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Quote: Originally Posted by BethAnne Yes, that helps a ton! Thanks! I have a small group- about 10 or 12 so I'm excited that we can all just pick a restaraunt and go there, without having to have a formal type reception. =) I'm going to e-mail Ana now... Kinda worried about the planning though! I know Ana is probly over worked, but it takes forever to get a reply and i worry if she'll ahve everything documented and ironed out when we get there...anyone else have this fear? Former brides.. tell me how this worked out for you when you arrived!! BethAnne - I wouldn't get too stressed or worried. They do so many weddings that I'm sure Ana can make anything work for your intimate group. Just let her know what your preferences are for ceremony/reception locations. Unless a restaurant is closed or someone else has reserved it for a private party, I think anywhere at the resort will be able to accomodate your group. That's one advantage of keeping it small!!

Quote: Originally Posted by pbjwed it looks like the last couple was able to have their wedding reception outside at seaside grille? Did anyone talk to Ana about this? Do you mean the couple in the 5/15/10 slideshow? If so - I was at the resort that weekend and actually saw their wedding. And yes - the reception was at the Seaside Grill. Which I think is an excellent option/choice if your party is on the smaller side. I'm not sure what the capacity for a reception is in that restaurant - but if you want enough room for dancing, I'd guess around 40pp. It's nice because it's covered overhead, but you still get a beautiful view of the ocean and the pools, yet your group is separated into a private area. That party had a buffet set up for the reception and then the light-up dance floor in the middle of the restaurant. -Hope this helps.

Quote: Originally Posted by FutureMrsRobart Hi ladies, Matt from Del Sol was nice enough to send me this link of a wedding that he recently shot at DRC. He mentioned that the bride is a fellow forum member so you may have already seen some of the shots if she posted them. I hadn't so I thought that I would share them here also just in case I wasn't the only one. I know we all love being able to see new pics that give us a fresh perspective of what the weddings are actually like since many of us haven't had the opportunity to do a site visit. Looks like she had an amazing day and the shots that he took were beautiful! 05.15.10 Margaret + Matthew | Wedding at Dreams Riviera Cancun | Photos by Matt Adcock Melissa Thanks for posting!!

Quote: Originally Posted by mindylcarter Our wedding is 10/4/10. I have seen pics of the beach, gazebo, and "rain" locations...my fiance does not want to be married on the beach. I do not like the design on the gazebo and it seems from the reviews that it can lack privacy. I have liked the photos of the 'rain location' best...it is the terrace in front of one of the clubs. It seems very quiet and private, and I liked the look of the pergola. I am wondering if Ana will have a problem with us choosing this as our location even if it is not raining? For those who have been here, am I missing something with regard to the drawbacks of the terrace for a wedding? I am really hoping they have a garden location available by the time we get there, as that is what we would really prefer, but I'm not holding my breath on that one. Thanks for any input! The terrace is the most private location (I think). I'm sure Ana will be fine with you using the terrace even if it's not raining. When I was there in May, I saw a wedding on the terrace. I guess the 'drawback' is that there is no view of the ocean from up there. So the surrounding atmosphere isn't as scenic as the outdoor locations. However, the terrace is covered overhead - so much less windy as well. How many guests will you have? If you have a small group (I guess around 30), you could probably have your ceremony set up in the garden. The terrace can accommodate more people.

Quote: Originally Posted by cindyshininger We used the DJ that Ana suggested. Ana usually suggests either DJ Doremixx or DJ Mannia. Do know which one you hired? Thanks!

