Elope to the enchanted island of... PUERTO RICO!


Sarah & Andrew eloped to the Fort
My most popular packages:

Elope to San Juan Beach Location:
Personal Wedding Concierge Service/Wedding Coordinator


Your personal coordinator will:
  • Provide you with unlimited e-mail & phone consultations to arrange your special day ahead of time
  • Once you arrive to Puerto Rico, your coordinator will personally assist you in obtaining the marriage license & doctor's certificate. Service includes transportation to government agencies, lab and doctor's office (Does not include lab, doctor's & license fees)
  • Suggest and arrange dinner reservations for after the ceremony
Secure the following ceremony services for you:
  • Premiere San Juan Beach Ceremony Location
  • Your choice of Officiant (Christian, Jewish, Hindu)
  • Bouquet of Flowers for the Bride
  • Boutonniere for the Groom
  • Unity Sand Ceremony
  • Ceremony Photography;You will receive at least 50 digital pictures
  • Champagne Toast
  • Coordinator on site the day of the ceremony to ensure everything flows smoothly

Elope to the Fort in Puerto Rico:
Personal Wedding Concierge Service/Wedding Coordinator

Your personal coordinator will:
  • Provide you with unlimited e-mail & phone consultations to arrange your special day ahead of time
  • Once you arrive to Puerto Rico, your coordinator will personally assist you in obtaining the marriage license & doctor's certificate. Service includes transportation to government agencies, lab and doctor's office (Does not include lab, doctor's & license fees)
  • Secure permit required for Fort location
  • Suggest and arrange dinner reservations for after the ceremony
Secure the following ceremony services for you:
  • Premiere El Castillo de San Cristobal (The Fort) Ceremony Location
  • Your choice of Officiant (Christian, Jewish, Hindu)
  • Bouquet of Flowers for the Bride
  • Boutonniere for the Groom
  • Unity Sand Ceremony
  • Ceremony Photography;You will receive at least 50 digital pictures
  • Champagne Toast
  • Coordinator on site the day of the ceremony to ensure everything flows smoothly

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Picking The Perfect Sunscreen

OUUUUCH!
I recently had a wedding and the bride looked AMAZING! But it could have been a disaster... the day after her wedding she relaxed all day at the beach and did not notice (breezy & overcast day) that she burned herself to a crisp. Imagine going down the aisle in a white wedding dress when you are as red as a lobster. OH! what a nightmare it could have been! So my advise to brides heading to a destination wedding site in a tropical climate... wear lots and lots of sunscreen, reapply, reapply, reapply - whether the sun is out or not. 

Here are some sunscreens I use and LOVE.
  1. Protection of the go-Dermalogica Solar Defenes Wipes. $22, make applying sunscreen a cinch. Run a wipe over exposed areas, as you would a cleansing cloth, and - voila! - you're covered. And don't forget the tops of your feet!
  2. Go makeup free-Anyone who doesn't like to use foundation with sunscreen can try DDF Enhancing Sun Protection SPF $30. The formula contains tiny color spheres that adjust to any skin tone to even it out. No cover-up necessary.
  3. Fight fine line-You don't have to choose between a wrinkle-reducing lotion and a sunscreen. Roc Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Daily Moisturizer, $20, gives you a dose of line-curbing retinol along with SPF 30 to stave off future damage.
  4. Look sun-kissed (safely!)-Build up a fabulous faux tan-plus, stay protected from UV rays-with Garnier Nutritioniste Ultra-Lift Glow Anti-Wrinkle Firming Moisture Cream SPF 15, $15. Its skin-tinting ingredient give just-enough color.
  5. FAVORITE:Bye-bye mess-No more sticky hands, Aveeno Continuous Protection Sunblock Spray SPF 70, $11, has a nozzle that sprays nongreasy sunscreen at any angle-even upside down.
  6. Superpower sunscreen-Antioxidants have been shown to boost the effectiveness of sunscreen (they fight free radicals, also produced by the sun's radiation). Try Ocean Potion Natural Mineral Sunblock SPF 30, $10, which contains the potent antioxidant cranberry seed oil.
  7. So easy-Skip oily sunscreen altogether by reaching for powder-based Colorescience Sunforgettable Micronized Mineral Sun Protection SPF 30 Orb, $40. Sun-shielding zinc and titanium dioxide give instant protection and subtle sparkle.
Great sun protection advice
from your wedding planner,
Lisa

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Friday Funny :)


Flower girl says: EEEEEEWWWWWW!!!

