amandamarieb

Quote: Originally Posted by LAURERN1564 Hi Everyone! I am new to this so I have a lot of questions. We're planning on getting married @ Azul Sensatori May 25th, 2011. We are still waiting for our date to be confirmed. We will have over 15 rooms booked. Have any of you received discounts for travelers for booking so many rooms? I know that if we book at least 15 rooms we stay for free, but I feel like a discount should be offered to our families? Any insight would be helpful, I have nooooo idea what I am doing Thx, Lauren Congrats and welcome. Are you using a travel agent or just going through the resort? If you use a travel agent that person should be able to negotitate room rates for you. Also, make sure you are looking into all the packages available. I have 32+ rooms booked and we qualified for a lower group rate, the bride and groom stay free promotion, 20% off private events and a free cocktail reception for 50 guests. Take my advice and look into every promotion the other girls on this thread mention getting. That's what I did and now I have saved myself well over 3k. In addtion to all the incentives, I also talked the resort in letting me downgrade to the free wedding package even though I am getting married on the sky deck. (I do have to pay the $1700 for the location though). Originally when I booked the lowest category avialble if booking the sky deck was the silver package but other girls mentioned that they qualified for the free wedding package. I asked and they gave it to me.

Ok so for whatever reason my dress and the second flower options didnt show up. Here are the links if you want to take a look. Dress: Google Image Result for http://img116.imageshack.us/img116/9744/retrato1zr1.jpg That's not me btw! And here's the other flowers: Purple Summer Wedding Flowers Photo by Floral Verde LLC | WeddingWire Again, no random twigs sticking out if I go with these and also less bright green filler, more garden green. And a gold ribbon tying them all together.

Ok Ladies so I need som help deciding on flowers. i thought that I send you photos of my "look" so you can have a good idea of what else is going on. This is my dress: Here is FI and groosmen's suits: They are also wearing matching vests and sage green ties Here are the bridesmaids dresses: Bridesmaid Dresses - the source for bridesmaid dresses fashion at Mori Lee Style 268 They will be in sage green incase that didnt show up I am going to have 6 of these bouquets tied to chivalir chairs with gold bows. They will line the aisles as well: I want to have dried lilac running the aisles: I was originally going to do all white and green flowers but now think that there needs to be some more color. What do you think? To go along with the ones I've shown you, which do you think would work best given my adversion to too much color and wanting everything to feel antiquey and romantic? Here's one option. I would change a couple of thinsg...no branches out of the top and a gold ribbon. Also more garden green filler instead of bright green. Here's the other option: I would do those flowers as is. Let me know what you think.Thanks for the input ladies!

Ok ladies so I need som help. I am wishy-washy about flowers again. My theme is antique'd romance and I wanted to go simple and subtle. I was using all white flowers but now think I need more color. I am going to try and paste all the images of what I am doing, wearin, etc...will you please take a look and let me know what you think about the flower choices? Thanks! My Dress FI and Groomsmens’ suits. They’ll also have a vest and sage ties Bridemaid’s dresses Bouquet choices Location décor Sky Deck with chivalry chairs These bouquets every other row tied to chair with gold ribbon Dried lilac lining the aisles: Which ones do you think go tie everything together? Or should I stick with all white bouquets for everyone?

Ok Limdz, here's my most immediate to-do's: Get new flower quotes (I know I am crazy) Order OOT bags Finish pre wedding brochures Buy FI's ring Order wristlets and bungees Order place card frames Order first aid kits Get info from TA about emergency contact for guests Request a rehersal Make a reservation for rehersal dinner Pick out fabric for table runner Follow up woth TA about cakes Follow up with TA about reception tables and request a small table for photo booth Figure out groomsmen shoes

Quote: Originally Posted by amybermuda annnnnnnnnddddd my slideshow is up! I am obsessed!!! Amy & Mark | May 14th 2010 | Azul Beach Hotel, Puerto Morelos Mexico OMG Amy. I am literally sitting at my desk crying. So beautiful! (That and I think it's all starting to get to me...just this very moment I've become very excited about my wedding.) Congrats a thousand times. And great decision going with Claudia!

