"Whatever the occasion - weddings, vow-renewals, honeymoon or romantic getaways - the Cayman Islands provide the perfect escape", writes Rebecca Grinnals, chairman of the Caribbean Wedding Association.

Promises in paradise
It's a match made in heaven. The tropical beauty of a Caribbean paradise combined with professional wedding planning and advice. For discriminating couples looking for island weddings of style and distinction, there is nothing like the sun-kissed allure of the Cayman Islands. Serene and captivating, the islands combine gentle ocean breezes and dramatic backgrounds with an easy-flowing comfort and friendliness.

Although a Grand Cayman wedding may seem exotic, planning one couldn't be simpler. The Cayman Islands are easy to reach and even easier to navigate once you've arrived. English is spoken, US dollars are accepted and a number of knowledgeable, talented wedding planners and professionals are available to help with every desire.

As the largest of the three islands, Grand Cayman is the social and economic hub. Here couples can truly have it all - from the fashionable fun of the distinguished hotels on Grand Cayman's Seven Mile Beach to the tranquility of the quieter Sister Islands.

When it comes to the ceremony itself, there's a huge variety of choice. Opt for a traditional wedding in a quaint chapel. stately church or luxury hotel; a casual wedding on a white sand beach or a world-class restaurant with a spectacular sunset as a backdrop; or even underwater surrounded by coral gardens, fluttering sea plumes and exotic tropical fish as witnesses.

Island weddings are limited only by the imagination. There's no need
to import anything from the States. World-class wedding service providers have developed a reputation for excellence. High-end service is the standard. Wedding planners on Grand Cayman and the Sister Islands provide assistance and guidance to create a unique and personalized ceremony for each bride and groom, making the planning process stress-free by arranging details down to the exotic bridal bouquet, custom-designed wedding cake and cutting edge island decor. All necessary preparations, including musicians, decor, catering, flowers and photography, as well as arranging the marriage application with the civil registrar, are taken care of.

Private ceremonies can be arranged as well as group gatherings with multiple guest activities. Caymanian hospitality extends far beyond the wedding itself. With your wedding set in the middle of a vacation paradise, you can be sure to find fun ways to plan pre- and post-wedding events. Imagine a champagne bridal luncheon set on a cool deck overlooking the impossibly Cayman couples are encouraged to invite the entire wedding party to join them in one wedding and honeymoon destination. These 'destination weddings' allow couples and guests to all join in the fun - most often over a three- or four-day weekend. This family-friendly location welcomes kids of all ages with activities and plenty of fun in the sun, sand and sea. The wedding party will be hard-pressed to find an ambience more in tune with nuptial ceremonies and romance.

After the last piece of cake has been eaten and the cherished guests have departed, couples can continue celebrations in the Cayman Islands for a week or two, enjoying all the elements of a secluded, romantic paradise. With three islands, a diversity of activities is available.

Most restaurants, hotels and condominiums advertising in Destination Cayman offer special wedding packages, please call for further information.

Marriage licence checklist

For a guide to everything you need to know and a list of authorized Marriage Officers, order the helpful, free 'Getting Married in The Cayman Islands' brochure, available from Government Information Services, (345) 949-8092.

Where to tie the knot?

From picturesque coves to majestic cliffs ide decks and elegant ballrooms overlooking the sapphire and emerald sea, these settings and more can be turned into the perfect space for a wedding and reception. Here are a few of the more unusual experiences to consider: