Prioritize Your Must-Haves

Start with a list. Sit down together and decide what your must-haves are for the big day. This could be a great photographer, a perfect dress, or a live band. Whatever tops your list, earmark a larger slice of your budget for these key elements.

Compromise is your friend for the less crucial items. Maybe opt for a simpler cake or homemade centerpieces. It’s about striking a balance between your dream wedding and your current budget as a student.

And here’s a thought: to free up more time for wedding prep, consider the option to consult essay writing experts. It can buy you precious moments to focus on planning your perfect day. Just make sure to align your spending with what truly brings your wedding vision to life

Opt for a Creative Venue

When it comes to venues, think outside the traditional chapel. Public parks brim with natural beauty and often only require a small fee for gatherings. Imagine saying your vows beneath a canopy of trees or beside a tranquil lake. Art galleries, with their built-in decor, offer a sophisticated backdrop that’s both unique and cost-effective.

University event spaces can be a goldmine for budget-conscious couples. They’re typically more affordable and may offer discounts for alumni or current students. Each of these venues carries its own charm and character, which can reduce the need for additional decorations. Plus, they can make your celebration feel more intimate and personal, reflecting your journey as students stepping into a new chapter together.

DIY Decorations and Details

Embrace the DIY spirit for your wedding decor. Crafting your own invitations or hand-picking wildflowers for bouquets can add a uniquely personal touch. Use online tutorials to guide you through creating eye-catching features that won’t strain your wallet. For favors, consider homemade goodies that guests will cherish, from baked treats to personalized seed packets for them to plant.

Don’t go it alone—rally your friends and family. A crafting party can turn into a memorable pre-wedding event. It’s not just about saving money; it’s about building memories and putting pieces of yourselves into the details of your day. These personal touches won’t just impress your guests; they’ll make your celebration truly yours.

Simplify the Guest List

Trimming the guest list is a practical move for student budgets. Focus on inviting only those close to you, like family and dear friends. Each guest adds to the venue, catering, and favor costs, so a smaller list means significant savings. Moreover, an intimate gathering heightens the warmth and significance of your ceremony. It allows for meaningful interactions and a cozy, familial vibe. This selectivity not only eases financial strain but also turns your wedding into a cherished gathering with your nearest and dearest, making every congratulatory hug and shared laugh resonate all the more.

Choose Off-Peak Timing

Opt for off-peak wedding dates. Winter months or weekdays often come with discounted rates for venues and services. Vendors have more availability and are typically willing to negotiate prices during these times.

Choosing a less popular day could slash your venue and catering costs substantially. Even photographers and DJs might offer deals to fill their calendars. Such savings can be redirected to other wedding essentials or your future together.

Planning your special day in these periods doesn’t just help with expenses. It also means you’ll likely have your pick of top-tier vendors and locations that might otherwise be booked solid.

Seek Student Discounts and Services

Leverage your student status for discounts. Many vendors offer reduced rates for students, so don’t hesitate to ask. From catering to photography, these discounts can trim your wedding bill.

Your university might provide access to affordable event spaces, equipment rentals, and even student-run services like music and photography. Don’t overlook the talent within your campus community.

When negotiating with vendors, be upfront about your budget constraints. Many are willing to tailor their services to accommodate your needs. The key is to communicate clearly and seek out those who are enthusiastic about supporting student events. These collaborative efforts can lead to substantial cost savings.

Potluck Reception and BYOB

A potluck-style reception is a charming way to cut costs while engaging your guests. Inviting attendees to bring a dish fosters a sense of community and allows everyone to contribute to the feast. It turns your meal into a tapestry of personal favorites and shared recipes.

For drinks, a BYOB approach can significantly dial down your expenses. Guests often enjoy showcasing their favorite wines or craft beers, adding a personalized twist to the celebration. And while they’re bringing a bottle, you can focus on other details, like using the best research paper writing service to keep up with schoolwork as you plan your special day. These collaborative efforts not only save money but also enrich the experience for all.

Smart Attire Choices

Smart attire choices can keep you stylish without the hefty price tag. Renting your wedding dress or suit can offer you the glamour you desire for a fraction of the cost. For those keen on keeping their outfit, off-the-rack options can be just as stunning as bespoke designs.

