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(509) 2812-7500 1(800) 503-9801 www.servotelhaiti.com info@servotelhaiti.com
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Your ideal intimate Wedding Venue HaitiOpen.com | Fall 2017
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The celebration of a Lifetime
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Luxury Wedding Venues Available Photo by Amely Pierre
Kinam Hotel, Pétion-Ville
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Extended Honeymoons Happen when in Haiti Le Plaza Hotel, Port-au-Prince
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Propose in Haiti Photo by Verdy Verna
Kaliko Beach Club, Côte des Arcadins
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CONTENTS| FALL 2017
Jonise & Milien
Jonise & Milien March 25, 2017 Royal Decameron Photo by Tony Barreau
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CONTENTS| FALL 2017 66
93
85
31
Why Haiti | 28
10 Real Haiti Weddings | 62
Directory | 94
Why You Should Say “I DO” in Haiti Checklist for a Haiti Wedding
Josise & Milien Sobrina & Ricky Dorothy & Dadley Lily & Darnel Carene & Josima Jeanne & Fred Caroline & Charles Lucile & Pierrot Ann-Sophie & Jean-Luc Medjine & Stephan
Venues Planners Décor Photographers Bakers & Chefs DJ's & Twoubadou
Wedding Vendors | 34 Angie Manuau (planner) Jaelle JL Josecite (planner) Myrlande Affriany (planner) Christelle G. Octavius (planner) Alain Lemaire (chef) Tanya Lemaire (baker) Jean-Ralph Thurin (gowns) Edward Monereau (photographer) Joshua Dwain (photographer) Verdy Verna (photographer) Johny Luc (photographer)
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Honeymoon Hotels | 88 Royal Decameron Moulin Sur Mer Le Plaza Hotel
TALK TO US mytrip@haitiopen.com
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JEAN ALFRED DELVA Founder, Publisher, and Editor-in-Chief @alfred_haitiopen, JeanDelva.com, 305-842-3555 Cover Photo DOROTHY & DADLEY July 26, 2017 Pétion-Ville, Haiti Hôtel Villa Thérèse Photo by EDWARD MONEREAU @edward_jb MENDES CHEVALIER Graphic Designer @mendes_1812, 786-267-0108 Proofreader ALEC ROSS Layout MOHAMMAD "MA" ALAUDIN Photographers: VERDY VERNA AMELY PIERRE JOHNY LUC HUGUE-ROBERT MARSAN TRENE FORBES JOSHUA DWAIN EDWARD MONEREAU TONY BARREAU Wedding Décor: ANGIE MANUAU JAELLE JL JOSECITE MYRLANDE AFFRIANY Writers: ISABELLE VASQUEZ SHELLY-ANN M. PARKINSON MEGAN COLLIER Haiti Representative: PETERSON AGERNORD, Port-au-Prince +509-3488-2714
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Make Your Bachelorette Party HAITI EPIC!!! Photo by Verdy Verna
Anse à Pirogue, Haiti
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WHY YOU SHOULD SAY “I DO” IN HAITI By Shelly-Ann M. Parkinson & Megan Collier
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ach year, more and more brides and grooms are finding that with the combination of budget-friendly costs and the true Caribbean feel that Haiti is able to provide, they have found no better place to celebrate their big day. From the pristine white sandy beaches to the breathtaking mountains that surround them, Haiti is full of magical and awe striking magnificence that seems to continuously be expanding throughout the country.
LOCATION AND CLIMATE
Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, on the island of Hispaniola, Haiti’s year round tropical, semi-arid climate is perfect for your island nuptials, making it a destination that not only you and your soon-to-be partner for life will enjoy but that all of your friends and families will enjoy as well. With the average temperature falling between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and pleasant balmy breezes, warm wedding memories are certain to be made.
ACCESSIBILITY
Flying from South Florida on several major airlines, you can expect to land in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, in less than 3 hours. Haiti is also easily accessible from most major U.S. cities with direct and connecting flights. Feel free to invite those cousins in other Caribbean islands, Canada, and in France as
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well, as they too can enjoy non-stop flights to Haiti.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY
Planning a destination wedding does not have to break the bank. Haitian wedding planners such as Angie Manuau of Konfetti Décor, Jaelle JL Josecite of Ayiti Deco Mariage, and Myrlande Affriany of Kaliko Beach Club can craft the wedding of your dreams to suit your budget. Hiring a reputable wedding planner does not only take the stress out of planning this major event, but also keep you on track with your set budget.
VENUE CHOICES
Of course, one of the major decisions to make is your wedding venue. The nation’s capital, Portau-Prince, and its most vibrant city, Pétion-Ville, offer a wide variety of hotel venues such as Karibe, Kinam, Le Plaza, Villa Therese, and Servotel, amongst so many others (listed on haitiopen.com/hotels). However, your dream of a Caribbean wedding always featured the tapestry of glistening azure waters. Haiti will not disappoint you and promises to make your dreams come true with beachside resorts such as the Royal Decameron, Kaliko Beach Club, and Moulin Sur Mer at La Côte des Arcadins, and Colin’s Hotel in Jacmel.
RICH HISTORY AND CULTURE Saying your vows in the First Black Republic in the Western
Hemisphere is a powerful statement within itself. Building your foundation on soil rich with the blood of liberators and an undaunted people is a source of strength. With the contributions of African and European influences, Haiti’s wealth is in its people and culture. Hypnotic rhythms, vibrant art, and complex culinary cuisines all form a back drop for a one of a kind wedding experience. Clearly, Haiti is not only home to some magnificent hotels and picture-perfect scenes but is full of rich culture. Those couples that do choose to get married in Haiti in the upcoming years will be able to experience a true destination wedding that not many before them can say they have done. With the growing popularity and news spreading about what lies ahead for destination wedding plans in Haiti, it will be no surprise to find that a rise in weddings will increase year by year and that more couples may just realize they’ve found their new favorite Caribbean spot.
YOU MAY JUST NEVER WANT TO LEAVE
With so much to do and see in the beautiful lands throughout Haiti, it’s possible to spend an extended honeymoon for days or weeks after the actual wedding day. Either relax beachside or head out on the many day trips and tours that are available in nearly every hotel and resort, all ready
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Ann-Sophie & Jean-Luc July 15, 2017 Location: Paillant, Miragaone Photographer: Verdy Verna
Haiti is not only home to some magnificent hotels and picture-perfect scenes but is full of rich culture. to give you the thrill and adventure of a lifetime. From the teeming waters just off the shores to the incredible mountains all ready to be explore, Haiti is one place where a destination wedding is far from ordinary.
CHERISHED MEMORIES THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME
No matter where you decide to exchange vows in Haiti or what you decide to do before and after the big day, it is sure to be an event to remember for a lifetime and one that you and your loved ones will cherish for years to come. So, get to planning that wedding that you have always wanted and before you know
it, you and your guests will be the ones dancing until the wee hours of the morning and trying to remember why you ever doubted the amount of pure joy that could come from an incredible destination wedding in beautiful Haiti. For U.S. Citizens planning to get married in Haiti, the U.S. Embassy in Haiti advises that the couple visit the civil registrar in Haiti at least 15 days prior to the wedding to apply for a marriage license. They must show proof of identity and a list of at least 2 witnesses. There are additional requirements such as a blood test and a four to
five day waiting period, but these can be waived. If either party was previously married, a certified copy of the divorce decree or a death certificate would also be required. The couple may then purchase an “Acte de Mariage” and is advised to have it authenticated by the Officer d’Etat Civil before returning to the United States.
