JOSIE

I know there is a big hoopla (did i really just say that?!) about the outside photographer issue. I was told that you could, but you have to pay for a day pass, etc. But I wasn't really looking into it or paying attention. I know MsBetty said she would clarify on her site visit. Hopefully we'll hear soon!

jetsbride- that is an awesome deal!!! I'm really excited for the honeymoon, it was something I really wanted! On a different note, i have a question for everyone: I was originally planning on doing the resort photog. (i heard he was really good) and I planned to do the 80 photos on a disk...I'm good with photo editing & software so I figured I'd make my own album and video/slideshow... I had planned for my MOH or mom to take a bunch more non pro pics that i could edit. Now my mom has been sending me links to professional photog's and says that my grandma will pay for the photos & related cost as my wedding gift! I was really excited and LOVE Elizabeth Medina....but what are the chances she'd STILL be availiable? Do you guys have any idea how far in advance you need to reserve an outside photographer?

This is such a fun thread for Nov. brides! I've been wondering where & when I should do a bunch of this wedding stuff! I have no idea when I'm doing the shower or B-party since my MOH is getting married in July and I'm her MOH too. Right now my focus is on her, so I'm guessing my stuff will be in September, etc... We're not doing an AHR because we can't afford renting a place. I'd love to do a bbq, but it will be cold in chicago! So, oh well! So far all I've done are save the dates, my website, picked & booked our place and had a TA arrange travel packages. I'm wondering how everyone is deciding when to order OOT bags & favors for guests. We invited over 200 (my crazy italian mom!) and I'm assuming most of them won't come....but I have NO idea how many favors/OOT bags to budget for. Any suggestions?

Thanks everyone!!! I'm happier than ever & appreciate you taking the time to read!!

I DID book Secrets Maroma! I'm SOO excited! Here is what sold me: A). I wanted a place different looking that the classy, elegant, look of the RIU. I wanted something more modern and contemporary....so my honeymoon and wedding would be totally different and I could get that "honeymoon feel like I'm in a whole different location/setting. . I fell in love with the photo gallery & rooms! It's only a few years old and I loved that. I read that it has 14 pools!!! I also loved the price we got, which was $2400 with a $200 credit for the spa! We booked for 5 nights, 6 days and got the "ocean club preferred suite" . I'm attaching a pic and all that it comes with! The Preferred Club is an exclusive area providing exceptional services, a private lounge and Preferred Club suites offering impressive ocean views, most with outdoor private soaking tubs, all in premium locations. Preferred Club benefits include: Private Preferred Lounge Preferred Status and Amenities Concierge service Daily continental breakfast service in the lounge Afternoon hot and cold hors d'oeuvres Exquisite desserts & fine liquors in the lounge Complimentary newspaper in room every day (English or Spanish) Free internet access in suite Free computer access in Preferred Lounge Upgraded mini bar service Upgraded bath amenities The following suites are offered: Preferred Club Junior Suite Ocean View - Each suite has an ocean view, a four-poster king or two double beds, armoire complete with his and her closets, desk, sofa, full bathroom, private and furnished terrace with exterior private soaking tub. Here's the link to the photo gallery: Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun

Quote: Originally Posted by chloe55 I know what you mean about dragging it out, but if it's what you want then I would just explain to people that you want to do something outside when its warm, so you'll have to wait till summer. I would think most people would understand and not get snarky about you trying to drag it out. I have a friend who had a DW and got pregnant right away when they got back, or maybe even while they were in Mexico. She cancelled her AHR and had it a year later. Nobody cared or said anything. We were actually worried about having ours so soon after our wedding because my matron and maid of honor both live in Texas and FI's mom lives in Florida. We didn't think it was fair to ask them to travel so soon after getting back from the DW, but nobody really cared about that. About the streaming live on the internet thing, I remember seeing something about that when I was looking for locations a long time ago. I just looked it up, and it's an add on to packages at the Azul Sensatori. I haven't heard about the RPRM offering it, but I did take a peak at the website Katie's mom found and that looks really cool! We have a digital camcorder and could bring a laptop, but is there wireless internet at the RPRM? If there was, it would be pretty easy to just have a friend point the camera at you during the ceremony. We would prob do that anyway. We're going to the courthouse before Mexico for the same reasons as everyone else. We want to be totally married after the ceremony, and not still have one more thing to do to make it official. On a more practical note, I'm going to be on FI's insurance and we wanted to get the paperwork on that and the name change stuff started before we leave. For all you trip advisor pros, do you look at all the reviews for the area? We decided that we're going to go to another resort in the area after everyone leaves for a little mini-honeymoon. We're thinking the Iberostar Grand or the Secrets Marmoa. Have you come across anything that made you go 'ooh, I want to go there'? I'm going to Secrets Maroma!!!! I'm SOOO Excited! We're just doing a 5 day.

Quote: Originally Posted by niujess I love my Blackhawks, and they're actually good this year.. The past week I don't think I went to bed before midnight once We love the Hawks too! Tough loss last night.... I hope they pull a series win!!!

