Real Wedding! Jeff & Whitney -Terranea Resort

It's Wedding Wednesday and we've got a great destination wedding to share with you all today! Jeff and Whitney Barnett wed on August 12, 2012 and chose to have their wedding at the breathtaking Terranea Resort (terranea.com) overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Read below on how this incredible couple met, got engaged and eventually came to marry at this stunning location. Congrats to the new Mr. & Mrs. and thanks for sharing your special day!

PLACE/CITY LOCALE OF WEDDING Terranea Resort in Rancho Palos Verdes

NAME OF PHOTOGRAPER Joel Maus-Studio EMP (studioemp.com)

                                                             

HOW THEY MET We met at Taco Tuesday at El Ranchito on the Newport peninsula through a mutual friend

THE PROPOSAL Jeff proposed on Christmas morning. We woke up, opened all our gifts and he had wrapped a beautiful ribbon through our Christmas tree that had a white leather bag attached, when I opened the bag, there was a ring box and Jeff got on one knee and proposed. I cried, a lot. It was perfect! 

NUMBER OF GUESTS 200 Guests

BRIDAL GOWN My dress was by Vera Wang (the Gemma). It was strapless with beautiful fabric pieces going across the entire gown. It was really fitted to below my knees and then got very full with a big train. It had little Champagne sequins and pearls throughout the bottom.

WEDDING COLORS White, Ivory, Champagne, Nude- very natural soft colors 

WEDDING CAKE Our wedding cake was insane! I wanted to go all out! It was 6 tiers, all white with a huge flower draping down the front. We got it at Sweet and Saucy (sweetandsaucyshop.com), by far the best cake I've ever had!

 FAVORITE MOMENT I have two….my first most memorable moment was when I walked down the aisle and Jeff saw me for the first time... His face was priceless. My second favorite moment was our first dance... There were over 200 hundred people watching yet it felt like Jeff and I were the only two people on the room.  We danced to "You Make It Real" by James Morrison

 THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE THE WEDDING Romantic, Vintage, Classic

 FAVORS FOR GUESTS We had a photo booth so everyone got to take the pictures home in a cute clear package that had our names and wedding date on it tied with a pretty piece of lace. The guests names and table numbers were in cute little gold frames which they also could take home. 

HONEYMOON SPOT Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Ceremony at Terranea Resort, Photo by Studio EMP

The bride and groom! Photo by Studio EMP

Tropical Temptations... The Best Honeymoon Spots in the Caribbean

Looking for your place in the sun? Find it in our guide to some of the top spots for honeymooners. 

By Patricia Canole

JAMAICA

ITINERARY There’s just no better place for a laid-back honeymoon, where you’ll listen to hip-swaying music at every turn, than Jamaica—the birthplace of reggae. Of course, you’ll spend countless hours sunning on a dreamy beach. Good choice. But don’t forget to enjoy the country’s many cultural gifts as well. Jamaican artistry runs wild. Look for creations ranging from large canvases in ritzy Montego Bay galleries to silkscreened T-shirts from funky art studios. BEST FOR Those who love music! Take a Chukka Caribbean Adventure (chukkacaribbean.com) bus tour of St. Ann, where you will see—and hear—everything that is Bob Marley. WHERE TO STAY At Round Hill Hotel and Villas (roundhill.com) you’ll feel more like royalty than a guest. The resort occupies a breathtaking location on a Caribbean-lapped promontory just eight miles west of Montego Bay. Flowers bloom everywhere on the estate, a rainbow palette of hibiscus, bougainvillea and jasmine. Honeymoon in the Pineapple House which overlooks the Caribbean Sea. Rooms feature mahogany furnishings and terra-cotta floors. HONEYMOON HIGHLIGHT Spend an afternoon at the Martha Brae River, where according to legend, an Arawak Indian killed herself before ever revealing the whereabouts of a gold mine to the Spanish. The river now bears her name and is believed that her ghost stands guard at the mine’s entrance. Rafting down the river is a popular—and relaxing—pastime.

