Articles + Ideas

Diary of a Ritz Fan: Marina del Rey Edition

Filed in Articles + Ideas under Bachelorette Parties, Bridal Showers, Featured, Food and Drink, Honeymoons and Travel, Locations, Restaurants, Spas and Pampering

My colleague Jan invites me to spend the upcoming weekend with her at the Ritz-Carlton Marina del Rey, where she’ll be staying while profiling new locations for Here Comes The Guide. I jump at the chance for some quality Ritz time. It’s a well-known fact around the office that I ♥ the Ritzes. (What can I say? I have a soft spot for superior customer service and a swanky setting!)

Under the Tuscan (Honey) Moon: An intimate destination wedding in Tuscany, Italy

Filed in Articles + Ideas under Honeymoons and Travel, Real Weddings

The planets were aligned when San Francisco residents Chris and Nicole Spence met via online dating in 2004. But the sun and the moon never rose brighter over the verdant Tuscan countryside than when the two said their vows at 500-year-old Villa Buonvisi, a private estate in quaint Lucca, Italy.

Central Coast Event Locations: Think Beyond the Winery

Filed in Articles + Ideas under Featured, Honeymoons and Travel, Locations, Planning, Receptions, Rehearsal Dinner, Restaurants

California’s Central Coast, celebrated for its charming wineries and photogenic vineyards, also lures visitors with landmarks like Hearst Castle, and the chance to golf, surf or go horseback riding amidst spectacular natural scenery. If you’re planning a honeymoon or destination wedding in one of the area’s picturesque towns, you might think beyond the winery.

Have a “Hang-Loose” Honeymoon: Five Tips to Packing Your Carry-On

Filed in Articles + Ideas under Expert Advice, Featured, Honeymoons and Travel

Whether it’s for your honeymoon, holiday travel or a romantic weekend getaway, these days it pays to pack it all in your carry-on suitcase—and avoid extra charges for checked luggage. The best way to be a breezy bride at the airport is to remember you’re on the vacation of your life…and to “hang loose” when you’re packing. Keep it simple, easy and fun. Follow these five tips, and you’re off to a carefree start.

Central Coast Weddings: Gorgeous Vineyards, Chic Wineries & Great Weather!

Filed in Articles + Ideas under Ceremony, Featured, Honeymoons and Travel, Locations, Receptions, Rehearsal Dinner, Trend Watch

With all its gold medals and high style, the Central Coast retains its small-town friendliness, and locals have positively thrown out a red-carpet welcome to bridal couples from near and far. Recently we did our own Central Coast Wine Country investigation.

Tips for a Romantic Getaway

Filed in Articles + Ideas under Expert Advice, Honeymoons and Travel, Sex Romance Relationships

Whether you’re planning a retreat to a quaint B&B or a luxurious resort, here are some thoughts to keep in mind as you prepare.

A Dozen Romantic Getaways

Filed in Articles + Ideas under Honeymoons and Travel, Locations, Sex Romance Relationships

WANTED: A special place for a romantic escape. Scenic, natural surroundings required. Must be lavished with sensual creature comforts. Obliging yet unobtrusive service preferred. Does this imaginary classified ad sound like something you might have written? If so, we’re answering your cry for help with a dozen of the best places in California for a romantic weekend—choice spots bound to inspire relaxation and heartfelt moments. (No need to thank us—an emailed photo of your happy, rejuvenated selves will do!)

P.S. We Love You: Destination Weddings Come to Palm Springs

Filed in Articles + Ideas under Ceremony, Honeymoons and Travel, Locations, Receptions Palm Springs is HOT and we're not talking about the temperature. The Palm Springs of the new millennium is young, chic, and a great place to party. Here are some of our own suggestions for local activities and “can’t miss” Palm Springs ceremony and reception locations.