This Honeymoon Edition of Texas Weddings Magazine is your passport to romance — whether you’re planning a bachelorette weekend, a dreamy destination wedding, or that once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon.
Picture yourself lounging at a beach club in Tulum, sipping wine in Fredericksburg’s German-style vineyards, or soaking up the sun at an all-inclusive in Cancun. Or maybe you’re ready for a scenic U.S. road trip made for two — windows down, playlists up, adventure ahead.
We fell in love with Georgia’s Barnsley Resort, where a love story from the 1800s still lingers in the air. It’s the kind of place you’d want to say “I do” and never leave. And if you’ve never experienced the Midwest, Wisconsin’s charm just might surprise you.
When it’s time to turn those travel dreams into reality, our trusted travel advisors are ready to help plan every perfect detail.
Here’s to love, travel, and your next great adventure together! Laurette
ON THE COVER Fredericksburg, Texas (Photo Credit: Jason Risner)
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Laurette M. Veres
Laura Marchand
MANAGING EDITOR & DESIGN
Princeton Fernandes
EDITORIAL
Grace Hare
Sonia Soto Zenah Al-naimi
Copyright 2025-2026
Texas Weddings Magazine PO Box 667547 Houston, TX 77266
PHOTO BY IVAN GARCIA STUDIO
Bridal Extravaganza
The Ultimate Wedding Wonderland
by Grace Hare
This June the Houston Bridal Extravaganza in the George R. Brown Convention Center came to life with bustling brides, bubbly vendors, and the entertainment opportunities from wedding dress fashion shows, to firefighters strutting the catwalks in custom fitted suits, or live DJs playing music or setting off their fog machines.
Before the show opens to the public, VIP brides line up to receive their bonus gifts and early access into the exhibit hall. Full of excitement, these exclusive access brides wore sashes with glittery gold and silver courtesy of Bridal Party Gifts by Laura Lu, bridal tiaras that lit up, and customized tote bags full of little surprises.
Once inside, brides took in the view of rows and rows of vendors- all ready to strike up conversations and give away discounts and merchandise to customers.
By the end of the show, guests could find themselves ready to book with makeup and hair stylists, videographers, photographers, wedding dress appointments, venue tours, or catering and cake tastings.
With this and everything in between, the event was an all-inclusive, one-stop shop for the dream wedding. Full of the retellings of many beautiful love stories, the sounds of laughter and excitement, and aisles filled with businesses to mix and mingle with, this wedding shopping experience cut out the pain of planning the perfect wedding alone.
PSA to all of the 2026 brides-to-be: Don’t miss the next Houston Bridal Extravaganzahappening January 24 and 25, 2026 in the George R. Brown Convention Center! www.BridalExtravaganza.com
Photography: Diego Correa, Jesse Garcia, Marvin Garcia
(Seven54Photograpy), Kendell Giles.
BARNSLEY RESORT:
A Destination Wedding Steeped in Romance
by Laurette M. Veres
For couples dreaming of a wedding that blends timeless romance, breathtaking scenery, and an unforgettable guest experience, Barnsley Resort in north Georgia is a destination worth the journey. Just a short flight or road trip from Texas, this historic property offers everything couples need to create a wedding weekend as beautiful as it is seamless.
A Love Story Lives On Barnsley’s roots stretch back to the 1840s, when Englishman Godfrey Barnsley began building the estate for his beloved wife Julia. Inspired by landscape architect Andrew Jackson Downing, the gardens and cottages were designed to celebrate beauty, family, and love. Today, the ruins of their grand Manor House and the surrounding grounds offer a romantic
www.barnselyresort.com
backdrop that keeps their story alive—and provides an unparalleled setting for modern-day celebrations.
Stunning
Venues for Every Vision
The resort offers a collection of indoor and outdoor wedding venues, each with its own character. Exchange vows in the formal gardens, surrounded by historic boxwoods and blooming roses. Or, host a grand reception in the Savannah Ballroom complete with fireplace, veranda and terrace with a view of the ruins. Speaking of ruins, for couples drawn to the allure of history, the Manor House Ruins create a setting unlike any other. In the location that was once a rose garden, the pavilion is located right next to the ruins; a perfect reception location.
