We’re kicking off our Weddings Done Well series with what’s arguably one of the most exciting parts of planning nuptials - the trips! We’ve rounded up our top picks for bachelor and bachelorette parties, a destination wedding and what’s sure to be a well-deserved honeymoon - because even though you may spend countless hours crossing to-dos off your list, there is fun to be had.
BACHELORETTE PARTY : Seattle, WA
The Space Needle Observation tower lights up the night in the Seattle skyline.
Seattle gets a gloomy reputation for its wet weather (rainy season peaks between October - April), but the comfortable daytime temperatures and mild summer evenings make it a great place to explore with the girls during the drier months. Visit a winery within city limits or just 20 miles northeast in Woodinville, where the largest concentration of them can be found. Follow it up with a tasting tour of locally brewed coffees or a visit to the Starbucks Reserve Roastery and Tasting Room. For a little history, check out Pike’s Place, the country’s oldest indoor market, the Experience Music Project Museum, which is dedicated to pop culture, or the famed Space Needle. For a more outdoorsy group, visit the beaches along Lake Washington, take a hike in a local park, grab tickets for a whale watching excursion or relax in Olympic Sculpture Park.
Pick up an Alexander McQueen scarf for the cool Seattle nights. Easy to pack or perfect to wear on the plane, $385.
BACHELOR PARTY : Denver, CO
The Denver skyline in front of the Rocky Mountains.
Home to Super Bowl 50 champions, the Denver Broncos, the mile high city also boasts an additional 6 professional sports teams - so no matter the season, you and the boys can watch some of the best players in action on the court, field or rink. Coors and a smattering of local and large scale brewers call Denver and the surrounding cities home, so visit during the fall for The Great American Beer Festival or throughout the year to tour and taste straight from the producers. For the foodies in your group, check out The Source, an artisan food market. For a little outdoor fun, kayak in a local park or take a short trip outside of city limits for white water rafting, skiing or hiking.
Up your carry on game with an upgraded backpack. Trimmed in leather with a compartment big enough for shoes, it’s both stylish and practical. Ermenegildo Zegna, $650.
DESTINATION WEDDING : San Diego, CA
The San Ysidro Mountains just east of downtown San Diego in the Anza-Borrego State Park Desert.
Mild, sunny days, low annual precipitation and the mountainous and beach landscapes make San Diego an ideal place for an outdoor, destination wedding. More affordable than its Los Angeles neighbor, guests can keep themselves entertained with family friendly local activities including the museums in Old Town, special experiences like breakfast with Koalas at the 100 acre San Diego Zoo or dining and shopping along the Seaport Village Waterfront.
Soak up the sun without a worry. La Roche-Posay Anthelio Clear Skin SPF is light and water resistant - perfect for you and your guests when braving the southern California Sun. La Roche-Posay SPF 60, available at Blue Mercury, $20.
HONEYMOON : Iceland
One of the many waterfalls in south Iceland.
For a truly one of a kind trip, consider Iceland. Make the most of your time by taking advantage of the long periods of summer sunlight. Attending music, art and food festivals, horseback riding, hiking in the diverse terrain, whale watching and bathing on black sand beaches or inside the hot springs and geothermal spas are just a few ways to explore this unique destination. Year round, adventurous travelers can visit the many parks, waterfalls and geysers.
If the low winter temps don’t scare you off, opt for December - February when seeing the Northern Lights is almost guaranteed. You can also enjoy skiing, glacier climbing and snowshoeing. If you find yourself in need of a nature break, check out Reykjavik, the country’s capital which boasts a vibrant nightlife scene and museums.
His and her sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection will come in handy during the consistent daylight from mid-May to mid-August. Sheldrake Plus and Benedict by Oliver Peoples, available at Peepers, $335 - $450.
Travel Tips:
- Plan Ahead: Give ample notice to all prospective attendees. For weddings specifically, etiquette maven Emily Posts recommends save the dates should be sent immediately after confirming a venue and invitations 2-3 months out from the big day.
- Designate Responsibilities: Lean on your most organized friend to lead the charge for bachelor and bachelorette hotels, activities and bookings - you’ve got a wedding to plan! For a destination wedding, lean on the venue concierge or a wedding planner with local experience to get things done smoothly. For the honeymoon, share the weight with your partner and make sure you’re on the same page regarding your activity to relaxing ratio for a truly blissful trip.
- Don’t Stress: Relax and enjoy! If you’re taking the time to travel, make sure to soak up your surroundings and relish in your company; and remember - even Prince William and Kate Middleton delayed their honeymoon ensuring it happened at a time that was best for them.