WPIC Speaks at “Come for the Romance” Conference in Bahamas

By Tracey Manailescu, WPIC Co-founder

Last week I had the immense pleasure of speaking at, and attending, “Come for the Romance” Wedding Conference in Nassau, Bahamas on behalf of WPIC. I am having a difficult time adjusting to day to day life again. We were wined, dined and completely spoiled!

The conference was for destination wedding planners and travel agents put on by The Bahamas Bridal Association and the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism.

Panelists

• Cindy M. Knowles – President, Bahamas Bridal Association
• Tara Melvin – Founder & President, National Society of Black Weddings & Events Planners
• Tracey Manailescu – Vice-President, The Wedding Planners Institute of Canada
• *Andrea Williams – President, Exquisite Vacations Inc.

Moderator

• Marva Munroe – Owner, Chic Bahamas Weddings

The keynote speaker was Lisa Sheldon – Founder, Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Specialists Association

From the moment I arrived, I was well taken care of. I was greeted and whisked through the VIP security at the airport and taken to the hired car.

We stayed at the beautiful Margaritaville in the heart of downtown, Nassau. I had time to relax and enjoy at the pool. (I arrived a day early and stayed a day afterwards).

That evening I went for dinner at Curley’s at the Fish Fry with Michelle Mikula-Smith.

It was such a well-thought out and designed three-day event.

Our opening welcome party was at Warwick Paradise Island All-Inclusive.

Day 2

The groups were split in two. Some went to Harbour Island, and others toured some wonderful properties in Nassau. My group was the 2nd.

We started off at The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort & the Versailles Gardens and French Cloister. It is from a 14th-century Augustinian monastery, dismantled and imported from Europe by William Randolph Hearst. 

Then off to Comfort Suites, Paradise Island which is a great lower cost alternative for families.

Next was Atlantis. It’s our go to in the Bahamas.

We had the best lunch at Marcus at Baha Mar. I have quite a few photos of it because it was my hands-down favourite meal on island. The presentation and taste were exceptional! I’m pretty sure that I’ll stay here the next time I’m in the Bahamas for a personal vacation.

While we were visiting Sandals Royal Bahamian, we got to take the boat over to the private island. The beer helped cool us off a bit 😉

Day 3 was the seminars and tradeshow.

As mentioned above, I was asked to speak on a panel with other wedding and travel pros. We then were able to visit with wedding suppliers at their booths in a speed dating atmosphere.

We had 5 minutes to visit everyone and then could circle back to speak more with anyone we wished to learn more about. There were some great vendors and we made some great contacts.

Then we were off to lunch.

We had a wonderful site visit and lunch at the infamous Graycliff.

This historic, colonial mansion set in lush tropical gardens is home to Graycliff Hotel and Restaurant, a welcoming oasis of casually elegant tranquillity featuring 20 beautifully appointed guest rooms, two inviting swimming pools, Graycliff Restaurant – the Caribbean’s first 5-star restaurant and much more.

Next was a tour at John Watling’s Distillery ended the afternoon. Of course, we were able to try some samples.

The closing party, ‘Fire Your Desire’ Evening Experience was at the Balmoral Club. What a way to end an incredible few days!

Everyone jived so nicely, and new friendships were formed.

Thank you Freda, Ava, Michelle and Cindy and everyone else involved!

Definitely visit The Bahamas