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Best Beach Reads: Summer Roundup of This Season's Hottest Books

I guess because today was my first Book Club meeting of the season (The Great Gatsby was our book of the month) it made me want to discuss books. And since you are planning a destination wedding-moon you will want to bring a good book or two to read once all the chaos is over! Here are a few pics from the NY Times Best Seller's List for Summer and since it's always summer in PR... read on!


Mothers & Daughters
  • Certain Girls by Jennifer Weiner (Atria) Chick lit grows up-and so does Cannie Shapiro-in this humorous and wise sequel to the best-selling Good in Bed. Weiner captures the frustrations and anguish as well as the joys of raising an almost-teen girl whose sole goal in life is to thwart her mother. You'll breeze right through this cleverly touching charmer.
  • The English American by Alison Larkin (Simon & Schuster) When very British Pippa learns her birth parents are actually American Southerners she goes in search of them-and ultimately herself-in this comedic clash of cultures.
Thrills & Chills
  • The Host by Stephanie Meyer (Little, Brown). In this romantic sci-fi tale by the author of the hugely popular vampire series Twilight, Melanie Stryder's body has been taken over by the soulful alien Wanderer. Unlike most of the human race, Melanie fights back by refusing to relinquish control of her mind. Instead she haunts Wanderer with her memories of Jared (now in hiding) until the two have joined forces-and shared emotions-and go in search of him. A disquieting look at possession and the undying power of love.
  • The Body In The Gallery by Katherine Hall Page (William Morrow). For caterer, amateur sleuth and mom Faith Fairchild, solving a whodunit-there's both a skeleton painting and a dead body to deal with-may have to take a backseat to what's eating her suddenly rebellious teenage son.
A Little Romance
  • Summer Blowout by Claire Cook (Voice). You won't have to don your sunglasses for this sunny delight by the author of Must Love Dogs. Makeup artist Bella Shaughnessy has a thing for lipstick-with names like Catfight, Damaged and Revive-a family that gives new meaning to the expression blended (thanks to a half-sister who's dating Bella's ex-husband) and a ban on men (see ex-husband). Which is too bad because she's just me Sean Ryan, an entrepreneur with sparkling eyes and a proposal, business that is-or is it?-for Bella. As refreshing as an icy drink on a sultry day.
  • Twenty Wishes by Debbie Macomber (Mira). Four women, four friendships. four lives gone slightly awry. To help take control of their destiny-especially in matters of the heart-Anne Marie suggests they each write a wish list and then try to make them come true. An inspiring tale of getting what you want in unexpected ways.
Moving Memoirs
  • Split: A Memoir of Divorce by Suzanne Finnamore Dutton). With the speed and precision of a machine gun, Finnamore give a chapter-by-chapter dissection of her dissolving marriage, and somehow manages not to leave readers despising her ex. She turns to her now-remarried mother for advice, but it is the supportive safe haven of her friends that truly brings her comfort. Far from a bitter divorce diatribe, this is a witty, graceful journey through denial, acceptance and ultimately triumph. 
  • Forward From Here: Leaving Middle Age And Other Unexpected Adventures by Reeve Lindbergh (Simon & Schuster). In a series of essays, Lindbergh reflects on the past-raising kids, being a teacher and her relationship with her famous father, Charles Lindbergh-but also ponders what the future will hold. With her warm and witty style, she give us solace for the troubles and imperfections of life and inspiration to continue to live it to the fullest.
Miscellaneous Reads:
  • Same Kind Of Different As Me, by Ron Hall & Denver Moore
  • Still Alice, by Lisa Genova
  • The Bright Side Of Disaster, by Katherine Center
  • The Rest Of Her Life, by Laura Moriarty
  • Secret Confessions Of The Applewood PTA, By Ellen Meister
  • Love The One Your With, by Emily Giffin
  • Change Of Heart, by Jodi Picoult
  • Last Seen Leaving, by Kelly Braffet
  • The Second Journey:The Road Back To Yourself, by Joan Anderson
  • Three Cups Of Tea, by Greg Mortenson
Happy reading!
Your wedding planner,
Lisa

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Glam For Less

I am so fortunate to have sassy, informed, intelligent readers who offer tips on sites that have been helpful to them and so here is one that I have to share!


One of my readers who just happens to be named Lisa, e-mailed me about this great site called Glam For Less. I checked it out and WOW!  Great costume jewelry priced just right. Take a look... Glam For Less.

