Barefoot Elegance: A Grand Cayman Destination Wedding
By Tracey Schultz, Travel Writer/Blogger, Hartland, Wis.photo Courtesy of The Wyndham Reef ResortGrand Cayman Island is one of the world’s most perfect locations for a destination wedding, honeymoon, or getaway. Miles of powdery white sand beaches, glimmering turquoise water, and lush foliage create a breathtaking backdrop, while upscale venues, a refined Caribbean culture, and a bevy of adventures make the “Friendly Island” a fantastic choice for today’s savvy couples.The VenuesSet away from the crowds and high-rise hotels of Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach, the Wyndham Reef Resort is an all-suite beachfront resort that sits on 1,600 feet of pristine powder, the longest waterfront stretch of any resort on the island. Featuring an all-inclusive meal option, a day spa, workout facility, water sport rentals, yoga classes and a wonderful beach bar, the Reef has appeal for a range of discerning guests. For those who enjoy being a part of the party, the Grand Cayman Marriott sits directly on the beautiful and famous Seven Mile Beach and is just three miles to town. It features four restaurants, two bars, a workout facility, pool and spa, a snorkeling guide, and an open-air atrium. Either facility offers the perfect backdrop for a Grand Cayman wedding.Planner and Event Coordinator Linda Lock, has efficiently managed hundreds of weddings during her 10 years with the Reef Resort. Taking a “your wedding, your way” approach, Lock offers couples the flexibility to create anything from an intimate beachfront affair to an elaborate event for up to 100 guests. To provide couples the attention they deserve, the Reef only permits one wedding per day. The resort also offers four unique ceremony settings including beachfront, on a pier over the Caribbean Sea, poolside, or indoor featuring a panoramic ocean view. Onsite certified wedding planners at the Grand Cayman Marriott assist in destination events indoors in the exquisite Orchid Ballroom, outside on the beach, or in their lush tropical gardens.The PaperworkTo ensure the wedding day flows as seamlessly as possible, the Marriage Officer meets the couple at the venue before the wedding day to handle the official paperwork. The marriage license is issued by the office of Her Excellency, The Governor of The Cayman Islands, and is legally recognized worldwide. Once home, the newlyweds register the marriage with their local City Hall showing the Cayman Islands marriage license and passports.Getting ThereTraveling to the Cayman Islands could not be easier. Grand Cayman is just 480-miles south of Miami, a quick 70-minute flight away. With more than 55 weekly flights into the Cayman Islands, this easily accessible destination has become a favorite for weddings.The tranquil Caribbean waters, lined with powdery white sand and palms gently swaying in the warm island breeze, create the perfect backdrop to exchange vows. Grand Cayman is an enchanting location for the romantic couple, and a fantastic choice for a dream destination wedding. ••Grand Cayman—An Activity GuideWhat can the wedding party and their guests do to stay entertained? If laying on the beach and soaking up rays isn’t enough, consider these options:Bioluminescent Bay is truly a phenomenon. Bioluminescence is defined as “the emission of light by a living organism.” Visible only during the island’s darkest nights, the bay’s water comes to life in electric hues of blues and greens. Wedding guests can tour the bay by kayak or electric boat.Owen Island is located off the southwestern shore of Little Cayman. Those searching for a true Gilligan’s Island experience can easily reach Owen Island by kayak, rowboat, or standup paddleboard. This gorgeous and deserted 11-acre island paradise is a popular spot for honeymooners to picnic and explore. Cayman Airways makes several trips between Grand Cayman and Little Cayman each day.Cayman Brac is known for its towering limestone caves and caverns, each with unique histories and attributes. Some are rumored to have once hidden pirate loot, another is known for its brightly hued walls colored by algae and oxidation. Just a short 25-minute flight from Owen Roberts International Airport, Cayman Brac is a popular day trip.The Queen Ann II Botanic Gardens are bursting with vibrant, fragrant native blooms. A stroll through these lush gardens should not be overlooked. The park is also home to the island's endangered Blue Iguana, currently housing 40 iguanas in its captive breeding facility.Swimming with playful dolphins is a childhood dream come true. Visitors can choose to feed their new friend, take a ride on his back, or let a dolphin flip them in the air from below.World class snorkeling is available at Rum Point. With its crystal clear, warm, and shallow waters, it is a snorkeler's paradise. The site is named after a shipwreck that sent barrels of rum tumbling into the sea.Stingray City is located in Grand Cayman’s North Sound. It is a series of sandbars known for their regular congregation of friendly stingrays. Visitors can feed, pet, and play with these gentle giants.
