Turks 2013

[Tropical Imaging]

Originally Posted by Lauren McNamara 

 

Hi girls,

I was wondering what company and what type of wedding insurance everyone is getting for their wedding?

Also, has anyone shipped anything to Turks? Is it very expensive? I want to send sparklers, plate chargers and linens down since I do not know if they have them.

Thanks

 

 

 

Hi Lauren,

 

I would not recommend shipping ANYTHING down here.  You have to pay the shipping and clearing costs AND 40% of the price of the goods in government tax/duty.  (yes that is FORTY PERCENT on top of shipping and clearing.)  So, if you are shipping $300 worth of goods and the shipping and clearing is $100 (probably higher), you will additionally pay $120 in tax.  For that $220 you could pack 4 extra suitcases and give to guests and bring down!   I don't know the regulations regarding fireworks, though we have had some people use sparklers and there is a fireworks company on island.  Additionally you will need to have someone who will drop off invoices of the goods before clearing, they have to pay and get them out of customs after clearing (and in all honesty it is something that makes me crazy  because of all of the time and paperwork (and money) involved and I have been here 18 years and know how it works).  

 

Do not ship anything if you do not have invoices/receipts attached and copies made as that can hold up the items indefinitely (or they can assess the value at whatever they feel ), look at renting via one of the wedding coordinators or paying for extra suitcases for you or bridal party and just bringing them down.   It will be a lot cheaper and a lot less hassle.   If you still want to ship down,  you need to allow at least 3 weeks for various hiccups that can occur.  I personally allow for 4 weeks. 

 

Your hotel or wedding coordinator will be able to give you an idea on linens available.  You may just want to go with their white cloths and bring some table runners, in the colors of your choice. 

 

I just don't want you to ship things down expecting it to be like the US.  It will be held up in customs until someone produces paperwork to clear it, then pay for it and then it can be 2-3 (or more) business days to get it. 

 

Krys

[stephcee]

Hi fellow t&c brides!! Does anyone have the contact info for DJ William? And or the junkanoo band? My wedding date is 12/15/13 Sunday @ GBC. Anyone out there with similar dates? Thank you! Steph

[Lauren McNamara]

Tropical Imaging, thank you so much! You just provided me with great information which will help me in the planning process! I can't wait to meet you since you are my wedding photographers/videographers! 

[chitap]

Here is DJ Williams info:  william john <williejamz@hotmail.com>

 

You can find contact info for other vendors etc. on my thread Gansevoort Turks and Caicos Wedding.  

[stephcee]

Hi chitap, I wanted to send you a pm but the account won't allow more than 2/day so I'll wait until tomorrow! Haha thanks so much!!!

[KaraMae]

Does anyone happen to know if you need a full passport book to enter T&C or if you can just use the cheaper passport card? I can't see to get a straight answer!

[Tropical Imaging]

Originally Posted by Lauren McNamara 

 

Tropical Imaging, thank you so much! You just provided me with great information which will help me in the planning process! I can't wait to meet you since you are my wedding photographers/videographers! 

 

 

 

Glad to help!  Dealing with a different country and being far away can be a challenge.  Living here 18 years, I am happy to help when I can!

 

Looking forward to your wedding!

 

Krys

[Tropical Imaging]

Originally Posted by KaraMae 

 

Does anyone happen to know if you need a full passport book to enter T&C or if you can just use the cheaper passport card? I can't see to get a straight answer!

 

http://www.turksandcaicostourism.com/by-air.html

 

This is the official site of the tourist board, and it states clearly:

 

Vistors from the US are reminded that effective Janaury 8, 2007, all US citizens visiting the Caribbean must be in possession of a valid US passport.

 

Additionally, I have never heard of anyone coming in on a card.  You will need a passport.

 

Hope that helps.

 

Krys

[KaraMae]

Oh my gosh yes it does! I read something else on the USPS website that said a card was good enough. I'll make sure to get the full book! Thanks!

[emiillly]

Lauren M - were you ever able to find out info about sparklers on turks & caicos? From what I've seen, US companies won't ship internationally to Turks so wondering if there is a vendor on the island?