When it comes to destination weddings in the Caribbean, it doesn’t get much more exclusive and luxurious than a Canouan wedding. At Mandarin Oriental, Canouan, couples and their guests will enjoy a secluded hideaway with the most spectacular suites and villas, anticipatory service, and unspoiled natural beauty. Even with today’s rise in micro weddings and destination elopements, this remote property is perfect for making even the smallest gathering an unforgettable experience. Jennifer Leiva, Marketing & Communications Manager, shares more about hosting a Canouan wedding at Mandarin Oriental and what makes this tiny island the ultimate in Caribbean luxury.
GO: How would you describe the architectural style of Mandarin Oriental, Canouan?
A: Elegant colonial-style suites and chic, Italian-design Patio Villas.
GO: When is your busiest time of year, and how far in advance should couples book if they hope to secure a date during those months?
A: Our busiest time of year is winter season and one year in advance is guaranteed to be enough time to plan the perfect Canouan wedding.
GO: Is there a type of wedding that fits best with your venue? (i.e. Traditional, glamorous, bohemian, rustic, etc.)
A: There is not a specific type of wedding that best fits our venue. We’ll help couples personalize every element, from bouquets and boutonnieres to custom wedding cakes. Whether couples are dreaming of an elegant beachfront banquet or an intimate ceremony by the sea, we’ll handle every detail to their specifications. Our onsite Wedding Specialist will ensure each couple’s celebration reflects their personal style and taste.
GO: In what type(s) of cuisine does your culinary team specialize?
A: Pan-Asian, seafood, Mediterranean, and Peruvian Nikkei.
GO: What type of activities are available for guests to partake in during a Canouan wedding weekend?
A: Complimentary non-motorized water sports; kayaking, snorkeling, windsurfing, hobie cat sailing and paddle boarding, plus boat excursions, tennis, golf, and hiking.
GO: What facilities, restaurants, or catering options do you have available for wedding week events like welcome dinners or post-wedding farewell brunches?
A: The resort is home to a collection of atmospheric restaurants accompanied by stunning ocean views. Couples have the option of selecting from five food and beverage outlets located within the resort, four additional dining outlets outside of the resort (part of a 1,200-acre estate community Grenadines Estate), and a non-denominational 17th Century Anglican Church on an island where wedding ceremonies can take place and dining can be set up in front of the church.
In addition, Godahl Beach is located at the resort where we can host beach brunches or lunches, and hillside villas can be used for private dinners. Also, the 18-hole golf course is the perfect location for sunset cocktails right before dinner, and the yoga pavilion at the spa can be used as another facility as well.
GO: What are some nearby attractions that guests can visit?
A: There’s so much to discover on Canouan and neighboring islands, such as Tobago Cays, that offer swimming with sea turtles. Only a short boat ride away, visitors can snorkel the Caribbean’s largest living coral reef, join a tour guide for a 20-minute uphill trek on Mount Royal – the highest peak on Canouan standing 877 feet above sea level – for a bird’s-eye view of the entire Grenadine archipelago, plus choose from five immaculate beaches on island; Mahault Beach, Shell Beach, Godahl Beach (Mandarin Oriental, Canouan’s main beach), L’Ance Guyac Beach, Carenage Bay, and Twin Bay.
