The nerves and stress of the big day are over. Family and friends are en route home. Your parents are kvelling, while friends have memories of a lifetime.

Finally, it’s not about the wedding at all – it’s about the marriage, and it kicks off with a fabulous honeymoon. But where to go? Sure, there are tried-and-true, conventional honeymoon destinations, such as Hawaii, Las Vegas and California wine country.

However, the nation and the world have much more to offer as potential honeymoon destinations, and many are better depending on the season your first trip as newlyweds is planned. Just as planning well in advance is essential to a successful wedding, forethought should be applied when organizing your honeymoon too – and seasonality is a big part of that.

Spring

There’s really no getting around spring honeymoons without mentioning Paris, one of the most famed romantic cities in the world. Just remember that Paris is popular in spring. It bursts into astounding color as the winter recedes, drawing visitors from all over. Paris is so magical to most Americans that issues like where you stay and where you go to dine don’t much matter. Even the humblest accommodations will charm, and you don’t need to find any of the many Michelin-recognized restaurants to enjoy an exquisite meal. Paris’ vaunted cafe scene comes to life in the spring, and you will enjoy memorable meals at even the most humble bistros. Hint: Watch where many Parisians dine as a sure sign of culinary excellence. While in the city, should you wander far from your accommodations, don’t miss such obvious sites as The Louvre, the Eiffel Tower and Versailles Palace, if nothing else.

Rome is another wonderful spring vacation destination, in no small part because it is on the edge of the summer high season, so accessing attractions is easier than it would be a few months later. Rome’s history, beauty and architecture create an atmosphere of timeless romance, with delightful restaurants, cafes and shops around every corner as well as Romans who appreciate romance as much as the French. If you can tear yourself away from dining on some of the best food and wine on earth, you can decide which other aspects of Rome you might want to also enjoy. Choose from among historic sites and architecture, high-end shopping or the arts and culture. You can’t go wrong in any event – it’s entirely up to how you want to spend your time in public during your honeymoon.

Summer

Summer weddings are popular, particularly in states where summer is a mild time of year. Unfortunately, summer is also unbearably hot in some parts of the world, and no one wants to kick off their marriage soaked in perspiration.

London is ideal in the summer. Largely gone are the dreary, gray days with which London is synonymous. It will cost a premium for a summer visit, but, hey, this is a honeymoon, not a post-college travel adventure. Even in the busy season, you will find a host of different types of accommodations, from resort hotels to cozy and friendly bed-and-breakfast inns. Select based on your wants and needs. When out and about, you will definitely want to experience pub life in London, which can be found virtually anywhere and offers some of the city’s best indigenous cuisine. Must-see sites include Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, St. James Park and the British Museum, to name but a few. To fully experience the romantic ambiance, take a stroll along the South Bank of the Thames or take in the fantastic theater in London, arguably second only to the magic of Broadway.

For the more domestic travel-oriented, consider Cashiers in North Carolina. In recent years, it’s become a travelers’ favorite, and with temperatures some 20 degrees cooler than its lower-altitude neighbors, summer is a great time for a honeymoon. Here, the emphasis is on romance and privacy, but Cashiers’ singularly unique geography boasts hundreds of waterfalls, quiet lakes, stone mountains and amazingly beautiful forests. Accommodations range from friendly B&Bs to exquisite pampering, depending on what you’re looking for in a honeymoon experience. Still, a picnic in “The Heart Of The Blue Ridge Mountains” is hard to beat in terms of romance.

Fall

The cruelest season of all, a harbinger of the winter to follow, fall makes planning difficult since late summers and early winters can foil any plans.

Still, there are a few options that are deliciously appealing.

The mild weather cries out for a slightly off-season visit to the Amalfi Coast. In September or October, the water remains temperate and a prime attraction. From the Footpath of the Gods to Villa Rufolo, most attractions are open and less crowded than they are in the summer. Stretching along the southern side of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, the Amalfi coast dazzles with its mysterious grottos, craggy cliffs and shimmering bays. Grab a seat on the sea side of a regional bus to soak up views on the fabled route from artsy Positano to Amalfi, or take to the waterfront or eclectic shopping destinations to help make your honeymoon memories come alive for loved ones. The Amalfi Coast is an excellent way to get away from it all while also enjoying one of the most beautiful places on earth. Plan for a romantic stay, undisturbed by a host of activities, and enjoy the indescribable beauty of the Italian coast – and that of your newly acquired nuptials. 

If a domestic honeymoon is more to your liking, consider Tennessee’s Gatlinburg. The Smoky Mountain icon might be best known for shoulder-season skiing, but year-round it remains a beautiful American setting that is just low-key enough to be ideal for honeymoons. Small-town charm deep in the mountains is one appeal, complete with small shops and venues and a delicious lack of fuss. While you might not find many hotels with honeymoon-specific accommodations, you will find places for affordable stays – and plenty of warm people interested in hearing your personal story. While in town, climb to the top of the magnificent mountain and shop for local artisan crafts and Native American specialties. Here, the romance is in the spectacular outdoor locations, the solitude and a quaint Americana that will remain a fond memory for decades to come. 

Winter

Unless your idea of a romantic honeymoon is being snow-bound in a mountain cabin – which doesn’t sound bad to many – winter honeymoons can be tricky. There are travel delays, heavy snow and even more treacherous elements to deal with in various parts of the world.

