Cayman Islands Wedding Venue :: LUCA

You have seen it featured in many of our real weddings and we just wanted you to get to know LUCA a bit better!  One of Grand Cayman’s most popular wedding venues, Luca combines amazing Italian cuisine with a contemporary atmosphere, just a few steps to the Beach.  Located on the ground floor of the Caribbean Club, LUCA is a fabulous location for any wedding reception! 

Not only are the owners and staff downright awesome but the chef is truly talented…anything you want, they will make.  I had a client that requested a mudslide cake for their wedding cake and let me tell you, that was one of the BEST cakes I have ever tasted (and as my Mom says, I’m not a cake person)! 

As you can see, Luca has a large wine room with wines from all over the world.  The setting inside is contemporary with beautiful art work, dark wood furniture and gorgeous ambient light.  The patio outside is perfect for dining as well, overlooking the beach and Cayman Sea!

Are you having your wedding at LUCA (or did you have your wedding there)?  We would love to hear about your experience!  To learn more about LUCA, click here.

Crystal Blue Providers :: Mise En Place and Sunset Bay

We hope you’re hungry because today we are featuring one of the Cayman Islands finest professional catering companies and their exclusive venue.  Mise En Place (pronounced meez on plahs) was created in 2002 by Chef Sean Collins.  Taking your meal and event to a new level, Mise En Place creates not just food, but exquisite dining experiences to stimulate your senses. 

In addition to culinary delights, Mise En Place now offers an exclusive venue, Sunset Bay.  When I tell you this venue is beautiful, that doesn’t even come close to describing how amazing it actually is!  Water, beach, and garden all in one…what more could you want??

So, I had a few questions for the team at Mise En Place and I thought I’d share them (and the answers) with you…

Crystal Blue:  Describe your process with a couple.  How do you create these dining experiences?

Mise En Place:  We meet with the couple (either in person or by phone) and discuss not only the kind of food they like but the style of their wedding, their vision and their overall personalities.  From there we create a menu which includes the food items as well creative service and display ideas for them to review.  After they review it, we can tweak it however they would like to suit their needs and their vision.  It’s important to us that the food fit in with the overall flow of the event.

Crystal Blue:  What do you mean when you say service and display ideas?

Mise En Place:  There are various ways to serve a meal–buffet style, station style or a plated meal, to name a few.  We need to figure out, with the couple, the best style of service for their wedding.  Also, we like to get creative and display our food in different ways–not just on plates.  It allows us to reflect the couples personality and vision to make the entire dining experience personal.

Crystal Blue:  Tell us more about Sunset Bay!  What a gorgeous property!!

Mise En Place:  Sunset Bay is a private residence in the Prospect area of Grand Cayman.  We have been fortunate enough to have been granted permission to use Sunset Bay as a venue for weddings and other special events.  The property overlooks the water, has a beautiful garden as well as a beach and, as the name implies, has gorgeous sunsets! 

Here are some photos of the creations of Mise En Place as well as Sunset Bay.  To find out more about Sean and his team, click here.  To see what Sunset Bay has to offer, click here.

photo credit::

Cake:: David Wolfe Photography

Ceremony::  David Wolfe Photography

Sunset Bay at night :: David Wolfe Photography

Crystal Blue Vendor Feature :: Fireworks Limited

Let’s start this day with a BANG!  Sorry, had to do it…  Today we would like to introduce you to Fireworks Limited.  Want to really punctuate your wedding?  What better way than a breathtaking fireworks show! 

Crystal Blue :: Describe your company to us.

Fireworks Limited ::  We are a full service commercial pyrotechnics display company.  We have a pyrotechnician on staff to design and produce our shows so they are always creatively arranged and designed to work with our client’s budget and design criteria. 

Crystal Blue :: Describe the process that you go through with a couple.