Cottages Made for Gathering
One of the resort’s standout features for weddings is its collection of renovated cottages. With accommodations ranging from cozy one-bedroom retreats to spacious multi-room layouts, they’re perfect for bridal parties, large families, or groups of friends looking to make a wedding weekend into a true getaway. The cottages bring historic charm with modern comfort, ensuring every guest feels at home.
Rehearsal Dinners & Signature Dining
Food is at the heart of the Barnsley experience. Jules, the resort’s signature restaurant, brings culinary artistry to the table. Inspired by Julia Barnsley’s world travels, the cuisine offers a modern Southern lens—whether savoring farm-fresh ingredients from the chef’s garden or indulging in classics like Chef Shaun’s beloved pork schnitzel. A full restaurant buyout makes for an unforgettable rehearsal dinner, with menus inspired by Southern tradition and global flavors—paired with wines curated by Georgia’s only master sommelier. More casual gatherings come alive in the Biergarten, where an elevated menu is a real treat.
Activities for Every Guest
Barnsley shines as a true destination wedding resort because there’s something for everyone to enjoy beyond the ceremony. Guests can spend the weekend swimming in the new pools, playing pickleball or golf, exploring miles of trails, or trying their hand at archery and air rifles. Families love the miniature horses and goats, while history buffs delight in tours of the Manor House Ruins and gardens. And for an extra touch of Southern charm? The resort’s signature bourbon tasting ritual at the Inn takes place every Thursday through Saturday. Bridal parties can elevate the experience with a smokeinfused “Old-Fashioned” service, presented in a dramatic wooden chest—an unforgettable way to kick off the weekend.
A Destination with Heart
Preserved and reimagined over generations, Barnsley is more than a resort—it’s a place where history and hospitality meet. For Texas couples looking to give their guests not just a wedding but an immersive experience, Barnsley delivers. From the cottages and venues to the bourbon rituals and garden backdrops, it’s a destination wedding that feels like stepping into a storybook—where past and present, love and legacy, come together beautifully.
Why Texas Couples Love Barnsley Resort
Destination Wedding Ready
Easily accessible from Texas, Barnsley feels like a true escape without being too far from home.
Stunning Venues
From the historic Manor House Ruins and formal gardens to the elegant Savannah Ballroom, couples can choose indoor or outdoor settings with unforgettable character.
Renovated Cottages
Perfect for bridal parties, families, or groups of friends—charming, spacious cottages turn a wedding into a full weekend retreat.
Elevated Dining
Host a rehearsal dinner at Jules, the resort’s signature restaurant with a wine list curated by Georgia’s only master sommelier.
Signature Bourbon Ritual
Complimentary tastings every Thurs–Sat at the Inn, with the option to add a smoke-infused old-fashioned experience for bridal parties and rehearsal dinners.
Activities for All
Guests can enjoy golf, clay shooting, new pools, pickleball, horseback riding, archery, air rifles, or simply wander the historic gardens and ruins.
Rooted in Romance
Built as a love story in the 1840s, Barnsley’s history adds depth and meaning to every wedding celebrated here.
Tulum Secrets
Where Time Slows and the Sea Sings
by Laurette Veres
Grab your girls and pack your cutest swimsuits—Secrets Tulum Resort and Beach Club is calling! This is where the jungle meets the ultimate party vibes: think multiple pools, an over-the-top spa, foam parties you’ll never forget, and dinner shows that turn into dance parties. Basically, the bachelorette trip of your dreams.
In between cocktails, sprinkle in some culture. Explore the Tulum Archaeological Zone with its jaw-dropping cliffside ruins or take a day trip to Chichen Itza and cross a world wonder off your bucket list.
Culture + cocktails = balance.
When you’re ready to escape the crowd, the Beach Club is your private slice of paradise. Just a short jungle ride away, this hidden gem is only for Secrets guests. Kick off your shoes, sink your toes into the softest sand ever, and let the turquoise sea be your backdrop. Hammocks and loungers are made for lazy laughs and bestie selfies, while the staff keeps your margaritas topped off.
With two pools, two bars, two restaurants, and massages on the sand, the Beach Club has everything you need for that “never leaving” energy. Secrets Tulum isn’t just a getaway—it’s the glow-up your girls’ trip deserves.