NOTE:
List of wedding venues and vendors and all things Haiti weddings available via www.haitiopen.com/ weddings
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Haiti Destination Wedding Checklist ENGAGE
r Announce your engagement r Discuss wedding expenses and set a budget r Pick a date r Start looking for a venue (page 94-95) r Select an on-site wedding planner (page 94-95)
12+
MONTHS BEFORE
r Choose your bridal party if you’re having one r Develop your guest list or decide on an elopement r Decide on the style and formality of your wedding r Contract a location and venue. Schedule a site visit if possible (page 94-95) r Research marriage requirements in your location (haitiopen.com/weddings) r Contract a photographer and videographer (page 94-95) r Start wedding dress shopping r Order your save the dates r Send out save the dates
9-11
MONTHS BEFORE
r Work with your location to find a caterer and hash out a menu (page 94-95) r Register for gifts and add your registries to your wedding website r Ask your bridesmaids and groomsmen to be in your wedding party HaitiOpen.com | Fall 2017
Karibe Hotel, Photo by @hrmarsanweddings
6-8 MONTHS BEFORE
r Take engagement photos (page 94-95) r Shop for bridesmaid dresses r Select and purchase a wedding dress r Select an officiant r Select and book a florist r Select musicians or a DJ (page 94-95) r Begin researching honeymoon locations (HAITIOPEN.COM/WEDDINGS) r Set aside a block of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests (HAITIOPEN.COM/HOTELS)
4-5 MONTHS BEFORE
r Book airfare for your wedding and encourage guests to book theirs as well r Choose formal wear for the groom and groomsmen r Book the honeymoon (HAITIOPEN.COM/HOTELS) r Do a cake or dessert tasting and choose a dessert (page 94-95) r Choose and order invitations and other paper goods r Book any necessary rentals (HAITIOPEN.COM/WEDDINGS)
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2 WEEKS BEFORE
r Confirm flight and hotel bookings (HAITIOPEN.COM/HOTELS) r Double-check details with all vendors and finalize the number of guests with your caterer (page 94-95) r Create a seating chart and place cards r Pick up your wedding dress
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WEEK BEFORE
r Pack for the wedding r Pack for the honeymoon r Prepare day of payments and tips r Travel to your destination
WHEN YOU ARRIVE Karibe Hotel, Photo by @hrmarsanweddings
2-3 MONTHS BEFORE
r Mail wedding invitations r Begin wedding dress alterations r Purchase bridal accessories like veils, shoes and jewelry r Finalize details with all vendors and get everything in writing r Finalize readings, music and details for ceremony r Purchase reception decorations and details (page 94-95) r Purchase gifts for wedding party r Select wedding bands (page 94-95) r Book the rehearsal dinner (HAITIOPEN.COM/HOTELS)
6-7
WEEKS BEFORE
r Do a walk-through of your ceremony and reception site r Apply for a marriage license r Have trial appointments for hair and makeup r Have your wedding dress steamed to remove any wrinkles from traveling
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DAY BEFORE
r Book a manicure and pedicure r Hold your rehearsal dinner (HAITIOPEN.COM/HOTELS) r Visit with family r Relax
WEDDING DAY
r Take rings and marriage certificate to the ceremony site r Have your hair and makeup done r Say “I do” and celebrate!
r Make trial appointments for hair and makeup r Prepare welcome bags for guests r Schedule final dress fitting r Write personal vows and toasts r Celebrate bachelor and bachelorette parties (HAITIOPEN.COM/WEDDINGS)
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Weddings, Anniversaries, Corporate events, Private Dinners, Parties....
Be a guest at your event! Call us now: Miami | Bianka Stecher: +1 (305) 904 6660 / bistema@gmail.com HaitiOpen.com | Fall 2017 ÂŤ Haiti | Gaia Stecher: +509 4890 4090 / gaiastecher@gmail.com
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EXPERT INTERVIEW
Wedding Planner & Décor Angie Manuau from KonfettiDecor @konfettidecor Miss Angie, what made you want to be a wedding planner? To make an event flawless, it takes a network of suppliers, and that requires a delegate in the field who speaks the vendor’s language and understands what is needed on both sides. Having many clients from abroad who do not necessarily speak French or Creole, it became crucial for us to become event planners and avoid discontent.
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Customer satisfaction has always been a priority for us.
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Imagine it and we will create it
PASSION PLANNING
VISION
ELEGANCE
COORDINATION
DESIGN
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Your company, KONFETTIDECOR, also does decorations for various types of events. Which service you provide the most – wedding décor or planning? Mostly weddings, but KonfettiDecor provides decorations for all type of events. We follow the circle of life – basically from baby shower to baptism, to First Communion to birthday parties, weddings, etc. We also cover public events such as concerts, festivals, carnaval and such and corporate events. Besides decoration, we also provide LED lighting packages and special effects such as confetti, smoke, and fireworks.
How long have you been in business? We have been in the market since August 2005. How many wedding clients do you take on in a year? Approximately 30 to 35.
What do you love about planning or decorating a wedding in Haiti? The guests from abroad especially are usually surprised to see how Haiti is capable of pulling off an event at such a high standard. Setting an ambiance that is so carefree that the guests, including the couple, just won’t stop dancing and having fun. All of this makes it worth it, every time. For outdoor weddings, what contingency plan would you have for bad weather? For outdoor weddings, we either have an indoor space available as a backup plan in case it is needed. If not, we have tents set up.
Are couples required to book only the vendors you recommend, or do they have the freedom to hire someone you haven’t worked with before? It is best if the couple works with the vendors we suggest. Understand that we work with only the best, and we can only guarantee those who we know are experienced.
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What kind of planning and/or decorating do you offer? We handle everything. Your event becomes our event. We go deep into the details and cover every aspect. Everything matters to us – from the table numbers to the lighting, to the souvenirs to the cake-cutting set, to the accessories the bride will have in her hair. Everything counts.
How do you charge for your services? We charge a flat rate. It doesn’t matter what the client’s global budget is, our wedding planner fee remains the same. We also offer a day-ofwedding planner to those who need someone reliable on site on the day of the wedding to make sure everything flows the way they want it to.
How much of a deposit is required to book your services? When is the final payment due? We offer a free consultation to the couple and go over the details with them. We go over the process and contract. Once the client is ready to book, the only way to do so is by making a deposit of 50%. The balance can be paid in two installments. Final payment has to be issued before the wedding, preferably 10 to 15 days before. After a couple gives you their budget, will you provide them with a breakdown of how the money is going to be allocated? In order to set a budget, we collect price quotes from different vendors and choose the vendors together. Each bride is different, and may click better with one photographer over another, or prefer one bakery over the other. We update our Excel sheet with each vendor’s price for what is needed and come up with a global budget for the wedding. Once that is established, the couple and planner discuss how the payments will be made, and the planner pays each vendor based on their requirements. Some vendors require 30%, others 60%. Therefore, we keep track of all payments, receipts and move
forward until that balance is zero.
Do you handle rentals? Will you coordinate delivery, arrival and set-up times with the photographer, the florist, the musicians and the caterer/ banquet manager? Yes. Everything, including bar inventory, picking up guests at the airport, working on the playlist with the disc jockey, driving the bridal party to the ceremony to make sure we start on time, planning and directing the rehearsal with the bridal party before the wedding, and then some. We go the extra mile. What do you do when you’re not planning or decorating a couple’s big day? What’s an off day like for you? What is that? On an off day, we rest. We spend time with the family, read, and catch up on shows.
