Cayman Island Wedding :: How much does it cost?
Today I wanted to address a question I get on a daily basis (usually more than once a day) :: “How much does it cost to have my wedding in the Cayman Islands?”
No, I’m not going to just throw out a number for you or give you the “magic” answer, but I will give you a few things to consider and steps to take when beginning your planning.
1:: It is important to think about, talk about and visualize your wedding. You don’t need to know the details EXACTLY but you should have a good idea about the level of formality, your “must haves”, your “must not haves” and general ideas you would like to explore. There are a million sources out there–blogs, TV shows, magazines, friend’s weddings, etc.–it can get very overwhelming. So, first and foremost, think, talk and visualize.
2 :: Develop a cost expectation. You can do this by researching on your own or talking to a planner. When couples contact me, after their initial consultation, I send them a preliminary cost breakdown. This is just a starting point (since the actual decisions are not yet made), but at least it helps develop an expectation of what things actually cost here in the Cayman Islands. A cost expectation should be established before the budget of the wedding.
3 :: Research. If you would like to do some research, you are in the right place. Crystal Blue Wedding Studio was developed to help you do this. Visit the Crystal Blue Vendors page to “meet” the top quality wedding vendors in the Cayman Islands. Many of our vendors have pricing on their websites and if you can’t find what you are looking for, feel free to contact them. They are here to help!
4 :: There are tools out there that help determine the industry standard breakdown of your budget. Those are a good starting point but you will also need to have some flexibility when it comes down to line item amounts. These breakdowns are not specific to the Cayman Islands and the pricing will vary.
5 :: Money saving tip….You will NOT save money by buying everything at home and shipping it down. The actual item may bear a less expensive price tag, however you should also take into account shipping, duty, customs clearing fees, storage and shipping the items back. It all adds up!
That’s just my two cents (no pun intended!) and something for you to think about.
I’m curious–how did you develop the budget for your wedding?
Cayman Islands Inspired Storyboard :: The Cayman Sea
by Danielle on August 18, 2010
in Cayman, Inspiration, Weddings
Without fail, every time I get a glimpse of the Cayman Sea (which, by the way is every day…don’t be jealous!) I want to jump right in and go for a swim. While I may not always have my swimsuit in hand, the colors always dazzle and really sparkle in the sun. The Cayman sea brings the perfect color palette for your Cayman wedding–starting with a very light aqua blue and darkening into the depths of the deep blue sea. I’ve put together a story board that reflects these amazing blues…I hope you enjoy–I’m going for a swim!
photo credit:
top row, second from left:: David Wolfe, third and fourth across:: The Knot
second row, first:: The Knot second and third:: David Wolfe third row, first:: Jim Gates second:: Wedding Channel, third from:: The Knot fourth row,first and second:: The Knot, third courtesy of Danielle Cococcia, last:: Rebecca Davidson
Crystal Blue Top 10 :: Frequently Asked Questions
by Danielle on August 16, 2010
in Cayman, Crystal Blue Vendors, Destination weddings, Weddings
Of course you will have questions. You are planning a wedding, something you may not have done before. The wedding is in the Cayman Islands, somewhere you may never have been before. Ask away!! Here are my top 10 (in no particular order) most frequently asked questions from brides getting married in the Cayman Islands. Feel free to leave your questions in a comment below and I will do my best to answer them!!
10. Q: If I get married in the Cayman Islands, is it legal in the United States?
A: Yes, as long as you have applied (and been granted) a marriage license by the Cayman Islands Government, a Cayman Islands Marriage Officer has witnessed your ceremony and you and your witnesses have signed the marriage certificate provided by the Cayman Islands Marriage Officer.
9. Q: Do you have photographers in Cayman or do I need to bring my own?
A: We have many extremely talented photographers in Cayman and we fully 100% endorse their art!! All you need to do is check out the Crystal Blue Provider page for photographer information!
8. Q: What is the best time of year weather-wise to have a wedding?
A: Although I am not claiming to be mother nature and can’t predict the weather, there are some general rules of thumb. Rainy season technically begins May 1 and ends November 30. That doesn’t mean we have torrential rain every day…typically there is a shower once a day for about 45 minutes. September and October are generally rainier than the other months. February through April are absolutely gorgeous and typically the most popular months for weddings.
7. Q: Is there ferry service to the Sister Islands (Cayman Brac and Little Cayman)
A: No, they are too far for a ferry, but we do have daily flights into and out of both sister islands.
