The Couple
Vanessa spent her early childhood in Williamsburg, Brooklyn where she lived in a brownstone with her mother Aida, father Edwin and older sister Naomi. Her Aunt Irma, Uncle Louie and three older cousins lived downstairs. Despite the fact that she spent only a few years there, this is where most of her memories are of life in Brooklyn. Living in the same house with extended family always provided something to do and created great memories. Later Vanessa’s family moved to a condominium in the Lower East Side of Manhattan where she spent the next 23 years of her life. Vanessa has a degree in Fashion Marketing and Advertising Design from New York City College of Technology. Vanessa's passions are art, fashion, and animals. Filled with art and cultural diversity, the Lower East Side was a perfect fit for her passions.
Ernie was born in Astoria, Queens and raised in the Bronx together with his parents Ernesto and Gladys and his two brothers, Eddie and Danny. He had the wonderful opportunity to attend private Catholic schools from grade school through college. Ernie graduated from Iona College in 2002 with his bachelors in Business Management and is now pursuing his Masters in Marketing with a certificate in Sports and Entertainment Business. He enjoys playing softball, basketball and anything else he can get involved with.
During her college years, Vanessa worked part time at an advertising company where she met Ernie. They were acquaintances for about 2 years when their paths began to cross more and more. As you already have guessed, this led to their first date on September 5th 2006. Vanessa knew after that first date that she would go out with Ernie again because they found they had so much in common. Since that time they have been inseparable!
After his first date Ernie was surprised at how much he and Vanessa had in common but the thing that surprised him most was that she loved camping. Secretly he thought Vanessa was a total “city” girl so finding out they had both grown up going to campgrounds was a definite plus. As Ernie and Vanessa got to know each other better they realized some really important things about each other. Ernie learned Vanessa was not as “high maintenance” as he’d thought and Vanessa realized Ernie was not as “serious” as he appeared to be at work. They think that it just goes to show you, “opposites do attract”!
The biggest surprise of their relationship was when Ernie set up a small family gathering at Vanessa’s parent’s house to celebrate her 29th birthday. As everyone was watching a video that she thought her best friend Claudette had made for her as a gift, a note from Ernie appeared on the screen and the next thing she knew he was down on one knee in front of her and her entire family! Vanessa couldn't stop crying.
Here is what they have learned about each other:
| Vanessa says, “Ernie is generous, strong, smart, determined and funny. I look up to him and I am blessed to be with him. He always makes me laugh." |
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| Ernie says, “Vanessa is honest, selfless and a kind hearted person. She has changed my life and I am thankful that she is a part of it." |
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The Destination
Punta Cana is located on the Eastern most tip of the island of the Dominican Republic. It is known for 20 miles of white sand beaches and beautiful clear blue waters all set with a backdrop of swaying palm tress. Columbus sighted its coral edged coastline on his first voyage to the New World and pronounced: "There is no more beautiful island in the world".
Nestled amid Cuba, Jamaica and Puerto Rico in the heart of the Caribbean archipelago, the island of Hispaniola (Little Spain) is divided between Haiti, on the westernmost third of the island, and the Dominican Republic, which has the landmass about the size of Vermont and New Hampshire combined. The Dominican Republic is the second largest Caribbean country (second only to Cuba). Average temperature is 82 degrees year round and it rarely rains during the day!
The Dominican Republic has its own distinct cuisine and cultural heritage. Many Europeans (especially Spaniards) rushed to take advantage of Punta Cana's desirable climate. The official language is Spanish as are many of the traditions like the siesta. Dominicans will extend a gracious welcome, saying, "This is your home!" and indeep are happy to share what they have, which is a physically beautiful island. You will find the people of the Dominican Republic among the friendliest in the Caribbean and their warm hospitality is genuine.
Visitor Information
There are several international airports in the Dominican Republic so it is important to arrange your travel so that you are flying into the one closest to your final destinations. Flying into the wrong airport or selecting the airport by the price of the ticket can be a huge mistake. The island is large and without highways as we know them so what looks "not that far" on a map can be hours of travel time over dirt roads. If you decide to book your own flights please make sure you flying into the Punta Cana airport not any of the other to avoid long and expensive transfers.
For your safety, drink only bottled water, eat food only at the resort. Water served at all restaurants on the property has been purified, this includes all ice put in drinks.
The official money of the Dominican Republic is the Dominican peso or RD$. The US dollar is widely accepted however your change will be in pesos. If you do not plan to travel off the all-inclusive property you will not need to exchange money. If you wish to adventure off property, it is better to exchange some money at either the airport or a bank. Hotel's will exchange for you however their rate of exchange is least favorable (that is your money will go farther if you exchange at the airport or bank). Businesses will commonly take credit card.
As of December 31, 2006, all US citizens must carry a valid passport to travel to the Caribbean. If you do not have a passport, Sue and Paul will provide you with the necessary forms and directions for obtaining one.
Before entering the country you will be required to fill out disembarkation forms. These must be filled out before entering the immigration line where you will present your passport.