Consider non-traditional outfits that may come from less conventional stores — perhaps a cocktail dress or a sharp blazer that can be worn again. These choices are not only economical but also add a modern twist to your wedding attire, proving that elegance doesn’t have to be expensive.

Embrace Digital Invitations

Digital invitations are a savvy choice for the eco-conscious couple. They eliminate paper waste and printing costs. With a click, you can send out elegant invites and effortlessly track RSVPs in real time. They offer the added perk of being easy to update if details change. This modern approach isn’t just a nod to the environment and your budget; it simplifies the management of your guest list, making the lead-up to your big day a little less stressful.

Be Your Own DJ

Ditch the DJ and craft your own playlist. This DIY approach lets you personalize your wedding soundtrack, ensuring every song is a favorite. Use a laptop and speakers for a simple setup, or maybe a musically inclined friend can manage the tunes. This not only cuts costs but also keeps the vibe intimate and authentic. Plus, with music streaming services, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect tracks to keep your guests dancing all night long.

Conclusion

A student budget needn’t dim the sparkle of your special day. With creativity and smart choices, a budget-friendly wedding can be just as enchanting. It’s the joy and love that will be remembered, not the extravagance. Embrace the journey of planning together, and let your shared values shine through. In the end, it’s the heartfelt moments that make a celebration truly memorable, proving that less can indeed be more.

Planning a vacation proposal is one of the best ways to ask the love of your life for their hand in marriage. For the grandest romantic gestures, the Caribbean, with its alabaster-hued beaches and mesmerizing blue vistas, sets the perfect stage for a memorable proposal. 

However, it takes more than just a beautiful sight to make your proposal day unforgettable. That is why we’ve rounded up a couple of creative ways that will help you pull off a memorable proposal in the Caribbean. 

#1 Propose at Sunset on a Catamaran Cruise in the Bahamas

The Caribbean is blessed with an endless number of dreamy beaches whose powdery white sand and crystal clear waters serve as the perfect backdrop for popping the question. 

Couples wanting to take their relationship to the next level often propose at the golden hour. That’s mainly because that is the time when the light is the most golden, softest, and dreamiest. 

With pristine white sand and turquoise water, the Bahamas is an excellent destination to plan a dreamy proposal for your beloved. 

Book a trip for two on a catamaran cruise or charter a private boat to sail along the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas. Just when the sun colors the sky in shades of pink and orange, get down on one knee and pop the question. Make sure to tell your beloved why you wish to spend the rest of your life with them. 

The sheer beauty of the moment will be etched in your loved one’s memory forever. Celebrate the resounding “yes” to your question with a candle-lit dinner by the beach. 

#2 Plan an Underwater Proposal in Bonaire

Asking your bae for their hand in marriage while being submerged in water sounds no less than a dreamy proposal. An underwater proposal is perfect for couples who love adventure. You can also pull this off if you wish to do something different for your dearest. 

Famous for its exceptional diving spots, the Caribbean’s Bonaire is a great spot for an underwater proposal. In fact, a man stunned his girlfriend by proposing to her 30 feet under the sea while scuba diving off the Caribbean Island of Bonaire. 

While he hid the ring in a shell, we advise you to opt for a prop ring as a placeholder until you return to the land. That way, you won’t have to worry about losing the ring underwater. You can also use a laminated sign or an underwater slate where you can write your question. 

However, if you wish to pop the question with a real diamond ring, place it in a waterproof ring case. 

A ring cam box will be a better bet if you wish to capture your big moment underwater. That way, you and your beloved can cherish the moment forever. For those unversed, an elegant engagement box that features a built-in camera is known as a ring cam box, notes Leibish. 

Having such a box handy will capture every little detail of your proposal, from popping the question to a resounding “yes.” Therefore, it’s worth the investment. 

#3 Cave Proposal in Puerto Rico

When visiting the Caribbean, a tour of Puerto Rico should be on your travel itinerary. We say so because Puerto Rico is home to hundreds of caves and caverns whose natural views and breathtaking beauty make them a perfect spot for popping the question. 

