A Romantic, Beach Wedding at Oil Nut Bay in Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Kristy Morgan and Patrick Sands were engaged on July 7, 2015. It was Kristy’s birthday, and her dog Lucy was attacked by a porcupine. Although the furry friend initially threw off Patrick’s proposal plan, Lucy was just fine after a trip to the vet, and Patrick popped the question on a cliff overlooking his ranch. Just as Kristy accepted, a hummingbird and butterfly landed on the tree next to them, making the moment even more magical. 

The wedding planning process began with a trip to the British Virgin Islands to see the wedding venue. After some renovation complications with the first venue, another stepped up to save the day – Oil Nut Bay, where Kristy and Patrick spent their first vacation together.

Due to the change in wedding plans and certain guests not being able to attend their destination wedding in the BVI, the couple also had a small church wedding in Texas with a brunch hosted by the groom’s mother. The invitation suite was a special highlight, as it included a custom seal inspired by the animals present on the engagement day.

When the big day arrived, the bride and groom exchanged vows on Oil Nut Bay’s sandy beach. White chairs were set up in the sand facing the ocean, and driftwood from three different islands bordered the aisle. Overhead, an arbor was wrapped in peonies and spotted with pieces of rose quartz. “Since it’s known as the crystal of unconditional love, we included a reading about rose quartz during the ceremony, educating guests on the importance of its presence throughout the day,” describes Kristy.

After the nuptials, guests were led to the reception area through a stone footpath lined with hanging jars filled with peonies. During cocktail hour, a variety of Caribbean-inspired treats was served, including jerk spiced tuna bites and conch fritters. Tables were arranged around a lagoon-esque pool and topped with ocean blue linens for the reception dinner. Sparkling tealights spotted each table, while string lights were hung between palm trees to add a festive vibe to the beachy scene. Each table was also finished with strands of rose quartz and silver vases of pink peonies.

Two wedding cakes were served, one being created by the ranch chef with the couple’s crest and sugar geodes. The other was by LSL Bakery from Virgin Gorda, which was decorated with a beautiful turquoise agate design to match the décor. 

With the Tony Suraci band at the helm – a non-negotiable part of the day, as Kristy and Patrick heard the group at a friend’s wedding and flew them down to the BVI – guests danced the night away under the stars. Mocko Jumbie dancers brought the party to even greater heights, with stilt dancers being a cultural icon of the British Virgin Islands. As the night drew to a close, fireworks were lit over the ocean, marking the end of a gorgeous day.