Thanks Lisa,
Best wishes to you on
your upcoming nuptials!
Lisa, PR Wedding Planner

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Personalized Touch





I was searching for the perfect "business" bag. A bag that would make my life easy and organized. I was tired of carrying around two or three handbags & totes to hold my laptop, emergency wedding kit, phone, PDA, wallet, water bottle, keys, wedding magazines, files and vendor information. I went to every department & luggage store on the island and could not find the "perfect" bag for me. Thank goodness for the internet and google blogs. I put in relevant search words and sure enough I found, Personalized Touch. She is a seamstress and she had recently started dabbling in personalized totes and cosmetic bags and so I took a chance and reached out to her. After a few e-mails I was able to relay what I needed and in return she came up with a design idea that seemed perfect. Next she sent me a couple of monogram ideas for my business name and I decided to go with a gorgeous script in a delicate pink. She then e-mailed me fabric samples and after I sent her my favs she came up with a medley of not 2 but 3 amazing fabrics that look seamless together.  $144 dollars later (can you say BARGAIN!) I not only have the perfect bag... it is truly a piece of art!  My order also included a custom emergency wedding kit (large cosmetic bag) & key holder (wristlet that attaches to a hook in my tote so no more digging & digging to find my keys). And as a gift with purchase she was kind enough to send me a beautiful custom wallet, for my business cards, credit cards and contact information and two custom pens (the fabric for the bags are inserted in the pen, genius!). Needless to say I am absolutely thrilled!!!


If you are looking for something special for yourself or as a gift,  check out all of her gorgeous & functional items on her blog and Etsy shop. Tell her Lisa from PR Wedding Planner sent you and receive a special gift!

Personalized Touch another great find from,
your wedding planner,
Lisa

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Wedding & Bikini Countdown

Ok, so you have decided to have a destination wedding.  Well now you not only want to feel & look great in your wedding dress, you will want to look your best in your bathing suit as well. Here are a few tips to help you feel your best in both.



One month before-
Commit to 10 minutes a day, three times a week. David Kirsch, Heidi Klum's trainer, says this is the bare minimum you can do to see results in 30 days. His wedding dress/bikini short circuit: 10 squats, 10 sumo lunges (picture a crab walking), 10 push-ups (the real kind). "This covers the entire body-everything you want to get jiggle-free", says Kirsch. 
Mix up your routine-Many people plateau when they do the exact same routine again and again. Varying your exercises, "you force your body's muscles to stay challenged," explains London trainer James Duigan, who works with Elle Macpherson. "Elle switches between the Versa Climber, the exercise bike, running and boxing."
Learn your ABC's-The big three diet no-no's?Alcohol, bread and processed carbs. "By eliminating these, my clients have dropped 5 to 10 pounds in a month", says Kirsch. Duigan also advocates a "whiteout": "Eighty-five percent of my clients see immediate results when thay cut out bread and pasta."
Trade in your office chair for an exercise ball. "To stabilize yourself on the ball, you have to sit up straight and tall, which engages your abdominal muscles," says Jay Wright, co-owner of N.Y.C.'s Peak Performance gym. 
Sit tight. Here's a new way to multitask: Clenching your butt muscles during the day as you sit at your desk, checking e-mails. "If you do this 50 times in row, four times a day, you will definitely see results," says celebrity trainer Gunnar Peterson, the motivating force behind Jennifer Lopez's power tush.
Sleep it off. Studies show that people who get 8 hours a night eat less-just ask anyone who has ever dipped into a pint of dulce de leche at 2 A.M.

7 Days to Go...

One week before...
Double your cardio. If you jog 20 minutes three times a week, do twice that, says L.A. trainer Teddy Bass, who works with Cameron Diaz and Lucy Lui. Not only will this burn extra calories, it will also help you shed water weight. 
Up your intake of olive oil. It may help ward off belly fat, says L.A. nutritionist Christine Bybee. In the short term it can also satiate you. "Eating more fat and protein helps you stay fuller longer," says Bybee, who recommends drizzling it over salads.
Watch your portions. While it's good to eat protein and fat, you shouldn't be swallowing a side of fatty beef, says Bybee. "Have a palm-size portion of lean filet mignon."

Two days before...
Drink more water and eat water-rich foods like lettuce, celery, watermelon, oranges and grapes. They'll help flush out your system and banish bloat, says L.A. nutritionist Carrie Watt. At this point, you should also start avoiding fiber-heavy choices like broccoli and cauliflower, which can distend your stomach.
Apply self-tanner. To avoid streaks, start with one light coat of tanner. "By doing it a couple of days in advance, you give yourself wiggle room in case you wan to add another coat to deepen the tan," says Linda Hay, lead makeup artist for Victoria's Secret. When applying tanner to tricky areas like knees, elbows, wrists and hands, dilute it 50-50 with lotion to prevent color from looking splotchy.