In closing, provide 5 or more tips for couples that wish to have the best possible wedding experience in Haiti. 1. Hire a planner, and start preparing / planning at least 10 months in advance. 2. Establish a budget and start making payments, even if the amount seems small. It makes a difference down the road, as it accumulates.
3. Avoid stressful friends or family members, especially those who tend to overstep while being judgmental.
4. Avoid having a big bridal party. There is no need to have 10 bridesmaids and 10 groomsmen, two maids of honor, two best men, two flower girls, one ring bearer, one princess, and two junior bridesmaids. 5. Do not have all of the bridesmaids get ready in the same room as the bride. This can only lead to stress, drama and mess.
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Kaltural Clothing Line
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ancy Dumay Alcindor: Dancer, Poet, Artist, born and raised in Haiti the first 16 years of her life. She came to the USA at such an early aged; yet, she kept her Haitian roots always. In Maryland, she was part of a folkloric dance group named LA FACTLa Formation Artistic Culturelle du Theatre Nancy Lakay. Also, Nancy spent 8 years teaching Haitian Folklore, Kreyol and Histoire D’Haiti to more than 35 American Haitians kids who were born and raised in the Washington D.C./ Maryland area. Nancy has always been a big advocate when it comes to Haiti
By Nancy Dumay Alcindor @kaltural.llc
and her culture. She showcases her creativity and heritage through the clothes that she wears; the jewelries she makes as well as her charisma. She decided to start her own company and since she wanted to promote her Haitian, Caribbean
Culture and her African Roots, to not only Haitians abroad but for others to get a chance to visit the Culture; Nancy named the company KALTURAL, pronounced Cultural. All of our beautifully crafted jewelries are handmade and designed by Nancy Alcindor. Nancy uses natural elements such as seeds, wooden beads, Hand carved Horns and ox bones and other natural materials to uniquely design and assemble all of Kaltural’s jewelries. Kaltural’s Clothing line; ”Essence of Culture” is unique and Exclusive to you. Each garment is hand painted; a piece of art that you will love and feel proud to wear.
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EXPERT INTERVIEW
Wedding Planner & Décor Jaelle JL Josecite from AyitiDecoMariage @ayiti_deco Miss Jaelle, what made you want to be a wedding planner? I have wanted to be a wedding planner since I was little, because my mom specialized in making wedding dresses in Guadeloupe, where I was born. That’s how I got into this business. During my many professional missions in Haiti – I used to work for an airline company – I met my husband and decided to stay in Haiti. But I didn’t think about founding my own company until a friend of mine, Cassandre, asked me to take care of her wedding. That’s how everything started. How long have you been in business? Four years. And we’re really proud of it.
How many wedding clients do you take on in a year? As we’re mainly specialized in the world of weddings, we can do a bit over twenty-five weddings per year. Some months of the year, like July,
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August or December, we’re booked for a year and a half in advance.
What do you love about planning or decorating a wedding in Haiti? What I love about planning and decorating weddings in Haiti is the fact Haiti has a different type of landscape. Whether it’s on the beach, in the countryside with its lush landscapes, in the mountains or in the beautiful hotels, frankly, we’re every bit as good as the other Caribbean countries. We have idyllic and breathtaking landscapes to make every wedding a unique one. Nothing is impossible in terms of creativity. One other thing I like about Haiti is the vendors. I work with the best vendor on the market. They are very professional, and together we make a great team. For outdoor weddings, what contingency plan would you have for bad weather?
When you talk about Haiti, you talk about sun, but also rain. Generally, for a wedding during the rainy season, we always pay close attention to weather reports. Depending on the forecast, we decide whether or not to have the wedding outside, and this is why we always advise the future bride and groom to have a venue that includes a place that is covered as well as one that’s outside. This allows them to have an option should it rain, and we’ve always got the option of having a tent. If there’s a hurricane, we manage each case individually, according to the alerts, and keep the future bride and groom updated on the situation. Sometimes we postpone the date. Describe the most challenging wedding you planned and/ or decorated in Haiti and how you handled the problems that came up. Wow... the most challenging wedding was the one we did for a
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family of three sisters and a brother who all wanted to get married on the same day. There were 180 guests at the reception and 260 at the ceremony. They got in touch with us a year and a half before their weddings. One thing that was hard to manage was the guests at the reception. Not everyone who was present at the wedding ceremony was invited to the reception. So you can imagine how hard that was! And since the wedding was in the same venue as the reception, this was difficult. But thanks to our knowhow, we were able to respect the timing and have the reception on time with the 180 guests who were invited. It was a moving wedding, and everyone had a great time! What kind of planning and/or decorating do you offer? The services we propose are: Planning:
- A-to-Z wedding organization - Wedding-day coordination - Secular ceremonies - Wedding’s anniversary Decoration and Events: - Decorations - Special effects - Lighting - Fireworks
Do you offer different package options, or is everything customized based on what couples are looking for? When future couples contact us, they often are looking for ready-towear packages, but some of them like packages they can customize. So, depending on what they want, we adapt.
How much of a deposit is required to book your services? When is the final payment due? We ask for a 30% deposit.
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Depending on when the wedding will take place, you can pay in several installments. The final payment takes place three weeks before the event. We accept payments via PayPal (with expenses) as well as wire transfers via Cam Transfer and Unitransfer.
In case of an emergency that prevents you from being at a couples’ wedding, who will be the backup planner? What are their qualifications? I’m not alone in running the agency. We are a whole team working on the organization or decoration of our bride and groom. My team is experienced and professional, so there is really nothing to worry about in case of an emergency. They all know what to do and how to do it. Once a couple books with you,
Wedding Planner & Wedding designer Lighting . FX . Fireworks
Impecable Planning . Creative Design . Expert Coordination
LETS US HELP YOU TO MAKE YOUR DREAM TRULY MEMORABLE ! Jaelle JEAN-LOUIS JOSECITE . CERTIFIED WEDDING PLANNER & DESIGNER . WWW.AYITIDECOMARIAGE .COM . CONTACT@AYITIDECOMARIAGE.COM . + (509) 3121-6073 on Facebook : @ayitideco
on Instagram : ayiti_deco
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how quickly can they expect to receive a contract? They can receive the contract within 48 hours.
What do you do differently than other décor companies in Haiti? The ceremony is seen differently in our company, as it’s a symbolic moment for the bride and groom and the first place they’ll discover.
We always strive to do something different and memorable in wedding ceremonies.
As per your experience, what’s the wedding industry in Haiti like? You have to know that for us Haitians, weddings are very important in our culture. However, in Haiti, when you work in this field, it can be difficult. Many people don’t understand the roles that a wedding planner or decorator play. Some people think just anyone can do it. But because of the internet, future brides and grooms in Haiti and the Haitian diaspora abroad are very demanding and want true professionals to organize for their wedding experiences.
Tell me about the pros, the cons and how the industry can be improved so couples around the world will start considering Haiti as a wedding destination. To position Haiti as a wedding destination, you have to start by positioning it in this market using promotional campaigns. However, before a campaign, you have to do a market study and a survey to know the market in other countries, and manage it. You have to know how many weddings take place per year in Haiti, the types of clients, their origins, how many venues there are in Haiti, how many Wedding Planners there are, etc. A close collaboration between professionals in this field must be set up with the concerned venues to succeed in this mission. The presence of Haiti at specialized wedding trade fairs should increase Haiti’s profile as a “Wedding Destination”.
