I know that at most places the prices increase between Christmas and New Year's, it is a desirable place to be apparently during that time. I can tell you we had a friend who FINALLY made it to St. Maarten after hearing about it from us for years. She thought we were filling her with nirvana and pipe dreams. She finally went and it was an OMG (oh my god) moment for her. She can't wait to bring the rest of her family next year. I say definitely you will need reservations during that time frame, especially night time dining. December is beyond the hurricane season, so if you can embrace the higher prices for that time of year, you will both have a great time. Hope your new wife enjoys it as much as you have, I think she will.