RPTB -- Need some wedding advice!

[jdubcincy]

Hi Everyone!

 

I am getting married in June 2012 and am planning to have my wedding at the RPTB.  We chose Negril over Montego Bay because of the beautiful beaches and can't wait for our wedding!

 

I'm having a VERY hard time getting everything booked through RPTB.  The WC is very nice and cordial, but very slow. 

 

My biggest concern is around the reception.  It's very important for us to have a private reception, but the prices are very expensive ($100pp for food/drink, plus cost of setting up tent, chairs, band, etc on the beach).

 

What experiences have you had with private receptions at RPTB?  Were they willing to negotiate with you on price?

 

I'm getting nervous that if they are this slow at responding, they won't have their act together on our big day -- is this the case or do I just need to relax and get used to the laid back Jamaican lifestyle???

 

I'm starting to think I need to explore other options; my next choice would be Iberostar Montego Bay...I've never been to Jamaica so I'm going solely off other people's advice...

 

Thanks so much in advance for any advice you can offer!!

[Leah22]

Hi!  I understand your dilemma.  I’ve never been to the Riu in Negril (I assume that’s what you’re referring to), but I have visited a few other Riu resorts and the Iberostar is by far better.  I’ve been to Jamaica a couple of times and I have friends from the island.  I looked at many hotels (on multiple islands).  If you want an all-inclusive resort, then I think Iberostar is the way to go (just my opinion). 

 

I’m getting married in June at the Iberostar Grand, but I also considered the Iberostar Suites, so I’ve been in contact with both wedding coordinators.  The Suites may be more affordable.  You pay $18pp over the first 8 people.  And then a private reception is a flat fee of around $875 (you need a minimum of 30 people, and I think it’s only up to 80 people).  At the Grand you pay $20pp over the first 10 people, but a private reception varies based on the number of people.  30-50 people is $1750.  51-75 is $2600.  76-99 is $3500.  100-150 people is $5250.  The Grand does have a “free package†which is very basic and only includes the marriage services, ceremony setup and arch, cake, champagne toast, bouquet, and boutonniere, and the reception dinner for up to 10 people (no other decorations). 

 

Both wedding coordinators are slow, but responsive.  They always get back to me within a day or two. 

 

Good luck!