25 Most Romantic Honeymoon Hotspots!

Had to share this post from Junebug Weddings!

Gorgeous bedrooms, sensuous bathrooms, spectacular scenery, exciting activities, exquisite cuisine, and a feeling of secluded privacy, are just a few of the features that make great destinations into outstanding honeymoon get-aways. After all, honeymoons are first and foremost romantic adventures and no matter where they happen the best ones have two things in common- beauty and a healthy dose of hedonism. With that in mind, here are my picks of the 25 most outstanding honeymoons destinations both near and far. Choose the spot that’s perfect for the two of you and revel in romance!

Hot spots in the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia

Salish lodge and spa, snoqualmie, washington luxury hotel and spa1) Salish Lodge and Spa, Snoqualmie, WA
30 minutes from downtown Bellevue, but it feels so far away. Have a 7-course meal at their award winning restaurant, followed by a long couples massage at their luxurious spa. Cuddle up in front of your fireplace, listen to the peaceful thunder of the falls, and enjoy breakfast in bed, of course.
2) Wickaninish Inn, Tofino, Vancouver Island, BC
Floor to ceiling windows draw you to your view of pristine Chesterman Beach as you settle in to your large and super-cozy room, complete with fireplace, deck, and single or double soaking tubs (you’ll want to reserve the double). Everything here including the hotel itself is in harmony with nature. Don’t’ miss the superb organic meals served at The Pointe restaurant where you can watch whales go by from your table mid-March to mid-July.

3) Stephanie Inn, Cannon Beach, Oregon
On my first visit to the Stephanie Inn, I met a couple from England who asked me to take their photo. They were celebrating their 22nd wedding anniversary, and 22 consecutive years of staying at the Stephanie Inn. No wonder, with beautifully appointed rooms overlooking famous Haystack Rock, impeccable service, and world-class cuisine, this property is a perennial favorite of travelers all over the world.

4) The Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Whistler, BC
Hands down the best winter honeymoon destination in our neck of the woods. Ski out from this gorgeous property to miles of groomed runs and dozens of to-die-for shops and restaurants. Ski-in to your luxurious room, get cozy by the fire, and take advantage of the impeccable service and amenities this hotel has to offer.
Cave b inn at sagecliffe, pacific northwest honeymoon hotel and spa
5) The Cave B Inn and Winery at Sagecliffe, WA
900 feet above the Columbia River with views from every room, this unique property enjoys 300 days of sunshine and four distinct seasons. Visitors have their choice of Cavern Rooms which are literally carved into the cliff side, or Cliffehouses which are beautifully appointed accommodations with stunning views, vine covered decks, high curved ceilings, luxurious king-beds, and deep soaking tubs, (obviously we want you to reserve the latter).


The Hawaiian Islands - Perfect places in paradise

1) Four Seasons at Wailea Beach, Maui, Hawaii
It’s hard to improve on perfection, but expect the staff at the Four Seasons Wailea to give it a try. This elegant, gorgeously appointed property is situated on one of the most romantic beaches in the world and is well-known for its extraordinary service and stunning design. Soak up the Maui sun by day and stroll the tiki torch lit paths by night. Book a spa treatment in the outdoor Hale or in their private couple’s spa suite, and wrap yourself in luxury.
Kilauea lakeside estate, kauai, hawaii honeymoon destination2) Kilauea Lakeside Estate, Kauai, Hawaii
Here’s a find that sure to please. This privately owned oasis just minutes from the beach, sits on a 20-acre lake and features a beautiful master bedroom and romantic bath with walk-in shower and sunken tub. It even has its own white sand beach, putting green and multi-tiered tree house. Steve Hunt, the gracious owner of this property and Kauai expert will love to help you customize your stay in paradise.
3) Secret Beach Hideaway, Kauai, Hawaii
Choose your perfect get-away from one of these four stunning properties located on Kauai’s North Shore. Each secluded accommodation perched above gorgeous Secret Beach features panoramic views and designer details throughout, including ultra comfortable beds that you’ll never want to get out of. Watch the world go by from your own pool or hot-tub, or venture out to the world famous beaches just minutes from your doorstep.
4) The Lodge at Keole, Lanai, Hawaii
The renowned Lodge at Keole on the historically significant Island of Lanai, is an opulent, charming resort with old-world plantation style. No request is too challenging for the accommodating staff that caters to your every whim. Enjoy world-class golf, beautiful beaches, at a look at Hawaii that is off the beaten path.
Mauna lani resort, big island, hawaii romantic honeymoon hotel and bungalows
5) Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows, Big Island of Hawaii
Ideally situated on the Big Island’s Kohala Coast, this eco-friendly property is a tropical home-away-from home. Surround yourself with waterfalls, flowers, and singing birds in the hotel’s soaring atrium then check into your ocean view room, or luxurious villa or bungalow. Spend your days sunbathing, snorkeling, playing tennis, or relaxing in one of the world’s leading spas.

