It’s almost here. You plan to jet set for your big day and can’t wait to celebrate with your friends and family. Knowing that they are also traveling a long way to celebrate you, there’s little gestures you can make before, during and after the wedding to let them know how much you appreciate them. From accommodation recommendations to travel assistance and a few small thank you gifts, these small details really do make guests feel special and acknowledged.
Accommodations
You know your guests will be traveling, so take the hotel guesswork out for them and make it easy. Do your research and pick out the best hotels in the area ranging in price for every budget. Call hotels before and see if they are offering any packages or specials and go online to research their interior photos and amenities. If you and yours host a wedding website, this is a great place to post information for all guests to see. Also, go the extra step by sending out an email to confirmed guests letting them know how excited you are they will be able to make it and include accommodation recommendations. Either way, guests will feel special, and your research will save them time and cut down on stress when booking a hotel.
Travel
Keep guests up-to-date with travel deals you find. Keep your eyes open for airfare deals, direct flights and other information that will make travel easy for your guests. Like accommodations, update them on your wedding website or send an email to guests you know have not yet booked their travel. When you receive their RSVP, you can also send out a “welcome packet” with all of the must-have information they need to book their flights. Keep them up do date with last minute deals you spot by sending out email alerts. Don’t overdo it with emails, but make sure they know that you are there and looking for the best deals for them.
Gift Baskets
Surprise your guests with a decadent gift basket upon their arrival to the hotel. From snacks, to chocolates and even spa gift baskets, a thoughtful welcome gift will definitely go a long way when thanking your guests for traveling. Also, gift baskets filled with some of their favorite items will make the trip just that more enjoyable.
Bon Voyage Package
After the wedding, have a thank you note for coming to the wedding delivered to their hotel room or make sure to have one at the front desk that guests can pick up during checkout. Also consider having a small gift or “Bon Voyage” themed package with travel essentials for the way home. A cute, inexpensive gift could be as simple as a pack of gum, water bottle and travel pillow. Going the extra step will make guests feel appreciated and know how much you appreciated them traveling to celebrate your special day.
Thank You Notes
This may sound simple, but after the wedding, be sure to send hand written thank you notes on elegant stationary to all of your guests who attended the wedding. Guests won’t be expecting anything right away, but be sure to send a note promptly after you return from your honeymoon.
Great post about helping your guests at destination weddings. I never thought to find hotels that range in budget, but it does make sense.