Fireworks Limited :: We work with our clients in conjunction with their venue or wedding planner.  Working with a couple or venue we first expectations the client has and the amount they are expecting to spend.  We talk budget not to work to ‘spend it all’ but rather to more accurately produce a proposal that balances show length or artistic expectations with the budget.  Once the budget and design expectations are addressed we generate a proposal with an outline of the show description and execute a booking contract with the client.  From the booking we take care of all other details for example securing all fire department permits, civil aviation permits, insurance coverage (with specific named insureds if requested), and arrange the safe shoot location including barge if water based as most shows in Cayman tend to be.  All that is left for the client is to enjoy the show!

Crystal Blue ::  Tell us something that we wouldn’t know just by looking on your website.

Fireworks Limited :: You don’t have to be locked into the ‘typical’ show of 5 minutes with an opener, a body section and a grand finale.  We love to get creative and welcome working on alternative concepts for shows such as all colour specific (white’s and blue’s only for example), or taking the P-Diddy White Party approach and shooting one firework every minute…all night long…  We are only limited by imagination!

Crystal Blue :: If you could give one piece of advice to couples, what would it be?

Fireworks Limited :: An intense and artistic 1-3 minute show is far more memorable than a ‘thin’ 5-8 min show produced against the same budget.  Always focus on the product going into the sky than the amount of time from start to finish.  You will end up with an incredible show!

Thank you guys for taking the time to “speak” with us today and introduce yourselves to our readers!!!  I  personally think that a fireworks show makes an incredible and lasting impression on all of your guests and if the budget allows, go for it!! 

See more about Fireworks Limited here.

photo credit ::  David Wolfe Photography

Crystal Blue Top 10 :: Frequently Asked Questions

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 Photographer :: David Wolfe

I mentioned last week we would be re-introducing you to our favorite photographers.  Below is our interview with David Wolfe.  Enjoy!

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It is with great pleasure that I introduce you to photographer, David Wolfe!  I started working with David on one of the very first weddings I ever planned.  He doesn’t know this (well, now he does) but before I met him I was a little nervous and quite intimidated.  I had heard so many amazing thing about him and here I was– just a newbie! 

Anyway, when he arrived, I was instantly impressed with his down to earth personality, how he immediately made the couple feel so comfortable and just his overall gentle demeanor.  Then, a few days later, I saw the first of the images.  One word, WOW!!!  He really captured more than just the moments but the personalities of the couple and the emotions behind the moments. 

I recently caught up with David to chat with him more about his philosophy, style, etc.  and here’s what he had to say. 

Crystal Blue:  How long have you been photographing weddings?

DW:  For about 20 years!  I shoot about 60-80 weddings per year, so if you do the math, that puts me up over the 1000 wedding mark.

Crystal Blue:  Wow!  That’s amazing!  How do you keep things fresh and new?

DW:  I always, always, always, try to do something new at every wedding; something that I’ve never done before.  Something even a little bit risky photographically.  I try to push the edges of the envelope with regard to exposure, shutter speeds in particular.  I’m also very open to suggestions.  The guests at a wedding know the couple far better than I do.  They often come up with ideas about a photo that will mean something that I would never have a clue about, so I listen to their ideas and go with the flow.

Crystal Blue:  With Cayman the destination it is for weddings, you may not meet some of your couples until the day of their wedding.  Can you describe the process you go through with the couple prior to and on the wedding day?

DW:  I like to keep things as simple as possible.  95% of the weddings I shoot are booked via email and I don’t meet with them until literally their wedding day.  That’s the first time I see them so everyone is being nice and smiling a lot just trying to make a good impression as you do when you meet someone for the first time.  I just build on that initial encounter and try to nurture a friendship by the end of the day.

Crystal Blue:  If someone were to ask, “What is your Style”, how would you describe it?

DW:  I would say very “clean”, having a strong focus on the subject without distracting backgrounds.  I started out working for real newspapers in Tennessee so the photo-journalistic style is ingrained in me.  “Candids” are my favorite.

Crystal Blue:  Newspapers to weddings….Tennessee to Cayman…interesting!!!  What is your favorite part most weddings?

DW:  Being a part of the party!  Everyone at a Cayman Islands wedding is having fun.  I like to have fun with them!

Too right!!!  Thank so much for chatting with us, David!!!!   Do you have any questions for David?  If so, leave a comment below and we will follow up for you.