Cueva Ventana is one popular cave in Puerto Rico where you can plan your proposal. Located on top of a limestone cliff in Arecibo, Cueva Ventana is a large cave that offers stunning views of the Río Grande de Arecibo valley. Its unique ambiance and breathtaking beauty will make your proposal magical.  

For an intimate, adventurous proposal, Camuy Cave Park will be the perfect spot to ask for your beloved’s hand in marriage. Its sparkling crystal formations and underground caves offer a natural and serene setting for popping the question.  

As you explore the beauty of the cave, grab the engagement ring from your pocket, get on one knee, and propose to your sweetheart. Make sure to make arrangements for photographers beforehand so that they capture the once-in-a-life moment with artistry. 

Wrapping Up

The Caribbean has a lot to offer to tourists, from lush forests to clear, pristine waters and sandy beaches. No wonder this sub-region, bursting with natural beauty, is an ideal destination for a proposal that will be cherished for a lifetime. Whether you choose an underwater proposal or a sunset proposal in the middle of the Bahamas, the love of your life will surely be awestruck. 

However, make sure you plan everything in advance. In case you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to a proposal planner. By helping you pull together all the elements of the big day, a proposal planner will help you pull off a picture-perfect proposal. 

However, tying the knot in such a unique locale also calls for meticulous planning when it comes to what you pack for your big day. From sun safety essentials to appropriate beach wedding attire, preparing with purpose is essential. This comprehensive guide provides you with all you need to remember so that your Caribbean wedding will be everything you’ve ever dreamed of.

10 Things to Take With You for Your Caribbean Wedding Day 

Heading to the Caribbean for your big day? We bet you can’t wait! Here’s a handy guide with 10 essential things to take with you as you prepare for your perfect Caribbean wedding.

1. Passport and Travel Documents

Without question, one of the most crucial items for your Caribbean wedding is naturally your passport and other essential travel documents. Remember to pack all the necessary paperwork you’ll need for a smooth journey well in advance. This also includes visas or tourist cards. 

Also, don’t forget about airline tickets and confirmations of hotel bookings. It’s advisable to keep hard copies and digital copies saved on your smartphone for easy access whenever needed. 

2. Wedding Dress and Accessories

When thinking about your wedding dress and accessories for a Caribbean wedding, imagine airy fabrics and light colors that’ll keep you cool. Your accessories should match the look, too. Delicate yet eye-catching pieces, like lab-grown diamonds, are a good choice. 

They offer the same shine as mined diamonds but are often more affordable. For the best selection, you might want to shop women’s lab-diamond rings on websites like Diamondere. 

3. Groom’s Outfit

Being attentive to the Caribbean climate, grooms will want to feel as comfortable as they do stylish. Linen is a great material choice for suits due to its natural breathability and lightweight properties. Choosing light colors such as beige can add a touch of summer freshness. 

Complementing the suit with loafers or boat shoes can prevent discomfort. Don’t forget about subtle accessories such as cufflinks or a pocket square for an extra dose of sophistication.

4. Makeup Kit 

Selecting the right makeup for a Caribbean wedding is pivotal, considering the tropical heat and humid conditions. Opt for waterproof and sweatproof products that won’t melt away under the sun. It may be beneficial to invest in a good quality setting spray to lock your look in place. 

Don’t forget about lip balm with an SPF formula to protect your lips from blazing sun rays. Also, it’s smart to prepare with blotting sheets, which allow for discreet touch-ups throughout the day.

5. Wedding Vows 

Writing down your wedding vows in advance is a critical step for any couple’s big day. Whether they’re passed down from generations, shared with you by a close friend, or personally written by you and your partner, these words of commitment are the highlight of any ceremony. 

Remember to pack them securely with the rest of your belongings. To preserve them, consider housing them in plastic covers until the time of exchange at your blissful beach ceremony.

6. Essential Medications 

Packing essential medications in your luggage should not be overlooked when planning for a destination wedding. If either the bride or groom regularly takes any prescribed medicine for their health, make sure to bring along a sufficient supply to last the duration of your trip.

Besides, taking along some basic over-the-counter medications is also important. Just make sure that you can bring these medicines into the country, either with or without documentation. 

7. Waterproof Camera

A waterproof camera is a must-have addition to your Caribbean wedding packing list. Not only will this provide you with high-quality imagery of your special day, but its water-resistant feature also makes it perfect for further documenting your tropical adventure underwater!

