Questions you should ask: 1. How early should I block hotel rooms? 2. What is the minimum number of rooms that I can block? 3. How much do the rooms cost? 4. What does the rate include? 5. When do you release the rooms? 6. Do we have to pay for unused rooms? Yes No 7. Can we put gift bags in our guests' rooms? Yes No 8. Do you have a honeymoon suite? Yes No 9. Do you provide a shuttle? Airport Reception Site Ceremony Site 10. What amenities do you offer? Notes: Taking care of your guests WITH GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS If you’re expecting out-of-town guests to attend your wedding, you’ll need to book a block of hotel rooms for their overnight stays. Reserving a block of rooms doesn’t mean that you’ll have a specific area for your guests to stay; it simply means that you have reserved a set number of rooms at agreed upon rates for your guests to book. You’ll want to look for hotels that of- fer Open/Courtesy Blocks. This means that you won’t have to pay upfront and won’t be charged for any unused rooms. Start out by booking a smaller number and adding more as you go. A typical rule of thumb is to count how many out-of-town guests you have and divide it in half. If that seems like a small number, consider that some guests may make other arrangements or decide to drive home. Ask your hotel about any ameni- ties they have – like complimentary brunch, shuttle service, or welcome bag deliveries. It’s considerate to leave a goodie bag in each guest room. They can be filled with local sweets, toilet- ries, or wedding weekend necessi- ties! Most importantly, double check that everything you’ve agreed upon is on your contract and ask about their cancellation policy before signing. GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS Start your search for the perfect Guest Accommodations on page 42. ? GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS Questions Extend your out-of-town guests' visit by reserving nearby Guest Accommodations. 138 | TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE