Wedding Day

Dreams Jade Resort & Spa

Reception

Our Wedding

It’s a story as old as time: Boy gets new job, Boy finds his new boss super attractive, Boss is in a relationship, Boy shoots his shot a year later, Boy thanks the corporate Gods that there is no HR at work, and the rest is history.Shelby and Xander’s paths crossed (well, wobbled) together in late 2017 when they were both part-time bartenders at the Wicked Wort Brewing Company in Robbinsdale, Minnesota. They found a common, or rather, combative, bond over Minnesota Gopher-Wisconsin Badger football; neither were willing to admit that both of their teams were garbage (this stubbornness would become a staple in their relationship). Over the next year or so, Shelby and Xander would go on numerous dates however they (*cough, Xander) never fully solidified their relationship until December 13, 2018.The next wonderful five years were filled with world travels, “birthing” the most adorable, loveable Doberman that anyone could ever ask for, moving to the suburbs, and finally, beginning the next chapter in their journey together: the next step into “Forever and Always”.&nbsp;That chapter, however, would not be complete without those who helped pave the way for these two to flourish, and those who have been a part of the journey since day one.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A Brief Tale of Love and Border Battles

Our Story

Photos

Lauren Jacobson 

Emily Nelson

Annie Albright 

Callie Bachler

Tai Miller

Jacob Dick 

Brian Spitzmueller

Brandon Schuman

Carter Schmidtz

Casey Caylor

Emilie Niemann

Wedding Party

Celebrate With Us!

We're so excited to have chosen Dreams Jade Resort &amp; Spa in Riviera Cancun, Mexico, for our Destination Wedding! Our ceremony will be held on Thursday, January 9, 2025 at 5:00 pm and we hope you can join us! We have been working with a Destination Wedding Specialist (we'll introduce her further down the page) for several months and have reserved a block of rooms specific to our guests. This room block guarantees availability for our guests (should the resort sell out before reserving your room) and includes the best pricing and amenities and ensures your booking is included in all of our group events and functions. The reserved travel window is January 5 - 15, 2025. Arrival and departure dates are flexible, so feel free to book whatever timeframe works best for you! (please note: Dreams Jade has a minimum 3 night stay requirement.)

About the Resort

Located just 12 miles from Cancun International Airport and minutes from the quaint fishing town of Puerto Morelos, Dreams Jade Resort &amp; Spa, a AAA Four Diamond resort, offers 2,640 feet of pure crystal white sand and refreshing azure waters. Guests enjoy a family-friendly, modern vacation experience where play and party are just steps away from peace. Each exquisite suite features beautiful views of flourishing gardens or crystal-clear ocean. This unique property features luxurious suites, each complete with a private furnished balcony or terrace and a hot tub in the bathroom. Guests can also upgrade to a Preferred Club suite, which offers additional amenities such as a hot tub on the balcony, a private adults-only Preferred Club pool, and more. Six gourmet à la carte restaurants, an international buffet, a café, and two snack grills offer intriguing fare to even the most discerning palate. Delicious cocktails and unlimited top-shelf spirits can be savored at seven unique bars and lounges. 24-hour dining options allow guests to enjoy late-night bites at Coco Café. Or stay in and order room service (hours may vary). Guests can snorkel, kayak or deep-sea dive in the vast blue waters or relax under the warmth of the sun on the white sandy beach. They can perfect their swing with preferred rates at two nearby golf courses or indulge in a vast array of treatments offered at the world-class spa. Little ones will have the opportunity to partake in many day and nighttime activities provided by the Red Cross-certified staff at the Explorer’s Club for Kids, while teens can enjoy a variety of sports, games, and social activities just for them. When the sun sets, guests can enjoy live-themed shows in our large indoor theater or sip on a cocktail at Scores with a live DJ. Luxury and family-friendly fun await at Dreams Jade Resort &amp; Spa.

