Cayman Islands Real Wedding :: Alexis and Elliot, Part 2

I am so in love with this wedding (if you couldn’t tell already!).  Almost next door to the private residence where they had the ceremony is the Reef Grill, where they had their reception.  Afterwards everyone partied the night away at the Royal Palms complete with a trunk full of fun costume dress items. 

What’s that you say?  You want to know more??  Here you go…

Crystal Blue ::  Tell me more about it.  Where did you stay, what were your favorite moments, etc. 

Alexis ::  We all stayed at the Sunshine Suites down the road from the private home.  It’s a great little place, very convenient and just across the road from the beach.  Favorite moments…it’s hard to pick one or two moments from the day.  Just looking into Elliot’s eyes and realizing that our dreams were happening. Every moment that we locked eyes from the vows, to the photos, to our first dance. Each time I felt so safe and so at ease, nothing made more sense than being in that moment with him. 

Crystal Blue ::  That’s so romantic and very sweet!!!  I love all of the personal touches of your weddings and how you designed and made almost everything yourself.  What was your favorite design element?

Alexis :: It’s a toss up between my dress and my invitations!  The dress was only the third or fourth I tried on–I just knew!!

Crystal Blue ::  Well it is absolutely stunning!  Thank you so much for sharing your day with us!!! 

Vendors who made this day happen ::

Coordination ::  Celebrations

Photography ::  Rebecca Davidson Photography

Reception venue ::  The Reef Grill

Cayman Islands Real Wedding :: Alexis and Elliot

Good morning lovelies!  I hope you had a nice weekend and are ready for some fun today.  I was digging in the Crystal Blue Archives and came across this Grand Cayman wedding we featured back in our early days.  I loved it then and still love it so much now!  This is just part one, come back tomorrow for part two!!

Alexis is a designer so almost all of the elements you see she’s designed and made, including the gorgeous bridesmaids bouquets, invitations, escort cards, and table decor. 

The ceremony was held at a private home on Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman.  I have to tell you,  I walk by this home at least once a week and it always catches my attention.  It is absolutely gorgeous in an un-pretentious way and just the perfect place for this fun couple! 

Don’t you just L-O-V-E everything about this wedding???  I do!!!

Back in a bit with some more for you!

photo credit ::  Rebecca Davidson Photography

Crystal Blue Top 10 :: Excursions to plan for your guests

So you’re coming to Cayman for your destination wedding and you would like to plan an excursion or two for you and your guests.  What to do, what to do…here are our top 10 ideas for you!

10 ::  Without a doubt, Stingray City.  We mentioned the place earlier today and it’s a must-do.  No, you can’t have lunch there or do any shopping, but you can play with the stingrays, feed them, hold them and love them.  It’s all natural habitat, but they are the sweetest stingrays in the world!

9 ::  Nighttime Kayak Tour.  Cayman Kayaks takes you to Cayman’s Mangroves, you hop in a kayak and explore.  Because it’s nighttime, your movement awakens the bioluminescence for an amazing aqua blue glow.  It is a truly one of a kind experience!

8 ::  Red Sail Sunset Cruise.  Whether you charter one of the lovely Red Sail Catamarans or join in with another group, this cruise is sure not to disappoint.  Sail while you watch the gorgeous Cayman Islands sunsets, enjoy a lovely beverage and let your guests get to know each other.

7 :: Deep Sea Fishing.  Charter a boat and take your guests deep sea fishing.  Added bonus…you get to keep and eat anything you catch!!!!

6 ::  Cayman Safari.  If you’re not into the water thing, take your group on a Cayman Safari.  This fun tour covers a number of Cayman landmarks like Pedro St. James, the Botanical Gardens and more.  Enjoy a Cayman Style lunch as well!

5 ::  Organize a Rum tasting.  The Caribbean produces some of the finest rums–why not try them?  Jeremy from Blackbeards would be happy to work with you and organize a rum tasting for you and your guests. 

4 ::  Explore the caves!  If you’re in Cayman Brac, this is something you do not want to miss.  There are several to check out–make a game of it!!

3 :: Go snorkeling.  Cayman boasts some of the nicest reef in the Caribbean and if you don’t dive, you must at least try snorkeling.  Bloody Bay wall off of Little Cayman is one of the best most gorgeous spots I’ve ever been–not to be missed!  You can charter a boat for your group, or go along with others.  You’re sure to spot some beautiful treasures regardless of which island you’re on and what sites you see.

2 ::  Cockails and live music on the Paseo.  Throughout the week this main street of Camana Bay entertains with various different local musical artists.  Take your group here and have some cocktails, nibbles or dinner at Ortanique  .  You all will be sure to enjoy!!

1 ::  Beach Barbecue.  You’re at the beach, so you might as well!  The team from Mise En Place can create a fun and yummy menu.  Pair that with some tiki torches, a steel drummer and a fire dancer and you’re in business!

Crystal Blue Planning tip :: To pay or not to pay

A question frequently asked by many couples is this…”I want my guests to do everything together, but do not want to pay for EVERYTHING.  What do I HAVE to pay for and what are some ideas for getting together that won’t blow my budget?”

