Genevieve talks to us about trends and tips for Destination Wedding dresses.

Chiffon destination wedding dresses are one of my favorite as they are simply stunning and the fabric gives the wearer a soft, elegant look that appears to flow as they walk. This, along with the fact that chiffon destination wedding dresses are made from a lightweight and airy fabric, makes them perfect for beach weddings. This, in turn, makes chiffon destination wedding dresses extremely easy to pack into a suitcase because the fabric is wrinkle-resistant and hard to damage and, yet, it looks simply stunning when worn.

Chiffon destination wedding dresses come in knee-high to full-length gowns with varying neck lines and styles available. However, the most popular chiffon destination wedding dresses, at present, seem to be halter-neck and strapless styles that accentuate a bride's neck and shoulders.

 

Destination Wedding Dress Source Style: Silk Cascade Off-White with Chiffon Drape Front By: Metro Fashion Online at: http://www.illuna-fashion.com/

Typically, chiffon destination wedding dresses will cost approximately US$250-US$350. Of course, you can find cheaper and more expensive gowns. However, it will depend on your budget and the quality of the dress that you are seeking as to the final price that you pay for your destination wedding dress. Please remember, though, that beauty is not necessarily linked to the amount you pay for your dress.

Chiffon destination wedding dresses are fantastic for the bride who wishes to add an element of romance to her wedding and is seeking a feminine softness to her look -- one that is captivating and endearing.

Genevieve talks to us about trends and tips for Destination Wedding dresses.

As a fashion connoisseur, I have noted that the wedding gown has certain trends that emerge, much like other clothing, and there are designs that are considered as ‘in' style. This season's destination wedding dresses, according to hit bridal shows that have graced the catwalk, are those that feature the following aspects:

Asymetric Necklines - Instead of having a dress that covers both shoulders, this season's destination wedding dresses are covering one and exposing the other, so that brides can be a little bolder and daring.

Color - Where pastel tones, such as pale pink and blue were in vogue, this season's destination wedding dresses are making a statement with bold splashes of color on gown embellishments and trimmings. The most popular colors used in this season's destination wedding dresses are green, magenta, and yellow.

Shorter Lengths - This season's destination wedding dresses are shorter in length with knee-high skirts proving to be very popular for brides of all sizes and shapes.

Delicate Fabrics - the soft, flowing fabrics, such as organza and tulle are in this season's destination wedding dresses, and make them a perfect selection for the outdoor wedding.

Structured Skirts - This season's destination wedding dresses have skirts that make a statement, such as a flared A-line, which accentuates body shape and defines curves.

Vintage Dresses - Lace and beading along with soft fabrics, such as chiffon, are making a comeback in this season's destination wedding dresses with designs gravitating around the bygone era.

Genevieve talks to us about trends and tips for Destination Wedding dresses.

I have recently been researching informal destination wedding dresses, and I can not believe that these destination wedding dresses can be just as glamorous as those that are formal. Plus, they are better suited to beaches and outdoor locations.

And, what is even better, is that there is no need for you to sacrifice romance or style. In fact, informal destination wedding dresses are just as beautiful as formal dresses. Plus, informal destination wedding dresses use lighter weight fabric and are simpler in design, so that you feel at one with your surroundings rather than being concerned over your dress.

Informal destination wedding dresses also come in a range of colors, which makes them an excellent choice for the bride who is seeking a non-traditional wedding. In addition to this, informal destination wedding dresses come in varying lengths, so if you wish to select a gorgeous knee high wedding gown, you can. There are also many designs that are full length and cater to those brides who are seeking a more glamorous look.

Overall, the beauty of informal destination wedding dresses is that you have a greater range of stunning dresses to choose from and you are then able to cater to your budget better. Plus, you are bound to find something that you love rather than just like.

Genevieve talks to us about trends and tips for Destination Wedding dresses.

I absolutely adore celebrity destination wedding dresses as they are often unique in that a designer has made them especially at the celebrity's request. Take, for example, Gwen Stefani's unforgettable pink and white wedding gown. The dress was simply gorgeous as was the bride.

While celebrity destination wedding dresses are often elegant and expensive, there is no reason why you cannot create a similar look while sticking to a budget. Here are a few pointers to get you started.

