I am continuously amazed, inspired and excited by the imagination, creativity and skill of other people, and this day (and the beautiful work that resulted from it) was very much a celebration of all of those qualities.
I had originally had the idea of organising a very small and meticulously planned styled photoshoot to showcase some the new pieces that I had been making, using one of the original 19th century brick walls in my studio as a backdrop.
Invariably, my initial idea and vision gathered pace very quickly, growing completely organically, and we ended up with something that had a much greater breadth of vision than I had ever initially imagined, whilst still remaining completely true to the light and feminine essence that was at the very core of the initial idea.
This photoshoot would not have been possible without each and every one of the talented creatives listed below, who were all incredibly generous with their time, experience and imagination. To each of them, thank you.
Sonia, Gioia Mia
Breath-taking Scenery & lavish surroundings in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve
By Yolisa Qunta
Dulini River Lodge brings old world magic back to the honeymoon experience.
One of the best things about the days gone past was romantic travel experiences. Gently rocking steam trains, smooth sailing ships and hypnotic carriage rides. While modern travel has many advantages it could be said it has lost a lot of soul. Taking a honeymoon to Dulini Lodge in the Sabi Sand game reserve combines the conveniences of this century with the sophisticated style of yesteryear. Getting there is a breeze with Airlink who fly in from all major South African airports and the regional ones in neighboring countries. Arriving at Dulini is very convenient as they have a service from the Kruger National Airport that drops passengers off on the runway at the lodge. The short but scenic flight is smooth and sometimes the pilot flies a little lower if there is game to be seen.
On arrival at Dulini River Lodge the magic begins. With only six villas there is no formal check in, instead guests are greeted by name then seated in the double volume lounge space overlooking the scenic Sand River with homemade juices. The villas epitomize luxury starting with the oversize king bed. There is a spacious bathroom with a full sized shower big enough for two, a stand alone bathtub and double vanity sinks. Outside is a second shower and perfectly heated plunge pool on the wooden deck overlooking the river. The personal touch continues with a handwritten welcome note from staff. The entire suite is designed for a couple to enjoy privacy in opulence. This includes coffee machines and in room wifi.
Leaving such lavishness would require some incentive which comes in the form of wildlife. Dulini is famous for leopard sightings and the big cats have occasionally been spotted wandering though the lounge. It is preferable to view them from the safety of a game drive vehicle with the experienced rangers. The sumptuous meals are yet another highlight of a stay at Dulini River Lodge. The chef prepares daily feasts based on what is in season. The owners Sue and Iain Garratt like to join guests for dinner giving the occasion a regal family feel.
Other projects that keep Sue busy are an initiative that gives local teenage girls sanitary towels so that they do not miss school and a scheme that teaches children and adults in the community digital literacy. Guests are pleased that the opulent living during their stay is balanced with compassion. Dulini River Lodge is the ideal honeymoon venue for those looking to combine exquisite service, breath-taking scenery and timeless luxury.
More information can be found at www.dulini.com/river-lodge
The latest from designer Netta Ben Shabu is aptly named EUPHORIE, the plural of euphoria, is exactly what you will feel when perusing the new Fall/Winter 2019 collection.
Staying true to her signature craft of only using the highest quality Italian and French lace, the “Euphorie” collection is accentuated with intricately patterned floral and beading appliques, sensual open backs, demure button detailing, caping and Gibson Girl-esque trains. Not to mention sultry slits, sheering, subtle feathering and peek-a-boos. Playing against the iconic “S” shape of the female physique, these timeless ultra feminine gowns are truly delicate and delectable works of art in motion!
To view the whole collection visit www.nettabenshabu.com
Instagram: nettabenshabu.official
The award-winning Fonteverde Spa, Tuscany, is delighted to unveil a brand new ‘Brides-To-Be’ spa package. Tailor-made for brides who prefer a healthy hen do, the package promises to help stressed-out brides and their closest friends relax and unwind ahead of their special day.
