We asked Cayman Islands wedding expert and founder of Crystal Blue Weddings, Danielle Cococcia about getting married in the beautiful country she calls home. As an American herself, she had to learn the legal requirements, the do’s and don’ts and what makes for smooth sailing for a destination wedding in the Cayman Islands and today she’s here to share her insights with us!
Q: So, what are the legal requirements to get married in the Cayman Islands?
The Cayman Islands Government makes it very easy for non-residents to get married. There is no waiting period and you must be at least 18 years of age. You will need proof of age (passport or your original birth certificate and a photo ID), proof of marital status (if you have been married before you will need to supply your divorce decree or death certificate), and your Cayman Islands Immigration Card (which you will receive upon arriving to the Island). Lastly, you will need to hire a Cayman Islands Marriage Officer who will assist you in obtaining your non-resident marriage license and two witnesses over the age of 18 to be present during the ceremony. That simple!
Q: Do you recommend any sites, services, or helpful places to make this a smoother process and/or to gather additional information?
The team at Crystal Blue Wedding Studio is always here to provide guidance if needed. In addition there is also the Department of Tourism wedding website, which is very helpful. Personally I always recommend hiring a local planner to assist with the entire process, even if it’s just the two of you!
Q: What about all you need on the big day? Do you recommend shipping, buying local, or carrying on and how should couples plan accordingly?
The Cayman Islands has a huge array of extremely talented service and product providers. The on-island providers can produce a wedding of 2 or 2000, from the most simple to the most elaborate, with the quality and service you would expect and receive anywhere else in the world. There’s no need to bring anything in with you!
Q: Grand Cayman, the largest and most visited of the islands is the place most people pick for their destination wedding. What might we not know about Grand Cayman that can impact the planning?
On Sundays, there is a no music-no dancing law. A special permit is required to get around this and must be applied for by your venue (i.e. whoever holds the liquor license).
Who knew!
Q: If someone is considering Grand Cayman as their wedding location, do you have any favorite places you recommend?
Seven Mile Beach is a favorite ceremony location – you just can’t beat the back drop! For a reception, it’s too hard to narrow it down so I’ll give you my top four (in no particular order)…LUCA, The Wharf, Sunset Bay and Papagallos. They are all very different, one from the next, but equally beautiful with amazing service, food, and ambiance!
Thanks so much Danielle for sharing your insights with us! We can’t wait to come back and visit you very soon!
For more information, ideas and inspiration for your Cayman Islands destination wedding, check out Danielle’s site, Crystal Blue Weddings.
Photo Credits: Top Two Images: Aaron Rebarchek Photography, All Other Images: Rebecca Davison Photography