FREDERICKSBURG TEXAS: A HIDDEN GEM FOR HONEYMOONERS
BY ZENAH AL-NAIMI
The honeymoon is the one event that the bride and groom participate in completely by themselves as a new couple. All the hustle and bustle leading up to the big day, almost always follows with a romantic and relaxed getaway for two. That’s why when most couples think of honeymoon destinations, they think of the sunny beaches of Hawaii or the romantic streets of Paris. But nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country lies a charming, looked over retreat that offers newlyweds a perfect blend of romance, relaxation and rustic, German/ Texas charm: Fredericksburg, Texas.
Fredericksburg isn’t your typical honeymoon destination and that’s exactly what makes it a gem. Rich in German heritage, surrounded by vineyards and breathtaking natural scenery, like the Wildflower farms, Fredericksburg offers a more intimate escape for couples looking to unwind and connect. Described by its locals as an authentic Texas- German community, Fredericksburg is also known for its renowned boutiques, award winning wineries and unique lodging and much more. Whether you are sipping local wine at a picturesque vineyard or relaxing in a private retreat surrounded by the sounds and smells of nature, Fredericksburg has everything couples need to unwind and celebrate their new journey.
I had the pleasure of staying in standout and unique accommodations called the Onera, a lodging vacation rental that redefines glamping and romantic getaways. Located minutes from Main Street, Onera combines luxury design with the feel of a cabin in the woods. Couples can choose from unique lodgings like treetop suites or elevated cabins. Take a dip in the community pool or enjoy an evening in your private hot tub located on your deck. My favorite part of staying here was waking up early in the morning and sipping coffee and seeing deer right outside my window. These picturesque views make for an unforgettable honeymoon morning.
COURTESY PHOTOS
For the couple that prefers a mix of classic elegance and boutique charm, check out the Albert Hotel. Located in the heart of downtown Fredericksburg, Albert offers a blend of modern architecture and sophistication. With thoughtfully designed rooms, lush gardens, courtyards and pool and lounge that resemble Jacobs Well, a popular natural swimming hole in the area, the hotel sets the tone for romance. The hotel also has its own restaurant that offers seasonal menus that have a connection to the land. The culinary program, which is led by Executive Chef Michael Fojtasek, a MICHELIN start recipient, is sure to leave you full and satisfied. This hotel is ideal for couples who want to explore the town hand in hand.
Without a doubt, no honeymoon is complete without indulging in the area in which you are staying, wine culture. Prochnow Vineyard offers one of the most scenic experiences while you sip on their delicious wine. With stunning views of the Texas Hill Country, this family-owned vineyard is peaceful and inviting all the while being in a secluded area. Couples can enjoy wine tasting on the terrace, sample award-winning varietals and even take a walk through the vineyard rows at sunset. This photo- worthy setting captures the essences of Fredericksburg’s romantic charm.
Beyond the wineries and luxurious stays, Fredericksburg also has quaint shops and hiking trails like the trails at Enchanted Rock, perfect for the adventurous couples. Grab lunch at a local restaurant and shop till you drop. When you are done with shopping, hop
on the trolly for the Fredericksburg Tours and learn about the early German settlers that made the Hill Country and Fredericksburg area their home.
Whether you are soaking in a private hot tub under the stars at the Onera, savoring fine wine at Prochnow Vineyard or enjoying quiet mornings at the Albert Hotel, Fredericksburg wraps honeymooners in rustic elegance and warm hospitality. It is a place that allows romance to bloom as naturally as the Texas Wildflowers, a honeymoon destination you will cherish forever.
Essentials:
www.stayonera.com
www.prochnowvineyard.com
www.alberthotel.com
5802 Lynn Elliott Ln., College Station, TX
The Ultimate Bachelorette Getaway at Secrets the Vine Cancu Sip, Sun & Celebrate:
by Laurette Veres
It’s your final fling before the ring and few destinations rival the magic of Cancun. Less than two hours away from both Dallas and Houston, the powder-soft beaches, turquoise waters, and endless sunshine make this a must-do-destination. At the heart of it all, a resort that feels practically designed for a glamorous bachelorette escape: Secrets the Vine Cancun.
Why Secrets the Vine?