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What do you do when you’re not planning or decorating a couple’s big day? What’s an off day like for you? Ha! I don’t think wedding planners ever take a day off. We’re always glued to our phones to answer messages and queries. But when I’ve got a minute for myself... I reserve it for my family and spiritual activities. I also like watching television, especially my favorite show, “Four Weddings for One Honeymoon” on the French M6 channel. When I’ve got a week off, I do local tourism. In closing, provide 5 or more tips for couples that wish to
have the best possible wedding experience in Haiti: 1. Decide on your budget. 2. Contact your wedding planner at least 14 months before your wedding date to be able to pay in installments. 3. Work only with well-known professionals. Don’t hesitate to look at their internet sites and their Facebook and Instagram pages. (Be careful though – some people claim work done by other decorators as their own.) 4. Have the wedding that you want, and not the one your parents or your friends want. 5. Choose Haiti for your wedding!
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MIMI’s BOUTIQ 6TH ANNUAL FASHION SHOW COMING SOON @mimisboutiq
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Left_Mimi, Riht_Isabelle
imi’s BoutiQ was founded by Merline Thermora surnamed Mimi. Though still in her early thirties, Mimi has taken a great step in following her dreams of being a business owner. She is currently pursuing a degree in Fashion Merchandising. The Boutique and her shows was certainly not her first rodeo. Mimi has also founded “For the Women By the Women” book club, where young women gather to not only discuss the book of the month but also open their minds to worldly knowledge. Moreover she is part of the Boukan team. A cultural event founded by Angie Bell showcasing talents of Haiti but also welcomes anyone with a talent who would like to showcase it to the world. She also started putting together a women’s brunch for women’s month to encourage women to come together and appreciate each other For 5 years now, she’s been doing a beautiful job at bringing the fashion world to our community. Mimi believes that our community has a lot of great designs that deserves the exposure and her show does that. For the past 2 years, Mimi joined forces with Isabelle Laurent; another great, empowered woman in our community to make the work of planning the shows much bigger and better. These two have managed to shake our community together. Mimi’s style can be defined as past meets present with a dash of class “If it looks good and it’s comfortable and classy I’ll wear it” having a penchant for the vintage look of the 1960’s accessorizing it the right way can make any look adapt to the present translated as chic and elegant definitely fit for the runway HaitiOpen.com | Fall 2017
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EXPERT INTERVIEW
Wedding Planner & Décor Myrlande Affriany for Kaliko Beach Club @kalikobeachclub
Myrlande, which service you provide the most? Wedding decor or planning? I would say both equally, because as the decorator I find that I spend a lot of time assisting a bride in choosing flowers. This usually leads to planning.
How long have you been in business? And how many weddings have you done in Haiti? It started out as a hobby over 15 years ago, then I realized how passionate I was about every aspect of putting together all the elements of a successful event. I decided to take it full circle nine years ago. So far, I’ve done seven weddings on a professional level and over 10 as a hobbyist. What do you love about planning or decorating a wedding in Haiti? Haiti offers a natural backdrop for a beautiful wedding anywhere you go. I’m able to use the natural resources we have in Haiti to create a stunning wedding.
You’re in charge of helping with weddings at Kaliko Beach Club. Yes. There is a banquet team, and when a couple requests my services, I try to make myself available. What are the benefits of having Kaliko as a wedding venue in Haiti? We have everything on hand, and the beach offers the most beautiful
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customized based on what couples are looking for? We offer four packages at Kaliko, and also customized events. How do you charge for your services? Hourly for event planning. Decorating is a fee based on the type of décor and flowers that the customer wants.
sunset as a backdrop for memorable pictures. Several locations on the property can be converted, for a fairytale event to the most exotic wedding. The food and the wedding party can be prepared and get ready on site. I would say the benefits are almost endless.
For outdoor weddings at Kaliko, what contingency plan would you have for bad weather? We have 2 large ballrooms. One can accommodate up to 150, the other up to 400 guests. What kind of planning and/or decorating do you offer? Wedding planning, communions, special birthdays, and engagements – you name it. Do you offer different package options, or is everything
Do you handle rentals? How much of a deposit is required to book your services? When is the final payment due? At Kaliko, we are very well equipped. We don’t have a need to rent a lot of items. We ask for 60% upon signing the contract, and the balance 60 days before the event date. In your experience, what’s the wedding industry in Haiti like? I find more people should become aware that Haiti could be a perfect location for a destination wedding; for now, I believe that is lacking. What do you do when you’re not planning or decorating a couple’s big day? What’s an off day like for you? I love researching new ideas about decorating & architecture, and working at Kaliko as their interior decorator. I work at my clinic in Jacmel, providing medical care to the less fortunate, or go to various rural areas in Haiti to provide medical care to malnourished children.
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Kaliko Beach Club has several locations on the property that can be converted, for a fairytale event to the most exotic wedding.
Kaliko Beach Club - photo by Fefotom
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EXPERT INTERVIEW
Wedding Planner Christelle G. Octavius from Circ’O Events Planning @circoevents Miss Christelle, what made you start planning weddings for couples? Since I was a little girl growing up in Haiti, planning our family events always gave me the best moments, ones I gladly remember. How long have you been in business? How many weddings you have done in Haiti? We’ve been doing business for 7 years now as Circ’O Events Planning LLC. We have planned 3 full weddings in Haiti and helped with 2. What kind of planning do you offer? And do you offer customized packages based on what couples are looking for? We do full planning, day-of coordination, and offer a la carte services. And yes, everything is customized based on what our couples are looking for. How do you charge for your services? We have a flat rate for full planning, but we’re always open to working with our clients. Much can be done by opening a dialog. In case of an emergency that prevents you from being at a couples’ wedding, who will be the backup planner? What are HaitiOpen.com | Fall 2017
I believe that if every wedding vendor promotes Haiti in the right way, in the next five years Haiti will be one of the top 10 destination wedding locations in the Caribbean. their qualifications? In our company, besides the Head Planner, we have our Décor specialist and a Public Relations staff that can render continuous company service in case of in emergency. We also network with local and professional planners abroad who are well-qualified to take over, even in the final hours. What do you do when you’re not planning or decorating a couple’s big day? What’s an off day like for you? Do I have a off day? Hmm! I would say reading. Doing more research about my craft. I’m really not an outgoing person, so I’m usually on my phone catching up on web seminars about the industry.
In closing, provide 5 tips or more tips for couples that wish to have the best possible wedding experience in Haiti: 1. Hire a professional planner who knows the territory. 2. Start planning a year ahead. 3. EVery family have a "planner" now-a-days. Lol! I advise you to choose wisely who you would want to get involved. 4. Take 1 or 2 trips before the wedding. 5. Enjoy your special moments in our beautiful Haiti. Contact details: www.circoevents.com 954-708-7878
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Expert Interview: Chef
Alain Lemaire from Arôme Catering @cheflemaire
Why did you become a chef? Because, first of all, I love cooking. I also love food, and I love serving people. Why did you start catering for weddings? I enjoy catering for weddings because each one is different. The setup, the colors, the food and even the service are different.
Nothing beats the ingredients in Haiti because of the flavors. How long have you been in business? And how many weddings have you catered for in Haiti? We have been in the wedding business for over 10 years, but more steadily over the last 5 years. We’ve catered just over 10 weddings in Haiti at hotels, the beach, and other venues. What do you love about catering for weddings in Haiti? I love the nature aspect of it. There are some amazing sites, and we are able to use locally grown products.
