1 October survivors marry on the one-year anniversary of the tragedy, hold their reception at Tahiti Village!

We congratulate Todd and Oshia Wienke, 1 October survivors, on their wedding and thank for choosing Tahiti Village for the reception. We also thank all our vendors who helped make the day a special one for the bridge and groom. They include Cake Azure, Bacardi, Johnson Brothers, Patron, US Foods, Lamb Weston, Good Vibrations, A'Kaya Party Rentals and On Demand Sedan. Special thanks to Las Vegas country singer Sam Riddle, who attended the reception and performed "Vegas Strong" among other songs. It was a wonderful event and we wish the bridge and groom many years of happiness together.
We congratulate 1 October survivors Todd Wienke and Oshia Collins-Waters, who married in Las Vegas on the one-year anniversary of the tragedy and held their reception with us at Tahiti Village. We also thank all our vendors who contributed to their special day. They include Cake Azure, Bacardi, Johnson Brothers, Patron, US Foods, Lamb Weston, Good Vibrations, A’Kaya Party Rentals and On Demand Sedan. A special shout out goes to Las Vegas country singer Sam Riddle, who attended the reception and performed “Vegas Strong” among other songs. It was a wonderful event and we wish the bride and groom many years of happiness together.
Woman crying tears of joy after proposal.

Popping the Question in Las Vegas: The Best Proposal Ideas

Has Cupid struck you with his arrow? Valentine’s Day always has been and always will be a popular time for proposals. However, proposing on Valentine’s Day can be difficult because it’s a precarious balance. On one hand, it’s the most romantic day of the year and there’s no better way to celebrate your love than with a proposal. On the other hand, Valentine’s Day has a reputation for being a little cliche or cheesy if it isn’t done right. If you’re planning on giving your partner something even sweeter than chocolates this Valentine’s Day,  we’ve got eight Las Vegas proposal ideas to help sweep them off their feet!

Find the proposal that perfectly matches your loved one below:

For the Adventurer:

  • Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride: Rise and shine! A sunrise hot air balloon ride (priced from $199) is perfect for early birds! This package includes a one hour ride, champagne breakfast with light hors d’oeuvres, and unobstructed views of the Strip, Red Rock Canyon, and surrounding mountains. No doubt, this Vegas proposal idea will leave you both on cloud nine.

Hot air balloon in the sky.

  • The Top of the World Restaurant: Take your relationship to new heights, literally. 844 feet in the air to be exact! While there are an abundance of fine dining restaurants with extraordinary views of the strip, The Top of the World at Stratosphere Tower is a step above the rest.  Voted “The Most Romantic Restaurant in Las Vegas”, this hot spot features an unparalleled, rotating 360 degree view. Combined with the impressive international menu developed by “Chopped” chef Rick Giffen, dinner at The Top of the World is sure to be an evening to remember. The introductory Romance Proposal Package starts at $185 (plus tax and gratuity).

Top of the World restaurant at the Stratosphere in Las Vegas.

For the Die-Hard Vegas Fan:

  • Bellagio Fountains: It’s a rarity to find anything that is free on the Strip, but the Bellagio Fountains are both free and beautiful! Considering that, it’s no wonder why they are one of the biggest and most popular attractions in Vegas, especially when it comes to Las Vegas proposal ideas. But beware, getting a prime viewing spot at night may be difficult. Planning a proposal at this spot is also sure to come with countless spectators. If you’re adamant for a Las Vegas proposal that allows you to feel the mist of the fountains on your face, you should time with the Bellagio Fountain showtimes. Crowds often gather before the start of a show, which is every half hour during the day (3 to 8PM) and every 15 minutes at night (8PM to midnight). If you’re hoping for a Bellagio Fountain proposal without the crowds, consider splurging for a Bellagio room with a fountain view.

Fountain Show at the Bellagio in Las Vegas.

For the Nature Lover:

  • Bellagio Conservatory Gardens: If your loved one prefers something more serene and tranquil, get down on one knee at the stunning Bellagio Conservatory Gardens, an ever-changing 14,000-square-foot floral playground. This is a perfect spot if your significant other loves to walk around and see the colorful sights of Las Vegas. Start by suggesting a stroll through the famed hotels to see the stunning architecture and design of Las Vegas, then end your walk at the Bellagio Gardens and pop the question! We suggest going early in the morning or late at night if you want to avoid crowds.