Quote: Originally Posted by cindyshininger From the MOB point of view. Ana makes it all come together once you are there. We met with her the day before and she gives you all the time you need with her. She has a check list and does everything you want. We mixed and matched the menu together. We had the chicken entree, which was amazing! All the food was teriffic. The cake on the other hand is pretty ugly. We knew it was going to be white, but it was not good. I took my flowers apart and decorated the cake for pictures. That made it alot better. SO take your own. Our guest did not eat it,even though it was delicious, because the meal was real filling. We had the reception in the Aisian restaurant, which worked out perfect for us with the air conditioning. It is windy and hot on the beach, but it was sure gorgeous for the ones that want it outdoors. We took our own chair sashes and they were put on with no problem. We also took fushia napkins and maracas. The tables were set up just as we asked. You really do not need to take table decorations, they supplied glass vases with candles and rose petals in and around the vases. JUST BEAUTIFUL! No need to carry all kinds of extras, Ana takes care of it all. The flowers were exactly what we wanted. BUT, the extra bouquets were $60 each and while they are beautiful, they only had them in hand for the ceremony and a few pictures. I would have brought artificial from home knowing what I know now for the bridesmaids. The music is one thing I was not happy with. We ended up going with the DJ, at $300 an HOUR, not included taxes. They only introduced the bride and groom, PERIOD. They never talked the rest of the night. Cake cutting, dances etc. We were worried about a guest having to mess with the ipod, but this was an expense that was not necessary. We had songs on the ipod that we wanted at certain times. They would start one and we knew who was suppose to dance to that song. They just sat there. They did play good music, but for $1000, you can spend a little bit of time and put them on your own ipod. Pictures were awesome. We had Juankarlos,(sp) from the resort. He did engagement, wedding and trash the dress a few days later. We bought everything. The package included 50, but there was absolutely no way to pick just 50. Just let him do his thing and you will be extremely happy. We had the wedding on the beach. The gazebo is right next to the pool and everyone is right there while you are getting married. Not for us, but they were beautiful. Don't forget they are on Mexican time. The wedding was scheduled for 6:30 and it started around 7:15. So don't be alarmed, it all works out. Which DJ did you use?

Quote: Originally Posted by AlisonJimmy If anyone is getting the ultimate package, have you heard anything about getting the groom a free room the night before the wedding. The hotel told my TA this would have to be decided closer to the wedding. But that is crazy. Is anyone else having this issue? Yes - that is the same info I have. The free room for the groom is based on room availability at the hotel, which is why they won't guarantee it until closer to your wedding date.

Thanks for the review Erica! Was it super windy during your ceremony and/or reception? So glad everything turned out well for you. Can't wait to see your pictures.

Quote: Originally Posted by Princess402 Allegra - what is your colour scheme? I know we talked a bit before about the possibility of sharing some things since our weddings are so close together... My main colours are going to be royal blue and aqua, with accents of yellow/orange and maybe green and pink (bright colours). I'm definitely thinking of bringing down overlays and chair sashes, and maybe also centerpieces and gazebo fabric. Hey Angela - My colors aren't 100% yet, as I am still making my final decisions on bridesmaid dresses - BUT - it's looking like royal blue/aqua/teal-ish family, bright orange flowers, and some accents of purple - and maybe green. What color are you thinking for chair sashes? Also - how many guests are you expecting? If we can find some things to share, I'm willing!

Quote: Originally Posted by ddemayo HAHA that is too funny! i didn't even realize it.....Nah not having anything back here, we have about 100 people going, 75 already booked. so that is enough for us! Are you having something back here?? I know a lot of people who that, so it it is very common. I didn't think the $393 was that bad for 3 nights considering it includes your food and drinks......just because we have a very big drinking crowd so they will drink about $300 dollars worth a day.....so this is a major deal for them!!! A lot of them are bartenders.....so this is a treat to them and the staff is going to love this crowd cause they are major tippers I think we are going to have about the same # of people. What are you doing about music? ipod? dj? band? thanks, Allegra

Quote: Originally Posted by SDbeachgirl I'm sorry you had so many bad experiences. I have to say that I experienced the same thing with the rehearsal. Mine, luckily, was the day before the wedding, but I had scheduled massage appts for the bridesmaids and myself. We were late to the appointments because Ana was late. That made me mad, because instead of taking our time at the spa and getting in our robes and lounging around with cucumber water...they took us straight to the rooms. It was just really poor planning. And Ana didn't really explain much at the rehearsal. Just a note to those planning a rehearsal, you may want to choose something later than 9am. Apparently Ana does not get there that early. I would try for 10am or 11am. Thanks so much for all your advice and feedback!! I'm thinking the day before (at least) the actual wedding will be best for planning the rehearsal. I feel like adding ANY additional meetings, etc the morning of is risky...especially when nerves and excitement are already at a peak.

What is Yasmin's e-mail address?

Quote: Originally Posted by Princess402 Thanks Allegra Yes, I'm sure you'll see me in it both on my wedding day and for my TTD! I'll be parading around in it as much as possible, lol. We are having our ceremony on the beach and reception on the pool deck. To be honest, I wish I could use the gazebo for the ceremony, but I just hate how public the location is! Where are you thinking for yours? Our ceremony is currently scheduled for 3pm. I keep wondering if I should move it up a little, considering how early sunset is that time of year, but I also don't want a huge gap between the ceremony and reception. I think if we get started on time (fingers crossed) we should be okay. It's just that I'm bringing my fab photographer so I don't want the light to fade before we get all the shots I want! Lol, I think FI is going to die with all the pics I want taken... I'm not sure yet where our ceremony is going to be. I kind of want to do the beach because it's a bit more private than the gazebo....but then there is the shoe issue. I imagine you have to wear flat/sandals/flip flops if you do the beach?? My mom actually WANTS us to do the ceremony on the terrace (back up location) because that's the most private. But FI and I want to be near the water.....so it's currently up in the air and a disagreement.

