[BaconsMama]

So I know you're from Barbados...DF and I are planning a destination wedding. Basically we're between Barbados & St. Kitts but leaning more towards Barbados. We bought my engagement ring in Barbados and proposed in St. Kitts
I have some questions for ya! We're talking about The Crane for a location, but we're going to need photographers and stuff. Do you have any places that you can suggest for things like photographer, cake, etc? Have you been to The Crane, any opinions on it? Any other places that you would suggest? We're trying to figure things out and get things in order so we can pick a date. I figured why not ask someone from the Island. I hope you don't mind

If we chose St. Kitts we're thinking the Mariott. We do feel a stronger 'connection' with Barbados though. There's just something special we felt about the island.

If anyone has any opinions or tips, please feel free to add!

[*Anna*]

how exciting!!!! What are the marriage licence requirements there? DH and I were married in St Thomas and had a destination wedding, but it is a US island so it was easy! My brother wants to do another island wedding so Im curious!

[BaconsMama]

Oohh we love St. Thomas! That's awesome. I believe it's 24-48 hours. Each island has their own different requirements though.

[~* Helen *~]

Exciting !!!

[Mars]

Oh, I'd be happy to help you with any information you need.

The Crane is a fantastic place. Very beautiful and the food is excellent! It would be a great place to have a wedding.

Are you planning to stay at the Crane as well?
Will you be using a wedding coordinator?
Do you want a garden or beach themed wedding?

Here are a few links of some coordinators and other general information:
Tropical Weddings
Bajan Weddings

Photographers
Here are a few. I know some others but I will need to find out from them if they have web pages, etc. Will try to get some more info tomorrow.

Studio Studio - they are one of the best places on the island but I can't find their website searching the internet. I'll have to call and get it from them. Here's a link to a little tidbit of info on them. Studio Studio info

Vision Photography Inc. - The guy who runs this is a personal friend of mine and he's been getting excellent reviews. Check out the Wedding section in the Gallery. Vision Photography Inc.

Brook's Latouche - the website is awful to be quite honest but I've seen their work and it's good. Brooks LaTouche Photography - Wedding Packages

Cakes
I don't know anyone personally but there are quite a few places and individuals who specialise here. If you were having the ceremony at the Crane, I would suggest letting them prepare the cake as well. I will try to get names and links or photos for you.

The Hilton also prepares wonderful cakes!!

Barbados Marriage Requirements
I copied this straight of the barbados.org website

It is very easy to get married in Barbados as there is no required waiting period or minimum length of stay. Application for a marriage licence must be made by both parties in person at the office of the Ministry of Home Affairs in the capital city Bridgetown. You will require:

* Valid passports or birth certificates.
* Return tickets.
* If either party was divorced, an original Decree Absolute or a certified copy of the Final Judgment.
* If either party was previously married and widowed, a certified copy of the Marriage Certificate and Death Certificate in respect of the deceased spouse.
* For a Roman Catholic ceremony, the relevant documents must be sent by your bishop to the bishop of Bridgetown.
* Where necessary, all documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation.

-----
Amara's a bit fussy so I will post more info. later.

[BaconsMama]

Thank you so much! That's a lot of fantastic information. We're thinking about trying for January 1, 2011. Do you think we would have any issues trying for New Years Day or do you think the prices would be a lot higher than normal? Thank you again!!!

[Mars]

Hmmm, I do think the prices will be higher but it's hard to say with the economic situation. If persons cut back on traveling they may have specials on.