angelajackson

Thank you for the advise and yes we do agree it would be ideal and our preference to stay with the same tour supplier. My TA did confirm that the supplier she is using is a preferred supplier to her Travel Brokerage. Unfortunately I did not do more due diligence earlier on in the booking procedure as my TA also informed me of the competing suppliers being less desirable for group bookings, which I later found out is just not the case. As the client I did not limit her search to one supplier, rather asked for the best rate. We are in the process of mitigating what is of better value to our guests regarding the penalties. I will have to refer to early paperwork to determine the penalties when I get home from work. My head has become rather clustered since September leaving me at a slight loss of memory or too overwhelmed to process. At any rate, the goal is to have our special day with our friends and family next May and sincerely hope we do!

Thanks @@kmk2016 your sentiments are truly appreciated. We have had our guests print off their online package quotes proving the cheaper price, and will have them also seek rates from their own TA today. I agree, a price match is definitely warranted, however at this stage of the game we would rather go with a new TA who undeniably wants our business by providing rates and terms that are in line with the Season, Country, and Property, or handle it ourselves. I should be spending my time planning the wedding, working out, and creating lasting memories.... like you! I hope your wedding at Azul is everything you dream of. I love Karisma Properties!

Need Advice on how to salvage our Destination Wedding booked at the Now Larimar and Secrets RB May 6, 2015 We are having some serious issues with our current Travel Agent who has us booked through Transat Holidays. In April of this year we contacted a TA to help us find our perfect Destination for a wedding in April or May. We asked for a group rate with a budget between $1500 - $1800 max, to the DR or Jamaica, and hopefully with a Karisma or AM Resort. We had just come from a 2 week vacation at the Generations Maya Riviera and absolutely loved the concept, however our number one priority, was an amazing beach to have a romantic wedding. We had been told the AM Resorts are equally as incredible, so we requested rates from both brands. Our TA responded by telling us there was nothing left to Dominican Republic and Jamaica would put us well over $2500. She did provide rates to the Hard Rock Cancun and it was her strong opinion that the rate at HRH Cancun was an unbelievable deal for the infamous Hard Rock Hotel. Her enthusiasm regarding the incentives was none other than highly recommending what an amazing deal it is. Additionally, she advised this deal would not be available for very long, nothing else will match it, flights accommodating a group will book up quickly leaving nothing to choose from, and the earlier we book, the better the rates. The $1800 credit per guest, the credit for 1 person’s trip for every 10 rooms booked (to a max of 3), and the wedding packages supported the added value and we reluctantly accepted the rate of $2200. We secured the booking with a deposit and began planning. We had 66 guests book and give a $150 deposit while some also upgraded air and room. Our guests agreed to terms of final payment in February 2015. We also had 6 people (2 groomsmen) find a package online to the HRH Cancun for the same dates at a lower rate, flying from their hometown, not a gateway, and our TA insisted she could not offer that rate. L My fiancé and I went for a site visit to the Hard Rock Cancun in September and knew immediately it was not where we wanted to have our wedding. While it is not a venue for us, it definitely caters to a certain market wanting more of a party and public atmosphere, and with less than 30 guests. Our vision was a private romantic beach wedding ceremony with a reception and dance outdoors, while our guests also getting a relaxing resort vacation. Sadly, this was not the case as a 10pm curfew on anything outdoors (beach, terrace, or rooftop) meant we would need to move indoors to a banquet room, and the property is more of a hotel than a resort. The costs to set up 2 locations to have a wedding past 10 pm did not fit in our budget. There were several other reasons why we were not 100% sold on the HRH Cancun for a wedding or for our guests, however I must add that the WC Glendi and hotel staff were amazing. The service is top notch! The $1800 credit is an enticing incentive; however it wasn’t of great value to us once we were not happy with the hotel. I love the Hard Rock brand and my stays at Hard Rock Panama and Hard Rock Las Vegas were amazing, but as a “play hard” vacation, not my wedding. So now onto our real issue…. While at a Wedding Trade Show in Edmonton, I ran into a few brides who informed me they are going to a Karisma or an AM Resort in April/May 2015 for rates well within our initial budget! I was very upset and knew I needed to react by doing my own due diligence. I contacted a TA that was referred to me by a trusted friend, as he specializes in Destination Weddings. His knowledge and service far exceeded my expectations while also answering my prayers that it was, and still is, possible to have our special day in the DR at the Now Larimar/Secrets RB at a reasonable rate. He also indicated that the rate at the Now Larimar should be lower than the Hard Rock Cancun and our booking of 30+rooms would be of value and embraced by the AM Resorts brand. We contacted our current agent to request a transfer of venues and to get rates for the Now Larimar in May 2015. We also asked if our guest’s deposits could be transferred. Transat agreed to transfer the deposits to the Now Larimar/Secrets RB and Hard Rock Hotel Cancun accepted a cancellation. To add to our frustration we then received rates that were not in our budget, yet again, and higher than the HRH Cancun. We received rates for Land only and Air/Land package from Calgary and Edmonton. In order for our guests to have a lower price than the HRH Cancun, they are limited to the entry level Deluxe room, but only if paid by December 22, 2014. This is 3 months earlier than our previous booking terms to Cancun and has caused grief with some of our guests. We also have had a few of our guests tell us it is better for them to book online with another airline as it is at least $500 cheaper. Sadly we may be losing guests if we are not able to secure a rate that is in line with our budget and competitive. We have asked for our TA to release the file; however she is not willing to do so without us forfeiting all the guests’ deposits totaling $9600 stating that Transat will not transfer the deposits from one agent to another, and declaring deadlines imposed by Transat to make decisions within 48 hours. We spoke with Transat and another TA who confirm that the deposits definitely can be transferred but need the consent of the booking agent. We also have been informed that in many cases Transat will refund deposits 6-7 months out from booking, if the TA provides valid reasons why, and Transat has no reason to impose unrealistic deadlines threatening to lose deposit money other than at final payment dates = typically 90 days from booking. I am having so much difficulty absorbing and processing exactly why our TA is not working with us to ensure we have our wedding and with 66+ guests? I am heartbroken, stressed, and yes angry now. I do not feel that a rate of $2452.25 per adult and $1726.25 for children aged 2, 6, & 8 in the entry level room for 1 week in May and in the Dominican is even close to our budget? Am I crazy? I ask very kindly for anyone booked at the Now Larimar for a group or wedding in April or May 2015 please personally message me to confirm they are also paying this rate. I am doing my absolute best to keep my fiancé from losing it any more than he already is, although I have agreed to his decision to seek further advise form our lawyer should we lose any deposit money or the file not be released. My nerves are shot as my relationship with the TA went from extremely positive, ecstatic, and appreciative to confused, frustrated, and disappointed. Not exactly how I expected this exciting time to turn out. Desperately seeking advice….

