The Greater Minneapolis Convention and Visitors Association provides this free service because it is their responsibility to track where visitors stay. That's why they help couples select hotels and banquet spaces, as long as the couples give them the name of the hotel they select. Here is how the process works:
Couples complete an online form that includes the wedding date, number of guests, and the number of hotel rooms needed for guests (on the days before and after the wedding). Once they have submitted the form, the Association's expert wedding planner puts the couple's request into a custom lead. She sends the lead to hotels and banquet halls that compete for the couple's business. These vendors contact the couple to offer their services including room block rates, hotel availability, reception venues, etc. After the couple has made their decisions, they contact the Association to let them know.
The Web site also provides lists of venues that can make Minneapolis weddings and receptions memorable events. Listed below are a few of their suggestions:
Minneapolis weddings in unique settings
A wedding ceremony is a memorable occasion no matter where it takes place. Make it even more special by having it in a unique atmosphere like the:
•Historic Murphy's Landing – A village set in the 19th century that includes a town hall, pavilion, gazebo, and view of the Mississippi River
•Minnesota Zoo – Have a magical wedding by the Discovery Bay aquarium or Rainforest of Tropics exhibit
Minneapolis weddings in natural places
The Minneapolis Park System has many beautiful places to hold an outdoor wedding. Parks such as Lyndale Park Rose Garden, Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, or Minnehaha Falls provide a tranquil setting for a wedding.
Minneapolis weddings and reception spaces
Celebrate the special event with family and friends at the Grand Paladium Ballroom of a luxurious mansion; on a chartered cruise down Lake Minnetonka; or at Varsity Theatre.
Minneapolis weddings and rehearsal dinner spots
Make the rehearsal dinner a memorable occasion full of good food and laughter. Restaurants such as Azia Restaurants, Café Brenda, and Melting Pot provide the perfect atmosphere for such a wonderful occasion.
Whether a couple chooses to have their wedding in at the Mall of America, in the Science Museum of Minnesota, or Boom Island (one of the Minneapolis Park System's spaces), Minneapoliswedding.org can help them organize the event. This free service can be an invaluable resource for busy or budget-conscious couples.