The Wedding Guru: Caribbean's First Over The Water Bungalow at the Famed HalfMoon Resort in Jamaica

The Wedding Guru: Caribbean's First Over The Water Bungalow at the Famed HalfMoon Resort in Jamaica

The Wedding Guru: Caribbean's First Over The Water Bungalow at the Famed HalfMoon Resort in Jamaica

The Wedding Guru: Caribbean's First Over The Water Bungalow at the Famed HalfMoon Resort in Jamaica

Caribbean's First Over The Water Bungalow at the Famed HalfMoon Resort in Jamaica

The Caribbean's first Over-the-water bungalow can be found at the fabulous five star hotel - HalfMoon Resort in Jamaica.

Attended a Destination Wedding Showcase event at this venerable property and as usual the service was above and beyond expectations. Arrived a day late to this event as I was speaking at the Luxury Travel Show in Las Vegas. However, upon my arrival I was taken to the Spa Suite (where I would spend the rest of the weekend) to get settled, and if I was so inclined I could join the others to visit a private home to view some of the best orchids grown in Jamaica.

Of course I could not pass up such a chance and quickly changed for this tour. This was at the home of a private citizen - Ms. Paulette Henry of Blooming Designs. This segment requires its own editorial Met the rest of the participants and team. Everything was done in style.

Before I continue with the tour and the events of the weekend, I must tell you about this property. The HalfMoon Resort is situated on over 400 lushly landscaped acres offering something for everyone. With 33 stately four to seven bedroom Royal Villas, each with its own personal staff and pool, 164 luxurious suites and 34 breathtaking rooms.

This provides an ideal setting for any wedding or romance celebration. The team is topnotch and the service extraordinary. No cookie cutter event, everything is personalized and at a competitive price. As part of this bridal showcase, events and setting were created to provide a glimpse at how events are planned and executed for the guests.

OVER THE WATER BUNGALOW

What I was intrigued with was the two new bungalows that was built over the clear, crystal and calm waters of the Caribbean Sea. At the moment they are being used for select spa treatments and yoga. When entering this structure, it is open all around to view the stillness of the sea and to hear the relaxing swoosh against the rocks. Being the romantic I quickly asked about private dinners by candlelight for those who desire this ambiance. The Director smiled and assured me that the objective is to please the client and arrangements could be made. Of course I immediately took that for a yes. So will certainly advise engaged couples on http://www.MarryCaribbean.com

Each event hosted by this venerable hotel was over the top. From the beach barbecue, night golf, rafting and picnic at Lethe to the final dinner at the Royal Villa. Visitors to Jamaica should never miss the rafting experience. Of course no trip to Halfmoon would be complete without the Dolphin encounter. An unforgettable experience you can meet, swim and even kiss the Dolphins in the Dolphin Lagoon. And as a final farewell you need to leave the property in the best mind, body and soul and that requires a trip the Fern Tree Spa.

FERN TREE SPA

Quoting from manual: "Tucked far away from the fast paced material world is a natural paradise embraced by two arms; one of the land and one of the sea. The Fern Tree Spa at HalfMoon is a nurturing refuge with native Caribbean healing powers drawn from both land and sea". My daughter who was with me in Las Vegas and traveled with me to HalfMoon declared this is the best ever. And she should know as her teenage life is full of massages, pedicures, facials and manicures.

A RETORSPECTIVE ON MEDIA AND IMPACT OF THE NEW PARADIGM ON YOUR B USINESS

A lot of attention is being paid to the recent bridal magazine closings, but it is easy to miss the big picture of the new and reordered media paradigm.

First, let's take a big step back and look at the US Post Office. Why the Post Office? Well, fifty years ago there were over 70,000 post offices serving slightly more than half the current US population. Back then, parents, siblings and others waited for their favorite mail to arrive. Today, before children can read or write they are exposed to the internet. As we move forward, Post Offices in the US continue to decline with less than half the amount of outlets serving a larger population.

Fast forward from the 70's through the 90's, the golden age of television and we witness the demise of alternate media vehicles such as once dominant large circulation publications such as Life, Look and Readers Digest (filed for bankruptcy in 2009). By the early 90's, publishing morphed into special interest and other magazines tailored to focused demographics rather than just general interest. Television expanded aggressively from the three major networks to a phalanx of cable channels too numerous to mention in this brief retrospective.

