ChristinaH

This review has gotten me so excited for my site visit at LC (for our October wedding) - we leave two weeks from today!!! Great review, Julia - great pics... thank you thank you thank you. PV, here we come...

Ironically, I just stumbled across this thread today, when yesterday I just purchased a pair of fake eyelashes at Ulta. They're actually made of human hair and looked better than ones by Revlon. I can't remember the brand as of now though, but they looked really natural and full. Of course, had to buy glue to go along with it. I, too, considered the extensions but thought I'd try the fake ones first as a cheap alternative. However, I may take the suggestion to get the Mac lashes. Another suggestion for those of you obsessed with eyelashes (like myself), is to have your eyelashes tinted. I used to do this all the time - and not only is it nice if you don't want to wear mascara, you can put mascara on top of it and make a much more dramatic look. Which I may try the tinting in addition to the fake lashes.

Quote: Originally Posted by manzanita99 Can anyone recommend a place for mani/pedis in the Marina or Conchas Chinas area? I have several guests and bridesmaids who have asked me and most guests are staying at the Marriott and Westin. Any recommendations would be great, i will probably book myself and all bridesmaids if they have room available. The Marriott does have a full-service spa. Not sure about pricing, but I'm sure you could call for it. It's gorgeous though, practically brand new too - just opened last year.

Quote: Originally Posted by Pazoop Has anyone done the canopy tours while down in PV? I've heard about them but it seems like there are a lot of companies that run them. Any suggestions? Vallarta Adventures does a canopy tour in the jungle. Which my fiance and I did last September - and we loved it! Which is originally how I had found out about LC. It's quite a ride to get to the jungle, but once you leave the VA office in the marina it's well over half an hour, but so scenic and enjoyable. And the canopy is just about one of the most adventurous things to do - very cool. You won't be disappointed.

I have banned beef most of my life - as well as any meat/fish/poultry for that matter. Started in high school, and then again as a young adult. However, I read the book "Skinny B!tch" last summer and it references the beef industry, as well as the chicken/egg/dairy practices, and have taken up my vegetarian ways again. The book is a push for veganism, however, I have my limitations. I do restrict my dairy intake, but it's hard to eliminate altogether. The book has quite the marketing ploy, but really does have a good message of being healthy - eating and living healthy. There are so many books about the beef industry. However, just reading the little bit that I did sold me on the practice of not eating beef. It actually made me cry - the things that happen to some of the animals is just absolutely horrific. Truly was an eye opener, as well as educational.

So I bought Ann's JCrew Vivian dress as a back-up - which I received just yesterday. BUT my REAL dress arrived today and I can't get over the fact that I got it... I'm in love... It's Pronovias, dupioni silk... the pics were taken with my cameraphone. I had tried it on in the bridal shop, but not until afterwards did I see the large price tag on it. So I did a little research on ebay and found it - however in a size 4. Even if I starved from now until October, that wouldn't fit me. So I went out on a limb to email the posting - which turns out to be a dress shop owner in CA - and ask if she had the dress in my size. Yes, she did! And long story, longer... it arrived today... hopefully these pictures will post... I'm trying here. The pics don't even do it justice... Having some posting difficulties... and may I take this chance to thank Ann - for the dress, her guidance, her advice - not just to me but to all of the posts I've read of hers even from back-in-the-day when she was just engaged... I can't thank you enough. If it weren't for you, Ann, I wouldn't even be on this forum - from which I have learned so much. THANK YOU, ANN!!! Okay - I'll keep trying to post my pics... I suck at this. Attachment 1609 Okay - I had to put it in a Word doc. See if that works. dress.doc

I truly am confused by all the points thing. And after reading all about the thieving and whatnot, I'm further confused. I think I got the shopping thing but I don't even know where to go... Perhaps I need to spend more time on here - ha ha ha... I read it enough just the type to sit back and observe more than participate. Because believe me, I read plenty during work. More postings I guess... I WANT POINTS, TOO! I just don't know why... yet.

