Say I Do in Paradise: Planning the Perfect Destination Wedding

Destination weddings are becoming increasingly popular for their ability to combine stunning settings, intimate celebrations, and seamless transitions into honeymoons. If you’ve been dreaming of saying your vows in a tropical Paradise, Nassau & Paradise Island in The Bahamas is the perfect backdrop. With miles of pristine white-sand beaches, breathtaking ocean views, and venues that cater to celebrations of all sizes, your dream wedding is just a flight away. To make planning effortless, here’s a timeline layered with the latest trends and expert tips to guide you every step of the way.

12 Months Before: Lay the Foundation

What to Do:

• Set your wedding budget and select your date.
• Choose a location and begin exploring venues. Nassau & Paradise Island offer a variety of options, from luxurious resorts to intimate beachfront settings. Many venues include wedding packages tailored to different budgets.
• Research airfare and room rates for you and your guests.
• Contact an on-site wedding coordinator to start planning. Their local expertise ensures every detail aligns with your vision.
• Review the legal requirements for obtaining a marriage license in The Bahamas, which include being in the country for at least 24 hours before applying.
   

Trend Alert: Couples in 2024 are embracing eco-friendly elegance by incorporating locally sourced florals and sustainable décor into their celebrations. Consider selecting venues that prioritise environmental consciousness to honour the island’s natural beauty.
 

9 Months Before: Bring Your Vision to Life

What to Do:

• Visit Nassau & Paradise Island to meet your wedding coordinator, tour the venue, and finalise guest accommodations. Many resorts offer group discounts for room blocks.
• Shop for wedding attire.
• Create a guest list and begin planning pre-wedding events.

Trend Alert: Welcome parties are gaining popularity as a way to immerse guests in Bahamian culture. Imagine a beachfront gathering with live music, tropical cocktails, and locally inspired cuisine to set the tone for your celebration.

6 Months Before: Lock in the Details

What to Do:

• Reserve a block of rooms and book travel arrangements for you and your guests.
• Purchase travel and wedding insurance for peace of mind.
• Send out save-the-dates that include hotel information for easy booking.
• Work with your coordinator to finalise your cake, flowers, menu, and décor.
• Book your officiant and order wedding party attire.
• Ensure your passport is valid and apply for a new one if needed.

Trend Alert: Include local flavours in your wedding menu. Fresh seafood from The Bahamas, such as conch fritters and grilled snapper, adds a delicious touch of authenticity to your celebration.

3 Months Before: Get Personal

What to Do:

• Send out formal invitations with RSVP instructions and details about your wedding events.
• Create a wedding day itinerary to keep everything organised.

Trend Alert: Thoughtful guest experiences are a hallmark of destination weddings. Include a packing list and suggestions for local activities on your wedding website. For an extra personal touch, assemble welcome baskets with Bahamian treats and information about the island’s attractions.

2 Months Before: Final Preparations

What to Do:

• Create a seating chart.
• Schedule a salon appointment to plan your wedding day look.

Trend Alert: Many couples are incorporating local traditions into their ceremonies, adding a unique touch that connects them to the culture. We suggest incorporating a Junkanoo Rush-Out as part of your celebration—it's a vibrant, festive way to honour Bahamian heritage and make your day even more memorable. Imagine the energy and excitement as colourful dancers and drummers bring your ceremony to life!

1 Month Before: Finalize Every Detail

What to Do:

• Confirm all arrangements with your wedding coordinator and vendors.
• Finalise your vows, music selections, and event itinerary.
• Release any unused rooms from your reserved block.

Trend Alert: Sunset or moonlit beach ceremonies continue to be timeless favourites. The stunning natural beauty of Nassau & Paradise Island’s beaches provides unforgettable backdrops.

Two Weeks Before: Prepare for Paradise

What to Do:

• Ship any wedding favours or printed materials, such as programs, to the resort.
• Verify that you have all the required documents for your marriage license.

One Week Before: Arrive and Relax

What to Do:

• Travel to your wedding destination and pick up your marriage license. (Remember: You must be in The Bahamas for at least 24 hours before applying.)
• Share your contact details with your wedding party for seamless communication.
• Conduct a final check-in with your coordinator to ensure everything is ready.

Trend Alert: Farewell events, like a Paradise Island Sunset Cruise, are becoming a popular way to thank guests for celebrating with you. Navigating the turquoise waters is a perfect send-off.

On Your Wedding Day: Celebrate!

What to Do:

• Relax and savour every moment of your dream destination wedding in Paradise.
   

Why Choose Nassau & Paradise Island?

• Convenience: With nonstop flights from many major US cities, it’s easy for you and your guests to arrive stress-free.
• Stunning Venues: From timeless beach ceremonies to luxurious resorts, Nassau & Paradise Island offer versatile options to suit every couple’s style.
• Local Expertise: On-site wedding coordinators and vendors ensure every detail is handled, allowing you to focus on enjoying your big day.
• Memorable Guest Experiences: The Bahamas’ vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking scenery provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you and your loved ones.

Are you ready to start planning your destination wedding in Paradise? Let Nassau & Paradise Island bring your dream day to life!