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Belmond reopens their Italian hotels in a truly Nostalgic Fashion

Belmond reopens their Italian hotels in a truly Nostalgic Fashion

Following Italy’s challenges with Covid-19, Belmond has announced the reopening of their 6 properties from Venice to Portofino with a short film by director Francesco Carrozzini. The film, which is romantic, nostalgic, and entirely captivating, enlivens our senses and makes us dream of our next escape to Italy. The film commissioned by Belmond is appropriately titled ‘My Love Letter to Italy’. In a press release, parent organization LVMH states “[Carrozzini] presents a passionate and personal account of his native land,…

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Real Estate

Apartment 3304 | A World Class Residence at The Pierre

Apartment 3304 | A World Class Residence at The Pierre

Manhattan’s legendary “The Pierre” now has room with a view, ready and waiting for its next lucky resident. Built in 1930, The Schultze and Weaver designed Pierre is one of New York City’s defining Art Deco masterpieces along with the famed Waldorf Astoria and the Park Lane Hotel. The Pierre was transformed from solely hotel use into a mixed use co-op and hotel in 1959, which brings us to the subject of Apartment 3304. The 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath co-op…

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Art & Culture Travel

Enjoy Paris’ Best Shopping from The Hôtel Mansart

Hotel Mansart - View of Place Vendome - by @gillestrillard

Situated just around the corner from Place Vendôme, the Hôtel Mansart is where one can truly begin an all-out shopping spree. Located nearby some of the most prestigious boutiques in Paris, the hotel is within walking distance from Charvet, Bulgari, Cartier, Chanel and Gucci, to name just a few. Art is another prominent aspect of the area around Hôtel Mansart as the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, the Musée des Arts et Métiers, the Musée d’Orsay, the Louvre Museum and the…

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Real Estate

Mojo Stumer’s Latest Project | 700 Park Avenue

Mojo Stumer's Latest Project | 700 Park Avenue

A two bedroom apartment along New York’s coveted upper east side is the latest work of Mojo Stumer Associates. The firm, which is well known for their modern yet warm interior design work, brought to life 2,300 square feet of living space at 700 Park Avenue. The team at Mojo Stumer was hired by a Manhattan couple, who were looking to downsize from a larger residence. The end result of their collaboration was the complete transformation of this residence into…

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Yachts

262 Foot M/Y EXCELLENCE Available for Charter in the Mediterranean for the First Time

At 262 Feet (80 Meters), The Abeking & Rasmussen built Excellence which stands out in a crowd of even the most impressive charter yachts. With a modern exterior conceived by Andrew Winch, Excellence is sleek and imposing. Having just enjoyed an inaugural cruising season in the Caribbean, Excellence has now been made available by Burgess Yachts for summer charter bookings in the Mediterranean for the first time ever. At just over 2,100 gross tons, Excellence offers charter accommodations for up…

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Epicure

Despite Covid-19 This Parisian Luxury Food Market is Staying Open to Help Those in Need

La Grande Epicerie de Paris

LVMH’s world renowned La Grande Epicerie de Paris is widely regarded as one of Paris’ finest luxury food markets. However, as most Parisian staples close down during France’s lock-down, this particular store proves to be a bit of an enigma. In an effort to meet the needs of customers and support the store’s suppliers, La Grande Epicierie has remained open thanks in most part “to the engagement and professionalism of the store’s employees” claimed parent organization LVMH. Founded in 1923,…

Continue Reading

Auto

Top Luxury Cars to Drive in 2020

Mercedes Benz S Class Coupe

When it comes to high-end middle range luxury cars, there is quite an extensive list for automobile enthusiasts to choose from. These cars have everything from advanced technological features and precision engineering to luxury interiors and stunning bodywork. When you drive a luxury car in 2020, you can look forward to an experience like no other. Although there are many exotics choices in the sub $100,000 USD range, such as models from automobile giants like Ferrari or Rolls Royce, you…

Continue Reading

Lifestyle

Intimate Yet Extravagant Wedding Ideas for 2020

Intimate Yet Extravagant Wedding Ideas for 2020

Weddings are personal, that’s why there’s neither a formula for a perfect wedding nor a wedding that fits all. There will always be something different at every wedding, be it the flowers, styling, catering, dress or venue. On top of that, wedding trends change frequently along with changes in people’s tastes and wishes on how they’ll be spending their wedding budget. Here are some of the simple, yet elegant wedding ideas that soon-to-be-wedded couples can take inspiration from. Intimate and…