Perched in the picturesque Val d’Orcia valley, Fonteverde is the historic former property of Fedinando de’ Medici and is renowned for its natural spa and large spring water pools overlooking the beautiful Tuscan countryside.
Brides-to-be and bridesmaids participating in Fonteverde’s exclusive two-night ‘Brides-To-Be’ package will enjoy pampering facials and massages as well as a luxurious evening at the thermal spa and Bioaquam pool complete with delicious cocktails, crisp champagne and Italian canapés.
The pampering will begin with a 50-minute brightening facial for brides and bridesmaids-to-be. Using thermal mud and plant extracts, the rejuvenating clay facials promise to leave the entire wedding party’s skin glowing and ready for their wedding photographs.
Alongside their clay facials, the bride and her friends will receive a relaxing massage of their choice performed by Fonteverde’s expert masseuses. Massage options include a thermal relax massage using a special mixture of oil and thermal oligo-elements, a tranquillity aromatic ritual massage and a luxury candle massage featuring aromatic soybean candles.
To complete their pampering getaway, guests will enjoy a special spa night at Fonteverde’s thermal spa with the Bioaquam pool area reserved exclusively for their use from 8.30pm onwards. Brides-to-be and their bridesmaids can spend the evening relaxing, wedding planning and enjoying delicious cocktails, champagne and Italian canapés under the stars.
Guests booking the ‘Brides-To-Be’ package will be hosted in the hotel’s most luxurious rooms and suites and will receive full access to hotels’ thermal spa, thermal Bioaquam circuit, Etruscan circuit complete with sauna, hot plate and steam bath, fitness room and daily morning hikes with a local guide. Finally, brides and their guests will also enjoy VIP airport transfers from either Rome or Florence and a daily buffet breakfast.
Rates for the two-night ‘Brides-To-Be’ package start from €1,232 (£1,097*) per person.
Rates include two nights B&B, one 50-minute clay facial, one 50-minute massage treatment, a special spa night with cocktails, champagne and canapés as well as full access to Fonteverde’s spa facilities.
For further information or to make a booking please email info@fonteverdespa.com or call +39 0578 57241.
*Price in pound sterling accurate according to today’s exchange rate.
Opened on 15th June 2018, ELIVI SKIATHOS is a brand new, independently owned five-star hotel surrounded by a beautiful nature reserve on the Pounta Peninsula.
The hotel is located in one of the best, most secluded areas of the island with high-end offerings including private pools, a sea-facing elegant four-bedroom villa with full hotel services, a spa and more.
Comprised of three separate areas, ELIVI SKIATHOS features modern spacious rooms and suites only a few steps away from Skiathos’ most picturesque beaches. Food and beverage offerings are served up to guests in three immaculately executed restaurants and six bars. Sports facilities include an indoor and outdoor gym, tennis court, basketball court and football pitch.
Family owned and developed by father and daughter, Elias and Vivi Nathanailidi, ELIVI SKIATHOS provides warm hospitality set within beautiful surroundings.
Rates at ELIVI SKIATHOS start from €250 per night based on two people sharing a room.
www.elivihotels.com +30 2310 4733
City of Angels – Intricately detailed with edgy silhouettes make up the 2019 MUSE by Berta ‘City of Angels’ collection.
We learn time and time again just why the Muse by Berta line is quickly becoming the most sought-after in the bridal industry.
Shot in the illuminating Beverly Hills, the MUSE ad campaign showcases what all of this collection is about. The upscale shopping streets of Rodeo Drive and rawness of the Beverly Hills streets are the perfect backdrop for such extravagant dresses. Here we see how much the fabric really tells the story. The soft, flowy essence of this MUSE collection creates an illusion of quiet glamour in touch with the city life.
A love story of the contradiction between effortless styling and the busy city streets. A special, soft beauty that takes elements from more elaborate gowns and simplifies them into a bit of an understated look. This new MUSE by Berta collection is about to take the bridal industry by storm. Adding a freshness that is unique and special, by the one and only mastermind behind it all, Berta.