Capturing memories in their raw, authentic form will become an integral part of your wedding experience, enabling you to relive those blissful moments even years later. 

8. Snorkel Gear

While not a typical item on many wedding checklists, bringing snorkel gear for a Caribbean celebration can add an adventurous touch. The Caribbean’s clear blue waters are teeming with vibrant marine life, showcasing some of the most eye-catching underwater sceneries on Earth. 

If you and your partner enjoy water sports, taking a moment to snorkel could become one of the most memorable parts of your trip. Having your own gear ensures comfort and safety, as well. 

9. Insect Repellent

While the Caribbean is famous for its majestic beaches, it also has its share of the great outdoors, which, unfortunately, includes insects. It’s a smart move to pack an effective and skin-friendly insect repellent to avoid any unwanted bug bites or mosquito-related illnesses. 

If your wedding or reception falls during dusk hours, you’ll be especially glad to have protection at your disposal. Carry small spray bottles of insect repellent that can easily fit in a bag. 

10. Swimsuits and Beach Attire

When it comes to your Caribbean wedding and the festivities surrounding it, swimsuits and beach attire are fashion essentials. These items will not only come in handy for pre-wedding activities like a pool party or a boat cruise but also for post-wedding relaxation time. 

Choice of beach attire might include easy cover-ups that make moving between the sand and seaside eateries, bars, or shops a breeze. Swimsuits are also great for Caribbean cruises. 

In Conclusion… 

Stay prepared and remain organized using this handy guide, specifically designed for couples hosting their wedding in a Caribbean paradise. And most importantly, remember that the day is about you and the lifetime bond of love you’re both embarking on, so don’t stress the small stuff! 

Take a relaxed approach, breathe in the salty sea breeze and let every moment unfold naturally. So go ahead, start packing for that tropical fairy tale wedding you’ve always dreamed of!

If you miss your ex and you want to get back together and you want to plan a romantic getaway, you’ve come to the right place! Here’s everything you need to know about planning your trip to the Caribbean to make your ex fall in love with you again. Follow this guide and sweep your ex off their feet and into your arms once more!

Decide if getting back together is the right move

Before you start planning your ideal romantic getaway with your ex-partner, you first need to figure out if that’s even a viable option. Getting back with your ex can often start by going back to the beginning. As it says in the Get Her Back Guide , the first thing you need to do is to figure out why you broke up in the first place. Look at what went wrong, what you could have done better, and what the problems were in the relationship. 

Once you know where the problems were, you can then decide if the relationship is worth fixing and if it’s doable. Think long and hard before making your decision because there’s nothing worse than being on holiday with an ex who wants to stay being your ex. 

Take control but don’t overdo it

If getting back with your ex is your plan, you’ll need to take control of the situation and plan your trip to the Caribbean. You need to have a fixed idea of what you’re looking for, and what you want your romantic trip to look like. Do your research, make some reservations, and take control. Don’t leave all the work to your ex-partner if you want to impress them. 

On the other hand, if you want to get on your ex’s good side when planning your romantic getaway, you cannot be overbearing. To get on their good side, you also need to take into consideration their wants and needs. Whether you’re planning on surprising them or planning it together, you need to include your ex in the process!

Plan with romance in mind

If you want to win back your ex with winning and dining, you need to make sure to put it in the schedule. You can’t expect to woo your ex if you’ve planned nothing but hiking, sightseeing, and crowded tours. Remember to plan your getaway with romance in mind to rekindle your relationship. 

If you’re going to the Caribbean, start by choosing a romantic location to stay in with your ex, and make sure to set the mood. Make sure to plan a romantic candle-lit dinner on the beach or a midnight swim. Plan a romantic walk by the beach, a scavenger hunt of your favorite memories, and get creative. Putting in the work to woo your partner will have them running back to you in no time!

Focus on downtime

Last but not least, when wooing your ex in the Caribbean, you need to focus on just the two of you. Downtime and reconnecting with each other is the most important part of this trip. While having fun activities and dinners is a good distraction, you need to be working on rebuilding your relationship. Start by emptying out the itinerary and leaving more room to relax and get to know each other again. 

