Jamaica Weddings

Getting Married in Jamaica - Luscious landscapes, beautiful lagoons and shimmering waterfalls.

Jamaica Weddings

The island of Jamaica is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and covered in lush mountains, rainforests, and reef-lined beaches. 

With its magnificent British-colonial architecture, many of the island’s most popular all-inclusive resorts are clustered in Montego Bay. Negril on the west coast is known for its shallow bays with calm, turquoise waters ideal for snorkelling and scuba-diving.

Our UK-based clients Charmaine and Sean planned their Caribbean destination wedding in Jamaica. They chose a wedding venue in the Discovery Bay area of the island in the beautiful Ocho Rios region on the north coast. They were drawn to this part of Jamaica due to its luscious landscapes, beautiful lagoons, and shimmering waterfalls.

Wedding in Ocho Rios Jamaica - Sukimac PhotographySukimac Photography

As the famed birthplace of reggae music and associated genres like dub, ska and dancehall, Jamaica is the Caribbean island that comes with its own soundtrack. Its capital, Kingston, is also home to the Bob Marley Museum, dedicated to the famous singer.

The Island’s History

Christopher Columbus is believed to have been the first European to reach Jamaica. Prior to his arrival in 1494, the island was inhabited by the Arawak tribes. The Spanish enslaved many of them while also introducing the first African slaves to the island. During this time, Jamaica primarily served as a military base to supply colonising efforts in the mainland Americas.

In 1655, the English invaded, defeating the Spanish colonists. During this period of political turmoil, the African slaves escaped to the island's interior, forming independent communities known as the Maroons. Meanwhile, on the coast, the English built Port Royal which became a base of operations for pirates and privateers.

In the 19th century, sugar cane replaced piracy as British Jamaica's main source of income. The sugar industry was labour-intensive, prompting the British to bring thousands of enslaved Africans to Jamaica.

The Jamaican sugar economy eventually declined as famines, hurricanes, colonial wars, and wars of independence disrupted trade. Another major reason for its decline was the British Parliament's 1807 abolition of the slave trade and the subsequent abolition of slavery in 1834.

After World War II, Jamaica began a relatively long transition to full political independence. This was finally granted on August 6th 1962 and this date is now a celebrated national holiday.

Jamaica Weddings

Getting Married in Jamaica

Jamaica is rich in romance and natural beauty. Whether you decide to exchange vows high up in the mountains or barefoot on the white sand of a private beach, you’ll be getting married in paradise.

Jamaica weddings can take place almost as soon as you arrive, subject to a 24 hours residency period (although I would always recommend giving yourselves a few days to unwind after such a long journey). Securing a marriage license from the Ministry of Justice is a same-day process. Once granted, it lasts for three months. Some of the things you’ll need include:

  • Proof of citizenship such as a certified copy of your birth certificate that includes father’s name
  • Proof of divorce if applicable
  • Certified copy of death certificate for widow or widower
  • Processing fee

If your documents aren’t in English, you’ll need to have them translated by an official translator and certified by your local Ministry of Foreign Affairs and your nearest Jamaican Mission or Honorary Consulate.

Wedding Venues in Jamaica

Round Hill Hotel & Villas

Long considered one of the most beautiful and elegant resorts in the Caribbean, Round Hill perfectly blends its rich history and ambience with an array of modern luxuries. Located in Montego Bay, the 110-acre private enclave features luxury villas, boutique oceanfront rooms, award-winning seaside dining, and an exquisite spa nestled within a lush tropical hillside along a private bay of turquoise waters.

Half Moon

Set amid 400 acres of manicured grounds with two miles of beachfront, Half Moon Luxury Resort is a destination in itself. Many of the hotel’s individually appointed rooms and suites enjoy stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Villas are also available with five, six and seven bedrooms. Guests of the resort enjoy extensive facilities, but it’s the wildlife at Half Moon that really sets it apart, particularly the turtles that return year after year to lay their eggs. Each year, the resort records more than 20 nests on their beaches, releasing over 2,000 baby turtles into the sea.

Beach wedding in Montego Bay Jamaica - Halfmoon Resort

Beach wedding in Montego Bay Jamaica - Halfmoon Resort

Silent Waters Villa

Located on the north coast, this award-winning luxury Jamaican villa overlooks Montego Bay and the Caribbean Sea. Spread across 16.5 acres, the site features 12 buildings, lavish gardens, a helicopter pad, private tennis court, and two swimming pools. The five villa suites can accommodate as many as 18 guests. With the addition of the owner’s private villa this can be extended up to 20. A staff of 14 will attend to your every need and ensure your stay at Silent Waters is as effortless as it is luxurious.

Pattoo Castle

Pattoo Castle is a luxury villa located in the laidback town of Negril on the west coast of Jamaica. Situated on a cliff with magnificent, unobstructed views of the Caribbean Sea, it offers privacy and seclusion in a unique, peaceful setting. The interiors are light and airy with plenty of windows to allow the cool Caribbean breeze to flow throughout the villa. The property also features a large, oceanfront freshwater infinity pool and plenty of outdoor space for al fresco dining and lounging.

Get in Touch to Plan Your Dream Destination Wedding with Benessamy

Ready to start planning your luxury destination wedding in Jamaica? Contact us today to book an introductory consultation to discuss your vision, requirements, and how we can orchestrate every detail for a seamless, joyful celebration.

Val Mattinson
Val Mattinson
Director and Head Planner

Luxury Wedding & Event Planning Across the UK, London. Midlands & the Caribbean

We're here to listen, advise and support: Providing attentive, personal service from the moment you get in touch

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call +44 (0)7787 422451
mail events@benessamy.co.uk

Jamaica Weddings
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Your questions, answered...

We're happy to answer any queries you may have so please do get in touch. In the meantime, here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about our wedding planning and design services.

  • HOW FAR IN ADVANCE SHOULD WE BOOK A DESTINATION WEDDING PLANNER?

    Ideally, 12–18 months in advance to secure your preferred venues and suppliers.

  • WHY CHOOSE JAMAICA FOR A DESTINATION WEDDING?

    Jamaica combines breathtaking beaches, lush tropical landscapes, vibrant culture and exceptional hospitality. It’s ideal for couples who want a celebration that feels relaxed yet luxurious — with an unmistakable sense of warmth, music and Caribbean spirit woven throughout the experience.

  • WHAT ARE THE LEGAL REQUIREMENTS FOR GETTING MARRIED IN JAMAICA?

    Jamaica’s marriage process is simple and efficient. You’ll typically need passports, birth certificates, a marriage licence application and any relevant divorce or name-change documents. There is a 24-hour residency requirement, after which you can legally marry.

  • WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO GET MARRIED IN JAMAICA

    The most popular months are December to April, when the weather is warm and dry. Many couples also enjoy the "shoulder' season months for better availability and quieter resorts. We will help you select dates that suit your vision, budget and guest travel plans.

  • WHAT TYPES OF WEDDING VENUES ARE AVAILABLE IN JAMAICA?

    Jamaica offers an incredible variety of settings: private villas, luxury beachfront resorts, hilltop estates, boutique hotels, lush gardens and unique historic properties. Whether you prefer something secluded and serene or lively and celebratory, I help you identify venues that perfectly match your style.

  • HOW MUCH DOES A DESTINATION WEDDING IN JAMAICA COST?

    Costs vary depending on venue, guest numbers, design preferences and the level of hospitality you want to offer. Jamaica offers options ranging from intimate luxury elopements to larger, multi-day celebrations. We will prepare a tailored estimate so you understand what’s achievable within your desired budget.

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