Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Destination Wedding Antigua: This Couple's Homecoming!

Words by Courtney Kellar

Words by Courtney Cox

Leslie and Summer are an NYC couple who knew a destination weddingwas in their future. Between having family from all over the United States and a groom dead-set on a particular destination – their St. Johns, Antigua wedding was a sure thing. “Antigua was the natural choice for us because Leslie’s family is from there and I knew if I was going to marry him, Antigua would be the only way,” recalls Summer.

Thankfully, the groom chose well and the lovely beachside location was a perfect fit for the couple and their guests. Their host – Sandals Grande Antigua. It was a one-stop-shop for Leslie and Summer and was the perfect way to have a somewhat “hands off” planning experience. “We love nice things and that goes for accommodations too, so luxury was a must for our guests,” says the bride. “Sandals also had many activities to keep our guests busy when they weren’t with us.”

The couple also had the help of a wedding planner from AnEvent to Remember who ensured that not only did their wedding vision come to life, but that their guests arrived safe and sound. Leslie and Summer chose bright, tropical colors for their décor and maintained a beachy theme throughout. For example, their tables were each names after a beach on the island of Antigua. Thankfully, the couple had 365 to choose from! Another unique aspect was a “blessing stone ceremony.” Each guest was given a small stone and then asked to say a prayer for the newlyweds and cast the stone into the sea.

These newlyweds have no regrets about their destinationwedding and insist a wedding in one of their hometowns would have meant over 300 guests and a far less relaxing atmosphere. Summer has some other words of advice for brides planning their own destination wedding, “Have fun and laugh about things. Weddings can be stressful and mistakes are bound to happen. Keep in mind the important thing is the union of husband and wife and a wedding is only a celebration of that love.”

Vendors:
Photographer: N’Sight Photography
Ceremony/Reception Venue: Sandals Grande Antigua
Wedding Planner: An Event to Remember, LLC
Stationary: Little Magic Cards
Hair Stylist: Ricky Banks
Gown: Rivini
Groom’s Clothing Designer: Banana Republic