Jamaica Weddings

There are so many reasons to say “I Do” in Jamaica Mon! For the couple looking for a sunset wedding, I can’t think of a better location than the island of Jamaica. Known for its laid back and worry free vibe, they also make your big day as easy as possible with only a few requirements.

What better place for a union than in a country with the motto “Out of many, one people”? The most difficult challenge you and your groom may face, is deciding where in Jamaica? Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios and Runaway Bay, all offer beautiful locations for your big day.

I’m a huge fan of all-inclusive resorts, not only for the value but for the “fun factor” they will provide both you and your guests. Not having to worry about paying for food and drinks lifts such a huge weight off your shoulders that the vacation ends up being so much more care free and enjoyable. As such, I’d like to share a few all-inclusive options available in Jamaica.

There are 9 different Sandals Resorts in Jamaica. With resorts in Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios, and Whitehouse area, they offer a FREE All Inclusive Wedding Package with a 6 night minimum stay. Sandals also offers you a $500 credit if you choose to design your own wedding instead of using the free package. Note: Sandals Resorts only allow couples, no singles or children. Bride’s Magazine 2011 voted Sandals Resorts as the top all inclusive brand.

Couples Resorts have 4 individual resorts in Jamaica that offer a FREE Jamaica Wedding Package with a six night minimum stay. Couples Tower Isle and Sans Souci (ranked #1 all inclusive resort in the Caribbean by Travel + Leisure) located on Ocho Rios or, Couples Negril and Swept Away both located on Negril. Additional government processing fees are required, and these resorts are for adult couples only. I have personally stayed at Swept Away twice over the course of about 10 years and it was simply AMAZING both times. I loved everything about the resort and always recommend it to friends. 

What does a wedding at Couples include? A personal stateside wedding planner, on property wedding coordinator, wedding officiant, marriage certificate, celebratory t-shirts for Bride & Groom, designer wedding cake, fresh floral arrangements, sparkling wine, dock for MP3 Player/iPod, exclusive Wedding/Honeymoon registry, professional photo shoot and automated online wedding calendar.

For those of us who want a family friendly all-inclusive option, there are two Beaches Resorts in Jamaica, located in Ocho Rios and Negril that offer a FREE all inclusive Caribbean Wedding Package with a six night minimum stay. Beaches has six different wedding themes to choose from and all ages are welcome. Something to consider: book a three night wedding stay at Beaches with the whole family, and then escape for some alone time with a 3 night couples only getaway at a Sandals Resort. (combined stay qualifies for the free wedding!!)

All Beaches weddings include: Personal Wedding Planner at the resort, dedicated Wedding Team at the resort, preparation of marriage documents, pre-recorded musical accompaniment, reception for bridal couple and 6 guests, wedding gift, personal wedding website, Sandals Gift Registry, special Honeymoon dinner for newlyweds, one 5×7 honeymoon photograph, decorated honeymoon room and mimosa breakfast in bed.

Riu Palace in Montego Bay offers a FREE inclusive wedding package with a minimum of five rooms booked for a minimum three night stay. The basic package at Hotel Riu includes: Wedding planner, bridal bouquet, decoration for the ceremony location, matching boutonniere for the groom, cd or recorded music during the ceremony, semi private dinner for the couple and wedding guests at one of their specialty restaurants, wedding cake for the couple and 10 wedding guests or less, sparkling wine for the couple and 10 wedding guests or less (during the main toast only), 10% discount on all spa treatments for the bride and groom and wedding guests. Those looking for extra touches or something more extravagant can choose from a classic, royal or caprice package.

Requirements for weddings in Jamaica:

• You must be at least 18 years of age
• Arrive on the island a minimum of 48 hours prior to the wedding.
• State-issued birth certificates; please note that Passports will not be accepted in lieu of birth certificates
• Copy of Photo ID or Passport
• If either the bride or groom has been divorced, a final complete divorce decree
• If widowed, a state issued death certificate with related marriage certificate
• If applicable, legal name change or legal adoption documents
• If any original documentation is issued in a language other than English, they must be professionally translated into English and included in the documents submitted.
• Do not supply original documents as they will not be returned; they are kept by the Jamaican Government. (All documents must be submitted 60 days prior to the wedding)