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Great Perks
If not for the cutting-edge, hip decor, then check out Graves 601 Hotel in Minneapolis for all of the complimentary add-ons that come with booking a reception. A menu tasting, wedding coordinator, Rosenthal china service, and a complimentary room for the bride and groom on their wedding night and first-year anniversary are just the start. (866) 523-1100
Elegant Reception
Rita Swanson, from Premier Planning Services, Inc. tipped us off to The Saint Paul Hotel. Known for its old-world charm and European style, it has eight elegant spaces to choose from for a ballroom wedding. Make a grand entrance into the Promenade Ballroom with classic décor and chandeliers. Or, go for a more laid-back loft look in the M St. Cafe with its hardwood floors and crown molding. (651) 292-9292
Group Accommodations
Located just outside of Minneapolis in Brooklyn Park is the Grand Rios Indoor Water Park Hotel—the perfect place to accommodate all your out-of-towners with kids. Guests can take advantage of the hotel’s large indoor water park (complimentary passes come with the room), while enjoying an array of on-site restaurants. (763) 566-8855
Romantic Suite
For a bridal suite like none other, book a room at the St. James Hotel in Red Wing. Romance abounds at this historical hotel, awash in Victorian-era decor. Every room is a little different and you’ll love the extras like turndown service with chocolates and double whirlpool tubs. (651) 388-2846
Scenic Dinner
Host your rehearsal or reception dinner at The Marquette Hotel’s WINDOWS on Minnesota, which features panoramic views of the city. Beyond the view, you’ll love the food: The hotel’s culinary staff can create mouthwatering entrees the likes of filet and lobster and desserts such as creamy cheesecake. (612) 333-4545
Star Service
Service is key at The Grand Hotel, located in the heart of downtown Minneapolis. Top-notch planners won’t just help you pull off a seamless reception, but the hotel only hosts one event at a time so you know you’ll have the staff’s undivided attention. In the meantime, your guests will have complimentary access to a large athletic club and a concierge who can assist with travel and activity plans. (612) 373-0411
Perfect Locale
Located in the heart of downtown Minneapolis, the
Millennium Hotel Minneapolis is a great place for all your guests to gather. An indoor pool for families is a plus, but even better is the fact that no matter where your guests are coming from, the airport is minutes away and plenty of attractions and sites surround the hotel. (612) 332-6000
Outdoor Elegance
For a romantic, outdoor wedding, look to the flower gardens, lakeshore, and pine trees at Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge in Deerwood. After exchanging vows in the beauty of Bay Lake as your backdrop, you and your guests can enjoy an elegant meal in the banquet room or log dining room. A bonus: the resort offers salon and spa services as well as welcome baskets for all your out-of-towners. (218) 678-2885
--Anja Winikka
Courtesy of Graves 601 Hotel