Hotel block question

rcj2rcd

What's the rule/guidance on hotel blocks?

I plan to call our preferred hotel this weekend, but I don't want to sound like an idiot on the phone. Should I estimate 1 room for each OOT couple/guest invited and then some extras for in-town guests that may need a room? Do hotels generally require you to give an estimate of rooms needed?

About 25% of our guests are OOT. Our reception is within 30 mins from most ppls homes, but this guest list likes to party.

TIA

MrsBarstool2011

We thought that a lot of our guests would like to stay in a hotel to use the shuttle but I have found out otherwise.  The hotel we went with if we blocked out I think 20 rooms and half of them were not reserved they charge me a few.  So I went with 10 rooms since that weird rule didn't apply and I was able to add rooms to the block as needed with out the few applying too.

lisa89760

We got a rate from the hotel...and the first rate is negotiable so make sure you ask about that! We have 10 rooms blocked out which is no charge to us but anyone who calls can use the rate.  They release the rooms like 3 weeks or something before the wedding.  We also got a shuttle to and from the reception. 

emarston1

It varies from hotel to hotel what their policies are.  Some will block rooms and then release them to the public if they aren't blocked by X date.  Otherwse will make you financially responsible for any unused rooms.  Obviously it is best if you aren't responsible for any unsold rooms.  Just make sure you are explicitly aware of what you are responsible for.

Sometimes they will throw in free extras such as a shuttle or a room for the bride and groom, etc.

abbeylynne06

I'd shy away from anywhere that holds you accountable for unsold rooms.  With the economy, a hotel for the night after a wedding is an easy thing for a lot of people to cut, so you might not have as many want to stay as you think.  We had very few people stay for ours.  And, my DH and I almost always drive back after weddings, even if it's 2-3 hours away.

finallytime37

we asked about any financial obligations we'd have for the hotel.  then we asked both sets of parents how many rooms they thought each side of the family would need. depending who you work with most hotels are really helpful!

rcj2rcd

Thanks for the help ladies! I decided this was a great task to delegate to FI, plus, he is way better at negotiating/talking to vendors (and that is exactly how I sold the idea!) Thanks again