Soak up the Sun at Conrad Miami with average temperatures of 26°C, May is the perfect time to explore Miami and soak up some early summer sun.
Located on Brickell Avenue, Conrad Miami is a stone’s throw away from Downtown Miami with views of the South Beach coastline. The concierge team can help guests make the most of their time in Miami with an array of exclusive activities including a twenty-minute helicopter ride over Miami, the perfect honeymoon adventure or beautiful sunrise yoga sessions on the beach.
One of Conrad Hotels & Resorts’ 32 properties worldwide, Conrad Miami boasts stylish rooms with stunning views of the bay and Miami skyline. The hotel also features a luxurious spa on the twenty-fourth floor perfect for some much needed pampering, a fitness suite, and a rooftop pool allowing guests to cool off and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Rates at Conrad Miami start from £231 per night on a B&B basis.
To book, please visit www.conradhotels.com or call +1-305-503-6500.
With Ultra Violet being an on-trend colour in 2018, brides are becoming inspired by the different hues and shades that their wedding could entail.
From invitations, to the venue décor, this alluring shade of purple is already enticing brides to incorporate this colour scheme into their big day. As it is a colour that can be used all year round; deeper tones in the winter time and softer, more subtle tones in the summer, ultra violet is taking the industry by storm.
Let Ultra Violet inspire every element of your day…
How often have we all uttered the phrase, “If I only knew then what I know now…”
This age old saying can encompass everything from relationships, health, investments to even raising children. But one thing has often been over looked, shopping for your wedding dress!
Yes, it’s an investment per-se but not the “Wall Street” kind. Oh, there may be some “bull” and “bear” moments, but many a bride-to-be would sure benefit from getting a few helpful and handy tips from our bridal designers here at CLD PR! Here are a few “insider tips” on timing, budgeting, style and fittings, these designers would love to share with you on how to make this journey a less stressful one for an already stressed out bride-to-be!
TIMING & BUDGET
How far in advance of my wedding should I begin my search?
ALLURE BRIDALS
We recommend searching casually about a year before the wedding, to see which silhouettes and styles you fall in love with.
BERTA
We suggest to start the search at least one year prior to the wedding. Our one of a kind BERTA dresses take 6 months to create and there must be time left for fittings, alterations, etc.
COCOMELODY
Start the hunt for the dress early. My advice is to start at least 6-8 months before your wedding day. I have encountered brides wait until the last minute to find their dress. This is a big mistake! Brides need to know that it’s best to start early, this will give them ample time for their fittings and alterations needed for the dress.
WINNIE COUTURE
Every shopping journey has a different timeline! Enjoy being engaged, wait a little while! Take time to discuss key details, talk logistics and have an ideal timeline in mind (maybe look at a few venues). Commit to your wedding plans then your dress is next!
By when should I have made my selection (in contrast to the actual wedding date)?
ALLURE BRIDALS
Brides should order the gown according to the designer’s timelines – so we suggest placing your gown order seven or eight months out, to ensure ample delivery and alterations time.
WINNIE COUTURE
At 9 months to a year out from your wedding date. If you have already committed to a date and venue further than 2 years out, wait until the 18-month mark to shop for gowns then plan on from that point!
How much time should a couple allow beforehand to put funds aside to make the purchase?
COCOMELODY
Before anything else, sit down and think about the budget allotted for your wedding dress. Begin by deciding who is paying for your wedding dress. Once you have this information,you will have a better understanding of how much you can spend. This will save you from trying on gowns that are way above your budget. Also, consider shopping online. If you’re working on a budget, don’t be afraid to look and shop online. Hidden bridal gems can befound online if you’re looking at the right places. You can check if these online stores have their brick and mortar place and if they do call them to ask questions, like their return policy.
WINNIE COUTURE
You should look at your options and talk with your family before discussing gown prices with your fiancé. The gown as an object is more important to the bride than the groom before he sees her wearing it. Don’t settle on your gown price but don’t put yourself in a bind up front.