The day before...
Stop swallowing air. Sure, they have no calories, but all those air bubbles you take in when chewing gum or drinking carbonated beverages take up valuable room in your tummy. "And forget anything with artificial sweeteners," says Wiatt. "Sorbitol, mannitol-they all cause stomach upset and bloating."
Steer clear of sneaky salt traps. Ever wonder why mixed greens taste so good at a restaurant? Before dousing them with a sodium-rich dressing, many chefs salt the leaves. From a bloat perspective, you might as well be eating chicken noodle soup or salted edamame.
Get a body wrap. Though temporary (results last 24 to 48 hours), wraps can shrink inches from your body by eliminating excess fluids, says spa expert June Jacobs.

The night before...
Dine on grilled salmon and zucchini. "You don't want to eat any vegetables that are to gassy," says Wiatt, noting that this high-protein, low-calorie combo is "mellow on your stomach and easy to digest." Instead of mixing yourself a calorie-laden cocktail, brew up some dandelion tea, a natural diuretic, advises Bybee.

The morning of...
Don't starve yourself! It could backfire in a bagel frenzy. Instead, eat a wedding dress/bikini-friendly breakfast of non-fat yogurt topped with banana slices and walnuts, suggests Bybee. Still feeling nervous about your figure? When facing anyone you want to impress, "square your shoulders, turn your hips to one side and -bam!-a waist appears," says Bass. This pose is especially important during you wedding picture session.

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Perfectly Organized!

When I'm swapping purses or going from beach tote to pocketbook I often forget things I need. How can I be more organized? Well in my search I found it!
The VIP (Very Intelligent Pocket) Bag for the fashionista in you is pure genius. Choose (shown top to bottom) pink, azure, yellow, (not shown) army green, camel, or black nylon.  With nine pockets, the organizer hold essentials - phone, wallet, makeup, keys - that can be pulled out of your pocketbook and dropped into a beach tote or carry-on. Makes changing items from one bag to another simple. Silvertone hardware. Drawstring top. Front pocket with lobster clip. 6 1/2"H x 10"W $55

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Just Add Water

If you are having a destination wedding you certainly have to pack a "honeymoon" wardrobe. I blogged about Athleta (LOVE everything they have) and now for some shoes... remember jellies, well they were back and in full force this summer, everyone from Chanel to Kate Spade made a pair and now that summer is over you can get them at a great price. They are light, come in great versatile colors and go with everything from a dress to jeans... here are my picks;



  • Jingle Belle - Briolettes and a sleek strap make this jelly work with even closely tailored pieces. Beaded PVC, Salvatore Ferragamo
  • How Glam - Pair with a sassy dress or your bikini for cool look. PVC, Kors Michael
  • To Flip Over - The thing about neons: They get easier to wear as they move father from your face. PVC, Kate Spade
  • Clear Genius - It is clear that this 'Paradize' sandal is the perfect honeymoon accessory. PVC, clear or black, Steve Madden
  • Just A Few Left - So popular and hard to find but I found a few in teal. PVC, Old Navy from $5
  • Radical Clarity - For the ultimate jelly... the Gladiator! PVC, clear or black, Kenneth Cole
  • Deal of the Day - Color takes center stage this season, as the Los Angeles Times noted when they featured these colorful jelly sandal with ankle ties. So cute you have to buy more than one. PVC, all colors, Newport News $5
NOTE: The summer season is over so great prices but limited availability. Good luck!


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Top Ten First Dance Playlist

We have booked the DJ for a few of my brides and are now talking play-lists. Researching what songs are most popular made me realize that although couples have a wide range of taste in music & genera's... certain songs are universal, stand the test of time and are every ones favorites.  See if the First Dance list below appeals to you...


TOP TEN FIRST DANCE SONGS
1. "Unforgettable" (Nat King Cole)
2. "The Way You Look Tonight" (Frank Sinatra)
3. "It Had To Be You" (Harry Connick, Jr.)
4. "What A Wonderful World" (Louis Armstrong)
5. "Endless Love" (Diana Ross and Lionel Richie)
6. "As Time Goes By (A Kiss Is Just A Kiss)" (Michael Feinstein)
7. "When A Man Loves A Woman" (Percy Sledge)
8. "At Last" (Etta James)
9. "From This Moment On" (Shania Twain)
10. "Our Love Is Here To Stay" (Harry Connick, Jr.)