Do you offer event packages, or is everything à la carte? What exactly do your packages include? We offer both. Our packages
left - Alain - right - Tony
include hors d’oeuvres, dinner, service staff, and service ware. Other items such as beverages, tables, etc. are available as add-ons. How does the cost-per-person of a buffet compare to that of a sit-down dinner? The cost for a buffet is usually lower than the cost of a plated service if the menu items are not high-end. A sit-down dinner service requires more service staff and more equipment to get hot food to the guests in a timely manner.
Do you provide alcoholic beverages and bartenders? Can you accommodate specialty cocktails? Yes, we can provide a beverage service with bartenders. And yes, our bartenders can create custom cocktails. When will couples need to finalize their menu? And what
is the latest date by which couples must give you a final guaranteed guest count? The menu can be finalized 10 days before the wedding. We give couples up to 15 days before the wedding to make final arrangements. We want to make sure we have everything settled with all our suppliers to avoid any hiccups. How much of a deposit is required to hold a couple’s date? When is the final payment due? Deposits vary based on time span between the date on the contract and the date of the wedding. The minimum is 35%. The final payment is due 15 days before the wedding. Contact details: Owners: Alain Lemaire and Tony Desmornes Email: aromecateringservices@gmail.com Tel: +509-3702-6207 / +509-4249-8411
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EXPERT INTERVIEW: BAKER Tanya Lemaire from Piece of Cake @poc_haiti
MISS TANYA, HOW DID YOU GET STARTED DOING WEDDING CAKES?
Since my mom had a bakery, our summers were spent in her shop! What started as a chore quickly turned into my passion! While attending Johnson and Wales University, I was also a full-time cake decorator at Publix, which helped me perfect my craft! fillings do you offer? I don’t consider that I have a specialty, because I work very well with both fondant and buttercream! I offer Vanilla (Regular Haitian Cake), Orange, Chocolate, Marble, Carrot and Red Velvet. Here in Haiti we are not too big on fillings, so I offer Guava, Prune, Chocolate Ganache, Strawberry, Cherry, Whisky Icing, lastly Dulce de Leche.
Can you design a custom cake to match a couple’s theme, dress or color scheme, or do they select from set designs? Yes, but I get those type of requests, mostly from my overseas customers for their destination weddings! Do you have cake tastings? Is there a charge? Once you give me the first deposit, you are entitled to a free cake tasting. What I do is I prepare cupcakes with the flavors and filling chosen, and my future bride picks them up at her convenience.
How do you price your cakes? I price my cakes based on the amount of work I put in, the type of flowers used, and the finishing of the cake! The choice of flavors doesn’t affect the final price at all.
I started baking when I was 15. How long have you been in business? My mom had her bakery for almost 20 years up until January 12, 2010 when we lost our building and equipment during the earthquake. In 2011, my mom asked me to venture out on my own while she worked on rebuilding the family bakery. Thus, Piece of Cake was created in my home kitchen, six years ago.
How many wedding cakes have you made in Haiti? Oh my! If I were to put a number to it, I’d say between 1500-2500 wedding cakes. What are your specialties? And what flavors and
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What are the fees for delivery and setup of the cake? Do you decorate the cake table, too? My fees for delivery depend on how far I have to drive! The setup fee is included in the price of the cake. Depending on the wedding planner my future bride is working with, I offer to decorate the cake table! How far in advance should couples order their cakes? How much is the deposit, and when is it due? And when is the final payment due? For overseas orders, I ask them to order 2 months prior. For my local customers, I ask for 1 month. A 50-60% deposit is required two months before the wedding, and final payment has to be made 2 weeks prior to the wedding. Contact details: pochaiti@gmail.com 509 3412 2253
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JEAN-RALPH THURIN
VISIONARY DRESS DESIGNER By Jean Alfred Delva
You graduated from the prestigious Parsons School of Design, currently the #1 ranked school in the US for art and design. What was your experience in that demanding environment? I believe you get out what you put in! It was competitive and very exciting, so I had the drive to always do my best – and it paid off.
vision come to life, one fitting after the next. We truly came together to create something magical for her big day. After Shaq’s wedding, many women began inquiring about her style of dress... hence the HUExJRT collection.
What fabrics and embellishments feature in the HUExJRT collection? The HUExJRT Collection is all primarily made of raised threaded embroidery and stretch silk nude undertones to match a wider variety of brides.
Don’t sacrifice the vision of your dream dress. After graduating, why do you choose the bridal industry? What inspired you to design wedding dresses? As far back as I can remember, I always wanted to design beautiful dresses. Growing up, I learned to sew by watching my grandmother and then received formal training at Parsons School of Design. In school, I became enthralled by the fashion history of the top haute couture Houses of Dior, Givenchy and Chanel, so my love for couture evolved into making custom wedding gowns detailed to tell each bride’s unique story. Would you travel, let’s say to Haiti, to help a bride? I definitely would! I actually just came back from my wife’s brother’s
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Can you provide a retail price guide for your bridal wear? Our custom bridal gowns start at $3,500 USD.
wedding in Haiti. I made his wife’s gown, as well as the bridal party dresses. It was great being back home on the beautiful island!
What was the inspiration behind your latest collection, HUExJRT? Our beautiful past #JRTBride Shaq Robotham truly influenced the HUExJRT collection. She came in knowing exactly what she wanted – a beautiful mermaid gown with cross-hatch lace and a nude underlay to give her that perfect see-through effect. Working with her on her custom dress was one of the best experiences I have ever had as a designer. I loved seeing her
In terms of the Jean-Ralph Thurin Haute Couture line, what are your plans for the future? I really just want to continue pushing myself as a designer to make new and innovative collections that will reach a larger demographics of brides. I will let you in on a little teaser of what is to come… I foresee a possible runway show in the near future! When you’re not designing, how do you like to spend your free time? I am the biggest movie bingewatcher! I cannot get enough of James Bond or Marvel superhero films. I also am definitely a foodie. If there are any good restaurants around, sign me up!
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EXPERT INTERVIEW
Wedding Photographer Edward Monereau @edward_jb
Edward, how did you get started in wedding photography? And what do you love most about photographing weddings? My first wedding contract was from a friend in 2014. For me, the happiness, the emotion, even the fear sometimes, and the people’s facial expressions are the most beautiful things about photographing a wedding. How many weddings have you done in Haiti? And what do you love about shooting a wedding in Haiti? In Haiti I have shot 5 weddings. I love the locations, especially when the wedding is out of the city in the countryside.
How would you describe your photographic style (e.g. traditional, photojournalistic, creative)? I would describe my photography as creative. Can couples give you a list of specific shots they would like? Yes, couples can always give me a list of specific shots. Do you include engagement photos in your packages? Yes, one of my packages includes an engagement shoot. Do you provide retouching, color adjustment or other corrective services? Yes. I always take my time to retouch my pictures.
How long after the wedding will couples get the proofs? Will they be viewable online? HaitiOpen.com | Fall 2017
and select the pictures they want to print. On average, how many final images do you present to couples per wedding? My packages go from 150 to 200 digital pictures, plus prints.
How much of a deposit do you require, and when is it due? Do you offer a payment plan? I always ask for 70% of the selected package before the wedding day, and the remaining 30% on the day of the ceremony.
