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Island-style "I Do"

Let the natural beauty of the U.S. Virgin Islands set the backdrop for an exotic destination wedding. Here are eight romantic places to say “I do” in America’s Caribbean. By Jami Moran

1. Carambola Beach Resort, St. Croix
Located on a secluded beach along the sweeping coastline of St. Croix, this private lodge-style beach getaway, nestled in the island’s tropical landscape, is an ideal setting for a beautiful event. Whether you’re thinking barefoot in the sand or a formal wedding overlooking the ocean, this unspoiled oasis offers every amenity to make your dream wedding a reality. Built under the orders of Laurance Rockefeller in 1986, the resort, situated on 28 private acres, features an attentive staff, luxurious guest suites and exceptional on-site restaurants – all sure to make your “I dos” as magical as the breathtaking surroundings.
For more information, go to carambolabeach.com.

2. Frenchman's Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort, St. Thomas
Whether it's the beauty of the island location or the expertise and extra-special attention of the hotel’s staff, the Frenchman's Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort in St. Thomas has become the place for weddings in the Caribbean. With over 5,000 happily married couples to date, five exclusive wedding packages and a full-service staff to plan everything from flowers to photography, all you have to do is show up. Whether you arrive by land or sea (St. Thomas is a major hub for cruise ships), imagine saying your vows in a charming seaside gazebo or on a private bluff overlooking the ocean. Whatever you dream of for your big day, Frenchman's Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort will turn your entire experience into a picture-perfect occasion.
For more information, visit weddingsinparadise.vi.

3. Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas
A wedding at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas sets a new standard in romantic elegance. A fave escape for celeb couples like Eva Longoria and Tony Parker, the hotel specializes in creating unique and extraordinary wedding experiences. The hotel offers numerous wedding packages, all with names like “Beach Dreams” or “Island Elegance,” that will allow the two of you to start your life together in true island style. Imagine saying “I do” during a sunset sail on the Lady Lynsey or hosting a private ceremony for two in an oceanside gazebo. Heighten your experience with The Ritz-Carlton’s legendary catering. The hotel’s culinary teams specialize in creating masterful presentations designed to captivate both your palate and imagination.
For more information, visit ritzcarlton.com.

4. Plantation Crown and Hawk, St. Thomas
Also known as Villa Botanica, this botanical garden, situated on an 18th century five-acre sugar plantation is truly one-of-a-kind. The tropical estate, which lies 1,500 feet above the harbour of St. Thomas, hosts some of the most breathtaking views in the Caribbean. The estate’s exotic gardens, bursting with vibrant foliage, provide a beautiful, natural backdrop to any outdoor wedding. For a true island experience, start with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on the stone pool deck, overlooking the harbour of Charlotte Amalie, followed by an alfresco reception in the open-air dining room.
For more information, visit villabotanica.com.

5. Caneel Bay, St. John 
Located on the island of St. John, the sprawling 170-acre resort of Caneel Bay features seven white-sand beaches nestled within the Virgin Islands National Park. Remaining true to the vision of founder Laurance Rockefeller and his reverence for the environment, each of the resort’s 150 beachfront suites have been artfully designed to blend into the landscape. A true escape, the resort remains purposefully absent of modern glitz (Brad and Angelina have checked in before) and digital distractions (rooms are sans TV and telephones). For weddings, Caneel charms with romantic tranquility, expert catering and a dedicated staff to ensure your island “I dos” are everything you’ve been dreaming of.
For more information, go to caneelbay.com.

6. St. Peter Great House and Botanical Gardens, St. Thomas
Whether you’re planning a lavish island wedding or an intimate ceremony for two, say “I do” with a view at St. Peter Great House and Botanical Gardens. Infused with Caribbean ambience, this lush tropical garden (rumoured to have been used by pirates to bury their treasure) boasts classic West Indian architecture, nature trails, waterfalls, more than 20 varieties of orchids and 150 species of Caribbean plants and fruits.  With over 10 years of “Caribbean know-how” when it comes to planning weddings, the estate’s professional staff will take care of your every need to ensure your wedding is a fabulous success.
For more information, visit greathouse-mountaintop.com.

7. The Buccaneer, St. Croix
Founded in the 17th century and family-owned and operated for generations The Buccaneer combines old-world charm with warm and welcoming hospitality. Blooming with tropical flowers and greenery over its 340-acre property and three crescents of sandy beach, this 138-suite beach resort is the ideal location for any destination wedding. With sweeping views of the ocean, you can say “I do” barefoot on the beach, in a flowering garden, or in a centuries old historic sugar mill – an ideal location for an outdoor ceremony and a stunning backdrop for your wedding album.
For more information, go to thebuccaneer.com.

8. The Westin St. John Resort and Villas, St. John
Featuring 34 acres of tropical landscape and a 12,000-foot white-sand beach along the shores of Great Cruz Bay, The Westin St. John Resort and Villas is the perfect venue for a destination wedding. Between the hotel’s on-site wedding consultants, the lush outdoor function areas, the intimate Caribbean-style gazebo, as well as stunning indoor locations (including a 10,000 square foot ballroom) you’re sure to be able to host a wedding that truly reflects your personal style.
For more information, visit westinresortstjohn.com.