susan1672

Great! Thanks for sharing : )

Originally Posted by jmastr05 

I used the same totes, except solid. They were great. Lots of the guests used them as their beach bags.

 

Here are the items that were most used from my OOT bags (and of course they were good deals):

• Banana Boats SPF 45 lip balm - $2.19: http://www.minimus.biz/Banana-Boat-Sunscreen-Lip-Balm-SPF-45-Aloe-Vera-P02-0127702-9000.aspx (There are less expensive lip balms, but this is least expensive lip balm with SPF, which I specifically wanted. Also, this site, Minimus.biz, ships for free if the order is over $20.)
• Advil individually sealed packets - $0.39: http://www.minimus.biz/Advil-P01-0110401-1000.aspx (This site, Minimus, ships for free if the order is over $20.)
• Tylenol Extra Strength individually sealed packets - $0.35: http://www.soap.com/p/Tylenol-Extra-Strength-Pain-Reliever-Fever-Reducer-Caplet-Packets-54237 (I was surprised how many people can only take Tylenol and not other OTC pain killers. This site, Soap.com, ships for free if the order is over $49; $25 for your first order).
• Band Aids - $0.09 each one: http://www.soap.com/p/Band-Aid-Flexible-Fabric-Adhesive-Bandages-55187  (These would be included in a fist aid kit. We didn't do a pre-assembled first aid kit and just included a couple loose Band Aids per person. This site, Soap.com, ships for free if the order is over $49; $25 for your first order.)
• Packet of information on the destination - free: Though this took a lot of my time, compiling information from the internet is free. I ended up making a 60-page document. Then I printed it at work. One of our printers can print double-sided AND staple each document.
• Sand toys for the kids - $4.00: http://www.orientaltrading.com/ui/search/processRequest.do?Ntt=11+piece+sand+toy&requestURI=searchMain&Ntk=all&Ntx=mode%2Bmatchallpartial&N=0
• Banana Boat Aloe After Sun Wipes - $3.13: http://www.amazon.com/Banana-Boat-After-Cleansing-Wipes/dp/B003E1RVWW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1313972626&sr=8-1  (These were the most expensive items we included for the adults, but several people told us that they used them. So it seemed worth while. Also, they were easier to transport than aloe in gel form.)

 

Multiple people commented on how useful these items were. We also saw a lot of our guests using them around the resort. Though we only had 4 kids that attended, every one of them was constantly playing with the sand toys.

 

What did not get used, was the deck of playing cards. But I think we did a pretty good job if only 1 item in the OOT bag turned out to be a dud.

Ladies,

I have spent the past 6 hours searching for the best deals on items to put in my OOT bags and here is what I found:

Bath & Body Works: 5 for $5 Travel Sized Anti-Bacterial Gels in "Caribbean Escape" and Island Nectar

I got 40 of them so they were $1 a piece and they also have a free shipping promo if you use promo code "FALL 25"

I also found the best deal for first-aid kits on ebay and I plan on putting our monogram on the case and added some more items...they worked out to be about 70 cents each. Here is the link: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Johnson-Johnson-First-Aid-Kits-Travel-lot-48-/230661210585?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item35b47ac1d9

I also found cute tote bags from Oriental Trading. I don't want to print out logo on them because I want my guests to be able to reuse them so I will just add a luggage tag to the strap: http://www.orientaltrading.com/large-hibiscus-tote-bags-a2-34_737-12-1.fltr?Ntt=hibiscus+tote+bag

My future MIL found Colgate Wisp Toothbrushes at Five Below today that had 4 packs of 2 toothbrushes for $1.00 each so essentially 25 cents for each two pack!

I am also ordering our custom beer steins from ebay: http://www.ebay.com/itm/100-22oz-Custom-Personalized-Oktoberfest-Beer-Steins-/310330077969?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item48411d3311

Hope that helps : )

Hey Erin!

I see that you're from Harrisburg! I live in Carlisle! We are pretty close! Just wanted to wish you the best on your wedding day!

Susan

Originally Posted by ErinDoc 

Sharan - thanks so much for sharing your pictures!!  They are beautiful!  Congrat!!