Quote: Originally Posted by ehegwer Hi - I was just wondering who checks/uses/is on Facebook? I know it sounds dorky, but I'm always looking for more friends. E I love facebook!!!!!!! anyone who wants should request me!!! Josie Pedersen or search my email below!

Quote: Originally Posted by MaryS We picked the date Nov 28th its my FI parents wedding anniversary. And both FI parents have passed. We thought that would make it even more special. And I always wanted to get married during Thanksgiving weekend That is so special What a great idea! I'm getting married 11.28 too! Happy planning!

We picked our date for 2 reasons: 1. It's over Thanksgiving break, so we figured our guests would have thurs & friday off, and wouldnt have to take additional time off work if they didnt want to. 2. It also just so happened to be 2.5 years to the day we met, which was May 28, 07.

Quote: Originally Posted by Dreamy101 Thanks for the advice ladies! The more I think about it, the more I just can't leave my dad out of it.. I would feel awful and I'm sure he would feel the same.. everyone off to my wedding including my mom and he's at home.. wow that's bad!! I'm thinking maybe do the symbolic ceremony with just us in the dominican and then do the legal stuff back home afterwards with everyone there...now just have to convice the FI!! I think this is a great idea. You can do the symbolic at a low cost and still have your dream wedding on the beach, then you can make it legal with your dad and the rest of your family there! Good luck with the FI! What guy wouldnt want 2 wedding ceremonies!?? hahaha

Here is my random confession that has nothing to do with games My FI was married & divorced right out of college. His wife cheated on him and left after 1 year and was super materialistic. for their wedding, she requested his parents pay over 10 thousand dollars and they went on a honeymoon for like 14 days in St. Lucia. Needless to say, his parents (mom specifically) absolutely love me. They are so thrilled that I'm nothing like her and she tells me all the time how thankful she is that I've turned his life around. But, when it came time for our wedding they offered nothing. his previous honeymoon was over 6K!! My parents are paying for everything (including our flights) and they refuse to give the $1900 for our little 5 day honeymoon, because of his previous marriage. They even told him it has nothing to do with money, and they know it's not my fault...but "it is what it is". I know I shouldn't care- but for some reason I take it personally! Maybe it's because I've given my FI over 5K to pay off his debt (caused by his ex wife) and helped him get back on his feet. He's in the process of paying me back....but why is it that the super bitchy materialistic girl gets 10 thousand, and the girl who bails him out gets nothing!!!! It's my "confession" because I know I sound spoiled and bitchy if I were to say anything to his parents, and i had to tell someone!!!!!

Quote: Originally Posted by Mishi I am working on a Photography website for a friend of mine and I can't help but notice how boring people's wedding pics are now that I am used to seeing ours. I know that sounds horrible... but after looking at all of these beautiful beach locations with the amazing floral decorations, these others in a reception hall with regular flowers are so plain to me, lol. Makes you realize how lucky we are! Wow! LOVE THIS THREAD! You are so right There is absoutely nothing that compares to the DW pics! Everytime I see traditional wedding pics, I can't wait to take mine kissing by the bright blue water, etc etc.... Thanks for saying what many of us were probably thinking! love it!

Quote: Originally Posted by litl_april I feel like I completely know and understand your pain! I am getting married in June and am MOH for a friend in August! She has been very specific about what she wants and I don't know how to approach her in saying I just can't afford some of what she wants. She's the type who, even not as a bride, expects to get what she wants and holds a lengthy grudge if she doesn't get it. She is not attending my wedding so it sure doesn't feel like much of a "trade" as some have mentioned. It is definately painful as she also has not even offered to pay for a single expense I've had with her wedding thus far. I don't think she'll even be purchasing our jewlery. I wish I had advice for you, but really just my own story to know you're not alone in this. I hope your friend comes around or at least some of her bridesmaids and realizes you can't pay for this alone!! Thanks for this post! In addition to my wedding, and my best friends wedding where I'm the MOH in July, I'm also standing up for a wedding in August - and the bride is just like this!! Worst of all, I'm not even her MOH but she calls me pouting that she wants to have 3 bridal showers (1 family, 1 friend, and 1 grooms family)!! She wants me to put together a "friend shower" for her and also come to both of the other 2 showers!! I like that 3 of my friends are all engaged and we are all SUCH different brides. Its good to be able to vent and know other brides in this forum are also standing up for people with some crazy needs! Thanks for sharing your story...just had to let you know I can relate

Thanks to everyone for all the great responses! Being my first time with the wedding stuff, and having a pretty laid back personality, I'm lost on etiquitte! I do agree that she'll be bearing a big expense to come to my wedding, so there is a trade off involoved. Thanks for putting things in perspective and I think I'll chat with the other 4 bridesmaids and maybe they can take over some basic costs like napkins, silverware, plates etc... You guys have never had alcohol at a wedding shower! man are you missing out !!

