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Here’s another peek inside my trip of a lifetime. AndBeyond Sandibe is a rustic 8-room safari camp deep in the jungle landscape of Botswana. It’s located on an enormous private land concession that encompasses a variety of topography from wetlands and wooded areas of soft sand to areas thick with foliage. Such a varied landscape makes for endless opportunities to see a vast range of wildlife. While staying here, we spotted elephants, wild dogs, zebras, baboons and giraffes, among others (for more details on the exciting game drives, pick up the May/June issue of your fave bridal mag.). Here, all rooms are villas with wooden decks located above the wetlands. From there you can see hipps below and baboons in the trees. For more info on the lodge, go to andbeyond.com.

—Jenna Mahoney

Any bride worth her white dress knows that destination weddings are all the rage. One reason, we ladies (and the grooms who marry us) love them is the special sense of place. Another biggie is the affordability factor. So, it would stands to reason that McDonald’s the company that is synonymous with inexpensive eating would offer a fast-food wedding package. Starting at $400 for 100 people, the weddings include the ceremony and reception all under taking place under the golden arches. The “Warm and Sweet Package” includes gifts, invitations and special décor, featuring Ronald and the Hamburglar. A balloon wedding cake, dress rental and other add-ons are also available.
 A few caveats: Right now, these packages are only available when the restaurants are open and no alcohol is allowed—looks like you’ll have to toast with the orange drink. Oh and another thing, you’ll have to go to Hong Kong to tie the knot next to the Fry Guys. Guess this adds a new spin to the tagline—I’m lovin’ it. 

For a list of some of my top destination wedding picks, check out my guest blog at the travel site ZipSetGo.com. Swak!

—Jenna Mahoney

For something a little different—and a lot beautiful and entirely unique—take a look at this shimmery, one-of-a-kind body artwork for weddings by Akiyo, a henna artist who visited us in our offices one day. Akiyo can also embellish her artwork with Swarovski crystals. Plus, it'll stay for your honeymoon: Henna designs last for 4-14 days depending on where it is placed. It can also be removed at a preferred time. For more information call 917-607-6897 or email [email protected].

—Susan Schneider
 

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Long, traditional gowns are typically the status quo for the wedding ceremony. But modern brides are looking for short, fun frocks fit for dancing late into the night! Fortunately, we have the ultimate budget-friendly solution: Transformer gowns! These 2-in-1 dresses take the bride from her ceremony to reception with just a quick unzip or unbutton of the skirt. That’s why many contemporary brides are changing into short, fun frocks for the party! Our two faves right now? The “Molly” from David Tutera by Faviana (above left) and Martina Liana Style 260 (above right), that also comes with removable bolero. Amazing, right? Now tell us: Would you wear a transfomer gown?

—Rachel Dichter

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Now that we've dished on the scene at last Tuesday's Race For the Rock, it's only fair that we share the video of the live proposal that occured this morning! Being an editor here has its advantages—namely getting to be a part of the whole secret! I was lucky enough to bring my boyfriend and myself (check us out at the far right end of contestants!) over to the PIX11 studios, wait in the green room with Phyllicia and Gary, pretending that my BF and I were also up for the big prize! Thanks to Gary's excellent poker face and the makeup artist's slick work, Phyllicia was totally stunned when the moment arrived. Gary's proposal with the fabulous Gelin Abaci diamond engagement ring was just beautiful, and we wish the couple of lifetime of happiness! Check out the clip above, then tell us: Would you want to be proposed to live on air?

—Rachel Jacoby

Here at Bridal Guide, we love to give back to our readers, so we hosted our seventh Race For the Rock, an NYC-based scavenger hunt for the ultimate prize—a $7,000 diamond engagment ring from of-the-moment jeweler GelinAbaci. The tension-set ring features a brilliant, round-cut center stone in a diamond pavé setting. Simply put, it's gorgeous.

The crowd was tense before the race began: The men (and women!) had each of their hearts set on the ring—not to mention a live televised proposal on PIX11 Morning News on Valentine's Day. While pacing around Bridal Reflections, a chic 5th avenue bridal salon, people anxiously texted or their cell phones or perused the ample selection of gorgeous designer gowns. Different strategies were being employed: smart phones (one man even downloaded a Map App), friends and family waiting by the phone to help deconstruct clues, and one woman even went old-school by toting a NYC Subway Map.
 

Happy Valentine’s Day weekend, everyone! I’m sure you have a number of cool things planned—perhaps a romantic getaway, dinner and a movie, or just a cozy stay-at-home evening. And some of you single ladies reading this may soon put a ring on your finger as Valentine’s Day is one of the most popular days for popping the question! So have fun, celebrating and don’t forget to watch one of our favorite TV shows, My Fair Wedding, this Sunday night on WEtv. On this “Mini Truck Bride” episode Fashion Editor, Naima DiFranco, and I team up with the amazing David Tutera to transform one self-professed “tomboy” into a chic, elegant bride. We had a ball working with David and all the crew and loved bride-to-be Michelle. Check out the teaser, and be sure to tune in and enjoy the magic!

In the meantime, keep in mind these four tips on how to keep your love strong throughout your marriage from Dr. Tina B. Tessina, relationship expert and author of nine books: