Caribbean Wedding Checklist

Start Soaking Black Cake Fruits

Soak dried fruits in rum and port wine. Some families begin up to a year ahead, since the Black Cake needs the longest lead time.

Bake and Rum-Soak the Black Cake

Bake the Black Cake with the soaked fruits, browning and spices. Keep feeding it rum every week.

Hire Steel Pan Band

Book a professional steel pan band for the ceremony and the reception.

Plan Procession Route (if applicable)

Plan the route from the ceremony to the reception, and check the local regulations.

Order Tropical Flowers

Order tropical flowers for the bouquets and the venue decoration.

Book Caribbean Caterer

Hire a caterer who has experience with Caribbean cuisine.

Source Rum for Punch and Cake

Buy good dark rum for feeding the Black Cake and for the rum punch.

Prepare Decorated Broom (if jumping)

If you plan to jump the broom, decorate one with ribbons, flowers and fabric in your wedding colors.

Prepare Rum Punch

Make fresh rum punch for the welcome drinks and the toasts.

Final Black Cake Icing and Display

Apply the final marzipan and royal icing, and set up the cake display.

Set Up Tropical Decorations

Arrange the tropical flower centerpieces, palm fronds and seashell accents.

Confirm Steel Pan Band Arrival

Check that the steel pan band has arrived and is set up.

Organize Cooking Team

Coordinate the family members and friends who will help, and assign each of them dishes.

Purchase Bulk Cooking Ingredients

Buy rice, peas, chicken, goat, fish, seasonings and ground provisions in bulk.

Arrange Cooking Space

Arrange a large kitchen or outdoor cooking area, with large pots and serving equipment.