Ritz-Carlton Weddings: January – June 2013 - (Page 59)

Bring the indoors out ... An outdoor setting that incorporates home décor will wow guests. “Hang chandeliers and string lights in your tent or from trees, and use uplighting for drama,” says Conway. “Elevate the décor with lounge areas that feature luxurious furniture.” Dress up tables with fine china and silver flatware. “For tables, burlap runners and color-stitched napkins make a statement without competing with nature,” says Michael Davis, owner of Cloth Connection, which provides linen rentals for special events. ... and the outdoors in Potted trees under tents make a huge impact. “In-season flora such as branches, moss and wildflowers can be used in tablescapes and other décor,” says Beth Helmstetter, whose boutique design firm helps clients plan intimate weddings around the world. And don’t overlook the scents of nature. “Incorporate fragrant fruits and herbs such as lemons, lavender and rosemary into floral arrangements,” says Conway. Use hardy blooms Choose flowers that will stand up to wind, sun and heat. “Peonies, roses and calla lilies work well,” says Helmstetter. Use the blossoms throughout your décor, such as in loose bouquets tied to chairs or petals sprinkled down the aisle by children in your bridal party. Sprigs of herbs tucked into napkins make a charming detail. A farm-to-table menu builds a connection with your wedding area. “Guests love to know when the ingredients were sourced on-site or nearby, so cite the origins on the menu,” says Helmstetter. “Regional wines, microbrew beers and cocktails made with farm-fresh ingredients will complete the feast.” F r o m s e a s i d e t o m o u n ta i n t o p, t h e s e Fo u r o u t d o o r v e n u e s a r e s e t to da z z l e ◗ Urban Oasis For a wedding as iconic as the Big Apple itself, the 14th-floor terrace of The Ritz-Carlton New York, Battery Park lends sweeping views of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty. ◗ Mountain Splendor At The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, the awe-inspiring Sierra mountain range is the backdrop to picturesque outdoor terraces, a slopeside meadow and a private ballroom balcony. Eat locally ◗ Garden Enchantment Nestled in a historic former monastery in Portugal, the elegant gardens of Penha Longa Hotel turn an openair wedding celebration into an otherworldly enclave of natural tranquility. ◗ Beachfront Bliss Exchange vows in front of the glittering East China Sea at The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa — the only international luxury resort on a chain of islands prized for their unspoiled beauty.

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Ritz-Carlton Weddings: January – June 2013

Ritz-Carlton Weddings - January 2013
Contents
Expert Advice
Beauty
Trends
Dazzling Deco
Cakes, Inside and Out
An Outdoor Affair
Old-World Charm
A Cultural Mosaic
Royally Wed
Honeymoons
Traditions

Ritz-Carlton Weddings: January – June 2013