STYLE
Finding the right style. (i.e. how to decide if I should go with modern/classic/vintage?)
BERTA
We like to suggest styles based on what the bride envisi ons on her special day. This is, of course, only a suggestion and our stylists are always extremely open with our brides. We think it’s important to have some type of style in mind when on the search, however we tend to see that many brides usually find the “one” and sometimes it is not what they even had in mind! Whatever feels good for the bride is the most important! Bridal trends will always come andgo but our BERTA dresses are truly one of a kind pieces.
COCOMELODY
When you’re choosing which silhouette to use for your wedding dress, take into consideration the venue and the theme of your wedding, and of course what best suits your body type. During your appointments, don’t hesitate to ask for the help from an expert and ask them to show you the different silhouette types: a-line, trumpet, mermaid, sheath, fit-and-flare, and ball gowns.
RANDI RAHM
Advice on silhouettes based on body type… try to trust the judgment and expertise of your designer especially if you are having something custom made. Usually your designer will have many years of experience in determining what silhouettes will flatter you most.
Suggestions regarding ‘length’. (i.e. if you are short, a long train may not be a good idea, if you have large hips or narrow shoulders, X style would be better for you)
WINNIE COUTURE
Your gown will be a reflection of you and what makes you feel beautiful. If you like the way you look in the gown take in the style and constructive details, don’t rush too quickly out of your first few gowns but take your time wearing every dress and if this dress makes you feel special it’s not one to over look! But chances are this gown makes you feel special because this is probably the best silhouette for your body and mind. Prime example; Some ladies can getaway with going braless when wearing a backless top. If you are not one of those girls in your day to day life, your wedding day might not be the best day to test that out. Wear a gown that highlights and enhances your natural shape. You want feel secure from the waist up on your wedding day.
Should I stay away from non-traditional ‘trends’? Will I regret it later if I do go with a “trend”?
ALLURE BRIDALS
We’ve all seen our parents’ and grandparents’ wedding albums. Some trends wear beautifully; others do not. If your wedding is bucking tradition – embrace it! Fashion is fluid, and it’s meant to be fun.
If this is your mindset: wear the crop top or that adventurous pantsuit. If you want to hold to more traditional wedding attire, there are ways to embrace classic looks while playing with lines and details. It’s entirely possible to blend trends and traditional bridal gowns!
COCOMELODY
Create your mood board. Explore on current trends, fabrics, and designs. Check out bridal magazines, websites and online forums. This will give you a background on where to start and will certainly help you choose your dream wedding dress in no time.
RANDI RAHM
Randi Rahm’s sensibility has always been to be as comfortable with the fashion quotient of your wedding dress as you are everyday in your life” You want to be able to recognize and relate to your true self in your wedding photos for many years to come.
WINNIE COUTURE
The crop top trend is the only current trend you will regret! You have your entire life to wear a crop top!
How do I choose a color if I want to go with something other than traditional white. Do brides regret going with alternative colors?
WINNIE COUTURE
Pick a color that you will never call ugly for the rest of your life. If you can’t choose a specific unique color combo you truly love on Pinterest, go neutral and natural. Let the venue do the showing off and work around it.
FITTINGS
Is it important to bring the underpinnings/accessories/heel height I will be wearing, with me when trying on dresses/being fitted?
ALLURE BRIDALS
Nude, properly-fitted undergarments make fittings infinitely easier. And, although unnecessary for the gown purchase itself, accurate heel height lends a truer look at the lines of the gown as they will appear on your wedding day. By the time you are in the alterations stage, however, you should absolutely bring your wedding shoes!
BERTA
Yes, the more the merrier! Heel height is crucial during the fittings so the stylist can make sure the length of the dress is just right.
WINNIE COUTURE
At 9 months to a year out from your wedding date. If you have already committed to a date and venue further than 2 years out, wait until the 18-month mark to shop for gowns then plan on from that point!
Things to take note of when going in for your fitting.
