I don't know what I'm doing!

[TonyandTricia]

Congratulations and welcome to the forum!! You've definitely come to the right place if you are confused!!

[vlynnw]

Congrats and welcome to the forum! You've come to the right place there is a ton of information on different areas on here. Once you figure out the country or region you are wanting to go to you can start narrowing down choices of resorts. FI and I started to narrow things down be checking expedia and trip advisor and based it on a budget we wanted to keep for our guests and the reviews of the different resorts we liked. Then from that we chose the best fit, and trust me I looked at just about every location possible. We also are planning on a May 2011 wedding to give us and our guests plenty of time to save. Good luck with your planning!

[ChristinaP]

Welcome! Don't worry, there are enough people that do know what they are doing who are more than willing to help!

Start by making a list of things you want in a resort, and choose a budget. The hardest thing about planning a DW is choosing and booking the resort. The rest is easy aas pie!

Good luck, and congratulations on your engagement!

[Mishka Designs]

Felicidades and welcome to the forum!!

[MomentsThatMatter]

One of the most important things we'd like to stress about a resort is SIZE. Resorts in the Cancun/Mayan Riviera area range from about 60 rooms to 1000.

 

~ On one hand, the smaller resorts offer close proximity to all resort amenities.

 

This can have a positive impact on the schedule of your wedding day. Smaller resort means the SPA will probably be within walking distance to your room. No time spent waiting for transportation. Your time is important as you prepare for the big day!! In addition to the preparations, the planned wedding activities (ceremony, cocktails, reception & dance) are also likely within walking distance from each other. This is a big bonus for you and your guests, especially if you have older family attending your wedding. Grandma and Grandpa are sure to appreciate a resort where they can get around on their own.

 

Aside from the wedding day, the smaller resorts are group friendly in the sense that you will find family and friends wherever you go on the resort. Consider that your guests may be coming from all over the world. You will be able to maximize your time together with friends & family that you cannot otherwise see very often.

 

We have also found they are able to accommodate your needs quicker and easier. There are fewer hotel guests and weddings for the staff to deal with, which from our experience, means they are more available when you need them.

 

~ On the other hand, larger Resorts offer more space and selection.

 

Some brides decide to go with mega resorts to give everyone countless options when it comes to restaurants, beaches, etc. The resort premises has plenty to offer. Regardless of your guests varying preferences, they are sure to find something that works for them.

 

And the obvious, space. If you decide on some alone time with your fiancé/newlywed, there is plenty of space for you two to "get away", enjoy the view, sand in your toes and just relax.

 

With regards to the wedding, since these resorts are usually 3 to 5 interconnected resorts, you will likely have more options when it comes to selecting a wedding site and reception restaurant.

[nsimpson]

LOL! Welcome to the club! You are in the right place, you'll find all the help you need here!

[Raykel]

Welcome:) I agree with everything people are saying....decide what you guys want and your budget...then talk to a TA and see what s/he can come with for options. Just remember...you want people to be able to come, but it is your day so make sure you pick someplace that you will be happy with. Good Luck and happy planning!

[Sweetpea_Mtl]

I agree with previous posts... THere are several TAs in this forum who could help out and reviews at TripAdvisor can help you narrow it down as well.

Welcome to BDWF and enjoy planning your dream DW!

[jenninjamaica]

Welcome & Congrats! The best advice I can give you is take the time to explore this site and read some reviews. There's lots of helpful information here and girls always willing to help a new bride out! Good luck and enjoy!!!!

[kwaits]

Congratulations on your engagement! I am also recently engaged and understand your dilema with choosing a location. My FI and I decided that in order to save money we are staying in the U.S and having our wedding in Key West. We will still get the tropical island feel without the expensive resorts and long travel times. Just something to keep in mind. Good Luck!