6. Q: I’m coming on a cruise ship, can we get married the same day we arrive?
A: Yes, the Cayman Islands do not have a residency period requirement in order to apply for a marriage license.
5. Q: Should I ship my dress down or carry it down?
A: Well, this one is totally up to you, but my two cents…carry it. It’s a rare occurrence, but with couriers it is a possibility for things to go missing or get damaged. You don’t want to take that risk, especially with your dress.
4. Q: What is the best time of day to get married?
A: Most couples opt for sunset time which varies depending on the time of year. My suggestion is to discuss it with your photographer or on-island planner as they will be able to tell you when the best light is for your photos. Legally you can be married anytime between 6:00am and 8:00pm
3. Q: What about help with planning and designing my wedding. Do I have to do it on my own or are there people who can help me with the details of the wedding?
A: The Cayman Islands have some amazing talent to assist you with whatever your planning and designing needs may be. The providers you see on Crystal Blue have been invited as members because of their proven high quality standard and are ready to help make your wedding spectacular!
2. Q: Can I have a wedding on a Sunday?
A: Yes, you can, however, keep in mind that live music must not be played in places licensed to sell alcoholic beverages. If you are having a wedding on a Sunday and would like music, discuss this with your on-island planner or your venue contact as they can apply for a special exemption.
1. Q: Are there a variety of locations to have a wedding and reception or is it just the beach?
A: While our beach is GORGEOUS, that is not your only choice! We have locations with decks overlooking the water, gardens, rooftops and more. Have a look at the venues section of the membership for more information.
That’s the 10 for today! Of course there are so many more questions people have, but these are some that I come across more often than not. If you have any questions, leave a comment and I will get back to you!
Cayman Islands Inspired Storyboard :: The Natural Beauty of Cayman
by Danielle on August 11, 2010
in Cayman, Cayman Brac, Inspiration
While the Cayman Islands are most well known for the crystal blue sea and the white sand beaches, there are many other natural attractions on each of the islands. More known for the wildlife, Cayman Brac is a place to explore! With the gorgeous bluff and the interesting caves Cayman Brac is a beauty all of it’s own! The following story board was inspired by the Brac’s natural surroundings.
1st row, centerpiece:: The Knot, coconut:: Danielle Cococcia, program::The Knot, canopy:: The Knot
2nd row, grass: A Thousand Words Photography, fan: The Knot, program:: Wedding Channel, bamboo centerpiece:: Wedding Channel, boutonierre:: The Knot, jam with raffia: The Knot, centerpiece: Wedding Channel
3rd row, garden: Meg Paterson, leaf place setting: Wedding Channel
Cayman Islands Inspired Storyboard :: White Sand Beach
by Danielle on August 4, 2010
in Cayman, Destination weddings, Grand Cayman, Inspiration, Weddings
If you have been to the Cayman Islands you know we have the most amazing white sand beaches in all of the Caribbean (in one gal’s opinion!). My husband and I walk the beach every weekend and every time we go, I am reminded of one of the reasons why I am so lucky to live here!
These are the things that remind me of the beach–neutral colors, sunsets, shells and pretty, simple flowers.
Challenge for you…create a story board that makes you think of the beach (doesn’t have to be the Cayman beach!) and send it to us. We’d love to see what you put together! (And maybe there’s a little something in it for you….)
photo credit:
first row, chuppah:: www.jimgatesphotography.com, couple:: www.jimgatesphotography.com, hair:: www.theknot.com
second row, couple:: www.jimgatesphotography.com, chair:: Danielle Cococcia, reception:: David Wolfe, starfish: Danielle Cococcia
third row, bouquet:: Rebecca Davidson, sand dollars:: www.theknot.com, orchids:: www.weddingchannel.com, beach:
Cayman Islands Photographer :: Melissa Wolfe of Better Angle
Re-introducing you to Melissa Wolfe of Better Angle!
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Meet Melissa! Fun, down-to-earth, and ever creative, Melissa Wolfe of Better Angle. Melissa has been shooting weddings for a while now and I am so happy to be able to introduce you to her!
Crystal Blue: Melissa, describe your style to our readers.
Melissa: I like to have fun with the couple and make sure to capture the sentimental moments, the details of the day as well as those unique candids with the guests. Of course portraits are a must and need to capture the personality of the bride and groom.
Crystal Blue: Especially for the portraits, since many couples are not used to getting photographed to the extent they are on their wedding day, how do you get them to relax and be themselves?
