Pictured: The Ocean House offers indoor as well as outdoor spaces, depending on the couples’ preferences and the time of year.
While destination weddings on a remote island or in an exotic foreign location seem to be de rigueur these days, there is something soothingly simple about staying stateside. For those looking to celebrate their nuptials closer to home, Luxury Travel Advisor has singled out three distinctly different, yet equally impressive, properties that will have your clients saying, “I do.”
Ocean House
Although it is the smallest state in the U.S., Rhode Island delivers big when it comes to romance. Topping the list is the Ocean House, which is located in Watch Hill, just 45 minutes from historic Newport. This seaside resort offers an on-site wedding professional to help plan everything from the schedule of events to the menu design. With breathtaking views of the ocean, the Ocean House offers both indoor and outdoor spaces, depending on the couples’ preference. To prepare for the big day, the bride can even rent out the entire 12,00-square-foot OH! Spa and the salon, as well. Customized bridal packages for the bride, groom, and bridal parties are also available.
After the party, the bride and groom can retreat to the Atlantic Suite to begin their honeymoon. With two private patios overlooking the ocean and a fireplace in the living room, there is plenty of romance to be had, no matter what season.
For guests who plan to stay at the resort, there are 15 Signature Suites, as well as the Cottage Collection, which ranges from two-bedroom cottages to six-bedroom homes, for those looking for the privacy of a personal residence.
For those with little ones, the Ocean House offers on-site babysitting services, as well as a variety of children’s programs. The resort has also formed a partnership with the YMCA to create weekly activities for children, such as scavenger hunts, hikes, team-building games, and culinary education.
Advisors should contact Jane Galosic, director of leisure sales ([email protected]).
Hawks Cay Resort
For couples looking for a family-friendly destination that is easily accessible yet still off the beaten path, Hawks Cay Resort offers the best of all worlds. Located in Duck Key, FL, a midpoint Florida Keys destination located less than 90 minutes from Miami, this venue gives soon-to-be brides and grooms a casual, carefree environment to exchange their vows. Couples can choose from multiple wedding venues on the property, including a sunset beach ceremony, a sunset lawn ceremony, a gazebo lawn ceremony, a lagoon deck ceremony, and more.
Pictured: Hawks Cay Resort offers family-friendly experiences that are off the beaten path, but still easily accessible.
After tying the knot, couples can relax and unwind in either an Island and Water View Penthouse, which boasts amazing views, a large rooftop deck, and a large living area, or an Island and Water View Presidential Suite, which offers a claw foot tub, a private massage table, and a spacious balcony. For wedding guests, there are premium Lanai King Rooms with a walk out deck and poolside service and Premium Junior Suites with a spacious living area that is great for those with children.
Advisors should contact Anna Walston, wedding coordinator ([email protected]).
Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage
Pictured: The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage is situated on a cliff that has dramatic views overlooking Palm Springs Valley.
On the radar for an ideal wedding and honeymoon destination is the highly anticipated opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage. Located less than two hours from Los Angeles and San Diego, this scenic haven, slated to open in mid-May, is already preparing to become a sought-after wedding location. Couples who are looking for an intimate experience will have the option of holding a cliff-side ceremony at the dramatic Vista Point on the edge of a bluff overlooking Palm Springs Valley. Those looking for a larger celebration will have the option of two ballrooms, as well as multiple indoor and outdoor venues, including two event lawns with amazing views. Another highlight at the property will be a unique wedding cake program, where bride and groom can choose from a menu of romance-inspired culinary creations.
Newlyweds can end the night in the 1,300-square-foot Ritz-Carlton Suite, which boasts both mountain and valley views. The one-bedroom, one-half bath suite will offer a spacious living room, separate dining room with seating for six, a pantry for private service entrance, and Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge privileges.
Advisors should contact Donald Maselli, director of catering, sales, and conferences services ([email protected]).