Planning a destination wedding comes with plenty of questions, so we’re putting them to the experts. Recently featured in our Destination Wedding Guide, our Ask the Expert series brings together advice from the people who know these places best. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be sharing their insights, one destination at a time, to help you plan everything from the celebration itself to the holiday surrounding it. First up: Jamaica weddings, where Angella Bennett, Regional Director – Canada, Jamaica Tourist Board, talks about budgets, beautiful settings and making the experience your own.
Planning your “I do” in Jamaica
TODAY’S BRIDE: What is the first thing every couple should consider when planning a destination wedding?
ANGELLA BENNETT: “The first step is to define the experience you want to create – not only for yourselves, but also for your guests. Do you envision an intimate ceremony on the beach, a larger celebration at a resort, or a wedding weekend that includes Jamaican culture, food, music and excursions? Once couples understand the type of celebration they want, they can select the right destination and venue. Jamaica offers a wide range of settings, from beautiful beaches and gardens to historic estates, waterfalls and elegant resort venues. As a general guideline, couples should begin planning 12 to 18 months in advance, particularly if they are travelling during a popular season, have a larger guest list or require specific venues and vendors. Jamaica also has experienced destination-wedding planners who can help couples navigate the process from the beginning.”
TB: How does a couple set a budget?
AB: “Couples should establish a comfortable overall budget before making major decisions, but a destination wedding planner or resort wedding specialist can help them understand the costs involved and prioritize what matters most to them. The budget should account for the ceremony and reception, accommodation, travel, décor, photography, entertainment, guest activities, transportation and any legal or administrative requirements. It is important to communicate priorities early – for example, whether the focus is on the food, the setting, the guest experience or a particular cultural element.”
TB: How important was it to create a program that allows more personal choices for couples?
AB: “Personal choice is central to the destination-wedding experience. Couples are not looking for a one-size-fits-all celebration; they want to create a wedding that reflects their personalities, relationship and shared interests. Jamaica provides the flexibility to build a celebration around what is meaningful to each couple. They may choose a classic beach ceremony, a garden celebration, a historic venue or a more adventurous setting, and then personalize the experience through the menu, music, décor, activities and itinerary.”
TB: Do you think this more personalized approach will encourage couples to give their guests a celebration and holiday in one?
AB: “Absolutely. One of the great advantages of a destination wedding in Jamaica is that the wedding and the holiday can become one shared experience. Couples can give guests the freedom to participate in activities that suit them, whether that means relaxing on the beach, enjoying a catamaran cruise, exploring the island, visiting a cultural attraction or taking part in water-based activities.
“The key is to offer choice rather than create a demanding schedule. A well-planned Jamaican wedding weekend might include a welcome gathering, optional excursions and time for guests to enjoy the resort or destination at their own pace. That makes the celebration feel inclusive for different ages, interests and energy levels.”
TB: Favourite destination wedding locations on the island?
AB: “Jamaica offers an exceptional range of wedding settings, each with its own character and sense of place. In Montego Bay, Half Moon is a beautiful choice for couples seeking an elegant, resort-style celebration with a range of scenic venues and space for both intimate gatherings and larger events.
“Rose Hall, also in Montego Bay, is ideal for couples drawn to the area’s historic charm, lush surroundings and striking coastal backdrop. For couples looking for a relaxed, all-inclusive celebration in Negril, Princess Grand Jamaica offers a beautiful setting for a memorable wedding and a full Caribbean getaway for the couple and their guests. Ultimately, the best location depends on the couple’s vision – whether they are looking for heritage and elegance, a classic Montego Bay resort experience or the laid-back beauty of Negril.”
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