BERTA
It’s definitely important to have something in mind when coming into your fitting. After you’ve already chosen your style, the bride usually can envision the whole look. The more thought you put into your fitting, the better! We love to hear our brides’ requests and do it all just to make sure she leaves satisfied.
Will bringing my “entourage” along help or hinder my decision making process during my search? Does having “too many cooks in the kitchen” cause havoc for the bride, the designer?
ALLURE BRIDALS
Only you can know the dynamics brought into play between your family and friends,
so choose wisely. Will your (sometimes overly opinionated) college roommate bump your stress level up? Will your aunt calm you down when you feel indecisive? These are things to consider when choosing who accompanies you to your appointments.
BERTA
We think this is totally up to the bride, as some of our BERTA brides like to bring their mom or best friend and some love to bring as many as possible. It all fits with the bride’s personality usually and what she has in mind. Our stylists quickly becomes the bride’s friend as they are part of the whole process!
WINNIE COUTURE
Less is always more 🙂 Weddings bring families together! Close family members should be the first on your guest list. But still ask yourself this question when choosing your friend category entourage. Could I see myself taking a long road trip with this friend?. You need a Thelma and Louise style party. “Your ride or die” few friends that will be supportive and have fun with who ever else you decide to bring! Only bring those who make an effort to make your experience a positive and empowering one!
How do I address an issue during a fitting if I feel my dress is not fitting me properly?
RANDI RAHM
It’s your day and you deserve to feel your best. However, you must have a realistic expectation of fit as well as the movement your dress will inherently allow. For example, if you decide on an off the shoulder style, you must understand, it may limit the full mobility of your arms vs. a strapless or sleeveless style. Also keep in mind that your dress will only fit you most perfectly when you are standing with your most perfect posture. Try to find a style in which you can have fun and be comfortable, not one in which you be preoccupied on your special day.
WINNIE COUTURE
If something feels “funny” or “off” then ask the seamstress why the gowns feels a certain way on your body.
The proper way to make and/or cancel/reschedule an appointment. What they should take into consideration in regards to the designers time.
RANDI RAHM
Always consider that when cancelling an appointment it can interrupt the rhythm of the construction and completion of your dress as designers often have many things in the works for other clients as the same time.
WINNIE COUTURE
You need to feel ready to shop for your gown. Plan in advanced and clear your schedule. If you are eager to find your gown then you are most likely going to find it. The number one mistake is canceling because someone else can’t make it. If your family or closets friend is unable to make it but you are eager to start shopping, you can still go look and scale back the level of your appointment. The salon is ready for you to arrive, let them know that you wish to shop and look then schedule a time to comeback and try on the gowns. Designers and stylist appreciate your interest in them, they will understand needing to extend your appointment process.
CocoMelody launches the “Bohemian Nomad” collection under the direction of Rodolpho “Puey” Quinones.
CocoMelody is a leading bridal retailer, serving brides and their wedding parties for over 15 years. CocoMelody’s founder, Miranda, listening to her friend, a bride-to-be, complain about the how expensive wedding dresses were and how the “reasonably” priced ones were made from very poor quality, found her niche. After scouring trade shows and extensive research, Miranda founded CocoMelody on the belief that the wedding dress of your dreams should be affordable, without sacrificing quality and style and their goal is to make every bride happy, no matter what her budget may be.
Recently, creative direction for CocoMelody was taken over by Puey Quiñones Jr., a Filipino fashion designer based in Los Angeles. Prior to his coming to America, Puey began his career as an assistant to famed designers/ateliers, Dennis Lustico and LuLu Tan-Gan and was even a finalist in the Philippines Young Designers Competition for Paris. Once stateside, he’s dressed celebrities such as Katy Perry, Olivia Culpo, Michelle Williams and Lori Laughlin among others.
He has even made guest appearances on “America’s Next Top Model” and his creations have been seen in publications such as Vogue Italia, Runway and Industry magazines.
