djac

Really looking forward to our wedding in April at the RPTB. Didn't expect everything to be so pricey! We are having 60 guests... here's a little breakdown of costs so far... Riu Caprice Package $2205 [includes hair, mani/pedi, massage, flower petals, cake/chairs for 40, officiant etc) $12 fee for each guest over 40 ($12x20) $240 [to cover cake, extra chairs, and sparkling wine] Cocktail hour $450 [at an all inclusive??] Private Buffet ($55x60) $3300 [ouch] Lined Tent for tables and dance floor $1000 Smaller tent for buffett and bar $200 Open bar for 4 hours ($25x60) $1500 [at an all inclusive, yes] Chairs for reception ($6.25x60) $375 [apparently they need to rent chairs for us] In addition to those resort costs, I ordered real touch flowers from etsy for $400 and hired a local photographer for $1700 plus the $350 vendor fee. If we include our vacation packages, the dress, suit, etc this is easily a $15k affair. Much cheaper than domestic weddings, but I was expecting to stay under 10k. Sadly, resort fees are in USD, and the Canadian dollar isn't doing so hot right now, we'll also have to eat up the 10-15% exchange difference. I've decided the ocean and my beautiful bridesmaids will be pretty enough, I am not decorating the tables or chairs. I'm so suprised that in spite of bringing the resort 60 guests who are all staying 7 nights, that there are no $$$ incentives or breaks. All that aside, working with Sophia has been great she's on top of everything and replies within 48 hours. I've been searching high and low for a picture of the cake to know if its approrpriate to bring a topper and some fake flowers to put on it. Sophia told me it will be 3 tiers and white, although no pictures are available. If anyone has been to the RPTB or Riu Negril and has a picture of the cake can you please share? Has anyone been to Negril in April? Are there a lot of insects outdoors? If so we may have to cnsider renting out the steakhouse instead of the beach tents? Cheers to all the past and future brides. Wishing you all long happy marriages