More Top Ten to come in future blog entries.

Timeless music by
your wedding planner,
Lisa

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Pinwheel Escort Card

I am always looking for unique ideas to share with my brides... here is one I think is unique, whimsical and budget-friendly, Pinwheel escort cards (place card). Make your guests feel like kids again with this childhood favorite. 


Take a look at Crossroads Cottages for more Pinwheel ideas.

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7 Monogram Tips & Tricks


Monograms are a very chic and modern way to place your personal signature throughout your ceremony & reception. Here are my favorite 7 monogram tips...

  1. Guest Book - Use your married monogram in your wedding colors to turn your guest book into a stylish coffee-table topper.
  2. Programs - Go beyond an ordinary letter and create a graphic logo that is uniquely you.
  3. Escort Cards - Instead of tents, shape your cards into chairs and stamp them with your initials.
  4. Invitations - Introduce your wedding style - and monogram - in writing.
  5. Cake - Make your married monogram the focal point of your dessert.
  6. Favors - Give guests a tasty treat tied off with a reminder of the happy couple.
  7. Chapel Doors, Reception Doors or Floating In A Pool - Your initials in roses anywhere.
If you would like to take a look at a blog that showcases monograms as an artform... checkout, Delovely Designs.  She can make everything for you from water bottle labels to invitations.

Monogram advise,
from your wedding planner,
 Lisa

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Friday Funny :) By My Bride To Be Ebony

My future bride Ebony's experience at the famous Feline's Basement "Running of the Brides" this morning at their Boston location :) Enjoy!

It's rare I come across women and men that are rude and trashy. When i say there was a stampede I am not kidding you ! Grandmothers, children, etc. were all being tripped, assaulted, tossed aside, etc as men and women grabbed for dresses. We got there at 5am and were pretty early as the doors didn't open till 8am. By the time they opened the doors at 8 there were several thousand people there. Literally and figuratively all hell broke loose when they opened the doors. I should have known it was no joke when we passed the first aid station that had been set up outside . It was actually pretty funny. You really would have thought they were giving dresses away and not at the $700 price point. None the less after a good two hours of mayhem my crew and I had to leave as I need to shop in a little more controlled environment. Some women had luck! It's just the type of thing you have to do once if you live in Boston. Good experience. It did motivate me to call and make an appointment with a "proper" bridal salon when I got in the office. lol !

Thanks Ebony!

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Seeking A Unique Gift For The Bride, Bridesmaids or Mother of the Bride?


Photo Courtesy of Bello Photography
Here it is... 
Whether you want “something blue” for yourself, ‘something new’ to thank your bridal party, or ‘something old’ turned into an extra special bag, 
Freddy & Ma can help.

They recommend you contact them to speak with one of their wedding stylists and determine which option is the best fit for you on your special day.


Here is a sampling of some of the services they offer. Prices and lead times are available upon request.

Color Matching
Do you love one of our patterns but wish it came in a different shade? Send us fabric swatches and we will create custom color ways in complementary hues to restyle any of the thousands of prints that we offer.

Leather clutches
Looking for a solid color? Choose from a luscious array of Italian lambskins in 25 hues or 48 shades of rich satin fabric for the body of your bags.

Custom fabrics
Do you have an heirloom piece that you want to turn into a clutch? Unique vintage fabric to coordinate with your dresses? Send us a swatch and we will turn it into our best selling ‘hazel’ purse.

Custom linings
Want to keep your customization a secret? Go for a solid color on the outside of the bags and a different printed lining in each bag.

Purse party
Looking for a unique party idea? Add F&M to the festivities and we will present your guests with all the tools needed to design beautiful bags for themselves. This service is offered in the New York/Tri State and Los Angeles Areas.

Great find
from your wedding planner,
Lisa


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Juan's Hair & Makeup Designs

Brides are always on the hunt for a fantastic artist in the hair & makeup field... well I have found him!  His name is Juan and he is truly brilliant!  His hair designs are timeless, classic and can withstand Puerto Rico's heat & humidity.  Same can be said for his makeup... not caked on or streaky, just clean, natural and glowing.  Furthermore, he is a true professional, on- time (hard to find in PR due to Caribbean time frame of mind), prepared and most important attentive.  He listens to what you want and executes it!  


We worked together and came up with some wonderful packages (see below).  Should you need a true artist to help you achieve that glowing radiance on one of the most important days of your life... contact me and I will pass along your request to the master of hair & makeup design, Juan.