UNLIMITED-LUXURY® INCLUSIONSIncluded in your stay:• Limitless access to gourmet à la carte dining options without reservations required• Unlimited international and domestic top-shelf spirits• Unlimited natural fruit juices and soft drinks• Room and concierge services (hours may vary)• Pool and beach wait service• Daily refreshed mini-bar with soft drinks, juice, bottled water and beer• Daily maid service• Endless daytime activities and live nightly entertainment• Theme parties, oceanfront bars and entertainment venues• No wristbands required• All taxes and gratuities• Enjoy free Wi-Fi

accommodations

Settle down in one of 550 ultra-comfortable Junior or Preferred Club Suites, sleekly designed and replete with all the necessities, special touches, and ocean views that make you completely relaxed. Accommodations are inspired by the turquoise sea and Cancun’s mesmerizing sunsets. All rooms and suites are non-smoking. All suites offer the following amenities:• King-size bed or two double beds • Private furnished balcony or terrace • Hot tub in bathroom • Gilchrist &amp; Soames luxurious bath amenities • Marble floors • Bathrobe and slippers • Hair dryer • Direct dial phone • Cable TV • Mini-bar refreshed daily • Electronic safe box –accommodates up to 13” laptop • Alarm Clock • Air-conditioning with individual control • Room service (hours may vary) • Coffee and tea maker • Iron &amp; ironing board • Luxury amenities

Junior Suite Tropical Room - king bed or 2 double bedsThe spacious Junior Suite offers a king bed or 2 double beds (700 square feet or 65 square meters), a living area, a 50” LCD TV, a balcony, a whirlpool in the bathroom, a separate rain shower, a double sink, a bidet, and a comfortable bed with a wider mattress. Daily restocked mini bar with water, sodas, and beers.max adult occupancy:king bed - 2 adults; 2 Beds - 3 adults

Junior Suite Ocean View ~ 1 King bed or 2 Double BedsIn addition to the above amenities, the Junior Suite ocean view offers stunning views, a king or two double beds, a spacious living area, a 50” LCD TV, a balcony, a hot tub in the bathroom, and a separate rain shower, a double sink, a bidet, a comfortable bed with a wider mattress, and an alarm clock.Please note, the views vary by suite location.max adult occupancy:king bed - 2 adults; 2 Beds - 3 adults

Family Suite Ocean View In addition to the above amenities, the Family Suite offers two spacious connecting Junior Suite Ocean View rooms, one with a king-size bed and one with two double beds. The suite also offers a balcony, hot tub in the bathroom, separate rain shower, double sink, bidet, comfortable bed with a wider mattress, and alarm clock.max adult occupancy: 4 adults*Family Suite Ocean View rooms are not confirmed and are on a request basis.

Preferred Club RoomsPreferred Club Suites offer the following additional amenities:• Personalized check-in and checkout with concierge service • Living room • Access to the private lounge and to the adults-only heated pool • Bathroom with double sinks and rain shower • Hot tub located on the room’s balcony • Preferred status and amenities • Preferred Club Lounge • Private areas throughout the resort • Upgraded luxury bath amenities • Bathrobes and slippers • Pillow menu • Complimentary computer access in Club Lounge • Upgraded mini-bar and room service menu • 55”and 65” LCD TV • Enjoy one complimentary 25 minute neck, back &amp; shoulders massage in out shiatsu chairs (one per person, per stay) • Barefoot Grill a la carte menu • Daily exclusive a la carte breakfast at Capers, afternoon hot and cold hors d’oeuvres and exquisite desserts &amp; fine liquors in the lounge

Preferred Club Suite Ocean ViewIn addition to the above amenities, the Preferred Club Suite Ocean View also offers a one-bedroom suite with a king or two double beds, a view of the ocean, a 55” LCD TV, air conditioning, and a ceiling fan. There is also a separate living room with a 65” LCD TV and sofa, two closets, two phones, and an alarm clock. The bathroom has a separate rain shower, double sink, bidet, and luxurious bathroom amenities. Please note that the views vary by suite location.&nbsp;max adult occupancy:king bed - 2 adults; 2 Beds - 3 adults*Preferred Club Ocean View rooms are not confirmed and are on a request basis.&nbsp;

Pricing is per person, per night, based on the number of persons sharing the room.

