FAQs
Question
What dates will you be in Mexico?
Answer
We're arriving in Playa del Carmen on Wednesday, January 31st and will stay at The Fives Beach Hotel and Residences through Wednesday, February 7th. Our room block is open for those dates so we encourage you to stay as long as you can! Personally, we would not recommend flying out on Monday, February 5th, because you likely won't be feeling great :)
Question
Can I bring a guest?
Answer
We want everyone to enjoy their vacation, so you are more than welcome to bring someone with you to Mexico. However, only named invitation guests are allowed at the wedding. We hope you understand as we would like to keep this as intimate as possible with our closest friends and family. When in doubt, just reach out to us!
Question
How do I RSVP?
Answer
You may RSVP directly through this website's RSVP page.
Question
What happens if I don't RSVP in time?
Answer
If we do not get an RSVP back by the date in which we provided, it will be marked as a "No." We will miss you celebrating with us, however we have to provide the total guest count to the venue in the timely manner they have given to us and cannot accept late RSVP's due to this. We hope that you understand!
Question
Is there a minimum amount of time you have to stay to take advantage of the room block rates?
Answer
Yes! There is a minimum of a 3-night stay to take advantage of the discounted room block rate. If you're only able to stay for 2 nights, please reach out to our travel agent, Carolisa Selmo of Barefoot Bridal, to see if she'd be able to negotiate with the resort. You can reach her at carolisa@barefootbridal.com or call 866-8-BAREFOOT (866-822-7336). Pro tip: February is high season in Mexico so we recommend to book your airfare and hotel as soon as possible!
Question
What is a room block?
Answer
A room block is a set number of rooms that we have locked in at a set price. It does not mean we will all be next to each other as there are different kinds of rooms to choose from within the block. Once all the rooms are spoken for in the room block, price is determined at the time of your booking or deposit. Our purpose of getting a room block is to have more social time together. We are planning wedding-related events at The Fives and guests who do not stay at the resort will have to purchase a $120 day pass per person to join the festivities.
Question
Do we have to stay with the room block?
Answer
To participate in all of the wedding-related activities, you must stay at The Fives Beach Hotel & Residences as part of the wedding group. If you opt not to stay with the group, you will have to purchase a day pass for The Fives for $120 per person.
Question
Why are you using a travel agent?
Answer
Our travel agent was able to secure us a much lower room block rate than what you will find online. They also book all of your airport transportation and will monitor your flight schedule and adjust your transportation if your flight is delayed. In short, she'll help out with travel logistics and makes life for all of us so much easier!
Question
Is the resort all-inclusive?
Answer
Yes! The Fives Beach Hotel and Residences is all-inclusive. Your room rate covers unlimited food and beverage (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) so get ready to gain a few pounds (or not)! Below are everything else that's included with your stay: 15 Bars & Restaurants | 7 Outdoor Pools | 24-Hour Room Service | Domestic and International Premium Liqueur | Complimentary Wi-Fi | Fitness Center (24/7 Adults Only) | Tennis Courts | Basketball Courts | Volleyball Courts | Kayaks and Snorkel Gear | Scuba Diving Clinics in the Pool | Concierge Service | Kids Club Playhouse | Live Entertainment Day and Night | And More...
Question
Is there a payment plan to help me budget?
Answer
Yes! Our travel agent, Carolisa Selmo, will be happy to arrange a payment plan free of charge. To contact her, you can email groups@barefootbridal.com, or call 866-8-BAREFOOT (866-822-7336).
Question
Is the wedding on the resort?
Answer
No. The wedding is at a private venue called Blue Venado Seaside in Puerto Aventuras. It's 30 minutes away from Playa del Carmen.
Question
What is the wedding attire?
Answer
Beach semi-formal. For inspiration, please visit this link: https://pin.it/5yMW0Dy
Question
What's the weather like?
Answer
February is typically sunny, mid-80's Fahrenheit/high 20s Celsius during the day. Evenings are usually high 60's F/low 20's C. As Playa del Carmen is in the Mexican Caribbean, it's not uncommon to have light rain showers from time to time. We suggest to bring a light jacket to keep you warm at night.
Question
Is there going to be a shuttle available to the wedding?
Answer
Yes! We are providing roundtrip transportation for all of our guests on our wedding day. Pick up and drop off will be at The Fives Beach Hotel and Residences. We'll keep you posted on pick up and drop off times as soon as we get details!
Question
Are the ceremony + reception at the same place?
Answer
Yes! During the transition time, we will have drinks, music, and mingling while the bride, groom, and their parties take their pictures.
Question
Is there a wedding hashtag?
Answer
#HellmerryGab - please use this on all of your socials so we can always look back on our special day with our most favorite people :)
Question
Can I use US Dollars or MXN Pesos in Mexico?
Answer
Either one works! Whichever is easiest for you, the resort staff is grateful for all tips. Mexican Pesos will get you better haggle prices if you are shopping.
Question
Do you have a wedding registry?
Answer
Your presence is enough of a present to us! We have not registered for any gifts, instead your gift to us will be attending our special wedding weekend. However, if you would like to mark the occasion of our marriage with a gift, then we would be more than grateful to receive a small contribution towards our first house fund to help us get started in our married life together. Please visit the 'Registry' page on this website for more details.
Question
Should I rent a car?
Answer
If you plan to do some exploring, then yes! The surrounding area is nice and safe for excursions and exploring. Public transportation is unreliable and taxi fares add up! Uber is not as convenient in Mexico as hotels in the area have a contract with taxi drivers to have cabs at the hotel to provide transportation. And Lyft does not operate in Mexico too. Another option is to join excursions. You can book this once you get to the resort or in advance through websites like Viator. From the airport, the drive to the resort takes approximately 35 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic and is a straight shot.
Question
Anything we should definitely bring?
Answer
Bring a bunch of $1 to tip the resort staff. It's not required but goes a long way in experiencing great service. I would estimate spending $20-$30 in tips a day. Also bring sunscreen and bug spray. It's ridiculously expensive at the resort ($50!). Reef safe sunscreen is required at some of the boat excursions.
Question
Is it safe to travel to Mexico?
Answer
Absolutely! The Cancun/Riviera Maya region is known to be safe and is a popular destination for tourists. Having visited the area three times ourselves, along with other parts of Mexico, we can confidently say that we have had wonderful and secure experiences. We understand that safety is a top priority for everyone, and we absolutely respect your decision if you choose not to come due to safety concerns. Your well-being is paramount to us, and we want you to feel comfortable and at ease during our celebration.
Question
Is Yogi coming?
Answer
Sadly, no :( I know, we're heartbroken too...but maybe he'll be represented in other ways :)