Chapel in the Clouds, and other suggestions needed....

roxiemoxie09 · September 2011

As a kid, I loved the idea of running off to Vegas to get married. The idea of planning a big wedding just didnt appeal to me, and Vegas just seemed easy. However now that I'm engaged and planning the "elopement", I'm shocked by how much planning is still needed. So far I've only nailed down the place, Chapel in the Clouds (probably May 2012). I like the idea of getting married 100+ stories up, and the prices compared to everything else seem very reasonable. I will have about 20 people attending and all paying their own way (food, lodging, etc). Since the airfare and lodging alone will be pricey, I'm trying to keep the rest of the costs down for all of us. Now is where I need a bit of advice. For a wedding in Vegas, anyone know whats the bare minimum (and i mean the BARE MINIMUM) of planning I need to do? Any tips and suggestions are much appreciated.

note: I'm not having a reception, but probably just dinner after the ceremony and clubbing that night.

mackie1604 · September 2011

First things first, Congrats.

We were just in vegas, planning our wedding on Nov 12. Let me say, its exhausting.

Since you aren't having a reception, you should be able to accomplish everything at the Stratosphere. We actually had dinner at their TOP OF THE WORLD restaurant on Thursday and it was awesome. Amazing views. They also host private dinners as well if needed. We wanted to host our reception there but we had a couple guests who were afraid of heights.

20 people would be great and I don't think they have a minimum to reserve the private dining space. Contact TOP OF THE WORLD for sure and get a quote from them.

Also, I know when we spoke to them about hosting our reception they said you get free access to the observation deck and clubs.

vegasgroom · September 2011

I apologize in advance if you're not a vendor trying to advertise for Chapel in the Clouds but there are some characteristics of your post that hint at that which means this thread will disappear if it ends up being the case.

Anyway, if you're booking a chapel and inviting guests, you're not eloping to begin with, you're having a wedding. Since you are having a wedding, but don't want to put in any effort to plan for it and will be expecting your guests to pay for everything, you may be better off eloping and just having a private ceremony at that venue if that's what you want; then you don't have to do any planning other than booking your room. If you're getting married at the Stratosphere already, I wouldn't consider their rooms to be expensive but there are off-strip hotels you could use if you did want something that is priced less.

It would be a lot easier to give you some recommendations if you tell us what your budget is as that should be the first thing you decide on and base everything else around that; it prevents a lot of problems later.

Natrasha · September 2011

Welcome!

I have to repeat the previous posts though- if you're having guests, you're having a wedding. Which means, you should host something for them as a thank you. There are lots of ideas around this board, like renting a big suite and having everyone over for cocktails and food.

Booking a package with a hotel chapel makes things easier because you tell them what you want, and they do it- want a bouquet? Done. Want a photographer? Done. The downside is you pay for this convenience. But as a bride who has "built" her ceremony from the ground up, there's something to be said for not researching and contacting tons of vendors!

lsvensson · September 2011

Are you intending to cover dinner post-ceremony for your guests?

As far as 5-star hotels/honeymoon suites go, the Ventian is nice as it's an all-suite property, as is the Wynn (Wiwicaty stayed in a suite there, I believe), and the Mandalay Bay has some nice suites (Vista Suites) as well that could make for a fun "honeymoon" night.

arrestclementine · September 2011

You're not going to at least pay for a meal for them?

lsvensson · September 2011

In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/local-wedding-boards_nevada-las-vegas_chapel-clouds-other-suggestions-needed?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Local%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:91Discussion:ddd66c52-43ac-43d7-9f1d-d3163b64385fPost:0f08a5ca-8d5d-42d1-a094-1db8c3aa7993">Re: Chapel in the Clouds, and other suggestions needed....</a>:
[QUOTE]You're not going to at least pay for a meal for them?
Posted by amber0389[/QUOTE]

<div>I second this. If they're traveling all the way to see you get married (even if that wasn't your original intention), you should at least pay for one meal for them. Otherwise you might want to express the fact that you're having a private elopement.</div><div>
</div><div>Edited as my original response was a bit harsh.</div>

nycheryl · September 2011

In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/local-wedding-boards_nevada-las-vegas_chapel-clouds-other-suggestions-needed?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Local%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:91Discussion:ddd66c52-43ac-43d7-9f1d-d3163b64385fPost:2a5341d0-03d4-4272-80b2-325a32cceb76">Re: Chapel in the Clouds, and other suggestions needed....</a>:
[QUOTE]Besides, much of my family makes more than what my fiance and I make so it wouldnt make sense to put ourselves in the poor house when we're about to start a new life together.
Posted by roxiemoxie09[/QUOTE]

I don't get that logic at all. I would assume the vast majority of couples have guests who "make more money" than they do... but it's still the polite thing to do to host a meal.

