Valet Parking: To List Or Not On Wedding Invites?

When it comes to wedding planning, one of the many considerations is whether to include hosted valet services and, if so, how to inform guests. While some see it as a necessity for a seamless guest experience, others view it as an optional extra. Including it on a wedding invitation can be tricky, as it may be seen as an expectation for guests to drive or an unnecessary detail. However, it is essential to communicate this information effectively to avoid confusion or inconvenience.

Should you pay for hosted valet parking?

When it comes to paying for hosted valet parking at a wedding, there are a few factors and perspectives to consider. Firstly, it is important to communicate clearly to your guests that valet parking is hosted and included in your wedding arrangements. This can be done through your wedding website, word of mouth, or by including an additional card with the invitation that mentions valet parking. This is especially important if you want to avoid any confusion or your guests feeling the need to pay for parking or tip the valet staff.

From an etiquette perspective, there are differing opinions on whether the couple or the guests should pay for valet parking. Some argue that if valet parking is the only option or if it is a requirement by the venue, then the couple should cover the cost as part of hosting the event. This is especially true if the wedding is formal or if there are no other reasonable parking options nearby. In such cases, it would be considerate to pay for valet parking to avoid guests having to incur high parking fees, especially if they are already spending a lot on travel, accommodation, and a gift.

On the other hand, some people believe that if there are alternative parking options available, such as self-parking or public transportation, then it is acceptable for guests to cover their own valet parking costs. This is often the case in large cities, where parking costs are typically higher. It is worth noting that even if you choose not to pay for valet parking for your guests, you can still provide them with recommendations and information about alternative parking options to help them plan their transportation.

Ultimately, the decision to pay for hosted valet parking at your wedding depends on your specific circumstances, budget, and preferences. If you can afford it and want to provide an extra level of convenience for your guests, covering the cost of valet parking can be a nice gesture. However, if your budget is tight or there are alternative parking options available, it may not be necessary to include it as part of your wedding expenses.

How to inform guests about hosted valet parking?

If you are hosting valet parking for your wedding, it is a good idea to inform your guests ahead of time to avoid confusion and ensure they do not worry about parking. Here are some ways to do this:

Website

If you have a wedding website, this is a great place to include information about the valet parking. You could add a simple statement such as "Guests may use valet parking at [venue] at no cost" or "Please enjoy complimentary valet parking at [venue]". This will ensure that guests who visit the website are aware that valet parking is provided and that there is no charge.

Word of Mouth

You could also spread the information by word of mouth. This could be a more informal way to let guests know about the valet parking, especially if you are not having a formal reception card or additional insert with your invitations.

Invitation Insert or Details Card

If you are having a details card or extra insert with your invitations, you could include a statement about the valet parking here. Something like "We have arranged complimentary valet parking for your convenience" or "Valet parking has been provided" will inform guests that they do not need to worry about parking.

Vouchers

Another option is to include parking vouchers with your invitations. This ensures that guests have a physical reminder of the valet parking and can also help you keep track of parking costs if you are charged per voucher redeemed. You could design and print custom vouchers with your computer and business card sheets.

Rehearsal Dinner Invites

If you are having a rehearsal dinner, you may want to include information about the valet parking on these invites, especially if parking is usually a problem in that area. You could say something like "Complimentary valet parking available" or "Valet services provided".

Inform Venue Staff

It is also a good idea to instruct venue staff to decline tips from guests, making it clear that the valet parking has already been taken care of by the hosts.

Overall, there are several ways to inform your wedding guests about hosted valet parking. Including this information on your website, spreading it by word of mouth, or adding it to invitation inserts or details cards are all effective methods. Providing vouchers or including information on rehearsal dinner invites can also be helpful in certain situations.

Valet parking: required or optional?

Valet parking is a convenient service that can enhance your guests' experience at your wedding, but is it a required or optional part of your special day? Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to include valet parking:

Location and Venue

Consider the location and venue of your wedding when deciding on valet parking. If your wedding is in an area with limited parking options or in a busy city where finding a spot can be challenging, valet parking can be a helpful solution. On the other hand, if there is ample parking available or guests can easily use public transportation, valet parking may not be necessary. Additionally, some venues, such as hotels, may already include valet parking as part of their services, while others may require you to hire an external company.

Guest Convenience and Experience

Valet parking can significantly improve your guests' experience, especially if they are dressed up in formal attire or if there is a possibility of inclement weather. It adds a touch of luxury and convenience, allowing guests to arrive and depart smoothly without worrying about parking. If your wedding is formal or black-tie, providing valet parking can be a thoughtful way to ensure your guests don't have to walk long distances or struggle with parking in their dress clothes.

Cost Considerations

The cost of valet parking can be a significant factor in your decision. If you choose to provide valet parking, it is generally expected that you cover the cost for your guests. This can be a substantial expense, especially if you have a large number of guests driving to the event. However, some couples choose to offer it as an optional service, in which case guests can decide whether to use it and pay for it themselves. Alternatively, you can explore options such as providing valet parking vouchers or arranging for discounted rates with the valet company.

