Why are hotels so hitched to the wedding business?

Weddings are not only joyous and blissful bashes for couples in love. They’re a big reason for hoteliers to celebrate as well.

Besides being a massive F&B revenue generator, weddings bestow their lucky venue with marketing outreach and benefits that can last for years.

Here are five reasons why a couple’s big day is a big deal for your property:

1. Weddings Expose New Prospects to Your Property

Every bride and groom that tie the knot or hold their reception at your hotel are, in essence, your unofficial marketing ambassadors, inviting hundreds of their family and friends to party at your property. These new guests book rooms and are seeing your property at its finest. All your hotel has to do is meet, greet and make an amazing impression.

2. Weddings Get Shared Like Crazy on Social Media

Because weddings are such grand occasions, guests are dressing up, dancing, reuniting with friends and family, feasting and partying. This also means that they are taking photos to commemorate the event, posting and checking in on social media and showing their epic good time. Tech-savvy couples are even setting up their wedding hashtags and promoting them on invites, their wedding websites and their programs, which encourages their guests to take even more photos and post to their social media channels.

The euphoria of a fun and lively reception continues after the event… it’s common to see family and friends still posting images from that night long after its over.

3. The Bride and Groom Become Fans and Repeat Guests For Life

There are only a handful of precious places to a couple – where they first met, the scene of their first date, the spot where the groom popped the question, and of course, where they exchanged vows in front of everyone important to them. Your property will forever be a wonderful memory and the setting for happy thoughts and associations. Every return visit will be meaningful. Plus, given that you executed their day impeccably, you’ll have two people who will be quick to recommend your property to everyone they know for years to come.  

4. Weddings Help You Perfect Your Service Experience

Not that you would want to steal the bride’s thunder, but her wedding is also your hotel’s time to shine. Weddings make you and your staff strive for the flawless execution, impeccable service and stunning settings that every bride and groom deserves. If you can warm, welcome and wow 100 people at once, you’re primed to do the same for individual guests.

5. Weddings Provide Group Room Revenue During Slow Periods

Weddings often fill in the gaps when other group business may be low. This is especially true in the summer, when many properties see a drop in larger business meetings and conventions. Plus, weddings are often accompanied by add-on, complementary events, such as rehearsal dinners, after parties and farewell brunches.

Saying “I do” to weddings brings your hotel happy guests, group room blocks and social media and marketing exposure that doesn’t cost your hotel a penny. So raise a glass and let’s toast to the all the brides and grooms out there!