Set along Cancun’s famous Hotel Zone, Secrets the Vine is an adults-only, all-inclusive luxury resort that blends sleek, modern design with a lively, celebratory vibe. Brides-to-be and their squads will find it all here: chic suites with floor-to-ceiling views of the Caribbean, 24-hour room service, and an unlimited supply of cocktails.
Every corner of this glasswrapped property is Instagramworthy, from the sparkling infinity pools to the artful lobby wine wall. It’s a resort that knows how to keep things elevated,
yet fun—a perfect backdrop for memories you’ll relive long after the wedding.
Poolside Perfection
Secrets the Vine offers three infinity pools, each with its own personality. Want a lively afternoon with music, laughter, and frozen cocktails? Head to the main pool. Craving a quieter escape? Retreat to a private cabana and sip champagne in style. Wherever you land, attentive poolside service ensures the next round is never far away.
Sips, Bites and Daily Wine Tastings
With seven gourmet restaurants and over 4,000 wines housed in the Vine Bar’s stunning cellar, this resort takes dining and drinking to another level.
By day, snack on wood-fired pizzas or fresh ceviche between dips in the pool. By night, dress up for sushi at Dragons or handmade pasta at Nebbiolo Ristorante. But the signature experience every bachelorette group will love? The daily wine tasting in the lobby.
Each afternoon, sommeliers lead guests through a curated tasting of international vintages. It’s the perfect pre-dinner ritual—clinking glasses, swirling reds and whites, and making a toast to the brideto-be. (note: additional fees apply).
Spa Serenity Before the Big Day
Balance the fiesta with a little siesta. The Secrets Spa by Pevonia is an oasis of calm, offering hydrotherapy circuits, indulgent massages, facials, and bridal group packages. Be sure to arrive early to take full advantage of the hydrotherapy pools. Move from hot to cold and relax - this is a perk not found at many spas. Imagine your whole crew in plush robes, sipping champagne in between treatments—it’s the selfcare moment every bridal party needs.
Adventures On and Off the Resort
Cancun is a playground for fun-loving groups, and Secrets the Vine makes it easy to explore. Charter a catamaran
to Isla Mujeres, snorkel through coral reefs, or book a private excursion tailored to your group. Staying put? Take advantage of daily activities like mixology classes, tequila tastings, or a raucous game of beach volleyball.
Nightlife Done Right
Evenings sparkle here. Begin with a lobby wine tasting, then move into sunset cocktails on the terrace. If your group craves a night on the town, Cancun’s nightlife scene is legendary—think dancing under neon lights at Coco Bongo or sipping champagne in chic rooftop lounges. Prefer something more intimate? Ask the concierge to arrange a private beach bonfire under the stars.
The Perfect Bachelorette Itinerary
•Day 1: Arrive, sip your welcome cocktails, and spend the afternoon in a poolside cabana.
•Day 2: Spa treatments in the morning, followed by a catamaran cruise at sunset.
•Day 3: Poolside fun, lobby wine tasting, tequila session, and a big group dinner before heading downtown for dancing.
•Day 4: A leisurely brunch, final photos by the ocean, and one last round of mimosas.
Sidebars
Top 5 Instagram-Worthy Spots at Secrets the Vine 1.Lobby Wine Wall – A glittering backdrop for a squad toast.
2.Infinity Pools – Capture that turquoise water stretching endlessly into the horizon.
3.Beachfront Cabanas – Champagne, sunglasses, and palm trees—perfection.
4.Terrace at Sunset – Golden hour lighting makes group shots magical.
•Matching swimsuits or coverups for poolside group shots
•A fun sash or veil for the bride-to-be
•Lightweight dresses for breezy dinners
•SPF (lots of it!)
•Waterproof phone case for poolside selfies
•Extra storage on your phone—trust us, you’ll need it!
•Final Toast
For brides looking to combine sun, luxury, and just the right amount of wild, Secrets the Vine Cancun delivers the ultimate bachelorette getaway. From infinity pools and indulgent spa days to daily lobby wine tastings and unforgettable nightlife, every detail feels like a sparkling celebration leading up to “I do.”
