The Wedding Planner
Joan Maduro, Sales Manager
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

Considering a wedding in the Caribbean? With its year-around wonderful weather, tropical atmosphere, and now tourist-friendly wedding regulations that make it easy to marry on this island, Aruba makes a great destination for couples looking to make their walk down the aisle literally a sunny walk on the isle.

Located on lovely Palm Beach, the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is a top destination for weddings, offering all the on-site help you'll need to plan the wedding of your dreams. Lovetripper recently interviewed Joan Maduro, Sales Manager of this expansive property, for her tips on marrying in this tropical paradise. Joan, like other planners interviewed in this monthly column, has passed the Marriott International Wedding Certification Program. Joan also gives us her tips for planning a wedding in Aruba.

What aspects of your property are most attractive to brides?

The Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is a full service resort offering beautiful indoor as well as breathtaking outdoor locations to host weddings. Numerous dining options such as Ristorante Tuscany’s, Simply Fish, Ketsu, Champions, and La Vista offer a variety of cuisine.

The resort also offers beautifully appointed guests rooms featuring the largest balconies on Aruba.

Last but not least, after a long day of relaxation on the resort’s white sand beach, guests can gamble the night away in the Stellaris Casino - Aruba’s largest casino - which is open until the wee hours of the morning.

What are the most popular wedding venues at the property, both for large and small weddings?

Wedding ceremonies most commonly take place at sunset on the shore of the Caribbean Sea. The beach can serve as a fantastic setting for both large and small groups.

The North Beach Deck is the most popular location for both large and small wedding receptions as well as dinner dance events. This magnificent deck overlooks the beach and the ocean, and comfortably seats up to 350 people. Table tops are decorated with shimmering blue or silver overlays, sashes, and elegant tableware.

What local elements can a bride add to her wedding to give it a regional atmosphere?

Locally-inspired hors d’oeuvres using the island’s wide variety of seafood are a favorite element among guests, as are pastiches and empanadas. A variety of Dutch and French cheeses can also be lavishly displayed at the event.

A steel band definitely holds a firm first place in offering a local atmosphere. With Aruba’s proximity to Latin America, local bands widely sing melodies infused with the Meringue and Salsa melodies, and would therefore also be a good choice for local entertainment.

Although most any flower can be used for the décor of the wedding, the most sought for is the tropical Anthurium, ginger lilies, birds of paradise, and a variety of delicate orchids.

For brides planning a weekend wedding, what nearby attractions or on property activities are of special interest for their guests?

Various water sports are offered at the resort’s onsite water sports center, including windsurfing, kite surfing, jet skiing, and water skiing. Day trips on sailboats or catamarans can also be booked through the resort’s concierge or Red Sail Sports center.

For adventure seekers, guided safari tours of the island can be booked by jeeps or ATVs. In one day, you can easily visit all the notable sites of the island.

Click here for an interview with Joan about planning a wedding in Aruba

To plan a Marriott wedding, call the Marriott of your choice and ask to consult with the hotel's wedding event planner. For more information on Marriott Hotels, Resorts, and Suites, call 1-800-228-9290 or see www.marriott.com.

Photos courtesy Aruba Marriott