Junior Rasmussen
When it comes to wedding guest accommodation, there are a few key considerations. Firstly, it is generally understood that guests are responsible for covering their travel expenses, including accommodation. However, if you're planning a destination wedding or have many out-of-town guests, it's considerate to offer a range of options at different price points. Booking a hotel block can be a convenient way to ensure your guests have somewhere to stay, and it may also come with perks for VIPs and discounts for your guests. While it's not necessary or expected, some couples choose to pay for the accommodation of their bridal party, parents, or siblings. Ultimately, the decision to stay in the same hotel as your guests or elsewhere is entirely up to the couple, and it's not uncommon for couples to opt for alternative arrangements for various reasons.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who stays in the hotel for a wedding | Couples may opt to stay alongside their guests or choose somewhere more private and upscale. |
| Booking a hotel for a wedding | A wedding hotel block is a set of hotel rooms that have been set aside for a group at an agreed-upon rate. |
| Who pays for the hotel for a wedding | Traditionally, wedding guests pay for their own hotel rooms. However, couples may choose to pay for family members' rooms. |
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What You'll Learn
Hotel blocks for guests
A hotel room block is a set of hotel rooms that are set aside for a group at an agreed-upon rate. The couple usually decides on the number of rooms required based on their guest list. This ensures that their loved ones have a smooth and enjoyable experience at the wedding. It is a considerate gesture, especially for out-of-town guests, as it offers them a convenient and discounted place to stay. It also makes booking accommodations easier for guests and reduces the stress of wedding planning for the couple.
There are two basic kinds of hotel blocks: contract/attrition blocks and courtesy blocks. For contract/attrition blocks, the couple is committed to booking a certain number of rooms and may be charged if they are unable to fill them. For courtesy blocks, the hotel holds a set of rooms for the group at a set price until a specified date, after which the rooms are released for other guests to book. It is important to note that courtesy blocks may not offer the best rates, especially if the reception is not held at the hotel.
When booking a hotel block, it is advisable to negotiate room rates and inquire about any perks or upgrades that may be available. Some hotels may offer early check-in, late check-out, free Wi-Fi, or welcome bags for guests. It is also worth considering booking a variety of locations with different rates to accommodate guests' preferences and budgets.
Additionally, the couple can provide guests with a unique booking URL or code to facilitate the reservation process. This can be included on the wedding website or shared through other means. It is recommended to start the process early, as hotel blocks can be time-consuming to set up, and it is important to secure accommodations for guests well in advance of the wedding date.
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Paying for guests' rooms
There is no obligation for the couple to pay for their guests' hotel rooms. In fact, traditionally, wedding guests pay for their own rooms, and it would be an added expense for the couple to pay for everyone's accommodation. However, if you are having an officiant coming from out of town, it is considered good etiquette to pay for their room for the night of the wedding.
If you are able to, it is a nice gesture to pay for the rooms of close family members, such as parents, and even siblings. You may also want to consider helping out members of the wedding party, such as bridesmaids or groomsmen, especially if you are asking them to stay in a particular hotel, or if you know they are on a tight budget.
One option to help your guests save money is to reserve a block of rooms at a couple of hotels at different price points. This will ensure availability for your guests and hotels often offer discounted rates for rooms booked as part of a block. You can then let your guests know about these options, along with the prices, in their invitations. This way, guests can decide whether to take up one of these options or find their own accommodation.
If you are getting married at a hotel, you may be able to get a free bridal suite if you block book a certain number of rooms. It is also worth asking about perks such as shuttle services or welcome bags for your guests.
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Choosing a hotel for convenience
Choosing a hotel for your wedding night can be a strategic decision. If you book wisely, your hotel can serve multiple purposes, such as a space for hair and makeup, storing gifts, and a gathering spot for coffee and breakfast the next morning.
One of the most important considerations is convenience. If your wedding is local, you may want to book a hotel nearby so that you can easily crash after the festivities without having to worry about travel. This is especially useful if you plan to party into the early hours of the morning. However, if you value your privacy and comfort, you might prefer to book a hotel elsewhere, ensuring a peaceful night's sleep without the risk of running into guests.
If you have many out-of-town guests, booking a hotel room block can be a considerate gesture. It offers convenience, discounted rates, and a fun experience for your guests, allowing them to mix and mingle late into the night. It also eases the stress of wedding planning and transportation details for the couple. When reserving a block, consider negotiating with the hotel for perks like early check-in, late check-out, free Wi-Fi, or room upgrades.
Additionally, if you're hosting your wedding at a hotel, check with the coordinator. They may offer the honeymoon suite as a courtesy inclusion in your package, saving you the cost of a separate hotel booking.
Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing a hotel for convenience. Consider your priorities, whether it's proximity, privacy, or guest accommodations, and don't be afraid to get creative to ensure a smooth and memorable experience for everyone.
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The bridal suite
It is also important to consider the amenities provided by the bridal suite. A full-service hotel can be beneficial as they offer extra toiletries, ironing boards, laundry services, and room service for any last-minute needs. A kitchenette can also be useful, especially if you plan to use the suite for hair and makeup. Other amenities to look out for include early check-in, late check-out, free Wi-Fi, and turn-down services. Some hotels may even offer a complimentary room or upgrade for the newlyweds.
The size of the bridal suite is another factor to consider. If you plan to use it for getting ready, ensure it has enough space for your glam team and bridal party. There should be ample lighting, counter space, and outlets for hair and makeup artists to work comfortably. Additionally, consider if you want a separate space within the suite for lounging and snacks.
For destination weddings or weddings where most guests are coming from out of town, booking a hotel block can be advantageous. It ensures your guests have convenient and affordable accommodations, and it can enhance their experience as they can mingle with other guests before and after the reception.
Ultimately, the decision to stay in a bridal suite depends on your preferences and budget. While it offers convenience and privacy, it may not be necessary if you have another dedicated space for getting ready. You can also opt for a more private and upscale location separate from your guests or choose to stay with them.
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Staying elsewhere
If you're not staying at the wedding venue, you'll need to book a hotel room for your wedding night. This can be a simple, inexpensive room if you're planning on arriving late and leaving early. If you're marrying in a city, the location of your wedding night hotel doesn't matter as much as you can easily travel between locations.
If you're hosting your wedding at a hotel, the honeymoon suite might be included as part of your event package. However, this is usually only for one night, so if you want to stay for multiple nights, you'll need to book additional nights.
If you're not staying at the wedding venue, you can still book a guest room block at a hotel near your venue. This can be more convenient and offer a discount on room rates. It can also be a more fun experience for your guests, who can mix and mingle late into the night.
If you're having a destination wedding, it's considered strange if you don't stay at the same hotel as your guests. However, if you're having a local wedding, most guests will likely head home after the festivities. In this case, you can offer a hotel block for out-of-town guests only, or only offer rooms to local guests if there are unfilled rooms, to avoid penalty fees.
If you're not staying at the same hotel as your guests, you can still offer to pay for certain guests' rooms, such as the officiant, bridesmaids, or family members.
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Frequently asked questions
No, you don't have to stay at the same hotel as your guests. It's entirely up to you where you stay.
No, you don't have to book or pay for your guests' rooms. It is common for guests to pay for their own rooms. However, you may want to reserve a block of rooms at a discounted rate for your guests.
Contact a few hotels near your wedding venue and ask about their room block process. You can then share the details with your guests on your wedding website.
Yes, you can provide a list of recommended hotels or accommodation options at different price points. You could also provide a welcome bag with useful supplies or host a welcome dinner.
