Antigua Weddings Caribbean in Focus

Get Married in Antigua and Barbuda! Antigua and Barbuda is a tropical paradise made for romantic weddings. And, as you'd expect, you can choose from a whole range of options, from barefoot on the beach to classical in the cathedral. Top properties: BlueWaters, Carlisle Bay, Curtain Bluff, Galley Bay, Jumby Bay. Hot spots to watch: Nonsuch Bay (Antigua) Sugar Ridge (Antigua) Lighthouse Bay Resort (Barbuda). Landscape: Antigua has a stunning coastline with coves and harbours and endless sandy beaches. The rest of the island is low lying with undulating hills. Barbuda is a low-lying coral island known for its untouched pink coral and white sand beaches. Activities: Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour, a sunset catamaran cruise; boat tours to Antigua’s sister island, Barbuda or for turtlewatching on Long island. Diving tours and the enchanting Stingray City Tour. Head to Shirley Heights on a Sunday for rousing reggae music and breathtaking views or hire a jeep and explore English Harbour. Marriage Requirements: Documentation needs to be approved by The Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs in St. John’s and a marriage application completed. The wedding ceremony is usually performed by the Registrar or Deputy Registrar in the Registrar’s Office, or by a Civil Marriage Officer at a pre-selected location. The wedding must take place between 6am and 8pm. Residency Requirement: None. Documents Required: Essential documents – All you need is a passport, a valid ID picture, a decree absolute if divorced, a marriage certificate and death certificate if you have been widowed, or if single, a declaration signed in Antigua and Barbuda. Fees: US$150 for the licence (approx £83), US$40 for the registration fee (approx £22) plus a fee for the Marriage Officer which is dependent upon the chosen location. TOP TIPS A Wedding At Sunset: Avoid the heat of the mid-day sun and say your vows as the sun goes down, creating a magical backdrop for your special day. Wedding Photography With A Difference: For something a little bit different try out the “Trash the Dress” photography service. Local photographer, Vanessa Hall uses all the island has to offer in order to create these once in a lifetime images. Be prepared to get wet! Unity Sand Ceremony: For couples wanting to add something unique to their ceremony, the ‘Unity Of The Sands Ceremony’ provides a truly authentic experience.White sand from Antigua and pink sand from Barbuda is poured by the bride and the groom symbolising unity and the newly formed union. Use The Island Experts: Make sure your wedding day goes as planned by making use of the inhouse wedding coordinators available at most hotels. If an amazing venue outside the hotel is your preference, the island also has experienced event coordinators, available to assist with planning the day. Hassle Free: Make the most of the islands no residency requirements and experience a hassle free wedding in Antigua and Barbuda. For more information on Weddings in Antigua & Barbuda Visit: http://www.perfectweddingsabroad.co.uk/destination/Caribbean/Antigua Source: Information kindly supplied by Caribbean Tourism Organisation: http://www.caribbean.co.uk/content/files/CaribbeanWeddingGuide2011.pdf