I love shooting weddings in Haiti because I get to discover Haiti more. I also love how our people have fun. It’s a cultural thing. We sure know how to have fun! Seven days after the wedding, the client will get a link from my website with a personal password. This allows them to view, download
What’s your refund/cancellation policy? From my side as a professional, I always make sure there are no mistakes and always deliver what’s in my contract so I won’t have to refund or cancel anything. I’m 100% committed to my work. But there’s times when the clients might change some details at the last minute that don’t adjust to my calendar. That’s when me and the client might to make some kind of mutual agreement for a refund if possible. In closing, please provide 5 or more tips for couples that wish to have the best possible wedding experience in Haiti: 1. Book me! 2. Have a wedding planner. 3. Choose a nice location. 4. Know exactly what you want. 5. Plan everything months before the wedding.
Contact details: Email: jbedward7@gmail.com Website: www.edwardmphotography.com Phone: +509 41 00 89 92
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Hotel Montana Photo by Edward Monereau
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EXPERT INTERVIEW
Wedding Photographer Joshua Dwain @joshua_dwain
We love to find the uniqueness about each couple and their wedding. Mr. Dwain, how did you get started in wedding photography? I got started photographing weddings in 2008. My wife (who was my girlfriend at the time) joined me by helping out with weddings in 2010. What do you love most about photographing weddings? What we love most about photographing weddings are the rawness of emotion that weddings have. Most of what people think about when they hear “wedding photography” is contrived images.
How many weddings have you done in Haiti? And what do you love about shooting a wedding in Haiti? We’ve only been able to photograph one wedding in Haiti. We loved 2 things about Haiti: the people and the tropical environment.
Have you shot weddings in other destinations besides Haiti? How do Haiti compare? We’ve shot many weddings across the Caribbean. I think because Haiti’s tourism isn’t as bountiful as other countries, it works to the country’s benefit. We can photograph a wedding in Caribbean country A, but it looks just the same as country B. Haiti has a preserved
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apart from many photographers. In addition to the fact that we place a high value on capturing all parts of the wedding day. This gives our clients a lot of candid, unexpected moments.
Can couples give you a list of specific shots they would like? Sure, we always encourage our brides to give us shots they are drawn to.
Joshua & wife
look, the way nature intended it to be.
How many weddings have you shot? How far in advance must couples book with you? Over 250. Most of our couples book us 8-12 months in advance.
How would you describe your working style and photography style? I would say our style is documentary & creative. We’re personable, yet unobtrusive.
What do you think distinguishes your work from that of other photographers? I think the creative factor sets us
Do you provide retouching, color adjustment or other corrective services? All of our services include color correction and edited images.
In closing, provide a few tips for couples that wish to have the best possible wedding experience in Haiti. 1. Take a trip and explore the surrounding areas. 2. Create a cultural experience for your guests, especially if they are traveling into Haiti. 3. Create a small care package for guests that include bottled water, insect repellent, and Immodium, among other necessities. Contact details: Joshua Dwain Photography http://www.joshuadwain.com info@joshuadwain.com (718) 218-5674
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Royal Decameron Photo by Joshua Dwain
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EXPERT INTERVIEW
Wedding Photographer Verdy Verna @verdyverna
Mr. Verna, how did you get started in wedding photography? I started shooting events for the Kinam Hotel for social media posts. After that, customers started inquiring about wedding photography.
What do you love most about photographing weddings? I love to shoot in general, but for weddings I love to capture raw emotions, unforgettable moments and having to apply all my photography skillset to convey the story.
How many weddings have you done in Haiti? What do you love about shooting a wedding in Haiti? I’m fairly new to weddings. I have about 20 weddings under my belt, most of which I shot this year. If you are familiar with my work, you can conclude that I do my best to showcase the best part of Haiti. I’m very interested in our culture. What do you look forward to when shooting a wedding in Haiti? Mostly outdoor settings. I’m always looking forward to showing the Caribbean aspect – for example, beautiful blue skies, the beach and mountains in the background. Of course, I make sure I cover everything from formal portraits to the setup details and close-ups, whether it’s inside or outdoors.
How far in advance must couples book with you? I will accept a shoot up to a month before the date, based on my availability.
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What packages do you offer? All packages are customized based on the couple’s needs.
What type of album designs do you offer? I offer a customized website and photobooks, and all images are delivered on a USB stick or via a Dropbox link. When will couples receive a written contract? Up to a year before the wedding date.
How would you describe your working style? Bold, bright and colorful. What do you think distinguishes your work from that of other photographers? To constantly be creative requires a lot of work. I remain active throughout the entire event. What type of equipment do you use? I have a couple of Nikon bodies. What information do you need from couples before the wedding day? They must at least provide a shot list before the wedding day.
How much of a deposit do you require, and when is it due? Do you offer a payment plan? What is your refund/cancellation policy? I require a minimum $600 deposit depending on the final proposal. It’s nonrefundable, but transferable to different dates or different couples. I require the deposit at least a month before the wedding date. In closing, please provide 5 or more tips to couples that wish to have the best possible wedding experience in Haiti:
1. Make sure you like the photographer’s style. 2. Have a “must have” shot list. 3. Provide a timeline. 4. It’s always beneficial to book the engagement shoot. 5. Share your vision! Your contact details: info@verdyverna.com +509 4107-5959
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Petion-Ville Photo by Verdy Verna
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EXPERT INTERVIEW
Wedding Photographer Johny Luc @redlightphotos
Mr. Luc, how did you get started in wedding photography? Photography was always a passion for me when I was growing up. While attending FIU’s school of Engineering, I started practicing and building my photography skills by photographing events for free and setting up free photo shoots. I opened my own photo studio in 2010.
What do you love most about photographing weddings?
I love capturing one of the most beautiful events of one’s life. What do you love about shooting a wedding in Haiti? And how many weddings have you done in Haiti? It provides me the opportunity to showcase Haiti’s natural beauty. To date I’ve completed 2 weddings in Haiti; one wedding in Abaka Bay, and another at the Royal Decameron Resort. How far in advance must couples book with you? Most clients book a year in advance, but to me it does not matter. As long as the date is available, I’m always ready to shoot.
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average, how many final images do you present to couples per wedding? Yes, I provide services to retouch, correct color and correct any issues. On average I deliver from 300 to 500 photos.
How many weddings have you shot? Throughout my entire photography wedding career, I’d say close to 500 weddings.