The Mainland U.S – Luxury in a land of diverse beauty
Post ranch inn, big sur, california1) Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur, California
Get an eagle’s eye view of the spectacular Big Sur coastline at this highly celebrated and unique property where you’ll find unparalleled service, rustic, elegant décor, and truly unforgettable accommodations. Every room has a breathtaking view, a private indoor or outdoor hot-tub, and a wood-burning fireplace. Kick back on your sumptuous king-sized bed nestled in the tree-tops and feel the stress of the world melt-away.

2) The Inn at Little Washington, Washington, Virginia
Lovers and gourmands from around the globe flock to this culinary shrine in Virginia’s fabled Shenandoah Valley where chef, Patrick O’Connell, cooks up the best dishes that American has to offer. Each of the Inn’s eighteen rooms and suites is a delicious hide-away for two where you can escape to private luxury. In spite of the Inn’s appeal to perfectionists, the atmosphere here is surprisingly easy and relaxed.
3) The Venetian, Las Vegas, Nevada
In a town of glitz and glam this is a place of surreal design and all out fun. Large suites are tastefully decorated and the service is superb. Take a gondola ride through the impressively reproduced “canals of Venice” and marvel at the Italian frescoes on the ceiling in the lobby as you make your way to one of the world-class shows that Vegas is famous for.
The four seasons resort, jackson hole, wyoming, yellowstone and grand tetons honeymoon hotel
4) The Four Seasons Resort, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Just a hop away from two of America’s natural wonders, the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone National Park, this gem of a property has views that will leave you breathless. With two ski lifts out right out your door and hundreds of miles of superb cross-country skiing, this resort is a super cozy get-a-way during the winter and an exquisite destination for lovers of the great outdoors 365 days a year.
Thatched roof bungalows, a lagoon shaped pool, meditative Zen gardens, and huge hammocks stretch between Jamaican palms, beckon you to relax on this private island paradise. Reserve your room with a jetted tub and outdoor shower. No kids, no phones, no TVs, and one of the most seductively beautiful settings in the world, make Little Palm Island an unforgettable destination.
Mexico – Sun and romance south of the border
Hacienda san angel, puerto vallerta, mexico honeymoon resort1) Hacienda San Angel, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Comfortably opulent and aesthetically divine, Hacienda San Angel is a hidden jewel in Puerto Vallarta’s crown. 5 villas that are all linked together (one of them previously owned by Richard Burton), comprise an unparalleled choice of accommodations in a city full of history and romance. Viva Amour!
2) Hotelito Desconocido, Costalegre, Mexico
Turn off the phone, turn off the lights, and let your soul unwind at this eco-friendly destination built with lovers in mind. 24 palafitos, lodgings built on stilts, perch over a crystal clear lagoon at the edge of the Pacific Ocean where peace, quiet, and tranquility reign. You need only to raise the red-flag from your room to order whatever your heart desires.
3) Las Ventanas Al Paraiso, Los Cabos, Mexico
This window to paradise is an all suite beachfront hotel that envelopes you in beauty and comfort from the moment you arrive. The large, lush rooms have sumptuous beds and bathrooms, and the infinity pool is one of the most beautiful in Mexico.
4) La Casa Que Canta, Zihuatenejo, MexicoLas alamandas, costalegre coast, mexico honeymoon villas
A dramatic cliffside setting, sensuous decor, and the sounds of silence are just some of the perks that await you at this remarkable luxury hotel. Close to the busy tourist towns of Oaxaca and Zihuatenejo, La Casa Que Canta is a secluded destination unto itself, and one you’ll want to return to again and again.
5) Las Alamandas, Costalegre Coast, Mexico
This posh private estate features 6 gorgeous villas nestled in lush tropical gardens on 1,500 acres of pristine tropical paradise. With stunning ocean views from every room, a first-class restaurant, and a guest to butler ratio that will make you feel like a movie star. Enjoy access to the air conditioned beachfront gym, lighted tennis courts, horseback riding, and an unparalleled array of other activities and amenities.

