Costa Rica Wedding Planner's tips

You’re engaged, congratulations! Now what?

2013-03-07T17:40:00.000-05:00

It’s very common for us to get contacted by couples who just got engaged and are eager to start planning the big day; so what’s the next step?. Whether you want a small and intimate wedding or a large-scale celebration, there are several key aspects to cover before you can start looking into the little details.

Wondering where to begin? The most effective way to star planning your wedding is by having a checklist including all the necessary items you must cover in order to design your ideal wedding day!

Sit down with your future spouse and write down your responses to the following questions. Then, let your answers guide you through the planning process, from deciding on a venue to choosing a unique wedding favor.

DSTINATION / VENUE: name, address and website (we all know this decision will be extremely easy once you check out our beautiful, Hilton Papagayo Resort & Spa… wink, wink!)

CONTACT: name, phone and email

VENDORS – have you selected a…:

1. Lawyer (officiant), contact. Are the documents and vows complete?

2. Florist, contact, package select, additional flowers?

3. Photographer: contact, package, schedule?

DATE & PAYMENT:

1. Is our preferred day available?

2. How many other weddings or events will be booked that day?

3. Are there any planned constructions or renovation at the venue or surrounding areas that may affect your event?

4. What are the site’s fees, deposits and payment schedules?

5. Do costs vary by day or time (Saturday, Sunday / afternoon, evening)?

6. Are there any surcharges? Service charges and gratuities, cleaning fees, overtime rates, cake cutting, space rental fee, MC service.

7. What’s the cancellation policy? Is the deposit refundable?

FOOD, DRINK, DANCING & DÉCOR:

1. Can we use an outside caterer or weeding planner?

2. Does the site have a liquor license?

3. Can we bring in our own toast liquor? If so, how is it charged?

4. Is there room for a band, DJ and/or dance floor? Cost?

5. Can we modify the existing décor options in any way?

6. Are candles, sky lanterns, fireworks and/or confetti permitted?

RULES & REGULATIONS:

1. Who on staff will be our point person throughout the event?

2. Does the venue have insurance or do we need to get it?

3. Do we need any permits?

4. What are the restrictions? Minimum and maximum capacity, handicap accessibility, noise/timing, photography/flash/video.

5. What time can our vendors start setting up? What time do they need to leave?

This list is just a beginning to start building your perfect day. We will elaborate more on how to select the perfect venue and destination for your wedding on our next blog, so stay tuned!

Don’t forget you can always count on the professional, efficient and friendly hand that you will get from our wedding coordinator here at Hilton Papagayo.

To be continued…

Warm Regards!!!

The Perfect Timing!

2012-11-27T17:09:00.000-05:00

Have you been wondering – how should the flow go to make the most of your special day?

It is very common for us to get questions like: what time should we start, how long will the ceremony take, and many others regarding the best timing for your wedding day.

This is something that we customize according to each couple’s expectations and wishes, but we are pleased to guide you along way as to what works well. For the early birds, the perfect option could from a morning ceremony with bright sun and a refreshing morning sea breeze, and followed by one of our delicious brunch buffets accompanied with a station of mimosas, bloody Marys and smoothies!