Quote: Originally Posted by amybermuda Thanks! Man I am telling you, Azul makes it easy! I did not appreciate it that until I saw what it was like to do a local wedding/AHR - I am so much more appreciative of the DW now. I always thought it was a better choice, but now I am 100% sure. It's funny that you felt the same way, Wendy. And was it Amanda telling your Mom what to wear?? I told everyone what to wear. Sorry, that was my Bride-zilla and I do not regret it! I said solid colors - no patterns - look at my Mom and Dad both in yellow - I think they looked great! And My MIL in the bright pink/purple dress looked awesome with my fushia roses. If you want soft muted colors, then that is what they have to wear! Tell your Mom she can wear that bright dress to the welcome dinner or whatever else you are planning in Mexico, but you get the final say for wedding attire!!!!! If you look at my pics, the people in patterned dresses look busy. I guess I did not really tell everyone what to wear, just my immediate family Thanks ladies. You made me feel much better about this.

Quote: Originally Posted by amybermuda Hi Ladies! Before I go back and read what's been going on, I wanted to write you to say I just had super fun AHR! It was record breaking heat and record breaking bay bridge traffic - so people were 1+ hours late getting there and we were outside in 100+ degree heat. Let me tell you... If that was my wedding I would have been a stress case. and you know what? THANK GOD I DID A DW!!! All the stress and stupid crap we encounter dealing with family and travel issues, Miami coordinators, Lomas, then going through the hotel staff - yes I know its hard - but my wedding in Mexico was stress free and carefree and awesome. Saturday solidified my destination wedding choice that much more. I mean, 1/2 my guests would have missed my ceremony had we been having a traditional wedding on Saturday. I only have a few pictures of the party - I'll do a review later once I get the better pix. Picasa Web Albums - Amy - Stateside Rec... The after party was a bit insane.... hehe Hope you all had a great weekend!! You didn't need nay justification because you did the right thing. You're wedding was beautiful but also looked like you had a good time back in MD. Honestly for it being over 100 degrees everyone looks very pulled together. I was back there last weekend and cannot same the same about the pics of me. So glad you had a good time. Looked great!

Quote: Originally Posted by taylorwd Haha, I am the EXACT same way about the sand! People thought I was crazy having a DW and not wanting to get married on the sand. I was really adamant about it. I can take it if I'm swimming or just chilling, but the thought of having it all over me and under my dress on my wedding day was more than I could bear. . ME TOO! There were a lot of things on my qualifying list for the resorts I looked at but top 3 was a ceremony not on the beach.I hate sand.I thought it was weird but you girls are making me feel better. I actually didn't want my theme to have anything to do with the beach...that was a problem when my mom chose a gauva dress. I asked her to wear a different color. She said it was fine but is complaining to everyone else about it. I know I should maybe let her wear what she wants but everyone else is in soft romantic colors. I didn't want anything tropical and then it would be all eyes on her in every picture. So I feel sort of bad but since no one is helping me with anything or asking me about the things I'm choosing, including her, I've decided to not feel bad. After all she's wearing the exact same dress just in a different color. (Green, my fav! ) Now, I just need to convey to guests that shorts are not appropriate for the ceremony.

Quote: Originally Posted by beaz2be Amanda, so sorry to hear things are so tough right now. I'm sure things will turn around soon. And I think I can speak for most of the ladies here when I say we love to listen and offer words of support/help when we can. Quote: Originally Posted by mmc1105 Yayy congrats on setting the date! I think we're doing ours at the beach too! We live in Miami, so i am used to parties and heels on the beach lol. That is awesome that he planned that for you... Soo thoughtful! Welcome! The photographer is one of the most important decisions... and I'm still trying to decide how far from my original budget I'm willing to stray. Good luck! So sorry to hear you are going through so much. I love your "so behind in life" comment, because I feel like that a lot too. I always say things like I need to go organize my life, and my friends laugh, but I'm soo serious. You and your FI probably need a date night or something to help with all the stress you've been dealing with. And you can always vent here if you need it! Quote: Originally Posted by MaggieandJay Sending good thoughts your way. i am so sorry you guys had a rough week! Hang in there! THANKS ladies! We are going to a local wine tasting night hosted by our community arts group tonight. we're bringing the baby but still should be a good mini escape.

Oh and Chong, I forgot to tell you...I know that you are planning to do your pre travel brochures soon. Vista print has 25 for free or 100 for the price of 25 on sale until the end of the month.

