The Wedding Planner
Nector Collazo, Sales Manager
The JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes
Orlando, Florida

Orlando has long been synonymous with the word vacation and it's increasingly becoming popular as a location for destination weddings as well.

Lovetripper recently interviewed Nector Collazo, Director of Event Planning at the luxurious JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes, for tips on marrying in this wedding capital. Nector, like other planners interviewed in this monthly column, has passed the Marriott International Wedding Certification Program. Nector also gives us tips for planning a theme wedding .

What aspects of your property are most attractive to brides?

The most popular aspects are the lake front function lawns, outdoors settings, lush tropical gardens, grand entrance to hotel.

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

For intimate weddings - Citrus Garden because of the spiral Mediterranean-style staircase illuminated with special lighting or candles, and Wedding Gazebo located lake front, the most romantic setting in where the sky and the lake join efforts in creating the most spectacular backdrop for the grand arrival of the bride in a horse-drawn carriage.

For large weddings - in a traditional Spanish-style garden setting, thus the name Valencia Lawn, perfectly oval-shaped outdoor manicured lawn becomes the most romantic setting for larger weddings. The Mediterranean Ballroom where the cast iron has inspired brides to use the theme through out their decorations.

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

Decorations would be most influenced by our Florida location. Florida being so diverse, the fusion of different cuisines such as Latin, American and Caribbean can be used to create a regional theme. Music - there's vast talent available in Orlando from one spectrum to the other.

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

• Spa - bridal showers, couples treatments, salon for make up and hair
• Golf - leisure golf afternoon with lunch, couples lessons
• Dining
• pools
• carriage rides

 

Click here for an interview with Nector about planning a theme wedding

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 The JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes