Recent RIU Negril Bride - happy to answer any questions!

Soon2BMrsCanty · March 23, 2013

Im nervous Im torn between RIU Negril and Iberostar! Did you notice a lot of add ons for guest over the 10 included for the free packages. Im thinking of having 50 guests. I would like to do private events but, do you think its possible to get together without paying private fees? Is it hard to have a large group gather places can you make reservations for large groups. I've read a lot of reviews that say avoid "private fees". What are your thoughts?? I can say RIU seems more in my budget and they have already confirmed the date I want which is plus for me they have returned the emails much more promptly already! My real concern is my guest will only see us the day of the wedding and I want to party all week with them!!

ec121212 · March 23, 2013

congratulations!

We were honestly quite happy at the RIU. We had to pay an extra $10 per extra person we had over 10. I think the price may have gone up slightly for this year though

We also wanted to do a private reception, but found it crazyexpensive. We ended up hosting our own event on the beach for free. We brought down lanterns, an ipod with speakers and and created an area by the gazebo. I had asked the WC and she was totally fine with it, as long as the resort didn't have to do anything. As for drinks, one of friends offered to be bartender and did runs to the closest bar. We ended up scoring a dishwasher tray to lug drinks back and forth. It was sweet. We also filled up bottles with the booze from our rooms, and brought down all the beers so we had drink on site also. They allowed us to party there until 2:30 am, at which point we made our way to luigis for late night eats. It was all so easy, I highly recommend it. We did have friends decorate for us too...

It was very easy for all 45 of us to gather on the beach. By the pools may be more difficult, but further down the beach it was empty. We went in December though, I would guess it depends on the time of year.

i'm not sure what these "private fees" might be. I can only guess doing a private reception. If so, I would agree. We saw a beach wedding set up the following night and it got rained out before it even started. I felt so bad.

Oh, also - the disco is dark and dank... we did not want to rent it.

We saw all of our guests frequently, and everyone seemed quite happy.

I'd be happy to send you pics or provide any other info... just let me know!

happy planning!

Soon2BMrsCanty · April 5, 2013

Can I inbox you my email for pics?? I actually ended up going with Ocho Rios instead of Negril after putting my deposit down I switched a day later.. but I would still love to see your ideas!!