Ashly - Thank you SO much for your review. All this info is very helpful. I agree about Ana - once you are at the resort, she (and Yasmin) are always available and responsive. But there are some things that really need to be planned (or at least reserved) before you head down there (ex. reserving a DJ, etc). Angela - I think you are understanding the hour thing correctly. I imagine the 3 hours that are included begin as soon as your reception starts. Any additional hours for open bar or music will be extra. As Laura mentioned, this is best to work out and arrange with Ana ahead of time - or else she might say no. The extra hours of open bar should be negotiable in price, I imagine - I'm sure there will be some charge though.

Quote: Originally Posted by Princess402 Aww Kriztie that's so great that you still love it so much!!! Half the reason I put off dress shopping for so long was because I was afraid I would find something early and then change my mind later, and I can barely afford to be a one dress bride let alone two, or three! Now it is too late to change my mind! I can't wait to put mine on again when it comes in and hopefully fall in love with it all over again too Congrats on the dress Angela. Very exciting! Looking forward to seeing you in it :-) We're arriving on 12/7.... so I might get a peek as you're hanging around the resort. Where are you having your ceremony and reception?

Quote: Originally Posted by lilly129 I have a question...I've completely given up on getting responses from Ana...so I started emailing DecoCacun and Ana there has been super super helpful. She has the perfect linens and great decor for the reception and cocktail hour and of course it's half the price of what the resort is quoting...So I totally want to use them Is anyone else using DecoCancun for decor/table linens at DRC Is there an outside vendor fee or something I'm going to end up paying for this?? We haven't officially booked her yet, but I am planning to use DecoCancun also! I believe there will be a resort fee to bring her in. Assuming they only charge for Ana (from DecoCancun), I think the fee is around $80. I'd make sure - because they might charge for each person she brings with her to help set up. She might even know the answer to that. If you find out, could you let me know? -Allegra

Quote: Originally Posted by ebernard4985 For those of you who have already stayed at the resort.... is it true that the beach bar closes pretty early? I was hoping to have my guests hang out here while we take pictures instead of paying the extra money for the cocktail hour. Also, I read on trip advisor ( i know, i need to stay off that site ) that there are armed military patrolling the beach at night, and you are not allowed to walk around the resort after dark.... how accurate is this? I know my family members were hoping to swim at night... is this not allowed When I was there recently, I noticed that no one was swimming at night and I thought that was strange because the pools are really pretty at night - and I KNOW some of our guests might want to jump in the pool after dark. I asked one of the staff members about it and he said the pools close at 10pm (I think) because that's when they start doing chemical treatments to the water. Not sure if this is every day, all year, etc - but that's what he told me. You might want to check with another staff member and see if you get the same answer. I'm interested to know also.

Quote: Originally Posted by jennyandmatt Do you have any suggestions for the wedding location? I'm hoping for the beach but haven't been able to confirm this with Ana yet. Also, do you know what the options are for reception locations? I'm so relieved to hear what you said about how busy Ana is.....I was starting to worry that I haven't heard back from her in so long! How many guests are you expecting?

Quote: Originally Posted by JD Hall Wedding Does anyone have pics of the rooms, I am going back and forth between the preferred club ocean view or the honeymoon suite. Unless you are thinking of upgrading to the Master Suite - I'd stick with the preferred club Ocean View room. The Honeymoon suite isn't any (or much) bigger than the preferred club Ocean View room - the biggest difference is that it's ocean front. But the room size is the same. I don't know what the cost difference is, but it's likely not worth it - unless being Ocean Front is really important to you. Both rooms have a jacuzzi outside on the deck. The Master Suite is in a totally different class, and it's super nice. And it seems twice the size of the other two room types mentioned. Hope this helps.

