As a boutique hotel owner, you have the unique opportunity to provide an intimate and luxurious setting for couples to host their special day. With thoughtful planning and attention to detail, your hotel can become known as a premier wedding venue in your area. Here are some tips to help you accommodate weddings and make the process smooth for both your staff and the happy couple.
Offer a Range of Indoor/Outdoor Ceremony Locations
One advantage of a boutique hotel venue is the ability to host both indoor and outdoor ceremonies. Survey your property to find options like a garden courtyard, rooftop terrace, ballroom, restaurant patio, or chapel if you have one. Present these locations clearly in your materials so couples can envision hosting their ceremony on-site. It’s worth investing in items like a stretch tent so you can be more flexible when offering indoor and outdoor locations.
For outdoor spaces, define the maximum capacity you can accommodate. And have a backup indoor location reserved in case of bad weather. Make sure outdoor areas have access to power sources for music, lights, and other AV needs. Having versatile ceremony sites gives engaged couples flexibility.
Create a Dedicated Wedding Planning Package
Put together a package that includes your venue rental fees, catering options, room blocks for guests, and any other amenities like chairs, linens, or lighting that you can provide.
Having set pricing takes the guesswork out of budgeting for engaged couples. Be upfront about what’s included and any additional costs they may incur.
Assign a Wedding Coordinator
Appoint someone on your hotel staff to be the dedicated contact person for all wedding related inquiries and planning. This gives the couple one main point of contact to answer questions and handle all the details. The coordinator can walk them through the venues on-site, go over the package inclusions, coordinate vendor recommendations, and make sure the event goes smoothly.
Create Beautiful Photo Backdrops
Photographs from the ceremony and reception will become cherished keepsakes, so think about photogenic backdrops around your property. Well-manicured gardens, hanging flower arrangements, fountains, gazebos, and architectural details like arches or staircases all make great photo settings. Scout locations that would look stunning in photos so couples can take memorable portraits.
Offer Rehearsal Dinner and Day-After Brunch Options
In addition to the main event, engaged couples often need venues for a rehearsal dinner the night before and a farewell brunch the day after the wedding. Pitch your hotel restaurant or private event rooms as the perfect on-site locations for these pre and post wedding events.
The convenience appeals to wedding parties, and gives you more revenue opportunities.
Partner with Recommended Wedding Vendors
Most couples will need to hire outside vendors like photographers, florists, bakeries, DJs, and more. Do some research and create a list of quality local vendors you trust to recommend. These partnerships also benefit your venue by ensuring smooth, well-executed events. Reach out to vendors you’d like to work with so you can refer each other for business.
With proper planning and coordination, boutique hotels can excel as wedding venues. Take advantage of your unique atmosphere and attributes to create a memorable wedding experience for brides and grooms. Your personal touch and attention to their special day will keep couples coming back.