If you truly want your no frills wedding and can't "afford" to pay for dinner for people who fly across the country to celebrate with you, you probably shouldn't invite anyone at all. Then you're killing two birds with one stone - save money and get that elopement you've always wanted!

wiwicaty · September 2011

In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/local-wedding-boards_nevada-las-vegas_chapel-clouds-other-suggestions-needed?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Local%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:91Discussion:ddd66c52-43ac-43d7-9f1d-d3163b64385fPost:2a5341d0-03d4-4272-80b2-325a32cceb76">Re: Chapel in the Clouds, and other suggestions needed....</a>:
[QUOTE]I've been to Mandalay, but I had a bad previous experience there due to a past boyfriend. Many have told me to go to the Venetian, but I think I may check out Wynn too. I saw another post talking about it and its got my curiosity. I don't remember seeing Wynn last time I went to Vegas (about 3 years ago), so I'm guessing its new hotel. <strong>As for covering any expenses, I'm not. If my guests can't afford it, then theyre SOL. Not to be mean, but the way I see it, this is mine and my husband-to-be's day.</strong> My family understands I'd like to share it with them, but I wont put constraints on whats going to be my only wedding. Besides, much of my family makes more than what my fiance and I make so it wouldnt make sense to put ourselves in the poor house when we're about to start a new life together.
Posted by roxiemoxie09[/QUOTE]

<div>I would be the one with the Wynn reviews... you're welcome to check out my bio. (link in my signature)</div><div>
</div><div>That said, don't take it personally.. what I'm about to say has been repeated countless times on these boards so keep an open mind towards whatever comment you're about to get on the bolded part of your post.</div><div>The "it's MY day" mentality isn't validated here. You wedding day is about a lot more than just about you the very second you include others and are responsible for their comfort. It's an act of grace and manners to thank your guests for making the "effort" to witness you getting married by hosting them at what can be a simple champagne and cake reception. I strongly urge you to consider being a graceful bride.</div><div>It's selfish, childish and rude to be wanting your PPD (Pretty Princess Day) and then basically give the finger to your guests 'cause you don't want to spend money on them.</div><div>
</div><div>edited for better wording</div>

nycheryl · September 2011

Another thought - your guests are likely to spend the following:

-$1000 for flights (for a couple)
-$500 for hotel
-$300 for food and other expenses
-$100 for a gift

Is it really that painful to spend $50 (average) on a meal for people? I don't understand, especially since you said your budget is $7k-$10k and you're willing to stay in a 5 star resort.

direy25 · September 2011

In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/local-wedding-boards_nevada-las-vegas_chapel-clouds-other-suggestions-needed?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Local Wedding BoardsForum:91Discussion:ddd66c52-43ac-43d7-9f1d-d3163b64385fPost:42f71567-70f1-4890-8ac2-f9cf0a8ca1a9">Re: Chapel in the Clouds, and other suggestions needed....</a>:
[QUOTE]In Response to Re: Chapel in the Clouds, and other suggestions needed.... : I don't get that logic at all. I would assume the vast majority of couples have guests who "make more money" than they do... but it's still the polite thing to do to host a meal. If you truly want your no frills wedding and can't "afford" to pay for dinner for people who fly across the country to celebrate with you, you probably shouldn't invite anyone at all. Then you're killing two birds with one stone - save money and get that elopement you've always wanted!
Posted by nycheryl[/QUOTE]
Ditto all of this.

phoumipower · September 2011

You should go to Vegas Stripper University! Thats where im hosting my sisters bachelorette party! The Vegas Stripper University is an "interactive show" and they even give you a diploma at the end when you graduate! Ive checked out other stripper studios in las vegas and Las vegas stripper poles is definitely the nicest. all the other ones were cramped and you had to share poles. I live in vegas so i know this is the best!

