6 Original Transportation Ideas for Your Wedding

Today is Car Collector Appreciation Day, which made us think about what an impact a couple can make by arriving to or departing from their wedding in a classic car. Sometimes it’s a touch like this that makes the most memorable moments at a wedding. If you’re thinking of arranging some fun or cool transportation ideas for your wedding, maybe one of these six ideas will hit the mark:

1. A trolley. Trolleys make a wonderful option for groups, whether you want a fun way to get your wedding party to and from the venue or if you need to shuttle your guests around. One note of caution is that most trolleys are open-air, which can get windy and possibly ruin hairstyles.



2. A boat or yacht. Arriving or departing on the water can make a dramatic and romantic impact. A boat or canoe would be a good option for the two of you, whereas a yacht would allow you to transport your guests and wedding party, too.



3. A hayride or sleigh ride. With rustic-chic weddings still so popular, a hayride would be a fun way to transport and entertain your guests. If snow’s in the forecast, a sleigh ride would be a wonderfully whimsical option instead.



4. An elephant. Arriving on an elephant’s back is a popular tradition in South Asian weddings. Talk about making a grand statement!



5. A Vespa. If you want an option that’s cute, sweet, and environmentally friendly, rent a Vespa that can cart the two of you off after the reception. Don’t forget the “Just Married” sign on the back!



6. A hot air balloon. This one can be tricky because the conditions have to be just right, but a hot air balloon departure would be simply amazing in photos. Pack some champagne and finger foods to nibble on as you both float away to begin your new life together.

7 Unique Items to Add to Your Welcome Bags

Photo: Beautiful Day Photography
 
We're always looking for fun ways to personalize your wedding, from writing your own vows or sending your pup down the aisle to including family recipes in your dinner menu. Another great opportunity to add a playful touch or tell more of your love story? By getting creative with your welcome bags! The options are pretty much endless, so we rounded up a few of our favorite unique welcome bag additions — take a look at what we came up with!

Local Drinks
While we love Earth-friendly reusable water bottles, swap them out for something that speaks to your wedding's location. Tuck in a couple bottles of your favorite local craft beer or artisan sodas, or pick drinks sourced from your home towns (say, a bottle of Sam Adams for a Boston bride alongside Shiner Bock for a Texas groom). If you want to include wine, seek out miniature bottles over the full-sized versions — guests will be more likely to open a bottle that only holds a glass or two, especially if they're only in town for a couple of nights (and they won't have to worry about checking a bag to get that big bottle home!).

DIY Cocktail Kits
Do you two love Moscow Mules? A can of ginger beer, two mini bottles of vodka, and a fresh lime will give your guests all the fixings to mix up their own. Add a line to your welcome note with quick instructions, or a brief story about why this drink is one of your favorites.

Childhood Favorites
If you're a baker (or have a family member who is!), bust out that secret family recipe and add homemade cookies or brownies to the bag — they're a great sweet treat, especially if you decide that now's the time to share the big secret (even if the recipe is Tollhouse!). Not so domestic? See if your caterer might be willing to do the heavy lifting.


Morning-After Supplies
Advil and Tums are no-brainers, but what about something to get guests going for your post-wedding brunch? Bottles of cold-brew coffee and pastries from a local bakery will give them a little bit of a kick after a night of dancing. In keeping with the cocktail theme, you could also include cans of tomato juice, tiny bottles of Tobasco sauce, and miniature bottles of vodka for Sunday morning Bloody Marys.

Something Fresh
If your wedding is during peak fruit season, tuck in locally-grown snacks for a break from sweet, salty, or baked. Think Georgia or Palisade peaches, New York apples, or Florida oranges. For something fragile like a peach, wrap it in cloth or make sure it's gently placed on top so it doesn't get bruised during transport.

Activity Survival Kits
Getting married on the beach? Tuck in towels and sunscreen so guests can enjoy the sun and sand. In the big city? A map of the public transportation system (and even a day-pass!) alongside blister bandaids will help guests wander the streets. Wedding on a ranch? A bandana and hand salve to soothe their palms after a day holding the reins would be totally welcome.