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Yachts

What to Look for in a Luxury Private Mooring Service

What to Look for in a Luxury Private Mooring Service

For people who are new to sailing, there’s a lot to learn. For example, when you sail into new waters on a luxury yacht, you cannot dock anywhere you like — especially in big cities like Seattle. Unlike a sports car that you can park almost anywhere, finding a suitable marina to fit your yacht isn’t as easy as finding a car park. Theoretically, boats are allowed to moor along towpaths, but it depends on the size of the ship.…

Continue Reading

Auto

2020 Luxury Electric Cars: Reduce Your Carbon Footprint In Style

2020 Luxury Electric Cars: Reduce Your Carbon Footprint In Style - Blue BMW

It has become clear during this new decade that protecting the environment is a responsibility that is shared by everyone. As the push towards reducing our need to consume fossil fuels expands, the rise of many alternative sources of energy has taken over many parts of the economy. Innovative companies like Tesla have been on the frontier of hybrid and electrically powered vehicles for over a decade. Although the aim is to create affordable electric vehicles for the common man,…

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Belmond reopens their Italian hotels in a truly Nostalgic Fashion

Following Italy’s challenges with Covid-19, Belmond has announced the reopening of their 6 properties from Venice to Portofino with a short film by director Francesco Carrozzini. The film, which is romantic, nostalgic, and entirely captivating, enlivens our senses and makes us dream of our next escape to Italy.

The film commissioned by Belmond is appropriately titled ‘My Love Letter to Italy’. In a press release, parent organization LVMH states “[Carrozzini] presents a passionate and personal account of his native land, showcasing its splendor and people.” To commemorate the reopening after months of closure, Belmond felt Carrozzini was a perfect choice to write, direct, and nararate a story that epitomizes Italy’s charms. The director’s career includes works such as, music videos for Jay-Z and Beyoncé.

The captivating film, which can be viewed below, is a perfect picture of the best of the Italian peninsula. Carrozzini’s love for his home country comes to life in 92 seconds of nostalgia and splendor. From cuisine to views, hospitality to generosity, sea to hills, the director captures the beauty of Italy’s landscape and the warm hearts of its people in a film that feels more like a memory.

The Italian director lovingly captures those simple moments of day-to-day life he misses most whenever he’s away from Italy for too long.

Featured image credit: © Belmond provided courtesy of LVMH

Apartment 3304 | A World Class Residence at The Pierre

Manhattan’s legendary “The Pierre” now has room with a view, ready and waiting for its next lucky resident. Built in 1930, The Schultze and Weaver designed Pierre is one of New York City’s defining Art Deco masterpieces along with the famed Waldorf Astoria and the Park Lane Hotel.

The Pierre was transformed from solely hotel use into a mixed use co-op and hotel in 1959, which brings us to the subject of Apartment 3304. The 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath co-op that recently hit the market at $14.95 million USD is owned by philanthropist and former chairman/CEO of First Data, Corp Ric Duques and his wife Dawn. The Duques transformed their 3,000 square-foot residence during a recent renovation in which the couple expanded the kitchen, refinished floors, and enlarged closets. Particular highlights of the Fifth Avenue facing home include direct views of Central Park, a corner master suite, formal dinning room, and two guest bedrooms currently configured as a library and reception room.

With discreet access via a semi-private elevator landing, guests enter Apartment 3304 through a “a gracious vestibule that opens to a marble gallery and corner living room with oversized windows.” In addition to the residence’s unobstructed Central Park vistas, the Hudson River, George Washington Bridge and Midtown Manhattan are all within sight.

Boasting the most spectacular of 5 star hotel services, residents of the Pierre enjoy “full access to all hotel services, including 24-hour concierge, twice-daily maid service, spa and fitness center, conference room, business center and beauty salon.” Room service is also available from the hotel’s dinning facilities, which include Perrine, a new French/American restaurant, along with Two E Bar/Lounge and the famed Rotunda.

Chris Fry and Shea Mena of Elegran hold the listing.

