swankster77

Quote: Originally Posted by KLee147 Phew what a ring Kirsten! You're man done good. Oh and nice website too. lol. I made one for our wedding but found that no one ever looked at it. They just called to ask all the questions they had regarless if it was on the website already. I later made a facebook group for our wedding. I found that worked out much better for my family and friends because we're facebook junkies. Thanks And having a Facebook group is an awesome idea! I never thought of that! Quote: Originally Posted by SusieQ I don't have a wedding website however I do have a ering that is very simular to yours. I am so in love with my ring! Beautiful ring! Love love love it!

This is kind of off subject but I was wondering if any other GBP brides have a wedding website? If so I'd like to see it! Here is mine: Kirsten & Aaron

Congrats JamieJ!!! I would LOVE to see your pictures from the resort photog... I'm still debating using them or bringing one with me... when you're ready let me know and I'll post my email address Thanks! Did you have a DJ

Quote: Originally Posted by KLee147 I agree with this too. You're better off bringing it with you and/or your guests. One thing I would like to add (I think Emme mentioned this) is bring the reciepts for everything that you're bringing down with you. This could save you alot of hassle if you get stopped with the customs folks. What kinds of things would have trouble in customs? What exactly did you need receipts for? Sorry... I just never thought about this before and I'm pretty ignorant when it comes to this stuff I guess! For example... did you need receipts for the favors? The OOT bags/contents? Other things?

Quote: Originally Posted by HereFishie I've seen alot of different names of WC's for this resort. Who is yours? Ours is Eugenia. Anyone else have/had her? Is she any good?? I was under the impression that each section had their own coordinators (Coba, Tulum & Akumal)... Our coordinator is Jazmin... so far so good except the inconsistency with some information she's given me compared to what the girls on here have experienced. I know it will all work out but it's still frustrating when money is involved

Quote: Originally Posted by swong Thank you very much Jackie, the info given are very useful! I have been trying to look for contacts for a wedding coordinator at BH. I just sent out an email, do you think I should call them as well? Here is the email address of Paloma Flores the Event Manager at GBP who will assign you a wedding coordinator: [email protected]. But be prepared to have some patience because it can take 1-3 weeks for a response! I have never called so I'm not sure if you would have any luck going that route... Good luck

I FINALLY got a response from Jazmin regarding the DJ/iPod issue and I'm not happy. This is exactly what she wrote: For the cocktail party the DJ is coming to make sure everything works well but what couples pay for is the equipment, the cost is 190usd per hr. So basically we pay the same amount regardless if the DJ is there or not? This does not make sense to me. Can anyone please provide some insight on this? Who has used the resort DJ and did it cost $190 per hour? Who was able to rent equipment to hook up an iPod and how much did it cost you? Did the DJ come to make sure everything worked okay?

Quote: Originally Posted by *Nadine* Im probably too late on this but I would say just ask her. I went through this same situation and ended up asking one of my close friends to stand up with me quite a few months after I had asked the other girls. She completely understood where I was coming from and knew where I was coming from when I did ask my bmaids originally and hse was actually really thrilled and touched to be involved now. Either way, you will figure out whats right for you Thanks... actually I haven't done anything yet... and now after reading your post I'm considering asking her to stand up again... what was your reason for asking her much later than the other girls? did you tell her the situation?

Quote: Originally Posted by HereFishie I asked this a few weeks ago with no luck. Does anyone have this info? I'm sure there's a few brides that would love to know this info for budget purposes. Thank you!! I have received several documents with pricing, photos, etc... we all seem to be getting different info in tiny increments here and there... so i thought I'd put all my info into one place for those who might need it. I'm not sure on the rules on this but it's 38.8 MB so I didn't even attempt to attach it. Instead here is a link to download the info (below). It's only good for 7 days and 100 downloads. So get it while it's still active This file includes: All wedding ceremony package info/prices Marriage Application Pricing for 'Extras' (photography, music, etc) Flowers - pictures & pricing Bar pricing Poolside Cocktail party pictures Ceremony Location pictures Tequila, Tortuga & Children's menus I hope this helps! https://www.yousendit.com/download/M...ZEs3bUJFQlE9PQ

Thanks so much for all the suggestions!! I had pretty much decided to ask her to stand up when I thought of a much more special job for her that actually would have more meaning to me personally. I'm going to have her read our sand ceremony prayer/reading. She is a very sentimental person and I think this is the perfect solution. As for the last minute groomsmen... it's sounding more and more like he won't be able to make it anyway but if he does... you are all right... it doesn't have to be even. Thanks again ladies!