Take time to hang out, talk things out, romance each other, and just be present. Remember to be attentive to your ex-partner and to be honest and open with them. Talk about your relationship and remind yourselves why you still love each other and why it’s important to work on things. 

So there you have it! With this guide in mind, you’re ready to plan your trip to the Caribbean and win back your ex in no time! To get back with your ex over a romantic holiday, you first need to take a look at the past and see what went wrong. Once you’ve decided that a romantic getaway is the best course of action, get to work planning! Take control, impress your ex, but let them have a say too!

When planning your trip, remember to keep romance in mind. Don’t crowd your itinerary with things that might mess up the mood, and remember to focus on downtime. Talk it out with your partner, take things slow, and woo them! With a little patience, the right planning, and a lot of luck, your ex will be back with you in no time! Who says? maybe this is the beginning of a long love story. 

Choose your wedding date and location carefully

When planning your perfect Caribbean wedding, one of the most important steps is to carefully select both the date and place. If you choose a destination wedding, make sure to book it several months in advance to ensure that all the details are taken care of and everything runs smoothly. Additionally, look into the seasonal weather conditions so that your special day doesn’t get rained out! Lastly, consider whether a certain time of year aligns with when you want your guests to attend – if they can only make it during peak tourist season or if they prefer an off-peak experience.

Make sure you have an extensive plan

First, it is important to start planning early. The sooner you start, the more time you will have to plan every detail and make sure that everything is just right. Next, make sure you have a budget in mind and stick to it. Wedding costs can quickly get out of control, so it is important to set a budget at the beginning and stick to it. Keep in mind that you may need to ship over items such as decorations, flowers, and food if you are having a destination wedding. You can get a tux through the post business to send you clothes for your bridesman, or they may have a store on the island. Be prepared for any emergency situations that may come up on your big day. Make sure you have a plan in place for dealing with unexpected issues such as weather delays or last-minute changes. If something does happen, make sure you stay calm and know who to turn to for help.

Find a reputable and experienced wedding planner

If you’re dreaming of a Caribbean wedding, then it’s important to select a reputable and experienced wedding planner. These professional coordinators will have valuable contacts that can help make your special day even more beautiful and stress-free. Plus, an experienced planner will be adept in handling scheduling issues, coordinating contractual elements, and helping you stay organized during the event planning process. It might seem daunting to find the right person but do some research and you’ll surely uncover someone who is passionate about creating the perfect wedding experience for you and one who has a proven track record. From researching various options to reading reviews, you’ll soon realize why having a dedicated wedding coordinator is so essential in making your Caribbean wedding come to life!

Work with your planner to choose the venue, caterer, florist, and photographer

If you’re eager to start celebrating your big day, be sure to work with a planner to find the dream venue, caterer, florist, and photographer for your special occasion. Whether it’s a picturesque beachfront ceremony or a romantic candlelit reception complete with decorations fit for royalty, you can trust that a professional will be able to help you bring your Caribbean wedding dreams to life. With the perfect planner willing to assist and make every step painless along the way, all that’s left for you is to sit back and bask in anticipation for what can only be an unforgettable experience.

Send out beautiful save-the-dates and invitations

Sending out invitations can be a great way to let your guests know the details of your special day and create excitement for the upcoming event. When it comes to choosing save-the-dates and invitations, there are endless possibilities. From tropical beach cards to elegant prints with a Caribbean twist, you can find an array of designs that will perfectly reflect your unique style and make sure your guests feel special. There’s no better way to set the tone for a Caribbean wedding than with invites that spark joy and enthusiasm!

Relax and enjoy your special day 

Planning a special day like your wedding can seem daunting, but there’s no need to worry – the Caribbean is happy to help! With its laid-back attitude, sunny skies, and warm waters, the Caribbean is the perfect place to relax and enjoy your wedding day. Create a personalized plan tailored to your exact needs, whether they include beach ceremonies or mountain views, and let the beauty of the Caribbean take care of the rest. Take in the luxurious atmosphere and soak up every moment on this special day with your family and friends. Your Caribbean wedding will be a memorable event that you’ll cherish for years to come.

