Dearest Reader,

This writer finds herself compelled to address a certain wedding trend that has prominently taken over the international stage. It is upon us! Lady Whistledown has returned and the emerging trends of Regency-core weddings, inspired by Season 2 of the popular Netflix original series Bridgerton has made its way onto the wedding scene.

Rumour has it the “ton” has become such a pop culture influence that it has to be brought to the attention of the readers.

Do not fear, as this writer will most certainly provide thorough information about this season’s finer details. The question of the season is: Can the regal trends be debuted on a tropical island, dare I say Jamaica? We all must make haste to see how it can all unfold.

Yours truly,

Shikima

Let us answer the question, can a Regency-era wedding be properly executed in Jamaica? I say YES! The rich history and diversity of our island are some of the things that make it one of the world’s foremost wedding destinations.

With restrictions on ceremonies and receptions now fully lifted, many couples are taking the opportunity to transform their nuptials into a regal occasion. We’re not just talking empire-waist attired and elaborate florals. The growing fascination with the era will quite slowly but inevitably infiltrate its way locally into many areas of a wedding, in many forms from vintage china to pastel colour schemes.

Here’s how to pull off a Bridgerton themed wedding in Jamaica.

The venue — gardens & ballrooms

The ultimate way to feel like you’ve stepped into a scene from Bridgerton is to choose a Regency-era wedding venue.

Whether a ballroom location with traditional fixtures or a garden-style reception, there are lots of great locations across the island perfect for this. Think: Good Hope Estate, the gardens of Prospect Plantation Great House, the regal staircase of the Rose Hall Great House, the mansion at Devon House or the lush Hope Botanical Gardens. Many hotels have grand and regal ballrooms and indoor spaces to choose from to create a whimsical, elegant atmosphere like the Ballroom Terrace of the Hyatt Resort, the interior of the Trident Castle, and the conference centre at Sandals Montego Bay.

Wedding fashion

When the first season of Bridgerton aired, the romantic fashion had turned the entire world on to regency-inspired bridal clothing. With the release of Season 2 and summer wedding season around the corner, I’ve seen bridal attire taking hints with a wave of square necks, puffy sleeves, intricate florals, and romantic silhouettes taking the lead. I know the average couple will not dress like Daphne and Kate, but will certainly showcase some similar attire elements. I also know I’m not the only one who swooned over the diamond tiaras and headpieces in the show.

Flowers & décor

It’s also worth pointing out that huge amounts of flowers were everywhere during the show, especially during the events and weddings. If you would like to recreate this theme, don’t be afraid to go over-the-top with your floral arrangements, but for an elegant-yet-understated look keep them delicate and pastel in a colour palette.

Creating a statement tablespace with florals and greenery, taper candles, gold-rimmed chargers, cut crystal stemware, and refined linen will accurately capture the Regency period-inspired décor.

Live music

This is something I love for weddings, which isn’t as popular as it once was (I’ll talk more about that next week) but what better way to add a classic and romantic touch to the ambience?

It is certainly one of the things that stood out to me while watching the show. Did anyone else notice the modern twist on more classical music — I know I heard Material Girl by Madonna and Diamonds by Rihanna, to name a few.

Why not take inspiration from the show and pick a musical accompaniment that can put a modern twist on the classics?

The music of a string quartet will help set the Regency tone, and you can ask them to cover modern songs, the way it was done in the show. Your guests will be pleasantly surprised when they notice their favourite reggae or pop songs being performed so beautifully.

You are cordially invited — Calligraphy and stationery

There was no WhatsApp or e-mail in the Regency period, so embrace the long-forgotten art of calligraphy.

The design of your wedding stationery could incorporate colourful paper with gold leafing and deckled edges, embossing, a custom wax crest, and menu cards to complement the invitation suite.

You could also hire a calligrapher like expert Brooke of B Design House to create some stunning handwritten pieces to bring the Bridgerton-inspired storytelling to life.

Whether you opt for the handwritten elements or not, you can also incorporate wax seals into your wedding. It’s the perfect way to seal your invitations as décor on place cards, or attach stems of dried flowers to your stationery.