Weddingbee boards

I am a very lost bride to be.  My wedding is in 5 months in Aruba, and I'm in NY.  I really have no clue what I need to take care of and what I need to do at this point.  I booked the Westin in Aruba and am working with Kimberly.  Not exactly the most responsive and the most helpful. 

Are there any other Aruba brides out there that can give me sugguestions and ideas?

I read that some destination wedding have a welcome dinner the day before.  Is that really necessary?  I am thinking about organizing a group snorkel excursion or boat cruise for my guest.  Who usually pays for these type of events?  Does the guest pay or do we pay for them as an appreciation?

Did anyone get the official marriage thing at Aruba where you go to city hall or did you do it at home separately?  Also, the ceremony, who was the officiant?  I have a wedding package with Westin and I think they provide one but not sure what type of service they provide.  We're both not religious and think we might want to have a friend officiate for us.

Also other Aruba brides, who did you use for hair and make up?  Did anyone have the ceremony on the beach?  What shoes did you and your bridesmaids wear?  Pretty impossible to walk on sand w/ heels right?  or is it do-able?

As for the favor and decorations, did you have to order them and bring them to Aruba yourself or were you able to ship to the hotel?

Sorry about all the rambling.  I am just really freaking out now since it's only 5 months away and I feel like I still have so much to do and so clueless!!

Any comment, suggestions, ideas are greatly greatly appreciated!!!

mizzzie