Whether you’re planning a grand wedding fit for royalty, or an intimate affair for just two, a service on Bora Bora’s silky shores will undoubtedly leave you with lasting memories – in spite of having to recite the legal vows before you leave home.  Although the Tahitian ceremony is not recognized in North America, this time-honored Polynesian ritual is an enchanting way of affirming the ‘I do’s.’

Picture this scene: A sugar-white beach washed by the turquoise surf, a breathtaking backdrop of steep jungle-draped hills, and an evening sky swathed in crimson colors from the setting sun. In the foreground, native villagers dance to the beat of rhythmic drums and sing songs in their Mother tongue. They wear tropical attire and decorative headdresses, ceremonial apparel that is only modeled during special events. Taking centre stage is the reason why. All eyes are focused on the bride-to-be. The stunning beauty is dressed in a Polynesian pareos and looks just like a Tahitian princess.

This serenading is a warm up of things to come, a prelude to the big event. After a short time, all attention moves to the water’s edge where the groom arrives on an outrigger canoe. He, too, is dressed in colorful garb, and after disembarking the craft, joins his chosen love at a flower-laden alter. The warm breeze embraces the two and while love songs are played softly in the background, a Polynesian wedding coordinator blesses their union. They are baptized with special Tahitian names and draped in a traditional wedding quilt, known as a tifaifai. A special marriage certificate accompanies photos, the couple is showered by tropical flowers and leis, and after all is said and done, a bottle of bubbly is de-corked to toast the couple’s happiness. What a captivating and unforgettable way to celebrate togetherness!

Although this Polynesian process is la crème de la crème when it comes to wedding packages, smaller (and less costly) versions can easily be arranged. A number of Tahitian properties offer the mix and match method to suit every need and budget. Here are just a few that will not only provide an enthralling alter, but will tempt you afterwards with their honeymooning havens.

InterContinental Resort Tahiti

This lush thirty-acre Polynesian-style property is filled with lots of luxuries for time-rich lovers. As well as splashing around on the silky shoreline, there are two horizon pools, a scuba diving centre and enough water sports to keep any aquatic hound happy. The private decks of thatched-roof bungalows veer over the shimmering shoreline and as well as offering a quick dip, tantalize with their interior treasures. The canopy-draped king bed is just one of the features that will lure honeymooners inside these hideaways. Whether it’s one of these luxury lodgings or a handsomely designed guest suite, all two hundred and sixty five accommodations are sure to please with their pampering perks.

 http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/

InterContinental Resort & Spa Moorea

This sister hotel (to the above) has also figured out the recipe to attracting love bugs. As well as the same treasures discovered at her sibling Tahiti resort, this island paradise pampers its guests with its Hélène Spa. Many of the treatments offered at this holistic haven are derived from indigenous plants, flowers and fruits.

http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/

Sheraton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa

Rising up from nearby shores is this next palatial wonder –and another property where more spa denizens hang out. As the name implies, the Mandera Spa is all about the quest to find the elixir of immortality and eternal truth.



Based on treatments like the two-hour Moorea Indulgence, Bali Coffee Scrub and Balinese Blessing, it sounds like they may have been successful in meeting this challenge. Lovers will also find sublime sensations in the encompassing Polynesian-styled abodes.

http://www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/property/features/index.html?propertyID=1332

Bora Bora Lagoon Resorts

Looking for a little elegance, top notch amenities and a pristine lagoon outlook? This heaven-sent haven is linked to the Orient Express Hotels, and like the other properties in this chain, is recognized for having all the bells and whistles. After a recent million dollar reno, it shimmers with brilliance on Bora Bora’s Motu Toopua Lagoon.



A new horizon pool integrates seamlessly with the clear turquoise sea, a tree top spa hides in the shade of a centuries-old banyon tree, and brand new villas boast their own private plunge pools. You can even maintain your pre-wedding weight with a workout at either the fitness centre or tennis courts!

http://www.orient-express.com/web/obor/obor_a1a_splash.jsp

Hotel Bora Bora

Although I haven’t intentionally saved the best till last, this property has been rated as one of Tahiti’s most luxurious resorts on a number of occasions. Maybe it’s because it was the first major hotel on this island paradise. Or possibly it’s due to the high standards and spectacular setting. Whatever the reason, there are a number of romance enticers to keep couples content. Tahitian villas (fares) dot the palatial grounds and host cuddle-loving canopy beds and their own private swimming pools. Over the water bungalows string out from the virgin white shores like strands of pearls and boast their own private pleasures.





Tahitian villas (fares) dot the palatial grounds and host cuddle-loving canopy beds and their own private swimming pools. Over the water bungalows string out from the virgin white shores like strands of pearls and boast their own private pleasures. You can tack together while sailing a sabot, or check out the undersea metropolis while cloaked in snorkeling gear, and when hunger pangs hit, try a candlelight dinner at one of the many culinary options.

http://www.amanresorts.com/bora/home.htm  

The South Pacific islands of Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora have often been referred to as paradise. They are located below Hawaii and halfway between the continents of Australia and South America and are one of the island groups that constitute French Polynesia.

It was on these same sandy shores that the crew of the H.M.S. Bounty chose to remain following the infamous mutiny. This was also the destination where the acclaimed artist, Paul Gauguin created his masterpieces. And years later, after being so captivated by Tahiti’s beauty, it was here where actor, Marlon Brando, decided to purchase his own private island. So, it stands to good reason that this romantic destination may also be your chosen spot to tie the wedded knot!