Prior to entering the immigration line you will also be required to purchase a Tourist Card. It is essential that visitors have $10 US dollars for each member of their party with which to pay for this. No coins or other currency, including Domincan pesos can be used. ATM's are not available and travelers cheques and credits cards are not accepted. The tourist card is good for 15 days. Do not toss or lose this card as you must return it when you leave the country. If you do not have a tourist card to turn in, you will be required to purchase another prior to departure.
Electricity on the island operates at 110 Volts, the same as in the US. Converters are not needed but surge protectors are highly recommended due to the occasional voltage irregularity.
The international telephone access code for the Dominican Republic is 809, followed by a seven digit number. Many cellular phones from the US work here but higher charges may apply. If you are planning to take and use your phone, check your carrier prior to travel.
Punta Cana is one of the safest regions of the Dominican Republic. Here a pot salesman is more often a boy hawking shiny, stainless steel pots than anything illegal. However, should anyone approach you to buy drugs, know that the penalties in this country are extremely tough and include jail, fines and no parole. Do not think of bringing anything from home. Lock all valuables in your hotel safe.
The island enjoys warm tropical weather year round. An average day may see full sun or a sun/cloud mix. The average year-round temperatures are 78 - 88 degrees Fahrenheit so take sunscreen and don't forget to put it on. Sunburn or sun poisoning can ruin a totally wonderful wedding celebration. Drink plenty of bottled water to avoid dehydration and most importantly, have a wonderful time.
Things to do
The pictures say a thousand words! Enjoy the beach, the sun and the wonderful sunrises and sunsets.
The Dominican Republic has some of the best golf courses in the Caribbean. If you are interested in reserving a tee time, we can help arrange it for you.
Horseback riding is a popular excursion in the Dominican Republic. Imagine yourself riding through groves of coconut palms and onto the beach.
The Saona Island tour is not to be missed. Imagine yourself stretched on a catamaran deck as a gentle breeze whisks you away to the most incredible island off the coast of the Dominican Republic. Settle in for a day of relaxing fun and adventure. White sand beaches with hammocks where you can sleep lazily. Dance to the Merengue beat or play volleyball. Of course don't forget you swim suit, the shallow water is perfect for water activities. Enjoy a wonderful lunch under the shade of the palm tree huts. Then get ready for an exciting speed boat ride back to your resort. But wait...a quick stop at the Taino Princess waist-deep pool in the middle of the sea is the perfect opportunity to see huge starfish!
Helicopter tours, ATV tours and the most popular monster truck/Outback Safari tours are all available for the more adventerous.
The monster truck tour allows you to see the Dominican Republic while driving on the back country roads. You will be crossing roads, crossing rivers, streams, and passing through sugar cane fields. There are stops at a local village where you can interact with the Dominican people and visit a local school. There is a buffet lunch, (ranch style) followed by a refreshing swim at a beautiful river where you can try tubing in the cool water. This is a full day tour to really see and enjoy the countryside. Inclusions: The hot buffet lunch consists of pork chops, rice, beans, cold salads, and fruit. The drinks provided and included all day are bottled water, Pepsi, 7-Up, Rum and beer. Tour is not recommended for young children and is not wheelchair accessible, Suggested items to bring: Sun Lotion, insect repellent, towels, swim suit, camera and a hat. Doesn't that sound fun!!
If you would like to arrange any of these tours during your stay or you'd like to plan a group outing, just let Sue or Paul know and they can help arrange. Pre-booking assures your spot on some of the very popular tours.
Accomodations
Vanessa and Ernie have chosen the Melia Caribe Tropical Resort as the site for their wedding celebration.
Located about 20 minutes from the airport, The Melia Caribe Tropical is a family friendly, All Inclusive resort nestled in an oasis of lush tropical palms.
An eco zone runs through the middle of the hotel, pristinely spearing the main hotel from the lovely beach and pool areas.
The Melia Caribe Tropical is located right on Bavaro Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. Here you will find about 25 miles of fine white sand, uncountable palm trees and of course, the crystal clear blue Caribbean water.
Vanessa and Ernie have secured a block of Deluxe Junior Suite Rooms for your stay. The Deluxe Junior Suite is equipped with 1 King or 2 Doubles. All rooms have air conditioning, in room safes, a patio or balcony and of course the complimentary stocked mini-bar. The rooms accommodate up to 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children. If you prefer to upgrade to a suite or to the hotel’s Royal Service all you have to do is ask.
The optional upgrade to Royal Service includes: *Private check-in and check-out lounge
*Special in-room amenities, like pillow and butler menu
*Access to private pool and beach area with concierge services
*Private transportation to the beach
*Access to Royal Service lounge offering: Light continental breakfast (full continental and American breakfast available at the GABI Club), Free internet access on existing lounge computers, All day coffee and tea services, Select premium branded options on spirits and liquors, Special chef selection of hors d'oeuvres throughout the day, Butler and concierge assistant services
*Room Service from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
*Access to 'The Gabi Club' a large lagoon style pool with Bali beds and sanded beach style solarium area and restaurant for A La Carte breakfast, lunch and dinner, Pool snack bar, nightly entertainment and bar service.
