The Tribune

By FAY SIMMONS

Tribune Business Reporter

jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

The Bahamas Bridal Association’s (BBA) president yesterday said the jurisdiction remains among the world’s top ten destinations for celebrating romantic milestones with Valentine’s Day just hours away.

Leslie Pinder, speaking to Tribune Business, said The Bahamas continues to attract visitors celebrating special occasions including couples seeking engagement, wedding and anniversary experiences. 

“We’re still probably among the top ten countries with a large influx of visitors coming here for celebratory and milestone events,” said Ms Pinder.

“It isn’t just weddings. Although the Bahamas promotes romance, we have clients that also come for birthdays or anniversary events. Every week, people reach out about engagements - they want to propose on the beach or in significant areas; at some of our most iconic places of interest.”

Ms Pinder said BBA members aim to make co-ordinating such events seamless for clients, partnering with Bahamian vendors to deliver a comprehensive, one-stop service.

“With engagements, for example - the ‘Marry Me’ signs, the marquee letters - things like that. Even when those vendors aren’t members of the BBA, as BBA members, when clients come to us, we still work with external vendors to help with the set-up,” said Ms Pinder

“We don’t want clients running all over the place. We’re designed to cover all your needs. You make one call to me, I handle everything, and you get one bill.”

The Ministry of Tourism announced yesterday that Love Week, to be observed from February 8–14, will be marked through a partnership with the Bahamas Bridal Association, reinforcing The Bahamas’ position as a leading global romance destination.

Ms Pinder said the event will provide an opportunity to build connections with international professionals and strengthen partnerships that support successful events across the islands.

“It’s a way to network with international professionals so you can collaborate - whether they’re hosting an event or working with clients who want to hold events in the Bahamas. As the BBA, we can lend support, collaborate and help ensure the success of those events.”

Latia Duncombe, the Ministry of Tourism's director-general, said the range of experiences across The Bahamas makes it stand out as a top global romance destination.

“The Bahamas is a destination for a lifetime of love.  Across our islands, couples can celebrate every chapter of their journey - from first escapes and engagements to weddings, honeymoons and milestone anniversaries,” said Mrs Duncombe.

“This depth of experience continues to set The Bahamas apart as a leading romance destination.”

The Ministry of Tourism will also host the From the Bahamas with Love conference from February 26 to March 2, and will bring 50 international wedding professionals to experience The Bahamas first-hand. 

Participants will visit six islands and take part in activities that showcase the destination’s culture and offerings. The conference also includes a symposium and mini-marketplace to connect international planners with Bahamian romance professionals, strengthening long-term partnerships and positioning The Bahamas as a leading romance and wedding destination.