Why Here?
The third largest island in the Caribbean, Jamaica offers much more than just sparkling beaches and turquoise water. It also evokes the melodies of Bob Marley, the fragrance of jerk chicken, and the glamour of James Bond -- Ian Fleming wrote the first James Bond book, "Casino Royale," from his seaside home here. Jamaica is also home to many of the Caribbean's best all-inclusive resorts.
What to Know
- Avoid school vacations in February, March, and April when resorts can be full of young kids.
- If resorts aren't your thing, consider bringing a small wedding party to a private villa, where you'll have your own housekeeping staff, chef and security guard.
- Jamaica is much larger than people think (nearly 4500 square miles, roughly the size of Connecticut) and each resort has a different feel, but the best regions for romantic resorts are Negril, Montego Bay, and Ocho Rios.
- The perception that Jamaica is dangerous is overblown, but to abate fears most of the large Jamaican resorts have tight security and are nestled behind iron gates.
Marriage Requirements
Residency requirements: None
Necessary documents: Certified copies of birth certificates that include father's name; proof of divorce or death certificate of former spouse/s (if applicable)
Note: Application must be made in advance of trip by calling the Ministry of National Security at (876) 906-4908. There is a fee for the license and stamp duty.
For More Info: Jamaica Tourist Board, (800) 233-4582, or JamaicaTravel.com
See More: Niche Knot: Destination Weddings , Destination Weddings
share your advice on this topic
Write your own tips and ideas to share with other Knotties.
sosohappy
if anyone is looking for a FABULOUS location/planner in Montego Bay check out Hummingbird Hall (www.Hummingbirdhall.com) . The villa is so stunning and in the same area as the posh hotels (even nicer actually). The rates were AMAZING and the staff made it all fabulous. I'm still on cloud 9 :-)
jenred163
If anyone is looking to hire a photographer, I used Jacklyn Greenberg of JAG Studios, based in CT. I paid for her room and flight. She did an amazing job on our engagement photos and I'm very excited to see the wedding pictures!
jenred163
If anyone is looking to get married in Negril and needs a good travel agent or wedding planner, I'd like to recommend Maura Cullinane (travel agent, maura@carlsoncanton.com) and Isabelle Stewart (wedding planner, weddings@anbell.net). I just worked with both for my 50-person wedding in Negril. I married at a resort and Maura coordinated travel with the guests and negotiated with the hotel on group rates. Isabelle did my gift bags and got prices so low, the resort couldn't match them! If you have any questions I'd be happy to answer them at jenniferlynn213@hotmail.com. - Jen Bryer