By Laura Nowak
Villa on St. John's
Couples often escape to the
Caribbean for their destination weddings because there are so many beautiful islands to chose from. With sandy
beaches, cascading waterfalls or private villas, each island caters to different couples' needs. You should also compare legal requirements of islands before deciding on a final choice and booking your
resort.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Step 1
Plan your budget. Since you will be honeymooning at the same location as the wedding, estimate that you will be traveling 7 to 10 days. This will assist you in configuring your airfare and accommodations. You may wish to discuss travel fees with close family and members of the bridal party to determine what they can afford as well.
Step 2
Select which island you wish to get married on. Each one has different locations that may appeal to you. Aruba has endless stretches of beaches where couples may exchange vows on, while Jamaica and St. Lucia provide cascading waterfalls as a backdrop. St. John's offers couples many choices, such as the beach, a private villa or getting married by a historic ruin.
Step 3
Research the legal requirements for getting married. The basic requirements for all the islands include submitting either a state issued photo identification card or U.S. passport, divorce or death (of spouse) certificate and your birth certificate. Depending on which island you chose, depends on how early you must apply. Antigua, Bahamas, Jamaica, Puerto Rico and Mexico either have no waiting period or take more than 3 days. If you wish to marry in any of the Virgin Islands, you may apply by mail, and it will take up to 8 days to process your application. Aruba is the longest, and you will have to apply 1month prior to your wedding date.
Step 4
Consider doing the legal ceremony at home, and just performing a romantic ceremony on the island, if the requirements are too stringent.
Step 5
Book a resort for you and your guests. You may consider an all-inclusive resort that caters more toward weddings and honeymoons, such as a Sandals or Beaches resort. This way, you will be pampered with breakfast in bed, and the resort coordinator can help you plan your big day.
Resources
About the Author:
Laura Nowak is a freelance writer who combines her love of travel and research to write travel articles. She has been published in various print and online publications, including the "Western Herald," where she wrote arts and entertainment articles. Nowak earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in practical writing from Western Michigan University.
Photo Credits:
copy right by: www.islandstyleweddings.com