To find dresses similar to celebrity destination wedding dresses for yourself, visit wedding boutiques both on-and-off-line and browse through the dresses that they have available. Make a note of those you like, and, if possible, take photos so that you can compare these at a later date.

You may also like to create your own design, and this can be done simply by contacting a bridal dressmaker near you and then showing them pictures of the celebrity destination wedding dresses that you like. A good dressmaker will be able to give you an approximate cost and also a timeframe for completion of your dress.

However, please remember that there are literally hundreds-maybe even thousands-of celebrity destination wedding dresses to choose from as well as dressmakers, and the best way for you to select a dressmaker that works for you is to meet them in person. When you call on dressmakers, ask to review their references and testimonials as well as assess their personalities before you commit to having them make you the destination wedding dress of your dreams.

Genevieve talks to us about trends and tips for Destination Wedding dresses.

Buying perfect destination wedding dresses from the many destination wedding dresses that are on the market is not an easy task. Take it from an overeager shopper that it is sometimes easy to become a little overenthusiastic.

Therefore, to save you from the tidal wave of chiffon and silk, I am going to offer you a few pointers that I had to learn the hard way.  When seeking out perfect destination wedding dresses, you need to consider the following:

The location you are marrying in - Hot, beach weddings, for example, will see you shopping for lightweight destination wedding dresses rather than heavy, long- trained dresses.

Search for dresses that are you - Look for destination wedding dresses that personify you and make a statement to others about your style.

Spend less time in one store - When you go in search of destination wedding dresses, spend a maximum of 2 hours in a store, so that you do not feel overwhelmed by the selection, and when you find a dress you love, buy it; don't procrastinate.

Less is more - If you are searching for destination wedding dresses that are simple and are not beaded, then have more accessories, such as jewelry and a tiara. However, if you are selecting from more detailed destination wedding dresses, then remember the ‘less is more' philosophy and wear minimal jewelry and accessories.

Colored dresses - If you are selecting your dress from colored destination wedding dresses, then choose a color that complements your skin tone as well as your hair and eye color because this will make you look sensational.

Genevieve talks to us about trends and tips for Destination Wedding dresses.

There is nothing that I love more than looking online at designer destination wedding dresses, especially in today's economic climate where finding a bargain has become more of a necessity. After all, it does not really matter how much we earn, we still like to feel that we have found value when we shop.  Therefore, it is important that, when shopping online for designer destination wedding dresses, we know how to sort quality from the inferior products, because we do not want to be walking toward our husband-to-be as our dress starts to unravel. 

But, how do you know that you are buying designer destination wedding dresses from a quality designer, I hear you ask.

When buying designer destination wedding dresses online, it pays for you to look for designers who have strong reputations and can provide you with verifiable references and testimonials. This way, you are able to ascertain that the designer destination wedding dresses you are interested in are the real deal and are well made instead of a cheap copy that is not worth the expense.

Also, ask if the designer provides you with a certificate of authenticity when you make a purchase. This document is a guarantee that your purchase is from the genuine designer of destination wedding dresses and that your dress is not a copy.

Sharon, a recent visitor to our blog, had asked a question of our resident etiquette expert Jodi Smith.  You can find her question and Jodi's answer below.  As always, if you have a question for Jodi please post a comment to any of the Destination Wedding Etiquette posts and I will forward your question to her.

From Sharon:

I have been invited to a destination wedding in Punta Cana. I am a single female and live in South Carolina. The guests are all paying their own hotel and flight. What is proper etiquette as far as bringing a guest to this type of wedding? The wedding is in June and the invitations have not gone out yet. I was told by the Bride guests were not allowed. I have a problem with that considering I am paying over $1700 to attend their wedding and don't prefer to travel alone. Is it unreasonable of me to want to bring a guest considering I am paying for everything. Please help...need your expertise....I understand the rule of not allowed to bring a guest if your not engaged but does this apply to a destination wedding where the bride and groom are not paying for anything but the reception?

From Jodi:

Dear Guest,

In general, guests are not allowed to invite others to a wedding.  However, with a destination wedding, it is not uncommon for guests to extend their trips and turn the wedding trip into a vacation.  While you certainly can invite a friend to join you on the trip, you should understand (and make it clear to your guest) that the guest is not invited to the wedding festivities. 