Quote: Originally Posted by SusieQ Hi Raykel, My TA sent a super *itch @ss email to both Jazmin and Paloma about not being flexible about the DJ and allowing us to us our own Ipod and speakers. I also asked about if the restaurant tables were round or square and Jazmin told me she couldn't find that information... You kidding me!!!!! Get up... walk over there... and see.... Surely she has been in the bloodly place before. I'm not sure where your dinner is?? Mine is going to be at Tortuga and this is what Jazmin wrote about the tables/sizes, etc: about the tables just keep in mind we can have square tables since 7 until 10 people max per table and If you have in mind a head table with just 1 face, It is possible but max 4 people ( and just 1 kind of this table is able) I was confused when reading it of course. I guess they have square tables that they can put together to seat 7-10 people? And not sure what she means about a head table with 1 face and 4 people... I'm guessing she'll put 2 tables together and only seat us on one side facing our guests? I don't see why there is a 4 person max though. Can anyone who's had their dinner at Tortuga clarify any of this? Thanks! SusieQ please keep us posted on what you find out.. especially about renting speakers as I'm hoping to do this too. I sent an email to Jazmin asking about it a couple weeks ago and she wrote back and totally ignored my question all she said was 2 hours with DJ and special cocktails would cost $690... I wrote back saying that I wanted to bring an iPod and rent the sound equipment instead.. we'll see if she actually answers me in the next email. I'm getting very annoyed that they allow certain things with some brides but not others. It's just bad business.

Quote: Originally Posted by Lou I was wondering, what type of service was included with your cocktail reception. Did they put up cocktail tables or anything? Decorations? Lights? A bartender and server? And most importantly (according to my fiancee) what kind of drinks did they serve? Thanks! If you email your WC I'm sure they'll send you the same pics they sent me... looks very nice... cocktail tables with white linens, white chairs, white lights, a nice bar area, etc. I received a price list for drinks. Here is is: National Bar: Beer, Rum, Vodka, Tequila, Cocktails, Gin, Whisky 17US$/per person/per hour extra hour: 12 US$/per person/ per hr International Bar: Beer, Tequila, Rum, Vodka Absolute, Whisky JW, Chivas Regal, Cutty Sark, Cocktails, Gin Beefeater, wine of the house, sparkling wine 24 USD/ per person/per hour extra hour: 18 US$/per person/per hr Special Cocktails: Beer, Piña Colada Cocktail, Margarita Cocktail & Sparkling Wine, 5 USD/ per person/per hour extra hour: 3 US$/ per person/per hour I do have a question for those that have had the "special cocktails" bar... This is by far the best price...but obviously very limiting. Did someone say that if you tip well they'll get other types of drinks? I've got a vodka/water type grandma Thanks!!

Quote: Originally Posted by TeNeil Yikes! I must admit that I'm a little scared now about our restaurant choice. We chose Tortuga for our reception as our only options were Tequila or Tortuga. The rodizio style seemed like a unique experience.......and we thought the food would be good. Has anyone else ate at Tortuga?? Maybe they just had an off night?? We also have chosen Tortuga... after reading this thread (all 200ish pages) I was sold... there were many great reviews of this restaurant. I especially love the fact that the food is pretty much endless so no one will go hungry and that there are many different options... so hopefully something there is something for everyone. I agree that the unique experience is a plus...

First of all, if this is in the wrong part of the forum, I apologize... let me know and I'll repost elsewhere. My FI and I agreed to have 3 people stand up on each side (best man/maid of honor and 2 additional attendants) plus 2 ushers and a junior bridesmaid. I wanted 4...but he insisted on 3. So we both asked our respective friends/family... All was settled. Or so I thought... One night he went out with his best man and another friend whom he used to be good friends with. After a couple of drinks he ended up asking this guy to stand up!!!!! WHAT?! Yes, it's true. I was infuriated. His reasoning was that he was worried that one of his other guys would back out and he wouldn't have enough on his side. So this is his 'back-up'... only thing is... this guy doesn't know he's a back up. The guy that he thought might back out is for sure in now... so it looks as though he will have 4 guys. What do I do? Originally when I wanted 4 I really had to struggle to decide between 2 good friends.. and now that friend knows I have not asked her so if I do end up asking her several months after I asked the other girls is she going to feel like an afterthought? Probably... at least i would. Plus what if I do ask her and this guy backs out? I'm stressing really bad over this and I still can't believe my FI did such a thing! Any advice/ideas are welcomed and MUCH appreciated!

Thanks for the awesome review Kiera!! Just a couple questions for you or anyone that's had their wedding there... What's the deal with the sparkling wine included in the ceremony package? Do you toast immediately following the ceremony or is that for later at dinner? The Coba Music Bar... is this only available for those staying on the Coba side? I'm staying at Tulum and am not sure if this is even an option for me. Did you have to rent it out or just pay for the drinks/sound equipment? Is the ceremony in spanish? Translater? Does it translate well?

This forum is filled with so much useful info from real people! It's been a blast so far and i look forward to the months ahead. Thanks to everyone for welcoming me!