Or go with the most popular Sunset Ceremony which will usually take place at 4:30pm, the ceremony will last about 20 minutes, allowing just over an hour for the post ceremony photo session with the breathtaking sunset to complement all of your pictures! This will usually go from 5:00pm to 6:00pm, in the mean time your guests can start enjoying your choice of signature cocktail and open bar, with a lounge set up right at the beach, with its private and intimate atmosphere, or at one of our open air locations, specially accommodated for private functions. By that time the music would start getting your guests into the “perfect night feeling” to celebrate your special union – music can be provided by a romantic latin trio, spun by a private DJ, or simply by your IPod with your selected play list according to your tastes. Now it’s time to really get in the spirit of the event with the Dinner Reception, there are many, details to cover with this such as menu, set up, decoration, entertainment, etc (that we will extend in another posts in our Blog, so stay tuned!!! ). We recommend that the Dinner Reception start by 6:00 or 6:30pm and last 3 or 4 hours, depending on your additional activities, like words by couple, best man and others… first dances, music, entertainment. The great thing is you can decide how much “tradition” you would like to incorporate into your special evening – everyting and anything goes! So don’t worry about whether you do or don’t do the garter toss, be free to enjoy as you wish! Then, your perfect and long dreamed of night could end with “the cherry on top” by having a Fireworks show, releasing wish lanterns or perhaps by having our classic beach bonfires at the beach, imagine?! You, your family and friends, under the stars, with the relaxing and harmonic sound of the sea, all this perfectly complemented with a sweet and smores station, marshmallows, chocolate covered fruit kebabs, caramel, “dulce de leche”, chocolate sauce and many others to be roasted on the bonfire… what could be more special????

Here at Hilton Papagayo while planning the timing of your special celebration we will ensure to provide you with all necessary tools, assistance and ideas looking to create the perfect wedding, what you have been dreaming of all your life!

Warm Regards!

Relive the Moment Contest!

2012-07-09T10:03:00.001-04:00

We would like to congratulate the winners and all participants who submitted pictures for our "Relive the Moment" contest. We asked all couples who got married at our property, to post their favorite picture taken on their special day. Sheli & Marc Plenge who got married on our Spa Beach on September 10, 2011, will be enjoying our Junior Suite w/ plunge pool during their complimentary 4 day, 3 night stay at our property for their anniversary in 2013!

Please check out our facebook page for our 2nd and 3rd place winners: facebook.com/hiltonpapagayo

Location, location, location!

2012-05-09T19:53:00.001-04:00

It is true that wedding details are important, but one detail that many tend to forget is… What’s next? Do we stay at the hotel after the wedding? Is there anything else to do outside of the resort? What about your guests – will they have the chance to have a vacation as well as attend our wedding? Sure… your family and friends come down to celebrate with you during your special day, but will that be the only highlight of their (and your!) trip? Yep…that’s a lot of questions… but don’t worry, Pura Vida, that’s why im here for.

Of course I can talk to you about our little slice of paradise we like to call Hilton Papagayo (the best resort out there by the way!), but instead, let me talk to you about what's around us. One thing is for sure, whatever time of year you come, take out your cameras, because Costa Rica is definitely Facebook worthy!

Between December and April, it is very rare for even a drop rain to fall in the area; therefore it’s commonly called the Gold Season. The rain starts creeping back in at the beginning of May, up to mid November, which is considered the Green Season. I have never seen a place that rain (yes, that weather that normally makes you want to stay in all day) brings smiles to everyone’s faces; this is because the area turns into a place that even locals feel that they have seen for the very first time. Lush and green, this incredible scenery is everything that you dreamed that Costa Rica would be. These short afternoon showers, in no way stop guests from hitting the zip lines, white water rafting trips, atv tours, and even mud baths! The Gold Season starts at the beginning of November, which is also great for many outdoor activities…like tanning of course! There is never a month that I would tell you “DON’T COME!” Rain or shine, Costa Rica looks beautiful, and I have no doubt that is magical place will surely surprise you.

Amazing highlights of the country can be experienced on tours such as white water rafting in Rio Tenorio, swimming in the majestic Rio Celeste, Cortes Waterfalls , Palo Verde National Park, Volcano Rincon de La Vieja, and Zip Lining at Congo Trail, are just some of the nearby activities that you can also enjoy. Reservations can easily be done on property, so don’t worry, PURA VIDA, everything is right here for you.

And if you prefer to venture out, rent a car with GPS (we have Alamo on site). Costa Rica is quite safe. I’m not saying to go dress like Mr. T. from the ATeam, rent a Benz and sick out your arm out the window with the next iPhone, but once you avoid actions such as these, you will get the opportunity to enjoy yourself. Remember, as the Ticos say…. Pura Vida.

