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With all of the events I've had the pleasure of being a part of for over a decade...I have so many experiences to share with you! While here, you may find inspiration for your wedding day, corporate function or the things I like to get into when I'm not planning like a BOSS!
When it comes to wedding planning, securing a hotel room block is one of those essential steps you don’t want to overlook. Whether you’re hosting a destination wedding or just ensuring your out-of-town guests have a convenient place to stay, a wedding room block offers a stress-free solution for both you and your guests. But where do you start? Let’s break it down in a way that’ll have you booking like a pro in no time!
What is a Wedding Room Block?
A wedding room block is a set number of rooms reserved at a hotel for your wedding guests, usually at a discounted group rate. This ensures your guests will have accommodations nearby and, even better, they won’t have to scramble to find a place to stay. It also keeps everyone together, making logistics and transportation a breeze.
Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Wedding Room Block
1. Start Early (But Not Too Early!)
Aim to book your wedding room block about 6-8 months before the big day. This allows enough time for guests to make their travel plans without running into last-minute availability issues. Be careful not to book too far in advance, as hotels may not offer accurate rates or availability.
2. Determine the Number of Rooms You’ll Need
Think about how many out-of-town guests you’ll have and how many nights they’ll need to stay. A general rule is to block rooms for around 10-15% of your guest list. You’ll also want to consider different room types (king, double, suite) to accommodate various needs.
3. Contact Multiple Hotels
Don’t settle for the first hotel that comes to mind! Call several hotels near your venue to compare rates, amenities, and cancellation policies. Ask about special perks they may offer for wedding room blocks, like complimentary rooms for the bride and groom or shuttle services to your venue.
4. Negotiate for Perks
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, don’t be afraid to negotiate! Many hotels will offer extras like complimentary breakfast, free parking, or even an upgraded room for you. Be sure to ask about these added bonuses when finalizing the contract.
5. Review the Contract Carefully
Before signing on the dotted line, thoroughly review the hotel’s contract. Pay close attention to things like cut-off dates for booking, cancellation policies, and any minimum requirements. Some hotels may require you to pay for any unbooked rooms within the block, so it’s crucial to know the fine print.
6. Send Details to Your Guests
Once your wedding room block is confirmed, it’s time to spread the word! Include all the booking information on your wedding website, invitations, or save-the-dates. Be sure to let your guests know about the cut-off date to secure their rooms at the discounted rate.
7. Follow Up Before the Deadline
As the wedding day approaches, check in with the hotel to see how many rooms in your block have been booked. If you’re falling short, consider sending a gentle reminder to your guests to book before the cut-off date. You can also adjust the number of rooms if necessary, depending on the hotel’s policy.
Why You Need a Wedding Room Block
Booking a wedding room block is not just about convenience. It’s about ensuring your guests are taken care of so you can enjoy your special day without worry. Plus, a group rate saves everyone money, and who doesn’t love that?
Ready to Make It Happen?
Let’s get your wedding room block squared away, stress-free! If you need guidance on finding the right hotels, negotiating the best rates, or making sure your guests are comfortable, I’m here to help. Schedule a consultation today, and we’ll take care of the details so you can focus on the fun parts of wedding planning!
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