Quote: Originally Posted by SusieQ I may have the answer to a few of your questions in the next day or so, I have asked all of your questions because we are planning on doing the same thing. I don't want the cost of the DJ which is like $360 for two hours. I'll let you know what i find out! Yes, please keep us posted on what you find out... I'm wondering the same things. What's up with not being able to get into the Hacienda until midnight? Is that every day or just certain days? It just won't be a wedding for me without dancing!

Quote: Originally Posted by Raykel Question for anyone who has stayed on the Tulum side. Is there only the one a la carte restaurant there? Jazmin has told us we have to have our dinner in the gourmet restaurant and I just want to make sure that is our only option. We were also given the 2 choices of Tequila or La Gran Tortuga... we chose Gran Tortuga... it sounds like a lot of food and more options for everyone. As for the photographer issue... I finally heard back from both Jazmin and Roser Pla that we CAN bring a photographer from home... however they still made it sound like it was an exception... they said it would be our 'secret' wtf?! Anyway, it makes me laugh every time they tell someone this because we all share the info with each other. Yay us!

Quote: Originally Posted by Raykel AS for the other girls on here....has anyone heard back from this Ariffce or however you spell them? I still have not heard back or gotten a website to look at additional photos! This is so frustrating. I have sent another email to Claudia asking what the outcome of her meeting was on Friday. FRom what you guys are being told I am worried it was not good for us. As soon as I hear something I will post it. I did here back from Roser Pla who apparently is the Assistant Manager for Arrecife Studio... see page 205 of this thread. I posted the response I got as well as the 3 pictures they sent. I've since been thinking about bringing my own photographer from WI... does anyone know if this is still allowed? I sent an email to Jazmin but you know how that goes... I probably won't hear back for a couple days and I'm anxious to get the ball rolling!

Quote: Originally Posted by bouldini We are arriving 6/9, so we can get in some relaxing and fun before the wedding. We chose the Tulum Gazebo. I can't wait to get down there!!! Congrats on choosing your date. We'll probably have a lot to talk about between now and then and will be there at the same time!! when do you get there? Also, I'm working with Jazmin now too! We arrive a day before you on June 8... ugh I can't wait! Are you having a civil or religious ceremony? We also chose the Tulum Gazebo and La Gran Tortuga for dinner. Still trying to figure out the whole photog situation... found out we can't bring in a local vendor... but are now wondering if we can bring a photog with us from WI... it's hard emailing Jazmin and Paloma... waiting for a response can feel like forever! What are you doing for photography?

Quote: Originally Posted by Tlseege What is she doing in that second photo It looks like she's raising up her hand and saying "why me lord?" Or something like that. ROFL my thoughts exactly! if any photographer asks me to pose like that i will laugh in their face! um, NO THANKS! the other 2 look nice... I was just hoping for a little more variety...

I emailed the new resort photographer and this was their response: The way we work, is we book you for the basic package (36 pictures for 540 dollars).Even though, we will take the following secuence: * Pictures of the bride getting ready * Pictures of the ceremony * Family and friends photo session * Bride and groom photo session. The day of the wedding, the photographer will give you a time and date of the presentation of his work. This day, we will prepare an incredible slide show with pictures black and white, sepia, color, etc. In the end, the photographer woll create different packages with products and prices that will vary, in order to satisfy your needs and be positive you´re taking home wat you desire. We will set a delivery date and at that moment is when you´ll be paying for the materiall you receive We will be setting a meeting after you meet your wedding coordinator, so you meet the photographer, see some of his workj, meet me, and reasure you´ll be sound and happy. I asked for a portfolio or examples and they sent a total of 3 pictures posted below. Hmmmmmm

Quote: Originally Posted by midnight24 well it's good to know that not everyone did a group rate. i am still deciding...just waiting 'impatiently' for the save the dates! i think sending those out will start to make things feel more official too! so what's this info about conrad not being the resort photog anymore? or about bringing in local photographers? does anyone have the contact info or website for the new photog? i am just trying to figure out our budget now for that. thanks! I got an email from Jazmin last week and this is exactly what she wrote about the photographer: In case you required photo services, the one authorized to shot the weddings is amazing, as follow you can see his main packages, just let me know what you decide to can book him, v DVD 25 minutes, with edition 400.00 USD v Photo Packages (Have to be paid directly to the Photographer) the contact is with Ms Russe Pla, she´s the wedding photo & video manager assistance, and she has 2 emails where you can try to contact her, [email protected] [email protected] So I'm not sure if she's saying this is the only photographer authorized to shoot on the resort? It's kind of vague. The website doesn't show a lot of variety either... so I'm really confused too! If anyone finds anything out please post

Quote: Originally Posted by candicemarie I finally got our weddine site done! Candice + Ricky's Wedding I'm still working on the "Playa" page (I've got to add more about activities and stuff), but the rest is done. I just sent it out to the guests last nite. It took me forever bc I kept changing little things here and there. I just had to make myself stop ha! Candice & Ricky - your website is awesome! Very informative... you seem to have thought of everything! I hope you don't mind but I just might 'borrow' some of your ideas Great job! -Kirsten