Congratulations, Lisa! Puerto Vallarta has to be one of my favorite places and I can't wait to get there in April for my site visit at Las Caletas. Your details are encouraging and you can never be too long on details - especially when it comes to PV. Can't wait to hear more as you go along in your planning process.

Quote: Originally Posted by SarahL On our wedding invitations, we put "Beach Dressy - Shoes Optional" for the dress code. We went barefoot for the ceremony, but had some "Just Married" flip flops to wear later. I kicked the flip flops off at the top of the stairs, just before I got to the spot where people could see me. Nicole left both of our flipflops under our table at dinner. It worked out great. There is NO WAY I could have worn heels!!! In the sand OR on the stairs. I'd have been on my butt in 2.3 seconds. I went to the Bridal Expo in Dallas this weekend and ordered flipflops from them: Anadia T. ? flip flops, home decor, fashion accessories, virtuous style They're white with a fleur de lis (in rhinestones) on the top. Super cute! We're having a fleur de lis theme.

Quote: Originally Posted by SarahL Hi Christina! That's fantastic that you already got your contract... I wish that had happened for me! I am here to "eat humble pie" as promised above and say that everything with the Marriott went really well! Rosario sent us a fruit basket when we arrived, and the party went off without a hitch. The service was excellent, the location perfect, and the food was very good. I would not have chosen the decorations, necessarily... wooden cacti and saddles... a bit tacky but honestly it was not a big deal at all. I think that the natural setting is beautiful enough without all that, though... but I was glad that I got the tiki torches and palm tree lights because those looked really cool. We had a beautiful suite and all of our guests seemed happy with their rooms, particularly after they talked to some of the other guests who decided to stay at other hotels with less comfortable beds. Love that Marriott bed! Overall, we had a wonderful week... but the stress leading up to the trip was very difficult for me. I would say that if the events department is responsive to you and willing to give you a contract in advance, rather than waiting until 2 weeks before the event to send it (and 3 days before you leave to finalize it)... go for it. I don't think I would have wanted to have my wedding there (Las Caletas was IDEAL), but it was great for the welcome party and wonderful for our stay. We were very comfortable and had a terrific week! Welcome back and CONGRATULATIONS! Plus, I'm really glad the Marriott came through for you. It's such a beautiful property, good location; I could go on. But even better that they treated you and your guests with the respect and hospitality that you deserve for your very special day. I don't think we're going to be doing any other events with the hotel (other than hanging around the pool and hotel bar), but we have dinners planned for Barcelona (WD) and a Sunday brunch at the Marina Vallarta Club across the street from the Marriott. Still debating on doing a football party on Sunday night at the hotel, but we have time to plan that if we want. Either way, the Marriott has the sports bar. I'm excited thinking about it - even better that I don't have to wait until October to get there. We're doing a site visit at LC in April! Woohoo!

So I wrote this whole dissertation about my food battles, buhlemia, yo-yo weight, being lazy, eating, working-out, etc. and it timed out on me and lost it all... Basically, can I be in the club too I have got to lose this pre-wedding weight and need some motivation. Cuz I am a FAT COW!

Wow - it looks great on you! I think I tried that one on, too - but I'm starting to think I've tried them all on. ha! It really is beautiful on you - great for your great figure!

Quote: Originally Posted by AnnR I know I've seen his name on here a ton ... have you tried searching for his name? Here are some that pop up when I do a search on "Aceves" ... http://bestdestinationwedding.com/forum/t8704 http://bestdestinationwedding.com/forum/t5456 http://bestdestinationwedding.com/forum/t3562 http://bestdestinationwedding.com/forum/t6069 Perfect! I knew I could count on you, Ann. Very helpful info regarding the photographer. We're calling him this week.

Quote: Originally Posted by michelle08 Thanks Jen!! and everyone else! Thanks for the kind words about dieting...but looking good in the dress and looking good in a swim suit are two completely different things..so I have a lot more work to do.. I understand what you are going through completely! They do all start looking the same and the process was not fun for me at all! That is why it's such a good feeling to say I LOVE my dress! The maker is San Patrick who is also Pronovia I guess? I never could find it online anywhere...I guess because it was being discontinued... Well, that makes sense that it's a San Patrick/Pronovias. Every time I try something on, I go back to that line of dresses - especially in the dupioni silk. The search continues for me... Again, congratulations on finding THE ONE!