The really big trend with network television is they also could no longer depend on their large audiences and had to be more content driven like print and deal with the realities collectively and individually of smaller more qualified audience to ensure survival and prosperity.

Meanwhile newspapers have become more akin to General Motors, once being the king of the auto business. With over 100 major newspapers going out of business in the last year, survivors have found the changing media landscape pockmarked with challenges.

First, savvy marketers have more options than ever before to match their products with compatible marketing and media. In general, print provides sight: radio delivers sound and television encompasses both. On the other hand, online provides all the above with enhanced ability to be interactive and instantaneous.

I saw the writing on the wall four years ago with the convergence of the internet and on-line medium. I have not looked back since. The formation and promotion of my websites, http://www.MarryCaribbean.com, http://www.GlobalWeddingResource.com and others. We continue to gain new perspectives and an intimate relationship, particularly with engaged couples looking to get married or honeymoon in the Caribbean. Today the online world is taking a more prominent role in the selection, education and decision process of the entire bridal market.

MARRYCARIBBEAN.COM ENHANCES WEB SITE

MarryCaribbean.com Enhances Web Site with Video Components

Stamford, Connecticut, August 26, 2009

MarryCaribbean.com, the premiere web site for all things Caribbean weddings and honeymoons, has made it even easier to select your wedding destination by adding video clips to the web site. Destinations and hotels currently featured include the U.S. Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands and Half Moon Resort in Jamaica. Also new in the video library is the “Wedding Guru Speaks,” a 3-part series featuring the latest updates on the island protocols, warm-weather dress styles, expectations, travel documentation, etc.—by a seasoned, Caribbean-born expert.

“Our vision for the site is to create a vehicle to make decision making easier and video is just another tool to help with the process, said Jacqueline Johnson, the creative mind behind MarryCaribbean.com. We share in the excitement of every couple tying the knot and if we can take some of the challenge out of planning a destination wedding then our work is done.”

MarryCaribbean.com recently formed partnerships with on-line booking agent Travelocity and the hotel review site Oyster.com. Visitors can read comprehensive expert hotel reviews, choose that ideal location, and book travel all with the click of a mouse.

If the indulgent Caribbean is where you’ve always wanted to exchange vows and share your first days as husband and wife, visit the internets most complete listing of resources on destination weddings and honeymoons, www.marrycaribbean.com. The site is designed to encourage visitor interaction so share your stories and photos. Follow the Wedding Guru…Twitter: http://twitter.com/MarryCaribbean; Youtube: http://youtube.com/MarryCaribbean; FaceBook: http://www.facebook.com/Jacqueline.MarryCaribbean; Blog: http://www.BlogTheWeddingGuru.blogspot.com; Linkedin: http://www.Linkedin.com/MarryCaribbean

THE WEDDING GURU

The expertise of the Wedding Guru in the Caribbean wedding and honeymoon market is unrivaled. A product of the Caribbean, the Guru spent more than 20 years with the top Bridal Magazines. Promoting weddings, honeymoons and the romantic Caribbean is more than a business—it’s a passion!

SURVIVING THE AMERICAN DREAM

Today I digress from the usual update to provide a synopsis of Surviving the American Dream or basically surviving in this great land.

I guess the trials of living and working in a competitive environment evens the playing field with stories from each and everyone of us. The good, the bad and the terrible, we each have our own stories. But this is not about that. This is about the deliberate workings of the insecure, the racist, the intellectually challenged, the shakedown artist and so forth. You would be amazed at the lengths some individuals will go to create havoc in someone's life.

The Publishing Industry which offers some of the best education and opportunities for financial gain and exposure, is one of the most 'closed' industries you could ever find. This is an industry that has limited opportunities for minorities (and I mean blacks). It is a rarity when you find a decision maker who is black. I remember always scanning the 'trades' to see if they would include a black face in any of the party photos or company photos. Yes, there is racism everywhere, but no more so than in this industry. I am not talking about years ago, this is about now. Check the roster of any magazines and see how many blacks they employ. Look at sales opportunities and if you can find 10 black sales professionals in decision making positions within mainstream magazines I am willing to apologize.

My brief overview is not too much about the injustices inflicted on all of us, but the deliberate attempt to create destruction in our lives, due to envy and the need to 'keep us in our places'. I have been very fortunate, in that I have come in contact and made lasting friends with some awesome people. Friends who will go the extra mile to help or provide any kind of support I need. But then there are those who go out of their way to create havoc.

