As one of the country’s southernmost cities, Houston’s culture is as Southern as it is Texan. And Houston to-be-weds, along with their families, have an affinity for the gracious hospitality, relaxed luxury and fabulous food and drink the South is known for. These three distinguished Southern destination properties welcome Houston couples and their loved ones to sip, dine, dance and say, “I do,” surrounded by regal decor, lush landscapes and iconic Southern scenes.
1. MONTAGE PALMETTO BLUFF
A classic country-chapel ceremony and total-escape resort celebration all in one? You can have your wedding cake and eat it, too, at the Montage Palmetto Bluff, located in the lush Lowcountry of South Carolina. Jack Nicklaus signature golf, sport shooting, yachting, equestrian activities and strolling through the extraordinary Palmetto Bluff Conservancy, are just a few of the innumerable things you and your guests can do at the Montage. But don’t tucker yourself out, to-be-wed. You’ll want to save energy for your “I do’s” in the picture-perfect May River Chapel, or the grand Somerset Chapel—both offering gorgeous views, and streams of South Carolina sunlight. For the ultimate in reception space, the 350-capacity Wilson Ballroom, named for the Wilson family—previous owners of Palmetto Bluff, and hosts of its most extravagant parties—features lavish interiors and romantic views of the property’s Grand Lawn. Smaller destination-wedding groups may gather in the cozy Wine Cellar, nautical-theme Canoe Club, in a tent on the historic Village Green, or in one of the many intimate indoor or outdoor venues at this undeniably Southern riverfront enclave.
2. NOPSI HOTEL NEW ORLEANS
Salamander Hotels’ NOLA property takes its name from the building’s history as the city’s former public utility and streetcar operator—but there’s nothing utilitarian about this fabulous New Orleans hotel. From the polished Jazz Age splendor of the magnificent NOPSI lobby, to the refined furnishings and decadent comfort of its 217 guest rooms and suites, this Central Business District beauty—located a short walk from the action of Bourbon Street—is a destination wedding dream come true. Your NOPSI weekend wedding might start with welcome cocktails (and outstanding city views) at Above The Grid, the hotel’s rooftop pool deck and bar. Guests may freely roam the nearby Arts District and famed French Quarter, or savor cocktails and classic Cajun and Creole dishes at Galatoire’s, Arnaud’s or one of the city’s ever-emerging dining hotspots. On the big day itself, the truly one-of-a-kind Dryades Ballroom will welcome you and your guests, with massive arched windows, exposed brick walls and a soaring 30-foot-high ceiling, accented with sparkling crystal chandeliers. For a private moment amidst your NOLA-style celebration, steal away to the respite of NOPSI’s charming Courtyard Patio, for an intimate kiss as newlyweds.
3. THE HENDERSON BEACH RESORT & SPA
Just a short flight from Houston lies a luxury seaside resort, where the classic elegance of decades past meets today’s modern conveniences and event design talent. We’re talking about The Henderson, located in the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast beach town of Destin, known for sugar-sand beaches and emerald gulf waters. Though a mere two years old, this stately luxury hotel has a comfortable, lived-in, Southern vibe, and feels like a home-away-from-home. Weddings at The Henderson are a true destination-celebration experience, where guests can lounge poolside, indulge in treatments at the property’s Salamander Spa (named for the Salamander Hotels group, which includes The Henderson), or cast their line in the pristine waters of the town widely known as “the world’s luckiest fishing village.” When it’s time to head down the aisle, couples can select their ceremony site from 10,000 square feet of event space, with stunning Gulf Coast views as their backdrop. Destination-wedding guests, honeymooners and bridal groups alike also can try out YOLO stand-up paddle-boarding, a helicopter tour of the Emerald Coast, and a visit to acclaimed Emeril’s Coastal Italian restaurant. The Henderson’s warm Southern hospitality, fabulous fresh cuisine, and incredible staff, make this a must-visit destination for dreamy weddings and pre-wedding spa getaways.