Melissa: Well, it varies with each couple, but I’m relaxed and find it only takes a few minutes to get everyone relaxed and enjoying themselves getting photographed.
Crystal Blue: After shooting so many weddings, how do you keep things fresh and new?
Melissa: Well, I can’t give away all of my trade secrets! hahah! I have new things up my sleeve everyday! Recently, during Pirate’s week, I did a “Trash the Dress” session the day after the wedding. I hired 10 pirates to join us for the shoot–they “stole” the bride and the groom triumphantly fought back to win back his lady!!
Crystal Blue: That sounds like so much fun!! What is the process you to through with each couple?
Melissa: Again, it varies with each couple. My only goal is to ensure my clients are 100% satisfied throughout the process and with the end product. To me it is not good enough for someone to say “the photos are nice”. I want my clients to be overjoyed with the photos and thrilled they chose me as their photographer!
Crystal Blue: Well, based on what I’ve seen, I’m sure they all are!! If you could give one piece of advice to couples looking for a photographer, what would it be?
Melissa: Make sure you hire someone with a good reputation for delivering amazing photos and has established experience shooting weddings. Also, remember your photos are the one keepsake you have from your wedding day so have your photographer present for every moment, of course, as much as your budget allows.
Crystal Blue: Thank you so much, Melissa!
Do you have any questions for Melissa? If so, leave a comment here! Melissa was the photographer on yesterday’s real wedding. You can also check out some of her work here.
Crystal Blue Planning Tips :: Welcome Bags
by Danielle on July 30, 2010
in Cayman, Inspiration, Weddings
If you are having a destination wedding in the Cayman Islands, in addition to or instead of a favor, consider giving your guests welcome bags upon their arrival. It is such a nice gesture and really makes your guests feel like you were thinking about THEM and appreciate them travelling for your wedding. Here is my top 10 for items to include…
10. An itinerary of events. This does not have to be only hosted events, but meeting places and times as well. A great way to present this is on the back of one of these maps!
9. A personalized note from both of you thanking your guests for traveling to share in your day!
8. A little bottle of Tortuga Rum + a can of locally made fruit punch (=rum punch)
7. A beach towel with “Cayman Islands” embroidered on it
6. A copy of one of the local Cayman magazines to tell your guests about all of the happening places during their visit.
5. A Tortuga Rum Cake. It’s a must.
4. A “ticket to board” for a pre-arranged snorkeling trip and a disposable underwater camera for your guests to bring along.
3. Snacks for the beach and a big bottle of water (preferably a re-usable enviro-friendly bottle).
2. A bottle of sunblock–that Caribbean sun can burn!!
1. A box of Cayman Islands made salt water taffy (yum!)
What do you put all of this in??? There are so many options, but we love canvas beach totes. This way, your guests can use them during their trip and easily fold them up to put in their luggage on the way home! Your guests will be sure to love this little gift you’ve given them!!!
Cayman Islands Inspired Story Board :: Mango
by Danielle on July 28, 2010
in Cayman, Inspiration, Weddings
Mango, mango everywhere! Here in the Cayman Islands we have some lovely mango trees that bear the most delicious mango. I had some the other day–it was so yummy–so when I was thinking of what color I should use for this week’s story board I figured why not yummy mango?? And besides…I’m on a fruit kick the past few weeks so I thought I’d continue with it.
Cayman Islands Photographer :: Rebecca Davidson
by Danielle on July 13, 2010
in Cayman, Crystal Blue Preferred Provider, Destination weddings, Grand Cayman, Weddings
I have had quite a few requests to learn more about the photographers we feature on Crystal Blue. We thought we’d start by re-posting their introductory features just in case you missed them the first time! Today, we’d like you to meet Rebecca Davidson!
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I’m so excited to introduce this Cayman Islands photographer to you today. If you couldn’t tell by her profile photo, Rebecca is FUN with a capital F! I have worked with Rebecca on countless weddings and always have such a great time with her! So, without further delay….
Crystal Blue: Rebecca, how long have you been photographing weddings?
Rebecca: Can you believe it–15 years!
Crystal Blue: That’s incredible. I know the word passionate doesn’t even begin to describe how you feel about your work. How do you keep things fresh and new?
