Elopement Series: Your Guide to Eloping to Barbados

Thinking of eloping to the Caribbean love? If you clicked on this article, then you most certainly are and we couldn’t possibly be more excited for you!

With everything that is going on in the world today, we completely understand why you may be thinking that this is the right choice for you and your S.O., and to be honest, we are huge fans of elopements for various reasons, one huge one being the intimacy that it brings.

So, if you’re ready to run away to a beautiful destination in the Caribbean for your wedding, then we encourage you to dive into our Elopement Series starting today.

We got in touch with a few experts in the business to help guide you along this journey and get you started planning the wedding that you want, and today we’re taking you to the gorgeous island of Barbados with our dear friends from Elope Barbados.

1. What are the main steps that a couple needs to make to arrange an elopement in Barbados?

First, I would suggest getting in touch with a local Wedding Planner / Elopement Specialist to assist you. An elopement should be stress-free and having someone who knows the vendors, the locations, the process AND the plan B options should anything unexpected happen, is extremely valuable and will surely save you time and money (and potential stress!)

ELOPE BARBADOS offers simple and intimate elopement, destination wedding and vow renewal packages and can also assist with accommodation, tours and activities while on the island. There are also other amazing wedding planners here in Barbados so I suggest checking reviews and referrals to see who is best suited to you and your needs!

In order to get married in Barbados, you will need the following –

Valid passports and original birth certificates.
Valid Return tickets.
If either party was divorced, an original Decree Absolute or a certified copy of the Final Judgment. The Decree Nisi is not accepted.
If either party was previously married and widowed, a certified copy of the Marriage Certificate and Death Certificate in respect of the deceased spouse.
For a Roman Catholic ceremony, the relevant documents must be sent by your bishop to the bishop of Bridgetown.
Where necessary, all documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation.
Arrangements should be made with a Magistrate or Marriage Officer to perform the wedding ceremony, prior to applying for the marriage licence. A letter from either the Magistrate or Marriage Officer must be presented at the time of making the application (This will usually be arranged for you if you have a Wedding Planner)

If you have recently traveled, you will also need to provide proof of two negative Covid-19 tests and proof of quarantine if necessary (these requirements and restrictions are of course, subject to change).

Elopement Series: Guide to Eloping to Barbados, Written by Elope Barbados for Caribbean wedding blog Adriana Weddings

2. What advice would you give based on budgeting for an elopement in Barbados?

We work with clients with various budgets and our elopement & destination wedding packages can be tailor-made to suit these needs although these rates will remain the same year-round. A major aspect to consider when budgeting for your elopement in Barbados, would be your flights and accommodation since prices can be significantly higher from the beginning of November to the end of March. This is high-season for tourism so availability will also be affected and we suggest booking as early as possible if you wish to travel and elope during this period.

3. What are some of the best spots to elope in Barbados?

Barbados has such an incredible contrasting coastline so you are really spoilt for choice! From calm crystal blue waters, white sand beaches and palm trees on the south and west coast to rustic, breathtaking cliffs, rock pools and crashing waves on the east and north coast. There are also beautiful tropical gardens, historic museums and churches where you can get married!

4. What vendors would a couple need to hire for their elopement?

Ultimately, all that is needed is the Bride and Groom, the Magistrate and two witnesses.

Other vendors to consider would be a Wedding planner/decorator to set up the arch or ceremony area, photographer and/or videographer (highly recommended!), florist, transportation provider, musician/s, cake designer/baker, caterer.

If a Wedding Planner’s services aren’t being used, then the couple will also have to arrange collection of the certificate when it’s ready (this usually takes approx. 5 business days).

5. What would you recommend the couple wear?

Some brides have dressed in ball gowns with veils and jewel studded stilettos while others have been barefoot with a white bikini and a cover up. It’s your day so please dress how you want!

At the Ministry of Home Affairs, you will have to dress appropriately when applying for your Marriage license, however. Shoulders must be covered, no shorts, sandals or beachwear will be permitted.

6. What are some reasons you would give for eloping to Barbados?

This is definitely a personal decision and couples choose to elope to Barbados for a variety of reasons:

More Affordable – the cost of an elopement in Barbados can be significantly less expensive than a wedding in their home country or other destination.
Simple and Stress-free – It’s very easy to get married in Barbados and can even be done in one day (perfect for cruise ship passengers!).
Intimate and personalized -The day can be completely about the two of you. No planning around anyone else and the stress that can be associated with that!
The guest list – eloping is the ultimate way to cut down your guest list but of course you need to make sure this is the right decision for you as some family members can take it personally. Many couples will elope and then have a more casual celebration back home afterwards (with some amazing photos and videos to share!). You can also tell close friends and family that you plan to elope and then live stream your ceremony so they can be there that way instead. This is of course a very popular way to get married now during the pandemic!
WEDDINGMOON – combination of your wedding and honeymoon – in paradise!
Current protocols – Although this is of course a very fluid situation and is subject to change at any time, Barbados has been one of very few countries to open their borders during the pandemic which has allowed couples from different countries to be together and get married.

7. Why should they choose Barbados as compared to other countries worldwide?

This is a yet another personal decision but if you love incredible beaches, friendly people, wonderful cuisine and culture then consider a visit to Barbados! Whether it’s for an elopement, a honeymoon or even vow renewal or proposal – take a visit to Barbados and experience it for yourself!