Here are your answers…

What you HAVE to pay for :: 

You have to pay for the same things you would pay for if you were having a wedding at home.  These costs include the ceremony and reception, favors, the brides hair and makeup (and if you’re feeling generous, the bridal party hair and makeup as well), bridal party transportation (if necessary), your photographer, videographer, flowers, coordinator, officiant and all of the other bits and pieces that go into producing your wedding day. 

If you can, work into your budget the cost to transport your guests to and from the ceremony and reception venue.  It’s not a requirement, however, they gone to some expense to be with you on your day and it is a very nice gesture to get them that little last way on your dime.

If your budget allows ::

Plan an excursion as a treat for you and your guests.  Charter a boat and take them to Stingray city for an afternoon.  Go on a sunset catamaran sail one evening.  Head out into the blue and do some deep sea fishing.  Not only will your guests appreciate this treat but they will have the opportunity to meet the others and spend quality time with you.

If your budget does not allow ::

You can still do things together, however, you must make it clear to your guests that you are not paying for it.  (Of course there are tactful ways to do this!) 

Some other ideas…

If you have rented a villa, stock your fridge with drinks and snacks and hang out on the beach outside of your villa for the day.  Make it an open house–anyone can stop by anytime and you are ready for some low maintenance entertaining (e.g. go help yourself to a drink or a snack).  If your budget doesn’t allow for the stock, tell them it’s BYO!

Tell your guests to meet up at XYZ bar for happy hour.  If you can, buy the first round.  If not, don’t. 

The most important thing is that you are relaxed and having a good time.  If you are, your guests are and regardless of who pays for what, everyone will have some fantastic memories of your wedding for many years to come!!!

Are you planning a destination wedding to the Cayman Islands or elsewhere?  What questions can we answer for you?

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 Inspired Storyboard :: White Sand Beach

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 :: Rebecca Davidson

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 Real Wedding :: Trish and Michael

We’re back this week after a fantastic week at Engage!10.  Let me tell you, we’re rejuvinated, remotivated and excited for some changes we are going to be making to make your experience at Crystal Blue more meaningful and exciting!!!

Today, we are sharing Trish and Michael’s wedding with you.  Melissa Wolfe did a great job at capturing all of the details of this fab wedding and Trish and Michael were kind enough to share with us their thoughts and the story behind the couple!!

I always wonder why people choose Cayman as their destination….here’s what the couple said:

I wanted a Caribbean island with white sand and clear blue water.  I knew (only from one visit via a cruise ship, a lot of pictures, and word of mouth) that Seven Mile beach offered that.  Compared to many islands, travel was easier for our 24 guests that came from 7 different states.  We also wanted an English speaking island/country where the marriage ceremony would actually be legal.  I don’t think we could have been happier with the choice of any other island.

(I think it was a perfect choice, too!!)

The couple exchanged vows on Seven Mile Beach, at the Westin Casuarina Resort and Spa.  After the sunset, they enjoyed an evening of dinner and dancing beachside!

The bride hand stamped all of her stationery with the palm tree logo she found.  This added a beachy look to the day while keeping the elements classy and coordinated.  They chose pink to compliment the aqua color (my fav!) which made a beautiful color combination. 

The cake was made by the fantastic pastry chef at the Westin and decorated with local bougainvillea. 

All in all, it was a great night!  The group danced the night away under the stars and the bride even got to play DJ for a while!  Congratulations to you both and thank you for allowing us to share your wedding!

Providers who made this day happen ::

Accommodation ::  The Westin Casuarina Resort and Spa

Flowers ::  Celebrations

Food, Beverage and Venue ::  The Westin Casuarina Resort and Spa

Photography ::  Better Angle

Rehearsal Dinner ::  Deckers

Cayman Islands Real Wedding :: Courtney and Adam

Today’s wedding is filled with such tropical goodness, I thought you would all enjoy a look!  From the colorful flowers to the shoe valet to the thatch woven fans the details just scream “beach wedding”. 

I’m starting you off with the old Cayman Craft Market.  The bright aqua building with the tin roof–a great example of old school Cayman architecture. 

And the flowers…so bright and cheerful!  They just make me smile!

Like with any beach wedding, you can leave the stilettos at home.  Shoes are optional and you can check them here!

And my favorite one from these two…the bride and groom, sitting on a sea wall, eating island patties.  Check out their “we tied the knot” sign.  Instead of a guest book, they had their guests write notes on postcards that they hung from the sign.  Very cute!!

photo credit ::  A Thousand Words Photography

Cayman Islands Real Wedding :: Kristin and Howie, Part 2

We’re back with more red details from this fun couple! 

During the reception the couple heard from many of their friends and family with heartfelt speeches (all written on their iphones), fun games and dancing the night away.  Bona Fide got the party started with their amazing musical talent and everyone danced the night away!!

Providers who made this day happen ::

Accommodation ::  Grand Cayman Marriott

Beauty ::  La Mer Spa

Coordination and design ::  Octopus Events

Event Rentals ::  Massive Equipment

Floral :: Every Bloomin’ Thing

Lighting ::  Intec Research

Music :: Bona Fide

Transportation :: Grand Limousine

Venue, Food and Beverage :: Grand Old House

photo credit :: Craig Wolfrom

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