RATES: Rates are per person, per night and are based on the number of people occupying the room. Special rates are available for children ages 3-12. Persons 13+ are considered adults for pricing and occupancy purposes. Dreams Jade Resort &amp; Spa is an all-inclusive resort, so pricing includes all meals, drinks, entertainment, and all taxes and fees. FLIGHTS: Airfare is not included in the price for various reasons; many people have points, miles, or airline credits to use, which need to be booked by the traveler. Typically, the best time to book your flights is 5-6 months before travel when all airlines have their schedules available. We recommend using <a href="https://www.google.com/travel/flights" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Google Flights </a>to research fares and set up a <a href="https://www.google.com/travel/flights/saves?gl=US&amp;hl=en-US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">fare alert</a> to notify you if the ticket price drops. In the last several months, drops in air prices/sales have been showing up in the evening/on weekends; therefore, if you come across a deal, it's a good idea to jump on it! Alternatively, I am happy to make your flight arrangements for you.&nbsp;&nbsp; TRANSPORTATION TO THE RESORT: Resort transportation is not included in the price and will be arranged after final payment, approximately six weeks before travel. Transfers will be coordinated with your flight arrival and departure dates and times to get the best pricing for the group.&nbsp; DEPOSIT:&nbsp;Since we are within 125 days of travel, a deposit of 20% of your room cost is required to book your room. Additional deposits may be required if your reservation includes air and/or travel insurance. A second deposit of 20% of your total room cost is due on or about October 6. Final balance is due November 1, 2024. Flexible payment plans are available. To take advantage of the discounted rates, please aim to make your reservation by September 15, 2024.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Travel insurance is optional but very highly recommended. It gives you peace of mind before and during travel by protecting your vacation investment from the unexpected. Without insurance, you are responsible for any fees and/or penalties&nbsp;incurred as a result of any change(s) and/or cancellation(s) of any component(s) of your trip, regardless of circumstance.&nbsp;&nbsp;In addition, any&nbsp;during travel emergencies or unforeseen circumstances will be at your expense. For coverage and policy info, click <a href="https://www.tripmate.com/wpGR430F/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.

What's Next?

As mentioned earlier, we are working with Theresa Williams, a Destination Wedding Specialist with Escape With Us Vacations to help coordinate travel plans, monitor the reservations, and keep us all informed of any requirements or changes along the way. Booking through one central agent with knowledge of our wedding plans and venue will help provide peace of mind and the ability to contact one person for all your questions and concerns.&nbsp;Her contact info is:Theresa WilliamsEmail: <a href="mailto:Theresa@escapewithusvacations.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Theresa@escapewithusvacations.com</a>Phone: 651-788-4338 ext 213 or 651-583-7243 A message from Theresa:Hello! I'm Theresa, and I've had the honor of working with Shelby and Xander for the last few months, assisting them with their Destination Wedding plans! Part of having a stress-free experience for them is knowing their guests and their travel plans are taken care of before, during, and after the trip, so they have enlisted me to do that! I have been in the travel industry for 20+ years. I sell the world, but my true passion is working with wedding couples AND their family and friends. I love to create unforgettable travel experiences for my clients, so all you'll need to do is enjoy an incredible trip experience without the traveler’s anxiety.&nbsp;You are as important to me as the wedding couple themselves, so feel free to contact me anytime.I look forward to hearing from you and assisting you with the perfect 'escape' to Dreams Jade Resort &amp; Spa!

Reserve Your Room

Below is the link to reserve your room and submit payment information for the deposit. If the room category you're interested in is sold out or you don't see it listed, note that on the form, and Theresa will check availability and pricing for you.<a href="https://www.vacationcrm.com/IFrameRegistration/Group?agentLookup=e259aae3-742d-4c0d-8ef0-589c669e7c1b&amp;groupId=0df86b4e-c1ec-49fd-bb7b-b0a87ff75ec5" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Make a Reservation</a>

Q and A

Check out the Q &amp; A tab! The benefit of doing this for so many years is that there is not a single question I haven't been asked! And as they say, no question is a 'dumb' question. You'll find answers to the questions most frequently asked. If something is not covered, feel free to email me ~ Theresa