Rebecca: This is challenging. A lot of brides will say, “I love this shot on your site, I want that!!!!”. So, what I do is tell the bride and groom I want to create something new and different and specific to them. I encourage them to let me know what they love and what they are passionate about. Then the ideas just start flowing. A few weeks ago I shot a bride and groom and he pulled out his golf shoes for a shot. The bride wasn’t having any of it! Anyhow, I convinced her to take a few shots of just their shoes under the dress (the bride with her gorgeous shoes and the groom with his dirty old golf shoes). They loved one of the shots so much, the ended up using it for their thank you cards!
Crystal Blue: That’s fantastic! Tell us more. How would you describe your style?
Rebecca: It is actually hard to pin point a specific style as I would want to list everything I do, emotional, photojournalistic, artistic, traditional, fun etc. and I feel it is almost best to say I adapt to the bride and groom, hugely influence them and bring out their fun and creative side. I guess I would like to be considered their ‘story teller’. Can that be considered a style? Story Teller!
Crystal Blue: Well if it wasn’t before, Story Teller is a style now! What is your favorite part of any given wedding?
Rebecca: The emotion! Absolutely, hands down. I love it when the bride looks up for the first view in the mirror of her dress, her mother watching from the back. I love capturing the look when she puts on her shoes. I love love love it when the groom cries or the father of the bride cries. (Or the planner!!!! Hahaha Yes, I have seen you cry, Danielle! ) It really is an amazing experience and by the end of the day, you really feel part of their family. Then….. you get to show them their images and they get to relive the whole thing over again. I love that part!!! Is that too many favorite things????
Crystal Blue: Hahhaa, no–you can have as many as you’d like! And yes, I do get teary at almost every wedding! You have such a warm and fun loving personality, but since more couples are not used to getting photographed to the extent they are on their wedding day, how do you get them to relax and be themselves?
Rebecca: I’m a very laid back person, so that immediately relaxes them. I want to have fun with the bride and groom but I also know it is important to be in the background to allow the natural flow of the family and friends with the couple allowing me to capture those emotions as they unfold. When I have the bride and groom to myself is when we have a blast! After all the fun and creative shots are done is not uncommon for them to say, “That was so much fun!!!We feel like rock stars!”.
Crystal Blue: That must give you a lot of job satisfaction! If you could give one piece of advice to a couple looking for a photographer, what would it be?
Rebecca: When you look at the photographers images, you need to be moved emotionally and be excited by what you see. Connect with the photographer and make sure you feel comfortable. Finally, don’t just settle for a cd! This is the most important day of your life! Let the photographer help you create a ‘piece of art’.
That’s more than one piece of advice right? Am I in trouble now? Okay one last one…. My favourite slogan….. “Invest in an artist….photography is forever”. Do I talk to much?
Crystal Blue: You are too funny Rebecca!!! Thank you SO much for taking the time to chat with us and let our readers get to know you better! To see Rebecca’s work, click here. Rebecca was also the featured photographer on yesterday’s Cayman Islands Real Wedding of Marizen and Jamie.
Cayman Islands Lighting Provider :: Intec Research
by Danielle on April 13, 2010
in Cayman, Crystal Blue Preferred Provider
I love when we are able to bring a lighting professional into the mix of providers to enhance the design of a wedding. Specialty lighting can add so much from soft romantic light to full floods of color, pin spots to beautiful chandeliers. The possibilities are endless and the effect is amazing!
Today we wanted to introduce Intec Research, the Crystal Blue preferred lighting specialist. Located in Grand Cayman, Intec also spreads it’s arms to Jamaica as well. The team is full of creative and technical specialists who are ready to give that ”WOW” to your wedding!
Here’s even more good news…you do not need to know technical lighting language to work with them. You don’t even need to know exactly what you want. Lastly, what I’m sure worries many of you, you don’t need to have an enormous budget to include a little bit of lighting in your wedding.
Here are a few examples of what Intec can do for your wedding (and this is really just scratching the surface!!).
At this wedding, the colors were white, pink and black. In the beginning of the evening, they kept it fairly light and throughout the night, the pink color intensified.
Here, Intec used pin spot lighting to enhance each of the centerpieces.
At this event, in addition to the red color wash, Intec a gobo to reflect a pattern on the ceiling of this tent. The pattern mimicked the pattern on the cake!
Last, make it personal. Add a gobo with your names, your monogram or an image to brand your wedding. The couple had the gobo on their dance floor, but you can put it anywhere!
As I said above, these few images just scratch the surface. There is so much a lighting professional can do to really enhance your design and even completely transform a room to work for your wedding. To learn more about Intec Research click here.
