Dominican Ally

I agree! I am all about sales, and getting things for a deal - so I'll be keeping my eyes open! Happy Planning/Shopping!

I know~! It seems there are glitches sometimes, so lets hope it goes smoothly I'm excited to start DIY projects!

I actually haven't stumbled across this yet - thanks for sharing, I'll check it out!

Now you're scaring me! lol. Maybe I shouldn't send out so many invites? We were basically going to send out STD's to everyone that we would invite to an AHR after, thinking most people won't come. Maybe I should just limit the STDs to immediate family and close friends.... It's great to have such a large turnout, but at the same time - if I had that many people, there is no way I can afford OOT bags for everyone, excursions, etc. Maybe if I set an absolute deadline to book by, etc....then extra people can't just book last minute.

I keep going back and forth on this too. I don't like watching myself on video - it makes me uncomfortable....but I think in the end I will want that memory and keepsake of the big day...will be nice for kids/grandkids to watch some day.

(I mean that he gets 30 minutes of highlights....not that I only spend 30 minutes....my wording is off, I'm tired!)

Oh my FI has been complaining too! He says he feels bombarded by wedding stuff! Ummmmmm what he doesn't understand is that I am literally spending hours researching, budgeting, and planning our day - while he gets the "highlight reel" wrap up of what I've accomplished in like 30 minutes each day. He also keeps asking if I'm "ok" while I am on the computer (because I'm being quiet/focused)....it's hilarious

I love your video - I'm considering HDC as well. I am torn as to whether or not I want a video - I hate video recordings of myself, but I think a video would be nice for those who couldn't attend - and obviously nice to have down the road to share with our children, etc. Your video was so beautiful, I love the song, and honestly it brought tears to my eyes! Thanks for sharing!

Thank you so much for sending! Don't know what I would do without all of you ladies, and this forum. I am just in the beginning stages of all of this, and already it has helped me soooo much!

Hang in there! If this hotel is your dream, then it's going to be beautiful! I'm sure if you just keep records of all of your conversations, get everything in writing - you'll be fine

I'm getting there, but I must say that this forum has basically consumed the last week of my life in order to get to where I am - lol! There is so much great info on here though, and I totally can't wait to download the templates from the DIY sections

I am from Eastern Ontario, but lived in Alberta for 5 years! The first time I experienced -50 with the windchill, I think I cried! (and the tears probably froze in my eyes...lol) I did enjoy the fact that there was no humidity out West, but it doesn't make up for the crazy winters in Edmonton!

I was looking at Caribbean Emotions, and possibly HDC as well. Do you have a pricelist for HDC? If so, could you email to [email protected]? Thanks! And congrats on the wedding being in 5 weeks! I'm jealous

I think that if it is what suits you and your family, then it will be perfect

These bouquets are GORGEOUS! Such a cool idea!

There are some great ideas on here! I think I'm going to start looking and purchasing well ahead of time - I'm getting married April 2013. I especially love the passport holders, and personalized towels, etc.

I chose a destination wedding for a few reasons... 1) If I'm honest with myself, I have always pictured my wedding day on a beach. 2) I have a HUGE family and guest list, so if I had a wedding here, it would cost a small fortune due to the numbers. 3) I went to a bridal show, and was utterly and completely overwhelmed. If anything, it confirmed my decision to run away to get married! 4) I've heard so many brides who had the huge, traditional weddings here, say that if they could do it all over again, they'd have a destination wedding. We will likely still have 20-40 of our close friends and family attending with us. I feel like I can still have many traditional elements to my wedding, but it will be considerably cheaper, more intimate, and overall a great experience (I hope). Bottom line is that this is YOUR day, so do what makes you happy!

Ooh - Cigar roller! I might be interested in that. Can you email the info to [email protected]? Thanks!

Perfect! Thank you for the reply. I just wanted to make sure there wasn`t some crazy outside vendor fee, like some other resorts (which I`ve seen as high as 350!). I have no issues with the resort photographer`s photos, but I don`t like the packages and prices. I feel I can get more for my money with bringing a local photog in and paying the $50.00 fee.

I've done up a budget, and including hotel/airfare, dress, rings, grooms attire, bouquets/boutiniers for 8 attendants, some minimal extra wedding decor, wedding package, legal fees, document translation, OOT bags, invites, STDs, etc. we are at about 12k for 30 guests.

I feel the same way - I love everyone's "fur babies" - they are super cute. My FI refuses to let me have any more puppies...I love my two, but every once in a while, have the urge to have a "baby" again...lol. I must say however, that I am happy I got two brothers at the same time - they have soooo much fun together and are so entertaining to watch. Love your dogs - so cute!

Thanks I like to think so! Also glad to see many other brides who love their adorable pets as much as I do!

I'm sure she was just stressed - she is lucky to have you! I would welcome help from my Mother for the planning

This is a tough spot, but I totally see where you are coming from. I don't see why your mom's friends would get preferential treatment over the other guests - and on top of that, I think its nuts for her to want to pay for anyone's rooms!

Here are my boys...Chip and Titan (Shorkies) They are so precious/fun/amazing! lol. I want to incorporate a pic of them or something special for my wedding day.