For the Littlest Guests
Having a kid-friendly celebration? Include snacks like Goldfish or Mini Oreos, perfect for little hands, alongside age-appropriate activities like coloring books, playing cards, or no-mess crafts.

5 Digital Detox Honeymoons

Photo: Courtesy of: Puntacana Resort & Club
 

It's hard to imagine life without fast Internet access, cable, and phones, but — a week? With just your new hubbie and nothing else to interrupt? Now, that could be perfect. Here, five places to escape to together for an unplugged honeymoon.

1. Jade Mountain, St. Lucia
This cliff-side Caribbean resort offers 600 jungly acres, set high above the beaches. Rooms not only don't have TVs, phones, or radios, they also don't have air conditioning: the fourth wall is open, letting in the breezes and the sound of nature; jademountain.com

2. Little Palm Island, Florida Keys
Coconut palms, white sand, clear blue water ... you can actually have all of these things without leaving the country. Hop a sea plane or boat to this private island, just off the coast of Florida, and you'll find an unplugged resort; littlepalmisland.com


3. Rockhouse, Jamaica
For true lovers of getting off the grid, Rockhouse may just be the place: There's no wifi, no TVs, and no phones at this Jamaica property. Expect the two of you, a couple of Red Stripes, a pool, and jerk for dinner, all set to a reggae soundtrack; rockhousehotel.com

4. Petit St. Vincent
This private island in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is so off-the-grid, you raise a flag to signal to the staff that you want service in your bungalow, and the cozy lounge chairs by the surf are actually hammocks; petitstvincent.com

5. Red Mountain Resort, Utah
This fitness-focused resort hidden among the red rocks offers a hiking-and-biking-filled itinerary, along with spa cuisine and a nature-focused experience; ; redmountainresort.com

5 Honeymoon Details Not to Worry About

So clearly, you should not worry about anything while on your honeymoon—the focus should be on having fun and enjoying time with your new spouse. However, there may be a few nagging things that may stress you out just a bit before you leave on your big trip—but shouldn’t. Here’s our list of things not to worry about before you head off on the trip of a lifetime.

The Weather
There’s no need to obsessively check the weather for your honeymoon destination—because you can’t control it. Even if the weather isn’t ideal, have a positive attitude and talk to folks at your hotel to find out fun activities you can participate in. And there’s the always-wonderful activity of snuggling up with your sweetie in your hotel room. Remember, it’s all about spending time with your new spouse, not being outside in the sun 24/7.

Your Wardrobe
You do not, and we repeat, do not, have to buy a completely new wardrobe for your honeymoon. Sure, it’s nice to pick out a few new outfits for the trip, but this is vacation, not a fashion runway. As long as you’re comfortable and relaxed, you’ll look fabulous no matter what!



Planning Every Minute
While it’s nice to have a few planned activities during your honeymoon, do not feel that you have to have every second scheduled out. It’s to have downtime to relax, explore, snuggle, have a leisurely lunch, and generally do whatever you want! Also, you may hear about exciting attractions, or restaurants in your destination after you arrive, so be sure to leave flexibility in your schedule so you can fit in these last-minute activities.

Anything at Home
Remember, you are on your honeymoon. We repeat: You. Are. On. Your. Honeymoon. That means, no emails, no phones, try to go off the grid as much as possible. Assign a friend or family member to check in on your house and be an emergency contact if you’ll be away for a long period of time, but otherwise, try to avoid worrying about any potential issues at home.

Taking a Ton of Photos
Of course, it’s nice to have photos of your honeymoon, but there’s no need to go overboard. If you forget to shoot photos at an attraction, don’t worry too much about it—you were probably having too much fun to think about photos, anyway! And your friends don’t want to scroll through thousands of images on Facebook anyway!

Let the Wedding Planning Begin: The Most Popular Places to Say 'I Do'

By Caitlin Moscatello



Photo: Courtesy of Viceroy Riviera Maya


The peak of engagement season -- that annual rush of proposals between Thanksgiving and New Year's -- is winding down, which means it's time for couples to start planning the big day. Almost a quarter of them will decide on a destination wedding, so we narrowed down the most sought-after spots(using data from Internet search trends, as well as a survey of over 1,000 brides from the wedding network The Knot.