For more information please visit: Apartment 3304 

Image credit: Elegran, provided courtesy of Quinn PR

Enjoy Paris’ Best Shopping from The Hôtel Mansart

Situated just around the corner from Place Vendôme, the Hôtel Mansart is where one can truly begin an all-out shopping spree. Located nearby some of the most prestigious boutiques in Paris, the hotel is within walking distance from Charvet, Bulgari, Cartier, Chanel and Gucci, to name just a few. Art is another prominent aspect of the area around Hôtel Mansart as the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, the Musée des Arts et Métiers, the Musée d’Orsay, the Louvre Museum and the Rodin Museum can be found in the vicinity. Sitting in the middle of the arts and business district, the Hôtel Mansart is a wonderful choice to stay for those looking to explore the wonders of the City of Paris.

The building which the Hôtel Mansart now occupies was originally built in 1720 by John Law, who was known for inventing the Assignats currency. Famed French Architect Jules-Hardouin Mansart, who was the chief architect of Louis XIV, designed the building. Many of Mr. Mansart’s works are still appreciated today, including his work at the Château de Versailles and the admirable Dôme des Invalides. Furthermore, the Jeweller to the Crown, Alexandre-Gabriel Lemonnier moved in during the Second Empire where he he had a hand in turning Place Vendôme into a district for jewellers. One of the most notable works of Alexandre-Gabriel Lemonnier is Empress Eugénie’s crown, a beautiful piece that is currently on display at the Louvre Museum.

In the later half of the 19th Century, the building transitioned into the hotel it is today. The Hôtel Mansart, now in the possession of Esprit De France, upholds the history of the building by not only naming it after its creator, but also by adding touches throughout that are reminiscent of its former brilliance. The Hôtel Mansart has influences ranging from the 17th century to the 19th century. People say that the jewels in the building during Alexandre-Gabriel Lemonnier’s stay there were secretly stored at the back of the indoor shutters, which remain safeguarded to this day in the hotel suites.

Hotel Mansart -Lounge - by @gillestrillard

The interior design language of the hotel honours the historical time periods the building has gone through. In conjunction with the stunning interior of the hotel, the vicinity around the building is a haven for shopping, eating and browsing art museums. However, the hotel itself is also has an extensive art collection of approximately 120 pieces. Displayed throughout rooms and various open areas, the art spans many different periods and in the form of paintings, engravings, sculptures and furniture. Even while in the comfort of your own room, guests can revel in the artistry of breathtaking period pieces.

Significant works of art include the Portrait of Eugénie de Montijo and the Portrait of Napoleon III, which are oil paintings done on identical canvases and hold historic meaning to the hotel. Both of these beautiful paintings are exhibited in the same room where the jeweler who made their jewels at the culmination of the 18th century was received.

Additional standout pieces include “Alpheus Pursuing Arethusa“, “Narcissus Reflected in a Fountain” and “The Chariot of Bacchus” that make up mythological scenes which are placed near everyday scenes like “Softly Sleeping“, “The Good Mother“, “The Kiss”  and “Trying on a Corset” in a harmonious setting.

Hotel Mansart - Lounge - by @gillestrillard

The hotel’s large collection of art spans ceaselessly throughout, as beautiful pieces of art greet you at even the simplest of times. Located amidst a flight of stairs in the hall is a piece named “Spirit of France” that was sculptured by Georges Jeanclos. The artist, who is highly regarded as one of the best sculptors at the end of the 20th century, had created this sculpture expressly for Hôtel Mansart. Within the breakfast room is a unique work, a ‘discrete portrait of Mansart’ (pictured above) that signifies the deep connection between the building of the past to the hotel of today.

When staying at the Hôtel Mansart the morning must always begin with an ambrosial breakfast to inspirit yourself for an exciting day of wandering the city’s beloved attractions. After entering the breakfast room, you are welcomed by period stained-glass windows, which only provides to highlight the hot and cold buffet tables in the centre of the room.

Hotel Mansart - The Breakfast Room - by @gillestrillard

High quality French produce and other ingredients grown in organic farms make up the menu. This list includes freshly squeezed fruit juice, Alain Milliat jam, pastries from the Pâtisserie des RêvesEchiré butter and a plate of mature cheeses. The scrumptious breakfast is served along Bernardaud porcelaine in the Esprit de France colours.

