Beyond The Beach by Jo-Anne Brown of Celebrations

Welcome to my series Beyond the Beach, a collection of my musings on destination wedding venues. Here in the Cayman Islands, where our picturesque white sand beaches are world famous, there are many stretches of gorgeous oceanfront beach where a lucky bride can take her vows. I also want to share with you a host of venues that bring an unexpected twist to a destination wedding and which, like our beaches, will take your breath away.

Picture a wide, open green space, with lush, verdant green grass under foot. White fabric billows in a light sea breeze. A wave breaks on a mass of coral rock far in the distance, sending a frothy stream of ocean water into the air off shore. Behind you, stands a castle. The only of its kind in the Caribbean. You are at Pedro’s St. James Castle in the heart of the Cayman Islands. 

This glorious and regal national treasure dates back to the 18th century, giving a glimpse into the mystical and wonderous history of the Cayman Islands. The castle has been lovingly restored to the splendor of its heyday, giving this venue an exciting air of Caribbean authenticity for the luxury bride in search of the ultimate island wedding. As a non-traditional venue location, Pedro Castle has quickly become one of my favorite wedding venues, lending hand to these stylish weddings.

For Belinda and Jonathan, Pedro Castle became a backdrop for a modern take on traditional outdoor weddings. Luxurious draping of crisp white fabric and simple yet intricate arrangements of lush white and soft pink flowers and Caribbean blooms set the tone for the ceremony, against a backdrop of seagrape trees on the water. For the reception, sleek white couches and onyx hand-made chandeliers lent a cosmopolitanlook to the sprawling grand lawn.

For Kristin and Bessanio, the theme was classical and ornate, with touches of whimsy. This lavish Victorian-inspired affair welcomed 350 guests into a regal setting complete with pink Swarovski crystals, a hand-crafted and monogrammed aisle and bouquets glistening with gems. Inside a clear tent on the Pedro St. James grounds, a fairytale came alive with radiant tones of blush and powder pink and lush accents of green casting a romantic glow throughout the evening. Such a lovely location for a beach wedding!

Enjoy!  Warmly, Jo-Anne Brown of Celebrations