Monday, January 25, 2016

Hamptons Wedding Venues: How to be the Best Bride and Groom

It takes some effort to be on someone’s big day at one of the Hamptons wedding venues. Women have to have their hair done and their faces dolled up, and the moms need to find babysitters for their kids at home. Some of the men might have to do long drives from wherever they’re coming. Most of the guests will have to find special gifts, and dress up better than they usually do.

Below are a few tips on how to become the best bride and groom ever, so that all the trouble will be worth it:

Feed them well. Do make an effort to find good food that’s within your budget. That’s what food tastings are for. And once you’ve booked the caterer, discuss ways to keep your guests’ tummies satisfied. Between the wedding ceremony and the reception, there might be some waiting time. Make sure appetizers are served, along with some drinks. And for the reception itself, do consider the time of your wedding, the number of your guests, and the combination of your dishes to come up with a great menu. Expect them to be hungry if the ceremony happens just before a mealtime. Provide some leeway in case some people tag others along, or come for second helpings. And talk to your caterer’s chef for items that will go well with each other, as well as your available beverages.

Don’t forget to relax. Once you get into the thick of the preparations, you might become so stressed that you forget what this is all about. And on your wedding day, your guests will see and feel this. You have a choice whether you will let the wedding planning reveal the worst parts of each other, or to strengthen your bond by simply enjoying the journey together. So, promise to treat each other well even as you disagree, and to always meet halfway with a smile on your faces.

Think of an appropriate wedding program. Do think of your guests when you plan your program. If you’re having kids at your reception, find a way to keep them entertained. Don’t force attendees to play games you yourself would not like to play. Find a wedding band whose musical repertoire match your guests’ preferences. And, try to keep the program short, but sweet and meaningful.

Good luck planning your big day at one of the best Hamptons wedding venues!

Friday, November 6, 2015

Hamptons Wedding Venues: Fashion Hits for a Winter Wedding

Are you going to be a winter bride at one of the fine Hamptons wedding venues? Congratulations and also good luck, because you’re probably in the heat of the preparations for your big day now.

Read on for some of the hottest fashion hits of the season!

Deep V neckline. The deep V neckline is big these days, and it looks like it’s coming to stay. Big names like Carolina Herrera, Naeem Khan, Inbal Dror, and Dennis Basso all have their versions, and the pieces are all lovely! And take note: They don’t require big bossoms – they look just as great on the well-endowed and the flat-chested, and on different types of fabric, too!

A-line or ball gown silhouette. Last year was about mermaid or serpentina silhouettes. This year (and for the next ones to come, it seems), a-line or ball gown silhouettes are becoming more popular. Full skirts create the illusion of full hips, which will provide a great contrast to the fitted waist. Helping create this silhouette are fabrics like organza and tulle, used like petticoat, or as flutter detail.

Wraps and coats. Winter weddings are about keeping warm but still looking beautiful. A number of designers have since made chic, bridal versions of wraps and coats. Would you consider an off-white motorcycle jacket made of lambskin with fur detail on the collar? A mohair cardigan perhaps? Or the more traditional lace bolero? What about coats and jackets made of satin or taffeta? With the right embellishments, all these will look well on top of your gown.

Cutouts. Cutouts are a lovely addition to any wedding number. They give a glimpse of skin, but just enough to make it more interesting. These cutouts can be placed at the sides, at the abdomen for a peek at the navel perhaps, just below the breasts, the waist, and even parts of the skirt.

Details! Feather, crystal beadwork, sequins, lace appliques, and other embellishments on the bodice are popular on the runways for this season. They create exciting contrasts in texture, and create volume and shape where there is none. Embellishments also help draw attention to the bride’s best assets, such as the decolletage, the waist, or the back.

The moment you don your wedding gown, remember to wear the best accessory: Put a big smile on your face as you walk in the aisle of one of the classiest Hamptons wedding venues!

Tuesday, August 18, 2015

Why You Should Spend Your Honeymoon in the Hamptons

If you fancy the idea of sipping wine, swimming in the crystal clear waters or fine dining in a luxury restaurant with your loved one, the Hamptons is the ideal destination for your honeymoon.

