mrendic

Quick question for those of you who have already had their weddings. What did you ladies do as far as tipping the wedding vendors? Im talking about everyone from the officiant, to on site coordinator, to photographer, stylists at the salon, etc? We know 100% that we will tip the waitstaff at tucanes and of course all of the regular resort staff, but I keep hearing mixed things as far as the actual wedding vendors & people associated with just the wedding aspect. I was hoping someone who has already been there will have some insight! 

Originally Posted by AllieH 

 

See - this is what I don't get. Why do I get different service/quotes than you do? 

 

For the ceremony:

-chair sashes

-aisle markers (small paper lanterns)

-parasols to set in front of the gazebo

-paper lanterns to hang on the gazebo

-programs w/ fans to lay on the chairs

 

for the reception:

-chair sashes

-paper lanterns to hang around the edge of Tucanes (not from the super high ceiling)

-place cards/favors

-small centerpiece - probably a small bud vase with paper pinwheel stuck in it

-wooden/painted shells and real shells to scatter on the tables

 

if I had to guess, the chair sashes and paper lanterns are what's driving up the cost. but I don't know because she won't tell me what the deal is - not enough detail or information, and she didn't even want to quote me a set up price to begin with (even though Valeria has done that for many of you). 

 

Aside from their high prices/quotes, I'm most unhappy about getting different answers and being treated differently from other brides because of the coordinator I'm working with. I just don't understand this. And yes, I've gotten my TA involved, we've gotten the resort and Lomas' supervisor involved - it did little good (other than I got 1 reply in 48 hours...and then nothing for 5 days so far). 

 

 

I'm paying 150 just for paper lanterns at tucanes. its a little ridiculous but that's the one thing I don't want to do myself. I didn't even bother with the other stuff, I'm going to have my mom and future MIL do the rest. It's so frustrating how long they take to respond though- my wedding is in 10 days and I feel like each email takes at least 5, hopefully they will get a little faster now that it's coming up so fast. 

Originally Posted by Stina9562 

 

  We did Xeha, shopping trip to Playa De Carmen and a Catamaran to La Isla Mujeras. Xeha was not what I expected. We did Xeha with the whole group and had fun because we were with all our friends and family but kind of boring. It was a lot of walking so be prepared. It cost a $100 and all the food and alcohol is included. The food was pretty good!

 

Shopping I did with the girls and it was only for four hours. I wish we had more time because I love to site see and shop. That was only twenty I believe.

 

The Catamaran was awesome! My hunsband and I did this after everyone left. It was all you can drink and eat as well. Food was okay. We snorkeled for about 30 min which was okay. I felt rushed because we had to follow the group. We stopped at one part of the island for lunch and had enough time to play in the water or just relax. I actually took a nap in the hammock which was amazing! Then we headed to the main tourist part of the island where we had about an hour and half to shop and do whatever.

 

The Catamaran was our favorite!  I suggest for a group if you are planning a trip.

 

Let me know if you have any questions.

Thanks!! I really really want to do a catamaran. I think that is on the top of my list right now and maybe something with ziplining. Or xacaret. so many choices!

Originally Posted by murmel 

 

I have not used "captain quickie's", but there are so many tour operators out there. As long as they get good reviews from TripAdvisor, friends, etc., I would say go for it. Xcaret is stunning- try to go so that you can stay for the evening show, it's worth it.

 

As for trying to arrange a large group it can be tricky. Plus if you and FI go, it becomes a special moment just for the two of you. Word of advice, don't try to do everything (ie. excursions every day). Do one tour/outing, then the next day enjoy the pool and beach and relax!

 

Have fun!

We will be there from the 4th until the 14th- I think we will do one on the 5th and one on the 12th or 13th- that will give us enough time to enjoy the resort. We probably just wont even worry about a group excursion. Thanks so much for all the info!

Originally Posted by murmel 

 

LOL! Ran out of room above.

