At the heart of every destination wedding is the venue. The right hotel does not just host a wedding; it gathers your people close, holds space for joy and emotion, and gently brings your cherished dream to life. It becomes part of the love story, woven into every photograph, every step, and every tear of joy. It is more than just a setting; it is a keeper of moments, where vows take shape, laughter dances through hallways, and lifelong bonds are sealed in celebration.
To uncover the vision, craftsmanship, and cultural finesse behind extraordinary destination weddings, TTJ goes behind the scenes with the hoteliers who orchestrate every detail. These industry experts work tirelessly to transform lifelong dreams into reality and fleeting moments into lasting memories.
Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc, France
A timeless legend perched on the sun-kissed tip of Cap d’Antibes, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is more than a French Riviera icon; it is a living legend holding French palace status that has played host to royalty, artists, and the world’s most discerning guests for over 150 years. Today, it extends its timeless elegance to Indian weddings, where multi-day celebrations meet cinematic backdrops and impeccable hospitality. Valerie Muller, Regional Head of Communications, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, reveals, “It is the emotional resonance of the location that crafts sensational wedding celebrations. We specialise in turning life’s most precious moments into unforgettable memories.”
Courting the Indian Wedding Market
At Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Indian weddings are welcomed with grandeur and sensitivity. The legendary Riviera property offers couples the rare chance to privatise the entire estate or host a more intimate celebration by the Mediterranean. Valerie believes that Indian families choose the property because they embrace the concept of openness to co-create. “We gladly collaborate with a chef personally chosen by the couple, who works alongside our Executive Chef Sébastien Broda to craft a bespoke menu, be it authentically Indian or a refined Indo-Mediterranean fusion. During the celebration, both culinary teams share the kitchen, combining their expertise to bring the envisioned menu to life,” she highlights.
The hotel also actively showcases its venues through esteemed Indian wedding planners and specialised media outlets dedicated to luxury and destination weddings. Valerie asserts, “We believe in close collaboration and require full involvement and consistent communication from event concept to production. It is, above all, a team effort.” They also offer planner incentives and are happy to recommend trusted partners who understand their property and standards.
Designing for Scale and Splendour
Their vast experience with a diverse international clientele makes them well-versed in accommodating a wide range of cultural traditions and specific requests. One of the key challenges in hosting Indian weddings is managing consistently high guest numbers across multiple events, often spread over several days. This requires a thoughtful rotation of venues, each spacious enough to host large gatherings without repetition. “At Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, we understand the importance of variety and scale. We offer multiple distinct settings from the garden’s Grande Allée to our pool deck and signature restaurants, each with its unique mood and character.” Their newest addition, The GlassHouse, is a crystal marquee nestled among pine trees that adds an elegant, versatile space ideal for multi-day celebrations.
Raffles The Palm, Dubai, UAE
Raffles The Palm Dubai offers a one-of-a-kind regal setting as Dubai’s only beachfront palace, presenting breathtaking venues for every wedding moment, from beachside varmala ceremonies and lively baraats to spectacular ballroom receptions. Vandana Dawar, Director of Sales, Raffles The Palm Dubai, notes, “What truly sets it apart is its cultural sensitivity, especially for Indian weddings, with dedicated bridal butlers, bespoke Indian menus, and even full resort buyouts.” Combined with expert wedding planners, picturesque backdrops, and an award-winning spa, it transforms dream weddings into unforgettable memories.
Targeting Indian Nuptials
The brand is strategically positioning itself as a premier Indian wedding destination through a multi-pronged, relationship-driven approach with top planners, travel designers, and DMCs. The resort showcases its palatial venues, bespoke bridal services, and tailored Indian catering via high-impact wedding shows, roadshows, and curated events across India. Vandana shares, “A key highlight of our PR efforts was an exclusive Wedding Sutra gathering in Mumbai, offering 20 leading planners a first-hand look at the resort’s opulent offerings and cultural alignment.”
Indian weddings are multi-day celebrations rich in rituals, large guest lists, and diverse culinary needs. Coordinating back-to-back events across various venues with distinct décor, flow, and customs can be complex. Sharing her strategy, Vandana says, “From religious traditions to regional cuisine, authenticity is everything. With our dedicated bridal butlers, Indian chefs, experienced planners, and trusted vendors, we ensure every moment is seamlessly coordinated, meaningful, and true to the couple’s vision.”
