Hi Everyone,
I want to say congrats on your upcoming marriages at Dreams Cancun. I was recently married there (2 weeks ago to be exact - April 20, 2010). Everything was perfect and Claudia was amazing to work with and made our day even more special than we had ever expected.
I would recommend the speakers for the ceremony as it adds to the overall feel and romance of getting everything started. There is a technician that is available, you just have to give him the songs you would like played and let him know when to play them during the ceremony.
We took our own photographer and videographer from home and didn't use the one offered in the package so unfortunately I can't comment on that.
We originally wanted our reception on the Caribe Beach, but it was a bit windy and chilly in the evenings so we moved it to the Club Terrace and it was great. Everyone was really impressed with the set up. The terrace stays open so guests can still go outside, the terrace is right over the beach and you get a great view of the Gazebo.
The minister was Gino and he was great, spoke perfect English and brought laughter and tears to our eyes during the ceremony. Would highly recommend him. The civil ceremony is about 30 minutes. Ours was a bit longer because we said our own vows and also had a reading from the Bible.
For the hair and makeup, I would highly recommend that you go to the spa knowing exactly what you would like done and give them as much direction as possible. Also take your own makeup. They used my make up and wanted to use some of their own to give me that extra special look but I was very disappointed, I looked really made up when I had wanted a very natural look. I'm hoping our photographer can work his magic so the photos don't look like I have too much on. Give yourself a lot of time for the hair and make up. I had mine scheduled at 9 am, and was supposed to be finished by 11 am at the latest but didn't get out until noon-ish and was in a rush to get dressed for the photos before the ceremony.
Otherwise, it was a perfect day and I wouldn't change a thing (except the make up). Claudia was amazing and I really can't thank her enough.