WPIC Goes to Antigua and Barbuda to Train Members of the ABHTA

By Tracey Manailescu, WPICC, DWC, CWD Co-founder of The Wedding Planners Institute of Canada Inc.

WPIC Returns to Antigua and Barbuda for Our 5th Training with the ABHTA

Last week, WPIC Co-founder Tracey Manailescu had the incredible opportunity to travel to Antigua and Barbuda to deliver the Wedding Planner, Coordinator, and Consultant Certification course, in partnership with the Antigua Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA). This marks the fifth time WPIC has partnered with the ABHTA for training, and we are thrilled to see the growth and enthusiasm continue year after year!

A special and heartfelt thank you goes out to Ms. Anthea Watkins, Head of Operations of the ABHTA, whose outstanding organizational skills and dedication ensured another successful course. With 27 attendees this time around, it was the largest class we have hosted in Antigua and Barbuda to date. A true testament to the local passion for wedding tourism and excellence in service.

Tracey was graciously hosted at the exquisite Blue Waters Resort & Spa, a luxurious five-star property that perfectly blends elegance with the natural beauty of the Caribbean. Nestled directly on the waterfront, the resort offered stunning sunsets, impeccable service, incredible food, and world-class facilities. A truly unforgettable experience.

This visit marked Tracey’s first time in Antigua and Barbuda, and thanks to the incredible hospitality of Ms. Anthea Watkins and Ms. Cleo Henry, it was a trip filled with exploration, authentic local experiences, and pure indulgence.

Tracey was treated to a full-day island tour covering two-thirds of the island, along with numerous site visits, delicious local meals, and unforgettable excursions. Some highlights included a speedboat trip over to The Hut, tasting freshly baked pastries from a local bakery, and sampling fresh bananas, mangoes, and the island’s famous black pineapple from roadside vendors.

The training itself took place over two days at the Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality Training Institute (ABHTI). Attendees participated in engaging lectures, an interactive group assignment, and had the chance to hear from an inspiring local guest speaker, Teneisha Richards, WPICC of Unique Events by TSR.

Now, the newly trained students have two weeks to read over their notes, study their course textbook and prepare to complete their final certification exam.

We are so proud to continue building strong relationships in Antigua and Barbuda and are incredibly excited to see how these talented individuals will grow and contribute to the thriving wedding and event industry on the islands.

Congratulations to all our students. We can’t wait to officially welcome you into the WPIC Alumni family!

Fun facts about Antigua and Barbuda:

365 Beaches. One for Every Day of the Year
Antigua boasts 365 stunning beaches, meaning couples can visit a new beach every single day of the year. Talk about endless romantic sunset walks!

Home to Some of the World’s Most Beautiful Sunsets
The sunsets in Antigua and Barbuda are legendary, with vibrant colours painting the sky, creating the perfect backdrop for proposals, weddings, and romantic dinners.

A Popular Destination for Celeb Weddings and Honeymoons
Famous couples, including Giorgio Armani and Eric Clapton, have chosen Antigua for private getaways, weddings, or vacation homes, adding to its glamorous romantic appeal.

Barbuda’s Pink Sand Beaches
Barbuda, the sister island, features incredible pink sand beaches — an ultra-romantic, rare sight that’s ideal for elopements, vow renewals, or intimate honeymoons.

Home of the Black Pineapple
Known as the world’s sweetest pineapple, Antigua’s “Black Pineapple” is a delicious local treat often incorporated into romantic picnics or signature cocktails for couples.

Romantic Boat Excursions and Private Island Picnics
Couples can charter private yachts, enjoy secluded beach picnics on uninhabited islands, or explore hidden coves. Ultimate romance on the open sea.

Steel Pan Serenades
At many local resorts and beach bars, couples can dance the night away to live steel pan music, bringing a soulful, joyful energy to their evenings.

Luxury Resorts Tailored for Romance
Antigua and Barbuda are home to several adults-only and boutique luxury resorts that specialize in couple-focused experiences like private plunge pools, candlelit dinners, and spa treatments for two.

Historic Romantic Backdrops
Sites like Shirley Heights offer sweeping panoramic views perfect for proposals or wedding photos, especially during the famous Sunday sunset parties.

Warm, Welcoming Culture
Beyond the scenery, the islands’ warm and friendly people make every romantic moment feel even more genuine and memorable.