 

 

Regarding Tai Flora, my wedding is about 2 1/2 months away, and I got my quote back from Jodi-Ann this week.  If I'm remembering from my phone conversation a month ago with Jodi-Ann, they require a deposit of half down two months before and then the rest two weeks before.  I probably would have liked to know the numbers that I was working with a little sooner, but she was great about sending me ideas and changing colors in the bouquet that I wanted.  they seem to operate similar to the hotel in that they don't need final details until only a few short months before the wedding.  I know that doesn't help all of the frustrations, but hopefully it helps a few.  I'm a planner too, so I totally get it.  However, this whole wedding is forcing me into more of an island mode in general which my snaity and my FI appreciate.  

Hi Grand ladies!

Just received an e-mail from Janielle...the funny thing is...I didn't even complain about anything...she contacted me out of the blue! It seems they are aware of the Tai Floral situation so hopefully it gets resolved soon!

Good night Susan,

I have not seen any e-mails that you sent with requests to the florist….are you getting through to her, if not please let me know??? And remember to copy me to all e-mails.

Susan

Hi Ladies,

I'm getting married at the Grand but just thought you would find this e-mail I just received from the WC at the Grand pretty interesting:

Good night Susan,

I have not seen any e-mails that you sent with requests to the florist….are you getting through to her, if not please let me know??? And remember to copy me to all e-mails.

It seems like they are aware of the issue and hopefully it will get resolved soon!

Susan

I agree. I e-mailed them months ago and the response was that Jodi-Ann Miller would assist me and I have yet to hear from them! I am e-mailing the WC at the Grand and I'm going to inform my travel agent. I know I have a while to go but they really need to be more accommodating.

Originally Posted by Tropical Love 

Bruceg05 - That's insane. Im at the Grand and I can have whatever outsider vendor I want. We just have to pay a $100 vendor fee in order to do so.  You know what ladies, you would think that Iberostar would be embarrassed at the lack of communication from a vendor that THEY RECOMMEND! WTH...

We need to unite and do something. My travel agent has been a doll, she's using her network to find me a place off site. I think we found one, keeping my fingers crossed! And you know what...right about now, I don't even care if it's going to cost me more then to have the ceremony at the Grand. I would so much rather give my money to a local Jamaican small business then a corporation that obviously doesn't care about their guests.

 

Maybe we need to unite and write a letter. 
 

 

Even though I already bought a dress, I'm now having dress regret and this is my new favorite dress that I might buy!

Wowwww! Amazing dress and loved your hair and the flower! Congrats!

Originally Posted by KeraSmiley 

I'm back with pictures of my dress post wedding!!!

I think it was strapped too tightly in the back...but eh well! I loved this dress and can't wait to TRASH it!!

Dress by: Mori Lee Blu

 

I am using the free wedding package at the grand and here are answers received from the grand (Janielle) about costs. I do plan on paying the $20 per person for the ceremony because that was on the original price list from the grand.

HI!

Got this from your wedding coordinator:

I have a few questions regarding my June 9th, 2012 wedding.

1. How big is the wedding cake included in the free wedding package? If it is small, how much would it cost for a larger cake for 50 people? We will provide a cake for all 50 persons.

2. I want to bring an outside vendor to drop off flowers. Would a vendor fee apply if they are only dropping off? As long as they come to the lobby give the flowers to me then no fee applies however they will need to set anything up at all then a cost of US$ 250 will apply.

3. What is the FREE room upgrade for the wedding couple included in the free wedding package? If we book an oceanview room, will we be upgraded to oceanfront? If we book a standard room, will we be upgraded to oceanview or oceanfront? Please note upgrades are based  upon availability. But as you said from standard to Ocean View and from Ocean View to Ocean Front.

4. The free wedding package says it includes a champagne toast. Is this only for the bride and groom? If so, how much would it be extra per person for the toast? No the Champagne Toast is for everyone at the ceremony.

5. Do you have decorations available to use for the reception for tables other than the head wedding table such as vases and candles? Also, do you have paper lanterns, LED lights and boxes for table cards or do we need to bring these items ourselves? Our local florist tai flora will provide all that for you if you need to get in touch with them let me know so I can send you contact info.

