By Sade Awe, Founder of The Bridal Circle

It seems I have been hearing about the Bahamas and One&Only Ocean Club forever and ever, so when the lovely Anna Schmid came knocking on my door (not literally!), I put things in place to make this long-awaited trip happen and just like that, voilá!, I was transported to the Bahamas and the luxurious One & Only Ocean Club located on Paradise Island.

I truly believe I experienced Paradise. Being there made me want to get married all over again, but this time on this perfectly serene island!  With the ocean before me and the breeze whispering sweet nothings in my ear, there are no words to express how I felt and what I saw.

As I gazed out of the my window on the plane, it was love at first sight.  The beautiful clear waters were so inviting I couldn’t wait to land! Then, we touched down at the Nassau International Airport and I was warmly welcomed to the Bahamas, along with everyone else on the plane.  A live band in customs played local music and immediately set me at ease.  That was certainly a first for me, as I have gone through customs numerous times all over the world and the atmosphere is usually serious and strict.  Going through customs was a breeze. A private car awaited me, compliments of the lovely Anna Schmid of One & Only.  Anna had arranged everything perfectly and my stay was well-orchestrated.

As I was driven through the beautiful island, I was struck with the love bug… perfect weather, placid blue skies and air so fresh I drank it in deeply.  I was in love. We arrived at the Ocean Club, Bahamas, gates and I felt like I was living the video I had watched numerous times, wondering what the experience would be like.

‘Ahhhh’ is all I could say as I was greeted by the lovely staff at the well-appointed colonial-style Plantation House, and was told my personal butler would take me to my room.  I received a personal check-in with my credit card in my room.  Talk about no hassle!  That’s what I call detailed service.

My room was so inviting!  A big basket of fresh fruit, champagne, freshly squeezed lemonade and some appetizers awaited my arrival.  The first thing that struck me was the wall to wall view of the ocean and my huge veranda.  I did not want to leave my room! It was truly Paradise.

I spent the next four days relaxing, exploring the beautiful property dining and having the time of my life!  Being the spa-addict that I am, I always make it a point to go, no matter where I travel.  Entering the spa in the stunning Balinese-style villa was like entering into my own private oasis. My personal masseuse directed me through this mini-world that had a waterfall shower, an open garden and what seems like a suspended day bed and a jetted tub. What a pleasurable experience and the most perfect experience for a bride and groom.

One & Only Ocean Club offers myriad perfect spots to get married.  There are the terraced steps of the Versailles – inspired gardens overlooking One & Only Ocean Club.  I walked every morning outside of the property but always ended up simply basking in the beautiful scenery. I would get married here with my friends and family gathered around me in a heartbeat.  It’s simply perfect.

The cuisine was an experience all its own!  The dining options at One & Only Ocean Club are stellar, featuring the delightfully inspired cuisine of chef Jean-George Vongerichten. At the Dune Restaurant, I dined on lobster and plantains with sweet rice.  Simply to die for!  I enjoyed a meal at the garden terrace as well.  So many deliciously picturesque spots, and so little time!

To say the least, my trip to the One & Only Ocean Club was beyond even my expectations.  The simple elegance and sophistication of the property, the detailed attention of the staff and the ease with which the entire experience was orchestrated left me eagerly anticipating my next Bahamian escape.  In addition to relaxation and rejuvenation, the Club offers tennis, world-class golf, a spa and water sports galore including snorkeling, wind-surfing and more.  Effortlessly romantic though it is, the One & Only Ocean Club offers residential-style villas for couples and families alike.  Come away to the One & Only Ocean Club and you’ll find yourself wishing life away until you can return to Paradise!

Thank you, Anna Schmid and the amazing team at the One & Only Ocean Club, Bahamas, for giving me a taste of paradise and a wonderful experience at your serene and beautiful resort!

XOXO

Sade Awe, Founder and Editor-in-Chief

The Bridal Circle