The amazing thing is that when targeted, they will go to any lengths to try and destroy you. If you are of limited faith or are insecure, survival is not possible. You must wake up each day with renewed faith and vigor to combat all negatives in your life. I do believe in heaven and hell, and if at the end of this journey I find there is no hell, I am going to be extremely disappointed.,

I am from the Caribbean, and made of sterner stuff. It is impossible to break me and I will survive and prosper. I was brought up to believe in myself and that I could achieve my dream through hard work and smart choices. The competitive environment that I have chosen to be in, makes me a pioneer in this field and the only black or non white to own a business. Yes, there are those who would like to see me fail, and there are those who have made me their special target, but be warned as I do firmly believe that if you start a fight you must have the courage to finish it, as I do intend to finish it for you.

STONEFIELD ESTATE IN ST.LUCIA

Have you ever walked into a hotel and thought you have entered nirvana. Such is the feeling you get when you visit Stonefield Estate in St. Lucia. Lush gardens, fruit trees, breathtaking scenery and hidden hideouts that are villas, all make for a real like Eden experience.

This enchanted resort offers its finest in accommodation, cuisine, service and spa with affordable packages which is bound to give value for money. The famous Mango Restaurant offers a one of a kind experience with a close up look at the Pitons (St. Lucia's twin mountains) and the wide expanse of the ocean. The local herbs grown on the property is used in the cuisine and served on Stonefield Estate's signature clay plates.

One way to gauge the attraction of a hotel is its large local clientele. It is a sure sign that the service, food and hospitality is above and beyond. Why? local clients are the toughest on hotel offerings. To me the attraction of this hotel besides the amenities is none other than its superb General Manager - Mr. Ernie George. He attends to every detail and with a crackerjack staff, you lack for nothing, and all done with hospitality that leaves you marveling.

Nestled in the rain forest, the resort boasts 18 neatly well disguised villas, each with their private plunge pools, and open garden showers. The accommodation comes in various categories ranging from one bedroom superior - US$100.00: premium deluxe US$110.00 - suite US$120.00 - two bedroom luxury US$200.00 - three bedroom luxury US$250.00 and these rates will hold until December 29, 2009. Such luxury and attention to detail at these bargain rates is sure to bring in the lovers - honeymoons, destination weddings, those looking to connect with each other and of course nature lovers. Something for everyone.

Flights into and out of St. Lucia are extremely competitive at this time of the year, so do not hesitate to check this property out.

With regard to destination weddings or honeymoons, this very able and gracious General Manager will create your fantasy at an affordable cost. All details will be taken care of, attended to, and most important it will all be stress free. Think of yourself in paradise, the day before you "Say I Do' and getting the best his & hers massage of your life. And there the fantasy begins.... Stonefield Villa Estate Resort - http://www.stonefieldvillas.com or check out http://www.Marrycaribbean.com

UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS TRIP

I always look forward to my trips to the United States Virgin Islands. This visit was to attend the annual Symposium put on by the St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix Hotel Association. And as usual, they do not disappoint.

A very professional run organization, subject matter and attendees treated with the utmost respect, hotel offerings of good quality and allotted time to visit places of interest, whether it is your favorite jewelry store, sailing or whatever else catches your fancy, as you are truly in paradise. I have to digress and acknowledge with thanks the Award received "The partner Who Contributes The Most To Our Local Economy", which I now have prominently displayed in my office.

The main event was held at the Marriott Frenchman's Reef Hotel, St. Thomas, and the staff was on top of their game to make sure all preparations including av and food was seamless and on time. Events were also held at various hotels, so that everyone had a chance to visit the different properties. I stayed downtown at the Windward Passage Hotel run by one of the best managers in the Caribbean, Ms. Wein Demetrios. At this hotel, all details are attended to.

Once the Symposium on St. Thomas was finished, I headed over to St. Croix along with a few wholesalers for a site inspection. Took the seaplane over (which I do like - you take off in the water and land in the water)and then was whisked away to see the first property, The Palms at Pelican Cove. A lavish lunch was provided and the very generous manager - Ms. Julie Printy decided to give away a few hotel stays. I was one of the lucky recipients and upon a full inspection of the hotel, thought it was the ideal place to get away from everything. Great beach, lots of privacy all in a very casual manner.

