Part 1: A Bride's Destination Wedding Paradise at the Fairmont Kea Lani

By Si Si Penaloza, Editorial Director WOMAN.ca

Maui. The Ultimate Romantic Island Getaway. What a wealth of optimistic nuance is concealed in such innocent little motifs: candles, champagne, sunsets, moonlight, swooning Sade on an iPod dock. All things leading inexorably to the bedroom where - freed from domestic shackles - elemental lovemaking on a par with an episode of the Tudors will make you forget you ever had kids. No wonder many men quiver in disdain at the very word romance. High expectations are not something that most males welcome from their girlfriends.

Maui is the only romantic island that seems to strike the perfect chord for both men and women. Perhaps that's because there's so much for an active couple to do. Today's couples have greater expectations than ever: stylish surroundings, friendly staff, top-notch service, notable food and drink. Hunting down chic cribs that tick all those boxes is a tall order.

The Fairmont Kei Lani is a love affair between the perfect surfside location and the most gracious good living to be found in Maui. The Wailea nabe has long been celebrated as the most aesthetically pleasing hub of this sunkissed isle. As unassuming and discreet as it may appear from the outside, this top drawer hotel exudes style, privacy and sophistication. The sense you're staying not in a hotel but a private residence is most apparent at check-in, or the lack of it. The Fairmont Kea Lani has done away with the conventional bowl-of-candy style reception desk and has opted for a more personal approach.

Climb winding roads ripe for James Bond car chases, through the leafy hillside outskirts of upscale Wailea and you'll find the Fairmont Kea Lani on the most prestigious stretch of beach on the island. Star outdoor features: sun loungers with plump fluffy towels, and a simply fantastic pool.

From the moment you enter the magnificent open air lobby, one notices that everything is carefully considered - from fresh orchids in imaginative vessels to strategically placed chaise lounges. An incredible collection of distinctive furniture beneath vaulted domed ceilings create an environment of pure decadence. It's not surprising, then, that bedrooms here are very sexy. Big, cushion-laden, puffy beds with luxurious coverings take your breath away.

The Fairmont's Spa Kea Lani offers decadent signiture experiences in a hushed environment. We highly recommend the well-trained therapists on staff at this spa - simply tremendous. In addition, the onsite Juvenal's Hair Salon is a must for Maui Brides. This is one of the best kept secrets on the island. Juvenal does the very best in bridal hair on the island, full stop. Featuring hair designs, manicures and pedicures, make-up, wedding services, hair warps and braids - this one salon can glam up your entire wedding party on the big day, getting each delegate looking their very best.

The intimate dinner is a cornerstone of the perfect trip away, and the Fairmont Kei Lani has the most heavenly arrangement: private poolside cabanas where couples can enjoy incredible plantation-inspired cuisine. K? offers cuisine reflective of the many cultures of Hawaii's sugarcane plantation era. The menu is inspired by the rich history and culinary traditions of Hawaiian, Chinese, Filipino, Portuguese, Korean, and Japanese cultures. K?, meaning sugarcane in Hawaiian, features Ahi On the Rock, sashimi spiced with orange ginger miso sauce, Lobster Tempura with spicy-sesame, pineapple sweet chili garlic and grapefruit soy sauce.

We highly recommend Maui Cattle Company Paniolo Rib-Eye Steak and Coconut-Curry Lamb Chops marinated and grilled with mango-mint salsa. Each dish celebrates the cultures of the plantation workers with an emphasis on sustainability.

Book now and save with two great deals. FairmontSAVERS 30% off discounted rates or stay longer and truly experience the luxury of The Fairmont Kea Lani with our Fifth Night Free Promotion.

Couples will enjoy the Kea Lani Romance Package which includes a private dinner, sunset cruise, spa treatments and more. If your primary focus is to relax while on vacation, the Ho'onanea Spa Package featuring four spa treatments and breakfast every day is fabulous. Looking for fun activities? Try the Suite Ride Car Package so you can drive off and take in the wonderful sights of Maui.