Photo Gallery

Travel

'Q and A' with Theresa

When/How Should I Book?Right Now! You'll get the most options and best rates the earlier you book. Not to mention, Dreams Jade Resort &amp; Spa is a popular resort and frequently sells out so don't be the one left at home! Also, the couple has a lot of details to plan, so it is best to be considerate of their time and book as soon as you get your invitation. This gives them the time and numbers needed to make and finalize their wedding day plans and budget. The deposit is very reasonable, and you can pay the balance over time with one of our flexible payment plans, or you can pay just the initial deposit now, an additional payment on October 6, and the final balance is due on November 1. Fill out our <a href="https://www.vacationcrm.com/IFrameRegistration/Group?agentLookup=e259aae3-742d-4c0d-8ef0-589c669e7c1b&amp;groupId=0df86b4e-c1ec-49fd-bb7b-b0a87ff75ec5" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">'Make a Reservation' </a>form to get started. Will I need a passport?Yes. A valid passport is required for ALL persons traveling. For Mexico, passports must be valid for the entire duration of your trip. Don't have a passport? No worries! Waiting times are approximately 12 weeks, so apply now, and you'll have it in plenty of time! What's not included with my all-inclusive resort reservation? Items of a 'personal nature' such as Spa treatments, tours, and excursions are not included. Also, I recommend carrying a fair amount of $1 and $5 bills for gratuities at the airport, tour guides, and transfer drivers. Tipping at the resorts is neither required nor expected. However, I have found that the service is so fantastic and the staff is so engaging that I want to let them know how much I appreciate them, so I bring a little extra for that! Can I book on my own or stay at another resort?You can. However, why would you? And here's why:• The wedding couple has taken the time to set up a room block and sign a contract for those rooms. Rooms booked elsewhere will not be included in their room block and, therefore, won't count toward fulfilling their contract.• The couple you're celebrating chose a destination wedding to spend quality time with the people who mean the most to them. Staying somewhere else robs them of that experience!• To be considered part of their 'wedding group' and be included on the guest list and any additional amenities that come with it, you must be booked into their room block.• Guests not staying at the resort are 'outside guests' and are charged a fee to attend the festivities. There are strict rules regarding what you can and cannot attend, and your time on the property is limited.• We should have the best price. If you see a less expensive price for the same package inclusions, let us see if we can get the same. Almost always, online prices are lacking in some way or are not apples to apples. I'll need a current screenshot of the price and inclusions so I can verify the components. Our goal is to have EVERYONE book into the couple's room block so they fulfill their contract and earn the most wedding amenities. Pricematched rooms cannot be booked into the room block; therefore, they will not be part of the 'group.' There are 'attendance fees' for attending their events in this case.• Most importantly, You work hard for the money, and an incredible travel experience is a perfect way to reap the benefits of that hard work! I want you to cherish your precious time together—not stress over it, troubleshoot it, or—worst of all—regret it. So leave it all to me! I'm committed to giving you the effortless vacation experience you deserve! Sidenote: Should you book outside the group and experience any hiccups for legal reasons, I am unable to assist you, and you'd need to go back to the agency that made your arrangements. What if I have a problem?One key etiquette tip for guests of destination weddings is to avoid involving the couple in travel or room issues. Contact ME if your name is spelled wrong on your documents or if you missed your flight. Likewise, don't complain to the couple or other guests if your room isn’t ready or the view isn’t perfect. This creates a frenzy. There is no need to add extra stress to the couple. I am the first person to contact if you have any travel-related questions or problems. Our travel partners have 24/7 help desks. If you have issues with the hotel, we need to solve them while you are there. Very little can be done after you check out. Let us help. Not everything always goes as planned. The good news is...that's why you have me! What do I need to make my reservation?• Names of travelers as listed on your passport• Dates you want to travel• Birthdates of travelers• Passport number and expiration date• Credit card for deposit• Billing address• Contact info: email address and phone number Other questions? That's why I'm here, so feel free to contact me anytime! Ready for your quote? Fill out our form, and I'll be in touch to confirm your arrangements. <a href="https://www.vacationcrm.com/IFrameRegistration/Group?agentLookup=e259aae3-742d-4c0d-8ef0-589c669e7c1b&amp;groupId=0df86b4e-c1ec-49fd-bb7b-b0a87ff75ec5" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Shelby and Xander are tying the knot ~ I want to be part of it! </a>(make your reservation form) I am so excited for Shelby and Xander to experience the wonder and beauty of tying the knot in Mexico, and I look forward to working with every one of you! Email: <a href="mailto:mailto%3Atheresa@escapewithusvacations.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">theresa@escapewithusvacations.com</a>Phone: 651-788-4338 ext 213direct dial: 651-583-7243

Xander & Shelby

Xander & Shelby

Photos