Vendor Spotlight: Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco

Just hearing the name, Ritz-Carlton, evokes imagery of grand, classic proportions. And the Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco is nothing short of this. Perhaps the ideal venue for your dream wedding? The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco as we know it today was completed after a four-year renovation in 1991. Since then, this Neo-Classical Nob Hill landmark has been impressing tourists, business travelers, celebrities and couples in their 336 luxury guest room hotel. So what it’s like to plan your wedding here?

Bonnie Crail, President of Crail Communications and press representative for The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco, tells us that while they host only about 30 weddings a year, they take weddings very seriously saying, “It’s a seamless service experience”. You will also have your own Ritz-Carlton Wedding Specialist who'll coordinate your every need from floral arrangements, china, chairs and entertainment. Food is catered by their infamous kitchen lead by Chef Patrick Callarec, and you will no doubt receive five-star service in every area from staff to the linens you choose. Sound dreamy? It gets better.

Don’t think just because you’re on a budget or hosting a small, intimate wedding that you can’t host your wedding at a grand place like the Ritz-Carlton. Bonnie details us the many options you have here and we love options:

* The Terrace Courtyard works for up to 250 guests, complete with a white tent and palladium-style windows. And the Terrace Room can host a reception up to 120 with dancing and windows that look out onto its courtyard.

* The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom can host anywhere from 50 to 500. All it takes is the magic that the staff makes to move things around decorate accordingly.

* And for truly smaller, intimate ceremonies and receptions, the Consulate and Colonnade rooms host up to 50 while the Plaza and Diplomat rooms host up to 25.

Still thinking these options will break the bank? They might or they might not. Consider a Thursday, Friday or Sunday affair where pricing can be better negotiated. Bonnie tells us they often do Sunday luncheon weddings or Sunday ceremonies followed by a tea party. Get creative!