Planning a Caribbean wedding is simpler said than done, but with the help of an experienced planner and attention to detail, it can all come together perfectly. By adhering to the five key steps we outlined – choosing your date and location, creating an extensive plan, finding a reliable wedding planner, working with that planner to select vendors, and sending out invitations – you can assure your dream wedding becomes a reality. And lastly, don’t forget to take some time before the big day arrives to relax and share in the special moment. When it all comes together like clockwork on the day of your special event – you’ll be glad you followed these tips and were patient throughout the entire process!

Make sure you have the ring.

When planning the perfect proposal in the Caribbean, the most crucial part is to bring a ring with you. Whether it’s a classic solitaire diamond or an ornate platinum band with pavé stones, whatever your choice of ring, it should be unique and full of significance for both of you. 

Fortunately, the perfect diamond engagement rings are usually easy to come by in the Caribbean, and you can even have a custom design made for an extra special touch. Be sure to shop around – there are endless styles and options available. With the perfect engagement ring in hand and the Caribbean at your doorstep, all that’s left is to create a unique, personalized proposal that your partner won’t soon forget.

Find the correct location.

Planning the perfect proposal in the Caribbean is an exciting endeavor. With so many breathtaking locations to choose from, finding the right one for both of you can be daunting. Whether it’s a secluded beach or the top of a cliff overlooking the ocean, consider the special memories you have with your partner and pick a spot that symbolizes your unique relationship. 

Make sure to think about which time of day would be most romantic — later in the evening when you can appreciate brilliant sunsets or perhaps earlier when you might catch beautiful glistening waves as they crash against rocks and cliffs. Whatever it is that captures your heart, make sure it’s extra special.

Plan out what you’re going to say.

Planning out what you’ll say during a marriage proposal is critical. It’s easy to get overwhelmed, nervous, and even tongue-tied when the big moment arrives, so having some ready notes can make things much more accessible and ensure you don’t forget anything important. Writing down the main point or message you’d like to convey will help structure your proposal. 

Additionally, think of ideas such as incorporating open-ended questions or pauses in your speech that encourage a dialogue between you and your partner while they process the moment. Taking an additional couple of minutes beforehand to plan how best to express yourself in the Caribbean will ensure your special occasion goes as smoothly as possible.

Get down on one knee.

Getting down on one knee and planning the perfect proposal while in the Caribbean is a tradition with good reason. Your partner will appreciate the gesture, as it conveys the love, commitment, and dedication of marriage. Taking your partner to one of these islands for a romantic getaway is a great way to show how special they are, and planning out a unique proposal can make them feel even more special. You could arrange an intimate dinner or boat ride around the island, followed by going down on one knee when you reach a romantic spot. What matters most is that your partner knows how deeply you care about them, so no matter what type of proposal plan you come up with, make sure it reflects your love for them and the future that awaits them if they say yes.

Be prepared for anything.

Proposing in the Caribbean offers such a unique and romantic backdrop. Still, it can be easy to overlook the need for a few key elements that will ensure your moment isn’t ruined by a surprise shower – or having sand all over your clothes. The most important advice is to expect the unexpected: bring along an umbrella or lightweight raincoat and beach towels. You don’t want to be stuck in the rain without the hope of protecting yourself. The Caribbean heat means there will likely be some sweating and sand getting everywhere, so you should pack sunblock and shoes specifically for use on the sand. When you spend more time preparing for any eventuality ahead of time, you can make sure your proposal will go off without a hitch.

Enjoy the moment.

Enjoying the moment means embracing every single period of the experience. From searching for that perfect beach location to worrying about the ring, to finally getting down on one knee and uttering those words – make sure you remember it all and stay present. Take some deep breaths to help you remain in the moment, allowing yourself to appreciate all the planning that went into making this special day possible. Carve out the time leading up to the proposal, allowing yourself to reflect on what this engagement signifies and take full advantage of being able to commit so wholly emotion and time to someone to whom you have committed your heart and soul.

