Modern Luxury editor Sarah Bray shares plans for her dream destination wedding.

Although I live in New York City and am from Texas, I can’t think of a more picturesque place to tie the knot than Bermuda. Since getting engaged, I’ve spent time researching everything the island has to offer for my destination wedding that’s set for Spring 2020. From booking a historic home for the rehearsal dinner and to finding a “wow” waterfront wedding venue, to chartering a celebratory sunset sail and to a farewell brunch in the botanical gardens, my wedding weekend is going to be full of unforgettable moments. Scroll on for my wedding weekend wish list.

THE WELCOME PARTY

I plan to kick off the weekend with a sunset party at 1609 Bar & Restaurant at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club overlooking the Princess Marina. On the menu: Bermuda’s famous cocktail, the Rum Swizzle, and fish tacos featuring the local catch.

THE REHEARSAL DINNER

Bermuda’s unique style of architecture is recognizable around the world for its signature white-stepped roofs. Many historic homes—some nearly four centuries old—still stand thanks to preservation societies, like the Bermuda National Trust. The organization offers several stunning homes for wedding venues and outdoor and indoor receptions.

THE WEDDING

There are so many gorgeous backdrops in Bermuda that it’s difficult to decide where to get married. There are two wedding day venues that top my list: the Unfinished Church in the Town of St. George, an elegant edifice of 1870s on which construction was never completed, and Coral Beach Club, an old-school, oceanfront club that feels straight out of a Slim Aarons photo.

THE FLOWERS

Bermuda has the most lush landscape blooming with hibiscus, bougainvillea and roses. For my wedding arrangements, I plan to incorporate all of these flowers, plus an abundance of palm leaves. To make it all come together, I’m hiring on-the-ground event experts, Dasfete.

THE TABLESCAPES

Bermuda is famous for its pink sand beaches and pink facades, so I will set tables in a pastel pink palette. I’ll use Bermuda-inspired block print tablecloths by India Amory (founder Julia spends every summer in Bermuda) and custom napkins from Hibiscus Linens embroidered with my favorite Bermudian blooms. Again, I will work with Dasfete to bring my vision to life with local rental resources.

THE DRESS CODE

Not to be a bossy bride, but I will suggest a dress code on my wedding invitations. I’ll especially ask that men follow Bermuda’s formal dress, which is pastel-hued shorts paired with a blazer and knee socks. For my bridesmaids, I’ll be asking each to pick out a floral sundress inspired by Bermuda’s Botanical Gardens. For Bermuda socks, The English Sports Shop on Front Street in Hamilton is a great resource, and local fashion brand, TABS Bermuda, has shorts in a rainbow of hues.

THE FAREWELL BRUNCH
Another great venue for a welcome party, our rehearsal dinner or a farewell brunch, is Tom Moore’s Tavern. Founded in 1652, it’s Bermuda’s oldest watering hole. The tavern is tucked away in an overgrown jungle that overlooks a small marina, and history lovers, like myself, will find the waterfront restaurant charming.

Ready to explore Bermuda as your wedding destination? Enjoy a free night at participating hotels when you book Bermuda this summer. Scout venues, meet with vendors or simply celebrate love, all a short flight away. Click to learn more.