If you and your partner plan on traveling to the tropics to tie the knot, there’s no better way to make your special day stand out than with destination-inspired décor and elements of local culture. As a travel specialist, I consult with couples who’ve chosen to sidestep tradition, embrace their wanderlust, and head to the Caribbean islands to exchange vows. But location isn’t the only way to infuse your celebration with laidback tropical ambiance—it’s just the beginning! From a custom menu to local entertainment, invitations, and signage, there are endless ways to celebrate local culture when you host a Caribbean wedding. Here are six of my favorites!

Caribbean Wedding Inspiration

Tropical-Inspired Floral Design

Incorporating local plants and flowers into your ceremony arch and reception décor is a thoughtful way to highlight your destination. My clients Abby and Wes selected a boho-inspired triangle arch for their ceremony and had it adorned with dried palm leaves, orchids, and fiery sunset-red roses. The look was vibrant and free-spirited, perfect for their vows on a Cancun beach!

Organic Aisle Décor

Aisle rugs are ever-popular at domestic weddings, so why not give the trend a tropical twist? Abby and Wes’ ceremony design featured a thatched jute runner that added a hint of coziness to the intimate gathering.

Natural Wood Tablescapes

Instead of covering your reception tables with heavy white cloths, try leaving them bare to let the texture of the tropical wood shine. I loved how Abby and Wes did this at their celebration. Round jute placemats and floral arrangements with dried textural elements accented the look perfectly! Meanwhile, a gauze runner added something extra to the head table without overwhelming the design.

Bistro Lights

Beloved by couples everywhere, strings of bistro lights are the perfect way to illuminate the night at your beach reception! Plus, they exude the laidback energy a Caribbean wedding is all about.

Serve Local Cuisine

This is a tried-and-true way to tie local culture into your destination wedding. Jetting off to Jamaica? Serve platters of jerk chicken and fried plantains that will have all your guests raving (you can thank me later).

Hire Local Entertainment

Hit the dance floor how the locals do! In the Dominican Republic, costumed dancers traditionally lead revelers in dance moves during the “Hora Loca,” or “crazy hour.” It’s a great way to get the party started, and I guarantee all your guests will be busting a move by the end of it! 

Weaving that signature island spirit into your Caribbean wedding doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few pieces of thoughtful décor, plus some cuisine and entertainment that honor local culture, you’ve got the perfect destination wedding! Ready to discover the destination that speaks to you and start the booking process? Let’s chat!