Yes, you're very busy trying to pull all those loose ends together before your wedding day. But don't forget to take some time to arrange accommodations for those out-of-town guests who have gone out of their way to come celebrate with you.
It isn't always practical to have guests stay with family or friends, especially if you're considering having them stay with yourself or your immediate family. You'll have far too much to do to worry about entertaining visitors.
It is the bride's responsibility to arrange hotel accommodations for her guests. The farther in advance you make reservations, the better. You'll be more likely to get the number of rooms you need and you may be able to negotiate a special rate as well. Most hotels are busier on the weekends, so there's no such thing as calling too early. The guests usually pay for their own accommodations, but if you can fit it into your budget, it is a nice gesture to provide all your guests with an all-expenses-paid day of celebration.
Remember that your full-service travel agent can also help you take care of these arrangements as well. This can be a wonderful time saving service for hurried brides who just don't have enough time to see to all the details themselves.
Try to find a hotel that is convenient to the wedding and reception, and be sure to check out the rooms before you book them. If you're having a hotel reception, reserve rooms there so your guests don't have to worry about driving anywhere. Since you're already providing the hotel with your reception business, they should be more than happy to block off a number of rooms for your guests.
You might also consider arranging some form of transportation from the hotel to the ceremony and reception. This will ensure that they won't be late because they got lost in an unfamiliar town. Many limousine companies have added large-capacity vehicles to their fleets to accommodate the needs of groups.
Many hotels have response cards that can be included in your invitations. The guest simply has to fill out the card and send it back to the hotel for a reservation.
It's a nice touch as well for you to have flower arrangements or fruit baskets waiting in the rooms with a short note welcoming your guests. If there's a long gap between your wedding and the reception, plan to have a courtesy room set up with snacks and beverages. This will give the out-of-towners a place to go and mingle between events.
If you're not planning to leave right away on your honeymoon, you may want to plan a gathering after the reception or the next day to spend more time with those guests you don't get to see very often. It gives you all a chance to relax and visit in an atmosphere that isn't as hectic as a wedding can be.
Try your best to make your guests' visit enjoyable and memorable. Show them that you appreciate the effort they made to travel to your wedding.
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