Great hair & makeup advise,
from your wedding planner
Lisa

Juan's Hair & Makeup Fees (Mon-Fri)
Bride - Hair & Makeup - $300 & up
Bride - Hair - $175 & up
Brides Maid, Maid of Honor or Mother of the Bride - Blow & Up-do -  
Short Hair - $30 & up
Med. Hair - $45 & up
Long Hair - $60 & up
Brides Maid, Maid of Honor or Mother of the Bride - Up-do - $50 & up
Brides Maid, Maid of Honor or Mother of the Bride - Makeup - $50 & up
Note:  All service are performed conveniently in your hotel room or location of your choice.  Many extras, flat-iron, color touch-up, manicure, pedicure etc.

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Need a great honeymoon wardrobe - ATHLETA!

If you are looking for a "honeymoon" wardrobe that is stylish, versatile and high quality look no further... Athleta is all of that and more.  They offer, swimsuits, swim-dresses (my favorite), lightweight shorts, t-shirts and many many more options that range from casual to dressy.


Check them out at ATHLETA.

Great wardrobe find
from your wedding planner,
Lisa

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EyeTour Puerto Rico Wows Visitors

EyeTour Puerto Rico was designed with the modern traveler in mind. Visitors can explore Puerto Rico's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage through extensive video content by downloading videos, maps, MP3's, photo galleries, and an exclusive Spanish-English translator to their personal video or MP3 players, such as an iPod.


EyeTour Puerto Rico is the free official interactive guide to Puerto Rico, sponsored by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company and available at eyetourpuertorico.


Great travel info from 
your wedding planner,
Lisa

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Leaders of the Pack!

Wouldn't it be great to breeze through airport security with all the beauty products you'd possibly need for your wedding and honeymoon away?  Behold, the travel packet.  I filled a quart-size clear plastic bag with 20 single-use sundries and still had room for more (including makeup).


After a beach run or a mountain hike pour Kneipp Herbal Bath Salts ($3.50) into a warm bath.  Juniper, an anti-inflammatory, soothes tired muscles.

It's about as fun as floss gets: the tiny Crest Glide Deep Clean To-Go packet ($4 for 30). Rip open at the middle and pull the two ends apart to reveal a perfect length of mint-flavored floss.

The saturated cloth in MD Skincare 4-in-1 Facial Treatment ($35 for 30) removes dirt and excess oil while it fights free radicals with green tea and blueberry extracts.

Use the Herban Essentials Lemon Towelette ($15 for 20) as a hand sanitzer, or dab it on your face and chest for an easy (and fresh-scented) way to cool off.

The sweet musk and citrus fragrance in The Laundress Signature Detergent ($20 for 8) is so delicious that you'll almost hope for a ketchup stain.

It there's no time to shower and your hair needs a refresher, give it shine and scent with a wipe of Victoria's Secret So Sexy High-Shine Hair Revivers. ($12.50 for 6)

It takes only a minute to rub the Comodynes Convenient Cosmetics Self-Tanning Towelette ($40 for 20) over clean, dry skin.  The light formula dries much faster than a lotion; golden color develops in a few hours. 

Be Fine Warming Clay Mask ($2) soaks up shine and calms the skin with cardamom and arnica-the perfect antidote to a date spent outside in the heat and humidity.

A long flight or an extreme climate can dry you out, especially around the delicate eye area.  Shiseido Benefiance Eye Treatment Mask ($37 for 10) has vitamins C and E and hyaluronic acid to help skin retain moisture.

Too much sun, wind and chlorine may have you yearning for a deep conditioning treatment mid-trip.  Massage Ted Gibson Hair Sheet Treatment ($35 for 5) through dry hair, starting at ends.  No need to rinse it out.

There isn't any excuse to skip sunscreen when it's this easy to apply (and reapply): A quick swipe of Shady Day Daily Sun Protection Wipes SPF 30+ ($10 for 5) keeps you covered.

Great packing advise,
from your wedding planner,
Lisa


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GREAT FIND!

CUDGE.NET is the choice of party planners, wedding professionals and floral designers, for the finest wedding and party supplies, candles and holders, and more--all at the lowest prices.


Great find,
from your wedding planner,
Lisa

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Isaac Khephren Peterman

A new addition to the PR Wedding Planner Family of couples who have eloped!

