Enveloped by the clear blue Caribbean Sea in the U.S. Virgin Islands sits one of Marriott’s premier properties: Frenchman’s Reef and Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort. From its vantage point on a bluff, the daytime views are exquisite and at night, the twinkling lights surrounding the harbor are magical.  

Planning a destination wedding at the resort couldn’t be easier with the depth of experience provided by their in-house wedding professionals. The most difficult part may be choosing from among the many stunning locations on property for the ceremony, reception and other events you may want to include as part of your wedding getaway. One favorite is the secluded gazebo garden with its azure sea backdrop, but you can also exchange vows with your toes sinking in a powdery sand beach or on one of the decks overlooking the harbor. While most ceremonies take place outdoors, the resort has numerous plan “B” locations for those occasional tropical showers.

If you are like most couples planning a wedding away from home, one of your top priorities is the experience your guests will have at your chosen destination. Your list of requirements will no doubt include comfortable and luxurious accommodations and a multitude of unique activities. Great dining and guest rooms with outstanding views and comfy beds are all part of the Frenchman’s Reef experience. The Adventure Center in the lobby of Frenchman’s Reef is the epicenter of activities for all ages and preferences: from safari excursions on the neighboring island of St. John to snorkel sails, fishing expeditions and shark or turtle encounters. One not-to-miss activity is the night kayaking tour in which you explore the nocturnal life beneath the water in kayaks fitted with clear bottoms and LED lights.

When pampering is on the agenda, you won’t want to miss visiting the on-site Lazule Sea Spa. Indulge in a sumptuous sugar scrub or hot stone massage followed by sipping Champagne in the private pool with spectacular seaside views reserved exclusively for spa guests.

Passports are not required and wedding legalities are straightforward in the U.S. Virgin Islands, so if you are looking for a tropical island setting for your easy-to-plan destination wedding, put St. Thomas on your “places to consider” list.

This article first appeared in Destination I Do’s Fall/Winter 2015 issue. You can order a copy here.