Our on-property wedding planner is available to assist with all details of your wedding. To help you with your planning we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions.
What is required by the U.S. Virgin Islands for a legal wedding ceremony?
There are no residence or citizenship requirements. There are two forms that must be completed and returned to the territorial court and posted at least 8 days prior to the wedding date. The couple must personally appear at the courthouse to pick up their license. As a U.S. territory, weddings are legal and binding the same as if married in the continental United States.
What do I need to know before contacting the hotel?
You should know the estimated number of guests, a date, and an approximate budget for your event. If possible, choose a few alternate dates in case your first choice is not available.
How far in advance should I reserve the date?
Contact the hotel for information about available dates.
What is the average cost per person for food and beverage for my wedding at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas?
Based on our current banquet menus, you may expect to spend on average, $120 to $150 per person for lunch and $200 to $250 per person for dinner, both of which are exclusive of service charge. This may include hors d’oeuvres for your cocktail reception, wedding cake, wine service, champagne toast and a hosted bar for your event. Please be aware that our menu items and pricing are subject to change and are guaranteed 90 days in advance. Your final menu pricing will be based on your actual selections.
What are the deposits based on and when are they due?
Deposits are based on 25% of the combined food and beverage minimum plus the rental fees for the event space reserved. Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. 100% of the estimated charges are due sixty days prior to your event.
When do I need to tell The Ritz-Carlton exactly how many guests will be attending my wedding?
The catering department must be notified of the exact number of guests attending a function at least 72 working hours prior to the start of the event. This will be considered a guarantee, for which you will be charged, even if fewer guests attend the function.
Are there any special room rates for wedding guests?
For family and friends of the wedding party, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas will be happy to quote preferential rates for the week of the event if the wedding party is able to guarantee ten rooms per night for a minimum three night stay.
What local laws affect events at The Ritz-Carlton?
There is a 10 p.m. outdoor entertainment curfew.
What weather should I expect at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas?
Year round the island of St. Thomas offers temperatures not greater than 90 degrees and not less than 70 degrees with pleasant trade winds.
What does The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas provide for weddings and receptions?
The Ritz-Carlton provides all food and beverages, tables and chairs, white table linens, silverware and glasses, and staging for your event. The rental of a ceremony location includes chair set-up and staging as well as rehearsal time for the ceremony. This also includes an on-site Wedding Concierge to greet and assist your guests.
What other services or items can The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas provide for my event?
The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas can provide a wide range of specialty items to help you personalize your event, such as chiavari chairs, specialty linens, specialty plates and floral centerpieces. We can also assist you with welcome baskets, bridesmaid and groomsmen gifts and a variety of other special amenities to help add that personal touch to your wedding. Costs for all items vary.
How do I arrange for flowers?
The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas has an excellent vendor who provides a range of seasonal arrangements, centerpieces, bouquets, headdresses, corsages, and button-holes.
May I take wedding pictures at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas if my wedding is to be held elsewhere?
We reserve photography privileges for couples whose weddings or receptions are held at The Ritz-Carlton.
What kind of music is available?
Your personal wedding professional can help select the perfect musical accompaniment. Choices for your ceremony include a harpist, violinist, classical guitarist or steel pan player. Choices for your reception include steel drum bands, classical duos or quartets, jazz or reggae bands, or a DJ. Choices for your reception include three to eight piece bands or a DJ.
How do I choose the food for my reception?
Whether your reception is an intimate dinner or a lavish gathering, we offer a range of cuisines. From hors d’oeuvres and champagne cocktails to food stations and gourmet buffets or formal dinners with plated selections and synchronized service, all options are catered. Your event manager will assist you with choosing from our extensive menu.
I/my guests have special dietary needs; what are your options?
We are delighted to offer a selection of vegetarian, and vegan cuisines for any dietary need. Please consult with your wedding planner for more details.
Can the Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas provide my wedding cake?
Our pastry chef will ensure your new life together gets off to a sweet start. Choose from our imaginative wedding cakes and patisseries or customize your own creative temptations.
May I bring in an outside caterer?
All events at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas are catered by our exceptional culinary team.
May I use outside vendors?
You may use outside vendors for your music and flowers. A fee applies; contact your event manager for more details.
Are there any guidelines or requirements for using outside vendors?
Please see your event manager for specific details.
Do you have a list of preferred vendors?
Your event manager has preferred vendors that are used here at the Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas and will be happy to make any arrangements for your event.