GRENADA

ITINERARY Affectionately called the “Spice Island,” Grenada has grown its trademark nutmeg, along with mace and cloves for centuries. The island is home to mountainous rainforests alive with tropical birds, white- and black-sand beaches, and always welcoming people. BEST FOR Newlyweds who love to get their feet wet will enjoy discovering Grenada’s lush jungles, mountain trails, waterfalls and glorious beaches. WHERE TO STAY Spice Island Beach Resort (spiceislandbeachresort.com) sits on Grenada’s sprawling Grand Anse Beach—one of island’s prettiest beaches. Opt for the Cinnamon or Saffron suite which is steps away from the beach. The 1400-square-foot ultra-luxurious hideaway features oversize whirlpool tubs, Frette linens, Molton Brown amenities and hammocks to allow guests to languish in the spice-scented breezes. HONEYMOON HIGHLIGHT Grenada is easy to explore by car. Discover the lush Grand Etang National Park, where you can hike to the waterfalls and jump in for a swim.

RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO

ITINERARY Situated just south of Cancun on one of the Yucatan Coast’s longest stretches of white sand, the wildly romantic setting makes it feel like you’ve arrived at the end of the world. All this plus ancient Mayan ruins to explore make for a perfect honeymoon. BEST FOR Couples who appreciate high-end resorts and the high-stakes adventures of exploring local villages for exotic cultural experiences. WHERE TOSTAY Step into a world of Asia-meets-Mexico splendor at the newly opened Banyan Tree Mayakoba (banyantree.com). From your first glimpse of the banyan tree in the water courtyard to the intimate design of each villa and you’ll be convinced this is heaven. Each villa features overwater or beachside accommodations tucked amidst lagoons, canals and lush mangroves for complete privacy. For sheer dining pleasure, enjoy an in-villa gourmet dining experience. HONEYMOON HIGHLIGHT There’s plenty to do in and around Riviera Maya. Browse the luxury shops of Playa del Carmen or explore the vast Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve with its pristine rainforest and mangrove swamps (one of the last stands of the jaguar in Mexico). Nearby are many of the Mayan world’s best ruins like Tulum—where you can explore together.

ANGUILLA

ITINERARY This island’s trademark is its beautiful beaches: sands that are not only whiter than your bridal gown but also incredibly soft. BEST FOR Food enthusiasts. There are more than 100 places to eat in Anguilla’s 35 square miles. Cuisine ranges from simple roadside bistros serving local fish specialties to romantic seaside restaurants catering to romantic gourmands. WHERE TO STAY With its splashing fountains, original artwork, and tall archways, Malliouhana Hotel & Spa (malliouhana.com) embodies the romance and beauty of the exotic East. Understated island luxe characterizes the décor, with treasures from all over the world beautifully capturing your imagination. You’ll no doubt spend plenty of time on your private terrace, designed for outdoor living and complete privacy. HONEYMOONHIGHLIGHT Water taxi to Scilly Cay for a barbecued lobster curry lunch. Grab a waterside table at the islet’s restaurant, place your order, then snorkel while you await lunch.

ST. LUCIA

ITINERARY Known for its dramatic landmark mountains, The Pitons, the French West Indies island of St. Lucia is also home to abundant rainforests, mountainous terrain and spectacular dive sites. Wherever you go—whether you arrive on foot, bike or horseback—twin Piton Mountains dominate your view, a delightful reminder that the best-loved celebrity on St. Lucia is Mother Nature. BEST FOR Nature lovers. If you enjoy soft adventure excursions, then St. Lucia won’t disappoint. The town of Soufrière has some of the best spots for viewing the coral reefs. WHERE TO STAY Play Tarzan and Jane in this lush jungle setting at Jade Mountain (jademountain.com), where bedroom, living area and extravagant private infinity pool seem to slide into one another. Remarkable views of the Pitons are made even more spectacular thanks to its three-wall setting. There are no phones, radio or TV but who cares? HONEYMOONHIGHLIGHT Try a jungle-biking tour at the Anse Chastanet (ansechastanet.com) resort in Soufrière. Along the way, you’ll pass mango trees as well as an 18th-century sugar mill.

