When you schedule your first appointments and meetings with vendors, it’s tough to know what to expect and what to come prepared with. We spoke with two fabulous Pittsburgh florists to give you the scoop on how to best be prepared for your initial floral meeting.
“Please come prepared with photos (and color swatches, if available) of the Bridal and Attendant dresses. It’s also helpful to bring any photos that may convey the style, color palette, or types of flowers that you are interested in having at your wedding. It’s fine to have these images on a cell phone or tablet, as they can be e-mailed upon request.
Typically, the florist will ask many questions at the initial appointment to get the required information and some will put it into a floral pos system. Brides should ask what to expect following the first appointment regarding contracts, deposits, and any payment structures to be aware of. A bride should also discuss pricing and share any thoughts she may have in regard to her budget.”
“When a Bride schedules an initial consultation with Allison McGeary Florist, we recommend they complete our floral information form, which outlines the quantities and color preferences for the personal flowers (ie bouquets, boutonnières, corsages, etc), ceremony flowers and reception decor.
We also recommend bringing pictures of the Bridal and bridesmaids gowns, reception centerpieces that she finds appealing, and any other images or swatches that may give visual cues as to the desired style and overall look for the event. As designers, we love the visual and verbal descriptions because they help us design an event that pulls together the many unique elements that make a wedding such a personal celebration.”
So there you have it! Thank you, Rachel and Allison, for the great advice. We always love the stunning floral creations that they come up with for our clients.
Today we have Mary Ann Ramsey from Betty Maclean Travel talking with us about great honeymoon destinations! Here is what she has to say…
Looking for a nearby and elegant honeymoon destination, think of Naples, Florida (in my own backyard). Naples has beautiful beaches and can be easily reached from Pittsburgh. Roll out of bed at LaPlaya Beach and Golf Resort and be right on the gorgeous beaches. The Ritz Carlton Naples Beach Resort and The Waldorf Astoria Naples are also on the beach… just a short walk or jitney ride and you are there! Often dolphins are swimming and playing just off the beaches and the sunsets are amazing (and so romantic).
At the end of 2014, be on the lookout for the opening of BahaMar, on the Bahamian Riviera. This resort is slated to be the newest, hippest of destinations. It’s easily accessible, too (only 15 minutes from the Nassau airport in the Bahamas). Rosewood, Mondrian and Grand Hyatt will have properties in BahaMar, along with a Natural Light casino (the largest in the Caribbean).
If a more exotic island destination is on your wish list, I recommend island destinations like Zanzibar, Mozambique or the Maldives.
Zanzibar is an island paradise located just off the coast of Tanzania, Africa. Zanzibar has wonderful beaches and offers water sports such as scuba diving, deep sea fishing and kayaking. Ending the day with a romantic sunset sail in a traditional dhow (wooden boat) is heaven. Adding in a day excursion to Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its spice markets is an extra bonus.
One of my favorite hidden gems off of the coast of Southern Africa, Mozambique, offers amazing beaches and casual luxury. Great cuisine combined with snorkeling right off the beach is perfect for honeymooners.
The Maldives in the Indian Ocean is my personal favorite. Stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise water set the stage for a picture perfect honeymoon. There are many price ranges to select from for accommodations, including over-the-water villas and very private accommodations reachable only by boat. It is one of the most romantic spots on earth! Great for snorkeling or diving (or doing nothing!). Combine the Maldives with a stopover in Dubai, on the way home, and you have a win-win honeymoon combination.
And last but not least: Cruises. Often overlooked by honeymooners, as they feel a ship will be too restrictive, a cruise is another great option. There are so many options in the luxury market starting with small intimate 100-passenger vessels with amazing cuisine. And with destinations from the Galapagos to Europe, to Indonesia and more, a cruise is a great alternative to consider. Think of a cruise as a floating resort offering you a different adventure every day. Small luxury ships offer intimate dining options. Whether it is a romantic table for two or dining in the privacy of your suite, there is something for everyone. Contrary to popular belief, on a luxury ship, you dine when you want and with whom you want.
Never try to arrange a honeymoon without a travel adviser. Leave the planning to an adviser who can make your plans seamless. A good adviser will spend time with you over the phone or via email getting to know your likes and dislikes and will then combine what each of you want to do.
Of course, I would always recommend one of our Betty Maclean Travel, Inc travel advisers. We experience the world as “real people” and are constantly on the lookout for new destinations and new experiences. Our staff is young and understands what a honeymoon couple wants and needs. As a Virtuoso affiliated agency we have access to special rates and promotions. Our clients love all of the extra amenities and VIP treatment they receive when they plan their honeymoon with us.
About Betty Maclean Travel Inc.
Betty Maclean Travel has been passionate about providing professional travel planning to sophisticated travelers for over 35 years. The travel advisors at Betty Maclean Travel have been recognized by The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Conde’ Nast Traveler, Luxury Travel Advisor, Savuer and Travel + Leisure publications. As a proud member of Virtuoso, a by-invitation-only International Travel Organization, Betty Maclean Travel is able to provide exclusive values, offers, benefits and accessibility. For more information, visit: http://www.BettyMacleanTravel.com, email us at [email protected] or call us at 1-800-865-8111.
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