To see some of David’s work, visit his page in Crystal Blue Vendors.  David was also the featured photographer on yesterday’s real wedding of Katherin and Matt.

Cayman Islands Wedding Videographer :: Apex Video Solutions

You have seen a lot of the images our Cayman Islands photographers have to offer and today we are going to put it into motion!   Your wedding day goes by so fast it’s hard to take it all in…this is where a videographer can capture moments that remind you why you were laughing in “that” photo or what the exact words of the minister were.

Today we introduce you to Apex Video Solutions.  Apex has been in the Cayman Islands for over 11 years and during this time, they have captured many of these moments on video, for you to relive year after year.

Crystal Blue ::  Describe the process that you go through with a couple

Apex :: When a wedding client calls we recommend that they have a look at the demos on our website, get an idea of whether they prefer one or two camera coverage and whether they prefer our Basic or our Advanced Editing services.

We don’t have “package pricing”, instead we have priced our services in such a way to give our clients the most control and flexibility so that they can pick the right combination to fit into their budget.   We’ve filmed hundreds of weddings over the years and during the consultation process we are more than happy to help answer any questions they may have.

After the wedding, we begin editing.  Each client can be as involved in the editing process as they would like to be, by providing us with songs as well as input as to what they like (or don’t like) in other videos that they have seen. Once the project is complete it is put onto DVD and packaged for delivery.   We retain a master of every project that we do for any future additional copies that our clients might want.

Crystal Blue :: If you could give one piece of advice to couples, what would it be?

Apex ::  If I could give one piece of advice to couples getting married it would be to recognize the immense value in a professionally made video of their wedding day.  It’s a once-in-a-lifetime event and you don’t want to trust the responsibility of capturing your treasured memories to “Uncle Bob”.  A video of your Wedding Day is something you, your children, and your grand-children will cherish as the years go by and the value of capturing all of the sights and sounds as you say your vows and a tear runs down her cheek is truly priceless.

So, break out the popcorn because here are some examples of video Apex has kindly shared ::

Olivia & Arturo :: Part 1

Olivia & Arturo :: Part 2

Kimberly & Matthew

Caren & Abel

Will you be having a videographer at your wedding?  We want to know!

Cayman Islands Hotel :: Little Cayman Beach Resort

Good morning!  Today we are heading over to Little Cayman, the smallest of the three Cayman Islands.  I have to tell you, Little Cayman is one of my favorite places in the world!  Whenever my husband and I go, we pack our swimsuits, dive gear and a book and we’re all set! 

Little Cayman Beach Resort is the largest hotel on Little (as it is referred to by those who live there).  I’ve stayed there before and it’s great.  The staff is fantastic, the rooms have all just been remodeled and it’s where the karaoke happens every Friday night!  It’s perfect for a wedding for just the two of you or for more–they can accommodate up to approximately 70 guests.

Next time you come down, make sure you take a few days and head over to Little Cayman.  You will not be disappointed!

You can learn more about Little Cayman Beach Resort here.

Cayman Islands Accommodation :: Cayman Castle

With yesterday’s Cayman Islands Real Wedding feature taking place at the Cayman Castle, I thought it only appropriate to feature the Castle in today’s Crystal Blue Vendor Feature. 

The Castle, located on the eastern end of the island is one-of-a-kind.  Not only does it provide stunning panoramic views, but it is large enough (with the guest house) to sleep up to twelve adults, offers 200+ feet of sandy beach, beach loungers, kayaks and more. 

If your party consists of more than twelve, The Reef is just down the road, happy to welcome your guests anytime!  There are also a few restaurants close to the Cayman Castle and, as you read yesterday, Mise En Place and Food for Thought are always on hand to cater any event at the Castle.   

Or, you can just relax on the beach….

Learn more about the Cayman Castle here and check out the Castle wedding we featured yesterday here.   Have a great weekend!!!

Photos courtey of Cayman Castle website.  

News from Crystal Blue Vendors

When are vendors have exciting things happen, we want to share the news with you!  Here’s this week’s vendor scoop…

Celebrations

Ms. Jo, the creator of Celebrations has been named to the “Destination Weddings and Honeymoons” A-list!  Read more about it here and find out more about Celebrations here.  Congratulations Ms. Jo–very exciting and very much deserved!