The name of the business is Las Vegas Stripper Poles. their website is www.lasvegasstripperpoles.comand their phone number is 702-360-3756

Natrasha · September 2011

Now THAT is a vendor.^^ Reported.

But yes, you should treat your guests to a meal. It doesn't have to be outrageously expensive. There are plenty of options in Vegas that can be near to $20-$30 per person for food.

smokeybailey · September 2011

If you are having guests at your wedding, you need to receive them. You can do an in-suite reception with food, beer and wine for less than $1500 (I did that for 29).

It's poor form to invite people to a wedding and then expect them to pay their own way to the reception. That's not a reception. If you want to elope, then do it. If you want a small wedding then do THAT but don't leave your guests out in the cold.

Also, I stayed at a fantastic suite at the Golden Nugget. They are a AAA 4 diamond resort and you get a lot of bang to your buck. You could do an insuite in one of the spa tower suites or dinner at Vic & Anthony's. It's not right next to the Strat but it's not too far.

Also, they have chapel packages that start at $295.

Natrasha · September 2011

Okay, but the point is if they're important enough to see you get married, they're important enough to feed. It sucks you've had a rough life, but these abusers- are they invited? If so, they are your guests and you should receive them. You can't invite them, and then not feed them because they were awful years ago. That makes no sense.

There have been a few brides who have had this same idea as you, but it's just not proper. The ceremony is about you. Then you thank your guests for witnessing your committment. No guests = no reception. Guests = reception(dinner,party,etc). That's how it goes.

ETA: You shouldn't be forced to invite people with whom you're not comfortable. You don't need to invite abusers just because they're family.

Cheles93 · September 2011

Burntofferings, can I ask where you are having your reception? I just posted a question asking people the # of guests they've had in an in suite reception bc we may now have just under 50 and I dont want it to be cramped/want to dance. I am waiting for Maggianos to get back to me but still looking around. Thanks

wiwicaty · September 2011

If the most important thing for you is to avoid stress then an elopement is probably the best idea. Also given the circumstances I think seeing the faces of abusive individuals will cause you stress so I would avoid that as well. I'm actually surprised you were considering inviting them, but that's another story. Stress is also a personal thing, we planned a stress-free traditional wedding with almost all the details that you might find stressful... I guess, start by booking the ceremony venue, pay the deposit and lock in your date, then move to reserving flights and accommodations. After that I would work on the rings and the attire. Once you hit the 60 days mark you can pre-register for the marriage license and coicidentally start working on your vows. The knot has a good checklist tool that you can customize. I found it fairly helpful along the way. HTH

smokeybailey · September 2011

I make it a point to not invite anyone that I do not care about to special events in my life, including my wedding. I am not big on the "it's your day" line but when it comes to the invite list, it IS. Invite who you want and then recieve them. Don't think they are worth $50 for dinner? Then they really aren't worthy of an invitation.

Don't want them there? Don't invite them. It truly is that simple.

Also, to echo wiwi, I found planning completely stress free. I am not sure where stress comes from for some people but maybe because my job is high stress, I didn't notice. However, you CAN plan something simple and easy and affordable AND low stress.

paigethomason · September 2011

This thread sounds like a complete joke. (sorry to sound mean) I feel like the story is getting more and more crazy by the second. It seriously sounds like a vendor covering tracks. (personal opinion mp offense) Now as for not wanting to pay for aomeones dinner. That is rude! If you don't want to do a big dinner do something as simple as drinks and cake. When my parents got married they were poor and my mom didn't work. They got married and just did cake and punch! At least you are saying thank you and socializing. Your hole my day and you pay thing is not okay and sounds pretty selfish and spoiled to me.

nycheryl · September 2011

My numbers were purely estimations to make a point, OP. This number can vary greatly based on where people are coming from, where/how long they stay, if they gamble, etc.

I'm not going to touch the rest of the this discussion, just wanted to clarify.

Chapel in the Clouds, and other suggestions needed....

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