area) in case guests get too caught up swimming and drinking margarita’s to remember!

4)  Group Activities

Planning a welcome barbeque on the beach, arranging for deep sea fishing, or organizing a spa day are all thoughtful idea’s that your guests are sure to enjoy. However, I do suggest keeping your group activities to a minimum. Most of your guests are probably hoping to relax and enjoy the beautiful resort, and don’t want to have to worry about a strict time schedule! If you do have lots of plans, make sure your guests know that everything (except your wedding!) is optional for them to partake in.

5)  Relax!

I know that the days leading up to your wedding will probably be a bit stressful. After months of planning, your big day is almost here! But the best advice I can give you is to sit back, relax on that comfy beach chair, and enjoy having all of your nearest and dearest nearby. Your guests have travelled far and wide to celebrate with you, and stressing about how your floral arrangements will turn out is just not worth it.  Instead, focus on the great conversations, the impromptu beach volleyball, and Aunt Sally busting a move on the dance floor!

Ultimately, choosing a destination wedding provides a much deserved vacation for the friends and family attending. As such, be prepared to make it as fun and stress free as you can! A little pampering here and there will ensure your guest experience lives up to every expectation!

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Adeline Schickedanz is a graduate of the Wedding Planning Institute of Canada, and team member of Creative Weddings and Occasions and Del Sol Travel.  With a background in Visual Design and a true love of planning weddings, Adeline is a great choice to have on your wedding design team. She is also a destination wedding specialist, working with couples who desire to wed in various picturesque dream locations throughout the world. For more information about planning your own wedding please contact Adeline at info@creativeweddingsandoccasions.com.

Video of the Day: Jalisco, Mexico

I have had a lot of clients recently who have planned to travel to Puerto Vallarta, which is in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. This video shows some of the Mexican culture, the wonderful spirit of the Mexican people, the pictureque buildings, and some of the beautiful scenery. You will enjoy your visit much more if you know something about the area.

My husband and  I visited Puerto Vallarta a couple of years ago while on a cruise. Since we were only able to spend a part of a day there, we can't wait to return to photograph the area, especially the Malecon (the boardwalk), learn more about the city, visit some good restaurants, and enjoy some of the beaches.  And of course I always like to visit the  nicest resorts so that I know which ones to recommend to my clients!

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Muriel MacRae plans destination weddings, exciting getaways and customized vacations for discerning travellers, honeymooners and families. As the owner of Del Sol Travel, she offers romantic vacations with personalized service and unique itineraries. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their customized vacation. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca or phone 403-477-0643.

Getting Married at the Fairmont Orchid

Photo courtesy of Fairmont Orchid

After spending three weeks in Hawaii this past July, looking at luxury resorts for destination weddings and honeymoons, I have come to the conclusion that Hawaii is the great place to have a wedding or to go on a honeymoon. Not only does it have warm temperatures (usually in the high 70s or low 80s) and gorgeous scenery but there is also plenty to do on the “Big Island” of Hawaii, making it a perfect location for you and your guests to have a great time on one of your most important holidays during your lifetime! The Fairmont Orchid on the Kohala Coast is one hotel on the Big Island that you will want to consider for your tropical wedding.

This Hawaiian resort located in Mauna Lani, is surrounded by five sacred mountains, and the aquamarine hues of the Pacific Ocean. The Fairmont Orchid is a beautifully landscaped property with spectacular resort scenery, including sweeping oceanfront views, a secluded beach, and tranquil waterfall gardens. Each provides an unforgettable backdrop for any special occasion, depending on your preference. The resort had plenty of aloha spirit and a sense of magic and romance surrounding you as you enjoy the luxury service, the fantastic sunsets, and this breath-taking tropical paradise.

The Fairmont Orchid has nearly 76 000 square feet of open-air space that for you to hold your dream outdoor wedding. You’ll find one of the biggest problems you will have is to decide which one is right for you:

Turtle Point Gazebo: Located on an oceanfront location on Turtle Pointe . this classic Victorian-style white wedding gazebo provides a breathtaking panorama of the ocean, the resort and the summits of the Kohala Mountains, Mauna Kea, and Mauna Loa

Photo courtesy of Fairmont Orchid

The Coconut Grove: Popular for both the ceremony and the reception if you want a sandy beach location, this beautiful setting has lovely towering swaying palms overhead, glowing tiki torches, and spectacular ocean views.