Oh ans ladies...i have been dreading coming on here because i knew you all were posting up a storm and it would take me forever to catch up. I am so behind in life (or so it feels) right now that I didn't want to feel bhind here to. But nevertheless I came back and I am caught up. Thanks for all of your words of encourgament on Tuesday. I needed them. It has been such a rough week. On top of all of the wedding stuff, FI got into a car accident, his family dog was put to sleep this morning and we just found out his aunt is really, really sick. So sad. All the complaining about the wedding seems silly now. (Even though there is so much to say about my TA... I can get into that at another time.) So thanks ladies for listening.

Quote: Originally Posted by amybermuda Whoever wanted to know about the wine...... I love wine - I would not call myself a wine snob - but I know a little about it and drink a lot of it. I drink $15 - $20 bottles - which I think is average. Anyhoo, the wine at the resort was GOOD. My Dad and Step mom like good wine too and they all loved it. The Sauvignon Blanc was really good - I wish I could buy it - hint of grapefruit, my fave. The pinot noir was nice and they served it at the correct temperature. I was scared they were going to do room temp/too hot. I also tried the cabernet and that was good too. We stupidly ordered special wine for our wedding from Lomas - DO NOT DO THIS!!!!! No one knew they were drinking anything different from the house wine. Waste of $$$$$!!!!!! We did drink the house sparkling wine too and it was OK, I like mine more like prosecco - so drier - but hey, they poured it like water and we must've drank 12+ bottles at our cocktail reception FI is a big wine guy actually thinking about doing it professionally...selling it...not making it. but one day I would love to make our own wine. Good to know about the champagne. Did you pay for it or did they just bring it to you? Quote: Originally Posted by chong Holy Smokes! You are having 70 people That sounds awesome. I have about 35 people... still waiting on few people. It would be fun to see how everything will work out. I only have few things put together for OOT. I still have few things to buy for OOT but I figure I will start now. My next thing to work is the pre-travel brochure. I am so not excited about it. I am so ready to be done. I don't know how people have years to plan the wedding. With my personality, this is just too much time to make decisions. No worries... I am sure everything will come together at the end Take a deep breath and start decorating the cup cakes... maybe you are done by now and relaxing!!! Thanks for the encouragement. I am going to order our OOT bags this weekend. I am having our monogram printed on the front so I've just been trying to find the cheapest option that'll allow me to digitally print the logo since it is so complicated. Do you know what you are putting in yours? Right now we are doing a custom CD, puzzle books for the beach, weekend warrior kits, custom chapsticks and a welcome letter. I would like to do more but with 70+ bags, it's a lot of money and a lot of stuff to bring. Do you have any other suggestions? Quote: Originally Posted by thefuturemrslutz AWW he is precious!! AND Baby g!!! Sorry, I think I am in the emotional, giddy stage! Leave 2 weeks from today! OMG...so exciting! Whoa Hoo. Quote: Originally Posted by Ms.H My TA looked into the free sweet package for us but found out that it does not apply to canadians at azul sensatori....but for some reason it applies at all of their other resorts which totally sucks. I think we are going with the pearl package too. I think the 40 people means they will reserve you a section of the restaurant that will seat up to 40 people. You will still need to pay for any chairs you need over the 12 they give you for your ceremony. I have Carolina too, how are you finding her? How long does it take before you hear back from her? I also have Carolina. She has been so-so. BUT leaps and bounds better than Tiffany was. Quote: Originally Posted by amcferron OK....So, 70 people!! That's a lot!! We are expecting 50+, so my question is: where are you having your reception?? Are the only options the beach or plaza zavaz?? We are doing it at Plaza Zavaz. That's actually my #1 pick. I didn't want to do it on the beach and I think it should fit my party perfectly from what I hear Quote: Originally Posted by ~Nicole~ Yes, they give you a beach towel card. You go get a fresh towel whenever you need it. Interesting. Good to know. I am going to make card holds with wrist bungees so that's great for the cards. Quote: Originally Posted by beaz2be Bigbop - re: the reception site. I knew from the get-go that the private reception was important for us and I was concerned the same way that with possibly 2 weddings/day there