Mexico


Photo: Courtesy of Viceroy Riviera Maya


Not only is Mexico relatively easy to get to, it also has reliably good weather outside of hurricane season, and you won't have issues bringing in vendors from the U.S. Los Cabos and Cozumel --both known for their beautiful beaches -- are popular choices for weddings. But the most desired location in Mexico is Riviera Maya. Stay in a private villa at the Viceroy and host your reception right on the beach, by the pool, or in one of three restaurants. The Grand Velas Riviera Maya, an all-inclusive resort, offers eight different wedding venues, including a chapel in the Mayan jungle that fits up to 143 people.

Hawaii
 

Photo: Courtesy of Halekulani


The long-ish flight will be worth it for guests, who can go snorkeling off the Hawaiian Islands or hiking in their down time. Oahu, Maui, and Kauai are all popular islands for destination weddings, and since you can't go wrong with any of them, start by choosing a resort and work from there. The Four Seasons has three wedding-worthy properties, one of which is on Maui. If you want beachfront views for your ceremony without getting sand in your toes, stay at the Halekulani, which has a ceremony spot on a lush lawn overlooking the water.

Jamaica


Photo: Courtesy of The Half Moon, Rose Hall Resort


The most popular Caribbean wedding destination, Jamaica has been a hot spot among couples for decades. Exchange vows at sunset at the Jamaica Inn on a staircase overlooking the water; if you can get 100 friends and family to attend -- the resort's maximum capacity -- you'll have the whole property to yourself. The Half Moon, Rose Hall Resort in Montego Bay offers five outdoor ceremony locations and the same number of wedding packages for easy planning.

The Bahamas


Photo: Courtesy of One&Only Ocean Club


With direct flights from at least 12 major U.S. cities and easy transfers from Miami, the Bahamas is far enough away without being a hassle. If you want to be near the beach (but not on it), go to the One&Only Ocean Club on Paradise Island. Couples can tie the knot against the backdrop of French Cloisters, on a beach deck, or poolside -- as well as in the resort's upscale restaurant that looks out onto the water. Do your pre-nuptial relaxing at the resort's spa, which includes private outdoor lounges and deep soaking tubs.

Anguilla


Photo: Courtesy of Cap Juluca


Known for being equal parts friendly and beautiful, this British territory has become one of the most searched destination wedding spots. You'll have to fly to St. Maarten to get there, and then take a short flight or a ferry ride to the island -- making this destination best for smaller parties. The Viceroy Anguilla, a favorite for luxury weddings, has six different event spaces, as well as two simpler packages for couples without guests. The beachfront resort Cap Juluca is another top choice, offering couples four unique packages--or the services of on-site wedding planner, who can help you build a customized wedding from scratch.

Las Vegas


Photo: Courtesy of Wynn 


Vegas? Yes, Vegas. While Sin City might be better known for quickie weddings, you can bring your family and friends with you and throw an all-out bash. Stay at the Wynn Las Vegas, where you can get married on a terrace overlooking a waterfall, inside a nightclub, or seemingly every whimsical option in between. If you want to be away from the sound of slot machines, head to the smaller, mellower Four Seasons Hotel, which doesn't have a casino but does have just about every other luxury. The hotel also specializes in same-sex weddings.

Italy


Photo: Courtesy of San Clamente Palace


Couples are throwing destination weddings in Europe at twice the rate they were just a few years ago, and Italy is topping their lists. If you're inviting guests, forget Capri and host your wedding in scenic but easier-to-get-to places like Venice, Portofino, or in the Tuscan countryside near Florence, so guests won't have to take four modes of transportation to get there. Should you decide to pull a George Clooney and marry in Venice, book the San Clemente Palace, a St. Regis property on its own little island that's safely guarded from tourist crowds.