TURKS & CAICOS

ITINERARY Just over an hour’s flight from Miami is a cluster of islands known as Turks & Caicos. Eight major islands and dozens of tiny ones give you that priceless honeymoon commodity: quiet. The long stretch of Grace Bay on the main island, Providenciales (Provo), is abuzz with activity and lots to do. BEST FOR Exploring! It doesn’t get much more romantic than chartering a private yacht to a virtually deserted island for the day. Make a stop at Little Water Cay. Here, there’ll be just a few like-minded day-trippers sharing the sand—oh, yes, and quite a few of the creatures that give the islet its local name: Iguana Island. WHERE TO STAY This posh private-island Parrot Cay (parrotcay.com) resort sits on a thousand-acre paradise northeast of Provo. Beach villas feature plunge pools, airy wooden decks and elegant whitewashed rooms. Enjoy lobster dinners (and other seafood specialties) on the deck of the Terrace restaurant, or grab a sundowner from the bar and stroll down to the talcum-powder-soft beach that stretches more than a mile. HONEYMOON HIGHLIGHT Kayaking to the conch-shell-strewn islands, snaking in and out of mangrove-lined coves along the way (keep your eyes peeled for little nurse sharks and other eye-catching marine 

Explore The Bahamas on your Honeymoon

When you stop to think of The Bahamas, you probably conjure up images of bustling Nassau on New Providence Island, known for their sprawling resorts. But just north and south of these better-known parts, you’ll discover the other Bahamas—Grand Bahama and The Out Islands. Beach lovers are sure to find their ideal wedding destination on one of these sandy-shored islands of The Bahamas. Bustling Grand Bahama offers a laid-back vibe, while some of The Out Islands—The Abacos and Harbour Island to name a few—offer incredible views and silky beaches for a sunset wedding. Here, some stellar spots for tying the knot.

GRAND BAHAMA

WHY HERE? If you’re fantasizing about a wedding locale with white sand, palm trees and crystal-clear waters, look no further than Grand Bahama, just a 40-minute flight from Florida. This beautiful island has lots to offer couples and their guests pre-and-post wedding. For starters, this is snorkeling heaven. Grand Bahama Island is home to the Underwater Explorers Society (UNEXSO), the premier facility for snorkeling in The Bahamas. Another good reason for visiting Grand Bahama: The Dolphin Experience offers a rare opportunity to go eye-to-eye with these creatures in their natural environment.
TIE THE KNOT The Westin Grand Bahama Island Our Lucaya Resort (starwoodhotels.com) takes care of everything, using high-tech tools to help your wedding plans go smoothly (they’ll even create a personalized Web page where guests can RSVP and book rooms at the hotel). As a result, once you’re at the resort, all you have to do is relax by the pool. Ceremonies can take place on the sand, in a garden or in the resort’s gazebo, surrounded by palm trees. Receptions vary, from a feast on the beach with a bonfire and a buffet to a traditional dinner in one of the resort’s restaurants. Want to really impress your guests? Request that Junkanoo dancers in traditional Bahamian costumes entertain them….The most exclusive hotel on Grand Bahama, British-colonial-style Old Bahama Bay (oldbahamabay.com), is on the island’s western tip. The secluded location has expansive grounds, and the flawless beach is the perfect place to exchange your vows, under the shade of a coconut tree. After the ceremony, you and up to 80 guests can dine on filet mignon and lobster at Aqua, the resort’s restaurant.