Contact us to get Puerto Rico Destination Wedding Coupons for your entire wedding that will be honored at all three of our stores:

• Caribbean Trading Rincon
• Caribbean Trading Company Store @ Palmer, El Yunque
• Caribbean Trading Island Outpost @ EL Conquistador Resort, Fajardo

Also, if you are looking for an easy, breezy service to handle all of your welcome gifts and destination wedding care packages, then Caribbean Trading’s Corporate and Wedding Gift Services is a great option.  We will handle all of the details – creating gift packages that have lots of great information, coupons and welcome items ranging from water and snacks to personalized rum bottles.  Find more information at our Corporate Gifts Page about our service and what we offer.

We have written some additional blogs to help you plan your Destination Wedding welcome gifts and favors:

Custom Wedding Favors for Caribbean Weddings

Key Considerations for Destination Wedding Welcome Gifts

Puerto Rican Rum

Puerto Rico is known as the Rum Capital of the World and rightly so: it is Puerto Rico’s largest export and over 70% of the rum consumed in the US comes from Puerto Rico.  Puerto Rico is the only rum-producing country to adhere to a minimum aging law for the drink and there are many excellent varieties.

Puerto Rican Coffee

Nothing says Puerto Rico like coffee grown in the lush central mountains.  If you are a coffee-lover then Puerto Rico is the right island for you!  Puerto Rican coffee is known to produce a smooth, aromatic and richly flavored brew.  We admit that we never travel without  a pound of Puerto Rican coffee in our suitcases – once you have coffee here, a Maxwell House or Dunkin Donuts coffee just doesn’t stack up!

Local Cookies and Sweet Treats

From typical cookies like Besitos de Coco and Polvoronnes to local chocolate, fudge, or rum cakes, there are lots of sweet treats to include in a snack basket.

Puerto Rican Candies – Dulces Tipicos

These traditional Puerto Rican candies are made with tropical fruits and flavors and are a small token that will get your group thinking tropical vacation.  To learn more about them, you can read one of our recent blogs here.  Available individually or in gift boxes or packs, there are several options at many price points.

Root Chips

Root chips are something that is just beginning to take off in the United States, but here in Puerto Rico , root chips have been a favorite snack for many years!  The most popular are plantain chips, made with the plantain banana; and also the Yucca chip made with cassava.  However, there are also chips made with Batata (Caribbean sweet potato), Malanga, or Dasheen. They are much healthier than your average potato chip and have some strength to them, so they are perfect for dipping!

Puerto Rican Music

Include a CD with a great overview of Puerto Rican music – from bomba and plena to salsa and merengue, you will explore the rich tradition of Puerto Rican music.  Consider adding in some traditional musical instruments of Puerto Rico like maracas or the Guiro, and you have everything needed to jump in and dance.

Something Coqui

The Coqui Frog is our national mascot and it’s co-qui singing at night is a staple of Puerto Rican life, so including something coqui in a basket is a great way to keep the Puerto Rico theme going.  If you are gifting to a family, then the plush coqui is a perfect item to include. But even if the basket is for adults, a small token of the coqui is a great addition.

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The Guayabera is known for its casually elegant style.  It is a symbol of masculine elegance in the Latin American culture; a cultural icon; and is one of the only pieces of men’s clothing that carries such meaning. No one shirt is the same and each one has a lot of personality as seen through all of the embroidery and handwork.

The Style Details of a Guayabera:

These shirts are made traditionally from linen or a cotton.  They traditionally can be found with the following details:

• 4 Patch pockets at chest and waist height
• Two rows of pleating that are very close together or some type of vertical embroidery design
• The tops of the pocket have a matching shirt button
• Straight hem on the bottom with slits on the side
• White or light colors (although other bolder colors have recently become popular).

History of the Guayabera

The history of the guayabera is generally unknown and in dispute.  My favorite story I’ve heard is that it was created in Cuba by the wife of a farmer who sewed on extra patch pockets so that her husband could store all of the Guavas he gathered (guayaba in Spanish).  There is evidence of the shirt design dating back to the 18^th century and it was certainly spread throughout the world via international trade routes, but whether it began in Mexico, Cuba, or Puerto Rico is up for grabs.  It can be found in many countries to date and often go by a different name….

