Say “Si” in Mexico

Say “Si” in Mexico. There are so many great wedding venues with beachfront views view and sandy beaches. Check out the latest issue of Destination IDO & Honeymoons magazine. Two of my favorites Mexican wedding resorts are the Royalton Riveria Maya Hotel and Mahekal Beach Resort 

Gail Johnson Weddings & Events, es una empresa dedicada a la planeación, diseño y coordinación de eventos y bodas destino (Translation: It is a company dedicated to the planning, design and coordination of events and destination weddings).

Mahekal Beach Resort, your magical moment begins on a white, sandy path adorned with crimson rose petals. There simply is not a more magical backdrop for your Playa del Carmen wedding than the turquoise waters, supple sand and lush vegetation surrounding Mahekal BeachResort. The turquoise sea rises to greet you and your groom. Enchanting birds call out from the tropical palm trees with their songs of approval. This is the wedding you have always dreamed of; this is a Mahekal Beach Resort wedding.

The stylish rooms and bungalows (no TVs) feature terraces or balconies with hammocks, as well as free Wi-Fi, safes and sitting areas. Those on the beach add private plunge pools, and adults-only penthouses have outdoor showers and canopy beds. Room service is available. Breakfast and dinner are included and there are 2 restaurants and 3 bars. Additional amenities include 2 outdoor pools, a hot tub, private beach and dive center, plus event space. 

Royalton Riveria Cancun exclusive All-In Luxury™ concept is devoted to providing guests with a unique vacation experience, masterfully blending the Yucatan Peninsula’s unique culture with a luxury product that features top quality service, and great attention to detail. Dedicated and friendly staff, an incredible Puerto Morelos location, top-notch dining venues, wonderful destination wedding packages , spacious rooms and suites, a fitness facility, and great all-inclusive services are sure to enhance your luxury vacation experience.

Tie the knot at the Royalton Riviera Cancun. What could be more beautiful than marrying your true love in paradise? Our luxury resort is designed to make your destination wedding truly unique, and help you create everlasting memories you will cherish forever. Whether you're hosting an intimate family affair or a grand gala, weddings at our All-in Luxury™ resort are extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime events.

Happy New Year!! 2016 Here we Come...

Wow, I can't believe the year went by so fast - so long 2015....here we come 2016!

There were so many GREAT Weddings & Events in 2015 and vast experiences that opened my eyes to the world around me. I posted some of my goals for 2016, some not ALL and look forward to the journal that awaits.

Facebook Post:
"I'm saying goodbye to 2015 as I “reset” for 2016! I will be putting more focus on my personal development (yep, I took two years of Spanish at Spelman College and I’m returning to Emory in January 2016 to start my studies in Spanish - the goal - to become fluent. I am taking my biz to the next level as I pursue more destination weddings (preparing a contract today for a 2017 destination wedding - woohoo!) and feeling thankful for all of my clients (past and future) who have trusted me to plan their special day. Yes, there will be more family time with my biggest supporters. See ya in 2016! Happy New Year! pix Jessica Hatter Photography #wedgail#destinationweddings #dreambig #skyisthelimit"

Kate Spade - Just Married

Kate Spade is killing the Bridal Market with these killer purses, tees, totes, phone cover and more. One of my brides found a really cute Kate Spade guest book and cake stand that worked will with her wedding decor. Go to Kate Spade's website and check out these items and more.

Natural Hair - Janelle Monáe Wedding Style Inspiration

It is kinda funny how times changed and things run in cycles. When I was growing up, my mom refused to put chemicals in my hair (only natural styles). Now, natural hair is very much back in vogue. I have transition from chemicals (creamy crack) to healthier protective styles over the last few years. I also see my brides searching for hair styles, so I have pulled some pictures from my favorite Cover Girl Janelle Monae. I've met her super talented hair stylist and she even came into the salon when I was getting my hair done one day. Janelle is a very petite, gorgeous young lady with super style. I hope you are inspired by her gorgeous tresses.

A Charming Love Story at Omni Amelia Island - Day 2 Evening

This afternoon at the Omni Amelia island Plantation revolved around pool time, beach time and the spa before the evening reception. I had the best facial at the spa, it was an hour spent with much needed pampering. I could have stayed at the spa all day...the staff was so attentive and friendly. Later the staff turned up the fun - party central on the beach....I had so much fun at the interactive food stations. The DJ was so good and even joined us on the dance floor to bust a move! Talking about the perfect Day - this was it!

Pool time

Practicing my princess wave

Spa day - I could have stay here all day!

Omni Amelia Island Spa

Ceremony setup on the beach

Dinner Reception on the Beach

Soup Station

PRI tablescape 

Sweet potato & French fries station

Smoked tenderloin station

Wedding cake

Late evening Treat

A Charming Love Story at Omni Amelia Island - Day 2 Morning

Day 2 started with breakfast under the Oak trees overseeing the tennis court at the Racket Park. I started with glam shot in the hotel lobby - thanks Tami! I'm wearing my favorite Yellow Sun Dress from Anthro. Chef created so many speciality dishes that I'm still drooling. The tablescapes under the oak trees by PRI were truly breathtaking. Yep, I will coming back to Omni Amelia Island with my clients and family.

Hotel lobby

Mimosa and Fresh Squeezed juices

Chef doing this thing!

Fresh hot sauce made by Chef with my name - ohhh!

It doesn't get any better than this...

Talking with Tami

These are the largest cookies EVER!

Ok, the Pistachio was favorite flavor

Learning how to drive a Segway 

Shuttle on to lunch at the Greenhouse

Drink up!

Lunch in chef's greenhouse

Farm Table, Wheat Grass and variety of seating options 

Check out this bar

Lunch tables cape

Chicken cooked to perfection!

Berries, lemon curd and shortbread dessert

A Charming Love Story at Omni Amelia Island - Day 1 Evening

After everyone checked into their rooms and were refreshed, we were shuttled to the Marsh View Terrace & Walker's Landing. The resort is so large and options so vast that you can have your wedding or event in any number of locations on the property. PRI Decor showcase some out of the box decor and special touches - a few i may even steal - lol!

Lovely in the round ceremony set-up 

Entertainment provided for every event

Dress courtesy of Talk with Tami - thank you! 

Rustic, woodsy ceremony with twinkle lights

Cocktails and dinner

Custom name tags - adorable

Chef's presentation - oh....my.yummy

A Charming Love Story at Omni Amelia Island - Day 1 Morning

Omni Hotel Amelia Island Plantation - The best Cesar Salad with grilled Shrimp for lunch was fresh, tasting and seasoned to perfection. I was so lucky to have Talking with Tami hang with me. We never laughed or talked so much..we soaked up every bit of Florida sunshine.

Lunch at Oceanside - best shrimp salad

Me styling & profiling

Talking with Tami

I'm still on cloud nine after visiting the beautiful venue Omni Amelia Island Plantation. The staff
catered to our every needs from receiving red velvet cupcakes - a sweet surprise. And, let's talk about those Pandora charm bracelet and a special charm for each day. We were net by John, he was so funny, crazy and always there when you needed anything. The Omni is a hidden gem, there is so much to do and see - it was paradise. Wait until I continue this blog post about the staff - WOW! They are superstars and experts in the field - making every wedding and event unique.

Ryan greeted us as we arrive at the Jacksonville airport - he hung out with us and was so much fun

Our drive gave us a complete history of the island and hotel

Yep, my favorite cupcake - Red Velvet was waiting on me! 

View from my hotel balcony

My dream hotel room - complete with comfy bed

Pandora Charm Bracelet and Jewelry Tree