Bellagio Conservatory Gardens.

  • Red Rock Canyon: If the Strip doesn’t strike your fancy for a Las Vegas proposal, go off the grid at Red Rock Canyon. Bike ride proposals are a popular choice, especially when paired with a picnic lunch. We recommend starting at sunrise and bringing lots of water, especially during the warm season. Avid mountain bikers love the Cottonwood Valley Mountain Bike Loop while road cyclists are wowed by the paved loop at the Red Rock Conservation Area. If a bike ride isn’t up your alley, hike to a romantic viewpoint to get down on one knee. If you’re not sure where to go, McGhie’s private guided hiking and bike tours can help you plan out your route. Call ahead and a guide can suggest the best spot for a romantic desert proposal. If the scenery hasn’t already, a Red Rock Canyon proposal is sure to leave her breathless!

Red Rock Canyon in Las Vegas.

For the Foodie:

  • Bartolotta Ristorante di Mare at Wynn: If the way to your love’s heart is through their stomach, then consider the Wynn’s Bartolotta Ristorante di Mare. Award-winning Chef Paul Bartolotta knows Italian-Mediterranean fine dining. While the main dining floor is beautiful, call or place an online reservation for an intimate outdoor cabana table. Inspired by coastal dining in Italy, it’s safe to say that Bartolotta Ristorante di Mare and romance go hand in hand. Keep in mind, dinner hours are from 5:30 PM until 10:00 PM, so make your plans far in advance.

Exterior of Bartolotta restaurant.

For the Traveler:

  • The Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas: Nothing screams romance more than Valentine’s Day in Paris. And if you can’t bring her to the actual city of love, The Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas might be the next best thing. While it’s only half the height of the real Eiffel Tower in France, the Las Vegas version of this famed landmark doesn’t disappoint when searching for the best proposal locations in the city. One option is to suggest lunch at Mon Ami Gabi before taking a glass elevator ride up to the proposal spot. Another option is to pop the question first before dining at the Eiffel Tower Restaurant which offers a variety of packages and enhancements.

Paris Las Vegas Hotel and Casino.

For the Introvert:

  • A Suite Proposal: Consider sending your partner out on a Las Vegas scavenger hunt or on a shopping trip to get them out of the hotel room. When they return, make sure the mood is set – lights down low with a mix of your significant other’s favorite love songs playing softly in the background. Make a trail of flameless candles or rose petals that leads to you, a ring, and a bottle of champagne. That way you can pop the bubbly after popping the question!

Rose pedals on the bed.

The most important thing to keep in mind when you are proposing is that, in the end, it’s simply about the two of you. How and when your proposal happens should be a direct reflection of your loved one’s preferences and your history together. Let Tahiti Village help you brainstorm romantic ideas and allow this Valentine’s Day to be the start of a new chapter in your fairytale.

Man and wife posing for picture after the ceremony.

Getting Married in Vegas: Best Wedding Venues in Las Vegas

Vegas is the ultimate vacation destination for extravagant entertainment, hospitality, and dining, all of which make Las Vegas the ultimate wedding destination. Getting married in Vegas doesn’t just mean eloping and getting married by Elvis (though, that certainly is a memorable way to give your nuptial vows). From the classic wedding chapel to helicopter rides, there’s something for every couple to have the perfect Las Vegas wedding ceremony.

In 2017, Clark County issued just over 78,000 marriage licenses, creating a high demand for wedding venues on and off the Strip. With so many options to choose from, it can be daunting planning a Vegas wedding.

To make it easier, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite off-Strip wedding venues for traditionalists and adventurers alike.

Traditionally Vegas:

Graceland Wedding Chapel

Graceland Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas.

We’re starting off the list with the most iconic of Vegas weddings. There’s no denying the allure of having the King himself attending your ceremony, and Graceland provides this unique opportunity. The chapel offers a variety of Las Vegas wedding packages, ranging from traditional to Elvis-studded. Depending on which you and your beloved choose, you can have Elvis performing during your “I do’s” wearing gold lace or sequins. If simple is more your speed, the chapel’s traditional wedding packages are perfect for low-key and intimate vows.

This Vegas wedding venue is certainly one to consider for those looking for an unforgettable, quirky, and unique experience on your big day. Get ready to have a blast, as it’s hard to help falling in love with this nuptial option –  whether you have an Elvis wedding or not!