 

Anyway, try to get out at least once. The Mexican people and the area are simply beautiful. We have used a number of tour companies over the years, but I can vouch for Sunwing, Transat, Lomas being good.(ie. arrange transport, being on time, and having a representative at the hotel)

 

If you have any other questions, just ask. I have been down to the Mayan area over twenty times, and we have down most of the parks at least once.

 

Have fun!

Oh wow so much info!! Thanks. Xacaret looks really awesome so we were thinking about maybe going there. I was also reading some reviews about "captain quickie's" tours and all of the reviews are really amazing so thats another option that we have been considering, I don't know if you have ever done anything with them. I think the FI and I will do a couple of excursions when the guests aren't around, we really wanted to do something with everyone but it just seems too complicated to try and put something together for the group

Hey ladies. Did anyone do any excursions/ plans to do any in Mexico? Any suggestions? 

Originally Posted by LBruton2012 

 

I have really enjoyed reading everyone's posts and looking at everyones pictures!  I leave in 7 days and CANNOT wait!

You're getting married 2 days before me!! Woo

Originally Posted by TheWolferts 

 

I do not recommend anything other than a full updo... it was windy on the beach every day that we were there! My hair was all the way up except for 2 small pieces in the front that we curled, which ended up in my mouth several times during the ceremony adn I kept having to brush them out of my face! My husband even commented on it! LOL

 

Thanks!! That's really helpful

Originally Posted by TheWolferts 

 

Thanks! Even though I have been done with competitive gymnastics for 4 years now, the perfectionist still lives on!

 

I sent an email to my WC with Lomas mentioning the issues, so I am hoping they attempt to make it right and I am hoping that future brides can benefit from it.

 

Btw, our original wedding date was June 9, 2012 at EDR at Gazebo 55!

Luckily for me you changed it! lol. I really hope that they don't have a ton of weddings on the same day- my wedding is going to be even smaller than yours so if they have a bunch of bigger ones, I can only imagine they will be distracted. On a side note, did anyone at your wedding wear their hair down or half up? If so, did the hairdo survive or was it a complete mess? 

Congratssss!!! Everything looks amazing and despite all of the things that went wrong, you will look back on your pictures and remember the beauty of it all! I'm sorry that you had to go through all the negative things that happened, I know that I would be upset too knowing how much money, time and effort goes into it all. I would definitely expect it to be perfect, down to every detail. Oh the agony of being a perfectionist! The thing that would have REALLY upset me was the whole "it was for an important guest" thing. That is NOT cool.... It's your big day, it shouldn't matter WHO else is at the resort and how important they are.

Originally Posted by murmel 

 

I also did a boudoir album for my hubby. Had my maid of honour deliver it (and the watch I got him). He opened the watch with his buddies watching, and then my MH pulled my hubby aside and gave him the album (where his buddies could not watch!). He was blown away

 

Plus it's a really fun thing to do. Highly recommend it!

Yeah, I'm really glad I did it. I haven't seen the photos yet but I'm sure he will love it regardless! 

Originally Posted by Stina9562 

 

 I did this for my husband with a card. He loved it!

Stina-

How did you give it to him? Did you have someone from the wedding party deliver it? 

SOOOOO... I did a boudoir shoot a couple of days ago as a wedding present for the FI, I am so anxious to see how the pictures turned out. *fingers crossed*. Is anyone else doing a boudoir book? What is everyone doing for wedding gifts?

Originally Posted by AllieH 

 

I found them one day on pickyourplum.com - they send out daily deals on various craft supplies or home deco. I think they were 50 for $4 or something silly like that. Way cheaper than I found on any website, and I just got lucky that they were offered in the blue & orange colors that fit perfectly. 

 

They aren't thin, and feel like decent quality. I've seen them offered a couple of times since I bought them, and pink is usually one of the colors (a soft pink though, not a bright pink or fuschia). 

 

 

Thanks sooo much! I'll keep my eye out

What an amazing planning journal. Everything looked so incredible and you truly did a great job with all the added touches. Congrats on becoming a MRS and a soon to be mommy!

