Tips for Planning a Weekend Wedding

Would you like to turn your wedding into a full weekend of fun? The growing trend toward weekend weddings, filled with fun which can range from spa treatments to golf touraments for your guests, has caught on at destinations everywhere. This month, we talk with Tracy Curnette, Event Manager and Marriott Certified Wedding Event Planner for The Lodge at Sonoma [photo gallery] for her tips on planning a weekend wedding--whether in Sonoma, California or elsewhere. [see related story on weddings & vow renewals at The Lodge at Sonoma].

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

Well of course the Spa! But as I have already mentioned that, there are some wonderful winery tours to experience. We also have a number of historic landmarks, a wonderful downtown plaza with fabulous unique shops, art museums, and hot-air balloon rides.

Why do you think there has been a trend lately toward more weekend weddings?

Brides, grooms and their families are putting a great deal of care and planning into their weddings today. Often weddings are planned for one to two years in advance. A weekend wedding insures that the most possible invited will be able to attend. In addition, the fun is not limited to the day of the wedding alone. Activities can be planned to enrich and engage your guests for two or three days.

How can weekend weddings help join families and make everyone feel more comfortable?

With a weekend wedding family and friends are not seeing each other for the first time at the wedding ceremony. They have had relaxed opportunities to rekindle friendships and enjoy one another’s company in a less formal venue. This contributes to a warm and comfortable atmosphere at the wedding.

What types of activities have you helped weekend wedding brides arrange for guests?

Again the Spa! I have arranged Spa treatments for all of the bridal party and delightful luncheons in the Spa Garden. These can be planned for the day before the wedding or the morning of the wedding.

The groom and groomsmen are usually fond of a golf outing at one of our premier golf clubs. Infineon Raceway is also just minutes away. For the adventurous, ESPN Russell Racing Schools offer a full spectrum of open wheel racing courses, karting classes, driving courses and group adventures!

And of course, it is great fun to get friends and family together in a plush, luxury limousine bus, where speed is definitely not the focal point, and sample Sonoma’s wine.

What functions are especially appropriate for the day after the wedding?

Post-wedding brunches are very popular. Friends and family can get together one last time, enjoy delicious cuisine and sip mimosas or fresh peach Bellini’s. Some brides have even tied in their gift opening with this event. Don't we all want to see the presents?!

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.