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How to plan a Caribbean wedding

If you are beginning your wedding planning, firstly, congratulations are in order.

Always dreamt of saying “I do” surrounded by sun kissed beaches and crystal-clear waters? A Caribbean wedding is the idyllic choice to transform your fairy tale dream into a breath-taking reality.

There is certainly plenty to consider when it comes to wedding planning so, to help you get the absolute most out of this jaw dropping destination, we have compiled some key questions and tips to help you plan your dreamlike Caribbean wedding.

How to plan a destination wedding

When it comes to planning a destination wedding, the location is of the upmost importance. The Caribbean islands are hugely diverse, boasting dramatic tropical scenery, pristine turquoise waters and mountainous landscapes.

When planning your Caribbean wedding in this tropical haven, be sure to thoroughly research the many islands and discover what each destination can offer.

A true hot-spot for tying the knot in paradise, Barbados will have you beginning married life surrounded by indulgence. Barbados boasts it all; tranquillity if you’re looking for a peaceful and intimate Caribbean wedding, or hustle and bustle if you and your guests want to party. A jaw dropping combination of turquoise lagoons and over 60 white sand beaches, this heavenly idyll makes the perfect romantic destination for Caribbean weddings and honeymoons.

Antigua, with its perfect white sand beaches, one for every day of the year and stunning coastline is not only home to true paradise but is also a superb destination for non-motorised water sports and paddle boarding, should you and your guests want to have some pre or post-wedding fun taking in the crystal-clear waters.

How much does it cost to have a destination wedding?

Fees for wedding ceremonies do vary depending on which resort you decide to marry in. The overall costs also depend on your unique requirements, party size and scale of the wedding you are looking to have. Elite Island Resorts offer FREE wedding packages when staying 7 nights or more – ministry fees apply – for up to 6 guests however we can arrange a wedding for just the two of you or a much larger wedding party if you desire.

The beauty of Caribbean destination weddings is that you will have the support of on-site coordinators on-hand to walk you through every aspect of your wedding planning, right the way through to your luxury Caribbean honeymoon. Packages, resort options and costs can be discussed with your designated coordinator, who can talk through your vision, your unique requirements and how to get the absolute most from your wedding budget.

How much notice should you give guests for a destination wedding?

A wedding is a true celebration and a time to spend with loved ones. Whether you are planning an intimate ceremony or looking to mark your marriage with many friends and family, ensure you give your guests plenty of notice.

From saving for flights and accommodation to outfit planning, childcare arrangements and booking time off work, ensure each of your loved ones are present on your big day and get those save the dates out as soon as possible.

When is the best time to book our Caribbean wedding?

Fortunately, the Caribbean benefits from wonderful weather all year round, so you and your fiancé are not restricted when it comes to timing your special day.

However, ensure you do your research around tourist season and compare prices for yourself and your guests.

Should we visit the destination beforehand?

Visiting your Caribbean wedding destination in advance is a perfect opportunity to finalise key details and meet with your chosen vendors if you wish however it is not necessary. At Elite we are experienced at working with you before you travel to make your arrangements plus the Wedding Coordinator will meet with you before your big day.

If you do travel to resort prior, it is a chance for you to run through how you envisage your special day playing out, gain inspiration for photographs and make final refinements to plans. You may want to use this time to map out other activities you and your guests would like to try after the wedding, plan day trips and excursions and, most importantly, enjoy the build up to your big day in this idyllic dreamlike setting.

Which vendors should we use?

When planning your big day in the Caribbean, Elite Island Resorts include optional extras. Take advantage of the expertise and insight from wedding co-ordinators, they know local, reliable vendors inside out and have the knowledge to help shape your ideas and make them a reality.

Which wedding attire should we choose?

With average daily temperatures of 27°C throughout the year, you’ll want to carefully consider your wedding attire for your special day.

Lightweight material with delicate details is likely to be a suitable choice for a wedding in the Caribbean. Perhaps you want to feel the sand between your toes during the ceremony? This will impact on the type of footwear you will select. Your guests may feel more comfortable wearing flip flops and lightweight linens. Look and feel great in a carefully considered wedding outfit that will not only ooze comfort but have you truly looking the part on your big day.

Book your dream wedding today

The experienced team at Elite Island Resorts is on hand to help with the planning of your dream day. Make your fairy tale dreams of getting married in paradise a reality by contacting us today and letting our team help you shape your luxurious Caribbean wedding.