might be a conflict. I knew we'd want it outside but prefer NOT the beach. So, I booked Plaza Zavas when I booked my date. I wouldn't provide my deposit to Karisma until I had confirmation that I could have BOTH the ceremony date/time as well as the reception location. It took a long time to get confirmation on it and I was worried I'd lose my date entirely - but it worked out. Of course now, depending on how big our group gets, it looks like we may have to readjust our planning if we're too large for the space. But I'm not going to worry about that yet. :-) Plaza Zavaz will hold 70 people...so not sure how big your group wil be but you'll probably be fine. I am sure if you are just a couple of people over they will work with you. I had that fear about the sky deck and they told me I could have 100 ppl if I wanted. That's 20 more than the site says is allowed Quote: Originally Posted by KittenHeart I just got my Elite Banner!!! Wooo hoooo!!! CONGRATS! Quote: Originally Posted by chong Haha.. Dr. Rey! Dr. Rey from Dr. 90201?!? That's hilarious! I will definitely check it out. Just like your salon, my designer is recommending to wear a "light" spanx to smooth everything out under the dress. I will have to find something and try it on with the dress to see if it's really necessary. Thanks for the info! yeah... 2.5 months to go and I am so exhausted. I am ready to be on the beach, drinking margaritas and get married! I have so much to do and nothing is getting done this week So you all know I do PR...funny story, Dr. Rey was actually one of my first clients. He was a nightmare and I won't go into it but if anyone wants a go laugh i could tell you some hilarousn stories about him refusing to do interviews without his num-chicks (sic...sorry) BUT I can tell you that thr shapewear he put out he did in partenership with a bigtime lingerie guy and the shapewear always gets rave reviews by the women's publications. I hear it's actually great...hmmm...why am i not looking into that? Maybe i should. Quote: Originally Posted by murmel The pool rules...I didn't see any posted and don't think there will be any issues should you choose to swim late. We used our hottub plenty in the evening watching the moon, sipping a drink and listening to the live music from the adult bar. Wines....Ooooo.....so many. Mexican wines: (we had a ton to try while in Mexico, but unfortunately can't get many here) Try L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo Reserva Privada (if you can find it), or any of the Shiraz's L.A. Cetto produce. A couple of other current favorites: De Bortoli Windy Peak Pinot Noir (Australian or New Zealand). Sandalford Shiraz (Austraila) Trapiche Malbec (Argentina) Always love to try new ones! All the rooms above the main floor have a view of the ocean, just some might be a bit closer than others. And the resort is small enough that at most you might be a 4 minute walk/elevator ride to your room. The adults only section, is the furtherst from the ocean. The premium section is to the side. Honestly all the rooms are so similar, it will be amazing no matter where you stay! If you like the oceanview...go with it! Congratulations! We rented from Excellence Car rental. We had them pick us up at the resort, then got the rental car. Once we returned it, they also drove us back to the resort, no extra charge. We were driven to the Cancun office, about 20 minutes away. They were very helpful, even if the car was a bit older...but at least I wasn't worried about people breaking into the car. Plus their rates INCLUDE insurance, additional driver and 'get out of trouble' card (basically it's a card they give to tourists, so in case you get pulled over, the cop is suppose to just give you a warning and let you off the hook- but you do have to ask for the card!) I drive standard, and most of the cars seemed to be standards, so in case you need an automatic make sure to request it. Excellence Car Rental [email protected] Excellence Car Rental, cancun car rental, car rental in cancun | Mxico Welcome! And don't worry you'll start to learn really quickly We are thinking about doing our wedding reception at the beach BBQ area. Also have to tell you girls, my FI 'kidnapped' me yesterday for a Surprise Day. We both worked an early shift and then we got into the car and drove for about 2 hours! Well we checked into a lovely hotel, and went out for a great dinner. And then he lead me to a concert...to my surprise it was...Sting! (And I love Sting!) We sat in the 11th row, as Sting performed with the London Philharmonic Orchestra! Hee hee I love Surprise Day! That's the sweetest thing I have heard in awhile. FI and I need a break. Maybe I'll suggest a little stayctaion next weekend before things get even more hectic. Quote: Originally Posted by taylorwd Oh that is the sweetest!!! Ah I know, right!

