Can you get married in Martinique?
Today we are continuing our series on French colonies for destination weddings, and today we are looking at a Martinique Wedding with the help of multi-award winning wedding planner Val Mattinson of Benessamy Wedding & Event Planning.
Martinique is a French Caribbean island and is part of the lesser Antilles or the “Windward Islands”. With the Atlantic Ocean against its eastern coast and the Caribbean Sea on the West Coast, it offers, both lush tropical forest as well as beautiful sandy beaches.
Whether your idea of Caribbean wanderlust is a thrill-seeking adventure mix of hiking and jet skiing or you’re looking for more of a hammock swing or cabana bed experience, Martinique has something for you. The island has four volcanoes including Mount Pelé located in the north at the highest point of the island. These along with the island’s mountains, make it popular for those who enjoy hiking, adventure and incredible views. The island also has an array of beautiful sandy beaches.
What is the best month to get married in the Caribbean?
Martinique is tropical and generally hot and humid all year round. From January to mid-April (known as Carême or Lent), it’s cool and dry. From mid-June to mid-November (Hivernage), it’s the hot humid rainy season.
The peak tourist season on the island is between December to April and the island’s popular carnival season is from Lent to Easter. The best months for your destination wedding in Martinique are May or early June (or the end of November which is at the end of the hurricane season ahead of when the tourist season generally gets underway).
Is Martinique good for tourists?
As well as checking out the island’s capital Fort-de-France, here are the Top 5 places to visit during your stay in Martinique
Grand Anse d’Arlet
Situated on the coastline of Martinique, Grand Anse d’Arlet is renowned for its tranquil ambiance, soft sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters. It presents an ideal setting for unwinding before or after your destination wedding, providing ample opportunities for sunbathing, leisurely swims, and immersive snorkeling experiences among vibrant marine life.
Jardin de Balata
Jardin de Balata is a botanical haven in Martinique, boasting luxuriant gardens, soaring palm trees, and a kaleidoscope of blossoms. This captivating environment sets the stage for leisurely, romantic strolls and pre-wedding photoshoots. Meander through its winding pathways and discover the symphony of nature’s beauty that surrounds you.
Habitation Clement
Delve into the cultural tapestry of Martinique at Habitation Clement. This historic estate invites you to savor the island’s most exquisite rums, delve into the secrets of age-old distilleries, and immerse yourselves in the captivating narrative of sugar production. It’s an enriching journey into Martinique’s past, offering a unique and flavorful experience that you can share with your Martinique wedding party.
Saint Pierre Martinique
Saint Pierre Martinique is a captivating fusion of French-Caribbean allure and coastal charm. Its picturesque streets, overlooking the glistening sea, provide a captivating backdrop for pre-wedding explorations. Immerse yourselves in the town’s rich cultural heritage, from its historic ruins to the vibrant waterfront. Discover the island’s unique appeal and create lasting memories as you soak in its captivating ambiance.
What do you need to get married in Martinique?
Like other French Caribbean islands, the residency requirements for couples is quite long, with a minimum of at least 30 days. In addition to the residency requirement:
- Couples must take a blood test and their medical certificate needs to be issued within 3 months of the wedding day,
- Additional documentation required – original birth certificates or a copy with a raised seal and a certificate of good conduct proving single status (if previously married, a certified copy of final divorce decree or death certificate is also required).
- All documents must be translated in French.
A popular choice for couples planning their destination wedding in Martinique is to opt for a symbolic ceremony on the island with a legal ceremony back home before they travel.
Conclusion
In the heart of the Caribbean, Martinique emerges as an enticing destination for couples seeking an extraordinary wedding experience. This French Caribbean gem offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, from lush forests to pristine beaches. Selecting the perfect time for your Caribbean celebration is pivotal, with May or early June, and the end of November, presenting favorable weather conditions. Explore the island’s wonders, be sure to visit its Top 5 destinations. Grand Anse d’Arlet beckons with tranquil beaches and vibrant marine life, while Jardin de Balata enchants with botanical splendor. Embark on a thrilling hike up Mount Pelée for panoramic island views and delve into Martinique’s rich heritage at Habitation Clement.
The picturesque streets of Saint Pierre Martinique offer a captivating backdrop for pre-wedding explorations. While the administrative requirements for marriage in Martinique may involve some intricacies, the island’s allure promises a unique and memorable celebration. Consider a symbolic ceremony on the island, complemented by a legal one back home, to simplify the process. Martinique stands as a remarkable choice for a French destination wedding, where the island’s charm and diverse landscapes create the perfect canvas for your love story.