You don’t have to worry about that in Palm Beach, north of Fort Lauderdale in Florida. The tony town is its most tolerable in winter, when the insects retreat to the Everglades and even mid-day temperatures are pleasant. There aren’t a ton of attractions here, so the emphasis on elegance and the waterfront is key. The Breakers is a one-stop destination for accommodations and activities, in addition to luxurious pampering and services. Terrific local theater and high-end shopping abound in what is the town’s high season, but don’t miss the action on Clematis Street or on the waterfront to experience the very best of Palm Beach.

If you’re looking to get out of the U.S. for your winter honeymoon, it’s the ideal time to visit the Caribbean. With more mild weather and no risk of hurricanes, it’s an ideal time to visit St. Maarten. It’s the only island in the world split amicably between two different nationalities – the French and Dutch. The Dutch side of the island, while not as well kept, permits gambling and other things tolerated by the Dutch. More romantic, if less anything-goes, is the French side, a cultural marvel. On one hand, island locals are as laid-back as elsewhere in the Caribbean. On the other are the French aspects – incredible bakeries, restaurants and wine, often flown in from France daily. Think low-key beach relaxation here, in addition to acclaimed food and wine. Grand Case and Club Orient Beach Resort are good places to start. Low-stress Caribbean culture abounds, which with then paired with French food, specialty items and wine, make for a distinct and unforgettable experience.

Brides strive to be the best version of themselves on their wedding day without being so different from their everyday look. If a bride wears her hair down and wavy day-in and day-out, a retro updo might not be best suited to her. If a bride’s signature is bold red lips, then who is to say a baby pink gloss is the way to go? Focusing on enhancing your go-to dressy routine will keep you feeling like yourself and comfortable. Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, is said to have used her everyday makeup on her big day. However, there are some classic products and tricks that are worth sharing to inspire bridal beauty routines. 

The first thing to tackle is adjusting for photography. With recent technology, HD formulated products make for beautiful skin and staying power. Both Chantecaille and CARGO make an HD powder that reflects light, minimizes pores and conceals flaws. Skip the physical sunscreens (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) because they can cause a whitish cast. Make sure to do lots of test shots in different light when you conduct a makeup trial.

A perfect pout that stays on through the sips and kisses is crucial. Long-lasting lip products aren’t the matte drying versions of the past. Revlon Just Bitten lip stain packs in the moisture. Layer a hydrating lip gloss over a stain to keep lips supple. Try MAC Lip Glass or Covergirl Wetslicks, both of which have a yummy scent.

A classic eye will withstand the test of time. Neutral eye shadow can accentuate without being distracting. NARS Eye Shadow Duo in Kalahari or Portobello are flattering on a wide range of skin tones. Layer eyeliner for maximum staying power. Begin with pencil in brown or black along lashes, followed by a liquid liner pen like Covergirl LineExact Liquid Eyeliner on top lashes. Opt for a waterproof mascara. L’Oreal Voluminous Waterproof Million Lashes gives a false lash effect without drying out delicate hairs.

A wedding day blowout will have to last hours on end, not to mention withstanding dancing. Keep a dry shampoo on hand, like Oscar Blandi Pronto Invisible Volumizing Dry Shampoo Spray. This version sprays on clear and absorbs oil quickly. If planning to wear hair up on the wedding day, consider any styling done for the rehearsal dinner. Flat ironing hair can make it difficult to achieve hold the following day.

Essie Ballet Slippers is one of the most iconic bridal manicures. The soft pink elongates fingers. Essie’s new gel system offers a corresponding shade, Dance Class, if you want a lasting version. Other nudes like Sand Tropez, Mademoiselle and Fed Up are other options.

Body bronzer or highlighter can add an ethereal glow. bareMinerals Face & Body Luminizer has just a touch of color to warm skin and works on a variety of skin tones. Buxom Divine Goddess Luminizer is a highlighter with a refreshing scent, ideal for collarbones and the front of legs.

Lastly, consider investing in the perfume version of your everyday eau de toilette. The more potent formula will improve staying power and is a great memento.

Brides and grooms today have a wealth of options available in engagement rings and wedding bands. Styles now go far beyond a simple diamond set in yellow or white gold. 

“There are no rules anymore when it comes to wedding rings,” says Jenn Whitekiller, designer and sales associate with Naifeh Fine Jewelry.

While white gold and platinum are still quite popular, many brides are looking toward other colors and metals, shares Donna Grant, sales associate with Bruce G. Weber Precious Jewels in Tulsa.

“Brides today are combining elements of new and old creating a truly unique, elegant look,” says Grant.

Engagement rings and wedding bands using raw and rose cut diamonds and sapphires in various colors have found their way into the spotlight, shares Whitekiller.

“Many people aren’t aware that diamonds as well as sapphires come in a rainbow of beautiful, natural colors, some of which can be very unique and rare making for a truly one-of-a-kind engagement ring,” explains Whitekiller. “We are making a lot of custom engagement rings in rose gold, yellow gold and alternative metals like palladium.”

You aren’t even locked into the traditional two-ring set.

“Many girls have chosen to go with just the one ring and no wedding band, while others create their own ring by using several stacking bands in mixed metals and stones,” says Whitekiller. “Couples love the fact that we can take several design elements that they like and combine them for a truly unique piece.”