Extravagant:

The Smith Center

In a city of glitz and glam, your big day should be equally as extravagant. The Smith Center for Performing Arts was designed to showcase an artistic spirit – which is exactly what your wedding ceremony will be at this beautiful venue. Art deco design keeps the space rich with style, making it a perfect setting for your vows. The center offers 10 breathtaking venues that can host nearly any size wedding party.

Put your love on display in Reynolds Hall, a 2,050-seat theater featuring balconies and a sweeping stage. Or, opt for an outdoor setting in The Courtyard, where guests can enjoy with fresh air with the backdrop of The Smith Center architecture. No matter which of their Las Vegas wedding venues fits your wedding best, your day is sure to be filled with beauty and elegance.

Stylish:

Sky View at Tahiti Village

Sky View dining at Tahiti Village in Las Vegas.

One of the most stylish ways to say “I do” is overlooking the Las Vegas Strip. The Sky View space at Tahiti Village offers breathtaking views of the city from the two 10th floor balconies. With a capacity of up to 60 guests, this intimate Las Vegas wedding venue is perfect for taking in the views while dancing the night away with loved ones

Celebrate in style with Tahiti Village Las Vegas wedding packages, where services include everything from elegant rose petals to unity sand ceremonies, all crafted to commemorate one of the biggest days of your lives. Luxury, style, and intimacy all meet under the Las Vegas sky.

Pro Tip: Plan a sunset wedding and have an awe-inspiring ceremony as the sun highlights your love. The vibrant Nevada landscape will be an unmatched background to your first kiss as a married couple.

Natural:

Botanical Gardens at Springs Preserve

Tie the knot in a setting as natural as your love. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the Strip, Springs Preserve offers beautiful trails, gardens, and landscapes to highlight the natural beauty of Nevada. Use this to your advantage and enjoy low-effort wedding decorations from the surrounding nature and architecture. Wooden, stone, and metal accents make the desert vegetation stand out, while also providing a simple backdrop to whatever wedding design you desire.

The Springs Preserve provides a range of options for your wedding ceremony, reception, and cocktail hour, all with unique features to make getting married in Vegas an all-natural experience. If taking a break from the flashing lights sounds right for you, these botanical gardens are the perfect wedding venue option for the rustic couple.

Adventurous:

Helicopter Wedding with Sundance Helicopters

Bride and groom getting ready to go for a helicopter ride.Take your vows off the Strip – and off the ground – with a Las Vegas helicopter wedding. Sundance Helicopters offers four Las Vegas wedding packages that include breathtaking aerial views of Nevada. Choose a simple City Lights flight that takes you over the Strip, or add to the majesty of your special day with desert sights of the Mojave Desert, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon, and more.

Soar on Cloud Nine on your wedding day by replacing red roses with a romantic red rock backdrop! Nothing compares to toasting your lifelong partner with champagne over one of Mother Nature’s most amazing creations. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is sure to create stunning wedding photos and memories that you and your sweetheart will cherish forever.

When planning your Las Vegas wedding, choosing the right venue will help make your day as special as possible. Getting married in Vegas is one of the most exciting ways to celebrate your love, and is sure to be the event of the year for you and your guests. Whether you’re an extravagant or simple couple, this city is the perfect place to start the rest of your life with the one you love. Say “I do” to one of these top wedding venues in Las Vegas off the Strip!

Couple enjoying a drink together after their wedding.

The Ultimate Checklist for Planning the Perfect Vegas Wedding

If you’re reading this, congratulations! Hopefully you and your soon-to-be-spouse are enjoying a blissful engagement and are preparing for your big day. Your head is likely already swimming with all the fun (and occasional stress) that goes into planning a wedding. Flowers, dresses, bridesmaids, the list goes on. Luckily, we have compiled the ultimate wedding planning  checklist for the perfect Vegas wedding. Las Vegas is a beautiful place to get married year-round and with some proactive planning, you can be sure to have the wedding of your dreams.

Picture of Mr and Mrs wedding rings.

In thinking about everything you have to do for your wedding, let’s break your needs down into different time periods. Huffington Post and Wedding Paper Divas share that the most common engagement period is 13-18 months, so let’s get planning!

A Year or More Before the Wedding

Wedding venue set up for the reception.

After getting engaged, the first thing you’ll want to do is announce your engagement to family and friends! Let the well wishes roll in while you enjoy this exciting announcement.