Close to Hilton Papagayo (7 min), you can find a beach town called Playa Hermosa, where you can hang with the locals, enjoy local dishes such as a Cevichito or Arroz con Camarones. I won’t translate, I will let you Google that!

You can also visit Playa del Coco (10 min) from the hotel, where you can find great nightlife. It’s a fun little beach town with restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops.

You can explore Liberia, 25 minutes from the hotel. This is quite a large town (or small city) which is commonly called the heart of Guanacaste. Catholic Churches, Parks, Restaurants, Movie theaters, Universities, among others are found in this area...and for those who are not as adventurous; there are also fast food options, so you can get your McDonalds fix as well…

Why not take a 1 hour drive to the beautiful beaches of Tamarindo, famous for surfers, fun bars, large variety of restaurants and amazing sunsets.

These are just some suggestions, and believe me, there are many MORE. So EXPLORE and see what’s in STORE, tell your significant other “don’t be a CHORE”, and do something you have never done BEFORE!

As you can see, Costa Rica is a lovely destination that satisfies all tastes for you, your significant other, and your guests. Once you arrive, it a place that you will be talking about for years to come…

The dreaded "B" word......Budget!

2012-04-04T13:20:00.000-04:00

Every woman dreams with her wedding day, with that dress that makes her look like a princess, with the perfect place to say I do, and especially to find that special person with spend the rest of her life.

However, these dreams may be affected by one small detail: The budget.

There are so many things to organize, and most of the time you don´t know where to start, but a very important point is to know how much money you are going to set apart to organize the wedding of your dreams, without having to empty your pockets.

Here I’m going to give you some advice in making your wedding a great experience, without wondering if there will be any left for the honeymoon!

· First step is to talk with your groom about the details that you think are most important for your wedding

· Set the budget. This is the most important step because the other details are going to depend of it.

· Decide the style of wedding you would like.

· The wedding has a lot of details, like the invitations, "memories" for guests, etc. Try to save costs by making them by yourselves, its fun, involve family and friends, and you could take that money for something else (like those great flip flops you always wanted to wear under your wedding dress)!.

· Celebrate the ceremony, reception and honeymoon in one place, which will save you much money. Obviously...Hilton Papagayo is a great option.

The place where you will be having the big day is very important… Only imagine yourself, at the seashore, with a cooling breeze, while all of your guests are amazed at such a breathtaking backdrop of a sunset, that creates a silhouette of a match made in heaven. Sounds perfect doesn’t it? Like if we were talking about a scene out of The Notebook!? In Hilton Papagayo is possible, and you could be the stars!

We know that one’s budget is key, which at times to minimize the options that you always wanted, but it is also true that your wedding is YOUR WEDDING, and it may be something you have been dreaming every so long! So we have very attractive options that you should check out…

We want your wedding to be better than you ever dreamed, and that’s why we are open to see how we can provide options that fit into your budget.. this is what we refer to customizing your wedding to fit your budget.

Therefore never be afraid of the "B" word... we are here for you!

Getting Married in Costa Rica...Is it really that easy?

2012-02-08T23:59:00.000-05:00

We have received questions from couples asking how easy is it to get married in Costa Rica. Its as easy as saying "I Do!". Unlike countries like Mexico and Jamaica, where you require to present blood tests, length of stay prior to the wedding, and maybe even your birth certificate.... You might as well give them your social security number and your most recent family photo!... For Costa Rica the procedure is simple... all you will need is the following:

1. Scanned copies of current passports for Groom, Bride and Witnesses (obligatory / copies needed beforehand).

2. Two witnesses at the ceremony. Anyone serve you as witnesses even your close family or the Hotel employees (In case you do not have any witnesses the attorney’s office can provide them for you without any additional costs).

3. Fill out a simple wedding questionnaire (obligatory / needed beforehand)

Well that's easy! Isn't it?