Since the stores opening, Puey instinctively launched the brands ethereal “Bohemian Nomad” collection. Romantic, languid and flowy dresses that are gracefully unrestricting. Intricate lace and burnout detailing, soft silhouettes, off-the shoulder, deep-V vintage inspired dresses that transcends time and inspired by trends and top wedding shows, each and every dress is meticulously and thoughtfully designed. Highly trained seamstresses and pattern makers tailor the dresses, and the fabrics and materials of high quality are imported worldwide, such as silky satin from China, unique lace from France, crystals from Russia and richly detailed fabrics from Italy.
For the ultimate intimate getaway there is no better venue than Azura Selous.
The exclusive property with only twelve villas gives visitors a memorable experience and certainly pulls out all the stops for honeymoon couples. Set deep in the lush reserve which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is accessible by charter plane. After a short scenic flight from Dar Es Salaam the aircraft lands at Sumbazi airstrip which is only 5 minutes away from the camp. Guests are welcomed with refreshing hibiscus tea and cool towels directly after landing. The special treatment continues for the honeymoon couple who are welcomed to their villa with a bottle of champagne from the owners vineyard.
Villa Twiga is set slightly apart in order to ensure privacy for honeymooners. It is the most spacious and luxurious villa on site. There is a relaxed undercover deck with sun loungers above the swimming pool overlooking the river. An outdoor shower shaped like a rock waterfall as well as a generous bath outside perfectly positioned for river views. On oversize bed draped in netting and personalized mini bar completes the plush setting. The butler hosts are available round the clock to tend to guest needs.
When ready the couple can explore public areas in Azura Selous which overlook the swimming pool and have spectacular views of the nearby Great Ruaha river. These include a spacious lounge as well as a dining room and trading store filled with local crafts. Unlike other camps Azura Selous does not insist on guests dining together. Meals are served whenever the honeymoon couple choose. The staff take pride in ensuring that guests do not dine in the same venue twice. From al fresco breakfasts served during morning game drives, gourmet picnics for lunch, open air dinners in the bush to private dinners for two in the villa there is a world of choice for dining options.
Set in the largest reserve in Africa the property offers many opportunities to see wildlife up close. Honeymoon couples get private game drive in customized open Land Rovers. There are no limits on the duration or distance of game drivers so the ranger can take time to track down whatever game is around. Sightings of elephant, lion, buffalo, hippo and wild dog are common depending on the season. Walking safaris offer a look at the plant life and smaller creatures including birds, they also offer the opportunity to spot the larger animals from up close. Boat rides, fishing and guided star gazing are other activities on offer. For relaxation there are massages or treatments on the deck using organic African products incorporating Marula and Baobab oils.
Looking at the pictures you would think this was a dream wedding, just for the magazines. No one really has this fantastic a time do they? Amazing news, you totally can!
Introducing Kirsty & Russell, Mr & Mrs Allison now. They both fell in love with each other & the destination of Lake Como & couldn’t imagine their special day anywhere else.
A chance chat with Kirsty & her mum at the To Have & To Hold wedding exhibiters stall introduced Blush & the magazine to this special couple and the journey to their extraordinary day!
Owning Blush over the years has been amazing. When writing this article & as a stylist/hairstylist, I was trying to find a focus on what I wanted to convey about what made the day & images so spectacular. I could talk about the finer details of Kirsty’s dress & how it was chosen. Or I could highlight the perfect combination of tailored sharp suits from Russell & his dapper boys, but the joy of being part of this wedding was watching how Kirsty & Russell worked together with suppliers to make their vision come alive. All of which was complemented by the most important people in their lives there to share it with them.
The important thing to remember when starting your planning is to focus on what is important to you both. For some it might be the colour of the bridesmaid’s dresses, for others could be the details in the bouquets.