The sooner the better for deciding on your wedding venue. Especially for a destination wedding like Las Vegas, venues fill up fast. No matter what you’re dreaming for your big day, Vegas has got you covered. You can get married at a golf resort, a flower garden, the desert, or even in a helicopter! For those that want to stick with more of a traditional vibe, Tahiti Village in Las Vegas offers a number of venues for weddings of all sizes.

In addition to booking your venue, consider the following about a year before the wedding:

-The size
-The date and time
-The style of ceremony (white tie affair, casual backyard get together)
-Who will officiate
-Your (rough) guest list
-Establish your wedding budget with your partner

Hopefully a year out, you have your date and venue picked out. Next, dive into the details.

Ten Months Before the Wedding

Center pieces for upcoming wedding.

Depending on your venue, you may have some of this planning already covered. Many spots will have their own caterers, decorations, resources, and more. But if not, ten months before the wedding you should:

-Consider your food and drinks (open bar, ticket bar, just wine and beer, etc.)
-Decide on your entertainment (DJ, live music, etc.)
-Think about the decor/color scheme
-Decide on your wedding party
-Research wedding professionals, including a photographer, videographer, DJ, florist, cake designer, and others
-Set up your registry and wedding website
-Research rentals (tables, chairs, china, etc.)
-Book suites for out-of-town guests
-Buy your wedding dress

When it comes to wedding planning, the devil is in the details. If you think you can handle it all on your own, go for it! But you may also consider hiring a wedding planner, especially as the date gets closer. You could even enlist the help of friends and family (they don’t call them bridesMAIDs for nothing!).

Six Months Before the Wedding

Bridal party posing for pictures.

By now, you should have a good idea of the guest list, have announced your wedding party, have your dress ordered, have your venue booked, and all major details like food and drinks should be locked down. It’s almost time to party! About six months before your wedding, you should:

-Book all professionals
-Order bridesmaid dresses
-Start planning your honeymoon
-Send out Save the Dates
-Order wedding rings
-Shop for tuxedos if needed

Especially for a Las Vegas destination wedding, make sure you send out your Save the Dates with enough time to allow guests to book their accommodations. More likely than not, they’re going to make a little vacation out of your wedding weekend, so give them time to plan their trip, too!

Three Months Before the Wedding

Bride getting her makeup done for the big day.

The nerves are getting real! It’s almost time to walk down the aisle and you almost have everything set. During this phase in your wedding planning checklist, the most important things to do are:

-Send out invitations
-Book hair and makeup artists for you and your bridal party
-Write your vows
-Apply for a marriage license (depending on the state, this timeline may differ)

One Month Before the Wedding

Bride getting into her wedding dress.

Now’s the time to get any last-minute things checked off your list before your short-term wedding planner or bridal party takes over! Make sure to:

-Write your vows, if you’re writing your own
-Get your final dress fitting
-Make sure your wedding party has all their outfits ready
-Confirm the details with vendors, including a final head count

The Week of and the Day of the Wedding

New husband and wife cutting into their cake at the reception.

Hopefully, with adequate planning you can sit back and relax the week before your wedding. Make sure to loop in any helpers and have them take care of the final details, like:

-Going through a practice run of the wedding processional and recessional during the rehearsal day/dinner
-Paying wedding professionals
-Getting everything ready for the ceremony, including all decor
-Setting up
-Picking up the cake

And finally, after all that preparation, it’s time to say “I do”! Enjoy your big day and all the hard work and love it took you to get to this moment, bask in newlywed bliss (and get used to saying “husband” or “wife”!), and enjoy the last moments of your Las Vegas wedding!

Couple enjoying taking pictures after their wedding.

2018 Wedding Trends to Consider for Your Vegas “I Do”

Planning your wedding can be one of the most exciting experiences, overshadowed only by the wedding day itself. Concocting a unique celebration can help your wedding reflect the personalities of you and your soon-to-be spouse. While traditional weddings will always hold a special place in our hearts, it’s fun to explore the seasonal wedding trends and 2018 will not disappoint. From interactive invitations to creative ceremony setups, this season is full of fun and funky trends to inspire new brides.

Take a look at some of our favorite wedding trends to prepare ahead of time for your Spring 2018 wedding:

Intricate Invites

“Wow” your guests from the start with creative Save the Dates and invitations. In Spring 2018, anything goes. Think beyond the envelope when you’re brainstorming your invite ideas. This is a great time to hint at your theme, express your personality, have fun with it, and be creative! Some standouts for this season include plexiglass invites, invites with multiple pieces, and interactive invites (think glow in the dark and scratch-off).