After the ceremony, you will be given the marriage statement sent to the Costa Rican Civil Registry (the governmental institution which records the marriages in Costa Rica), officially translated into English. Therefore you would be able to submit this document to your Marriages Record Office and get your marriage filed in your Country once you get back home, without waiting for the registration process in Costa Rica to be concluded.

The registration process of a Civil Marriage in Costa Rica takes approximately three months after the wedding day. The official marriage certificate issued by the Costa Rican Civil Registry Office will be sent to you.

The marriage in Costa Rica is recognized in U.S.A. and Canada, and is considered a legal union anywhere in the world.

So whats taking you so long to come down and get married in paradise... were expecting you!

Should I have a full blown wedding or a sweet and simple elopement?

2011-11-29T07:39:00.001-05:00

It all depends. Our property is really a great place to do any of the two, but the most important thing, is your intention for having the wedding. Of course that you are getting married because you plan to spend the rest of your life with your “honey bun” “hubby” or “krispy crème” (so many nicknames!), but on the day of… there is a way you can choose to start it!

A large wedding is a great opportunity not only share your memorable experience with others, but also to thank all those friends and family, especially “Uncle Jimmy” (you know you have one in your family!). You can have so much fun at this type of wedding, because once you say I do, it’s time to enjoy a few drinks, eat great food and dance like a wild monkey! Its Costa Rica after all…

For elopements, its more about an intimate moment between the bride and groom, not having a worry in the world! If your “happy tears” start coming out a bit earlier than expected, and your mascara starts running a bit, it’s ok… If you start walking down the aisle and you forgot the bouquet back in the room while you are getting ready, it’s ok… if you tripped on the sand (without a cause in sight!) as you were gazing at your future husband, ITS OK! It’s your day, and you are sharing it with the only person that loves to see you just the way you are!

So as you can see, it all depends what you are looking for. After all, it is YOUR day! should somebody tell you different?

2012 Wedding packages: Spread the word!

2011-10-25T18:00:00.000-04:00

Our new 2012 Wedding Packages are finally here!

Here's the link to download the new Costa Rica weddings brochure.

Let your friends, family or your future husband/wife (wink wink) take a peek, and we will be helping you decide where on the beach you would like your ceremony to be in no time!

Look forward to hearing from you all. Remember you can email us at sjopa-salesadm@hilton.com, or visit the Hilton Papagayo Resort website for more information.

I finally found the one…but is Costa Rica the one?

2011-09-28T09:52:00.000-04:00

So why is Costa Rica better than any other place in the WORLD to get married? Let me give you some top 5 picks….

1. Miles away from bowties and fancy designer purses, this is one stress free wedding that will definitely make others jealous (spending only ½ the price!)

2. Why go with the plain jane white sand beach, where you literally see EVERYWHERE. Instead, get married in a volcanic sand beach, where towering green trees, exotic birds and the gentle Costa Rican sun may not have been on your guest list....but they are definitely welcome!

3. You can land in Costa Rica, and get married on the same day….and you thought Vegas was fun.

4. We give away free kisses on the cheek, even before we know the person’s name! We love to see your guests blush…

5. The PURA VIDA lifestyle. If you don’t know what this means, you don’t even know what you are missing!

Traditional wedding back home, or destination wedding + honeymoon in a tropical paradise?

2011-06-21T08:53:00.000-04:00

It has become quite common that we get wedding groups that will stay for a few nights, and have a wedding that guests just can’t stop talking about. Newlyweds then choose to continue their honeymoon in Costa Rica, checking out nearby destinations.

Why so?.... Why not!

What better place to enjoy it, when you have great places to do tours as a couple! Places such as zip lining over the canopies, enjoying naturally heated pools by a perfectly shaped volcano, getting a great snapshot while white water rafting, hiking trails in beautiful cloud forests as the afternoon mist reaches eye level, or simply watch the sun set over the horizon of the pacific coast of Costa Rica, as you hear howler monkeys and the chirps of parakeets from afar. You may have done one of these…but have you done all in one trip?....I didn’t think so!