While the allure of Paris never fails to attract honeymooners, the Hamptons’ stature as a famed summer destination for jetsetters all over the world makes it a perfect place for newlywed couples looking for a romantic way to savor their first few days as husband and wife.

Here are some of the reasons why you should spend your honeymoon in the Hamptons:

Getting to the Hamptons is easy. You can ride a bus or a seaplane to get to the Hamptons. These modes of transportation are easily accessible especially to the New Yorkers. If you reside in New York, you need not to spend the whole day in travel. Getting there would only take 4-5 hours and an hour by plane.

There are plenty of things to do while in the Hamptons. Take advantage of the crystal clear waters of the fine beaches in the Hamptons. Swim on the beach with your loved one or watch the setting sun as you walk along shores. After a day of frolicking on the beach, explore the many restaurants and fill your appetite with the best tasting lobster dishes and desserts. Or go shopping in one of the favorite boutiques of Hollywood celebrities like Beyonce, Katy Perry and Jennifer Lopez.

If you enjoy visiting galleries, the neighborhood features a wide array of museums that hold a vast collection of artworks from many notable artists. Visit Parrish Art Museum and see the 2,600 works ranging from early nineteenth-century landscape paintings through American Impressionism and into the twentieth and twenty-first centuries such as the largest public collection of William Merritt Chase from 1870 to 1890s and the Fairfield Porter Collection from 1940s to 1975.

Or you can have a fancy date in one of the vineyards in the Hamptons. Sample the fine selection of wines while admiring the beautiful view of the vast vineyards. If you want to experience a fun night of dancing to the live music of the bands, visit the vineyards during its weekly events like Twilight Thursdays, Sunset Fridays and Saturdays.

The Hamptons is a swanky neighborhood. Apart from the activities available in the Hamptons, the village takes pride in its first-class accommodations, spectacular ocean view and top-of-the-line service, guaranteeing honeymooners a relaxing and wonderful time together.

Tuesday, June 2, 2015

Must-reads This Summer: Three Books Set in the Hamptons

Long Island, New York does not only take pride in its white-sand beaches, historical and art museums, and the Hamptons restaurants. It is also home to book lovers and writers looking for inspiration for their next masterpiece.

Check out these top five books set in the Hamptons that will convince you to visit the island, or plan another trip in one of U.S.’ most popular summer destinations.

Scandalous by Ella Steele. This New York Times and USA Today bestseller is a romance book series between an idealist girl named Abby, and the one who broke her heart 10 years ago, Jack. After joining a congregation, Abby decided to go to Long Island where she found a job in an art studio, which led her to Jack. Their second encounter would ignite Abby’s old feelings for Jack, which she thought was only hatred and sense of rejection.

This novel perfectly depicts how the Hamptons attracts artistic souls, not only in book plots, but also in real life. Andy Warhol lived in this charming town before due to its unique architecture, which seemed like a melting pot of Polynesian and Tudor design.

Ella Steele is a pen name used by bestselling American author H.M. Ward.

The Au Pairs by Melissa de la Cruz. Like Steele’s Scandalous, the Au Pairs is another perfect summer read about a group of friends living in New York City. They decided to spend the summer in the east coast’s hottest destination of the season. Mara, Eliza and Jacqui are all going through a challenge in each of their lives.  Mara has decided to go to the Hamptons to save money for college. She is also facing a rocky relationship with boyfriend, Jim, which led her to start the trip. Eliza, on other, is a former society girl until their family lost their fortune. Meanwhile, Jacqui is a Brazilian who set foot in the country in search of her true love, whom she met in South America a couple months ago.

This book is a fun, crazy, yet light novel about three girls’ journey to the most unforgettable summer of their lives.

Murder in the Hamptons by Amy Garvey. This mystery romance novel revolves around a girl named Maggie Harding who wants to solve a famous movie star’s murder case at a party in the Hamptons. But this will not be easy for her, because her weekend fling five years ago suddenly pops into her life trying to relive that night, which drove her out of her mind.

This action-packed novel will make readers try to solve the case, while watching Maggie fall in love again. Additionally, it will tour readers around the lovely Hamptons neighborhood.

Monday, February 16, 2015

Hampton Night Clubs: What Makes a Club Buzzworthy?

