I guess if they want to go to Jamaica that's fine but make it clear that they can't attend the wedding events. Maybe your friend can have one guest attend but it's not a party on you for all!! I do agree that it's rude.
So sorry to hear that things didn't turn out as expected. It's a shame that you had to pay so much and not get quality pictures. I agree that you should get some of your guests photos- those pics came out much better.
Don't worry about the whiners and complainers. Let them stay home if they prefer not to travel so far. It's your wedding don't stress about it. Everyone will have something to say.
I suggest having a TA because some guests will like the convenience. Mine got a great group rate for us and will include airport transfers. Not having to pay all $ at once is a major plus! They can use her to book all of their travel or just the resort.
we plan to get group rates for the resort and our guests can book with our TA. Since we won't do group rates for the flights they can work with our TA or use our discount code from American Airlines. It saves them 5% and guests can use it for a few days before & after your wedding and travel from anywhere on AA to and from your wedding.
I think some things are worth investing in and that's wedding photography. Our package included photos but I sat down with FI and we looked at portfolios and decided that it was better to get our own photographer. We even are thinking of cutting out the video and have a family member take footage.
We will spend more on photos than we planned but I think it will be worth it. I was willing to cut things and have had to get another job but it's worth it. Pashimas and first aid kits are a great idea but maybe you can trim certain parts of your budget to make room for things that you feel are important.
Flowers are beautiful but I decided against them early on. They would be wasted since no one can take them home. If we have a small number of guests maybe I'll spluge on a few centerpieces. Our resort has an option of lanterns which is what we may go with. I was thinking about candle centerpieces but Aruba is known for being windy so that's not a option.
I've read that you don't need to bring a gift. My family threw us an eparty -we got gifts and we really didnt expect it. It was a nice gesture but not necessary.
Don't drive yourself crazy planning events. I think you have enough. Your guests will finds things to keep themselves busy. Maybe you can include info in a welcome letter about things they can do in the area/ excursions.
A DW is not a tradional wedding so do what you want to do! I like the idea of a lunch/ brunch- it will save some $$ also. We are planning a welcome dinner/ get together the night before the wedding. I also wanted to do a farewell breakfast but we decided against it.