On our property, there is so many “secret” places for newlyweds to really spend time together, but I can’t say it on this blog…because then it would be that much of a secret would it!

Tie in your honeymoon to your destination wedding. It really saves money, there are so many options, and nobody has to know where you are (leave that ipod/imac/ipad…isomething at home!)

Choose the color of your wedding

2011-06-15T21:14:00.001-04:00

We are currently working on our brand new (and unique) Costa Rica wedding packages. We have created a new concept called HILTON SIMPLIFY, allowing you to choose not only your wedding package ('Just Us' package, 'Only Us' package or 'With Us' package), but as well as pre set décor packages (Pristine, Serene, Earthly, Passion), additional wedding ideas & items, photography, and food & beverage.

At Hilton Papagayo, we understand how challenging it may be to plan a destination wedding, but it doesn’t have to be. Planning a wedding at Hilton Papagayo just got easier!

Look out for these new packages… Here's a sneek peek of our décor packages below!

The best marriage proposals...

2011-05-31T11:15:00.000-04:00

I'm not going to write much today... These videos speak for themselves. Enjoy!!

Are you crying yet?

We are preparing a post on the top weddings and wedding proposals in our Costa Rica resort... Stay tuned!

One image is worth a thousand words...

2011-05-06T09:00:00.000-04:00

Nothing... Just take a look!

I guess I should present myself…but, just because they told me

2011-05-05T21:24:00.000-04:00

Ok I’m really not the one to talk much about myself…but I am glad to see that you are visiting our blog, as we talk about the fun, amazing and truly memorable moments here at Hilton Papagayo Costa Rica Resort & Spa. We will also post pictures of past weddings, great ideas and lots of “unbelievable, but true” stories.

There was a little boy named from Andre Brathwaite from the island of Trinidad and Tobago, that lived in 5 different countries, and ended up in Costa Rica working as the Catering and Event Manager. That about sums it all up!

Ok…I guess I could tell you a bit more.

Working for more than 6 years in the hospitality industry, I specialize in Corporate, Incentive and Social Events, but also have had the opportunity to oversee many weddings! You may be jealous of me, because I may just have the best job out there…. (1)I have a great workspace – the beach, (2)I get a chance to meet amazing brides, grooms & guests, (3) help create unimaginable and whimsical ceremonies, cocktails and dinners, and (4) be part of something that a couple will never forget for the rest of their lives…oh and I forgot (5) being in PURA VIDA COSTA RICA!!!

Enjoy our blog, and feel free to send me an email anytime!

PS. If you have a friend having a “chilly” wedding up north, tell them – “that’s too bad, because Andre said that the only thing dropping in Costa Rica are coconuts!”

Andre Brathwaite

Phone: 506.2672.0000 Ext. 839 Fax: 506.2672.0133

andre.brathwaite@hilton.com

Wedding Details!

2011-05-05T20:49:00.000-04:00

What details should a bride keep in mind, when having a wedding at “our little slice of paradise” (Hilton Papagayo)?

“At Hilton Papagayo we do not only specialize in weddings, but also provide ample advice for those in need….GROOMS! I always tell the groom …if she asks for your opinion regarding wedding details, get involved (because you care)…but not too involved. Remember, it’s her day and that is all that matters!” Andre – Catering and Event Manager

CHECKLIST

Transportation to and from Liberia International Airport (20 min)

Room accommodations (special discounted rates apply for 10 rooms or more!)

No. of Guests:

ð Elopement

ð 14 people and Under

ð 15 people and Over

Wedding Date & Time:

ð Morning

ð Afternoon (Sunset)

Time and Event Schedule :

(Hair, Make-up, Photo Session #1, Ceremony, Photo Session #2, Cocktail, First Dance, Speeches, Dinner, Dance, etc…)

ð Ceremony

ð Cocktail

ð Private dinner

ð Dance (note – outdoor events must finish at 11 pm)

Wedding Location:

Beach (Why shoes when you can go…Barefoot!)

