jayla

Quote: Originally Posted by Sarah Do We only did the moonlight package. $8999usd. Included basic beach set up- no extra frills. I figured the beach was a pretty enough set up and I didn't need all of the flowers, etc. We were just as paranoid about money, which is also why we did it this way. The bouquet was from the resort. Ask ariadna to send you the booklet to pick it out. They have PLENTY to chose from that are included in your package, no reason to bring your own. The music being played at the beach was also included. Ariadna gave us rose petals on the beach as our "present" from her. When you get there and meet with her, tell her you really want petals and ask what she can do for you. She WILL work with you. Another way to save money is to just go out and eat with your family at the restaurant you want and eat off their menu. Getting individual reception meals is expensive. If you are unsure about what restaurant you like, ask her to send you the menus of the restaurants and you can pick with your FI. Also, there were no hidden fees at all. The package was $899 and we only paid $899. BUT, and this is a big but, we did not get a bunch of extras. We just didn't need them. Believe me ladies, when it comes down to it, all the extra crap you get means nothing. You will be so happy to be married to the one you love, the rest will seem like small potatoes. Whew! That's a sigh of relief! Araidna has been very helpful and prompt so far over email, so I will just put faith in things and trust it will all work out in the end. And you're right, when it comes down to it, it is small potatoes. I think I will adopt that as my new mantra!

Quote: Originally Posted by Sarah Do Jayla, Honestly, I have no clue what kind of system they had set up. That was the least of my worries. All I know is that we gave them our ipod with the wedding songs on a playlist and they played them accordingly. Other than that, you got me. As far as a formal contract goes,I wouldn't worry. Over all, they are very organized there. Ariadna is great at what she does and there is only one wedding on any given day. That way things don't get messed up. As a side not to anyone planning a destination wedding, if you are a super controlling type A personality, this is not a good choice for you as a wedding. I am really laid back and I went with the flow. Here is how I see it. It isnt "my" day. Its "our" day. And when you get down to it, its really only 15 minutes of "our" day. No need to get too worked up over stuff. The important part is the marriage itself. Not the wedding. Wow....I sound like an after school special. Anyway, let me know if you have any other questions. Those pictures were beautiful--I am seriously all fluttery inside from them and can't wait until I'm on that beach getting married too! You looked wonderful, and I loved those starfish barrettes! Was your bouquet from the Valentin, because it was gorgeous! Fortunately, I am not a Type A person--but I am paranoid about money! I'm more worried of hidden fees or prices changing drastically without a contract. Like I want flower petals for the runner but don't think I can afford the Once In a Lifetime package. Ariadna told me there is a $550 fee for bringing your own flowers. Did you just bring those petals yourself? Ok, now I realize I do sound like a control freak--but trust me, I'm not, I just really want those petals!

Wow! I am so glad to hear that everything went smoothly for you and it was exactly what you had dreamed of! We are getting married there in May and I am worried about the lack of a formal contract. Your review was very informative, and if you post pictures, I can't wait to see them! What kind of music system did you have set up for your ceremony?

Hello, I am finally getting my date set for the VIM, but I'm worried about sending the deposit since I haven't really seen a contract. I've been emailing Ariadna and she's been very helpful, but I was wondering if any of you got something written saying when your date was, how much things were going to be, etc. Should I just send the deposit and assume the contract will come after that? How has it worked out for you guys? Thanks, Jayla

Congratulations! This website is super informative and I hope it gives you some great ideas and advice on planning your wedding. Good luck!

Hi Tamika! Congratulations! You will find this website so helpful. I have found loads of information to help me with my planning. Good luck! Jayla

Does anyone know on average how much their guests will or have paid for their stay at the VIM?

I stayed there last year and I ate at the french restaurant, and while the food was good, the portions were really small. We ended up ordering room service later that night. The mexican restaurant was our favorite. I heard that the Italian place and the Indonesian were very good.

Soon2bePowers--Your pictures are so beautiful!! I love the Thank You one and the two of you under the tree! Were those all taken at the VIM? And was that the bouquet included in the package?

I'm new but have been following your wedding planning journey carefully as I am most likely going to have mine at the VIM too. Congratulations! I am so glad that in the end everything went well. Even though I'm a lurker you've both inspired me and reassured me through your posts. From what I can see, it looks like your special day was beautiful!

Hello, I am new here and in the preliminary stages of wedding planning. I do not have a date set yet or an exact destination but am interested in the Riveria Maya in Mexico. Quite excited about learning what I can from this forum! Jayla