The Wedding Planner
Laura Fox, Catering Sales Manager and Marriott Certified Wedding Planner, Boston Marriott Cambridge Center

Are you planning the resort or hotel wedding of your dreams...and looking for a planner who can help you make those dreams come true? In this monthly column, we interview Marriott wedding planners; each planner has passed the Marriott International Wedding Certification Program.

This month, we interview Laura Fox, Catering Sales Manager and a Marriott Certified Wedding Planner at the Boston Marriott Cambridge Center (and a recent Boston bride herself!) for her tips on weddings at this elegant property.

What aspects of your property are most attractive to brides?

Without a doubt, our location is most attractive to brides, particularly with brides that will be expecting a large number of out-of-town guests. Located directly at the Red Line Kendall Square "T" Stop (the public transportation system in Boston), we are literally two stops from Harvard Square and two stops from Park Street and the Freedom Trail.  Our ideal location makes sightseeing easy for folks staying with us.  Just a short cab ride from the airport, there is no need for guests to pay outrageous cab fares or car rental and parking fees during their stay.

Additionally, our comprehensive wedding package is extremely attractive to brides.  Brides that are planning their Boston weddings from afar find our package particularly appealing.  The "one stop shopping" concept simplifies their planning process.  There is no need for brides to research reputable florists and bakeries, as we have done this for them.  While both their wedding cake and floral centerpieces can be customized to meet their dreams, these items are included in our per person package price.  Two more vendor searches to cross of their "to-do" lists.

What are the most popular wedding venues at the property, both for large and small weddings?

Our recently renovated Grand Ballroom is the most popular wedding venue.  Comprised of seven different salons, we have the ability to accommodate weddings ranging in size from 30 guests to 500 guests.  We take pride in hosting one wedding at a time and offer a rooftop garden for formal photographs.

What local elements can a bride add to her wedding to give it a regional atmosphere?

It is important for a bride not to underestimate the impact that small details have on your guests' experience.  Hosting your reception here in Boston, you may opt for a clambake for your rehearsal dinner or a raw bar during your cocktail hour.  You may decide to offer trolley service for your guests from the ceremony location to your reception.  

Offering specialty drinks during your reception is also a popular trend.  A bride and groom may offer "Mint Juleps" to honor their Kentucky upbringing.  In the event that your wedding is a more casual affair at the beach, you may decide to serve "Cape Codders."  A calypso band may be a great choice for entertainment.  Incorporating Boston-Baked-Beans, lobster lollipops, "T" tokens and Samuel Adams beer into your guests welcome baskets is also a way to enhance your wedding with regional tastes.  

Lastly, incorporating hydrangeas into floral arrangements for Cape Cod receptions or miniature pineapples for a tropical themed wedding can be a nice touch.

For brides planning a weekend wedding, what nearby attractions or on property activities are of special interest for their guests?

Recently married in Boston myself, I have a particular fondness for the "Weekend Wedding"  concept.  With the majority of our guests traveling from the Midwest, we opted for a Friday evening reception, allowing for fun activities throughout the remainder of the weekend.  

Whether it be a Duckboat tour of Boston, a short walk over the Longfellow Bridge to historic Beacon Hill and "Cheers", a Red Sox baseball game at Fenway Park, the Boston College/Miami Football game or heading South for a more lengthy excursion to the beaches on Cape Cod, there are a tremendous number of local activities for weekend visitors. Opting for a Friday evening reception can also be beneficial to brides and grooms, as many reception locations offer Friday/Sunday discounts.

To plan a Marriott wedding, call the Marriott of your choice and ask to consult with the hotel's wedding event planner. For more information on Marriott Hotels, Resorts, and Suites, call 1-800-228-9290 or see www.marriott.com.