Photo courtesy of Muriel MacRae

The Courtyard Lanai: This area is located on the garden level beneath the Lobby. It features sculpted tile and railings and overlooks the lawn as well as the pool and the ocean beyond.

The Ballroom Courtyard: This courtyard is sheltered on four sides but opens to the sky and has a large centered fountain.

The Plantation Estates: This rectangular lawn area enclosed by stately palms has a view of the 9^th and 10^th fairway and the ocean beyond.

Wailana Gardens/Wailele Falls: These areas are intimate and serene located next to beautiful waterfalls, lush green gardens, and swaying palm trees.

Photo courtesy of Muriel MacRae

Kilohana:  This indoor/outdoor function space opens to a private lanai and grassy area surrounded by tiki torches suitable for cocktails before you move inside for an indoor reception.

The Fairmont Orchid also has many luxury indoor settings which include The Grand Ballroom, The Plaza Ballroom and the Promenade Ballroom (can be separated into three different rooms). In addition, many couples opt to have their reception dinner on the Knoll at Brown’s Beach House, which is located along the shore of Pauoa Bay.

Photo courtesy of Fairmont Orchid

“The Fairmont Orchid, Hawai’i is the perfect setting to seal the bond of love for your wedding or special occasion. Once known as Kalahuipua’a, the playground of Hawaiian Kings, the lush tropical landscaping, sweeping oceanfront views and gorgeous waterfalls that have become hallmarks of our spectacular resort will provide a memorable backdrop for your event. A feeling of magic and romance will be forever etched into your memory as you exchange vows in this tropical paradise.” – Fairmont Orchid

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Muriel MacRae plans exciting getaways and customized vacations for discerning travellers, honeymooners and families. As the owner of Del Sol Travel, she offers romantic vacations with personalized service and unique itineraries. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their customized vacation. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her attravelinfo@delsoltravel.ca or phone 403-477-0643.

Getting Married in Tahiti…It’s Not That Easy

Photo courtesy of honeymooncruiseshopper.com

Many couples dream of getting married in Tahiti but when you learn what the requirement are you might want to think twice. Weddings in the islands of Tahiti are legally binding for Americans and Canadians. More important is that the 30 day residency requirement has been discarded. However, you should know that it can take up to six months to complete all of the paperwork.

Most resorts offer wedding packages, including a minister and a celebrant, assistance in obtaining a marriage license, flowers, champagne, and a candle lit dinner. However, many couples do not want to deal with all of the paperwork, so they  decide to get married in a legal ceremony at home and then  have a wedding or symbolic ceremony in Tahiti which makes for a romantic experience but requires no paperwork. Remember these marriage can be a true Tahitian experience but they are not recognized as legal or binding marriages.

Tahiti Weddings

However, below are the steps and documentation required for a legal ceremony in French Polynesia. It usually takes three to five months to complete the paper work.

To Be Eligible to Get Married in Tahiti

• Both spouses must be at least 18 years old


• Neither spouse can be currently married.


• Spouses must be of the opposite sex


• The couple cannot be related by direct lineage


• The couple cannot be French nationals for residents of France or its territories


• The bride and the groom must each choose a witness who must be 18 years of age or older (if the chosen witness is not present, the mayor’s office will provide the witness)

Required documentation

• The “Marriage of Foreign Citizens in French Polynesia” application must be completed


•  A letter signed and dated by both future spouses, addressed to the mayor of the commune  chosen for the marriage ceremony


• Certificate of residency (one month of residency minimum)


• Birth certificate for bride and groom (issued within the last six months) including translation into French


• An Apostle authenticating the certified copy of the birth certificate


• A prenuptial agreement ( optional)

Cost for Processing the Legal Work

The cost is from $700 to $1300 approximately when  including in such things as a translator, lawyer fees, ordering and sending documents

What Happens Next?

The entire process should take between  3 – 5 months from the time  you order to documents to the day you get marries. Please remember that certifies copies of the birth certificate are valid in Tahiti for 6 months from the date of issue only. Be sure not to order certified copies of your birth certificate more than six months from you wedding date.

What Happens on Your Wedding Day?

On the day of you ceremony, the bridal couple, their guests, and their witnesses will go to city hall which is called Mairie.

