This is the Transcript of the #WeddingMarket Chat in Saint Lucia on September 24, 2014.
This special #weddingmarket chat was with Marsha-Ann Brown, Chef Nina Compton, Alison Theodore and Berthia Parle. The answers were made on Twitter so responses will appear different. This event was sponsored by the Saint Lucia Tourist Board.
Join Our Wedding Market Chats For Wedding Professionals Every Wednesday at 10:00PST, 1:00EST, and 6:00GMT (UK time) with the #WeddingMarket Hashmark On Twitter. Learn something new to help your business grow every week. The chats are hosted by Wedding Market editor Julie Albaugh (@juliealbaugh).
Special Guests:
Marsha-Ann Brown, Director of Weddings & Romance For Sandals Resorts
Marsha-Ann Brown, Director of Romance is responsible for capturing the imagination of couples around the world and helping to create memories that will last a lifetime. Her role is pivotal to the Sandals brand, a company that has built its reputation on providing two people in love with the most romantic Caribbean experience possible.
Chef Nina Compton, Culinary Ambassador For St. Lucia
Bravo Top Chef Season 11 Runner Up
A native of St. Lucia, Nina Compton has trained in French, Caribbean and Italian kitchens. She has worked under renowned Chef Daniel Boulud and now lives in Miami where she worked for acclaimed chef Scott Conant. A self-proclaimed “gnocchi queen,” Nina always keeps Maldon salt, good olive oil, lemon, calabrese chilies, and either pancetta or guanciale on hand. Nina strongly believes one should enjoy the moment whenever they are cooking.
Berthia Parle, General Manager of Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa
Representing Bay Garden Hotel & Inn
Berthia Parle is the former President and Chairwoman of the Caribbean Hotel Association, (the first female President in the history of CHA from 2004-2006) as well as the first inductee into St. Lucia’s Tourism Hall of Fame, former Deputy Chairperson of the Board’s Marketing Committee, past President of the St Lucia Hotel & Tourism Association. Mrs. Parle served as General Manager of the Award Winning and very successful Bay Gardens Hotel, the past 11 years and is now General Manager of the newest 4-star luxury Resort on famous Reduit Beach, Bay Gardens Beach Resort, opened from April 2007.
Alison Theodore, St. Lucia Tourist Board Manager For Canada
Alison Theodore leads the marketing, public relations and sales drive for the Saint Lucia Tourist Board in Canada. A passionate orator and presenter, Alison has an unwavering commitment to showcase Saint Lucia as a leading tourist destination. A romantic at heart with a deep love for Saint Lucia, Alison believes that there is no better way to celebrate your love story than in Simply Beautiful Saint Lucia, the Caribbean’s leading destination for weddings and honeymoons.
Q1: What makes weddings or destination weddings in #StLucia unique?
Answers:
Marsha: French influence mixed with Caribbean flair. The Pitons, the lush greenery, beautiful beaches make it an exotic location.
Alison: The backdrop! The Piton Mountains, scenic beaches, lush rainforest, historic forts & churches.
Q2: What makes #StLucia the ideal location for a wedding?
Answers:
Marsha: The truly exotic & scenic locations scattered around #StLucia make for unique picture perfect weddings!
Nina: Not only the beauty of the island makes St.Lucia an ideal location for wedding but also the charm of the people and food!
Alison: #StLucia is easily accessible, offering an exotic location, diverse lodging options and unique wedding sites.
Berthia: Truly Romantic and Magical Island, Beautiful Backdrops and scenery, warmth and suitable accommodations.
Q3: What are some unique wedding venues in #StLucia ?
Answers:
Marsha: The beaches in St. Lucia are always unique to me. The hills/mountains in the backdrop are amazing. Any venue with a spectacular beach and mountain view is unique to me!
Alison: The summit ridge of Gros Piton, along the colorful coral reefs or sailing into the sunset.
Berthia: Beautiful Sunsets, Estates and Mountains, Pegion Island is a magical venue, in front of a waterfall.
Q4: What wedding trends have you seen this year?
Answers:
Marsha: The planned elopement & much larger wedding parties huge wedding trends this year. http://sndls.me/wVjX
Alison: Mismatched bridesmaid dresses, nonfloral centerpieces, signature cocktails, unique lighting.
Berthia: Larger groups, Organic Weddings and Natural Backdrops.
Q5: What is your favorite #StLucia Wedding & Why?
Answers:
Marsha: I LOVED this wedding from St. Lucia. It was all 1950’s glam with an island flare! http://sndls.me/FwQ
Berthia: African Weddings, an eye opener. Tribal costumes and the culture, something never been seen before, 400 people.
Alison: The Landings featured a Hindu wedding fused with elements of Saint Lucia. It was stunning.