How would you describe your photography? And can couples give you a list of specific shots they would like? I would say all three. It’s good to keep it traditional, photojournalistic, and creative. It all depends on the client’s choice in the end. Some couples do specify the shots they want captured. What packages do you offer? And can couples customize a package based on their needs? I offer many different packages, from low- to high-budget. I am very flexible and can create a package that fits the couple’s needs, wants and budget. Do you provide retouching, color adjustment or other corrective services? And on
How much of a deposit do you require and when is it due? Do you offer a payment plan? I require a 25% down payment to enter into an agreement. The remaining balance has to be paid in full 10 days before the wedding date. Yes, I do offer a payment plan for any couples who are interested. In closing, provide 5 or more tips for couples that wish to have the best possible wedding experience in Haiti:
1. Book your Venue as early as possible. Make sure your venue has beautiful features that can serve as a beautiful backdrop for your wedding photos. 2. If you can afford a dream wedding in Haiti, I would recommend that you hire an experienced photography company from the United States. 3. Plan to have ceremony early in the day. Natural lighting is always best. 4. If the wedding is at a resort by the sea, plan to have the ceremony and reception in proximity. 5. Finally, do not let an amateur photographer ruin it for you. Contact details: jredlightphotos@gmail.com 954-348-2451 www.myredlightphotos.com
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Royal Decameron Photo by Johny Luc
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Jonise &
Milien
March 25, 2017 Venue: Royal Decameron Photographer: Tony Barreau
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Sobrina &
Ricky December 5, 2015 Venue: Sans-Souci Palace Photographer: Hugue-Robert Marsan
Hugue-Robert Marsan hrmarsanweddings HaitiOpen.com | Fall 2017
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Sans-Souci Palace / Photo by Hugue-Robert Marsan @hrmarsanweddings
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Sans-Souci Palace / Photo by Hugue-Robert Marsan @hrmarsanweddings
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Dorothy &
Dadley July 26, 2017 Venue: Villa Thérèse Photographer: Edward Monereau
Edward Monereau edward_jb
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Lily &
Darnel June 20, 2014
Venue: Royal Decameron Photographer: Joshua Dwain Décor: KonfettiDecor
Joshua Dwain jashua_dwain KonfettiDecor konfettidecor HaitiOpen.com | Fall 2017
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Royal Decameron / Photo by Joshua Dwain @joshua_dwain
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Royal Decameron / Photo by Joshua Dwain @joshua_dwain
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Carene &
Josima July 14, 2017 Venue: Kinam Hotel Photogapher: Amely Pierre
Amely Pierre @fefotom Myrlande Affriany myrlande5555@gmail.com
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Kinam Hotel / Photo by Amely Pierre @fefotom
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Kinam Hotel / Photo by Amely Pierre @fefotom
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Jeanne &
Fred
July 22, 2017 Venue: Kaliko Beach Club Photographer: Amely Pierre Décor: Myrlande Affriany
Amely Pierre fefotom Myrlande Affriany myrlande5555@gmail.com
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Caroline &
Charles June 3, 2017
Venue: Villa Thérèse Photographer: Verdy Verna Décor: AyitiDecoMariage
Verdy Verna verdyverna Ayitidecomariage ayiti_deco HaitiOpen.com | Fall 2017
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Lucile &
Pierrot July 29, 2016
Venue: Abaka Bay Resort Photographer: Johny Luc
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Ann-Sophie &
Jean-Luc July 15, 2017
Location: Paillant, Miragaone Photographer: Verdy Verna
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Verdy Verna verdyverna
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Medjine &
Stephan January 7, 2017 Venue: Royal Decameron Photographer: Trene Forbes Décor: KonfettiDecor
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Moulin Sur Mer
Weddings in Paradise By Isabelle Vasquez @moulinsurmer
P
lan your wedding away from the stress of daily life and cold northern winters, and offer your guests a vacation as they celebrate one of the most important days of your life with you! Moulin Sur Mer beach resort is located on the Côte des Arcadins, north of Haiti’s capital of Port-auPrince. It is located on a historic colonial property whose owners are determined to honor Haiti’s rich history by housing a restored and maintained sugar refinery on the grounds. Moulin Sur Mer is an ideal
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location for a destination wedding. It offers no fewer than nine idyllic and picture-perfect settings for the ultimate beach wedding. When you choose Moulin Sur Mer, you can opt for an intimate affair with as few as 15 of your closest friends and family members or a big “do” with as many as 500 guests. You can even pick your own private island, Zile Soley, which offers some of the most beautiful sunsets along the Côte des Arcadins or the Captain’s Pagoda for smaller, more intimate events. You and your guests will be floored by the various hues of
blue surrounding your “I dos”. Immerse yourself in Haiti’s rich culture and history by holding your ceremony in the historical Ogier-Fombrun Museum, which is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the successful slave uprising that resulted in the world’s first Black republic in 1804. The museum’s chapel and the surrounding grounds provide an unforgettable backdrop to your once-in-a-lifetime event! Your guests will be sure to enjoy the mouthwatering Haitian cuisine prepared especially for you and your guests.
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Moulin Sur Mer offers you a unique venue rich in Haitian history and culture that is sure to provide you and your loved ones with memories you will cherish for a lifetime. But weddings are just the start. Why not commemorate the day you said your “I dos” by celebrating your wedding anniversary or renewing your vows at Moulin Sur Mer? How about an intimate dinner by the sea? Or bring the whole family for a trip that will linger in their memories for years to come? The resort has activities for all ages to enjoy. They offer water sports such as kayaking, standup paddle boarding, jet-skiing or snorkeling. What with beach volleyball, the minigolf, tennis and basketball courts, no one could complain of boredom. Take a fun boat excursion with Marina Blue, their in-house Marina, which offers several tours of nearby hidden gems ¬– such as Anse à Pirogue, Anse à Galets and many more hidden coves ¬– along the Côte des Arcadins, which the boat captains of Marina Blue know like the backs of their hands. For the more adventurous, consider booking a scuba-diving trip, as Marina Blue is a PADI-certified destination. If you get tired of water sports,
there are also 4x4 rentals that enable you to go off-roading and explore the rugged terrain around the Côte des Arcadins, where you can discover the watercress farms at Kay Piat, the Chemins de Montrouis and many more exciting locations! Moulin Sur Mer is also the ideal place to book a bachelorette party with yoga retreats with the worldrenowned yogi and artist, Ama Makeda. There’s no better way to bond with your bridal party than by aligning your chakras with some Vitamin Sea! These yoga retreats also offer guidance from a nutritionist, spa time with a masseuse, and an acupuncture specialist. You and your bridal party will feel at one with
the universe and each other as you are rejuvenated by connecting with the earth. Listen to waves crashing around you as you perform your sun salutations while facing the morning sun, and enjoy the kinds of sunsets you see in postcards. Sur Mer Beach resort offers a wide array of entertainment, making it one of the best places to plan all things wedding! You’ll leave with amazing memories to share with your friends back home – and when they ask, you can tell them “Yes, this is Haiti!” Contact details: Moulin sur Mer +509 3701 1918 www.moulinsurmer.com
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Le Plaza Hotel
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A HIDDEN OASIS IN PORT-AU-PRINCE By: Isabelle Vasquez
L
ooking for a gorgeous setting for your dream wedding right in the middle of Port-au-Prince? Look no further than Le Plaza Hotel! This gorgeous hidden gem offers everything you’ll need to fully enjoy your wedding day and your honeymoon. The lush gardens have been maintained and entertained since 1951 in order to offer you a cornucopia of fruit trees and ornamental trees flanked with tall palm trees which make up the green gardens surrounded by the sounds of flowing water from the fountains, you will be fully immersed in a tropical garden paradise. A pool with its inviting blue waters sits right at the center of the property so you can enjoy a nice refreshing dip once the big day is over and the I dos have been exchanged! Le Plaza Hotel offers a fully catered experience, which will allow you to relax and enjoy your nuptials while you leave all the details to their expert staff. Their fully equipped reception hall is newly renovated in contemporary state of the art
architecture. When you book your wedding reception at Le Plaza Hotel, a honeymoon suite is put at your disposal as your daily headquarters to get ready for your ceremony and to spend your first night as husband and wife. The honeymoon suites offer all the amenities a young couple could ask for; a sitting area, a kitchenette, modern bathroom, and of course a sprawling bed fit for a honeymoon. You’ll find yourself a stone’s throw away from the historical MUPANAH museum for some sightseeing and at walking distance from dozens of different artisans where you can purchase authentic Haitian souvenirs. Le Plaza Hotel is a hidden oasis in Port-au-Prince’s Champs de Mars offering discerning couples a unique experience right in Haiti’s historical center where you will begin to create new memories with the love of your life that will last you a lifetime!
