Article courtesy of DLX guest contributor Nancy Barkley, of Honeymoons and Get-A-Ways
Zemi Beach House and Resort Oceanfront Infinity Pool. Photo courtesy of Zemi Beach House
Something borrowed, something blue? Your luxury destination wedding can absolutely be wrapped in blue… gorgeous, Caribbean blue. I absolutely adore Anguilla, a secret gem in the Caribbean. This British Caribbean Island is only 35 square miles in size but offers 33 of the most beautiful beaches in the world. All of these picture perfect beaches are public, unspoiled and uncrowded. The white sand is like walking on powder and the tranquil waters vary in their different shades. It is no wonder why Travel Channel ranks Anguilla’s beaches among the best around the world. These beaches are wonderful options for a destination wedding as Anguilla’s dramatic sunsets will provide the most impeccable backdrop and flawless photographs.
Zemi Thai Spa House. Photo courtesy of Zemi Beach House
This eastern Caribbean island is ideal for couples looking for a high style, low- key wedding, desiring privacy and exclusivity. While Anguilla is a chic luxury destination that is frequented by celebrities, pretentious it is not. Luxury villas and resorts, culinary paradise, live music scene, are a few of the reasons A-listers visit here and hide in plain sight.
20 Knots Restaurant. Photo Courtesy of Zemi Beach House
I arrived in Anguilla via a 20 minute Ferry ride from Margot, St. Martin, where Ferries operate daily. Ferries are also available directly from the St. Martin airport. Flying is an option into Anguilla, however there are no direct flights as this charming Caribbean Island airport runway is not long enough to accommodate larger aircrafts. Most connections are via San Juan, St. Martin, St. Thomas, helicopter, or private jet. Of course you can charter your own yacht or (byob) bring your own boat. Your wedding in Anguilla will be captivating and one that guests will be talking about for years to come. Thanks to Ricketts & Associates, I discovered the perfect luxury resort and villa.
Beach Wedding at Zemi Beach Resort Photo courtesy of Rocklyn Maynard
The Zemi Beach House Resort & Spa, which opened its doors last year, has already garnered accolades galore, including “New Hotel of the Year” and “World’s best new resort spa”. Oh, and did I mention that it is located on one of the world’s most beautiful beaches? Shoal Bay. The Zemi Thai House Spa is exceptional, boasting the only Hamman on the island housed in a 300 year old Thai House. This luxurious retreat offers private spa suites, yoga, and a meditation garden along with ancient rituals to heal you. Spa day here is a must for your guests.
Zemi Beach Resort Wedding Dinner Reception Photo courtesy of Zemi Beach House
After a day of pampering and relaxation, return to your exquisite Caribbean Style ocean view room with soft woods and premium European linens. If 24 hour room service is not your desire, you can dine casually at 20 Knots, or formally at Stone enjoying seasonal cuisine and freshly caught seafood. There are many activities your guests can partake in before the big day. Rum tasting at the luxurious rum bar, stand up paddle boarding, snorkeling, tennis, or kayaking is worth the experience. The Zemi Beach Resort is for the couple wanting to marry on one of the most beautiful, intimate beaches in the world. You can choose from an elegant poolside reception or formal dining, overlooking the ocean, in 20Knots before dancing the night away.
The Beach House Terrace Photo courtesy of The Beach House
If modern ultra-luxury villa is more your style, check out The Beach House, which sits on 1.5 acres of unspoiled beach, Meads Bay. Serviced with a full complement of staff, including private chefs, butler services, personal concierge, housekeeping and more, this property definitely offers the best of the good life. With its combination of world-class accommodation, breathtaking location, and impeccable bespoke service, all who stay here agree that it has earned its reputation for being the Caribbean’s finest private luxury beach villa. For the beach lover, this is paradise found.
The Beach House Interior. Photo Courtesy of the Beach House
Perhaps this is why Justin Bieber and entourage called the resort home for the holidays. They offer luxurious Caribbean living and every imaginable amenity. Indoor and outdoor rain showers, 12-seat cinema room, tennis courts, and extra master suite apartment, fully equipped gym, bar, lounge, library, and infinity pool.
Meads Bay Beach. Photo courtesy of The Beach House
Indoor and outdoor rain showers, 12-seat cinema room, tennis courts, and extra master suite apartment, fully equipped gym, bar, lounge, library, and infinity pool and office. The Beach Houses stunning architecture was designed for indoor/outdoor living offering spectacular views of the ocean and sunsets.
Dinner reception on beach. Photo courtesy of The Beach House
This is the perfect venue for the distinctive wedding where a bride can make a splendid entrance arriving by boat. Anguilla exudes delightful old charm. The unspoiled beaches and pristine waters of this dream island make it a hot-spot for celebrities and those seeking an ultra-chic, wedding.