Quote: Originally Posted by amybermuda Amanda, same thing happened to me with my Travel Agent. She never called anyone to ask for final payment. I sent out all emails - I started 2 months before we were leaving and told everyone that payments were due by a certain date - 45 days before they leave. I followed up with 2 more emails and then also made my TA tell me 50 days out who had not paid yet and I followed up. Yes, it was a lot of work, but my TA was extremely disorganized and she said she did not have the systems set up to remind guests when to pay. Seems like a simple service every TA has, right?! That's awesome you have saved that much money by using other brides stories and suggestions!!! That is such a testament to everyone helping each other and sharing stories! woo hoo ladies YES - 2 1/2 months very stressed = totally normal! This is when list making is your friend Jeep it by your bed so when you wake up panicking, you'll write down whatever you just remembered and get back to sleep Thanks! Good to know I am not alone but sorry you've had the same experience. Actaully this morning my FI got a call from his groomsmen who has not be charged yet and I lost it. I tried calling my TA and she wasnt in yet. Lucky for her. My mom is going to call and handle it and then I am calling my TA's supervisor. Honestly I have had it and I am far to busy to check up on her and make sure she is doing the work that she is supposed to be doing. Ahh.

Oh girls! I went away for three days and you left me with so much to read. I caught up and hit all of my multi quotes and then it didn't work. So much to say but will have to go back and do it some other time. I just got home from work and am baking cupcakes for my son's 1st birthday tomorrow. So bittersweet. The birthday, not the cupcakes:) Again, I had so much to comment on but here are the highlights: Old Bay - Glad you all love it. we put it on everything growing up in MD. Makes everything so yummy. Sky Deck - When I booked you had to book the Silver package or above and add on the Sky Deck. I have since downgraded to the Pearl Package and am still doing Sky Deck. I am trying to downgrade to free package since it is well, free, and it actually gives me more than the Pearl package does. I've sent several emails about this with no response, I am going to take Amy's advice and tomorrow I will just say that's what I want. I am done with asking. It's not like my WC or my TA ever feels the need to respond to me anyway. That brings me to my next point, I have almost 70 guests coming! You think that they would want to take care of me. But no, I have to ask my TA over and over again to call my guests back. charge them in a timely manner, book them over the phone if that's what they prefer and the list goes on and on. Amy is willing to work more for people who are nice. That makes so much sense. But also being in the service industry, I know that I wouldnt be were I am or have the clients I have if I didn't respond in a timely manner and answer the questions asked. I've told my TA that. She doesn't seem to care. Ahhh...can you sense my frustration? Chong, you are already on OOT bags? Man, I feel really behind. I have SOOO much left to do. I did. however, schedule my first dress fitting for Wednesday. How long do they usually take? Due to my very hectic schedule, I was planning on taking a slightly extended lunch and going. The dress fitter is a 5 minute drive from work. You think that will work? Chong, what else are you working on now? In terms of looking for updated packages...I really use this site as my measure. One of you girls mentions a sweet deal, I try my luck and ask for it. Sp far almost 3k saved. Hoping they will let me downgrade to free wedding package which (after adding on flowers) should be at least another $500-600 saved. I know I'll spend it elsewhere, but better than throwing it away on "extras" I will not use. In terms of negotiating, Amy you seem to be the master. I asked for a better price on the chivalri chairs but Tiffany my old WC told me that wouldn't happen. They are a must use for me so I guess I will ask,I mean tell, my new WC that I need a better price. Fingers crossed that it works. Oh there must be so much more but time to hit the hay. My weekend of flights to and from the east coast in addition to 3 parties in 3 days has got me beat. I need to wake up soon to decorate cupcakes and hopefully work out. Ah, why am I so overwhelmed all the sudden? Is this normal for brides 2 1/2 months out. AHHH! I can't believe it's that close. Deep breath. Ok ladies....good night!

Thanks ladies....well here it goes. Let me know what you think: I like the 1st one better but we'll probably use the second for chapsticks and things like that.

Ok girls...I have my monograms. Yup two of them. I want to share but not sure how to post attachments. Do you know how?

Quote: Originally Posted by daniepps My TA was notified and she notified me. I had Tiffany but now I have Fabio. Lucky girl. I hear Fabio is great. Good for you!