Congratulations Sarah & Andrew Peterman on the arrival of your angel,
Isaac Khephren Peterman
He blessed Sarah & Andrew with his arrival on Sunday, August 10, at 8:20 am, weighing in at 6 lbs 6 oz and measuring 20 inches long.

May God bless him and may you share a lifetime together of health, joy and love! 

He is simply adorable just like his mom!!! 

My advise:
Sarah sleep whenever possible!
Andrew change diapers often! 

Good parenting advise
from your wedding planner,
Lisa

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<3 Renewing Your Wedding Vows <3

In this world where divorce seems to be the norm, a couple managing to stay together through thick and thin deserves some celebration! If you and your spouse have made it to a significant anniversary, or you just want to have a "do-over" wedding, consider a vow renewal and where would it be more romantic then in Puerto Rico.

Reasons You Might Want a Vow Renewal

  • You want to celebrate your 5-year, 10-year, 25-year etc. wedding anniversary
  • You only got married legally before, and now want to marry religiously
  • You only got married religiously before, and now want to marry legally
  • Your first wedding had some element of disaster, and you want a do-over
  • You didn't have much money for your first wedding, and you want a more elaborate wedding
  • You got married with only a few people present, and you'd like to say wedding vows in front of lots of family and friends
  • You've had some rocky times in your relationship, and would now like to reaffirm your commitment to one another
  • You think it would be romantic
Bad Reason To Have a Vow Renewal Ceremony
  • You miss wedding planning and want to throw another party. The focus of any wedding, but especially a vow renewal, should be the promises you are making to each other, and the sacred ritual of marriage, not the party.
How to renew your wedding vows
The good news is, there are far less rules and dos and don'ts about vow renewal than almost any other kind of ritual. It can be as simple as the two of you alone on a beautiful beach at sunset reciting vows you have written, or a fancy affair with hundreds of guests.

First Steps
Contact me a wedding planner, so that we can begin figuring out what style of ceremony/reception you'd like, deciding a budget, picking a date and finding the perfect site. Some couples who are older will have much more money than when they wed the first time; others whose parents helped the first time will have far less. The good news is that vow renewals are generally cheaper than first weddings, and with less rules on what "should" be done, you can really concentrate on the elements that are important to you.

How Elaborate Should a Vow Renewal Be?
The answer to this question lies in your own reason for wanting a vow renewal ceremony. Many people chose to renew their vows because they were so caught up in the planning and the partying of their first wedding, they felt the focus of the day was taken off of the ceremony. Therefore, most vow renewals tend to be intimate celebrations, with only close family and friends present, and a lunch afterwards at a nice restaurant. Others who didn't have much money for their first wedding have very lavish ceremonies and parties afterwards.

Even if you want a big and expensive celebration, there are still a few things you should avoid:
  • Don't have attendants. If you have children, you can give them a special role in the ceremony, but there is no need to designate them as bridesmaids or groomsmen. You may wish to invite your original bridal party and recognize them during the ceremony. 
  • Don't register for gifts. This is not the time to upgrade the china. Wedding gifts are to help a newly-married couple set up their household together.
  • Don't throw bachelor or bachelorette parties. This is an obvious one – you aren't bachelors or bachelorettes!
Who Should Lead the Vow Renewal?
Since presumably you have already done the legal marriage, this ceremony will not be legally binding. Therefore, you can ask a judge or clergy member to officiate, but you can also ask a friend or an adult child to lead the ceremony. For a simple vow renewal, you don't necessarily need an officiant at all.

Vow Renewal Invitation Wording

If you are hosting it yourself:
The honor of your presence
is requested at
the reaffirmation of the wedding vows of
Sharon and Martin Jones
Saturday, March 25 etc.

Or

Please join us
as we renew our wedding vows and celebrate 25 years together
Sharon and Martin Jones
Saturday, March 25 etc.

If your children are hosting it:
The children of
Sharon and Martin Jones
Request the honor of your presence
at the vow renewal ceremony of their parents
etc.
Wedding Vows at a Vow Renewal Ceremony

You'll probably want to say something a little different than first-time brides and grooms would. Many people write their own vows, but it really does not matter how you come up with the words it's the meaning behind them.  Take the time to really think about the past, present and future and what you have experienced together and the words will flow.

Contact me for further information and ceremony ideas.

Happy Commitment Wishes,
from your wedding planner,
Lisa

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Should We Marry & Honeymoon in PR?