When it comes time to return from a fun time of shopping or taking in the local colour, the Hôtel Mansart’s open access bar is an ideal place to stop by. Situated on the first floor, the bar offers guests an enticing list of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Guests can enjoy a drink while relaxing at a quiet lounge; a great relief for guests who spent their day shopping or visiting some of the prominent art museums.

Hotel Mansart - Room Vendome - by @gillestrillard

All the rooms at the hotel reflect the same elegant design elements as seen through the rest of the building; however, the Mansart Room – La Junior Suite as well as the Vendôme Room – Deluxe stand out in particular as they both boast remarkable views of Rue de la Paix. While room Mansart offers approximately 50 square metres of space (accommodating 3 guests) with high ceilings and additional views of Place Vendôme, the 28 to 38 square metre room Vendôme (accommodating 2 guests) takes you back in time with 17th century French furnishings.

Hotel Mansart - Deluxe Room - by @gillestrillard

Traveling while trying to ensure your wifi connection is working and getting past the roaming charges when abroad can be difficult at times, but for guests staying at the Hôtel Mansart these worries are unnecessary. Small portable wifi hotspots that weigh as little as 130 g are provided to hotel guests, allowing smooth wifi connection while anywhere within the city.

Esprit de France’s cultural newsletter, which is handed over to guests on arrival, is also a nice a touch to art enthusiasts. Updated every two weeks, it focuses on art and culture news in Paris that ranges from helpful tips and useful advice to enriching art and cultural events.

From the historical significance of the building to the hotel’s fantastic location, Hôtel Mansart is no doubt a great place to rest your head when in Paris.

For more information on the hotel please visit: Hôtel Mansart

Mojo Stumer’s Latest Project | 700 Park Avenue

A two bedroom apartment along New York’s coveted upper east side is the latest work of Mojo Stumer Associates. The firm, which is well known for their modern yet warm interior design work, brought to life 2,300 square feet of living space at 700 Park Avenue.

The team at Mojo Stumer was hired by a Manhattan couple, who were looking to downsize from a larger residence. The end result of their collaboration was the complete transformation of this residence into a chic, open, and all around spacious NYC pied-à-terre.

Mojo Stumer's Latest Project | 700 Park Avenue
Mojo Stumer's Latest Project | 700 Park Avenue

A key aspect of the residence’s design is the flowing nature of the floorplan; large spaces consisting of the living room, dinning room, and kitchen freely flow into one another via a central hall. Evoking a design reminiscent of a modern art gallery, the residence features materials such as rift cut oak flooring, walnut and lacquer cabinetry, as well as Pentalquartz and Thassos stone in the kitchen.

Mojo Stumer's Latest Project | 700 Park Avenue
Mojo Stumer's Latest Project | 700 Park Avenue

When guests enter the residence, they are immediately greeted by “a floating lacquer ceiling accented with ultra-thin linear lights, with walls on both sides clad in plain sliced walnut panels.” Geometric design is a fundamental element of the entry with a full wall length mirror and ample artwork, which leads to a living space with white walls complemented by dark accents. Furniture in this area is soft, simple and refined; thereby creating a supremely elegant atmosphere that is uncluttered. The living room also benefits from oak wood plank floors and “a functional media unit with storage and bar seating.”

Mojo Stumer's Latest Project | 700 Park Avenue
Mojo Stumer's Latest Project | 700 Park Avenue

Across from the living room is the dinning room, this space is similarly designed employing the use of white walls and simple yet creative shelving with glass inserts. Beside the dinning room is the apartment’s open layout gourmet kitchen, featuring a clean modern design language. The kitchen’s cabinets are uniquely finished in a polished white polyester and complimented by white quartz counter-tops. The white back painted glass back-splash is a unique touch especially when viewed in contrast to the room’s stainless steel elements.

Image credit: Mark Stumer, courtesy of Quinn PR

262 Foot M/Y EXCELLENCE Available for Charter in the Mediterranean for the First Time

At 262 Feet (80 Meters), The Abeking & Rasmussen built Excellence which stands out in a crowd of even the most impressive charter yachts. With a modern exterior conceived by Andrew Winch, Excellence is sleek and imposing. Having just enjoyed an inaugural cruising season in the Caribbean, Excellence has now been made available by Burgess Yachts for summer charter bookings in the Mediterranean for the first time ever.