Next property was the Caravelle Hotel. It is downtown St. Croix on the waterfront. This is a lovely historic property, and you are greeted in the lobby entrance with a fountain. The hardest part of this inspection was to get me to leave room 222 - as this beautiful room was the ultimate - overlooking the waterfront.

The King Christian Hotel was next - a pretty and inviting lobby, again on the waterfront. If you are looking to go to the beach, there is a 2 minute ferry ride to the beach. Chenay Bay Hotel was next on the list - could have stayed at the open air restaurant on the beach all day. I did not eat at this hotel, but I understand their food is one of the best. I also noticed that the beach hut was covered with netting to make sure you were never bothered by anything pesky. A good selling point for me. Stayed at the Divi Resort. Lovely rooms facing the beautiful Caribbean Sea, and of course for those with the energy and inclination, there is a very large casino across the street. Always love this property. A touch of class with all amenities, but one that offers down to earth relaxation.

CARIBBEAN WEDDING IN NEW YORK

It was a sincere privilege to select and organize the MarryCaribbean.com/Caribbean Tourism Organization wedding in New York for Lisa and Brian.

Lisa & Brian were the lucky winners of the sweepstakes promotion. They are just fabulous people and unlike the drama surrounding most brides, they both took it all in stride. A sincere pleasure working with them. When I met the parents I knew why their daughter was so even keel. It seems to run in the family.

The promotion went live on http://MarryCaribbean.com in March and the response was phenomenal. Each contestant had to write an essay on how they met, and why they wanted to honeymoon in the Caribbean. The event took place at the Manhattan Center on June 11th, 2009.

Supporting the efforts and providing gifts for the fabulous couple: British Virgin Islands: Honeymoon at Biras Creek (including air) United States Virgin Islands: His & hers diamond rings from Cardow Jewellers St. Lucia: Fabulous flowers St. Kitts: Wedding cake by Dreamy Weddings Bahamas: Wedding gown compliments of Demetrios Starwood Hotels: The procreation vacation Palmyra Hotel: First Anniversary trip Heart to Heart: The beautiful bridal bouquets Make-up: Annette Meeks GlobalWeddingResource.com: Champagne/bridal knife and fork, etc. MarryCaribbean.com: Minister Keith Gugliuzza

The ceremony was conducted by Keith@nyMarriages.com and he did a fabulous job. I was so impressed with his performance, that he will now do all my New York weddings. The Master of Ceremonies was the Director of Tourism for the British Virgin Islands, and she was superb in the role. A very beautiful event at the Manhattan Center.

They were serenaded the following night at a black tie event at the Plaza hotel where they did the traditional 'first dance'. It was another well orchestrated and fabulous event.

All this was done to promote the offerings of the Caribbean during the 'Annual Caribbean Week'. What better place to have a romantic wedding or honeymoon than in the beautiful Caribbean.

JAMAICA TRIP

The Travel Convention Season is very much underway, and had to be in Jamaica last week for the annual JAPEX Conference (Jamaica Product Exchange). I must say I do enjoy attending these events as I find it a great way to make new friends, and renew old acquaintances, while viewing the latest government and hotel offerings.

RITZ CARLTON HOTEL
Stayed at the Ritz Carlton hotel in Montego Bay (convention hotel)and was quite pleased to see that the property had a small face lift in the lobby area. New and colorful area rugs and strategically placed relaxing furniture, of course done in the Ritz Carlton style. Rooms were always elegant and housekeeping does a great job of keeping it clean. As usual I checked in without fanfare as I like to travel the way my audience from http://www.MarryCaribbean.com does. The checking in process was easy and the young ladies at the desk were helpful and all smiles, but most important room was ready and very clean.

Met with the Executive Director of Rooms the next day (knew him from a past life) and was so very happy to see him. Absolutely charming gentleman, and of course he was very anxious to show me what they are doing to attract more destination weddings and honeymoons. Two rooms were used to display some of the offerings. Was very impressed with the floral arrangements and the florists used for this occasion.

JAPEX
Most of the hotels were in attendance and of course destination weddings and honeymoons featured prominently. Jamaica garners the lion's share of this market from the United States and each hotel is trying grow their share of the market. There were new and updated properties eg: Moondance, Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts, the renovated and updated Wexford Hotel and all the old favorites: HalfMoon Resort & Spa, Superclubs, Sandals/Beaches, Tryall, Sunset Jamaica Grande, Roundhill to name a few.