6. Since I am using the free wedding package, what would it cost for the decorating of a huppa and the decorating of the reception venue since that's not included in the free wedding package? The huppa is not a part of the package and cost US$250 and is draped in white if you need it to be decorated then the florist will provide any additional that you will need.

7. The cost for a 3 hour private reception is $1,750. How much would it be if we wanted to rent it out for an extra hour to make it 6:30 - 10:30 PM? It would be a cost of US$ 250 and the time would be form 7:00pm to 11:00pm.

8. My fiance and I were planning to do a site visit in September to see the resort and possibly visit with you if you are available. Would we have to pay the $100 to come on the property if we stay at a different resort or will you waive this fee since we are having our wedding there? Once it will be a regular site visit then sure I will have them waive the fee. Just let me know when so I can advise the relevant depts..

I am using the free wedding package at the grand and here are answers received from the grand (Janielle) about costs. I do plan on paying the $20 per person for the ceremony because that was on the original price list from the grand.

HI!

Got this from your wedding coordinator:

I have a few questions regarding my June 9th, 2012 wedding.

1. How big is the wedding cake included in the free wedding package? If it is small, how much would it cost for a larger cake for 50 people? We will provide a cake for all 50 persons.

2. I want to bring an outside vendor to drop off flowers. Would a vendor fee apply if they are only dropping off? As long as they come to the lobby give the flowers to me then no fee applies however they will need to set anything up at all then a cost of US$ 250 will apply.

3. What is the FREE room upgrade for the wedding couple included in the free wedding package? If we book an oceanview room, will we be upgraded to oceanfront? If we book a standard room, will we be upgraded to oceanview or oceanfront? Please note upgrades are based  upon availability. But as you said from standard to Ocean View and from Ocean View to Ocean Front.

4. The free wedding package says it includes a champagne toast. Is this only for the bride and groom? If so, how much would it be extra per person for the toast? No the Champagne Toast is for everyone at the ceremony.

5. Do you have decorations available to use for the reception for tables other than the head wedding table such as vases and candles? Also, do you have paper lanterns, LED lights and boxes for table cards or do we need to bring these items ourselves? Our local florist tai flora will provide all that for you if you need to get in touch with them let me know so I can send you contact info.

6. Since I am using the free wedding package, what would it cost for the decorating of a huppa and the decorating of the reception venue since that's not included in the free wedding package? The huppa is not a part of the package and cost US$250 and is draped in white if you need it to be decorated then the florist will provide any additional that you will need.

7. The cost for a 3 hour private reception is $1,750. How much would it be if we wanted to rent it out for an extra hour to make it 6:30 - 10:30 PM? It would be a cost of US$ 250 and the time would be form 7:00pm to 11:00pm.

8. My fiance and I were planning to do a site visit in September to see the resort and possibly visit with you if you are available. Would we have to pay the $100 to come on the property if we stay at a different resort or will you waive this fee since we are having our wedding there? Once it will be a regular site visit then sure I will have them waive the fee. Just let me know when so I can advise the relevant depts..

Originally Posted by Tropical Love 

Im waiting for my travel agent to get back to me in regard to penalties for cancelling the actual ceremony and reception but still stay at the resort.

 know why they can't give all the brides who previously booked that special, it would really help with the finances.If that was the case I wouldn't give a care about the $800 for "ceremony set up"  Im having 50 people and that $20 per person I was told was only for the ceremony setup. My WC never said anything about champagne or cake for my guest.

I'm not really sure but here's the link to it: http://www.hellodresses.com/fuchsia-strapless-knee-length-organza-a-line-bridesmaid-dress.html?SID=f10c3f8386ffbb2361546a63ded88bef

From what I've heard from other Grand brides, there is NOTHING to worry about! Although it may feel stressful right now, everything will work out beautifullly and I'm sure it will be better than you ever imagined! Most of the past brides said the Iberostar doesn't try to nickel and dime you for every little extra either. Hang in there girl...and just keep thinking how much fun it will be to spend a few days in paradise with your family, friends, and future husband!

