The Wedding Planner
Kelly Rosenblatt, Senior Catering Sales Manager
Renaissance Grand Hotel
St. Louis, Missouri

Meet me in St. Louis--for a wedding! If your destination wedding plans call for a Midwest location that makes it easy for both East and West coast guests to converge, St. Louis just might be the place. One hotel that works with many brides is the Renaissance Grand Hotel, truly a grand choice for brides.

This month, we talk with Kelly Rosenblatt, Senior Catering Sales Manager and Marriott Certified Wedding Event Planner, about planning a wedding at this special property.

Kelly, like other planners interviewed in this monthly column, has passed the Marriott International Wedding Certification Program. Kelly also gives us her tips for planning a destination wedding with children in the wedding party in a related article.

What aspects of your property are most attractive to brides?

The Renaissance Grand Hotel is a popular destination with brides due to our convenient location, choice of ballrooms and historic significance to the community. The newly renovated four star property is an integral part of St. Louis' downtown and trendy Washington Avenue. The hotel is a unique combination of new construction and the historic renovation of what was once the Statler Hotel, originally built in 1917.

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

The most popular site for wedding receptions is undoubtedly the magnificent Crystal Ballroom. Truly the crowning jewel of the property, the ballroom is quite simply breath taking. Situated on the 20th floor, the Crystal Ballroom has been lovingly restored to its original grandeur, complete with soaring 36' ceilings, ornate plaster work, chandeliers replicated to look like the original and windows overlooking the city lights. No expense was spared in the rebirth of this ballroom. Its elegant beauty is unmatched anywhere in the city.

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

A touch of local inspiration can be woven into any affair. In-room gift bags and baskets filled with unique St. Louis products and literature highlighting the sights of downtown are a great way to kick things off. With St. Louis' strong musical heritage, why not arrange to have the sweet sounds of jazz or the blues fill the air during the cocktail hour? As for the food, we suggest a menu focused on seasonal fare with Midwest flavors. And what event is complete without some of St. Louis' original toasted ravioli.

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

The list of things to do is always growing in St. Louis! Utilizing the hotel concierge and local organizations such as the St. Louis Convention and Visitors Commission and Downtown St. Louis Partnership is a great way to stay in touch with what will interest your guests and help round out an already special weekend.

Things to do:

Shopping at historic Union Station
Tour the world’s largest brewery - Anheuser Busch
Visit the Old Cathedral and Courthouse
Rent bicycles on Laclede’s Landing
Spend an evening in history Soulard and spend some time taking in the local blues and jazz scene
Gateway Arch and Museum
Fabulous Forest Park featuring
St. Louis Zoo, Science Center and Planetarium, Art Museum, History Museum, Norman Probstein Golf Course and Steinberg Ice Rink
City Museum
President Casino
Double Decker Bus Tours

Click here for an interview with Kelly about children at destination weddings.

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.

Photos courtesy Renaissance Grand