Around the World –Favorite destinations around the globe

Bora bora nui resort and spa, bora bora, french polynesia honeymoons1) Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa, Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Located off the main island on Motu To’opua, this sexy resort has the longest white sand beach of any resort in Bora Bora. You’ll love waking up in your sumptuous over-water-bungalow to a delicious breakfast served to you from an outrigger canoe then, diving into the crystal blue lagoon to discover a world of unparalleled beauty beneath you. Live out your Tarzan and Jane fantasizes here!
2) One by the Five, Paris, France
Hip, impeccably designed, and ideally located in the most engaging city of earth, this upscale hotel exudes the wow factor. The huge floating bed and sensual bathroom make it difficult for couples to leave the room, where an integrated lighting and sound system creates the ultimate in romantic ambience.
3) Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Thailand
If you’re idea of camping is laying on a massage table in a opulently decorated, elevated tent, then this edgy, exciting resort should be perfect for the two of you. Travel by riverboat to this magical place where 3 countries meet for an once-in-a-lifetime experience. Four seasons tented camp golden triangle, thailand, secluded tropical honeymoon resort
4) Riffelalp Resort, Zermatt, Switzerland
With the Matterhorn out your window, and the world’s best skiing at your door, it seems like there would be no reason to stay indoors at this world renowned resort. However, with a large heated pool, steam baths, delicious cuisine, and comfortable, cozy bedroom, you just might be tempted. A shuttle train from Zermatt ensures there are no cars to clutter your view.

5) The Sea Cloud Cruises, Caribbean and Mediterranean Sea
Ahoy! Set sail on this 356 foot sailing ship that drops on-lookers jaws in every port. Designed for an heiress in an era gone by, this teak decked masterpiece is arguably the most beautiful boat ever built. Sit back and watch the 29 sails unfurl as you experience a magnificent cruise like no other. Be sure to ask for one of the original ten cabins with distinctive old-world charm.

SHORT, CHIC, AND OH SO VINTAGE ON THE DETAILS

Check out this great over blouse and skirt by Siri. Most akin to 1950s detail here is the sheer blouse over a strapless bodice. We're seeing more of this design reinvented lately. It was once the hot look in bridal circa the early 50s. Brides wanted it both ways: to be demure and a hint of sexy at the same time . . .




The pouf or cage veil has many variations these days. This one is a hint net with chenille dots.

Real Wedding Inspiration: Amy & Neal

Photography: Sarah Rhoads


DIY Yummies: How to make your own cupcake flags



Michelle at the blog Une-Deux Senses has instructions on how to make your own cupcake flags, for those who don't want to buy them.

All you need is:

Scrapbook paper/ Colored paper/ Patterned paper
Glue stick
Toothpicks
Beads (optional)

Via: Cupcake takes the Cake

Engagement Shoot: Chantelle + Brad

Photography: Next Exit Photography










BALLET INSPIRED

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Just how much does the world of ballet influence bridal? A lot. Traditional ballet costume evolved in the era of the Johann Strass', a young Queen Victoria, and Giselle, an 1840s ballet by Aldophe Adam. Think classic corps de ballet in long white tulle and floral wreath. The 'Willis'--brides to be who had the bad luck to die on the eve of their wedding--wore this exact ensemble in Giselle. Also reflecting the silhouette of the ballet costume as we know it, Queen Victoria clinched the look when she married Prince Albert wearing yards of white lace and dressing her flock of attendants accordingly.