Originally Posted by Toiinlove 

Hey ladies,

 

I guess I am the next Grand bride up. I only have 36 days until the wedding and 32 days until we leave. I fell like we still have so much to do but I have been planning things for more than a year now. Everybody's asking me am I nervous about getting married. No, I know what I am getting into. What I am worried about is that everything will not go smoothly like I plan and our credit cards are almost at their max lol!

 

 

Happy planning everyone,

 

LaToya

Hi Jen!

None of it makes sense because although it is all-inclusive, they claim that the wedding and reception are not part of the all-inclusive plan so anything extra that is part of those events is a charge. We are probably going to do a bonfire after our rehearsal dinner on the night before the wedding and then just have a normal reception either in the Port Maria restaurant or on the beach and have a DJ after the wedding. We probably won't rent out the disco but will probably go there after the reception.

Hope that helps!

Susan
 

Originally Posted by Jen723 

Hey Susan! 

So how are you working things? Are you having a reception?  I'm not sure if it makes sense to me since its all inclusive.

Are you renting out the disco or having a bonfire?  I need help on trying to figure things out. thanks 

Awesome! Congrats! Don't stress...it will all work out beautifullyyy  : )

Originally Posted by Jen723 

just booked!  Oct 6, 2012!  Excited but now I have to figure it all out! 

Where are all the Grand brides!? We need to get this forum jumping!

These are awesome! Thanks for sharing!
 

Originally Posted by exquisite02 

Here are the pictures! I posted the pictures in another thread as well.

Thanks for the info! This is very helpful!

 

Originally Posted by beachbum21 

Hi ladies!

One of the IBRHB brides checked with the coordinator (twice) and confirmed we can release them. Also, other brides have released them at their respective resorts so am assuming they travelled with them without a problem.

Hope that helps!

I intend to release them at my wedding Can't wait! It's going to be so pretty!

Also - there is a separate thread on sky lanterns which includes a lot of info on where to get them, etc....

 

 

 

 

Best of luck to you! : )

Originally Posted by thenewsatchell 

ahhhhh....I leave on Weds to go to Jamaicia....the day is finally here...July 30th...Im so nervous yet excited to finally head out....I will post pics when I get back...

Great BM dresses! Very unique and great for DW! I wish I could find something similar only in pink/orange!
 

Originally Posted by mmcst38 

My girls dresses were perfect with the ocean and looked great in our black and white photos! I bought them as part of there gifts

Love the dress and that is such a pretty color!

Originally Posted by Laurelyn 

This will be my bridesmaids dresses in this colour.  I love them! 

Hi Sharon - It is organza and the link to the dress is: http://www.hellodresses.com/fuchsia-strapless-knee-length-organza-a-line-bridesmaid-dress.html?SID=f10c3f8386ffbb2361546a63ded88bef
 

Originally Posted by Sharon99 

This is a pretty dress & my color too. Love how it pops especially on a beach! Where is it from & do you know what the material is?
 

 

This is the dress I'm considering for my BM's. Any thoughts?

I say go for it! I love that is has some color in it!

Originally Posted by bittersweetD1 

 

I havent purchased my dress yet, but this is the one that I keep comming back to....a feel like its a little impractical for a destination wedding...but then again, my wedding is NOT THE TIME to be practical! lol

 

I

We have the same wedding date : ) Congrats and best of luck to you! : )
 

Originally Posted by Mandy1021 

June 9th, 2012!

 

Not a destination wedding, but still a beach wedding!

 

We have our:

 

Ceremony booked,

Reception site booked,

Rentals booked,

Officiant booked and paid for,

DJ booked and paid for,

Photographer booked

Bridesmaids & Flower Girls dresses picked out

Videographer booked

 

Musicians about to be booked

Transportation to be booked soon

 

In the process of getting flowers (Very picky about my colours so it's taking a while )

 

Have someone I'm going to get back in contact with for invitations, but I think it's too soon for that yet .

Have the stuff to do our wedding favours, and have started collecting stuff to do our own thank you cards .

 

I have a dress in mind but am going to go dress shopping once more before I decide for sure.

 

I LOVE that we had over a year to plan it! It has given me a lot of time to bargain shop, and take my time to find vendors, etc.

 

I think the only 'main thing' we haven't figured out yet, is who is going to do our cake .