The evenings were sponsored events, and Sandals hosted the group for a dinner on their private island. I must tell you that Sandals Resorts events are never to be missed. You arrive at Sandals Montego Bay and then take their ferry for a five minute ride to their island. You are greeted by some of the best trained staff on the island, there is music, numerous food stations(Italian, Chinese, Jamaican etc.) I am always in awe of Mr. Butch Stewart and what he has accomplished, especially in the tourism sector. No wonder his properties are always in demand. He truly delivers on the product and all at a competitive price.

PRICING
Due to the economy now is the best time to take advantage of all the promotional pricing and amenities. From airlines to hotels, everyone had something of value to offer.

Caribbean Tourism Organization Foundation Auction

WE NEED YOUR HELP!! The economy has severely cut donor spending - no surprise here. However, the need to provide educational funding is greater than ever.

As the Chairman of the Tourism Organization Foundation, it is my role to help seek out opportunities to generate revenues for this worthy cause.

HOW CAN YOU PARTICIPATE? C-Market Network - Bidding for Good; one of the most respected and prominent online auction sites in the United States is donating time, space, commissions to create a Private Branded CTO Foundation Auction portal. We need you to provide a trip or product that we can auction off on the site.

WHAT IS THE BENEFIT TO MY COMPANY? In addition to a qualified workforce, your company will have national exposure on "Bidding for Good" for three weeks while the auction is running. Additional information can be found on http://www.marryCaribbean.com, http://www.GlobalWeddingResource.com and all major social networks.

WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM REVENUE GENERATED? Every dollar earned will go the Foundation. No payment to staff, volunteers or C-Market.

WHERE DO I SEND INFORMATION? Jacqueline Johnson,CTC Email:Jacqueline@MarryCaribbean.com or Jjohnsonctc@aol.com Phone:203-461-8423 Fax:203-461-8427

THANK YOU!! A very big thank you to HalfMoon Hotel & Resort in Montego Bay Jamaica for the first hotel to offer a week's stay. HalfMoon hotel is one of the premier properties in Jamaica nestled on over 400 acres. They are renowned for their attention to detail and hospitality, and as an upscale prperty all amenities are the finest.

The second hotel to offer a Caribbean Wedding & honeymoon package was none other than St. Lucia's historic and fabulous property, FondDoux Holiday Plantation. If you are lucky enough to bid and get this package, you will stay at the hotel visited by Prince Charles. Eroline, who presides over this gem of a property, will show you a new level of Caribbean hospitality.

Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Expo

The Performance Media Group headed by Mark Murphy - President/CEO will launch the Virtual Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Expo on April 25 - 26, 2009. The site will remain on-demand through June 19, 2009.

I was asked to be the Keynote speaker for this virtual show and so drove to New Jersey to film the webinar. A very interesting and dynamic way to reach over 4,000 brides. As everyone in the bridal industry knows, online now plays a key role in the decision making process of engaged couples.

The two day event will mimic a traditional land-based bridal show, but in an online, 3-D environment. Engaged couples/brides can attend virtual seminars, panel discussions and presentations in which multi-media allow a highly interactive environment to get and share information.

An Exhibition Hall enables consumers to head straight to the booths of interest, download brochures, watch videos and interact with sales representatives via chat capabilities. All of this is done with one click of a tab.

I will be the Moderator in the Exhibition Hall and my Account Executive Katrina Johnson will answer questions at the MarryCaribbean.com booth.

There is much for the bride to choose from as it relates to her Destination Wedding or Caribbean Honeymoon. Hotels such as Superlcubs, Halfmoon Resort in Jamaica, Stonefield Estate Villa Resort & FondDoux Holiday Plantation in St. Lucia are offering very attractive packages. (See http://www.MarryCaribbean.com for details) With the wedding season in high gear, destinations such as the United States Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, Jamaica, Bahamas to name a few, that invest in the promotion of this industry will continue to garner the 'lion's share of this business.

I am looking forward to being a part of this highly anticipated show and help promote the offerings of the Caribbean.

Tying the Knot Caribbean Style

Tying the Knot Caribbean Style

The Caribbean will bring a little romance to New York during Caribbean Week and prove that Life Needs the Caribbean as the CTDC partners with MarryCaribbean.com to host an island-flavored wedding on stage at the Caribbean Fair. The wedding will take place at 3:00pm Wednesday June 10, 2009.

