The ubiquitous beach wedding has held fast onto the hearts of many brides-to-be for years. A must-have factor for many destination weddings, beach ceremonies have been Belize’s forte for as long as it’s had paradisical stretches of silky sand. (So, since the dawn of time.) However, an adventurous, more “in” venue for destination weddings in Belize has been on the rise over the past few years: Waterfall Weddings.
After a year of having our world turned upside down, why not flip the status quo on destination ceremonies as well? If you, like many engaged couples, have unfortunately had to delay your big day, now is the time to plan for it in Belize. While wedding season may look a little different this year, here’s the case for opting out of a beach wedding to waterfall-side for next year.
Plenty of options to choose from
Big Rock Falls in Mountain Pine Ridge. Image courtesy Duarte Dellarole
In Belize, waterfall-chasing is a whole new sport; most regions have more than one ready for adventuring. Popular ones like Big Rock Falls or Butterfly Falls in Mountain Pine Ridge are the first choices when it comes to tying the knot. But Maya King in the southern district of Stann Creek is great should you want something easily accessible and close to world-class resorts. Stay at the nearby Lodge at Jaguar Reef, where the property itself is teeming with a romantic ambiance. Prep for the big day in one of the sea view villas, before making your way to Maya King Waterfalls only a half-hour drive away.
Jaw-dropping wedding photos
Photo Courtesy: Hidden Valley Inn
The jungle scene at the location will be something straight out of a fantasy. The intimacy between you, your partner, and all loved ones present is only magnified by the sight before you. Sounds from the swaying rainforest, gushing falls, and jungle critters spring to life as you wait for one of the best moments of your life to begin. Sure, the miles of the Caribbean Sea stretching behind you and your better half in wedding photos are very nice.
Trash the dress after your waterfall wedding. Image courtesy Leonardo Melendez Photography
But a giant cascade as a backdrop? You don’t see that very often on Pinterest. Imagine: the wedding dress fanned out over the jutting rocks, as you and your newly-wed stare into each other’s starlit eyes. Now, that’s Vogue-worthy.
A memory unlike any other
Have your union by blessed by a traditional Mayan shaman in Belize. Image by Monica Gallardo Photography
As if the site isn’t unique enough, having a Maya shaman as the officiant adds to the experience even more. The blowing of a conch shell sets the scene, while the mystical rumbling of the drums and the torches reflect the fiery passion you both have for each other. A traditional ritual turned sacred, this ceremony will for sure be the most thrilling one your guests have ever attended. The sounds of the flowing Maya King waterfall in the background punctuate what is already an exceptional moment in your life.
The Seafront Suite at Jaguar Reef Lodge
Head back to The Lodge at Jaguar Reef for the best party on the beach Hopkins will always remember. You’ve already exchanged vows at your waterfall wedding, now exchange cocktails with your partner at the resort bar as you reflect on an absolutely perfect day in Belize.
Cheers to happily ever after. Image courtesy The Lodge at Jaguar Reef
Header image courtesy Leonardo Melendez Photography at Butterfly Falls
