With the holiday season comes, holiday engagements! If you are expecting to answer a special question this season, or if you are in the midst of wedding planning, check out our Q&A with Eddie Guice, one of our Catering Managers who help our Portola couples plan their wedding day.
Wedding Planning Q&A
Q: When is the best time to get married in Monterey?
A: Monterey has beautiful mild climate. Anytime between June through October is best.
Q: What does a typical wedding look like at the Portola Hotel & Spa?
A: Weddings are all unique, the Monterey Bay's setting and locations views are what bring everlasting memories.
Bride and Groom near Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey SimplyTwo Photography
Q: What are options for the wedding ceremony site?
A: There are many to choose from, either along the coast on Lovers Point, Big Sur, or Carmel. Also, there are nearby historical buildings – The Barns at Cooper Molera, The Perry House, Memory Garden to name a few.
Q: What are options for the wedding reception site?
A: Our Grand ballroom, The Club Room, Bonsai, & Cottonwood Plaza are on site. Memory Garden and The Barns at Cooper Molera are nearby.
Wedding in Memory Garden SimplyTwo Photography
Q: What is the weather backup plan?
A: If we are preferred caterers, we have the use of our Grand Ballroom, The Club Room, and Bonsai Ballroom.
Q: What are some popular menu items?
A: We have local sustainable seasonal offerings that are all well received. In addition, our culinary team is able to customize menus for special request. Check out our Wedding Kit for more information.
Q: In your opinion, where should couples splurge and where should couples save?
A: Splurge on the venue, caterer, wedding planner for day of, and photography. Save on extras such as expensive invites, favors, décor, and an expensive champagne toast.
Q: What is the most helpful piece of advice for couples during their wedding planning?
A: Stay organized; gather your invite list, and research dates and venues with questions ready! Keep a potential budget, let one vendor lead you to the next… i.e. venue can recommend band, and florist, etc.
Q: What is something that most couples forget about that is important to plan?
A: DAY OF COORDINATOR or day of point of contact to ensure vision and timing goes off as smooth as possible. After the wedding venue is set, brides and grooms often fail to have a point of contact for the day as they will be busy getting married.
Start Planning your Wedding Day
To start planning your wedding in Monterey, and get help from one of our Catering Managers, visit our website to submit a Request for Proposal.