Contact details: PlazaHaiti.com +509 2814 6000 conferences@plazahaiti.com
The lush gardens have been maintained and entertained since 1951…. HaitiOpen.com | Fall 2017
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HAITI’S
TOP WEDDING VENUES & VENDORS Karibe Hotel Pétion-Ville, Haiti 509-2812-7000 www.karibehotel.com
Servotel
Wedding Venues: AVERAGE COST: $35 PER PERSON Royal Decameron Indigo Beach Resort & Spa Cote des Arcadins, Haiti 509-2815-0111 www.decameron.com
Moulin Sur Mer
Port-au-Prince, Haiti 509-2812-7500 www.servotelhaiti.com
Villa Thérèse Pétion-Ville, Haiti 509-2816-0605 www.hotelvillatherese.com
Colins Hotel Jacmel, Haiti 509-2818-8686 www.colinshotel.com
Cote des Arcadins, Haiti 509-3701-1918 www.moulinsurmer.com
DreamCatcher
Kaliko Beach Club
Port-au-Prince, Haiti 509-2814-6000 www.plazahaiti.com
Kinam Hotel Pétion-Ville, Haiti 509-2944-6000 www.hotelkinam.com
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Ayiti Deco Mariage Jaelle JL Josecite +509 31 21 6073 ayitidecomariage.com ayiti_deco
Gaïa & Bianka Stecher 305-904-6660 +509 48 90 4090 gaiastecher@gmail.com
Cote des Arcadins, Haiti 509-2940-4609 www.kalikobeachblu.com
Le Plaza Hotel
Photo by Tony Barreau
Wedding Planners & Décor: AVERAGE COST: $1,500 Konfetti Décor Angie Menuau Joseph +509 37 83 38 03 konfettidecor.com konfettidecor
Myrlande Affriany +509 47 07 1630 myrlande5555@gmail.com
Circ’O Event Planning Christelle G. Octivius 954-708-7878
Bj’s Party Rental Jean Leon +509 44 40 7819
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Joshua Photography Joshua Dwain 718-218-5674 jashua_dwain
Artistic Vision & Design
Wedding Photographers: AVERAGE COST: $1,200 Redlight Photos Johny Luc 954-348-2451 redlightphotos
Fe Fotom
Tony Barreau 954-505-7462 @avdpics
Videographer
Brierre Photography Gerry Brierre 305-323-2791
DJ’s & Twoubadou: AVERAGE COST $300 ($100 HOURLY)
Verna Photography Verdy Verna +509 41 07 5959 verdyverna
DJ Cash Cash Michelet Josama +509 37 02 5328
Monereau Photography
HRMarsan Studios Hugue-Robert Marsan +509 37 01 4767 hrmarsanweddings
Thermitus Photography Jameson Thermitus +509 31 14 1011 jamesonthermitus
Trene Forbes Photography Trene Forbes 410-303-4490 treneforbesphotography
Spex Photographic Makinley Madhere 305-2192586 spexphotos
Autrement Bon Geneviève Nemorin +509 22 26 5578
Junior Dieubon 786-486-4893 JD.Productions
Amely Pierre +509 37 19 0142 fefotom
Edward Monereau +509 41 00 8992 edward_jb
Two Sisters Bakery Sandra & Ericka +509 48 90 9383
Bakers & Chefs: CAKE AVERAGE COST: $500 CHEF AVERAGE COST: $1,500 Piece of Cake Tanya Lemaire +509 47049370 pochaiti@gmail.com
Bistro Kay
Troubadour Colibri +509 34 61 2613
Jazz & Family Amazan Audoine +509 36 18 2393
TSBZ ROCK Manager Olivier +509 44 88 2945
Chef David +509 37 28 8962
Arome Catering Chefs: Alain & Tony +509 3702 6207
jojo Restaurant Chef Jouvens Jean +509 44 14 6983
WWW.HAITIOPEN.COM/WEDDINGS Visit the website to see additional vendors and venues with complete portfolio and profile, with countless photos, wedding and work history, and additional contact details.
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UPCOMING
2018 EDITIONS
JANUARY 2018
APRIL 2018
Foods, Health & Fitness
Travel Edition
How to favorite Haitian foods, top dishes, recipes, fruits, groceries, beverages, healthy cooking, top restaurants, and cooking tips from top Haitian chefs; health tips from top Haitian doctors in different fields to help you live healthier. And fitness tips, goals, and step-by-step workout plans from top Haitian trainers and fitness gurus to help you reach your 2018 body goal.
Our yearly Haiti travel edition covers where to sleep, where to go, what to do, and how to get there like no one else. This year over 100 contestants will compete to be on the cover as the HOTTEST HAITIAN WOMEN ALIVE for our travel edition. We’ll fly the top 10 women to Haiti to take photos in various hot spots, hotels, pools, beaches, and resorts for that sizzling travel edition.
JULY 2018
OCTOBER 2018
Culture Edition
Wedding Edition
The edition is a complete coverage of yearly events (Kanaval, Compas Festival, Taste of Haiti, and top Galas) and interviews with leading musicians and artists. And to showcase top Haitian arts, Haitian artists, fashion collection of local and top designers from Haiti and in the Diaspora, to help their arts and work reach a mainstream audience.
Similar to this wedding edition you’re reading, next year we’ll showcase more real Haiti weddings, as we help brides and grooms on “How to Say I Do in Haiti” when it comes time to tie the knot. An updated list of top wedding venues and vendors will available in print and online via HaitiOpen. com. And additional expert interviews from different wedding vendors on how to have the best possible wedding in Haiti will be included with even more tips.
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ADVERTISING BENEFITS Free Magazine
Social Media
10,000 COPIES
FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM
USA: Available in 100+ businesses in North Miami, Little Haiti, Miami Gardens, Miramar, Palm Beach, Washington, DC, Boston, MA, New York, NY, Atlanta, GA, Orlando, FL and 100+ libraries. HAITI: Available in 50+ locations in Portau-Prince, Petion-Ville, Cote des Arcadins, PAP Airport ; including all major hotels (Royal Decameron, Moulin Sur Mer, Kaliko Beach Club, Karibe, Kinam, Le Plaza Hotel and more).
On-going campaigns for the magazine and its quarterly editions reach over 250,000 people every three months. Our campaigns encourage people to read the magazine and to enter free sweepstakes to Haiti.
Free App
Billboards, Buses and More
IOS AND ANDROID All magazine editions are available inside the HAITI OPEN app for all iOS and Android devices for free. Readers are able to read each edition on their own time anywhere in the world with their mobile devices.
Website & Directory www.HaitiOpen.com
Our website is a leading platform with rich organized contents on Haiti tourism. All of Haiti’s top destinations, attractions, restaurants, wedding vendors, hotels and resorts are listed with complete details and countless photos. And visitors are able to subscribe to quarterly sweepstakes to win free trips to Haiti.
Mainstream Advertising In 2016 alone our mainstream campaigns reached over 10 million impressions in South Florida. From an i95 billboard in Hallandale Beach Fl (February – March 2016), to five metro buses full backs and 10 bus shelters from Downtown Miami to Hallandale Beach, FL (May – June 2016). No other Haitian owned media in the Diaspora promotes Haiti and its people as much as HAITI OPEN.
Advertise with us CONTACT US TODAY Jean Alfred Delva, founder info@haitiopen.com 1-844-HAITI-OPEN 305-842-3555 haitiopen.com HaitiOpen.com | Fall 2017
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