THE ABACOS

WHY HERE? Northernmost in The Bahamas, Abaco and its offshore cays offer a rewarding diversity of 18th-century villages, superb sailing, and fine food. Many of the locals on the two main islands (Great Abaco and Little Abaco) are descendants of the British Loyalists who originally settled in the area after the Revolutionary War, building New England-style clapboard houses to remind them of home. Hope Town, on Elbow Cay to the east of Abaco, is the perfect example of a 200-year-old town; separated by neat picket fences and stone walls, the pastel clapboard houses overflow with vines of bougainvillea.
TIE THE KNOT The 87 spacious rooms at Treasure Cay Hotel Resort & Marina (treasurecay.com) on Great Abaco are decorated in festive island prints. True the marina is filled with million-dollar yachts, but what earns this resort its rating as a romantic destination wedding setting is the four-mile long beach, where the sand is so soft it makes confectioner’s sugar feel gritty. This is definitely the place to say “I do” at sunset. Dance and celebrate with friends and family under the stars at a beachside barbecue.…Green Turtle Club Resort and Marina (greenturtleclub.com) on Green Turtle Cay lies just a mere 160 miles east of Florida and is easily reached by air via Nassau into Treasure Cay airport on Abaco. From there, it’s a short ferry ride to the resort to settle into some serious “island time.” The beautiful resort offers couples a casual refinement with cheerful yellow cottages scattered up a hillside amid lush foliage. Weddings can be performed on the beach at sunset or by the harbor’s edge. After saying “I do,” celebrate your joy at a Bahamian-style seafood buffet in the patio dining room or, if you prefer, a more formal sit-down gourmet feast at the resort’s candlelit dining room….Bluff House Beach Hotel & Yacht Club (bluffhouse.com) offers couples the utmost in romance. Split-level suites have tropical-inspired themes, wicker furniture, and double doors opening onto balconies with breathtaking ocean views. Couples can opt for a charming island wedding on the beach, on a yacht by the marina, or on a cliff overlooking the ocean at sunset. The resort’s staff will customize to your liking.

HARBOUR ISLAND

WHY HERE? One of the best-kept secrets, this three-mile-long speck sits off the coast of North Eleuthera. So tiny, the island looks a bit like someone shrank Nantucket, plopped it down in the tropics, and added a three-mile ribbon of pink sand. Aptly named Pink Sands, this magnificent beach is a perfect blush color that would be right at home on a flamingo’s back. At first glance, Harbour Island appears to be stuck in a time warp, with 18-century clapboard houses—and you wouldn’t want it any other way. Cars are all but forbidden (instead, golf carts zip you around), and nothing is more than a short stroll from the beach.
TIE THE KNOT Pink Sands (islandoutpost.com) is an intimate resort of handsome cottages over 16 acres and 800 feet of beachfront. There are many options to say your “I do’s” including the most popular sunset ceremony followed with a Bahamian reception on the beach. The Wedding Package includes a marriage license, registrar’s fees, wedding officiant, bridal bouquet, a bottle of Champagne, wedding cake and photographer (couple will receive a CD with approximately 250 images). Pink Sands has several sites suitable for marriage ceremonies and receptions for small to large wedding parties. Later, retire to your “cottage” as Mr. & Mrs.—which are actually spacious suites adorned with hand-carved furniture, African prints, and Italian tiles. Baths are spacious and mini-bars are well stocked (with rum, of course).

Basics for Creating Your Wedding Registry

Here, The Basics On Making Your Wish List.

Somehow, before you got engaged, you managed to eat meals using whatever dinnerware you had—whether it matched or not. Now, it’s time for an upgrade—to register for china, crystal, flatware and all the beautiful items you will need. But discovering just how much is needed can be mind-boggling. Relax. We’re here to give you a leg up on your registry.

TABLEWARE

Depending on your preference, you should register for 8 to 12 five-piece place settings of your chosen china pattern. Each place setting includes a dinner plate, salad/dessert plate, bread-and-butter plate, cup and saucer.

Additional pieces you’ll want to order include two medium-size platters, assorted vegetable bowls, a gravy boat, a sugar bowl and creamer, and salt and pepper shakers.

If you’re thinking of registering for chargers or buffet plates, be sure your shelves are deep enough to accommodate them.

Even if you don’t have a lot of cabinet space, it’s still a good idea to register for tableware—just limit the number of place settings. You can add to your collection later. But do it now so you will have what you need to begin your lives together.

GLASSWARE

Register for more crystal stemware than your dinnerware, since you will use them more often.

Frequently used glassware include goblets, iced beverage glasses, double old-fashioned tumblers, Champagne flutes and all-purpose wine glasses.

FLATWARE

Register for the same quantity of place settings as your dinnerware. Each setting includes a salad/dessert fork, dinner fork, soup spoon, tea/dessert spoon and dinner knife.