Wow girls..I was gone for 1.5 and half and wow was it hard to catch up. Chatty Cathy's as my mom would say. Regarding the WC's I don't know what is up but I don't think Tiffany left. I say that because the last I heard from her was right before the July 4th weekend and she told me she was off on Friday and would not be responding. I followed up with her all week the next week and nothing. Then I learned I have someone new. If she was leaving on her own and it was planned, wouldn't she say something? That and she was nearly impossible to deal with...very unorganized, never answered all of my questions, so slow to respond...so maybe they are cleaning house a bit? But will 150 brides each, they need some new planners....Amy, I think we found a way for you to work less hours! I leave tomorrow night on a red eye to Baltimore. Heading home for a weekend full of activities including my son's 1st birthday party and my bridal shower brunch. Should be a lot of fun but I am already dreading all that travel and all the events in just 3 days. Wish me luck.

Hi Ladies - I am sneaking on here at work again today so I have to keep it short. There is so much going on and I have so much to say about all of so I guess FI will just have to deal with me getting back on again tonight! I do have a couple of questions for you Meghan! I was looking at your photos on FB. Thye are just amazing. I noticed you had some small children attend. I will have 3 toddlers all between 1 and 2, one being my own little guy. I wanted to see if you or your guests used the oniste babysitting and if so, what your experience was. Anyone you really liked or could recommend? Also, how were the latterns hung up at the Zvaz plaza? I don't want to do latterns but was thinking of hanging little candle holders. Maybe something lke these: Wire and Glass 12" Juliet Hanging Candle Holder $6.99 each Do you think that would work? Thanks so much!

Quote: Originally Posted by chong Ha.. Amanda, I also have Carolina now. She seems OK. What are you doing lately? Maybe you can help me stay on track We definitely need to meet at the resort. I am flying in Wed and stay through next Fri - 10 days!!! We are going over to Cozumel for scuba diving on day trips but staying in Azul since some of our friends are also staying till Fri. Chong Thanks for sharing. I've only had Carolina for a couple of days but she is already leaps and bounds better than Tiffany. Yes we should meet while there. I'll be there Tues-Tues than FI and I are coming back and going to wine country fora few days while my moms watches our son. I think we are also going to get legally married in wine country while we are there, assuming the court house will provide witnesses for us. Quote: Originally Posted by chong Amanda... holy smokes. You are so on everything. Am I missing something? Man... I am not the best negotiator. You should share your secrets. I know you got the free cocktail party (which I couldn't really get since we booked in Nov 09)... anything else I am missing? Do you mind sharing? You can PM me if you would like. Thanks We are having about 30 guests and the towels were something we really wanted to do. We bought 32x64 Terry Velour Beach Towels with the Custom Embroidery. I paid $10 per towel + shipping. Check out this website - Discount Towels, Bath Robes, Washcloths, Fitted Sheets & Chair Covers | Buy Beach, Bath, Hand, Rally, Cotton, Wedding, Hair Salon & Golf Towels Online - if you are interested. I found my shoes too - no heels but super cute. I am so excited. I am glad you found your shoes too. That was the hardest thing for me. Our groomsmen are wearing something very simple - no suite for us Sounds like you found stuff for a great price! Chong Thanks for that but nor sure I am really that on top of everything. There's still a lot to do. My next projects are finalizing our monogram, OOT bags, pre-travel brochures, creating jewelry for bridesmaids and making custom table runners. But beyond that still so much to do...write ceremony, music, dress fittings, buy FI's ring, oh boy I am freaking myself out. Quote: Originally Posted by MaggieandJay My friends love Shoedazzle! That is awesome! I was just thinking about joining ShoeDazzle the other day. Do you like a majority of the shoes? Hopefully my monogram will be ready next week. I am waiting on my first round of options! That's so funny. People tell me that all the time. I say some times my selections are right on and then the others not so much. But I get to see all of what's avail so I am lucky. I can tell them what I want in my showroom. They are doing handbags and jewelry sets now too. The jewelry is actualy really great. Thinking I might get ShoeDazzle gift cards for my BM. because even when they aren't right on, it is a lot of fun. Quote: Originally Posted by katken Hey ladies, I'm not going to quote the message about the lanterns because I have no idea what page it's on, but here's some more info on that and Zavaz Plaza. I had the pink paper lanterns, like mentioned above they charged a $50 cash set up fee to place everything including hanging the lanterns. I think I bought 8 small, 8 medium, 4 large and 2 extra large. They didn't use all of them. The extra large ones were placed around Zavaz Plaza near palm trees on the ground. It actually looked nice. I am not a DIY'er type of girl but my awesome BM is! She put together the LED lights for me and also created a pull tab that was easy for the coordinators to pull and start they lights. I thought they looked great. Better than I expected. Here is a link to an old thread about battery operated lanterns: http://bestdestinationwedding.com/fo...anterns-47309/ Also, my BM started an etsy page to make the LED lights for lanterns! Fun For You by funforyou on Etsy Secondly, Zavaz Plaza is a good size for large groups. We initially had 72 booked before the swine flu hit, ended up with 60. Besides the beach, this was the only place large enough to accomodate our group. We love to dance and there was plenty of room. I think we had 8 tables, one sweetheart table, a bar, and the DJ and there was still plenty of dancing room. It was really hot the day of the reception, so pardon the sweaty guests: Lanterns in the background and plenty of space for dancing: That's all that I have on Photobucket. There are a lot more of us dancing, speeches and more at Zavaz Plaza in our video from Elizabeth Medina. You can just skip to the middle of the video to see photos from the reception. (It should say AZUL Sensatori on the opening slide, not El Dorado) http://www.elizabethmedinaphotography.com/KJ09/ Thanks for all the info! I wasn't planning to do lanterns. Instead, I was going to string xmas lights around the palm trees. Do you think that there will be enough light? Quote: Originally Posted by KittenHeart Welcome back Chong!!! Amanda, thank you for reminding me, I'm going to stick your stuff in the mail now. Congrats on getting so much done, I love Santey Alley! I'm heading over to Target, Banana Repbulic and J Crew today. I always think, what if Amanda is at the mall and I run into her! Thanks so much! So funny...no plans to head to head to mall today. (I am so exhausted from my Chalene Extreme work out this morning) but maybe next tim.