Different versions of wedding invitations.

Outdoorsy Locations

In 2018 wedding trends, more brides will be opting for an al-fresco style celebration, whether that means having the ceremony or reception outside or bringing the outside indoors with flowers and foliage. Here are a few outdoorsy venues that will dominate this year’s wedding trends:

Barns or Ranches Barn and ranch weddings are the perfect settings for couples seeking that rustic feel. Legends Ranch in Vegas is the perfect example of how charming these country-style wedding venues can be.

The Desert The gorgeous landscape and prime weather of the desert make it a convenient and romantic spot to share your nuptials. The mild, predictable weather makes it easy to host the event outdoors. Check out Scenic Las Vegas Weddings for location options.

The Beach or Lake The popularity of beach weddings is nothing new. The cool breeze, the soft sand, the pure sunshine… It’s no wonder why this location is a forever favorite! Getting married by the water can be majestic. Lakeside Weddings in Las Vegas can make your waterfront wedding dreams come true with supportive staff and multiple location options.

A Garden What better place to get married than among the lush foliage of a garden? Garden venues, like RainbowGardens of Las Vegas, offer a sophisticated and naturally beautiful atmosphere.

An Adventurous Venue Another wedding location trend is hosting your wedding in a wild, unique destination, like amidst the beauty of Red Rock Canyon or aboard a helicopter. Flip the stuffy suit and tie wedding on its head with a ceremony both you and your guests are sure to remember!

Couple enjoying an outdoor wedding.

Games for Guests

From corn hole to giant Jenga, wedding games are becoming increasingly popular – and for good reason! Since guests traditionally sit during the ceremony, they want to be active and on the move at the reception. Fun games are also the perfect way to break the ice between guests and set a fun, casual atmosphere.

Corn-hole set for games at a wedding.

The Circular Aisle

Though traditional aisles will always be popular, couples are starting to experiment with isle shape as one of the newest wedding trends. A notable trend is the circular aisle. This shape gives each guest a close-up-and-personal view of the ceremony and ensures that everyone hears you say “I do”. The circular aisle also adds a nice visual to the wedding with the spiral effect, resulting in some amazing photos.

Circular setup for a wedding ceremony.

Backless Dresses

This elegant trend is perfect for the warm weather bride. The lower cut back adds a graceful, sensual touch to the look while still being comfortable. If you’re planning on hosting your celebration in Vegas, a backless dress is the perfect option for keeping you both cool and stylish. Check out Couture Bride in Las Vegas to find your perfect dress!

Bride in a backless wedding dress.

Photo Booths and Portrait/Caricature Stations

Another trend on the rise for your upcoming Spring wedding is the incorporation of photo booths and portrait stations. This trend is especially popular amongst guests because it simultaneously provides them with a personalized souvenir and gives them a fun activity to do with friends. Photo booths can be rented by the hour and are usually delivered by the rental company, making it a stress-free addition. Portrait or caricature stations are a more traditional approach and include an artist ready to create a work of art for guests!

New man and wife enjoying the photo booth at their wedding.

Interactive Foods

2018 weddings are straying from the idea that dinners have to be served seated and in a formal setting. Instead, couples are opting for more casual dining options including food trucks, family-style options, and fun display set-ups. In Vegas, a variety of food trucks can be rented at Roaming Hunger. Guests love to create their own concoctions, so you could include a pasta bar, make-your-own taco station, or ice cream sundae setup!

Newest trend, food truck at couple's wedding.

Desert Themes

Whether it’s the gorgeous watercolor landscape or the optimal temperatures, desert weddings are on the rise in 2018. We all know that cacti were trending in 2017 and that trend seems to have made desert destinations popular by association. No matter the reason, these hot and gorgeous weddings are on every soon-to-be-bride’s radar.

Bride posing for a photo at her desert themed wedding.

Though traditional weddings will always be their own kind of beautiful, there’s something exciting about trying out the latest trends. From interactive invitations to unconventional dining options to fun photo booths, it’s safe to say that this year’s trends challenge tradition and push boundaries. Your wedding day should be a reflection of both of your personalities and these 2018 wedding trends may help you achieve just that!