You can choose from sterling silver or stainless steel. Ideally, register for two sets: formal and casual. When deciding, consider how the pieces feel in your hand and the care requirements.

Additional pieces of flatware to register for include a serving set, and several extra teaspoons and salad forks.

BEYOND THE BASICS

Electronics Got a yen for plasma TVs? Or, perhaps you need an extra computer, iPod, or phone.

Sports Tents, tennis gear, an at-home gym—why not start your marriage out on an active note?

Giftware From a classic crystal vase to sleek Swedish candlesticks, you can let guests accessorize every last corner of your new home.

Don't Forget There's even more! Linens for bed and bath, cookware, iron, smoke alarms, shower massager and a vacuum, too.

LUCKY 7

Keep in mind from Waterford Wedgwood Royal Doulton spokesman, Jorge Perez:

1. Register at no more than three establishments. More only causes confusion and is hard to manage.

2. Invite your groom to join you in the registry process. Give him a category that he might be interested in, like barware.

3. Register for enough gifts at various price points. This way everyone on your invited list will have a variety of gifts and price points to choose from.

4. Take advantage of the great convenience of on-line registry services. Check it often to make changes and additions.

5. Listen to your mother (at least a little bit!). Remember, she’s been through this and can offer some great advice.

6. After your wedding date, take advantage of all registry completion offers.

7. Register for brands that stand for quality and enduring style, like Waterford, a company noted for never discontinuing a stemware pattern.

 

Destination Weddings in the USA

Want a destination wedding but don't want to travel too far? Here are some beautiful locations for tying the knot away from home.

ARIZONA

WHAT’S TO LOVE A sunny Arizona steals the hearts of many engaged couples searching for a dreamy place to say “I do.” Some couples find a desert sunset especially dreamy, while incurable romantics are seduced by Southwestern ambiance. Phoenix and Scottsdale boast some of the best resorts on earth, which have been the sites for many legendary Hollywood weddings.
WHAT’S WEDDING WORTHY The newest luxury resort in Paradise Valley is the InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa (icmontelucia.com) featuring Old World charm and Spanish architecture, locally grown, globally inspired cuisine and a variety of elegant wedding venues. Castillo Lucena at Montelucia welcomes weddings with architecturally stunning details such as cathedral ceilings accented with exposed wood beams and hand-laid parquet floors. Bridal parties in Castillo Lucena are also provided access to Isabella’s Parlour, a private bridal suite complete with a flat screen television that broadcasts a live feed of the wedding venue as guests enter the room allowing the bride to can take in the moment while preparing to walk down the aisle. The resort offers a more intimate and secluded multi-purpose wedding venue, Camelback Villa and Wedding Suite and Lawn, including 2,800 square feet of living space and two private poolside cabanas. The two-bedroom villa is an idyllic locale to prepare for the big day with privacy and convenience, all within an enclosed, exclusive area of the resort. There is also an expansive Great Room designed for family and guests to congregate and celebrate after the event. Or opt for the 2,000 square feet of manicured lawn for the reception and has a breathtaking unobstructed view of Camelback Mountain….The legendary Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired Arizona Biltmore (arizonabiltmore.com), set on 39 beautifully manicured acres, has long been a top choice for weddings. And it’s easy to see why this is one of the Southwest’s most popular places to say “I do.” Venues range from the Grand Ballroom, to sublime outdoor sites and historic rooms that are architectural masterpieces such as the Aztec Room. Gorgeous outdoor venues include Squaw Peak Terrace, the Cottage Court and Paradise Garden. Every wedding is completely customized and the resort’s highly experienced wedding planning staff works closely with the bride and groom to personalize every detail of the event. Couples also have the newest option: Ocatilla at Arizona Biltmore, an exclusive 120-room wing offering luxurious club accommodations and the resort’s most enhanced guest services—a boutique hotel within the resort featuring club accommodations, a private pool and special complimentary amenities.
SPECIAL TOUCHES Baseball fans have a field day when spring training takes over the Greater Phoenix area, with numerous locations to take in a major league game. And, no visit to the area would be complete without a trip into the Sonoran desert. For a wonderful afternoon, contact Old West Trails Tours (jeepingarizona.com) and ask for Lenny Dee—the best guide around. —Clint Brownfield

