Chic Bahamas Weddings

This cluster of 700 low-lying coral islands is one of the most popular choices for destination brides and grooms, thanks to the balmy weather, secluded beaches and easy access (the capital, Nassau, is just a 35-minute fl ight from Miami). New Providence, Grand Bahama and Paradise Island are home to the largest resorts, equipped with casinos, high-end shopping and plentiful night life. The Out Islands, which includes the Abacos and the Exumas, are more low-key, focusing instead on f shing, sailing and smaller B&Bs and hotels that cater to a laid-back crowd. It’s pretty easy to tie the knot here. Both parties need to have been in the Bahamas for 24 hours at the time they apply for a marriage license (valid for 90 days). But once it’s issued, you can marry the same day. You can obtain a marriage license from the of ce of the registrar general in Nassau or the local commissioner’s of ce if marrying in the Out Islands. — Nathan Jester

Swaying palm trees and dramatically aquamarine waters dominate The Cove Eleuthera, a reborn Bahamian resort. A chic white palate dominates the design, from cottages to linens to beach umbrellas. Louisiana-born entrepreneur Sidney D. Torres, IV, is your host at The Cove, where he indulges guests with the elements of style familiar to jet-setters. A pink sand beach is the backdrop for this serene scene, and that exquisite sand is ideal for wedding ceremonies. Say your vows under a rounded white fabric tent set onto the beach, and you’ll view the calm Caribbean Sea as you exchange rings. This sunny-chic escape has only 60 accommodations, meaning you and your guests can feel as if the space is yours, gathering around the hilltop infnity pool and the oceanfront sunset bar.

Chic Bahamas Weddings
Discriminating couples choose Chic Bahamas Weddings for distinctive ceremonies and celebrations. Thoughtfully managed by seasoned planner Marva Munroe, this weddings-focused frm delivers premium experiences — and hosts only one event a day. Munroe is renowned for her polished handling of fne details, luxury staging and quest for elegance. All 700 Bahamian islands are fair game for your wedding. Favorites include a beach ceremony that’s a whimsical 15-minute ferry ride from Grand Bahama Island, a sandbar at Exuma’s only luxury boutique hotel, and a lush garden setting on Nassau. 877-209-5543, chicbahamasweddings.com

Sandals Emerald Bay
At this 183-room resort on the shores of Great Exuma (a 40- minute fl ight from Miami), you’ll enjoy the turquoise waters and mile-long white sands as much as the half-acre, zeroentry pool with a fi re pit in the middle. Design your event with the Your Wedding, Your Style online tool; then wed beneath a bamboo canopy and savor a candlelit reception dinner, both on the resort’s private strand. Book an oceanfront villa and spend your honeymoon by its private pool. Or spring for a butler suite, and you won’t have to worry about anything but each other. 888-SANDALS, sandals.com — Jennifer Sembler