RachelTX

I made some table runners this weekend as well. There were some really great ones on etsy that didn't cost too much...but my mom did some searching and we made three extra long runners and four small center pieces for cocktail tables for less than $40!! The picture isn't that great....but you get the idea

http://www.honeyfund.com/ this is the one I saw...it looks GREAT. Says there are no set up fees or transaction fees. I'm not using it, so I don't know anything first hand, had just seen it in a bridal magazine and had made note of it. Hope this helps!

I saw a couple of free ones in a bridal magazine several months back...I will see if I can find them again!!

Yes!! Oriental Trading Company....$11.50 for 24. http://www.orientaltrading.com/design-your-own-wood-maracas-a2-57_1020-12-1.fltr?Ntt=maracas Be sure to search online for a coupon code before purchasing, I found one and got free shipping.

alright...I just finished my first DIY yesterday and I am in love with it!!! I painted mini maracas for decorations and then gift for my guest. It took most of the day to complete, but it was a SUPER cheap project!!

Let me try that again.....

Hi ladies- I know many of you plan to go into Cancun to buy Maracas...I decided to personalize my own. I got the mini maracas from Oriental Trading, and I must admit they are TINY....but once I got them all done I am in love with them!! and it was such a cheap project!!! Just thought I would share

Your website looks good I agree with you about registering....but since a lot of my friends will be unable to attend and are throwing a bridal shower, they've insisted. This is the wording I've used on my wedding website....feel free to steal it if you want. I think its a nice way to say...hey, I don't expect you to get me something, but if you insist here are some things we could use.... Each of you are the reason we are who we are. There is no doubt you had a huge part in bringing us together. So what we want most for this wedding is to have all of our family & friends in the same place at the same time and to be able to celebrate with you. Your presence is the best possible present. That said, if you really would like to get us something to keep (other than fun memories), we are registered at: Hope that helps!

Thanks for sharing! I am having my hair and make up done as well by the spa so this is helpful. Is that a real flower in your hair?

My wedding is January 26, 2013...it's not on the latest posted list.

Jenna- Did you do the Exotic Gazeebo? I like the way your gazeebo looks, I didn't think I liked the candy stripes from the picture on Lomas, but since it has the sheers over the top and sides as well I like it!

Jenna- Thanks for sharing your pictures!!! You looked beautiful and everything looks like it was perfect. Makes me so excited!! I can't wait for my big day!

Since you have your RSVP online can you send out a gentle reminder email? I find that sometimes if I have an email with a link to click I'll go do it immediately. If I have to find the invitation and type in the link myself I just keep putting it off. I know, that's really lazy of me....but..I bet a lot of people are like that.....it might be worth a try. Sorry for your frustrations!

I would LOVE to have fire dancers, but just can't justify the $$. We are actually going really simple. We are not having a private reception at all. We are using our dinner reservation for our reception, then heading over to whichever bar we've decided we like the best. We currently have 30 joining us, and we are a pretty fun bunch...figure we can make it a party where ever we go. We are doing just the smallest 2 person cake for the "traditionalness" of it and I'm thinking we'll do a first dance on the beach immediately following the ceremony. My FI and I just can't see spending all that extra money, when everyone has spent so much for their food and drinks already.

If you are using a travel agent, check and see if they are GI Wedding Consultant. If they are you can get a free cocktail reception (which I am using as a rehearsal/welcome cocktail party), photographer credit, or spa credit. Definitely check into it!! Otherwise all reception/cocktail hours are in addition to your wedding package.

Fire Dancers are $1300 for 45 minutes. Mariachi band (6 members) 45 minutes, $900.

wishing I lived in Canada right now!!!! I NEVER see them on sale in the US

As long as someone in your party has booked a premium room....and I believe that it can be multiple rooms, totaling 7 nights. So if two people in your party had a premium room one for 3 nights and one for 4 nights you would qualify. I'm pretty sure that is what I understand. Hope this helps

Excellent! Thanks! I didn't know if I was going to have to snag it secretively or not so that is good to know.

In my opinion, I think it would be great to get them each something that they are interested in and would actually like/use. I say go for it!! It's more personal that way as well.

Is anyone familiar with wish lanterns? https://wishlantern.3dcartstores.com/eco-wish-lanterns I really wanted to have one of these for each couple who is at my wedding to release at the end of the ceremony, wouldn't that be beautiful! However when I asked Amanda about it she said they were not allowed. I've decided to go ahead and order one to take with me, I can then ask when on the property for permission, just do it, or walk down the beach a bit to be off property. They appear to be really safe and are biodegradable. I could ask Elizabeth, but don't really want to be told no again and then just do it anyways, ha. Has anyone had these at their wedding or had any other feedback from wedding coordinators?