Planning a destination wedding is an exhilarating experience. The thrill of blending cultures, sharing a beautiful location with loved ones, and saying “I do” in an exotic setting is like a dream. However, my recent trip to Marrakech as the Celebrant for a multicultural wedding ceremony was a stark reminder of the importance of visiting your destination wedding accommodation and venue ahead of time. Here’s why.
First Impressions and Realities
My husband and I were incredibly excited about our trip to Marrakech. The wedding couple had meticulously planned every detail from afar, confident that everything would go smoothly. However, from the moment we arrived, we realised how essential it is to visit the venue before the big day to ensure all your needs—and those of your guests and suppliers—are met.
Our first challenge came right at the airport. We had pre-booked a hotel car to pick us up, but finding our driver was like searching for a needle in a haystack. The airport was crowded with people holding signs, and despite multiple attempts to contact the hotel, no one answered. Eventually, we found our driver, but not before spending an exhausting amount of time under the hot sun—an uncomfortable start to our trip. If the couple had visited the hotel beforehand, we could have ironed out these details, perhaps ensuring our name was clearly displayed on the sign instead of the hotel’s name.
Accessibility and Mobility Considerations
Once we arrived at the hotel, our concerns grew. The walk from the drop-off point to the reception was long and taxing, particularly for me, as I use a walking stick. We had assumed the hotel would provide a buggy service, especially since we had booked their transportation, but this was not the case. The hotel staff seemed unaware of the needs of guests with mobility issues, which added unnecessary stress.
This experience highlighted the importance of personally assessing the accessibility of your wedding venue and accommodation. Don’t rely solely on what’s advertised or communicated via email. Visit the site, check the distances between key areas (reception, rooms, ceremony location), and ensure that adequate transportation or assistance is available for those who may need it.
Room Readiness and Amenities
Upon reaching our room, we were greeted by an unpleasant smell, which the porter dismissed as a housekeeping odour. Despite our efforts to mask it, the smell lingered, affecting our comfort. The issues didn’t stop there—the safe didn’t work, and basic amenities like the shampoo and towel rail were not in proper condition. These might seem like minor inconveniences, but on your wedding day, every little thing adds up.
Had a visit been made earlier, we could have ensured that the rooms were in top condition, or at the very least, we could have requested necessary adjustments well in advance.
Communication Barriers and Language Challenges
Communication is crucial, especially when planning a wedding in a foreign country. While many of the hotel staff tried to be helpful, the language barrier posed significant challenges. For example, during check-in, misunderstandings about simple terms led to confusion, and in the restaurant, we struggled to identify certain foods due to a lack of labeling and communication.
A pre-visit allows you to identify these challenges and perhaps arrange for translators or ensure that key information is clearly communicated to your guests. It also gives you a chance to meet with the wedding coordinator or other suppliers in person, ensuring everyone is on the same page regarding your expectations.
Ensuring Guest Comfort and Satisfaction
Finally, it’s essential to think about your guests’ comfort. The hotel provided only small bottles of water in the rooms, which was insufficient given the heat and our need to take medication. We had to keep requesting more, which was inconvenient.
During a pre-visit, you can discuss these details with the hotel staff, ensuring they’re prepared to meet the specific needs of your party, from extra water to room placements that minimise walking distances for elderly guests or those with additional needs.
Conclusion: Don’t Skip the Pre-Wedding Visit
Our experience in Marrakech taught us a valuable lesson: visiting your destination wedding venue before the big day is not just important—it’s essential. It allows you to address any issues beforehand, ensuring that you, your guests, and your suppliers have a seamless and enjoyable experience. After all, your wedding day should be filled with love and joy, not stress and discomfort.
So, if you’re planning a destination wedding, make that trip in advance. Your future self—and your guests—will thank you.