Stephanie James Couture
The most classic ballet-inspired silhouette is a ball gown, sometimes an A-line. Typically a tiny waist sits a top a full gathered skirt.
RS Couture
The ball gown is an hourglass and remains the most dramatic of all bridal The ball gown is an hourglass and remains the most dramatic of all bridal silhouettes. It is as romantic a confection as those seen in the corps de ballet, flowing in swirls of white tulle. The skirt and its under structure are both based on volume. Thus, sweeping skirts equal sweeping entrances especially awesome on brides who know how to work their strut.
Regardless of its formality, a ball gown seems to have flex when it comes to showing up anywhere and looking beautiful. While they go great in all the splendor of a full-blown cathedral ceremony, imagine an outdoor garden wedding where nature, big and diverse as a thousand cathedrals can be the perfect sanctuary.
Tall, slim brides carry this silhouette off best. Also if you’re medium to tall and pear shaped, you’ll benefit from the uber-volume in the skirts that camouflage your every imperfection from the waist down. Petite brides who want some gown drama might be better off going with the more modified A-line since the mass of a ball gown skirt will swallow you up.

Variations of the Ball Gown

Bouffant or Hourglass
-Fitted bodice with cinched natural or dropped waist atop gathered or pleated full skirt.
Bubble-Bouffant shaped skirt swelling out of a cinched natural or dropped waist. Skirt curves in a balloon like shape at the hemline.
Petal-Very structured over skirt. Imagine a fuchsia. A cinched natural or dropped waist sitting atop a full skirt with curving under structure that slits open in the front. Sometimes shows a bit.

RS Couture

An A-line cut is a more modified form of hourglass, bringing with it refinement and understatement. Fitted through the bodice, the A-line can have a slight to moderate flair in the skirt. Dubbed by fashionistas as “The Deb Dress” it’s been one of the most popular silhouettes for the reason it flatters just about every figure type.

La Sposa
Head chic that instantly comes to mind for ballet-inspired bridal is either the floral wreath or modified cloche cap of white feathers emulating The Swan Queen in Swan Lake. A tiara or single floral(s) attached to a bun is also considered a classic ballet touch.

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La Sposa

Olga D’Gallegos

Theme: A Twilight Party

Hi, my name is Mara (actually it's Tamara) and I'm addicted to Twilight! Yes, my inner teen girl is in LOVE with Twilight the movie and books! Who am I kidding, my 20 something year old self is in love with Twilight! I was so excited when I saw The Hostess Blog post an article about throwing a Twilight Party! So much so, I had to share! Here it is!

twilight party ideas

This past Friday I invited my local Twilight-loving friends over to watch the new DVD that just came out… and I’ve gotta say it was a fun excuse for a party! Although my husband wasn’t really surprised that I was decorating for this get-together, he still asked, “Why all the fuss to watch a DVD?“.

The answer is simple of course: for fun! The way I see it is this: I can sit on my couch in my regular living room and watch a movie any ol’ Friday night, so when the movie lends itself to a fantasy-type theme that’s the perfect excuse for breaking out the twinkle lights and red martini’s, why the heck not? Life is too short not to mix things up when you can… and there’s no reason why we should save all the fun for just birthdays and holidays!

twilight party ideas

The main elements of this particular Twilight party were:

mood lighting created with white twinkle lights & candles
red (blood-themed) cocktails, favors, & drinks
apples & Italian food
framed quotes from the book & movie (pictured at top & below), which I dressed up a bit in photoshop, then printed out & framed. (The framed quote above is a line from the movie that Edward says when he catches an apple in a manner that mimics the book cover.)

Want to use these movie quote designs for your party? Download all of them right here: 8×10 quotes (3.1 M pdf) / 5×7 quotes (6.3 M pdf). All of the quotes included in these pdfs are listed at the bottom of this post.

twilight party ideas

I designed these downloadable blood-themed drink labels a couple weeks ago and mocked them up digitally in an earlier post, but they look way better in person when wrapped around bottles of red sodas, juices, and cocktail mixers! (Remove the original labels from the bottles first. Soaking them in hot water for 10-15 minutes first will make this task easier.)