Communication to Guests

When deciding on valet parking, consider how you will communicate this information to your guests. Some couples include it on their wedding website, details card with the invitation, or a separate card indicating that parking is paid for. It is essential to provide clear information to avoid confusion or guests feeling the need to open their wallets unexpectedly. You may also want to instruct venue staff to politely decline tips if you have already taken care of them.

In conclusion, valet parking is not a required element of your wedding but can be a valuable addition, especially if it aligns with your venue, guest experience, and budget considerations. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific circumstances and what you feel is best for your special day.

Valet parking for out-of-town guests?

If you're hosting a wedding with many out-of-town guests, you may be wondering if you should offer valet parking and, if so, how to communicate this to your guests. Here are some considerations and suggestions to help you navigate this aspect of your wedding planning:

Should You Offer Valet Parking for Out-of-Town Guests?

Offering valet parking for your out-of-town guests can be a thoughtful gesture, especially if your venue is in an area where parking is limited or expensive. It can also be a convenient option if your wedding is held in an area with inclement weather, as guests won't have to walk far from their cars to the venue. However, it is not a requirement, and ultimately the decision comes down to your preferences and budget. If you're concerned about the cost, you may want to explore other options, such as suggesting public transportation or carpooling for your out-of-town guests.

Communicating Valet Parking Information to Guests:

When it comes to letting your guests know about the valet parking option, there are a few approaches you can take:

• Wedding Website: Including information about the valet service on your wedding website is a good idea, especially if you have an online RSVP system in place. This ensures that most, if not all, of your guests will receive the information. You can simply state, "Guests may use valet parking at [venue] at no cost," or "Please enjoy complimentary valet parking at [venue]."
• Details Card with the Invitation: If you're including a details card with your invitation, you can mention the valet parking there. Something like, "We have arranged complimentary valet parking for your convenience," or "Valet parking has been provided for your convenience."
• Word of Mouth: In addition to the written communication, you can spread the word through conversations with your guests. This way, you can ensure that everyone is aware of the valet option.
• Reception Card: If you're having a reception at a different location, you can include a reception card with your invitation, mentioning the valet parking option there. For example, "Complimentary valet parking will be available at the reception venue."
• Vouchers or Tickets: If you want to provide valet parking for a specific number of guests or control the cost, you can include parking vouchers or tickets with the invitations. This way, guests can redeem the voucher or ticket for free parking, and you can be charged based on the number of vouchers turned in.

Other Considerations:

When deciding on valet parking, keep in mind the following:

• Tipping: Even if you cover the cost of valet parking, some guests may still tip the valet attendants. To avoid any confusion, you can instruct the venue staff to politely decline tips, making it clear that the service is fully hosted.
• Alternative Parking Options: If you choose not to provide valet parking or want to offer additional options, you can include a list of alternative parking locations and their costs on your wedding website or invitation inserts. This is especially helpful if your venue has limited parking options or expensive parking fees.
• Public Transportation: If your out-of-town guests are likely to use public transportation, you can include information about transit options on your website or invitations. This can be a cost-effective alternative to valet parking.

In conclusion, offering valet parking for out-of-town guests is a thoughtful gesture, but it's not a requirement. Communicate the parking options clearly to your guests through your wedding website, invitation inserts, and word of mouth. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your preferences, venue requirements, and budget.

Valet parking for guests staying at the hotel?

If you're hosting your wedding at a hotel, it's likely that valet parking will be included for your guests. However, it's a good idea to confirm this with the hotel beforehand. If the hotel doesn't usually offer valet parking, you may need to hire an external valet company.

If you're covering the cost of valet parking for your guests, it's a nice gesture to communicate this clearly to avoid any confusion. Here are some suggestions on how to do this:

Website and Word of Mouth

Create a dedicated section on your wedding website to inform guests about the complimentary valet parking service. Spread the word through close friends and family members as well. This way, your guests will know in advance and can plan their transportation accordingly.

Reception Card or Additional Card

If you're including a reception card with your invitation, you can mention the complimentary valet service in the bottom corner. Alternatively, you can include a separate card with your invitation package specifically for this purpose. This ensures that every guest receives the information.

Vouchers or Tickets

Another creative way to inform guests about the hosted valet parking is by including vouchers or tickets with the invitations. These vouchers can be customised and printed on business card paper, making them more durable and visually appealing. Guests can then present these vouchers to the valet service, ensuring a smooth process.

Rehearsal Dinner Invites

If you're having a rehearsal dinner, you can also include information about the valet service on these invitations. This is especially useful if the dinner is held at a different location from the wedding, where parking might be a concern for your guests. You can use phrases like "Complimentary valet parking available" or "Valet services provided" to convey the message clearly.

Online RSVP

If you're using an online RSVP system, this can be another effective channel to communicate about the valet service. Guests who RSVP online will be informed, and you can also encourage them to spread the word to other guests who may not have visited the website yet.

In terms of the duration of the valet service, it is generally considered sufficient to cover the parking expenses for the wedding ceremony and reception only. However, if you wish to extend this gesture, you can consider waiving a portion of the parking fee for guests who are staying overnight at the hotel.

Frequently asked questions