There is so much beauty in elopements, but one thing that truly captivates us every single time is the freedom that it brings. The freedom to choose any destination, the freedom to select any venue to say “I do”, eg. on a mountain, on a private beach, in a forest, and the overall freedom the couple feels from just having it be so intimate and precious.
Just the very thought of it is absolute bliss for so many couples, and we could completely understand why. It is amazing!
Now if you missed our last two articles on eloping to the Caribbean, be sure to check them out here. But for today’s feature, we are going to explore eloping to the U.S. Virgin Islands! We touched base with one of our dear clients, Mary from Island Style Weddings to learn all about the experience for couples eloping to the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the content and imagery are incredible.
So, if you’ve been battling with the idea for some time, and are in need of some expert advice and inspiration, you have come to right place love. Keep reading for more…
1. What are the main steps that a couple needs to make to arrange an elopement in the USVI?
The first step is to decide which island of the USVI they desire. St Thomas is famous for duty free shopping, St Croix is a more after they choose their location- research planners in that area- find one whose style and personality resonate with you.
Wedding planning is an intimate relationship, it is based on mutual respect and trust- if you are not feeling comfortable with a vendor- it would probably not be a good fit- obtaining a marriage license is an easy process here and would be done via the mail. Upon arriving at the territory, we arrange a private taxi service to the court. The court trip is a quick 20 mins to be sworn in and receive your license.
2. What advice would you give based on budgeting for an elopement in the USVI?
An elopement does not mean that you have to give up your dreams of an island wedding. It can be as simple as the two of you and your officiant barefoot on the beach, or you might want to create an adventure week full of exciting experiences to explore.
I suggest you decide what you want to spend for your wedding and vendors. Do no include your dress, accommodation or airline tickets. Once you have established your budget for the wedding, talk to each other and find out what are the most important aspects for your wedding.
Maybe you want to helicopter to a private island to say “I do”, or sail over to a secluded beach to exchange vows, rent an elegant villa and have complete privacy. Your wedding can be exactly how you envisioned it.
3. What are some of the best spots to elope in the USVI?
That is difficult to answer as each island offers unique experiences. On St John there are 30 national park beaches to choose from, St Croix offers the historic Buccaneer Hotel and sugar mills and St Thomas is a duty free Mecca – all have some of the best beaches in the world!
4. What vendors would a couple need to hire for their elopement?
If you use a planner, ask them to customize a package for you. The idea is to not have to do anything more than apply for your license, choose your accommodations and come to RELAX! Let the planner help you choose which vendors best suit your style.
5. What are some reasons you would give for eloping to the USVI?
DO IT!! My most recent wedding was originally set for 60 persons. With the uncertainty of COVID and a family illness they decided to downsize their wedding to 8 guests. They had a wonderful stress free wedding, honeymoon and vacation.
6. Why should a couple consider this option over a wedding in their home country?
Most of my clients are from the mainland so it is still technically the US – however with all of the stress from the past year, who doesn’t need a vacation? The US Virgin Islands offer perfect weather year round, warm gentle breezes and welcoming locals.
7. Please tell us more about your services for couples interested in eloping to the U.S. Virgin Islands.
I do not offer “set” packages, I prefer to speak to the couple, find out what their ideas are and then design something specific to their dreams.
8. Any final thoughts?
Special thank you to Island Style Weddings for sharing this fantastic information on how to elope to the U.S. Virgin Islands.
If you’re ready to start planning your elopement, then search for our Adriana Wedding members HERE to help get you started!
CREDITS
Contributer & Destination Wedding Planner: Island Style Weddings | Photography: Blue Glass Photography |
