Getting Married Abroad 2

When we think of a Caribbean wedding or honeymoon package names like Sandals, Superclubs or Couples may spring to mind.  From Spa deals to private chefs, more deals are rolling off the carpets of our hotels, to attract couples.  So if you fancy a Caribbean wedding or honeymoon, there are plenty of options to choose from. 

As a taster, the “Oceans of love wedding package” unveiled by SuperClubs’ two Grand Lido resorts in Jamaica, offers:

• Honeymoon Suite with:
• Private whirlpool bath;
• Five suite accommodation for 20 guests;
• Wedding ceremony and reception;
• The services of a Wedding Planner;
• Concierge &
• Private chef;
• Spa packages for the Bride & Groom.

Is that all! I here you say, ‘No!’ There are also extra’s such as musical serenades, photography and private transfers (part of their ‘Wedding Bliss Collection’). Visit superclubs.org for further details.

Why not double the fun? Have your wedding in Barbados then onto St. Lucia for your honeymoon.  St. Lucia was our choice for honeymoon destination, though we didn’t get the opportunity to spend our honeymoon there.  But with options like these available now, you can take advantage of this.  Visit Almondresorts.com for more information on this particular option or ask your wedding planner/ organizer at your travel company for similar options.

Most of the Islands have a website and a dedicated area for weddings and honeymoons.  You can get the advice you need here before heading down to your local travel agent or tour operator.  For example, the Bahamas has two separate websites dedicated to weddings and honeymoons, respectively.  They are www.bahamasweddings.co.uk and www.bahamashoneymoons.co.uk.

In an interview with the Travel Trade Gazette, Randy Russell, chief romance officer for the Jamaican hotel group, Couples Resorts, advises couples to put together a ‘to-do-list’ as there are so many things that can take your mind off the main objective.  We encourage you to take Randy’s advice and put your list together.  Remember, this is your big day – you can’t afford to miss anything.  But if it all gets too overwhelming for you, get the experts on board.  Most tour operators in conjunction with their specialist hotels provide such service.  Do take advantage of this service and enjoy each stage leading up to your wedding day or honeymoon.  This way you will have the opportunity to start your married life ‘stress-free’.

Some things to consider as you put your list together:

1. Legalities – license or certificate? Where to apply for either documentation;
2. Contact details for the places providing these documents;
3. Required documentations if you have been divorced;
4. Required amount of days on the Island to be able to carryout a wedding ceremony;
5. Additional cost involved in obtaining the above;
6. Garments – bridal gown, check if you can carry this onboard as hand luggage;
7. Check if the hotel provides witnesses if you are not travelling with any;
8. Check who is responsible for the decoration of the location;
9. Bouquet, button holes, wedding cakes;
10. Hairdressers & make-up artist;
11. Photography; and
12. Transportation.  

‘Heaven on earth’

‘Paradise honeymoon’

The above are how two couples described their experience at the Couples Resort in a review of the property.  With the expertise of Randy Russell, chief romance officer at this resort, I expect that many others will feel the same way.  Join us in the final part of ‘Getting Married Abroad’ for further advice from the man himself.