At just over 2,100 gross tons, Excellence offers charter accommodations for up to 12 guests in 7 luxurious staterooms and abundant amenities to rival the finest charters in her class. One such amenity is the yacht’s ample natural lighting delivered via Excellence’s triple height glass atrium. Standing as just one example of Winch’s innovative design language, the glass atrium is one of the vessel’s most distinctive features. Excellence’s exceptional design and thoughtful details are the result of an experienced owner, whose knowledge was refined through the ownership of nearly half a dozen yacht’s prior to the conception of Excellence. Aboard small details are understated, yet completely refined.

Some of our favorite aspects of Excellence are the interior colors and textures, which allow guests to enjoy sophisticated spaces that remain focused on bringing in panoramic views. Spacious rooms stay soft and cosy thanks to warm design materials, such as a unique pallette of exotique woods. Birds eye maple, blue ombre, burr, limed oak, and sycamore pair stunningly well with other elegant finishes crafted from marble and fine leather. Winch’s signature use of mild tones combined with strokes of color here and there bring Excellence’s interior to life.

The vessel’s main deck is made up of entertaining spaces, guest accommodation and a suite of unique amenities. A lounge and dining area open up to an ample exterior space with a large pool and swim up bar. Six guest staterooms on this level are comfortable in size and offer views through massive windows. For a perfect start to your day the main deck features a gym and spa, as well as a tiered cinema where many guests may choose to end their day. From the main deck’s large foyer, a staircase and glass elevator can be accessed to transverse the yacht’s many decks.

Excellence’s upper deck is where amenities shine brightest. The whole of the upper deck has been designed as a very spacious private master suite with lounge, private terrace plus Jacuzzi, and sunbathing areas.

Located above the upper deck is a massive sun deck with an elegant sitting area and dedicated sunbathing spaces accompanied by a large Jacuzzi. From here a short trip can be taken to the lower deck where guests can enjoy a swim in the sea thanks to Excellence’s fantastic beach club, which features a sea terrace with bathing steps for easy access to the water. Aside from a wide selection of water toys, the yacht also benefits from two exquisite limo tenders made by Hodgdon.

As of the publishing of this article, Excellence is available for summer charter from €1,040,000 per week.

Images courtesy of: Burgess Yachts

Despite Covid-19 This Parisian Luxury Food Market is Staying Open to Help Those in Need

LVMH’s world renowned La Grande Epicerie de Paris is widely regarded as one of Paris’ finest luxury food markets. However, as most Parisian staples close down during France’s lock-down, this particular store proves to be a bit of an enigma. In an effort to meet the needs of customers and support the store’s suppliers, La Grande Epicierie has remained open thanks in most part “to the engagement and professionalism of the store’s employees” claimed parent organization LVMH.

Founded in 1923, La Grande Epicerie de Paris offers in addition to a prized selection of house made pastries and breads, over 30,000 products from across the globe. Fine wines, cheese, seafood and meat among them. Located on the ground floor of Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche, the shop’s staff has worked tirelessly to deliver fresh pastries, baked goods, and cheeses to a discerning clientele while supporting local family operated suppliers who face uncertain futures. Although most bakeries and pastry shops in the French capital remained closed, La Grande Epicerie remains staffed from the bakery and pastry shop to the shop’s incredible cheese counter.

To ensure that the store’s operations remain safely uninterrupted extensive safety measures have been implemented, including employee-customer distancing, as well as the provision of gloves, masks and hand sanitizer and plexiglass barriers for checkout staff. Management has even gone as far as advising employees to avoid public transportation and is offering to compensate employees for taxi and bicycle expenses. With these protective measures in place, it’s awfully tempting to pop by and purchase a dozen of epicurean genius Jean-Jacques Massé’ edible masterpieces. During this time customers can even benefit from contact free home delivery via Star Service.