FLORIDA

WHAT’S TO LOVE Orlando is the epicenter of fun and excitement with family-oriented Walt Disney World (waltdisneyworld.com), being its top draw for visitors. About the size of San Francisco, Walt Disney World Resorts boasts more than 20 hotels to meet every couples budget and style. From the wildlife driven Animal Kingdom Resort to the Martha’s Vineyard themed Yacht Club, there’s something for everyone.
WHAT’S WEDDING WORTHY There’s a reason why more than 30,000 couples have had their dream wedding at the place that’s known for bringing fantasy alive. Luxurious and exotic, the Disney wedding team will assist in planning your wedding and reception with ease. From the affordable Escape Collection for couples who prefer small and intimate (and want the option of adding on a honeymoon) to the more grand Couture Wedding Collection by David Tutera, any Disney Wedding will be high on style and low on stress. Consider the Wishes Collection if your vision has already been mapped out. Among the amenities, are great spas and restaurants. Pamper yourself and wedding party with a Citrus Zest Sugar Scrub at the Grand Floridian Spa & Health Club while the groom enjoys a relaxing round of golf as you anticipate what will surely be a magical day. Also, there are numerous ways to make your grand entrance. Arrive at the ceremony in a horse-drawn Landau coach or classic vintage Ford. A ceremony at the Wedding Pavillion means a view of Cinderella’s Castle as you walk down the aisle.
SPECIAL TOUCHES Whether you want Swarovski crystals incorporated on your cake or a three layer confection of lemon, red velvet and chocolate, the pastry kitchen will create a design to your heart’s desire. Disney brides have been known to shed tears of happiness at the sight of their final product. —Baria Bailey

CALIFORNIA

WHAT’S TO LOVE Palm Springs’ majestic outdoors and sophisticated desert lifestyle blend seamlessly into one another so well, the whole resort town feels likes its been designed from scratch. Nestled under 10,000-foot snow-capped peaks, this fabled hideaway of Hollywood stars retains its grandeur with millions of dollars worth of recent renovations to its legendary hotels, as well as ongoing preservation of its ‘50s mid-century modern architecture. With nearby draws like the nearly 800,000-acre Joshua Tree National Park, you couldn’t ask for a more perfectly mystical yet refined spot to spend your honeymoon.
WHAT’S WEDDING WORTHY The 406-room Riviera Resort & Spa (psriviera.com) is famous as the hangout of Sinatra and the Rat Pack in the ‘50s and ‘60s. At one time its cabaret hosted performances by Elvis and Bob Hope, and the whole place was fashioned after major Vegas hotels of the era. In October of 2008, the Riviera reopened with a stellar $70 million renovation that reinstated a lot of the vintage colors, wallpaper, and moldings of the original hotel, wrapped in a swanky 21st Century neo-retro vibe. There are glittering mosaics of ‘60s celebrities made out of Guatemalan pennies, a lobby bar with a 30-foot video wall, and an 18-room, 11,000-square-foot Asian-inspired indoor spa with Watsu pool treatments. Moreover, the property hosts over 10,000 square feet of outdoor lawn space with dramatic mountain backdrops, making for the perfect wedding setting. A magical oval-shaped 19,670-square-foot Grand Ballroom, decked out with sparkling crystal chandeliers, creates the perfectly elegant fairytale-like reception you'll always remember.
SPECIAL TOUCHES On the blocks between the Riviera and downtown Palm Springs lies the burgeoning uptown design district, which celebrates the town’s mid-century modernist roots with hip and eclectic boutiques and galleries. You can spend days in the design shops which sell everything from minimalist leather couches and shag rugs to vintage light fixtures and consignment clothing. —Matthew Link

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Facts on Facials for Brides-to-be

A primer on the most effective skin solutions—whether you want to fade sun spots or just crave a little R&R. By Patricia Canole


 Countdown to your wedding day: It's a month away and you want picture-perfect, glowing skin. Possible? Yes, indeed, with a facial. When it comes to facials most women think of cleansing and massage. Today, facials are not just about relaxation but about visible results. And with a battery of options—like peels to smooth out scars or fillers to plump up fine lines—it's crucial to choose the right one for your complexion.