Download these drink labels here (high res pdf format).
Label designs include: i’m thirsty, drink up, type A negative, type B positive, and type O negative

twilight party ideas

More easy party decor ideas: Fill glass vases with apples, pillar candles, floating candles, and dark red acrylic sea glass. Decorate the vases with satin ribbon, black tulle, sparkly stickers, and movie quotes.

twilight party ideas

Rhinestone appliques would be appropriate decor for the vases too… anything sparkly is actually a great reference to the “diamond” effect that sunlight creates on the vampires.

twilight party ideas

Since the changing color of Edward’s eyes are a big part of the story, I thought that would be a good thing to call out with a quote as well. (For those of you that haven’t read the story, black eyes = thirsty/hungry.)

twilight party ideas

If you’re planning to serve dinner at the party, Italian is a great choice for a couple key reasons:
Bella orders Mushroom Ravioli in the Port Angeles restaurant with Edward. (as seen in the picture in the background above, which is from the book Twilight: The Complete Illustrated Movie Companion - only $9.68 at Amazon.com)
In the movie, the Cullens attempt to make Italian food for Bella when she visits their home for the first time. I framed Esme’s line: “We’re making Italiano for you.” to display on the buffet table by the food.

twilight party ideas

On the drinks table, framed signs read: “thirsty?” and “drink up.” (Both signs are included in the ” 5×7 quotes” pdf.)

twilight party ideas

Also served, but not pictured here: red wine & red Pomegranate-Cran Martinis served in martini glasses rimmed with a “hard candy blood drip“.

Last but not least are the party favors…red candy in cellophane bags make for fun, super-easy “blood bag” party favors. These bags are filled with Red Vines (which Bella is also seen eating in the movie) and aptly named Twizzler “Bites“. Both the candy and the cellophane bags are from Target, but there’s also a huge variety of red candies available online.

twilight party ideas

Another fun favor idea: sparkly red lip gloss! These red-shimmer NYC Liquid Lip Shine glosses were only $1.72 each at Target! Display them with a little sign that reads “Vampire Kisses“.

twilight party ideas

*Check out more pictures of the party details over at the Twilight Screening Party facebook album.

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MORE Twilight party ideas:

In my dreamworld – if I had the time/resources/excuse to do even more with this theme – here are some ideas that would top the list (in no particular order):

Use a fog machine and hang umbrellas to give the effect of Forks - rainy and misty.

Include a chocolate fountain in the dessert buffet - featuring white chocolate that’s been dyed red to look like blood, of course!

Serve Red Velvet Cupcakes that look like they’ve been splattered with blood… just like these fabulous creations from Retro Bakery in Las Vegas:

twilight vampire cupcakes

Create napkin rings from glow in the dark plastic fangs… and have more sets of fangs available for photo opps!

Drizzle bowls of popcorn with butter that’s been colored red.

Set up a creative, themed black & red candy buffet…mixed in with “bloody” candy accents and clever details from the movie.

Have the Twilight Movie Soundtrack playing as background music before the movie.

Play some sort of movie trivia or themed game - and give a golden onion as the prize. (This is the same thing that Bella & Edward “won” in Biology; to create: literally spray paint a store-bought onion gold!)

Make “blood drip candles” by drizzling melted was from a red candle on top of a white taper candle, then displaying them in cool candelabras - like this fabulous & elegant Red Acrylic Candelabra from Social Couture.

If this was the theme for a big-budget event, I’d love to recreate the look of the meadow by bringing in lots of foliage and covering some of the tabletops with dewy grass & purple flowers. How fun would THAT be?! And then, of course - there’s that fantastic twinkle light canopy from the prom scene at the end of the movie…sigh…like I said: dream!

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Hope you found some good inspiration here for a Twilight party of your own!


THANK YOU Hostess Blog for posting such an awesome article!!