Q6: What types of activities can wedding guests experience in #StLucia?
Answers:
Marsha: Snorkeling, diving, visiting the Soufriere Fountain of Youth, or a Piton sunset cruise! http://sndls.me/FwVd
Alison: Hike the Pitons, visit the world’s only drive-in volcano, attend an event or festival, or relax on the beach. @SaintLuciaNow
Berthia: Hiking of the Pitons, Trip to Soufiere and Ladera is a must!
Q7: How far in advance should a bride plan a wedding in #StLucia? What is the smallest amount of time?
Answers:
Marsha: For any #destinationwedding, I recommend no shorter than 6-9 months to plan to begin planning. Give yourself time!
Alison: Planning a formal wedding will vary; impromptu nuptials can be happen within one day of arrival.
Berthia: A day or two days is the least they can plan for, depends on the glam, super glam or super simple.
Q8: What are the advantages/disadvantages of having a destination wedding compare to a traditional wedding?
Answers:
Marsha: With a destination wedding, your honeymoon begins the moment you say, I Do. You don’t lose any precious honeymoon days! The value is incomparable. You get to splurge more on your dream wedding in the idyllic Caribbean setting.
Alison: Guests get to take an amazing vacation, but sadly – not everyone will be able to make the trip.
Berthia: Cost cutting for destination weddings, saving money with Wedding Packages and time of year, exceptional value provided.
Q9: Ways in which one can cut cost planning/booking a destination wedding?
Answers:
Marsha: The combined wedding and honeymoon is a cost saving. Explore hotels offers that include amenities for your wedding.
Alison: Most resorts offer support that eliminates the need for a wedding planner and the backdrop provides all the décor you’ll need.
Berthia: Floral Arrangements, Bamboo Archs, Wedding on a Beach and Natural Flowers.
Q10: Why choose Saint Lucia over other islands for your destination wedding?
Answers:
Marsha: Pictures say a thousand words! These are pictures from real St. Lucia weddings!
Alison: #StLucia provides so much more than a lovely beachside stay; its culture, dining, events, and people, set us apart.
Berthia: Value for money, warmth of people, absolute scenery simply romantic and memorable magical moments.
Q11: Is there a traditional Saint Luciawedding?
Answer:
Berthia: Traditional Creole Wedding, unique to the island and with amazing local cosine and flare.
Q12: Creative ways to cut your wedding cost?
Answers:
Marsha: Consider the local flower options at your destination for gorgeous, cost effective table & bouquet options!
Alison: Host the ceremony at your resort, make your own floral arrangements, or opt for heavy apps versus a formal dinner.
Q13: Are there any hidden wedding costs that you probably may forget to consider?
Answers:
Marsha: Whether traditional or destination wedding, always remember the wedding document/government fees!
Q13A: What are the marriage requirements?
Alison: It’s quite simple. You would need to present your birth certificate, passport, if you have a divorce then you need to show your absolute decree for your divorce. In the case of the death of a spouse then you need to present that. Everything needs to be in English. We would need to translate that if it’s not in English. It’s very simply no blood tests nothing like that is required to get those applications through. There are two different licenses that you can get if you do want to do that 24 hour arrival on island. You can pay alittle less and have seven days that you can arrange it.
Berthia: You also need two assists which you could get from the your hotel staff or on island if you don’t have any. If you are below the age of 18 you need parental consent and I think that is critical. If you don’t want to expedite your wedding in a day then be on island three days prior. Your passport must be valid for three months which is critical.
Q14: What tips do you have for brides bringing their dress on the plane?
Answers:
Marsha: Here are some of our expert tips on flying with your wedding dress: http://sndls.me/FBwN Always remember to hang your dress up as soon as you reach your destination. It helps to remove creases naturally!
Alison: Properly pack the garment and allow for extra time for airport security procedures. Unpack the dress promptly upon arrival. And don’t worry about additional creases. The resorts in Saint Lucia have you covered.
Q15: Do Brides have to pay any fees for bringing their weddingdress to #StLucia?
Answers:
Marsha: I always say, the dress needs to be your carry-on. With most airlines, carry-on pieces are free.
Alison: There are no additional costs to bring a wedding dress to #stlucia.
Q16: How can destination wedding planners and travel agents add #StLucia as a wedding location?
Answer:
Alison: They first need to visit www.stlucianow.com & contact Saint Lucia Tourist Board rep closest to them.
Q17: What is the prime booking season for destination weddings in #StLucia?
Answers:
Marsha: Mid Spring to summer are peak months for #destinationweddings. The beauty of the Caribbean it is ideal year round!
Alison: Prime wedding season on #stlucia lasts from January-May.
