*Photo featuring Graduate Athens
Hotels provide a great foundation for a picture-perfect wedding celebration. They offer a variety of event spaces, and amenities that will make the planning process and logistics a lot easier for the couple to handle. If you’re considering throwing your wedding in a hotel, here are a few things to keep in mind.
You’ll Likely Save on Rentals
Upfront, hotel wedding venues may seem pricier compared to other venue styles. However, you may be able to save big later down the line. Hotels often have typical rental items – such as tables, chairs, and linens – and will include it in the package cost (although you should check with each potential venue to see what exactly their wedding package includes). Depending on the architecture of the hotel, it may also be less necessary to go big with decor, ultimately saving you even more.
Ask for Policies on Outside Vendors
When you are meeting with venue coordinators, be sure to get their policy on bringing in outside wedding vendors. Some hotels will have caterers or other event vendors on-staff that they’ll want you to use, or will have a list of preferred vendors. You may run into additional fees if you bring in outside vendors – if they allow it at all.
Consider Different Space Options
More often than not, you’ll have a lot of event space options to choose from at hotels. There may be ballrooms, dining areas, patios, or lawns where tents can be set up. Ballrooms can also often be partially closed off for smaller gatherings. This means that many hotels can cater to both large and small weddings, giving you plenty of options to choose from. Talk to the coordinator about the options available in the space.
Look for Room Block Deals
If you’re booking a hotel for your wedding, there is a good chance you’ll be able to score a great deal on room blocks for out of town guests. Be sure to talk to the coordinator about rates and availability. The added bonus is that you won’t have to worry about providing transportation to your venue.
Be Prepared for Passersby
One downside of a lot of hotel event spaces is that you likely won’t completely avoid hotel guests. There may be a public path by an outdoor space you’re using, or your wedding guests may have to use the main hotel entrance to get to your event space. While there is often little you can do about this, it is something to keep in mind as you are looking at potential hotel venues.
Keep the Entire Weekend in Mind
With the flexibility and variety of available spaces and services in hotels, you may be able to host other wedding related activities and events. Maybe you’ll be able to throw your rehearsal dinner at the hotel, have a post-wedding brunch in their restaurant, or get ready for the big day in one of the rooms. Ask the hotel coordinator about the different amenities available.
If you are in the process of planning your wedding, come to the next Georgia Bridal Show near you. You will have the chance to meet with professional wedding vendors of all talents who can help bring your vision to life!
Georgia wedding vendors, as well as other wedding professionals across the Southeast, can contact us about opportunities for exhibition and online marketing with Georgia Bridal Show.