Hi Ladies! I have gotten some great information on here so far in regards to planning my May 2012 wedding...However, I just got off the phone with my Beaches WC, Monica, and honestly my head is spinning! Originally we were going to do the most simple wedding down in T&C with family and friends and then have an AHR. We decided yesterday that we don't want to go through all the extra planning of an AHR and extra expense of course, and would like to have a private reception for the guests that join us in T&C... Here's my issue: My fiance's family is gigantic! LOL and they also have some money, so alot of the aunts and uncles are planning on coming to the wedding...this is good, but the guest list is adding up quickly...and with this, so is the extra costs associated with the private reception...so I am trying to figure out what things I can keep out of the wedding and reception to save some money, but not skimp on our guests. Here's my questions: (in relation to each aspect of the day ) Pre-wedding, getting ready, spa, etc... 1. Did anyone choose one of the spa packages like "Bridal Bliss"? or did you just do hair and makeup? And if you did choose a package, did you like what it included and felt it was worth the $250? 2. Did anyone have the Beaches photography crew come and photograph you getting ready with your mom and the bridal party? If you did, how did the pictures turn out? 3. Did any of the men have any spa services day of the wedding or before the wedding? Ceremony... 1. The arch is NOT included in Beautiful Beginnings...did anyone that got married on the beach not have an arch at all? What were your thoughts on this? I can't see paying $350+ for an arch that we are standing under for 15-20 minutes... 2. Pre-recorded music...I heard you can bring your Ipod with the music you would like...is there any cost associated with actually PLAYING the music on your Ipod? 3. Did you have a bouquet for your maid of honor, bridesmaids? Boutonniere for the best man?? My ceremony is going to be more on the casual side... After ceremony... 1. Did they take pictures right away or did you go immediately into your private reception?? (just trying to get an idea of time-line) Reception... 1. ONE decorated table is included...this will seat 8 people....we will need 4 more tables to accomodate our group. I was told that the additional tables will come with no decorations, only the white linens, if I would like the matching decorations it will cost $100 each table....for the BB package, the only decorations are a doile, clear vase and my orchids in the vase...again, can't see spending the extra $100 per table for that little bit...what are your thoughts? Or experiences on the tables being bare? It's only 2 hrs that we are doing the reception! 2. Food choices....they all look so good! I am able to pick 2 entrees because I will have more than 15 guests...what was good??? 3. Did you have a DJ? Live music? Do you need any of that?? Thank you for anyone that decides to respond! This is hard to do sight unseen! Pics are greatly appreciated too!!!