The mayor or an appointed representative from the mayor’s office  will perform the ceremony, in the presence of the two witnesses in the language chosen by the wedding couple.

After the ceremony, the mayor will give the couple a Marriage Certificate. The certificate is dates and signed by the mayor’s office of the commune in which the marriage takes place. This will prove that the marriage is legal when returning to your country of origin.

The ceremony at city hall take about 15 minutes and is mandatory. After it is completed , you can have your traditional ceremony at the resort of your choice.

If you live in Canada contact the French Consulates in Canada – contact for translation of documents, certifying documents, further advice: Vancouver office: 604-637-5300, www.consulfrance-vancouver.org . This office serves AB, BC, NT. Toronto office: 416-847-1900, http://www.consulfrance-toronto.org/. This office serves ON, MB, SK.

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Muriel MacRae plans exciting getaways and customized vacations for discerning travellers, honeymooners and families. As the owner of Del Sol Travel, she offers romantic vacations with personalized service and unique itineraries. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their customized vacation. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her attravelinfo@delsoltravel.ca or phone 403-477-0643.

Beautiful Wedding Chapels and Gazebos on the Big Island, Hawaii

If you have your heart set on getting married in a church ceremony at your destination wedding, look no further than the Hawaiian islands. Not every bride wants to get married in the sand but opts for a romantic seaside gazebo or an delightful little chapel. My business partner, Cathy, and I spent two weeks this summer in this tropical paradise visiting different wedding venues on the Big Island of Hawaii. We found the island had numerous picturesque wedding locations at elegant little chapels or gazebos throughout the island perfect for a Hawaiian destination wedding:

Bayside Chapel and Gazebo: Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa located on the Big Island of Hawaii, has the Bayside Chapel, which is a cute little church located in Kona in a beautiful location.  Close by is an lovely little gazebo. Keauhou which means a “new beginning” is the name of this very special place“. The charming green and white chapel and neighbouring gazebo are located in luxurious green tropical gardens overlooking the brilliant blue Pacific.

The chapel can accommodate up to 75 guests and the gazebo accommodates ten people.

 

The beautiful gardens located right beside the ocean provide a lovely tropical backdrop for your wedding photos. The nearby wedding lawn is a venue where many couples hold their reception.

This resort also has a wide variety of venues available for receptions, ranging from formal ballrooms to the outdoor Crystal Blue Terrace and Point, which offers a dramatic view of Keauhou Bay.

Little Blue Church: One of my favourite little churches is Saint Peter’s Church also known as the “Little Blue Church” located on famous Ali’I Drive in downtown Kona, the Big Island. This picture perfect Catholic Church is stunning. The church is surrounded by flowering trees and is situated right beside the beach in Keauhou. It only contains 12 pews, making it one of the smallest churches in the world. Built in 1889, there is a beautiful stained glass window at the back of the church overlooking the ocean.



Photo courtesy of Hawaii Inside - Jean Cooper  

Hilton Waikoloa Village Chapel: Hale Aloha Chapel at Hilton Waikoloa Village is located in a grove of towering palm trees overlooking Waiulula Bay on the sunny Kohala Coast on the Big Island.

This attractive and charming little chapel seats up to 18 guests but the windows can be opened so guests can sit outside and still be a part of the ceremony.

This enchanting oceanfront property features beautiful stained glass windows and mosaics.



Part of the grounds on the resort can be blocked off by an attractive gate so the wedding couple can enjoy privacy at their ceremony.

 Located about 30 yards away from the wedding chapel is the cute little Oceanside gazebo at Hilton Waikoloa Village. This provides an alternative setting for couples wishing to have a smaller wedding.

The Fairmont Orchid Chapel: The Fairmont Orchid built on the lava beds of the Kohala Coast on the big Island, is home to the classic, Victorian-style white wedding gazebo. This elegant setting is located on manicured lush green  lawn with breathtaking ocean views of sparkling blue water in the background.

This lovely venue allows for a small intimate wedding or hundreds of guests.



Photo courtesy of Ainahua Florals

All photos courtesy of Muriel MacRae unless otherwise indicated. 

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Muriel MacRae plans exciting getaways and customized vacations for discerning travellers, honeymooners and families. As the owner of Del Sol Travel, she offers romantic vacations with personalized service and unique itineraries. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their customized vacation. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her attravelinfo@delsoltravel.ca or phone 403-477-0643.