Costa Rica


Photo: Courtesy of The Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort


Central and South America have yet to attract much attention from wedding seekers, but Costa Rica is an exception. Adventurous couples love it for its surfing, volcano hiking, and ziplining -- activities that their wedding guests will certainly want to test out. Not all areas are easily accessible, so keep that in mind when looking for venues. The Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort is only a 20-minute drive from the airport -- but you won't feel that way once you're taking in the tropical forest views. Wedding packages, planning services, and customized ceremonies are all available through the hotel.

Florida Keys


Photo: Courtesy of Pier House Resort and Spa


Florida is the most popular spot for destination weddings in the continental U.S., and even though the Keys aren't all that far away, you and your guests will feel that way without having to deal with passports and customs. Take over some or all of the 18 rooms at Moorings Village in Islamorada, which has a private beach perfect for a marriage ceremony, and is just a 90-minute drive from Miami International Airport. If you prefer to be near the action in Key West, host your wedding at the Pier House Resort and Spa -- it's a short walk to downtown.

Bermuda


Photo: Courtesy of Rosewood Tucker's Point

Between its pink-sand beaches, limestone arches (otherwise known as "Moongates"), crystal caves, and UNESCO World Heritage site that just so happens to be the remains of a church, you'll have plenty of ceremony location options to choose from on this gorgeous, accessible island. Stay at Tucker's Point where you can host a small rehearsal dinner in the resort's private wine room, and then throw your reception poolside the next night.

Wedding Etiquette: 8 Tips To Surviving the Season

Weddings are joyful occasions, but they can also be stressful for guests who must make decisions on finances, shower and wedding gifts, time off from work and attire. There is no doubt, surviving the wedding season takes careful planning, especially when you are juggling multiple celebrations.
Here are some tips:

1. Build a flexible wedding guest wardrobe. Invest in a couple of basics that can be changed up with accessories, jackets, scarves and jewelry. Don't rule out a black dress, a perfectly acceptable option for a wedding.
2. Shop smart. Discount stores, national retailers, and high end consignment shops can all be a good source for quality clothing and accessory items that won't break the bank.
3. Be a savvy gift giver. Find out where each couple is registered and sign up to receive store coupons from those retailers. Start early so you have ample time to watch for sales and special deals. This allows you to make your purchase(s) before other guests have picked the best, most affordable gifts. Be creative; if cookware is on the list but you can't afford to buy the entire set, buy one piece and include a favorite cookbook, cooking utensils, hot pads or something decorative and useful.
4. Stick to your budget. Being a gracious guest doesn't mean overextending yourself. If the registry selections are beyond what you can afford, feel free to go off the registry or give a gift card with a manageable amount. Factor in the costs of shower gifts, travel expenses and other pre-wedding celebrations you may be invited to.
5. RSVP wisely. Don't confuse an invitation with an obligation to attend. Consider the relationship you share with the bride, groom or family members of the couple. A close friend, or immediate family member falls into the "must attend" category. If it's the son or daughter of a close family friend, or coworker with whom you have a strong relationship, that could also be a "yes." If it's a distant cousin or a college friend you haven't seen in years, consider RSVPing "no." The same rule applies to gifts; when you RSVP "no" to attending but aren't sure whether to send a gift, let your relationship with the couple (or their family) be your guide.
6. You don't really have a year to send a gift. There are persistent myths about wedding gifts, and the belief that you have a year to send a gift is one of them. Good manners dictates you send a gift sooner rather than later. If it slipped your mind and you're feeling bad that six months has passed, send something, along with a note that says, "Congratulations on your marriage."
7. Send the gift ahead. The best way to deliver a gift is to send it to the bride and groom in advance so you know it won't get lost in the stack of presents, especially if you are giving money or something fragile. If the wedding is taking place in another city, purchase from a company that offers free shipping.
8. Look for deals on a destination wedding. If you decide to attend a destination wedding, research ways to stick to your budget. Don't feel pressured to stay at the same hotel as the wedding party. Often the best rate can be found elsewhere, just minutes away. Take advantage of any travel discounts you may be eligible for through credit card rewards or associations you belong to. Don't hesitate to seek out a friend to room with to share costs. Given the expense involved in traveling to the ceremony, you are within the bounds of propriety to spend less on a gift than you might otherwise.