You should be very diplomatic about who you share your vacation plans with as you do not want to be seen as trying to pressure the bride into including your guest too.

I do hope this helps,

Jodi   

Jodi R. R. Smith is a nationally known etiquette expert and author.  To email your etiquette emergency, click to http://www.mannersmith.com.  Copyright © 1996-2008 Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting. All rights reserved. Permission is granted to reproduce, copy or distribute this newsletter as long as this copyright and full information about contacting the author is attached.

Destination Wedding Specialist Jennifer Wayland tells us why she loves putting together Destination Wedding Packages to Beaches Turks and Caicos

A place where kids can be kids and parents enjoy a vacation of their own, Beaches Turks & Caicos is a Caribbean fantasy, only 15 minutes from the Providenciales Airport. The Caribbean Village is spotted with pastel-colored bungalows, the French Village is lined with cafes and restaurants, and the spectacular new Italian Village is grand and warm all at the same time.

More on Beachs Turks & Caicos...

There are 8 pools in all: fantasy pools with swim-up bars, zero-depth entry for the little ones, waterslides, and an adults-only whirlpool almost big enough for laps.  Then there's the biggest pool of all - the Caribbean Sea on the shores of Grace Bay, voted by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler as the "best of all island beaches worldwide."

I witnessed at least 3 destination weddings a day at this romantic ultra-inclusive resort! The wedding and reception options are, in my opinion, second to none. The expansive white powdery sand beach has very private areas perfect for weddings and private receptions. My favorite spots, however, are for 2-20 guests in the oceanfront gazebos and elegant oceanfront decks with modern Pottery Barn type furniture made exclusively for Sandals Resorts.

The kids programs at Beaches Turks & Caicos are broken down for infants, ages 2-4 years and ages 5-7 years. There are also extensive Teens & Tweens activities scheduled throughout each day including a Teens & Tweens "only" Boat Cruise. Adults and kids enjoy frequent visits and performances from the Sesame Street Characters.

The XBOX Game Room features unlimited gaming with all of the latest XBOX games. Beaches is a testing center for XBOX, so you can be one of the first to ever play many of these XBOX games.

Included watersports are scuba diving, waterskiing, ocean trampolines, snorkeling, windsurfing, Hobie Cats, kayaks, paddle boats, including instruction and equipment! Included land sports are tennis (free group lessons), volleyball, basketball, golf, croquet, and a vast selection of board games and other games.

There is a state-of-the art fitness center, and The Red Lane Spa facilities offer complimentary saunas, steam baths, and therapeutic hot & cold plunge pools. You will enjoy up to 16 dining venues including casual, gourment, adults-only restaurants, late night buffet, and snacks available 24 hours a day.

Nightly entertainment includes karaoke, movies, dance/nightclubs for teens and adults. I was one of the first visitors to the new Italian Village, which is scheduled to open in January 2009. The new wave simulator pool, lazy river and water slides, however will be completed in March. The new disco has a glass floor and is built over the lazy river. Teens will enjoy these facilities during the day; only adults will enjoy the glass-floor disco at night. Many with spectacular ocean views, each family suite at the new Italian Village can accommodate minimum 5 people.

Destination Wedding Specialist Elizabeth "Cookie" Randall tells us why she loves putting together Destination Wedding Packages at the Iberostar Tucan resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico

Reasons why I love this resort.

1) They will only do 1 wedding per day.

2) The wedding coordinator is extraordinary. She corresponds with the bride as often and whenever she wants to email. I have often gotten responses from her within a few hours of emailing. She goes above and beyond to make every wedding she does a dream for the bride and groom.

3) The rooms here are reasonably priced.

4) This is a family friendly resort.

5) The food is good and there are 4 specialty restaurants.

6) If you have 50+ guests you receive one of the specialty restaurants for a private wedding reception dinner.

7) The cost for additional guests above the basic wedding package is very reasonable.

8) You can do a cocktail reception on the beach with music and magical lighting.

9) You may schedule a rehearsal dinner at no cost for all guests staying at the resort.

10) I get many families and couples that reschedule their vacations just to stay at this resort.

11) They offer both beach and jungle settings for their weddings.