According to Jacqueline Johnson, president of MarryCaribbean.com and a CTO Allied Board Member, the wedding and honeymoon market is part of a constantly regenerating marketplace delivering much needed revenues to the Caribbean on a year round basis.

“The weddings and honeymoon market is continuing to hold strong, despite the global economic struggle. People still want to get married, have a honeymoon and take care of both in the most romantic region in the world, the Caribbean,” said Johnson. “Weddings are always a 'crowd pleaser' in that it draws awareness to the Caribbean, and additional visitors to the fair.”

The Caribbean Wedding will be heavily promoted in the news media and, in addition, information on the event will be on MarryCaribbean.com, GlobalWeddingResource.com, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and other social networks.

A number of sponsors are already on board for the event:

• Wedding Cake sponsored by Dreamy Weddings of St. Kitts

• Wedding Dress by Demetrios

• Rings by The United States Virgin Islands

• Honeymoon by the British Virgin Islands/Biras Creek Resort

• Bridal Knife & Fork by MarryCaribbean.com

• Day of event utensils, etc. by GlobalWeddingResource.com

• First Anniversary Holiday by Palmyra A Soltis Resort & Spa, Jamaica

Additional sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more information contact Jacqueline Johnson at Jacqueline@marrycaribbean.com

BRIDAL SHOWS

With the bridal season underway, bridal shows are reporting large numbers of engaged couples in attendance. Just received this information from another show: The Great Bridal Expo.

"LIVE FROM DALLAS, TEXAS....Runway explodes with excitement, Fashion Trends, & Honeymoon Show... as Great Bridal Expo Fashion show gets underway in Dallas, Texas.

Travel Industry flocks to show in numbers never seen in years. Honeymoons the one bright spot in a depressed Travel Industry. Most Honeymoon destinations are now looking to this bright spot to generate record Destination & Honeymoon revenue. Real Estate & Finance a close second and much more is forecast from these sectors as plans start for the expansion of The Great Bridal Expo shows across the United States".

Caribbean destinations/hotels interested in the lucrative destination wedding & honeymoon markets should make sure they have a presence at these shows.

For further information on the Great Bridal Expo and show dates visit: http://www.Greatbridalexpo.com, and for more information on Caribbean Weddings & Honeymoons visit: http://www.MarryCaribbean.com

Caribbean Destination Weddings & Honeymoons

Although the economy is creating havoc within some industries, the destination wedding & honeymoon markets are still going strong.

Beneficiary of this constantly regenerating market is certainly the Caribbean. More couples are interested in getting married in the region, due to the perceived value and low out of pocket costs.

The travel market in this climate have more competitive offerings, than at any other time that I can remember, and I have been in this business a very long time.

What is the Caribbean doing to stimulate and grow market share? Well the upcoming Caribbean Week scheduled for June 10, 2009 will highlight all the Caribbean has to offer.

DO IT CARIBBEAN WEDDING
As part of Caribbean Week, http://www.MarryCaribbean.com in conjunction with the Caribbean Tourism Organization will highlight and promote the Romance of the Caribbean.

A lucky couple will be selected to get married at the Caribbean Fair. Bridal gown by Demetrios, wedding cake by Dreamy Weddings, honeymoon by the British Virgin Islands/Biras Creek. All information can be found on http://www.MarryCaribbean.com.

Individual destinations/hotels are keeping a presence in this market through targeted promotions. With limited dollars the era of mass campaigns are over and of course so is the viewing and reading habits of today's brides.

With the hotel offerings in high gear, there is something to fit everyone's budget and what better place to get married than in the Caribbean - the oasis of the western hemisphere.

Two hotels that come mind that offer fantastic views and have taken hospitality to the next level: Fonddoux Holiday Plantation Estate in St. Lucia (fonddoux@candw.lc). Eroline will go out of her way to make sure your event is personal, special and all you ever thought it to be. Another great property with service and enthusiasm to transport you to another realm is Stonefield Estate Villa Resort & Spa (stonefieldvillas@gmail.com)St. Lucia. Tell Ernie, Jacqueline sent you.

BRIDAL UPDATE

MARRYCARIBBEAN BRIDAL UPDATE

STATE OF THE INDUSTRY

While the news is constantly about the economic woes we are all mired in, the Wedding & Honeymoon markets seems to be defying all trends. Couples are still getting married, and still spending, even though the spending may be a bit less.