Ok ladies!!! Just wanted to share that I feel like I am finally getting things done. FI got his suit and 2 of the 4 groomsmen have as well. Almost everyone is booked...I think we are at 56 so just 10 or so to go! We got the groomsmen's ties today at Santey Alley in downtown LA for $6 each and they are perfect match for the BM gowns! Both in metallic sage. Yay! I also got my dad's suit today. In fact 3 piece suit, shirt, tie, belt and socks for $100. A real steal! If any of you ladies are in SoCal Santey Alley is where it's at. As some of you might already know, besides my full time jobs as bride to be and mommy to a beautiful almost 1 year old baby boy (whimper...i can't believe he's going to be 1!) I am a publicist by profession. One of my clients, ShoeDazzle.com (an online styling service which suggests shoes, handbags and accessories for you based on your fashion profile. you select one per month and it's shipped to you for $39.95 per month. it's a lot of fun) well anyway, i got my monthly selection and, gasp, I think i might be wearing my $40 shoes for the wedding. It's hilarious but hey, again, saving money and they give me like 4.5 inches and so far seem pretty comfortable. here's hoping. i've only walked around my apt in them so might have to give them a longer trial run. Also, I am getting a custom monogram made from a gal on etsy. She sent me 9 options today! 9! And they are al pretty great so I just need to figure out which one we like and go from there. I think I might ask for more than one in hi-res so I can use them for different things. If I can figure out how to post them I will. I would love all of your feedback. And those of you who told me about Carolina...you are right. She's pretty amazing. So if I can get my pre-wedding brochures done this weekend, I will feel really accomplished. Sorry for my rant. I just worked out and now I can cross that all of my list. Feels good. I hope this can continue.

Quote: Originally Posted by chong I am working on my OOT bag - so far I have beach towel (with embroidery) & hand sanitizer. Oh boy... I have a lot to do. For wedding favor - I bought maracas. I am planning to put a tag on saying "Instead of tapping on your glass, here is a system with Mexican Class. Stand and shake with all your might to see the groom kiss his bride tonight." Something I saw other brides did for their wedding and I thought it would be fun Chong Welcome back wedding day buddy! What happened? Also, sorry to hear about your car, that really stinks! I was going to do a beach towel too but with 70 guests became far too expensive. If you don't mind me asking, how much are you paying for each? So funny that you FI is from Baltimore. So am I! So many weird connections from brides on this thread. Amy F seriously lives 5 mins from me, Amy B is also from MD and Wendy is from Austin (where my fiance is from). Plus Meredith is from my fav city in the US, New Orleans. (Well besides NYC!)