For Kirsty & Russell, elegance & chic was their vision. On the morning of the wedding they wanted a relaxed & stress-free atmosphere to contrast the spectacular boat journey & views that would be greeting them later in the day. So, choosing the right hair stylist was of great importance as people & personalities can completely change the atmosphere of the preparations. Make up was very personal to Kirsty & she took careful lessons beforehand to learn how to enhance her naturally beautiful face. This, coupled with choosing to bring me along from Scotland, were the finer details that were vital in ensuring that the morning went exactly how she wanted it to. Photographer Marco was also a key player as they wanted to have someone who knew the landscapes & shared their vision & was able to capture it at every moment.
As you can see a picture tells a thousand stories, & we hope that you can experience some of the magic & love that was enjoyed on this special day!!
Exchange vows on the serene beaches of Quinta do Lago, toast with champagne and canapes surrounded by the picturesque Ria Formosa nature reserve and enjoy an al fresco evening reception lakeside under the stars.
Exclusive Wedding Destination
An increasingly popular destination for weddings and honeymoons, Quinta do Lago in the Algarve is easily accessible with direct flights from the UK and Europe and only a 20-minute drive from Faro Airport. Quinta do Lago is one of the most desirable resorts in Europe, where visitors can enjoy warm climates year round surrounded by deserted dunes, sheltered pines, breath-taking beaches and three award winning golf courses – all nestled within the privacy and security of the Ria Formosa nature reserve.
Providing an unbeatable location just moments away from Quinta do Lago, the Magnolia Hotel offers affordable and stylish accommodations for attending wedding guests. With an exuberant spirit, the recently opened hotel has quickly become one of the area’s most characterful hotels as the hottest new boutique hotel on the Algarve coast. Available to book for full exclusivity, wedding guests can relax before events with holistic treatments, enjoy a quick fitness boost with personal training at the new elite performance centre The Campus, and get pampered at the hotel’s soon-to-open hair salon, Shampoo. A truly unique design hotel offering, the Magnolia Hotel is sure to excite each wedding guest, from the fitness fanatic to the gourmet enthusiast.
Weddings by Quinta do Lago
Quinta do Lago provides a unique venue for wedding celebrations. Whether a small and intimate gathering is required or a larger more extravagant wedding, couples can choose from an array of romantic settings including the beach, lake, golf course and restaurants.
An outdoor terrace overlooking the lake, Casa do Lago provides the perfect setting for al fresco gatherings. Famed for its exquisite cuisine and fresh seafood, the restaurant also features a pool and fire pit. A more relaxed outdoor setting can also be enjoyed at The Shack, where guests can enjoy an informal setting for cocktails and a barbecue at sunset. For large gatherings, Bovino Steakhouse can host up to 500 guests for a reception in a stunningly decorated environment. Alternatively, Casa Velha is a seamless fit for a more intimate location and can accommodate 60 guests indoors and 80 guests outdoors. Casa Velha upholds a long reputation as a beacon of fine dining for the region and offers a creative style of fine French cuisine.
At Quinta do Lago, a dedicated events team is on hand to provide support and services throughout each phases, from the initial planning stages through to the final uniquely tailored wedding celebration. Working closely with selected partners and the local community, Quinta do Lago can also provide additional services including airport transfers, florists, beauty services, music, fireworks, security and most importantly accommodation.
The Magnolia Hotel
The recently opened boutique hotel features 74 sleek guest rooms, each complete with a private veranda, 3 suites and 7 exclusive cottages. Ideal for wedding parties, the hotel can be booked for full exclusivity or partial exclusivity for the celebrations and offers late check in and check out, as well as babysitting services.
In addition, the Magnolia Hotel features fresh and local Algarvian produce at the restaurant run by Chef Tom Briggs, an outdoor heated swimming pool with music mixed by the resident DJ and holistic treatments designed to awaken the senses and restore the body’s natural balance.
The ideal base for a Quinta do Lago wedding, the Magnolia Hotel offers wedding guests access to world class golf, shopping, beach, nightlight and the new elite performance centre, The Campus.
The Magnolia Hotel offers a Standard Room from €78/£70 on a B&B basis – www.themagnoliahotelqdl.com / (+351) 289 005 300).