Awe.... you are so keen! wow, I wish I had your skills as I am desperately seeking .... not Susan, but a Fairy Godmother to help me start wedding planning from scratch! We are moving the date back to last week in May which helps, but it is still going to be a challenge. We did not like the HRH Cancun for many reasons. It is a hotel, not a resort, and we were bored of the dining choices by the 3rd day. There were some positives like the amazing photographer we hired to do a mini engagement shoot.... Vincent of Pixan! He is the highlight of our trip and we are hoping we will still be able to use him in the DR... it is yet to be determined! The staff, service, and beach were excellent, however the details that surrounded having a wedding there, ranked very low for us. It was very disheartening to say the least, which now has turned into frustration. The website and brochure photos of the hotel are amazing but in person, the same photos look very different. Room size was very small for the two of us without decorations and wedding gear. To book the suite was going to cost us a ridiculous amount for what you get. I know the HRH brand is top notch as I have stayed in HRH in Las Vegas for a week and in Panama for a week and absolutely loved them. I should have known from the lack of information from Brides on BDW that it isn't an ideal wedding venue if looking for a romantic, intimate, and affordable wedding. I think Wedding's are a new addition to their brand, and probably better suited to the newer Resorts in Punta Cana or Mayan Riviera. For us, the HRH Brand is not even a consideration for our day. They cater to a very niche market and it is not us. I am all up for a good party and celebrating, but it is "our day" and the lasting memory would have haunted us... lol! It is loud, rooms are dated, not really an area on beach or hotel for a semi-private ceremony, everything had a price attached to it and time limits to outdoor areas. There are a few more concerns and dislikes we had, but it isn't necessary to put on blast, as I know the HRH does what they are known for, very well. How is your wedding planning coming? I will take any tips, pointers, or suggestions you may have as I need all the help I can get now! lol... I am almost done my project and will have some time off... so I will be addicted to Etsy, Pinterest, BDW, and the KNOT! Thank you kindly for noticing and reaching out. It is very sweet of you and comforting! Happy Wedding Planning to you....

I would like to request Jellyfish pricing also. In a bit of a panic as we are currently moving our wedding from Hard Rock Cancun to the Now Larimar as we just could not see our day meet our vision at the HRH Cancun, so now with less than 7 months I am desperately planning from the beginning. I would love any comments or reviews on Jellyfish. angelahalbert@@gmail.com Thanks ever so much

I posted this request for information on Hard Rock Hotel Cancun three days ago and haven't heard anything.... Please if there are any past or current Brides planning a wedding at the HRH Cancun or vendors that are familiar with the resort, I would really appreciate any feedback. Thank you in advance....!!

@@jennifernoel1 there is a free trial I believe, however I opted to pay for the site for a year as I wanted my domain name to be very short and specific. I also wanted most of the upgrade options. I looked at the free sites and would've gone with the Knot however I really liked the simplicity of wedsite and to be able to add photos and Videos. Hope this helps!

