Destination weddings have been popular for quite some time. The modern twist is planning your wedding on an exotic island, like St Lucia, Skopelos, or Saint Thomas. Planning a wedding at an island is easier in some ways, but more difficult in others. If you want to ensure that your island wedding goes smoothly, pay special attention to these areas:
Wedding Planner
One of the best things that you can do when planning an island wedding is to hire a wedding planner who lives on the island where you plan to have the wedding. Many resorts and hotels offer wedding planning services. This is the best way to ensure a hassle-free wedding and holiday experience. A wedding planner can also help walk you through certain elements that you might forget, such as legal paperwork and hiring the right officiate.
Accommodations
You should always make sure that you have enough space for all of your wedding guests. Try to ensure that your accommodations are as close to your wedding venue as possible. Many hotels offer discounts on group bookings. Take advantage of that to save a bundle on the cost of your wedding accommodations.
Legal Paperwork
Many islands have specific legal requirements for a marriage performed on the island. The islands may have several papers that you need to fill out. Pay special attention to waiting periods and how quickly you have to get married after you get the paperwork. Your wedding planner and your wedding ceremony officiate can guide you as you gather the appropriate paperwork and documents for the ceremony.
Transportation
You will have to make sure that your guests can get from one place to another on the island. Many resorts will have several transportation options. Some islands like St Lucia even have public transportation, if that is what you choose to do. Make sure guests know about the transportation options, or if they are expected to find their own transportation methods.
Decorations
You want your wedding to look beautiful, but in an island location, the best decorations are simple. You can go with a beach-theme for your wedding, or something a little more formal, if you like. Many island destination packages come with decorations included. You can speak with your wedding planner about the decorations that you want for your event.
Photography and Video
You want to remember your wedding with pride, and be able to share it with friends and family who were unable to attend. That is why a good-quality photographer and videographer is a must. Some islands may have their own photography staff, but if you want to ensure the best quality, you may want to consider flying your own team in from your hometown.
Food and Reception
After the ceremony, the party is the most important element of your wedding. Look for resort food packages and discount accommodation/reception packages to save money. Your wedding planner can help you find the best resources and deals.
If you follow these steps, you will find that having an island-based wedding is a simple and fun way to get married in style and create lasting memories.