Our July/August issue is filled with all of the planning, fashion, and honeymoon news you’ll need to guarantee smooth sailing in the months ahead.

And, for the first time ever, we’re super-excited to present our honeymoon and destination wedding Travel Awards.

In this special feature, you’ll discover the best resorts, beaches, all inclusives and more chosen by a team of experts who’ve combed the globe to help you decide on the trip of a lifetime. From pools to spas to restaurants, get the inside scoop on honeymoon favorites. (And be sure to visit bridalguide.com/travelawards for even more top travel picks.)

Before you start packing for the honeymoon, though, I’m sure many of you are still searching for that perfect dress. In this issue, you’ll find an amazing array of gorgeous gowns, and you can even enter to win the fabulous Oleg Cassini dress featured on the cover.

We have gowns to suit every bride’s style, from romantic, floral-accented looks:

to elegantly chic, classic dresses.

If you favor a more glamorous, sexy vibe, you’ll love the fabulous star-worthy gowns in our “Spellbound” story.

Plus, check out the hottest trends on the bridal runways:

And get ready to shop after you’ve seen our “under $100” picks of jewelry, shoes, beauty products — even an adorable $99 bridesmaid dress!

What’s the hottest new look in bridal hairstyles today? Braids! In fact, braided styles were all over the runways, from tightly woven updos to loose, softer looks. In our Beauty File story, you’ll get tips from the pros on how to create these styles, as well as the best products to use.

We know that choosing your wedding colors can be challenging. In “Perfect Palettes,” event planner Sasha Souza offers tips on how to select your hues and showcases some of her favorite color combos, from subtle neutrals and soft pastels to bold, bright shades.

You’ll also love the outdoor-wedding ideas on our Party Planner pages:

And the great advice given for every pre-wedding celebration — from engagement party to rehearsal dinner — such as who hosts, who’s invited and when to have it.

One of my favorite stories is “Budget Blunders.” We asked recent brides across the country to weigh in on what they wish they had not spent money on. I promise, not only will you be surprised by their responses — and perhaps re-think some of your own ideas — but you’ll also be able to trim your budget significantly.

PIX “BUDGET BLUNDERS” spread

Once you’ve found your dress and have the planning and budget under control, it’s time to relax, take a breather and dream about your honeymoon. How about a romantic cruise in the Caribbean? These fabulous itineraries promise sunny days and romantic nights under the stars.

Or choose an off-the-beaten path, picturesque hideaway south of the border:

Or venture across the sea to glorious Greece for another perfect honeymoon getaway.

There’s so much more to enjoy in this issue: We’ll tell you how to negotiate with vendors, how to find the right photographer and how to feel confident in your choices. After all, we want to make planning your fabulous wedding and honeymoon a breeze!

—Diane Forden