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Anyone know about cost of symbolic ceremony? I think I may be "eloping" and getting legally married here beforehand, but would like to have a ceremony for us two on a beach! I'd like to avoid these set $799 or whatever packages that include a multitude of things I don't need! I need an officiant, some photos, a bouquet, and we are happy to eat at 1 of the restaurants at the resort...

Has anyone planned or know about a cruise for just the two of you? I guess many people call it eloping?! We're now considering a cruise for just us, and a small AHR bbq for the family and friends. The dream is definitely to go to Europe and sail on a Royal Caribbean Mediterranean cruise (or other line if more suitable). I don't even know about marriage legalities in Europe?!! Thoughts? Ideas? TIA!

I only know that the company out of Toronto called "The Wedding Holiday" is offering a trip to potential brides for $299 (to be refunded if you book with them) + taxes (around $300). Don't know when....

Hi! I'm still wavering between a DW (that no one can seem to afford to go to) and eloping. I do have my heart set on a specific place (Azul Sensatori) so don't want to just go to any 5 star place in the Caribbean last minute. I was hoping the TAs could honestly tell me whether I'd get a better rate if I wait til much close (within a month or two?) or if I book ahead of time (for next summer)? Budget is a huge concern for us so we just want to do what's best without compromising too much quality for the vacation. Thanks!

What a great thread! So I'd love to hear your thoughts ladies... I have my heart set on getting married at the Azul Sensatori. My FH and I have no financial help from our parents and just bought a new house and he's a student and yada yada, don't have much money. I'm willing to save 5k for a weding/honeymoon, but not to spend on a reception in Toronto with people I don't care to have there. The dilemma is whether to just elope, and perhaps have an AHR 6mo-1 year later when we can afford it. OR, we invite everyone to the resort but I already know my Mom, and maybe even my Dad may not be able to make it financially so we feel like we'd end up with a few random friends and a sibling there perhaps...

what shower please Meghan - it seems if you want the free package you have to upgrade to the honeymoon suite, otherwise you have to pay for 1 of the wedding packages (about $2000).

Hi Shannon! Thanks for the info... what wedding shower? I know the company may do a FAM trip in Nov. to the resort but that's all I heard. They haven't quoted me the upgraded package yet, I only see it on the Hotel's website. Can I ask what you would be paying for just you and your FH to go and stay in that stunning room I so have my heart set on this hotel now and would be sad to have to look elsewhere. Also, Lorraine emailed me FROM there today and said that it's free if coming from U.S. as rates are 30% higher, but for Canadians no free wedding package as we have better rates apparently.

oops, sorry - we're looking at May 2009 for 7 days

Quote: Originally Posted by jennik13 Hi Katie, I am from NYC and my fiance is from Toronto. I was wondering what TA you are using...is it Luxe? If so, that $1800 quote from Toronto is making me real nervous! When is your date and how many days are your guests staying? Welcome to the thread! Jenni Hi Jenni, It is from "The Wedding Holiday", I also asked Shine and Berman Travel for quotes and am waiting on them. BUT I just read somewhere that I can only get the "free wedding package" if I book the honeymoon suite plus 15 additional room nights - the T.A. did not mention this at all and if I can't get an included wedding deal with a cheaper room category - I may not go!

Hi Gang! I've been reading this blog like crazy ever since I discovered the Azul (just 2 days ago!!!) and I'm seriously leaning towards picking this hotel for a May 2009 wedding (sandwiched in between a few of yours no doubt - we should meet up for drinks at the Mojito bar for those at the resort at the same time!) Just curious, if you can say, approx. what package rate you're getting for your guests. I've been quoted about $1800 incl. tax from Toronto for May for the basic Junior Jaccuzi suite. Also, is your T.A. demanding a deposit? Mine wants $3000 (300 per 10 people) to be refunded to me after they book (I think another T.O. bride on here may be dealing with the same agent). Not knowing how many people will attend at this point, nor having a ton of money, we would prefer to only deposit on our rooms.... Also, do you pay in full for your own room/wedding at the resort? Thanks and look forward to being part of this thread! Katie

Hi all, I've just started planning a DW for next May or so (now that I have convinced my family in Toronto of what I DON'T want for my wedding day Was utterly confused about where to go as there are so many pros and cons for the same resorts if you read tripadvisor (as much as I do!). I'm now majorly leaning towards Azul Sensatori (and am so glad there's a thread on there!) as it fits most of my criteria, but is just a bit pricey. Planning on keeping this low budget, other than the cost of the trip of course, and would love to hear from other brides who are are trying to keep the costs down (ex: no private reception, nor $500 flower upgrade, nor video...) Thanks in advance!!! Katie