Back from my wedding at the Barcelo Maya

[MagsieMexico]

I spent about 9K with the Barcelo directly for 80 guests, the rest was photographer, dress, OOT bags, flights all that stuff that you can control.

 

The Barcelo was VERY clear with me when we go there, and we picked extras that we didn't have to. But it was all stuff that I knew, and was VERY similar to what I calculated it being (there were slight differences and I upgraded some stuff when I got there: Again, you wouldn't have to do that!).

 

So, I can't think of any hidden costs...

And I'm SURE yours will flow perfectly. I was really worried about having a 1.5 to 2 hour cocktail hour, but we had mariachis and it ended up just being a great part of the party!

[morenaindc]

Well ladies....i need some planning ideas! my wed is at one and dinner recption not until 630. what should i do

[MagsieMexico]

Is everyone staying at the Barcelo? If so, I'd say just plan something with your nearest and dearest in the afternoon but basically release everyone after the cocktail hour and return for dinner reception. I think it's too long to have everyone wait around, and since nobody has to go very far and can easily get back to rooms etc, you may as well just break and regroup in the evening, everyone may be glad for the break. Kind of two parties - one with cocktail hour and ceremony, and one with the big dinner and party, with an interval to relax in the middle! Sounds good actually!

[Amarillis]

Fantastic Review! I love your photos! You looked RADIANT!

[2009bride]

Hey Margaret,

What kind of ceremoney did you have? I'm thinking about having a nonlegal ceremony but I'm not sure how that works - if I do that I would want none of my guests to know that we didn't get "officially" married there. Wonder if someone would find out or know the difference somehow.

 

Also, I'm staying at the Colonial. Just wondering.. if I decided to have my ceremony/reception at the Palace if that could be accomodated. Probably not but in case you know let me know.

 

Thanks!

[Jen_S]

Great review you make me wish our wedding was closer. Congrats!

[Davematthews16]

I'm getting married at the Palace in January 2009. You have me even more excited now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I CAN'T WAIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[morenaindc]

yes Magsie, everyone is staying at the Barcelo...and what you suggested is a great way to stage it Magsie...how did things "flow" from your ceremony to reception? Was it a natural thing?

[Aphrodytie]

I am having the same thing, ceremony at one (because we are going off site for photos afterwards) and reception later. I think we are just going to release everyone. I went to a wedding in the Dominican last year and they did the same thing and it was nice to be able to go for a swim, or a nap before the reception

[MagsieMexico]

Thanks everyone, it was fantastic!

 

My timing was ceremony at 4.30, cocktail hour from 5.00 to 6.30, Reception at 6.30, so it flowed really well! It was fantastic.

 

but, I think just from going to weddings on my own it would be great to have a break in the afternoon.

 

As for the palace vs colonial, I think you'd probably be fine changing. They kept moving us around between them, soI think they're really flexible!

 

Good luck!