John and I just got back from Dreams on Friday! The resort is more beautiful than the pictures lead you to believe. We had a great time meeting w/ all the vendors and relaxing poolside. It was a much needed vacation for both of us. Here's some info that I gathered:
Juan Carlos Tapia: We were so excited to meet him in person, just b/c we have been admiring his work for so long. He was nice in person, but he just didn't seem too excited to be a part of our wedding day. He also brought us an old album of his to showcase his work. I guess those are minor things...he does take fantastic pictures (no one can deny that).
Sam Perches: We definately got a good vibe from him. He's so laid back and seems easy to work w/. He brought his laptop to showcase his demo, which was really put together and well done. He doesn't require a deposit, nor a contract. Just tell him what time to be there, for how long, and you pay him once you get the final product. I believe I posted his prices on another thread. FYI, for the singletons, his girlfriend works in the hotel next to Dreams.
Fabian Espinosa: He does photography and videography. I posted his prices on another thread. He came w/ his wife; she's a photographer as well. Both were very enthusiastic to meet us. Although he has been in the advertising side of photography, I think he's beefing up his wedding business. His website isn't complete yet, and he didn't have a concise demo/portfolio on hand to show us. He is going to email me a slideshow of his "finished" photos; I will post as soon as I get them. Here is a link to his video sample Wedding video in cabo
Yessica Garcia: She has the sweetest personality. She is very busy (we saw a wedding or a private event almost every day we were there) and gets a ton of emails. When we were checking out, the front desk person told us that we should try to be concise and thorough w/ our emails to Yesica b/c sometimes details may get lost in the shuffle. She has a very accomodating personality and I'm sure she'll do a great job.
Dreams Spa: Wonderful! We got a couples massage and it was awsome. They're 2007 prices are posted somewhere, but they will be going up in 2008. For a mani/pedi party, the services must be held at the spa. They can do 4 people at a time (2 mani, 2 pedi). For those that are waiting for their turn, they can use the jacuzzi, sauna, or steam room. They only have 2 lounge chairs in the waiting/relaxing area. So if you have a large group, it might not be ideal.
Food at Dreams: Pretty good. I think my guests will like it. The tasting went well. THe beef tenderloin is a must. My only complaint is that the seafood is laiden w/ butter. That's just my person preference though.
Somes info I jotted down to let my guest know and/ or to remember:
-if there are guest w/ special needs (elderly-first floor...) make arrangements w/ Yessica to accomodate them
-american outlets (I can bring my hair dryer and flat iron)
-put towel out on lounge chair ASAP
-let BM and GM know that they will have to pay to get their attire pressed
-rooms have DVD payer
-you must pay for internet use
-beware of vacation consultant once you check in. They will want to tell you about a "welcome package" AKA time share
-Taxis are expensive (airport to Dreams $60; Dreams to airport $35) so make arrangement to and from airport
-Bring $1 for tips for pool person, housekeeping, room service, airport shuttle driver and bell boy (especially if you have a lot of luggage)
For all the BTBs, if you have any questions just PM me. Sorry this post is so long.