ð Ceremony ___ Cocktail ___ Dinner___

Green Area (What Costa Rica Stands For…)

ð Ceremony ___ Cocktail ___ Dinner___

Poolside (“Reflecting “the most memorable moment)

ð Ceremony ___ Cocktail ___ Dinner___

Indoor (Comfort is key)

ð Ceremony ___ Cocktail ___ Dinner___

Choose (1) Wedding Package

ð Only Us

ð Just Us

ð With Us

o Pristine

o Serene

o Earthly

o Passion

Documentation needed for Marriage License and Officiant (Included in all packages)

ð Marriage Vows

Set Up

ð Ceremony

o Aisle

o No Aisle

ð Cocktail

o Cocktail Tables

o Lounge Furniture

ð Dinner

o Round Tables

o Square Tables

o Rectangular Tables

o Sweetheart Table

Food & Beverage

ð Cocktail

o Canapés/ Hors d’ Oeuvres

o Open Bar

ð Dinner

o Plated (How many options will be given to guests?)

o Buffet

o Open Bar

o Wedding Cake

Wedding Colors

Décor

(Chairs, Chair Ties, Tables, Linen, Paper Lanterns, Lounge Sets, Tiki Torches, etc)

ð Ceremony Décor (Included in With Us package)

ð Cocktail Décor (Included in With Us package)

ð Dinner Décor (Included in With Us package)

Floral Décor

(Bouquet, Boutonniere, Aisle, Altar, Dinner and/or Cocktail Centerpieces, Floating Pool Arrangements, Cake Flowers, Flowers for Hair, etc)

ð Ceremony (Included in With Us package)

ð Cocktail (Included in With Us package)

ð Private dinner(Included in With Us package)

Photography/ Videographer

Music and Playlist

(DJ or Live Band, Recessional, Bridal Walk, Processional, First Dance, Bouquet Toss, etc..):

ð Ceremony

ð Cocktail

ð Private dinner

Spa Reservations on Wedding Day

ð Hair

ð Make Up

ð Manicure/ Pedicure

ð Massage

Additional Items and Ideas for your Destination Wedding

· Fireworks

· Local Children’s Dance Group

· Fire Dancers

· Cigar Rollers

· Chilled hand towels after ceremony

· Bonfire on the beach

· Gifts for Invited Guests (Gift Bags, Fun Umbrellas [rainy season], Disposable Cameras, etc)

· Tours and Off Property Activities (Fishing, White Water Rafting, Zip Lining, Surfing, etc)

· Spa Sessions with Bridesmaids

· Catamaran Sunset Cruise

· Welcome Cocktail Reception

· Private Rehearsal Dinner

· Brunch on the Beach

That’s just crazy!

2011-05-05T20:46:00.001-04:00

Top 7 fun & unbelievable wedding moments I’ve experienced at Hilton Papagayo .

by Andre Brathwaite – Catering and Event Manager

· Getting married, groom jumps in the pool right after dinner, and loses his wedding ring….after 30 minutes of touching the floor of the pool with his toes, finds the ring!

· Groom cancelling the entire wedding on wedding day, and 5 hours later (after everything was cancelled), asks for it to be reinstated the next day…and to this day they are still happily married

· Seeing a 70 yr old father of the bride break dancing. Show them what you got!

· Groom forgets the rings in the room safe, while the ceremony was still in progress!

· Being given a “small gift” by a bird right on my shirt, as I walk up to the groom to inform him that the ceremony will be starting. They say it’s good luck…for who may I ask!?

· Topping off the night by seeing the bride, groom and 60 wedding guests jumping into our Vida Pool at 10 pm.

Coming soon!

2011-04-22T10:08:00.000-04:00

The Wedding Planner at the Hilton Papagayo Costa Rica Resort & Spa is preparing the best tips for your wedding... the best venues, useful tips, making your wedding the most special one, and much more!

We'll start on mid-may... See you later!