SDBeachgirl - Congrats on your wedding!! Sounds like the major things were fine and that you dealt very well with the other stuff that didn't go perfectly. I think that's what we all need to keep in mind and try to do as well. Which resort did ya'll go to for your honeymoon (that you didn't like as much as DRC)? Thanks so much for your review. Allegra

Quote: Originally Posted by t1219 SDBeachgirl Congrats!!! Thank you for the review! Can't wait to see your photos:) Girls sorry if someone has answered this before....Has Ana given a price to anyone on real flower petals? I would like my aisle covered with them and want to get a cost. Thanks! The price I have for flower petals (for the aisle) is $22 per bag. I'm not sure if that includes taxes or not. Ana suggests 15 bags if you want the aisle completely covered.

Hi Girls, I just got back from a site visit and the resort is beautiful. I think everyone will be happy. I met Ana and Yazmin and wanted to let ya'll know that they basically are working non-stop round-the-clock on all these weddings. They were very helpful and friendly - and constantly meeting with brides, prospective brides, families, etc. Yazmin told me that sometimes they get 250 e-mails a DAY! Seeing them run around...now I understand why it sometimes takes a while for them to respond to e-mails. They are both super sweet and they are working really hard. They also told me the management is seriously considering hiring ANOTHER person to help them. The more management hears from us, I'm sure that can only help the cause. I saw several weddings while I was there, and everyone seemed like they had a great time. Hopefully we'll hear more specifically from recent brides soon. Anyway - if there are any specific questions I can help answer, I'll try. There were a few check-in and check-out issues, but we dealt with them relatively quickly and basically, our trip was great. If you use conditioner, bring some with you - the resort (at least the room I was in) only provides shampoo. The staff is great, food is good (didn't hear of anyone getting sick), and it's just beautiful and relaxing there.

Quote: Originally Posted by Meggan Hi Ladies, I could use some advice. We're trying to book an April 2011 wedding and are still waiting for the DRC wedding coordinator to even acknowledge our request. Its been 2-3 weeks and I'm starting to think that this resort doesn't want my business. I'm tempted to switch to Dreams Tulum because the wedding coordinator there emailed my TA back immediately when we were considering both. How are you all dealing with these delays? Advice on 'switching' to a seemingly more responsive location? Thanks! Meggan You should try asking your TA to call Ana directly. That seems to get a much quicker response when you need an immediate answer about something.

Quote: Originally Posted by ebernard4985 I received 2 emails from Ana yesterday.... within minutes of emailing her!!! Maybe it was a fluke, but I was very surprised by it! I wanted to substitute the Mexican trio for the iPOD speakers, however, that is not possible. Ana told me the only substitution they are allowed to do now is flower changes. For example, I am getting 3 bridesmaid bouquets instead of table arrangements because I have my own centerpieces. I have decided to keep my decorations very simple. I was going to do chair sashes, but then decided that it will look great regardless because of the setting so I did not want to stress myself out over who would put them on the chairs. I also thought that having the overlays would be enough at the reception, so I will not be doing chair sashes there either. I received some new pictures from Ana.... one of which I believe is possibly Carina from this forum She also sent me the link to Juan Nevarra's blog, and he still is taking pictures for Dreams. Maybe he is only doing the weddings that were confirmed before the switch to Adventure photos?? I am not sure, but his pictures look really great. Juan Navarros Blog Blog Nina & Yordan <http://web.mac.com/vallarta_adventures/WeddingsDRERC/ARI&CARINAWEDDING/>Ari & Carina Kelly & Patrick Nelli & Ivica Thanks for posting! Glad you are hearing from Ana.

Quote: Originally Posted by noonie brides, please be patient with ana, you have no idea how many emails she gets daily. my wedding is in 2 weeks at dreams, she has been nothing but good to me, answered all my questions, done everything to acommodate me, and the closer you get to your date, the sooner she gives answers, as she is dealing with the weddings that are next. i understand being frustrated & scared at not getting responses, but she will take care of everything in time, dont stress. this resort sounds amazing, i am getting everything i wanted & asked for & my total bill for the wedding is under what i had anticipated. if you have questions, feel free to ask me, i would love to help, as i am further along the path then lots of you. also, if you want to email me, i can take a list of questions with me & get answers from ana when i am there in 2 weeks & i will gladly email you when i return. i will also post details of my wedding, so any questions, send my way. or if you have anything you would like me to take pictures of, i will gladly do so. dont stress, everything will be perfect & will be taken care of:) wedding april 28, 2010 SO EXCITED!!!!!!!!!!!! stephanie: [email protected] Very much looking forward to your feedback/reviews!! Hope you have a fabulous wedding. Please update us when you get back! Thanks for your supportive advice.