Choosing an Island for Your Caribbean Wedding

When you're planning the most exciting day of your life, there is nothing quite like the sunshine and luxury of warm weather tropical weddings. Caribbean islands are the perfect place for an event that combines the beauty of a true tropical paradise with some of the best luxury hotels in the world. Whether you want seaside venues, indoors or are more interested in one of the more simple weddings, Caribbean islands have it all. The only problem you may have is choosing which of the islands you want to go get married on! Three excellent choices are St Lucia, Barbados and Grenada. St Lucia Named after St Lucy of Syracuse, the island of St Lucia is number one on the popularity list. From the unspoilt miles of beaches with their endless sandy shores, to the Piton Mountains surrounded by amazingly blue waters, you really can have the nuptial event of your dreams on St Lucia. The island mountainous and covered in rain forests (far more so than its neighbours) and it is a prime choice for romantic couples, so everywhere you go you can be assured of the best possible facilities and services for your big day. This will leave you free to focus on other things, like relaxing with your family, guests, and new partner. Barbados Less mountainous than nearby St Lucia, Barbados is another top contender for weddings. Caribbean weather is generally very hot, but if you choose to get married here, Barbados has over 70 miles of blissful beaches for you to get your feet wet and escape the heat.

With plenty of waterfront options, you can have your event right beside the water. If you prefer, you can look into tying the knot somewhere in the interior of the island near one of the stunning nature preserves. You could even head offshore for a ceremony on board a boat, then head ashore for a Barbadian reception to remember - with some of the world’s tastiest rum! If you're staying on for your honeymoon (and why wouldn't you?) there is a variety of historical sites to visit, where you can learn more about the culture and history of the island. Grenada With a prolific nutmeg and mace production, Grenada is often called the "island of spice", and if you choose this lovely destination for your big day, it can certainly add a touch of the exotic to weddings. Caribbean islands all offer stunning coastlines and beautiful waters, but Grenada might just offer that little bit more – according to the locals! There are a number of secluded beaches that can make splendid places for a ceremony, or you can also head inland and use the dramatic backdrop of a waterfall at Annandale Falls, Concord or Royal Mt. Carmel. If you want your big day to be dripping with pure luxury, then you might choose to have your ceremony and reception at one of the luxurious hotels, which occupy prime locations with views over the white and sweeping beaches.

Helen C. Edwards works for the Essential Hotel Collection. For romantic weddings, Caribbean venues can't be beaten. We have a handpicked portfolio of privately owned hotels offering superb accommodation. We have an intimate knowledge of every property and can provide the perfect accommodation to make your island dreams a reality.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.