I had the joy of photographing Madi and Graham’s wedding in Barbados, and from the start it felt like a celebration that was completely their own. Their beachy/garden theme—laid-back yet intentional, with spring-inspired colors, playful patterns, and minimal décor that let the natural scenery do the work. Their vision was timeless and classy, but also fun, bright, and intimate, with every detail designed to reflect their personalities.

As their photographer, I focused on capturing both the clean editorial portraits and the in-between storytelling moments that showed the heart of the day. Madi shared with me how much she was looking forward to the first look—when Graham would finally see her dress—and the moment they’d be announced as husband and wife. Graham, in his own words, was simply most excited to marry the love of his life. Surrounded by their closest family and friends who had traveled far to be there, the day unfolded with the kind of energy that was equal parts joy, intimacy, and authenticity.

Their celebration also shows why planning a Caribbean Wedding Weekend is one of the best decisions a couple can make. More couples are choosing a destination wedding weekend over a traditional one-day event, and it’s easy to see why. Instead of rushing through the ceremony and reception, a wedding weekend allows couples and their guests to slow down, connect, and enjoy multiple days together in a beautiful location. It’s not just a wedding—it’s a shared experience that feels like a once-in-a-lifetime getaway.

Why Choose a Destination Wedding Weekend?

A destination wedding weekend gives you something that most weddings can’t: time. With family and friends traveling in, a single day often feels too short. Spreading events across two or three days means you can include a welcome dinner, group activities, the wedding celebration itself, and even a farewell brunch. Every moment becomes part of the story.

Another reason couples love this approach is intimacy. Guest lists are usually smaller due to travel, which naturally creates a relaxed, meaningful atmosphere. Instead of hundreds of quick conversations, you actually spend time with the people who matter most.

What Makes It Special

• Extended memories – Guests remember not just the wedding, but the full weekend of experiences.
• Built-in vacation – A destination wedding doubles as a getaway for your loved ones.
• Unforgettable backdrops – Whether it’s a tropical beach, historic estate, or mountain retreat, the setting elevates every detail.
• Flexibility and personalization – Multi-day schedules allow for cultural traditions, casual gatherings, or luxury experiences tailored to your vision.

FAQs About Destination Wedding Weekends

What is a destination wedding weekend?
It’s a multi-day wedding celebration hosted away from home, typically including events like a welcome party, wedding ceremony, reception, and a farewell brunch.

How many guests usually attend?
Most destination wedding weekends host 20–80 guests, though some couples keep it very intimate while others host 100 or more.

When is the best time to plan one?
It depends on the destination. For the Caribbean, December through April is ideal for warm weather and minimal rainfall.

Do I need a wedding planner?
Yes, a planner is highly recommended for destination weddings. They manage logistics, vendor communication, and coordination across multiple days.

Is a destination wedding weekend more expensive?
Not necessarily. While travel is an added cost, smaller guest counts often offset expenses. Many couples find that their budget stretches further because they’re creating a full experience instead of a single day.