Originally Posted by AllieH 

 

I started some of my DIY projects today, and started with the small one: adding little flags to my striped straws. I have light blue & white, as well as these orange & white ones. I finished the blue ones and started on the orange, and that's when the adhesive ran out. These will go on the bar to be served with the beverages during the dinner/reception. 

 

 

 

e orange, and then ran ou

 

 

 

Hey Allie-

 

Where did you get the striped straws from? I have been trying to find some pink and white ones and I can't seem to find any that I really like!

AHHH!! Thanks for the maracas site! I have been trying to find pink ones for months now without spending a fortune. Those are perfect!

Originally Posted by Jillsepher 

I can't remember if this was already answered but I emailed my WC last week and still no response so... How much is it to get your makeup done and what kind of makeup do they use? My skin is super sensitive so I have to be careful.

They use MAC makeup at the salon. 

Originally Posted by TheWolferts 

Danak71-

 

My cousin got married at EDR and had Claudia Photo do her photography. She is an approved vendor so no fee and she did a great job! Claudia Photo has a lot of good reviews on this site if you wanted to take a look.

 

 

 

 

 

Claudia Photo isn't one of the vendors anymore We booked Citlalli Rico forever ago while they were still on the list but there was some sort of miscommunication and they tried to charge us an outside vendor fee, fortunately they took care of it. I got really upset for a minute there because we already paid the deposit and everything

Originally Posted by AllieH 

 

updated EDR Brides list! 

 

Stina9562 – April 20, 2012

Amanda50388 – April 30, 2012

TheWolforts – May 12, 2012

Msbritbrit57 – May 19, 2012

ElDorado2012 – June 30, 2012

ONEILL12 – September 15, 2012

Jillsepher – October 11, 2012

Allie H – November 5, 2012

Feb 2013 - February 15, 2013

JNitschke - May 25, 2013

 

Stina! You leave soon!!! 

 

Jennifer - I really wasn't thinking about lighting the paper lanterns. My assumption was Tucanes will have enough lights that we won't need to light them (and I'm still hoping Tucanes will be available for us). 

 

Jessica - what are your thoughts on that since you've been to the venue? (and thank you again for the insider info!!!)

 

Ashley - thank you for sending me the template for your programs. Very much appreciated!! 

 

 

 

 

June 9th, 2012  

 

When I asked Valeria about lighting the lanterns she said to do it if I can "to add illumination to tucanes", she said that tucanes has blue LED lights and modern chandeliers but that additional illumination is recommended. Here is a photo she sent with the actual lights that are already there.

 

 

Originally Posted by ElDorado2012 

 

So, I just have to share a story related to many of our posts regarding frustrations with guests backing out... My fiance's cousin, (who is our age and lives 15 minutes from us), and has recently told us through email that he was going to come to the wedding and that he was hoping we could find him a roommate. For several weeks, we emailed around to some of the other single guys, asking if they would be willing to room with him. We were able to set him up with a super chill roommate (both of these guys can get along with anyone), who was traveling on the exact days my fiance's cousin wanted to go, and who was in the same profession, so we figured there would be plenty to talk about. All set, right?

 

Well last night, we open the mail and receive this individual's (my fiance's cousin) 'NO' rsvp in the mail. There was no note included on the sudden change, nor phone call or email. Just the card with the "declines" box checked off and his name. Um...WTF?! Three weeks ago, he told us he was amped to go, had us do all this work in trying to find him a roommate, etc., etc.; then, when he decides to not go, he just sends in his rsvp card with zero explanation? This guy makes a ton of money (more than my fiance and I combined) and has no trouble getting time off of work. There is nothing I can think of that would cause him to suddenly change his mind. AND to simply return the card and not even call/email/visit us to give an explanation or, at least write one on the card??

