Complete Guide: Where to Start Planning Your Caribbean Wedding

Planning a wedding can quickly feel overwhelming, especially when you want everything to be perfect. However, with a clear approach and the right tools, it's possible to make the planning easier and live this adventure with serenity.

Whether you're considering a wedding at home or a destination wedding in the islands, here are the first steps to get started right.

1. Define your vision: What kind of Caribbean wedding makes you dream? 

Above all, take time to imagine your ideal wedding. Is it an intimate ceremony with a small group or a grand festive celebration with all your loved ones? Do you dream of an elegant dinner on the beach in Saint-Barthelemy, a laid-back moment in St. Maarten, or a more intimate wedding in your family home?

This vision will be your compass for all the decisions to come. Take time to discuss it as a couple, without external pressure.

Also read: Intimate wedding or grand celebration: choosing the ideal size for your island wedding

2. Choose your wedding venue: at home or destination wedding? 

Choosing the venue is a key step in planning your Caribbean wedding. Getting married at home offers a familiar setting and is often more practical for loved ones.

But more and more couples are opting for a destination wedding – the combo of wedding + travel. This formula allows you to extend the event with an unforgettable stay for you and your guests. And in the islands, there's an abundance of choice!

For those who don't live in the Caribbean, this destination is ideal for a unique wedding, between turquoise seas and festive atmosphere.

CARIB WEDDING TIP:

• Benefits of an "at home" wedding:

  • Familiar and reassuring setting

  • Simplified logistics for loved ones

  • Reduced transport budget

• Benefits of a destination wedding:

  • Unique experience for everyone

  • Change of scenery and atmosphere

  • Travel memories as a bonus

3. Determine your wedding budget 

Setting a realistic budget from the start will save you many surprises and unnecessary stress. It's less romantic than choosing your dress, but it's essential!

Think about including all the essential items: venue, catering, decoration, outfits, transportation, accommodations, but also extras like a brunch the next day or special entertainment.

The venue and number of guests strongly influence the overall cost, so it's important to determine them together with your budget.

CARIB WEDDING TIP:

Budget items we tend to forget:

• Wedding invitation postage fees

• Administrative fees (marriage contract)

• Vendor overtime hours

• Hair and makeup trials

• Travel expenses

• Thank-you cards

4. Surround yourself with the right vendors 

The success of a wedding largely depends on the professionals you work with. Thanks to Carib Wedding, you can easily connect with local vendors in the Caribbean: photographers, florists, bartenders, makeup artists, caterers...

Our platform allows you to easily find vendors who match your style, budget, and destination, whether your wedding is in Martinique, Guadeloupe, St Maarten, or St Barthelemy.

Also read: Planning our wedding: 5 things we wish we'd known before getting started

5. Set a date and book the essentials 

Once you have your vision, venue, and vendors in mind, it's time to set the date. This choice will often depend on local weather, especially if you're getting married in the Caribbean (watch out for hurricane season!), and the availability of reception venues or accommodations.

Best periods for a Caribbean wedding:

• December to April: ideal climate but high season

• May and November: good compromise

• September-October: peak hurricane season

Book these essentials early:

• Ceremony and reception venue

• Photographer and/or videographer

• Caterer

• Accommodations

• Plane tickets if you're traveling to St. Barth, Martinique, etc.

Also read: Your timeline for a stress-free wedding in the Caribbean

6. Fully enjoy the adventure 

The most important thing in this beautiful adventure is not to let yourself be overwhelmed by stress. Planning your wedding, especially from a distance or in a place as magical as Guadeloupe or Sint Maarten, should remain a pleasure above all.

Take time to savor each step, make choices that align with your desires, and surround yourself with people you trust.

Our tips to keep smiling:

• Savor each preparation step

• Make choices that align with your true desires

• Surround yourself with people you trust

• Don't hesitate to delegate without guilt

CARIB WEDDING TIP: Your wedding should reflect you, not meet others' expectations!

Your Caribbean wedding adventure starts now! 

To guide you through this wonderful adventure, Carib Wedding is here for you every step of the way with local vendors, helpful advice and inspiration, and a community of couples going through the same journey.