The wedding season is here! And nowhere is this more visible than in the Caribbean. As wedding planners on the Friendly Island we feel such prides when we see smiling young (and older couples) descent planes at the Princess Juliana International Airport holding the most valuable accessory of the wedding: the wedding dress.
St. Maarten is a year round wedding destination. With it's sandy beaches, beautiful sunsets and busy nightlife it is one of the preferred destinations for a wedding or vow renewal. Add to the list the fact that it is easy to get to from virtually anywhere in the world and you got yourself a winner.
Whatever the reason for choosing our beautiful island one must remember that it is after all an island. As much as we try to make sure our brides have the most beautiful of days (our most requested being the anti-rain dance) small details might still not go as planned.
Here's how to cope:
- Here on St. Maarten we consider rain on your wedding day to be a Blessing from above. So if it drizzles, smile and thank the heavens.
- The sun can be quite intense in the months of May, June and July. Even with grey skies one can get a nasty sun burn. Make sure to carry after sun care lotions with you or better yet, ask us about our local recipe made of fresh aloe. We do recommend that brides try to avoid sun bathing on the days prior to the wedding but if you must, it is important to avoid tan lines at any cost.
- Especially for the DIY brides: It is important not to stress yourself on the day of your wedding. Planning a wedding is stressful enough. Planning it in in a complete different country is pure madness. Hire a coordinator for the day if you cannot afford a full time planner. This coordinator can manage the vendors and take care of the last minute details and thus give you the space to enjoy your own wedding.
- What happens if the sun is unmercifully hot? Avoid having the cake outside on display. Instead keep it refrigerated and wheel it out just before cutting it.
- Most beach weddings happen around sunset. This makes for a beautiful setting and gorgeous photos. But keep in mind that it can be still quite hot for your guests. Especially if they are not used to the island temperature. Have a beverage table at the ceremony site with simple drinks such as water and lemonade. For a Caribbean twist add a delicious fruit punch.
- Beware of the sandflies! These little insects come out just before the sun sets and hang around for an hour or two after. They bite, and they bite hard. Just keep this in mind if planning an after-ceremony bash on the beach.
- Consider renting a bus with chauffeur to shuttle your guests to and from the wedding location. This is an excellent way of securing the early arrival of everyone.
- Last but not least: You're in the Caribbean. Relax Mon! Everything is gonna be alright.
Owner and Head Planner