By maintaining operations, the store has supported suppliers from small salt marsh lamb producers to “small artisanal French producers – such as Biscuiterie-Chocolaterie Mercier, Etablissements George Cannon, Kerex, J. Barthouil, Le Comptoir de Mathilde, Groix et Nature, Sacré Willy, Cooperative Sauniers Ile De Ré, Aix&Terra and Berry Graines” said LVMH. Additionally, La Grande Epicerie de Paris is providing support to healthcare workers. The store has donated protective gowns to healthcare providers in the seventh arrondissement of Paris, whereas “over 3,000 Easter chocolates were donated to Paris hospital healthcare personnel and fresh products with short shelf lives are delivered daily to Cochin hospital in Paris with help from Coursier Privé and RedE electric scooters.”

Image credit: © Boris Allin courtesy of LVMH

Top Luxury Cars to Drive in 2020

When it comes to high-end middle range luxury cars, there is quite an extensive list for automobile enthusiasts to choose from. These cars have everything from advanced technological features and precision engineering to luxury interiors and stunning bodywork. When you drive a luxury car in 2020, you can look forward to an experience like no other.

Although there are many exotics choices in the sub $100,000 USD range, such as models from automobile giants like Ferrari or Rolls Royce, you may want to consider purchasing a brand new vehicle to avoid the common issues of acquiring some used cars. Buyers should avoid having to call in professionals like those at Tariolaw.com as a result of an accident in an unsafe vehicle. So, always purchase your used luxury vehicle from a reputable or a reliable dealer. Or better yet, consider a brand new car.

Some Top Luxury Cars You Can Consider

Below we’ve taken a moment to assemble a list of some of our favorite affordable choices to consider in 2020. From the stunning Mercedes Benz S Class to the powerful Tesla Model S, this list has something for everyone.

Mercedes Benz S Class

With its superb functionality and sleek design language, the Mercedes Benz S Class is a great choice for those who seek a combination of uncompromising luxury and extraordinary performance. The vehicle boasts advanced hybrid electric power train technology options, a wonderfully spacious interior, and constitutes an array of integrated technology so you can look forward to advanced features galore. The 2020 S Class has a base price of $95,245.

Tesla Model S

Elon Musk’s Tesla has become a popular choice for those who desire embracing unique functions and technology. The Tesla Model S is luxurious, spacious, and functional, as it is one of the longest-range electric cars currently on the market. And, as to be expected, you can look forward to a wonderfully quiet drive when you get behind the wheel of one of these vehicles. It is a great choice for those that want to benefit from luxury combined with cost-efficiency. Base pricing for the 2020 Model S begins at $81,190.

Audi A8

Packed with advanced features and modern tech, the Audi A8 is a luxury vehicle that ticks all the boxes. Once activated, it will provide excellent capabilities for autonomous motoring. You can choose from a range of engines that are turbocharged, including petrol and diesel. You can sit back and relax in the comfortable yet luxurious interior and, when you are behind the wheel, you can enjoy a smooth driving experience. The 2020 Audi A8 is available from a starting price of $84,795.

BMW X7

BMW is a big name in the luxury vehicle market. A great addition to the luxury SUV market, the BMW X7 integrates with a variety of benefits and features that make it a great choice. Many of the features are geared toward entertainment, information, and convenience. While it may not be quite as luxurious as some of the other models, it is a very functional and practical vehicle that offers powerful performance and comfort. With a base price of $74,895, the 2020 BMW X7 is the most affordable vehicle on this list.

A Unique Driving Experience

No matter which of these luxury vehicles you decide to pursue in the end, you can look forward to a fabulous motoring experience. You can also enjoy the chance to enjoy both leisure and luxury when you are behind the wheel, as well as a vehicle that will look incredibly impressive while on the road or simply parked in your driveway!

Featured Image Courtesy of: Mercedes Benz

Intimate Yet Extravagant Wedding Ideas for 2020

Weddings are personal, that’s why there’s neither a formula for a perfect wedding nor a wedding that fits all. There will always be something different at every wedding, be it the flowers, styling, catering, dress or venue. On top of that, wedding trends change frequently along with changes in people’s tastes and wishes on how they’ll be spending their wedding budget.

Here are some of the simple, yet elegant wedding ideas that soon-to-be-wedded couples can take inspiration from.

Intimate and relaxed weddings

Intimate and relaxed weddings are on top of the trend list this year. In the past, couples may have felt pressured to invite everyone in their lives. Fortunately, this is no longer the trend. Celebrity couples Joe Jonas and Sophie Turner, Justin Bieber and Hailey Baldwin, and Karl Glusman and Zoë Kravitz all got married in small, private and intimate ceremonies. Though these couples had a bigger wedding later, the point is, smaller, more intimate weddings are now becoming a trend as of late. 