That dress is amazing on you and very similar to something I tried on yesterday. But I swear they're all starting to look alike though. If you don't mind me asking, what is the maker of that dress? Just curious because of the discontinued issue you ran into. I am really tired of trying on dresses. It's supposed to be the most fun part of the planning process and it's making me the craziest!

Congratulations and welcome to the forum! So much information here that give you good advice, as well as help you make good general wedding planning decisions. Puerto Vallarta is one of my favorite places - still somewhat primitive, but very conducive to the American tourist. You and your guests will fall in love with the area!

I've done the canopy tour with Vallarta Adventures - which is how I found out about Las Caletas. The canopy tour was great! The one thing I didn't count on was how high up. Sounds silly but once I was up in the tree, I kind of freaked out. Got over it pretty fast and loved every minute of it, but wasn't exactly "prepared" to be so high in the sky. Most fun!

Also wanted to suggest to you to read previous guest reviews of the Marriott, as well as any other hotel in the area for that matter. Marriott CasaMagna Puerto Vallarta Resort (Puerto Vallarta, Pacific Coast) - Resort Reviews - TripAdvisor Great pictures are also included on this site, taken by visitors. A wealth of information.

I know some of you have had some bad experiences with the Marriott (poor Yari!), but I on the other hand, have had good luck with them. I've been working with Rosario and already have received my contract and will be working on setting up a hotel website for my guests. I'm not having my wedding there either - it's at Las Caletas. One of the reasons we chose the Marriott, is because we've stayed there several times over the past few years that we've traveled to PV. My fiance has done business in the area and has been a guest there well over a dozen times total - business and pleasure. Of course, this is the first time we've worked with them on an event, as opposed to be a guest. But so far so good. I think with any hotel, there are going to be good experiences and bad experiences. The new spa at the resort is just fantastic too - gorgeous. The facilities there are high-quality. Another reason is the location - quick cab ride to the Malecon, close to airport, golf, marina. Which will be convenient for the guests when it comes time to leave for LC. Plus, the swim-up bar at the pool is a definite benefit. However, we've learned over the years that it's just as easy to run to Walmart, get a cooler, a case of beer and be set for the week. As long as you don't have glass bottles by the pool.

Good luck and have a fantastic time!!! Jealous... I love PV! Congratulations!

As I have sifted through numerous photographer links via this forum, I have become overwhelmed trying to find a photographer that is available, really good and within our budget. A local PV friend has suggested the following: Interphoto 2000 Has anyone heard of Roberto? Used him? Any pros/cons to offer? I haven't seen him on any of the lists on this forum, but I may have missed it, too. So far I like everything about him - he's available, good work and affordable. Any and all advice is welcomed here! Thank you!

Congratulations!!!! My wedding is also at Las Caletas - October 18th. You've made a wonderful decision. I've been working with Nicole and couldn't be happier. This forum has also been a life saver - lots of suggestions and ideas flowing. Good luck to you in all your planning.

Truly sorry to hear about that for you - terrible. I have stayed at that Marriott several times, plus our next visit to PV and stay will be there in April when we head down for our pre-wedding planning weekend. Even met with one of the sales guys last September when I first inquired about our wedding (wasn't even engaged at that point). Never have had a problem there - ever. They've been great to work with for our wedding - the week after yours. I hope it works out for you!

I had read that with destination weddings, it was acceptable to send out the invitations up to four months prior to the wedding date, with the RSVP to be two months prior to the wedding date. However, I am completely stressing because I am having an October wedding and will be putting out my STDs next week. Haven't even picked out an invitation, let alone nail down the guest list. STRESSED!

I saw your website - not only we both getting married at Las Caletas, but we're having our guests stay at the Casa Magna Marriott as well. We've stayed there several times and love it more every time.