LOCATION, LOCATION

Are you looking for the professional attention of a doctor or hours of pampering at a spa—or something in between?

Doctor's Office: For a woman who wants a medical professional to look at her skin and expects no-nonsense results. A dermatologist won't mistake a small mole for a blackhead and is less likely to scar skin during procedures.

Medi-Spa: This experience blends doctor consultation services with traditional spa comforts. Increasingly popular, these centers use aestheticians to give treatments, but a doctor is usually on staff to supervise chemical peels and other procedures.

Traditional Day Spa: The ultimate in pampering. Day spas are still the most popular places to go for facial appointments; their treatments, ranging from aromatherapy to mild collagen stimulation, are big on extras but offer more modest results.

POPULAR FACIALS

Oxygen: A cool mist of pure oxygen is sprayed on the entire face, with extra focus given to parched fine lines and wrinkles. The oxygen hydrates the skin making it look temporarily more dewy. It's particularly recommended for anyone with dry skin, smokers, or frequent fliers. Fans of the treatment say oxygen blasts give them a rosy glow. And many contain a cocktail of vitamins and nutrients that can temporarily plump up fine lines.

Steam/Extraction: A soothing, hydrating mask is usually applied to the face, then warm water (sometimes infused with essential oils) is misted over the mask. The mask shields the face from moist heat. Steam opens the pores and loosens dirt trapped inside. That makes the extractions that follow easier to bear and helps oil-absorbing masks penetrate the skin deeply. After the steaming, skin softens and is more elastic.

Chemical Peel: Pads soaked in acid (typically glycolic, lactic or salicylic) are wiped on the face to exfoliate dull, dead cells from the surface of your skin. Glycolics can stimulate collagen production to smooth fine lines; lactic acids can correct hyperpigmentation (brown spots); and salicylic acids prevent breakouts by cleaning out pores. Peels leave your face smooth and glowing.

Microdermabrasion: Skin is sprayed with small crystal particles that mechanically polish the top layer (like a sandblaster), while a gentle vacuum sucks away dead cells and debris. Pores appear smaller, freckles look lighter, and fine lines are less noticeable. The procedure is more intense than a scrub because it gets into every pore.

Writing Thank You Notes in No Time!

There’s no doubt you are thankful for all of the wonderful gifts you and your husband have received. However, you probably are not thrilled at the idea of writing all of those necessary (they are!) thank-you notes. To keep your mind focused and your pen moving, here are some tips that will get those notes written while keeping your stress level down.

UPON ARRIVAL

When gifts start to arrive make sure you record a description of the present, the gift giver’s name and address as well as the date your present was received. This will help to avoid any confusion about who sent what. If a note arrived with the gift keep those too; it may help you to recall the intended meaning of the present which you can reflect on later in your thank-you note.

TIMING IS EVERYTHING

Set aside a specific time for writing thank-you notes. By doing so, you won’t be tempted to push it aside because you have “better” things to do. An excellent suggestion is to have a box filled with necessary supplies—cards, envelopes, black pen, and stamps—readily available which will keep your mind focused on the task. For a shower or engagement party send thank-you notes within ten days. Early wedding gifts should be acknowledged immediately, and gifts given at the wedding should be acknowledged soon after the honeymoon.

Subsequently, with all the events surrounding a wedding—engagement party, bridal showers, as well as wedding—you probably have received multiple gifts from the same person. So, be sure to send a separate thank-you note for each gift to that person. Don’t forget those who hosted showers and parties in your honor. If you had a family member make a toast, serve as an attendant, or travel a long distance, a kind thank you will always be appreciated.

YOUR STATIONERY

When writing thank-you notes for engagement and shower gifts, less formal note cards may be used. However, wedding note cards require more formal stationery in either white or ivory. If you choose note cards embossed with your name or initials, use your maiden name on any pre-wedding thank-you notes. Stationery that includes your married name, should not be used until after the wedding. 

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