You will enjoy yourself as a wedding guest much more if you are not dreading the arrival of a stack of outrageous bills when the parties have ended.

The Top 10 Bachelorette Party Destinations in 2014—Plus, a Cool Online Tool for Planning Your Weekend

Where bachelorette parties used to be one wild night on the town, more brides are using their bachelorette as an excuse for a real girlfriends' getaway with their 'maids. Both party options (one day vs. several) have their merits, but I'm a fan of the mini-vacay, when money permits. With that in mind, here are the 10 hottest destinations for bachelorette parties in 2014, according to the clever gal behind The Bach, an online tool that helps streamline bachelorette party planning while you're busy with, you know, everything else that comes with planning a wedding (and having a life).


1. LAS VEGAS
Fabulous Las Vegas is still the number one destination for both bachelor and bachelorette parties. Head here for rowdy pool parties, elaborate clubs, lively casinos, fantastic restaurants, and entertaining shows.

2. MIAMI
If your group loves warm weather and exciting nightlife, Miami is the perfect destination. Bachelorette parties flock to South Beach for wild pool parties, white sand beaches, and some of the steamiest nightclubs in the country.

3. NEW YORK CITY
NYC is known for its amazing nightlife and award-winning restaurants. With a huge variety of unique daytime activity options to add, your bachelorette group can do anything from a trapeze class to a sail around Manhattan.

4. NEW ORLEANS
If the bride is looking for a truly rowdy party scene, nothing compares to the bars on Bourbon Street. By day, your group can try flavorful creole cuisine, admire the distinct NOLA architecture, and enjoy some great jazz.

5. NAPA VALLEY
Napa Valley is all about drinking in style and relaxing over incredible wine-country views. Here you can taste some of the best wines in the country, relax at world-class spas, do a river cruise along the Napa River, or try something adventurous, like a hot-air balloon ride.

6. AUSTIN
As the live music capital of the world, Austin is the perfect destination if the bride loves catching shows. During the day, go tubing or rent a boat, and don't miss out on Austin's delicious Tex-Mex and barbecue spots.

7. CHARLESTON
The always-charming Charleston offers beautiful architecture, delicious Southern-style cooking, and a lively bar scene. During the day stroll through the quaint streets, hit the beach, or go out on a boat for the afternoon.

8. SCOTTSDALE
Scottsdale's warm weather, scenic landscapes, and gorgeous spas provide an ideal setting for a relaxing girls' getaway. At night, check out the lively bars and restaurants in the Old Town.

9. ATLANTIC CITY
Atlantic City is a favorite with many East Coast brides because they can relax on the beach during the day, then try their luck at gambling before dinner and dancing at one of the casino clubs.

10. CHICAGO
This cosmopolitan city has a fantastic restaurant and bar scene and tons of fun group activities to try. Bachelorette parties can choose from cooking and art classes, comedy and cabaret shows, burlesque classes, and more.

Do you want a bachelorette weekend? Or just one night? Which of these cities would you pick?
Brides who want a multi-day party, remember: The bachelorette getaway is a luxury, not a mandatory event, so you need to graciously give cash-strapped bridesmaids or those with kids—or, heck, those who just don't want to use their vacation days—a break.

8 Things You Only Learn About Your Partner By Traveling Together

You witnessed his yen for ticking things off his list on your second date and learned about his fear of cumin when you moved in together. But there are a few insights you only gain by getting a flat tire together in Montana. Or Mongolia.

By Amy Shearn
1. How He Looks In An "I <3 NY" Shirt And Beard
Maybe you've never seen this man in any non-earth-tone hue, but the second you get to the tropical hotel he's in a Hawaiian shirt. Maybe he is a secret souvenir guy, the one who buys a "Yellowstone" ball cap that first day and proceeds to wear it every day of vacation until the last, when he promptly retires it to a stack of place-marking caps you never noticed before in the back of his closet. And then there's the facial-hair situation. There are those men who go all Conan O'Brien at the prospect of a week or two off, and suddenly you know what he looks like with a beard. After all, vacation isn't just a chance to visit a new place, it's an opportunity to experiment with being a new person.