To make a reservation, call or email Sue or Paul at GetAway Travel Service (262-538-1240) and make your reservation. A $150 per person deposit is required to hold your room.
You will not go hungry at the Melia Caribe Tropical, as a matter of fact you will probably not have time to try all 10 of the restaurants available to you. No matter what you are hungry for, there is something for everyone. Just to wet your appetite here is a list of the places to enjoy.
* Market Place: featuring six different live cooking buffets air conditioned facilities: open for breakfast, lunch and dinner
*La Gondola - Continental breakfast, Italian buffet lunch and dinner offering pizza and pasta specialties, and midnight snack.
*El Turey Grill and La Angora Grill - Beach grills located just a few steps from the swimming pool and right on the beach offering a sumptuous international buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner, sandwiches, hot dogs and other snacks.
*Le Gourmet - International gourmet specialties.
*Ma Maison - Traditional French Style restaurant and services.
*Hokkaido - Japanese restaurant with three special rooms with sushi and Teppanyaki show tables, reservations may be required.
*La Pagoda - Asian fusion with strong Thai influence.
*Capri - Fish and seafood from Caribbean seas. Open for dinner, lobster every night.
*American Grill - American cuisine.
*El Guarapo - Traditional colonial Dominican home-made cuisine.
*La Hacienda - Premium traditional Mexican restaurant.
*The Gabi Club - A La Carte Contemporary Cuisine. Additional charges apply. Is included for Royal Service guests.
And what will you do when you aren’t eating? Well besides enjoying the company of family and friends and of course attending Ernie and Vanessa’s beautiful wedding there are lots of things to do at the resort.
For starters the property offers nightly entertainment with live music and a different show every night. You might want to hit the casino to lose a couple buck, oops we mean win a couple!
Lay in the beach or at one of the ten pools to get a really good tan but please be sure to take sunscreen. You don’t want to look like a lobster in those wedding photos!
And remember pools are for swimming and hanging at the swim up bar.
You might want to hit the tennis courts for a quick game or perhaps the fitness center, sauna and steam room are more your style. All are included in your package. For those who prefer a nice spa treatment, the Melia Caribe Tropical has wonderful treatments to choose from. Spa services are extra.
For the golfers in the group, 27 holes are available on site. Carts are available. Guests staying 3 or 4 nights receive 1 complimentary round, Guests staying 5 nights or longer receive 2 complimentary rounds. Mandatory golf cart not included, payable to the hotel. Tips, food and beverage consumption are not included at the golf course. Maximum handicap 36. Green fee subject to availability, reservations required. Limit 2 guests per room.
For the kids in the group, there is a wonderful Flinstones Land Kid’s Club. Go back in time and hang out with the modern Stone Age family- Fred, Wilma, Barney, Betty and Dino too. Children become part of the Flintstones family from the moment they arrive. Children will receive a gift at the mini-check in and are registered in one of the clubs, suited for their age. Other amenities: Betty's Kitchen (breakfast and lunch), Yabba-Dabba-Doo Bazaar (gifts and fashion items), RocAdventure and Roca Flash.
Bamm-Bamm Club-for children 5-8 years, have their own game room and playground. Kids can participate in stimulating activities, including pool games, camping, T-shirt painting, balloon art, costume and magic workshops.
The Cool Club-for older children 9-13 years, features competitive outdoor activities, pool games, camping, workshops and sports.
One final note about the resort, they do have a fairly aggressive time share pitch. Upon check in they will “entice with free stuff” to hear more about what they have to offer. Unless you want to spend several hours away from the beach and fun we advise you tell them firmly that you are not interested and they will leave you alone.
The Destination Wedding
Many people ask what they should wear to a destination wedding. Keep in mind the temperatures on the island when selecting your attire. Vanessa and Ernie are planning a casually elegant ceremony. Men will want to wear lightweight slacks and short sleeved shirts. No ties or jackets are necessary. Ladies might want to choose sun dress or dressy capri pant outfit. For footwear, we recommend sandals. The couple request no tank tops or beachwear please.
Details of the wedding are still being worked out but getting your reservation to attend is very easy. Simply call or email Sue or Paul Adams to arrange. A small deposit of $150 per person holds your spot and an easy payment plan is available if you would like. There are many benefits to booking within the blocked space but the most important one is that you are then listed as a member of the wedding group and any added benefits that might bring. Guests booking outside this space will unfortunately not be listed. The blocked space will only be held for a set amount of time so don’t delay, we don’t want you to be disappointed.
Please discuss optional travel insurance with Sue or Paul. It is available and strongly recommended.
Vanessa and Ernie are excited about the destination wedding experience they have chosen and hope that you will consider joining them on this adventure as the begin their new life together.
Sue and Paul look forward to hearing from you and will assist in any way to make your participation a reality!
Torres & Zambrano Wedding
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