OVERVIEW
The third largest island in the Caribbean, Jamaica is home to many of the best all-inclusive resorts in the region. It is a very popular tourist attraction, possibly for its geography of white sand beaches and lush tropical forests. Personally, I think people go for the national dish of ackee and saltfish or maybe for the delicious jerk chicken… yum!
As a destination wedding location, it is economical and exciting. There are a variety of activities to fill your trip such as climbing a waterfall or riding a zipline through a forest. If you’re not the adventurous type, the beach is the place to be. If you like privacy, consider renting a wedding villa for the week. If you like service, choose an all-inclusive resort staffed with planners to help make your wedding a success. So pack your suitcase and don’t forget your flip flops.
REQUIREMENTS
Getting married in Jamaica is quite an easy affair. Just follow the steps, have the paperwork ready and you will be on your way to saying, “I do”.
- Apply for a marriage license up to 3 months prior to your wedding day ($4000 JMD)
- Have copies of the following: Proof of citizenship (certified copy of birth certificate, which includes father’s name), Parent’s written consent if under
18 years of age, Proof of divorce if applicable (original certificate of divorce), and Certified copy of death certificate for widow or widower - If any of the above legal documents are not in English, these documents must be translated to English and notarized
- No blood test is required
- Arrange for a licensed marriage officer to be present at your wedding to sign the marriage form and make the official marriage pronouncement
- Arrive in Jamaica for 24 hours and be prepared to walk down the aisle
Read this article for more specific details and contact information: www.visitjamaica.com/articles/getting-married-in-jamaica.aspx
ENTERTAINMENT
Just close your eyes for a moment (and have someone read this to you): Imagine yourself on a beautiful beach, a reggae band playing the background, while you and your closest friends dance under the moonlight. This is THE coolest thing to have at a Jamaican wedding! Not your thing? Other population options include DJs, a steel drum band, a mento band, or a saxophonist. And if none of these catch your attention, do your own thing! The vendors in Jamaica are open to new ideas.
BEST TIME
Jamaica has a tropical climate which does not vary too much from season to season but, with an average temperature of 27°C, cooler temperature is always appreciated. For that reason, the island is hit with an influx of travelers during the months of December to March, the winter season. If temperature is your main concern, that is the time to get married in Jamaica. February, March and April are months when students flood the area as they have time off school.
If you mind the young crowd and you don’t mind the heat, make plans to go between the months of May to December, especially those of you who are watching your wallet. According to Visit Jamaica, planning an off-season wedding can save you up to 40% on hotels and other costs. Is the heat worth it? You decide but remember that summer brings with it hurricane season so plan accordingly.
Sources:
Visit Jamaica (2013). Weddings and honeymoons. Retrieved from http://www.visitjamaica.com/vacation-themes/weddings.aspx
[Image Credits: Jamaica Konsulat,Venue Safari,Bunches of Bliss, Saab Wedding]
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