• Zimbabwe: Brought by Cuban teachers, it has become the standard wear for the hot African weather, and is known as a safari shirt.
• Jamaica: know as a Bush Jacket
• Trinidad and Guyana: a shirt-jac
• Dominican Republic: a chacabana
• Mexico: Mexican Wedding Shirt

Either way, it is a Caribbean tradition, particularly of Puerto Rico and Cuba.  It is completely acceptable to wear it as formal wear – a white guayabera with black or tan trousers makes for a stunning look and it is a great alternative to a suit and tie in warm weather climates.  It can also easily be paired with jeans.  In Miami, it is considered ‘official city attire’.

Also, these shirts are perfect for the wedding party of a Destination Wedding in the Caribbean or as a gift for the men in your lives.  An authentic souvenir of the Caribbean!  If you are looking to purchase one, you can Click Here.  If your convention or group is coming to Puerto Rico and you would like to outfit the men in guayaberas, Caribbean Trading Corporate Services can provide them.

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Antigua

With 365 beaches – one for every day of the year! – Antigua is a popular yachting destination. As a result, the area has scores of high-end luxury resorts. Even though most are all-inclusive, getting out to experience local food is highly encouraged – especially traditional West Indian cuisine at Home Restaurant in Gamble Terrace. Some of the best spots for a wedding include secluded and picturesque Jumby Bay, a private 300 acre island off Antigua’s coast. Another (less remote) option is Jolly Beach Resort, which offers all-inclusive beachfront stays. Keep in mind that the hotel is generous with the freebies, especially if you bring a large number of guests. High season in Antigua runs from mid-December through April. After April, rates can drop as much as 40%.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico offers a vast suite of properties and wedding venue locations and is perfect for a destination wedding.  In addition to over 350 beaches, there are a number of unique locations in the rainforest and country regions.  On the east coast, consider getting married on Palomino Island at the El Conquistador (where Caribbean Trading Co is located!) or at the new St. Regis Bahia Beach (Rio Grande where our Company Store is located).  Or get married in historic Old San Juan with its Spanish Colonial Architecture.

There are no passports required for travelling to Puerto Rico and airlift from the US to PR is very good, so it will be easy for your guests to travel with you.

The Bahamas

The Bahamas – a collection of 700 islands – have something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking the complete seclusion of a private island or the bustling crowd of a megaresort, the Bahamas has dozens of options that run the gamut. Activities include excellent scuba at the third largest barrier reef in the world and breathtaking white-sand beaches. High season begins in mid-December and runs through mid-April. One thing to keep in mind is that hurricane season lasts from June through November. Though infrequent, storms do happen and can ruin a wedding.

Some of the best options for weddings in the Bahamas include One&Only Ocean Club (Paradise Island), one of the most luxurious (and pricey!) resort options. Not surprisingly, the One&Only Ocean Club hosts a number of celebrity nuptials every year. Over on Grand Bahama Island, the Pelican Bay at Lucaya can host wedding parties of up to 80 guests.

Anguilla

While any of the island’s 33 beaches would serve as an unforgettable setting for a wedding ceremony, Shoal Bay East Beach is undeniably one of the best beaches on the island – and maybe in the Caribbean. Low-key and relatively uncrowded, the two-mile beach includes a few small resorts, villas, and restaurants.  Marriage licenses take two days to process, but you shouldn’t have any trouble filling the hours at the resorts, beaches and nearby coral reefs. The only drawback to the Shoal Bay beach is that, given its direction, the beach doesn’t have a direct sunset view. But the seclusion and tropical beauty more than compensate for this minor complaint.

Grand Cayman Island

It’s always tricky to organize weddings, but the highly accessible Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman Island makes getting to the big day easy for your guests. An hour by air from Miami – and less than four hours from New York – Grand Cayman is world famous for its beaches and luxurious comforts. Nearby attractions include Stingray City, offering a chance to experience a hands-on encounter with the friendly Caribbean rays.  The Caribbean Club is one of the highest-rated resorts in the area, with an excellent planning and catering team to handle all of your wedding needs.

The Caribbean is an excellent location for a destination wedding, but these five spots are especially worth considering for your big day. They’ll be great for you and for your guests. Congratulations, and good luck with the rest of your planning!

Angie Picardo is a staff writer at NerdWallet, a finance and travel site dedicated to helping couples make informed financial decisions, whether it’s planning a wedding or debating the pros and cons of prenuptial agreement.

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