Many couples ask me... "since we are marrying in Puerto Rico what other island should we go to for our honeymoon that is close by?" My response is always... "stay right here!" See when you are in the midst of planning a wedding you arrive in Puerto Rico and won't have the time to take in everything that this amazing island has to offer. This small post has been created with one purpose: to dispel any myths of Puerto Rico as a sleepy island in the Caribbean with a few historic sights worth checking out. There is almost no end to what you can do here, and the professionals who provide the services are excellent. Ever wanted to scuba? Go caving? Surfing? Rappel down a mountain? Explore a rainforest? You'll find unparalleled opportunities to do it here. And for those of you who prefer milder adventures, there's kayaking in the bio-bays, personal watercraft tours, horseback riding ... and so much more. If you're looking for a bit of action on your honeymoon, check out what this island can do for you.


Contact me for further honeymoon ideas.

Great honeymoon advise, 
from your wedding planner,
Lisa 

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Roll With It...

Creative gift idea for your bridal party or welcome gift bag...


Thanks to foam strips within and handy straps without, this mat makes it so easy to take to the beach and so comfy to rest while at the beach; $19.99 each

You can find it at Creative Living

Great gift ideas,
from your wedding planner,
Lisa

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Another Great Gift Bag

As I have mentioned in the past finding a great "welcome gift bag" is high on a bride's priority list. This is one cute, affordable and great for the environment. A pack of 5 is only $9.95 plus shipping & handling.


You can find it on Amazon...

Another great find,
from your wedding planner,
Lisa


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With Love & Charity, Cartier

For a beautiful & generous gift idea for the bride to be, maid of honor or anyone who is a very special part of your wedding planning (hint, hint) read on...

Cartier, one of the fashion industry’s most respected designers, has decided to share his success (and wealth) in order to benefit a number of different charities. Cartier recently released a hot new bracelet called the Cartier Love Charity Bracelet, an extension of the original Love Bracelet from the 1960’s. This incredibly unique idea has become extremely popular with a number of celebrities all over the world.

Basically, Cartier has designed a very simple, elegant and trendy bracelet design. The designs were originally popular in 1969 and have become even more popular since their recent re-release. Each design is sold in selected boutiques around the world for approximately $450. Cartier will donate $100 from each bracelet sold to the charity of the corresponding color rope.

Here’s a list of the colors, which charity they represent and a celebrity supporter for each charity:
  • Red – Youth AIDS (Rosario Dawson)
  • White – The Salma Hayek Foundation (Salma Hayek)
  • Baby Pink – USA Harvest (Scarlett Johansson)
  • Green – Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust (Edward Norton)
  • Blue – UNICEF – Sarah Jessica Parker
  • Purple – Kanbar Institute of Film and Television (Spike Lee)
  • Black – Mercy Corps/Gulf Coast Recovery (Michael Stipe)
  • Deep Pink – The *** Cancer Research Foundation (Liv Tyler)
For more information on the bracelet click here Love Charity bracelet.

For information on Cartier's Love Day events, visit... Love, Cartier.

Happy Love & Charity Cartier shopping,
Your wedding planner,
Lisa

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Green Totes That Benefit Your Guests & Our Earth


Check out these cool-looking eco-friendly totes, that not only make a great welcome gift bag... they make every day Earth Day!


To the left: Chic Details - snap shut patch pockets, rope handles - dress up basic cotton canvas. 

Other favorites:
Sales of these recycled polypropylene totes benefit environmental programming for children. Get Hip Get Green, $6 each $25 for five.

Sturdy, colorful rice sacks produced in Cambodia and recycled as totes are just one of so many choices offered at Ecobags. Check out their website for totes that range from $6 - $30.

This website Hayden-Harnett donates the proceeds to all of their organic cotton bags to Farm Aid to promote local, organic, and sustainable farming. Now that's great!!!

This pesticide-free organic cotton satchel is biodegradable; you can even plant it when it wears out. Check out The Green Loop.

Each sale of this reversible burlap bag designed by Lauren Bush provides a school year of meals for one child in need.  World Food Programme Feed Bag $60.

And finally these beach ready totes, made in Maine from recycled sails, can withstand wear and tear. Sea Bags, $110.  They may be pricey but they will last a lifetime!

Great earth saving advise
from your wedding planner,
Lisa

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The Knot Wedding Shop

Looking for the perfect favor... look no further "the knot" wedding shop has everything and anything you need for your special day.  They offer personalized items of all kinds along with cake toppers, toasting glasses, bells, decorations and of course favors... just to name a few.  Check out their website I am sure you will find everything you are looking for. At checkout enter code SPR8 and receive 10% off your first order :)



Happy shopping
from your wedding planner,
Lisa

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