2. His In-Flight Elbow Span
Forget all that business about how he treats his mother. You can really tell what kind of husband someone will be by sitting beside him on a 20-hour flight in economy seats to Cambodia, which is where you find out if he offers you his arm as a pillow, or hogs the arm rest and leaves you two centimeters of stretching-out space.


3. His Number
And by "his number," I of course mean how many times he can skip a stone on the surface of a pond. There is some secret skill lurking in that familiar creature. It might be stone-skipping or sea-glass-spotting, but you never knew it, since you live in a landlocked city. It might be knowing the Latin names for trees and wildflowers you've never seen before. Emboldened by unfamiliarity, your polite partner might turn out to have a gift for haggling umbrella prices during a downpour.


4. The Twang
Most of us put some serious work into becoming the people we are. So by the time you first encountered your partner it's possible that he'd consciously shuffled off the local vernacular of Nowhere, Noplace, thoroughly Gatsbied away the accent of his hometown. Which is why you will never hear him "Uff da! That's good, hot dish and pop!" until you've had a little lunch with him and his grandmother in Bemidji, Minn.


5. His Late-Night-Emergency-in-a-Foreign-Land Alter Ego
What an adventure you two are having together! Out until 2 a.m., exploring this fascinating new city! Such life-affirming discoveries: elderly people folk dancing in a moonlit square, the charming local drinking game, the fact that your quaint B&B locks its doors at midnight. Wait, what?
Now your significant other transforms into his late-night-in-a-foreign-land alter ego. Is he Sneaky-Break-In Guy, capable of jimmying a "quaint" lock with a credit card? Is he Panic-And-Blame Man, immediately turning on you with, "I told you we should check!" and descending into a sulk faster than you can say, "You did not!" Is he Mr. Adversity-into-Adventure, taking this mishap as an excuse to go skinny-dipping and sleep on the beach? And how do you like being his sidekick/henchman/superhero-squad-boss?


6. His Post-Boredom Brain
There is no boredom like driving-for-10-hours-through-the-night boredom, when in the occasional illumination of street lamps you will see, perhaps for the first time, your partner's resting state, be it pensive silence, philosophical inquiry or inventing complicated rhyming songs that make you laugh harder than you've ever laughed before.


7. His Weekend Portuguese
You're in Lisbon for a long weekend, an exotic adventure tacked on to a work trip. You will likely never be back. Here, then, is the language-barrier litmus test. Maybe he pantomimes everything, managing to make himself understood and revealing a heretofore hidden gift for physical comedy. Or maybe he charms everyone you encounter with his clumsy attempts at the Portugese he picked up from the guidebook and the podcasts he listened to on the way over. It seems like a small thing, but when you think about it, this reveals how he communicates -- whether he is about gesture, or facial expression or words, and whether he learns as much local slang as he can, for no real reason other than he's interested in language, that he is a person who fully inhabits every day, a person who is not afraid of looking silly, a person who wants to live large and completely, not because he should, but because he knows no other way.


8. How Much You Like Him At Hour 56
In those first courting days you wanted to be together all the time, forever. And you were. Except for when you went home. Or to work. Or the gym. Or out with your friends. But when you're traveling together there is no work, no gym, no network of friends, no household errand to run. There is just you and your beloved, alone together in the world, 24/7. This can fray even the most tightly woven relationship. So you say, "Okay, I read a thing on the Internet and now I understand that I am technically an introvert, which merely means I get my energy from time spent alone, so please don't take it personally when I say I am going to take the afternoon to myself to linger alone in this art museum and I will see you at dinner." And he says, "Okay. Have a great time. Let's meet at that place near the hotel you wanted to try." And you explode with love for him, and forget immediately how annoying he was in the fish market, and by dinnertime you miss him more than you ever could have imagined, and are brimming with ideas for all the many adventures you hope to go on together.