Berthia: Traditionally in the Summer for the huge groups, up until November and Christmas , but it is always changing. Affordable Packages and Add ons are great for any couple looking to save.
Q18: Are there cheaper rates in #StLucia during certain times of the year?
Answer:
Alison: Great deals can be found throughout the summer months.
Q19: Are you seeing a lot of Brides using #Wedding #hashtags on their wedding day?
Answer:
Marsha: Oh absolutely! I encourage a cute # for the big day to see your wedding from your guest’s perspective.
Q20: Are Brides sharing @Pinterest pins & boards for creating their #StLucia Weddings?
Answers:
Marsha: Destination Wedding pins & boards are trending. Our #StLucia wedding pins are some of the best! http://sndls.me/FBwB
Alison: Absolutely, check out the lovely photos that have been shared on http://www.pinterest.com/saintlucia1/saint-lucia-weddings.
Q21: What are some of the latest trends in catering?
Answers:
Marsha: Signature drinks, locale inspired foods, exotic cake flavors, dessert tables.
Nina: Some of the trends I am seeing now are the use of interactive stations like ceviche bars and hand made sushi. People love to see things prepared right in front of them, these are fun things to add to a wedding.
Alison: Signature cocktails, heavy appetizers versus formal seated dinners, and dishes that are representative of a particular theme.
Berthia: Action stations are a great addition, everything is fresh and made there and its fun to see #StLucia.
Q22: What advice would you give couples when planning their menu in St. Lucia?
Answers:
Nina: I encourage people to have fun with menu planning, embrace the local cuisine . Make it fun & also approachable. Making sure the food fits the theme and location is key as well. Many factors to consider with outdoor or beach weddings. Weather & temperature play a big role in menu planning. Using local ingredients such as fresh fruit, vegetables, seafood & meats are their best to make a spectacular reception.
Q23: What ideas do you have for different budgets for a reception in the St. Lucia?
Answer:
Nina: Depending on the budget , some people may want a simple cocktail reception with passed canapés. Adding local music & dancers to be part of the event is fun & different and fits the setting.
Q24: How should brides prepare for their destination weddingin #StLucia?
Answers:
Marsha: Know the requirements, book your room or suite & rely on the expert advice of your destination wedding planner.
Alison: Provide your guests with suggestions on things to see/do
Berthia: Tells us what they want, Send us the photos of what they want, specific images, menu suggestions and customized menus.
Q25: Should brides plan a visit to #StLucia before theirwedding?
Answers:
Marsha: Some brides want to test drive their wedding to get inspired. If not, be assured your expert planner will guide you. For those who want an idea of the wedding location they get motivated with a visit & meeting the people!
Alison: It’s not necessary, but always ideal to have a handle on the destination before the big day.
Berthia: It’s important for larger weddings and to meet with third parties, depending on size and type of glam.
Q26: What types of options do brides have for their hair & makeup?
Answers:
Marsha: Consider the weather before deciding on your look. Book a stylist & make up expert and be pampered.
Alison: Most #stlucia resorts offer hair and makeup services on-site. @SaintLuciaNow
Berthia: Several Options, Exceptional hair and make up artists here in St.Lucia.
Q27: What is unique about the people in #StLucia?
Answers:
Marsha: Their warmth, charm, hospitality & cultural diversity is so captivating. You will fall in love with them.
Alison: Saint Lucians are warm and caring people, they’ll be thrilled to share your special day with you. @SaintLuciaNow
Berthia: We love weddings, the whole resort is involved, and we are very genuine.
Q28: What do you want the wedding industry & brides to take away from the #WeddingMarket Chat?
Answers:
Marsha: That #destinationwedding planning is easier than you think & #StLucia is the perfect place to plan for your dream wedding.
Nina: #weddingmarket you are in good hands when planning a wedding in St.Lucia, have fun and relax and enjoy the island.
Alison: The island not only offers a beautiful backdrop for your special day, your guests will be thankful you chose #stlucia. That #destinationwedding planning is easier than many may think and #StLucia is the perfect place to plan for!
Berthia: Transportation such as BMWs and Audis are now available on island for the wedding, new amazing colours and butterfly farms. Only one island, the simply beautiful island of Saint lucia should be your choice , it will be memorable!
Questions From The #weddingmarket Chat Audience
@FlowerGirlWorld Any advice for managing the bridal party + #flowergirls of destination #wedding #brides?
Answer Marsha: Keep your bridesmaids informed every step of the way with a secret group on FB or your own Wedding Website!
@FlowerGirlWorld Any ideas for brides looking to get inspired/plan their destination #wedding?
Answer Marsha: I would definitely recommend the destination wedding blogs like @WeddingMoons blog for tons of inspiration!
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