Kauai Marriott Resort or the Sheraton Kauai??

Gatorgirl · September 9, 2010

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Anyone ever had their wedding at either place? We are considering these places for sometime next year. Both locations have beautiful oceanfront locations for ceremonies.

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We'd love to hear your thoughts or feedback since we're on the east coast

Kat22 · October 1, 2010

Hi There! We are getting married next April at the Sheraton Kauai. My family has a time share at the Waiohai so we were very familiar with the area. The Sheraton has a great location and lots of experience. The downfall is that once you start planning they pass you off to an event planing company which means extra costs and fewer choices. I've heard great things about the event planning company, HI Event Planners and have had a good experience so far, though. On the other hand, the Kauai Marriott Resort is brand new which means they may be slightly more inexperienced when it comes to weddings at their resorts but i'm assuming they will try very hard to make you happy. Let me know if you have any additional questions.

Gatorgirl · October 2, 2010

Hi Kat!

Thanks so much for sharing this information!

Has anything surprised you with your planning so far at the Sheraton? (unexpected fees, bad reviews, higher rates, etc). Have you personally seen any of the oceanfront locations? If so, which was your favorite. We wouldn't be able to fly out there before booking anything, so we're relying on pictures and opinions of others. Which location onsite did you choose?

Does the hotel give you any complimentary nights for having your wedding there?

Kat22 · October 10, 2010

Hello!

I think I will be able to answer more of your questions in more detail once we start the detailed planning in November (6 months prior). As far as the process so far, we secured the venue for our ceremony and reception. We are having our ceremony at the Ocean Point which I would highly recommend. It's one of the best location for sunsets in Poipu. Our reception will be held on the Ocean lawn which I would recommend over the Beach Lawn which is almost on the side of the property and not as great of a location. In November we will start discussing details like flowers, cake, colors, etc. One thing I would caution you about is photography and videography...Do your research! We loved our photographer who did our engagement photos so we are actually flying her in but there are only a few on the island of Kauai so maybe do your research and fly someone in from Oahu. The resort will charge you a $150-$250 fee to bring in your own vendors though just as a heads up. We thought photography was worth it.

The hotel does not offer complimentary nights but will give you a slight discount. I am going to try to negotiate that further so we'll see.

Like I said, I think I will know a lot more once we start the detailed planning in November but let me know if you have any more questions...

Oh! A couple more money saving pointers...

There is a Safeway about 25 minutes away that does bouquets for about $30-$60 which will save you a ton going through them instead of the hotel which charges $60-$200

There is a Macy's about 15 minutes away where you can get your makeup done at any of their makeup vendors i.e. Clinique. Some brands are complimentary, some charge $50-$100.

Gatorgirl · October 12, 2010

Hi Kat!

Good to know. Thanks!! I look forward to hearing about your experience in the very near future

I've been talking with the wedding coordinator at the Marriott. She said that they don't use an event planner once you put down your deposit. They're a one-stop shop! So that makes it nice because they take care of everything.

Gregeb · October 12, 2011

hi,

so I'm curious, what did the total tab run you guys?

and if you have a break out for

1-bar

2-flowers

3-dinner

4-rehersal dinner

5-photos

and how happy with the experience are you?

thanks,

greg

clarkannae · April 21, 2013

Hi! I would love to get your feedback on hosting your wedding at the Sheraton! My fiance and I are getting married next Jan and were ready to move forward with the Sheraton. However, I have seen numerous negative reviews which is a bit unsettling. I am not bridezilla, and do not need to micromanage every last detail. However I have noted their communications is far from prompt. Your input would be much appreciated!!!