New York’s nightlife scene will not be as lively as it is without Hampton night clubs.  And every night, each party zone in this upscale part of the Long Island presents a bold statement that constantly attracts partygoers who have high-standards when it comes to clubbing.

But what really makes a night club haute and buzzworthy? Check out these factors:

Design and concept. In today’s uber-competitive club industry, a unique party concept is a must and this starts with the look and feel of the venue. Simplicity is no longer in the vocabulary of club designs as the trend calls for exteriors and interiors that embody class and luxury.

So if you want to have a clubbing experience that is truly one for the books, look for a club with an ambience that would raise your spirits and fuel you to party without any inhibitions.

Music. The entire mood of a club highly depends on the kind of music being played. And with the coming of Electronic Dance Music (EDM), the demand for state-of-the-art sound system in night clubs is higher than before.  Aside from modernization, you’d be surprised to know that there’s a science behind this trend.

According to the “The Instant Effects of Electronic Dance Music [EDM]” penned by Stefan Oertl, EDM is designed to have an ecstatic effect on its audience. This ‘altered state of consciousness’ is commonly known as the trance-like state that leads to self-reinforcing emotions or actions of well-being that promote social bonding. However, the study points out that such state can only be achieved if the audio is loud, clear and engaging.

This probably explains why clubs that feature today’s hottest DJs are always jam-packed – the kind of music that they play doesn’t only light up the venue, but establishes a positive connection among the crowd as well.

Booze. After visiting a number of bars in New York, you are now probably more particular with the quality than the quantity of cocktails that you drink. In fact, according to liqueur companies, 2015 is the year when consumers are more focused on selecting only the premium brands.

“In some of the most advanced spirits markets in the world, consumers are moving away from faddish, brightly colored brands, with no history, towards brands with a rich history, stories, craft brands that have authentic stories to tell or a real place to show consumers where it's made,” shared Paul Scanlon, one of the managing directors of a Wines & Spirits company.

So go over the bar’s cocktail list. Do they offer only the finest brands of liquors, wines, and beers? Do they also have signature concoctions?  If yes, then that is the place where you can enjoy memorable drinking sessions with your buddies.

For a truly unforgettable party experience, head off to one of the Hampton night clubs that meet or even beat these measures.

Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Excellent Restaurants in the Hamptons

The Hamptons on Long Island, New York are perfect for serene seaside excursions. At the same time, they're also perfect for having unparalleled dining experiences. If you're a big-time foodie, then you'll never feel hungry or bored while you're in lovely Southampton or East Hampton.

If you're a fresh seafood fan, there's no better place to visit than the Hamptons. Not only do many restaurants in the Hamptons serve first-rate seafood dishes, but many of them focus on creativity and innovation in their recipes. While seafood restaurants in the Hamptons do indeed serve the classics, they also serve exciting dishes such as tempura battered shrimp and lobster, lobster-corn chowder and horseradish crusted local cod. If you usually dine with someone who isn't that excited about seafood, never fear. The area's seafood eateries tend to also offer many tasty chicken, beef, duck and pork meals.

When you have a hankering for red meat, the restaurants in the Hamptons won't leave you hanging. Many quality steakhouses exist in the area. Whether you're daydreaming about prime rib au jus, filet mignon, New York strip steak or sliced steak sandwiches, you'll be elated to view all of your choices in the Hamptons' many restaurants. Steakhouses in the Hamptons also typically serve many other types of foods. If you're at a steakhouse in the area, you might be able to sink your teeth into chicken parmigiana, broiled salmon, a veggie burger, barbecue chicken, roasted duck, fajitas or quiche, to mention a handful of possibilities.

Modern American cuisine is easily available in many restaurants in the Hamptons, too. If you appreciate the diversity and selection of contemporary American meals, the Hamptons will provide you with an unforgettable dining experience. Their eateries serve scrumptious meals such as roasted Maine halibut, Atlantic swordfish and pan roasted natural chicken. While the food is undoubtedly American-centric, it's also often strongly influenced by other cultures.

If you appreciate Italian fare that's true to its European roots, then many restaurants in the Hamptons might be right up your alley. While laid-back pizzerias are extremely common in the area, restaurants that serve authentic Italian dishes are just as abundant. If you're a fan of pizza, margherita, four cheese and Napoletana menu choices are all regularly seen on Hamptons menus. Outside of pizza, Hampton restaurants also serve many other exciting and delicious classic Italian meals, notably baked ziti, bruschetta, calamari, linguine, penne and chicken Milanese. If you ask, you might even be able to get pasta that's free of gluten. Whole wheat pasta options are also common in the Hamptons.

People who love eating in refined, sophisticated environments are sure to have a terrific time in the Hamptons. If you want to take care of your hunger in a quaint and beautiful setting, be sure to stop by one of the area's several French dining establishments, for example. If you do so, you'll be able to relish menu items such as sauteed chicken medallions Provencal, smoked pork chops, French onion soup and escargot. If you happen to have a sweet tooth, you might even want to consider ordering delectable desserts such as creme brulee, cheesecake, French vanilla ice cream and lemon mousse.

While the Hamptons is indeed full of restaurants of all varieties, the area's dining scene also boasts diversity. You don't have to be willing to spend a lot of money to eat well in the Hamptons. Whether you're looking to pay for a five-star meal or you want to eat something quick and inexpensive, you'll be A-OK in the Hamptons. If you're searching for budget-friendly fare, for example, be sure to stop by the Hamptons' various delis and fast food establishments.

Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Visiting the Hamptons

If you want to enjoy a vacation full of serenity, peace and natural beauty, then The Hamptons on Long Island, New York's South Fork might just make a perfect option for you. The East Hampton and Southampton area is a hub for relaxation, complete with quaint and gorgeous beaches.

Beaches, as indicated, are a big strength of the Hamptons. If you wish to revel in the warm glow of the sun, you can't beat the area. Smooth sand, clear blue skies and shimmering waters are all characteristic of the region's beaches. If you enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, kitesurfing, water-skiing, jet-skiing, kayaking or paddleboarding, then you'll definitely appreciate a day in the area.

Many visitors to the Hamptons also greatly appreciate culture. If you're a big fan of history and the arts, then you'll surely benefit from a visit to the area. History museums, art museums, vineyards and historic landmarks are all in a day's work here. Whether you wish to explore lighthouses from far back in the past, museums that delve into the area's extensive background or impressive historic residences, you're sure to have a terrific time.

When you visit the area, you can feel secure knowing that you'll always be able to enjoy a delicious meal. The dining options in the Hamptons are extremely numerous and diverse. If you want to savor a gourmet dish such as lobster salad, Chilean sea bass or roasted organic chicken, then you have many A+ choices available to you. If you want an easy, no-frills yet tasty slice of pizzeria pizza, the same applies. Visitors to this area can choose between a broad array of quality dining establishments, whether All-American, Italian, French, Japanese, Chinese, Mexican or practically anything else. Inexpensive diners and fast food establishments are also available here. Whether you live to eat or simply eat to live, you'll have no problem getting full and happy.

People who love a good party now and then are also sure to appreciate this Long Island area. There's no shortage of lively nightclub options in the Hamptons, after all. If you're a big fan of dancing to a backdrop of upbeat music, you have many options in nightclubs. If you prefer sitting back and relaxing with a tasty cocktail at a lounge, you have many choices, too. If you're in the mood for a chic and stylish nightlife world, then you'll be extremely satisfied with all of the clubs and lounges around you.

Luxurious shopping is also available in the area -- and how. Whether you need some classic retail therapy or are simply looking to purchase necessities or gifts for friends or family members, you'll have no issues tracking down a great shopping destination. Whether you're looking around for sophisticated attire, housewares, toys for kiddies, gourmet groceries, furniture, books, electronics, jewelry, accessories or almost anything else under the sun, you'll be able to easily find it in the area.

If you feel like getting away from it all in the Northeast, then the Hamptons might just be a tranquil and pleasant destination choice for you. The area has a little something for everyone. Athletic types who love water sports can have a great time. People who love the warmth of the sun can have a blast. People who are highly interested in culture and the arts are certain to enjoy the area. If you think that you might want to visit the Hamptons, be sure to plan your trip carefully. Since the area can get extremely crowded during the summer months, it's smart to always prepare beforehand. With the right preparation, your trip is sure to be enriching, relaxing and perhaps even educational.