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"Are you in the midst of planning the most magical day of your life. Are you wondering how to handle accommodations for your cherished wedding guests? Well, let me just tell you, some of those blogs you've been reading might not have the full scoop! But guess what? I'm here to spill the beans on a wedding hotel block, and I've got over 20 years of experience to back it up. So, let's dive in and make this journey fun and breezy, shall we?" - Erin, Director of Sales, Courtyard by Marriott by Kitchener
First things first, when it comes to booking hotel rooms for your wedding guests, don't jump the gun. Unless you're getting hitched on the same day as the Super Bowl or a unicorn convention (kidding, but wouldn't that be cool?), aim to secure your wedding block about 8 months before your big day. When you're sending out those Save The Dates, that's the perfect moment to let your guests in on the secret – the booking link or code! Keep in mind that most hotels can only book a year in advance. So calling for a date two years out won't work. Sorry, early birds!
Now, let's talk rates. Imagine this: hotel staff are like professional shoppers, always on the hunt. We check out our competition daily. So, when you call us, trust us, we've got it covered. Plus, we're likely to offer you a discount, especially if the hotel is a preferred vendor for your wedding venue. So, pick a hotel that suits you and your guests' needs. You're in for a pleasant surprise!
The idea of booking multiple hotels might seem like a smart move, but think again. It can actually prevent you from getting those awesome perks and concessions. Instead, go for one wedding hotel block at one hotel. If the cost doesn't tickle your fancy, your guests can always explore other options or use their points. What's important is to pick a hotel with an average rate for the area and, of course, top-notch customer service.
Booking a large block can feel like the right thing to do, but it's not always the best idea. Depending on the hotel, you could be on the hook for payment, something we call attrition. Instead, consider booking just 10 rooms or a courtesy block. The hotel's sales manager can always add more rooms if they're getting booked, especially if your guests are on top of things and book early. More early bookings can lead to sweet rewards, like a free room for you or even some of your wedding party members. Just remember to tell them you're exclusively booking with that one hotel!
Many couples phone monthly, only to discover that no one's bothered to book. Send them gentle reminders to book early and often to secure those discounts and help you reach the room nights needed for those fantastic perks! Save the last minute stress when all your guests complain they can’t get a room or the discount. They never read that there is a deadline! Remind them!
Here's a little nugget of wisdom that you might not find in every blog. Most hotels won't guarantee early check-in times, and the standard check-in time is around 3 PM. So, if your ceremony starts before that, your guests might find themselves in a bit of a pickle. Remind your guests to plan around this, and here's the big secret – if your wedding block has lots of reservations, you can negotiate an early check-in for you or your guests! Negotiation skills to the rescue!
When you're booking your wedding hotel block, make sure to have your credit card ready, and book your room. If your block reaches 20 rooms or more, go ahead and ask for a complimentary room or a free suite upgrade. It's also your chance to inquire about early check-in if your block meets the hotel's set room count. This tells the hotel you're loyal and informed – you've got your finger on the pulse of the hotel booking game.
So, there you have it, folks! Booking a wedding hotel block for your wedding guests doesn't have to be a headache. With these handy tips and a smile on your face, you'll breeze through the process and be well on your way to concentrating on more important things for your special day. And hey, who doesn't love the idea of snagging a free room in the process? Keep the positivity flowing, and happy wedding planning!
This wedding hotel block expert tip is featured in the Spring/Summer 2024 issue of The Wedding Ring Magazine
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT KITCHENER | To speak with Courtyard by Marriott Kitchener about your wedding options, you can reach them using the form below.