 

This is seriously getting to be ridiculous... (sorry for the rant, but it's fresh on my mind)

You know, honestly, the worst part for me is the fact that they act sooooooo pumped to go and THEN back out. I just don't get it. If you can't make it for any reason, that's fine. But don't act so excited and then suddenly give some BS reason as to why you can't make it. Everyone has known about our wedding (exact location, costs, etc) for almost a whole year now, and to back out because you decided to plan another trip is just so low to me. He was the one who was acting most excited out of everyone, too. It's just crazy. 

Originally Posted by ElDorado2012 

 

So, I just have to share a story related to many of our posts regarding frustrations with guests backing out... My fiance's cousin, (who is our age and lives 15 minutes from us), and has recently told us through email that he was going to come to the wedding and that he was hoping we could find him a roommate. For several weeks, we emailed around to some of the other single guys, asking if they would be willing to room with him. We were able to set him up with a super chill roommate (both of these guys can get along with anyone), who was traveling on the exact days my fiance's cousin wanted to go, and who was in the same profession, so we figured there would be plenty to talk about. All set, right?

 

Well last night, we open the mail and receive this individual's (my fiance's cousin) 'NO' rsvp in the mail. There was no note included on the sudden change, nor phone call or email. Just the card with the "declines" box checked off and his name. Um...WTF?! Three weeks ago, he told us he was amped to go, had us do all this work in trying to find him a roommate, etc., etc.; then, when he decides to not go, he just sends in his rsvp card with zero explanation? This guy makes a ton of money (more than my fiance and I combined) and has no trouble getting time off of work. There is nothing I can think of that would cause him to suddenly change his mind. AND to simply return the card and not even call/email/visit us to give an explanation or, at least write one on the card??

 

This is seriously getting to be ridiculous... (sorry for the rant, but it's fresh on my mind)

You know, honestly, the worst part for me is the fact that they act sooooooo pumped to go and THEN back out. I just don't get it. If you can't make it for any reason, that's fine. But don't act so excited and then suddenly give some BS reason as to why you can't make it. Everyone has known about our wedding (exact location, costs, etc) for almost a whole year now, and to back out because you decided to plan another trip is just so low to me. He was the one who was acting most excited out of everyone, too. It's just crazy. 

Originally Posted by TheWolferts 

 

Mrendic-

 

Our original date was June 9, 2012 at Gazebo 55!!

 

We ended up moving up the date to May 12, 2012 to work around my fiance's football schedule and we were worried it might be starting to get too warm. Such a small world!

 

 

 

That's too funny! I'm a little worried about the heat too, and that it might rain. Hopefully it will be ok. What time is your ceremony? We are doing the 6pm since sunset is at 7:30, hopefully that will give us enough time for photos and such.

Hey ladies,

So I've been silently stalking, errr.. I mean, reading EVERYTHING on this entire site. This will officially be my very first post! Exciting! I've been now engaged for about 2 years and wedding planning on and off for about a year. We are also getting married at El Dorado Royale-  on June 9th, 2012 at Gazebo 55! It seriously took us forever to figure out a location and a resort, but we ended up going with Mexico for the sake of our friends and family  She's awesome. We are now less than 4 months away and I'm FREAKING out. I honestly thought a destination wedding would be a whole lot less planning (and I'm sure it is compared to a wedding in the States) butttttt I can't believe how much I still have left to do! Luckily I have this site, which has helped tremendously! 

I see that a lot of you are having issues with people backing out- I know how it feels, it is ridiculously annoying. We just recently had one of the groomsmen back out and his reason was that he was going on a trip to Hawaii and couldn't afford to do both. My FI considers him one of his close friends, so he is really bummed. I know I would be too if one of my girls backed out! Either way, now we have an uneven number of bridesmaids and groomsmen which bothers me a little, but I will live. We only invited about 40 people and about 10 of those we definitely knew would not come (grandparents, etc) so I'm estimating our number to be around 20. We really just wanted something small and intimate, that way we can concentrate more on the people who really matter, and make their trip unforgettable. And the way I see it, the fewer people that come, the more money we will have to spend on excursions, private events & such! 

Anyway, I just wanted to say hi to my fellow EDR brides! xx