Gone are the days when tying the knot in a hotel was considered a luxurious indulgence reserved for the wealthy.

Nowadays, it’s a smart choice that offers simplicity, superior organization and is often more cost-effective than other options. Plus, with proper planning, you can enjoy an array of additional perks and benefits.

From saying ‘I do’ in style to walking down your honeymoon suite with a shiny new elite status, getting married in a hotel can be the ultimate win-win.

Why get married at a hotel?

The three top reasons to get married at a hotel are – convenience, convenience, and convenience.

From luxurious and sophisticated spaces to intimate venues, a hotel wedding can offer a variety of options for every type of couple and budget.

It’s also easier to pick a hotel for your wedding. With tonnes of reviews to rely on, it’s much simpler to shortlist hotel venues for your big day.

Almost all good hotels, especially global chains, have well-trained staff and vendors in place to take care of everything you may need at your wedding.

Typically, any hotel will offer all-inclusive packages that include food service, decorations, event staffing, and other services that can help make a wedding far less stressful to organize.

Additionally, many hotels will have salon services available for both you and your guests on the day of your ceremony, as well as during pre-wedding events like bridal showers or rehearsal dinners.

Many hotels provide basic decor such as fresh flowers and table linens, which can help set the tone for an elegant affair. However, if you’re looking for something more personalized or unique, most hotels offer customized decorations packages which can include everything from customized centerpieces to hangings or backdrops depending on what look you’re trying to achieve.

Finally, when it comes time to book a photographer for your special day, there are plenty of options available within many hotels.

In summary, getting married at a hotel offers convenience in terms of venue options, staff and vendor support, all-inclusive packages, salon services, and personalized decor. It can also provide easy access to photography services.

Loyalty benefits of a wedding at a hotel.

When negotiating a wedding deal with a hotel, be aware of loyalty benefits that you are entitled to, and extra benefits the hotel may offer.

2x or 3x points are pretty common. Keep an eye on bonus points and other hotel weddings promotions.

There is a base reward rate that hotel programs offer to their guests, or to the planner involved. Here are some base points you should at least expect to get for your booking. You can negotiate a better deal, depending on the size of your events.

Note that guests will earn points over and above these for the room they are staying in, as per their elite status.

These points are elite qualifying

Reward points you earn for hosting weddings and other events are typically elite qualifying. It’s a much faster way to reach a higher elite status.

For example, you get IHG Diamond Elite status for 120,000 points. If your wedding can cover a major part of that requirement, you can be a Diamond Elite in a couple of days, instead of the regular 70 nights in a year requirement.

Higher elite status with a loyalty program can unlock perks like complimentary breakfast, lounge access, room upgrades, etc. Perfect for your honeymoon and all other travels you are planning in the first year of your wedding.

Unlike stays, points for events may not get automatically credited to your account post the wedding. Therefore, it’s important to discuss this beforehand, and get it specified in your event contract or email.

How to plan a hotel wedding?

When it comes to planning a hotel wedding, there are many factors to consider. First, you’ll need to decide on the type of hotel you want to host your nuptials at. Do you prefer an upscale resort or an intimate boutique hotel?

Consider the size and style of the venue and decide on what type of atmosphere you’re looking for. Once you have narrowed down your choices, contact the hotels directly or search online for availability and pricing information.

Don’t forget to try the food at every place you are considering. It’s one of the most important parts of a wedding celebration.

Take a look at the venue. Is it pleasant? Are fire and other safety protocols taken care of? Is it conveniently located for your guests? Especially seniors in the family. What if it rains on the day? Is there a backup plan? What if more guests show up? What if several guests can’t make it?

All of the above should be clearly discussed and part of your agreement with the hotel.

Conclusion.

From budget to location, services to the decor, view to the weather, there are numerous factors that play a critical role in deciding the venue for your wedding.

Points, and elite status isn’t one of them and shouldn’t be.

However, once you have decided on the venue, it’s important to not miss out on the bonus points and higher elite status. They are rightfully yours to take.