The recent 2008 Wedding Report shows the following:

Year.............................Estimated Weddings
2007.............................2,206,600
2008.............................2,212,923
2009.............................2,219,264

Average number of guests:166

Weddings by Ethnicity
African American................267,068
Asian............................96,124
Hispanic........................331,645

Total Spending
Year..............................Total Spending
2007..............................$28,732.
2008..............................$28,704.
2009..............................$29,614

As you can see thee is a slight reduction in 2008. However expenditure is expected to rise in 2009. This is a market that is truly resilient to market fluctuations, wars and acts of God.

A quick review of the consumers that go to MarryCaribbean.com shows an overwhelming amount with an interest in destination weddings.

Honeymoons
Year.............................Expenditure
2007.............................$3,716.00
2008.............................$3,805.00
2009.............................$3,921.00

Average Spending for Reception
Year.............................Expenditure
2007.............................$7,562.00
2008.............................$7,968.00
2009.............................$8,243.00

If further information is needed, please do not hesitate to contact me.

READING HABITS

The new economy has truly defined not only the spending habits but also our method of getting information.

Today's engaged couples overwhelmingly seek out information online thereby creating additional problems for the bridal print industry..less engaged couples picking up the magazine at the newsstand. As we all know, newsstand copies shows the vitality of the product.

"According to Media Life Magazine, an industry newsletter, - consumers cut back on extras during these difficult times to compensate for other necessities. That means fewer impulse buys at the supermarket, like the magazines that line the checkout line."

CREATING PRODUCT AWARENESS

In the past I have recommended using all tools available to help with the marketing of your individual sites. I will again remind you. Do participate in 'chat rooms', Facebook, Twitter etc. If you are pressed for time, please hire a young responsible person for 5 hours per week to keep you out there in cyberspace. It is a very cost effective way to save you time, but expand your web or product offering.

MARRYCARIBBEAN.COM NEWS

I am pleased to announce that MarryCaribbean.com is now a partner with Travelocity.

I will also be a guest speaker at the upcoming Caribbean Bridal Expo in Puerto Rico.

Hope you like the new www.MarryCaribbean.com format. With today's audience you have to constantly stay on the cutting edge.

Attended Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Marketplace in St. Lucia. CHTA is to be commended for the awesome tradeshow and scheduling. Of course it did not hurt that it was held in beautiful St. Lucia.

Stayed at the Bay Gardens Hotel - and could not find a more well trained and nicer staff. I congratulate Ms Berthia Parle on the fantastic selection of Ms. Waltrude Patrick as her General Manager. She was sharp, on the ball, very very gracious and runs a tight ship. I was impressed.

More information and partnership announcements to come.

CARIBBEAN TOURISM ORGANIZATION FOUNDATION

As Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization Foundation, I would like to ask each and everyone of you to contribute to this very important foundation. The main aim of the CTO Foundation is to provide scholarships and study grants to student and industry personnel who are Caribbean Nationals from CTO member countries.

Giving back to the region whee you do business should be a high priority and the return on this investment creates a much more qualified workforce, and of course you become better corporate citizens in the environment in which you do business.

Love Endures All Things, Even A Struggling Economy

To say that 2008 was a difficult year, was truly an understatement. However, one constant seems to be the resilient Wedding & Honeymoon markets. You can imagine my surprise and subsequent confirmation that this market is truly one that defies our present economic downturn when I read the update from Holiday Inn Aruba and Jamaica Resorts, that they were setting Destination Weddings Record.

This information was published December 22, 2008 and is as follows:

"Wedding bells rang at a record pace at the Holiday Inn Resorts Aruba & Jamaica in 2008, as the sister properties combined to host 525 destination weddings throughout the year". It goes on to say: " Love endures all things, even a struggling economy. People have and will continue to get married. With our program enabling brides and grooms to affordably tie the knot in wonderfully unique and memorable ways, we expect this market to remain strong for us into 2009 and beyond." (Raul Villagram, Director of Sales & Marketing)

The research gathered from www.MarryCaribbean.com seems to confirm this. There is an increase in questions as it relates to Destination Weddings more so than just honeymoons. Because of the economy more people are getting married; two can live as cheaply as one, and where one may lose a job the other has health benefits, but of course love trumps all things.

MarryCaribbean.com goal is to be the best single source for wedding and honeymoon planning in the Caribbean. Recent activity for the month of December/January reveals a high interest in the Caribbean. But of course anyone operating in this industry knows that we are in the highest engagement season.