Quote: Originally Posted by jetsbride Josie - I have told all my guests the same so I guess I just let it be and hopefully everything will go smoothly. For those ladies who are getting legally married before going to the RIU, how far in advance are you having the ceremony? What are you going to wear? What about the guests, I don't want to make it a big deal but will people be offended if they were not invited to the actual ceremony? Is everyne planning a AHR? if you are, how long after the actual wedding until you have the AHR? sorry, I've got lots of questions... Jetsbride- We're also getting legally married before, but we're doing it in July. The only people that know are my parents and his. We're going to the courthouse together alone, because like chloe, we dont consider it our real wedding and don't want people to not come to mexico because they know we're already legally married. The reason we're doing it 4 months before is because we're buying a house and his parents arent comfortable with us living together first. We also want to combine insurance and it was just easier this way and we figured no one would know the difference anyway. I might be the only one on the our forum not having an AHR! Like you, my FI's family is from across the US and we just didn't want to leave them out. We also thought about a bbq, but being in Chicago it is also too cold and we don't want to wait till spring or summer because it's long over by then, and I didnt want to deal with people who ARE coming to Mexico feeling like they have to attend 5 events for my wedding. That's just me though. For anyone that can't make it they can always check out our website to see how it went down! I have also heard of live streaming via internet so people can log in to watch the ceremony live if they can't make it. Does anyone know if the RIU RM offers this? That might be a great way to include more people for those who are interested in that!

Quote: Originally Posted by jetsbride Thanks tylersgirl, I was thinking July is better too. That is an awesome idea to give the koozies and reminder card at the engagement party. Has anyone had the issue of guests not booking with the agent you decided to go with because they want to wait and see if they can get a better price? How have you dealt with it? or do you just leave it alone? I've definitely had this issue! I gave all my TA's info to everyone, but also let most of my guests explore pricing on their own (but have been telling them to make sure its the right RIU). When they find better deals they email them to the TA and explain that they want to book with her, but they found a cheaper price. (usually they copy and paste a screen-shot or send a link) She's been able to match some of the deals, but some she cannot, so people book on their own and just tell me they're coming. I'm OK with that (of course I want them to get the best deal) but I told them to make sure to confirm with the hotel that their rooms have been booked, etc, because I've heard horror stories about people getting great deals online, and then not having the same (or any) reservations when the day comes. I was very specific about risks of booking on their own, but if they were comfortable then I let it be!

Hi Jen, There are so many thousands of ideas on the forum for maintaining a budget and also having a DW. Personally, I chose a DW because it was so much cheaper than getting married in the states. I have no idea what your preferences are (how many people you want to come, what your guest's budgets are, etc...) but we're getting married at the RIU Palace Riviera Maya, and although it is the AI resort, the wedding package included dinner for 50 people, ceremony set up, etc for only $1,500 total. I couldn't find a deal like this anywhere else! Good luck!!

Hi Guys! Not only am I planning my own DW for this Nov. But I'm also the MOH in my best friends (and roommate's) wedding (which is local) this July. She is having a HUGE traditional wedding and of course I am very happy for her. I was told several months ago by her sister in law that we should start planning the shower together. So, now all of a sudden I'm enthralled in planning her wedding shower, which is fun but she's invited more than 70 people. We've had to rent out a place, buy centerpieces, favors, food, alcohol, the whole 9 yards, for over 70 people! It's starting to cost me over 1K....and then I read online today that the maid of honor doesn't even normally throw the shower!! I'm over the money spent and am happy to be a part of this, and don't want to bring it up to my roomie and best friend. I think she would be hurt if she knew it was costing this much and she probably didn't even realize it. She is the first one of our group of friends to get married. My real question is....is it normally the role of the MOH to be in charge of the shower? Thanks Girls!

I got travel insurance through my TA, it was 100 dollars per person, but it gave me a ton of piece of mind and I thought the price was totally reasonable. I haven't looked into wedding insurance though!

Quote: Originally Posted by tylersgirl Hey girls! My dress is called Rhianna Royale...Here is the link: Rhianna Royale - by Maggie Sottero I don't have any pics of myself in it because my sis took some when I tried it on to order, but her camera was stolen I ordered it and it should be coming to the shop in the next few weeks. I will post pics as soon as I can! Wow. You are going to look so beautiful in that dress! It's so elegant and I can just picture it on the beach! I can't wait to see pics!!! PS: I love the AHR dress too It's adorable!

Quote: Originally Posted by tylersgirl Thank you so much! I will post pics as soon as I can! Here is my AHR dress. It is technically a wedding dress, but a short one! I love it too! Casa Blanca Bridal :: Collections Wow. You are going to look so beautiful in that dress! It's so elegant and I can just picture it on the beach! I can't wait to see pics!!!

Wow. You are going to look so beautiful in that dress! It's so elegant and I can just picture it on the beach! I can't wait to see pics!!!

Chloe. I love the first one!!! It's stunning and I absolutely love the bottom, train, and back!

Google Image Result for http://www.preownedweddingdresses.com/images/dresses/4946/src/Paloma-Blanca-A-line-3802-Champagne-2008-3.jpg Is this color to dark for you? You've probably already looked a million times tho