With these smaller and cozier weddings, you will not only have a meaningful celebration but you can also improve the quality of food, giveaways, and other wedding essentials. You can spend your budget more lavishly if you have a smaller group of guests. If you desire a more refined event, you can easily do so with under 40 people on your wedding guest list. You can personalize favors or set up a private wine tasting event on your big day. Your guests will surely remember the experience.

Simple and practical wedding dresses

According to Vogue, this year, wedding dresses with hidden pockets will be one of the hottest bridal trends. The reason behind this is its practicality. You can store your lipstick, speech notes, mobile phone, or a sneaky tissue in your wedding dress pocket. The popularity of this type of wedding dress is unbelievable as it yielded an online search increase of 83% during the first part of the year.

Aside from the wedding dress with pockets style, another tasteful bridal trend this year is the unfussy and simple wedding bridal gown of Meghan Markle. Her wedding dress was designed by Clare Waight Keller and it’s the epitome of modern, elegant, and chic. The incredibly lengthy veil will never fail to make any bride proud to wear it. The so-called Meghan Markle effect has been dominating the fashion industry since last year and her wedding dress sealed the deal.

Going big in extravagance

Trimming your guest list down to 40 guests doesn’t mean you also need to cut on the event’s opulence. One of the wedding trends this year is going all-out on everything wedding related.

On top of the list are weddings held on cruise ships, large boats, or private yachts. Also included on the list are oversized wedding decor and giant statements. You can just imagine how amazing it would be for your guests to be welcomed into the reception venue with fireworks and smoke flares. Your guests will also be left in awe when they see oversized centerpieces and huge balloons as they walk inside the room.

Give your wedding that personal touch to make it your own. You can go from giant lights to floral arches and giant balloons. If you want to make your yacht party even more spectacular, you can set-up dry ice and a giant disco ball in the reception area. You and your guests can party the night away in style.

Make your wedding an event to remember today

Planning your wedding demands time and an immense amount of effort. Though weddings should be exciting and worthy to look forward to, what happens between the engagement day and the actual day of the wedding might take its toll on you. When this happens, you should take a step back and imagine how you want the biggest day of your life to pan out. Visualizing the end result can help you make the best decision.

Make a checklist, ask your family and friends for help, and work with reliable and trusted wedding suppliers. All of these can lighten your load and help you plan your wedding day in splendor. For your catering, design, styling and music needs, you can tap local suppliers and professionals. And for your waterfront venue and wedding boat concerns, you can always seek help from event organizers such as landmarkeventco.com.

Good luck and best wishes!

Image Credit: UnSplash.com

What to Look for in a Luxury Private Mooring Service

For people who are new to sailing, there’s a lot to learn. For example, when you sail into new waters on a luxury yacht, you cannot dock anywhere you like — especially in big cities like Seattle. Unlike a sports car that you can park almost anywhere, finding a suitable marina to fit your yacht isn’t as easy as finding a car park.

Theoretically, boats are allowed to moor along towpaths, but it depends on the size of the ship. For instance, superyachts need special accommodations and mooring requirements that require a private facility.

According to Emerald Landing, there are several things you need to consider when looking for a  private mooring service for your superyacht. Here are the top 6 you need to be on the lookout for:

  1. Tide and current. Both the tide and current can endanger the ship while maneuvering toward the slip or while moored. The harbor tides could be huge (referring to the gravitational effects of the ocean) and residual (which is computed as the difference between the water level at the harbor and the astronomical tide).
  1. Capacity. Another thing to look for is the capability of the facility to accommodate the size of the vessel. Most yachts range from 40 feet (any ship smaller than that is usually called a cabin cruiser) to 100 feet. Superyachts can be as long as 500 feet in length, although the average is around 150 feet or so.
  1. Security. The private mooring facility should be secured 24/7 to ensure that your belongings and state-of-the-art equipment inside the vessel are safe. Knowing your things are secure will allow you to enjoy your stay in a luxurious hotel or villa while your yacht is being serviced. Among the typical solutions are a no-climb fence, controlled gate access, CCTVs, and private security. The security camera can be integrated with your yacht’s onboard security system.
  1. Private. For some people, their privacy is sacred. If you want to arrive in a city incognito, you will need to look for off-street parking for you and your staff. You will also need private access directly to your yacht, so that you can go in and out anytime you like without being seen.
  1. Electric power. While moored, you can recharge your batteries at the electrical power outlets at the dock. Each vessel requires different capacities, so you want to make sure yours are included. You want a 60 Hz 480 volt 3-phase outlet with different connections ranging from 100 up to 400 amps. However, some vessels require single-phase power at 120 or 240 volts at 30 and 50 amps.
  1. Maintenance crew. A full-service private berthing facility would not be complete without a maintenance staff to look over every inch of your vessel. When you sail, you do not usually bring in your own pit crew; you outsource the job when you are moored on a trip. It is simply more convenient that way.

Whether you are in town for a visit or you need to have your ship maintained and repaired in preparation for your next destination, you will benefit from docking in a private facility.  You can sail in and out without anyone noticing you, which is fantastic if you want to preserve your anonymity.

Image Credit: UnSplash.com

2020 Luxury Electric Cars: Reduce Your Carbon Footprint In Style

It has become clear during this new decade that protecting the environment is a responsibility that is shared by everyone. As the push towards reducing our need to consume fossil fuels expands, the rise of many alternative sources of energy has taken over many parts of the economy.

Innovative companies like Tesla have been on the frontier of hybrid and electrically powered vehicles for over a decade. Although the aim is to create affordable electric vehicles for the common man, Tesla and other luxury car manufacturers are in a tight race to match eco-friendliness with style and class.

Reducing your carbon footprint is now possible while maintaining an elite status. Combining powerful and elegant machinery using the most eco-friendly manufacturing methods has never been a hotter trend. You can get freedom from the gas pump, qualify for environmental discounts from Allstate car insurance and still drive a stunning vehicle that is in the class that you deserve.

The top luxury electric cars for 2020 are imagined by teams of engineers dedicated to the classic looks and quality that their companies have always been known for as they help buyers drive in elegance through the 21st century.

Tesla Model X

Tesla Model X

The Model X debuted in 2016 and has undergone a number of updates as it is redesigned each and every year. As a midsize crossover vehicle, it provides eco-conscious drivers a zero-emission drive that is at the height of technological advances.

With the ability to deliver the electric equivalent of 90 MPG in the city and 89 MPG on the highway, the Tesla Model X can run longer than its competitors with an extended range between charging. With innovative features including all-electric door entry, extensive onboard safety features and a sleek look, you will feel like you are driving towards the future.

Porsche Taycan

Porsche Taycan

The Porsche Taycan does not disappoint those that are looking to embrace the power and style of the brand while keeping the environment in mind. The Taycan is a stunning sedan that utilizes two unique electric motors for the best in handling and power.

The interior is designed with the classic style of Porsche using only the best and most luxurious fabrics and accessories. This all-wheel-drive electric vehicle with the ability to convert to rear-axle steering will give you 68 MPG in the city and 71 MPG when you let it loose on the highway.

Jaguar I-PACE

Jaguar I-PACE

The EPA has estimated that “the Jaguar I-PACE can travel up to 234 miles on one charge.” This incredible distance that could cover the span between New York and D.C. is a true game-changer for drivers looking for an electric hybrid that packs a punch.

Using an advanced set of rechargeable motors, the I-PACE is the epitome of the style and grace that Jaguar has always been known for. The I-PACE delivers all-wheel-drive navigation, advanced safety technology and over 80 MPG on both city roads and the highway.

BMW i8 Coupe and i8 Roadster

BMW i8

BMW continues to deliver the height of sophistication in both the Coupe and Roadster models of their innovative i-8 design. Both stylish and practical models boast an impressive 369 horsepower all-electric engine that gives it a jump on the competition. With luxurious interiors, onboard navigation and technology that rivals the best in the industry, the BMW i8 is a classic ride that will not disappoint. It is the path of the elite that the masses will follow in fashion and trends. Comfort yourself in style and luxury while reducing your carbon footprint with one of these extravagant, yet environmentally responsible vehicles of the future.

Feature Image Credit: Pixabay