I am a Hard Rock Hotel Cancun Bride getting married April 24, 2015 looking for any advice, comments, or information from previous or currently planning brides of HRH Cancun. I am planning a site visit for September 10 - 17 this year and hoping to meet with approved Vendors, decide on Ceremony and Reception Locations, and trial run the Beauty Salon for Hair and Make up. I would appreciate any personal reviews or information on: 1. Cancun Photographers - Videographers - Trash the Dress Photographer 2. Cancun Cake Maker - Macaroons 3. Cancun DJ 4. Colin Cowie Wedding Decor and an Approved Vendor Reception Decor 5. Resort Credit Experience 6. Concierge and Tour Excursion experience Thanking all in advance for any support, input, and reviews. www.lannyandangela.com

Happy to report that I have finally launched my "wed-site" and sent out my Save the Dates! I am so happy I chose to go electronically and link to a website as I can stay connected with our guests (while at work), provide Hard Rock Cancun and Travel agent details with links, and update whenever necessary! www.lannyandangela.com I have had awesome feedback from so many indicating they absolutely loved the email version of STD and having "at their fingertip" access to info and not worried about losing a card in the recycle or junk drawer... Not on purpose of course! lol

Finally finished my "Save the Date's" and "Shit Just Got Real" invites for both electronic and print. Now to finish the WEDsite for an information hub. I am worried that most guests won't "book" or put down their "deposit" to book from just receiving the STD's but I have not even started my Formal Invitations. Is it wrong to send STD's electronically with the Booking Info? I have all of it in PDF from my Travel Agent.... Additionally, is a acceptable to have my WEDsite launched "Half completed" with priority information and update over the next few weeks with the less time sensitive information .... like Bridal Party, What to pack, Events, etc...? Welcoming any advice as I would like to go live by Sunday if possible!

Pure relief and bliss to have logo (monogram) completed! Went with a simple, clean, and modern style so I can easily brand any DIY items I may attempt! lol... Now to get my WEDsite completed so I can go live with my STD's....etc!

Yes I am and she is doing an amazing job, however I would like to have a snapshot of the list and what stages they are at so I can send friendly reminders for travel payment etc... Thanks for the insight, it is much appreciated!

Does anyone have a Guest List .xls spreadsheet or temaplate specific to a Destination Wedding? Please email me a copy to angela.jackson@@Urs.com if willing to share. The majority of templates and google doc's I have found are geared towards a traditional wedding with no tracking of deposits, flights, rooms, etc... I can build a new one or make edits to exsisting one if need be. Much Appreciated....

@@Icis your logo is amazing... where did you have it made? @@Icis is it possible to view your website. I am in the process of determining whether I will use resort, pay for one, or try one of the free ones recommended on BDW.

Has anyone used their Resorts Wedding Website? I am a Hard Rock Cancun Bride and thinking of using their "wedding website" as it includes a Registry however the website samples provided do not give enough info to make a decision.

I wish I could see also... my time is valuable and I keep saying I am going to post on days off! Aaargh I will have to upgrade to supporter as I barely have time to think let alone post! love all the info on this site so well worth the $30 I will spend tonight! lol!

Great Job!

Great share! excellent Idea!

@@Moments That Matter... are you a preferred Vendor for HRH?

Congrats!

Starting my days off finally.... only to be an obsessed "poster"! Sooo trying to be disciplined and not give in to the fee!

If i don't get there today.... I'll be adding the sign up cost to the budget I want access to on here ... lol

@kardev Congrats! I too am an Alberta DW Bride but for 2015 I have an amazing TA who lives in AB and specializes in Destination Weddings. Her name is Kelsie Abrahamason of Travel Only, She is s a certified WOW Specialist for Hard Rock Hotels! She also has several Resort Specific Training that is provided to Travel Agents to become certified in their Wedding Packages. I think the last one she went down for in Mexico was the Romance Certification for Paridisus Resorts. I have only been planning for a month and I have been blown away by here. I emailed her initially requesting information, received a phone call in 5 minutes, and by 3pm in the afternoon I had quotes from my 6 choices, and 5 days later had negotiated my rates, secured booking, and gave deposit. Yesterday I received 2 emails with 9 pdf's to give to my guests when I send out STD's or to put on our wedding website. Info regarding guests flights, hotel details, credits given to guests, excursions, etc... All of the material I receive from her instructs our guests to contact her directly which is so helpful. She took a day out of her recent trip to Mexico to visit HRH Cancun and brought back samples of the Colin Cowie Wedding Collection for me to physically feel and to top it off she gratuitiously gave me a Site Visit Certificate for 4 days and 3 nights to visit the Hard Rock Hotel! I can't say enough good things about her.... If you would like her info, please PM me. Happy Planning!

60 more to go... has only been a month!

I agree getting them tailor made is an excellent option! If I cannot find Bugatchi shirts I like, we will definitely find a seamstress! Great idea. Thanks!!!