The Garter Girl

Julianne Smith, the official Garter Girl announced the launch party for her 2010 collection of stylish garters.  If you are in the Washington DC area or if you just want to make a trip, this is not to be missed!!  See the details and save the date here and don’t forget to order your custom garter for your upcoming wedding!

Paloma’s Nest 

Last week Paloma’s Nest launched a brand new website!  In addition to viewing all of Caroline’s beautiful pieces, you can order right off of  the site as well!  Creator of the original Ring Bearer Bowl, Caroline has a number of different keepsakes to choose from to make your day extra special.  Check out the site here.

Such exciting news for all of you and we couldn’t be happier! 

Are you a Crystal Blue Vendor and have some news to share?  Send me an email!

 

 

Crystal Blue Vendor Feature :: Simply Weddings

Today we would like to introduce you to Joy Basdeo of Simply Weddings.  Joy is one of the only civil celebrants in the Cayman Islands and specializes in visitor cruise weddings, however, she also performs ceremonies and vow renewals  for local residents and stay over guests.  I spoke with Joy to find out more about her process with each couple and wanted to share it with you.

Crystal Blue :: Joy, how long have you been in business and can you describe your services?

Joy ::  I started working with my mother at Cayman Weddings and was there for 14 years!  I obtained my license and went out on my own in early 2008.   Our company provides the legal requirements for both visitor and local weddings (note to readers, the legal requirements are different if you are a local resident versus a visitor).  We can handle simple planning arrangements and specialize in visitor cruise weddings. 

Crystal Blue :: Can you tell me the process you go through with each couple?

Joy ::  The process starts when we are contacted by the couple, usually through our web-site, blog or Facebook page.  We then send them an application form, and a description of our packages.  If it is to be a custom wedding we will give them an approximation of what their wedding will cost. 

We get the couple to send their documentation in advance so that I can evaluate it.  This is important, since under the Cayman Islands Marriage Law, the onus is on me as the Marriage Officer to evaluate whether the couple is free in law to marry.  Such an evaluation protects the integrity of the Cayman Islands as a place where legal marriages (i.e. recognized in the couple’s home country) are performed.

If it is a cruise wedding, we meet the couple on the day, complete the final documentation, finalise the order and details of the wedding ceremony, provide a place for the couple to get ready and take them to their chosen wedding location.

If the couple have chosen one of our packages, we also provide photography, flowers, champagne, wedding cake or whatever additional service they have booked.

Crystal Blue :: That’s terrific!  When people arrive on cruise ships they are here for such a short time, it is great that they have someone to handle all of the details so they can just enjoy themselves.   Tell us about your favorite wedding.

Joy ::  It is easier for me to tell you about my favourite couples.  Many of my couples stay in touch with me for years after the wedding, and come back and  see me if they are revisiting the island.  In my Top Ten clients are the “Maniacs” a couple from Maine I married a few years ago. The husband is a policeman, and the couple’s best friends who attended as witnesses, are firefighters.  They were here as stay-over visitors. I did the ceremony at what used to be called Bus Stop 29, on Seven Mile Beach.  (I do a lot of ceremonies for policemen, firefighters and armed services personnel and I always give them a complimentary bottle of champagne in appreciation for the work they do to protect us every day.)  This wedding was such fun!  I think because the people involved were such nice young people, and still happily married!

Crystal Blue ::  What a fun couple–and unique venue, I might say!  If you could give one piece of advice to couples, what would it be?

Joy ::  Fortunately I do have the opportunity to give couples advice, in the part of the wedding ceremony which is called  “The Charge”.   I like to say, as part of this advice, “lean on each other’s strengths, and forgive each other’s weaknesses”.  I have been married to my husband for almost 40 years, and I know how important it is to understand and appreciate your partner’s qualities.

Crystal Blue ::  That is so true!!!!  Thank you Joy for talking with us today!!!  One little fun fact about Joy that she didn’t mention…she wears a hat at every ceremony!

You can read more about Simply Weddings here.

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