Divine Destination Weddings & Honeymoons
HONEYMOONING IN DURANGO: Romance in the Rockies
Photos and story by Laurette M. Veres
If your idea of romance involves mountain air, cozy firesides, and a touch of adventure, Durango, Colorado, is calling your name. Tucked in the San Juan Mountains, this charming railroad town offers the perfect blend of history, luxury, and natural beauty—ideal for newlyweds ready to relax, explore, and celebrate their love.
Start your journey aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, winding through dramatic canyons and along the rushing Animas River. Then, dive into ancient history with a day trip to Mesa Verde National Park, where you can wander through centuries-old cliff dwellings and imagine the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people. It’s a humbling, awe-inspiring experience that adds depth to your romantic adventure.
Back in town, check into the historic Strater Hotel, where antique charm meets modern comfort. The hotel’s old-world ambiance, creaky wooden floors, and Victorian décor make it feel like a step back in time—especially when you join one of Durango’s ghost tours, which blend spooky tales with fascinating local lore.
When evening rolls around, head to the Bar D Chuckwagon for a classic Western dinner show under the stars. With hearty cowboy fare, live music, and plenty of laughter, it’s a night you’ll remember long after the honeymoon ends.
And for the perfect dose of relaxation, slip away to Durango Hot Springs, where mineral-rich pools melt away the stress of wedding planning. Whether you’re soaking beneath the stars or sharing a quiet moment in the mountain air, it’s pure bliss.
From ancient ruins to mountain railways, spirited ghost stories to starlit soaks, Durango offers a honeymoon that’s as unforgettable as your love story—authentic, adventurous, and beautifully timeless.
130
www.theengagementboutique.com
@theengagementboutique
@theengagementboutique
Photo credits: Elle Belle
Branding, Swish & Click, RKM Photography
WHY LAKE GENEVA IS PERFECT FOR WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS
THE MIDWEST’S HIDDEN GEM FOR UNFORGETTABLE MILESTONES
BY LAURA MARCHAND
For couples looking for a wedding destination that combines elegance with intimacy, or newlyweds searching for a perfect honeymoon spot that isn’t your typical beach or mountain resort, look no further. Offering a great mix of romance, relaxation, and adventure; Lake Geneva is a surprisingly beautiful choice, providing the best of both worlds.
For couples seeking a wedding destination or honeymoon retreat that offers something different from the
tropics or mountains, Lake Geneva is a classic choice. Each season transforms the lakeside town into a new experience, blending romance, charm, and natural beauty in a way that feels both intimate and memorable. Lake Geneva isn’t just seasonal; it’s timeless. Every time of year brings its own beauty, from blooms and breezes to golden leaves and snowy nights. For couples looking for a destination that celebrates love all year round, Lake Geneva offers a continuous invitation to romance.
Every property on and near the lake provides a unique setting, from ballrooms with sweeping views of the water to terraces overlooking golf courses and boutique hotels downtown that exude historic charm. Whether couples imagine a grand celebration in a spacious ballroom or an intimate gathering with a dockside wedding at sunset, Lake Geneva truly delivers.
The dining is just as memorable. From nine-course meals at Lake Lawn Resort to heartland cuisine at 1878 on the Lake and seasonal farm-to-table menus, culinary excellence is a hidden cornerstone of the Lake Geneva experience.
The scenery adds to the romance, with sunsets over the water, manicured gardens, and the iconic 21.9-mile shore path offering endless photo opportunities. For honeymooners, boat rides and wine tastings add a perfect touch of charm.
Beyond the wedding day, couples can turn their trip into a mini-honeymoon without ever leaving town. Spas, zip lining, historic tours, and a visit to Yerkes Observatory provide plenty of activities to round out the celebration.
For those seeking something different from a traditional honeymoon, Lake Geneva offers lakefront beauty, small-town warmth, and a timeless charm that make it an unforgettable destination for weddings and honeymoons alike.
It is an alternative to Beaches or Mountains for those who want something different from the tropics or ski towns. Lake Geneva offers lakefront beauty, small-town charm, and Midwest warmth.
At Baby Cakes Couture Bakery, we believe that a wedding cake is more than just a dessert it’s a centerpiece of celebration, a sweet expression of love, and a reflection of your unique style Our expert baker and cake artist crafts stunning wedding cakes that are as delicious as they are breathtaking