Formula for Flawless Execution
Close collaboration with wedding planners and travel agents is key to crafting flawless destination weddings. Vandana highlights, “The in-house team aligns on every detail from venue flow to cultural nuances while supporting external planners. To strengthen industry ties, Raffles also offers tailored incentives for partners.”
Well-equipped for large Indian wedding groups, Raffles provides the option to privatise the entire resort, creating an intimate, luxurious, multi-day celebration across suites, villas, and venues. “Every moment, from welcome to farewell, is designed to feel seamless, luxurious, and unforgettable,” she adds.
Vandana shares a great story from a recent wedding, when a bride’s heirloom ring went missing just hours before the ceremony. Emotions were running high, but the bridal butler located it discreetly and arranged an impromptu pre-ceremony moment where the bride’s parents placed the ring on her finger, echoing their own wedding decades earlier. What began as a crisis turned into a deeply emotional family reunion, a testament to Raffles’ signature blend of intuition, cultural sensitivity, and exceptional service.
Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Ubud, Bali
Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, offers a serene sanctuary in the heart of Ubud, Bali, where rainforest, rice paddies, majestic temple-like architecture, and the gently flowing Ayung River create a naturally elegant setting. Ariek Mahardika, Director Sales and Marketing, Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Ubud, Bali, says, “The blend of Balinese heritage and Ritz-Carlton service offers a rare mix of intimacy, elegance, and culture. From riverside altars to private villas, the resort draws both Indian and international couples seeking meaningful, intimate, unforgettable, luxurious celebrations.”
Deepening Ties with the Indian Wedding Market
Mandapa is actively strengthening its presence in the Indian wedding segment through strategic collaborations with top planners, luxury influencers, and curated bridal events. “Our engagement with the Indian market has been intentional. Participation in premium bridal events like the Wedding Show and curated FAM trips has allowed us to showcase Mandapa as a unique and culturally sensitive destination. We also tailor our offerings to celebrate Indian wedding rituals and cuisine, which is a critical element for Indian families who wish to celebrate tradition in an international setting,” shares Ariek.
Mandapa partners with luxury DMCs to manage every detail of guest travel from group bookings and transfers to curated leisure experiences like yoga, spa treatments, and temple tours. With 60 suites and villas, the Reserve offers privacy and exclusivity, often hosting full buyouts for truly immersive destination weddings.
Ariek shares his belief that successful destination weddings are the result of strong collaboration and clear communication. He notes, “Our in-house event specialists collaborate closely with wedding planners and travel partners from start to finish, offering site inspections, planning support, and on-ground coordination while offering exclusive packages as partner acknowledgment.”
Honouring Sacred Traditions
Indian weddings are vibrant, multi-layered celebrations that span multiple days and demand precision in logistics, sensitivity to rituals, and strong coordination across departments. Accommodating diverse diets, sourcing traditional décor or ceremonial items, and aligning with auspicious timings can be challenging, but with our skilled team and trusted vendor network, Mandapa ensures every celebration feels effortless, no matter how elaborate.
Ariek recalls one of Mandapa’s most unforgettable Indian weddings that blended Indian tradition with Bali’s sacred energy in a spiritually rich celebration. He shares, “The highlight was the homa yajna, a Vedic fire blessing with the ringing of the Balinese bell and the chanting of the Sanskrit mantras in the background.” Set amidst nature, the ceremony invited guests to release old patterns and set new intentions, offering a soul-stirring experience that left an unforgettable impression on all who attended.
Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Krabi, Thailand
Set against the dramatic coastal beauty of Krabi, Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, offers an exclusive and culturally rich wedding experience. With 54 villas and the options for a full resort buyout, it becomes an exclusive, luxurious haven for both intimate and grand multi-day celebrations. Vidya Sagar, General Manager, Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, says, “From Thai monk blessings and beachfront vows to Thai pavilion ceremonies and lively after parties, every detail is thoughtfully curated by our in-house dedicated wedding team.” Recognised with three MICHELIN Keys, the resort offers elegance, privacy, and unforgettable moments for discerning Indian and international couples.
India is a Key Market
The property has successfully hosted several Indian weddings with full resort buyouts, demonstrating not only the rising interest from Indian guests but also their proven capability to deliver seamless, large-scale celebrations. Vidya says, “India continues to be one of our most important source markets. We are committed to strengthening our presence in the Indian market through participation in wedding exhibitions, strategic collaborations with Indian trade media, and immersive experiences tailored to this audience. We hosted a group of Indian MICE and wedding planners at the resort, further deepening relationships.”
Round-trip transfers from Krabi International Airport ensure a smooth arrival, while curated touches like traditional Thai massages, island-hopping adventures, and signature dining experiences transform every wedding into a deeply immersive and luxurious celebration.
Expertly Orchestrated Indian Weddings
Indian weddings are vibrant, multi-day celebrations with pre-wedding functions. With Phulay Bay’s two-night, three-day resort buyout, all events can take place on-site, streamlining logistics. Vidya notes, “We understand the intricacies of multi-day Indian celebrations and work hand-in-hand with planners to ensure every element is cohesive, seamless, and unforgettable.” Working in collaboration with wedding planners and travel agents ensures every detail, from transport and accommodations to ceremonies and dining, is flawlessly executed. The resort offers tailored support through site visits, pre-wedding planning, and cultural customisation, particularly for complex Indian weddings.
Highlighting their unique selling point, Vidya sums up, “The resort’s team collaborates closely with planners to honour traditions from floral decor and symbolic blessings to custom vegetarian menus. Flexible dining options, including Thai, Mediterranean, and bespoke menus, ensure every guest’s needs are thoughtfully catered to.”
Cinnamon Bentota Beach, Sri Lanka
Cinnamon crafts experiences that are both distinctive and rooted in authenticity. Cinnamon Bentota Beach is particularly well-positioned in this regard as the setting is unique, located between the Indian Ocean and Bentota River, offering exclusivity and visual drama. “Architecturally, it is one of Geoffrey Bawa’s most iconic works, and the layout allows for a natural progression of events across lawns, beachfront, riverside, and ballroom,” shares Johan Aschan, Area Vice President, Sri Lanka Resorts, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, and General Manager, Cinnamon Bentota Beach, Signature Selection.
The Spectacular Indian Wedding
Johan says, “We understand the requirements of Indian destination weddings and the property has been mapped to accommodate functions ranging from the sangeet and mehndi to the pheras and reception. With 159 keys, a buy-out allows complete customisation and privacy. Cinnamon Bentota Beach becomes an intuitive choice for couples seeking a setting that feels both exclusive and versatile to accommodate their vision.”
The Cinnamon approach is intentionally selective and is positioned as an exclusive venue, with the majority of wedding clients preferring full property buy-outs to ensure complete privacy and control. “We engage with the Indian market through curated wedding exhibitions and long-standing relationships with planners and industry partners. Much of our traction comes through referrals, a reflection of the experience we offer. We are deliberate in securing weddings that align with the character of the property and the expectations of our guests,” he adds.
Designing the Extraordinary
Cinnamon follows industry best practices, partnering with local and international planners who manage logistics and events, while the in-house team ensures seamless coordination. Precise planning, contingency options, and flexibility in adapting resort spaces to suit each celebration’s unique requirements with minimal disruption to the overall experience allow for flawless execution of complex celebrations.
Logistical challenges are minimised by confirming events only during periods that allow them to deliver flawlessly without compromising guest experience, requiring careful calendar access to ensure a seamless hosting of large groups. Johan adds, “The more nuanced considerations tend to be cultural, particularly around cuisine. Cinnamon’s Indian chefs bring expertise across regions, and guest chefs are welcomed to co-curate menus, ensuring authenticity with impeccable service.
Recalling some of his most memorable wedding experiences, Johan shares, “One that truly stands out was when we transformed the pond into a mandap. Although it is not a space typically used for ceremonies, the experienced planner executed it beautifully. Since then, it has become one of our most requested spots! Another favourite was a vibrant carnival-themed evening in the garden, complete with food trucks and a variety of cuisines. We had a rain contingency in place; a separate marquee for 400 guests, carefully constructed without disturbing the trees, preserving the natural charm of the setting.”
Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah has established itself as a sought-after wedding destination for Indian and international couples alike. Fabien Chesnais, General Manager, Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah, points out, “With over 20 Indian weddings hosted in the past two years, our resort offers the best combination of the serenity of the Arabian Gulf, a pristine white-sand beachfront, and versatile venues from barefoot beach vows to grand ballroom receptions.” Whether families opt for a full buyout or a more intimate celebration, the resort’s experienced team ensures every detail is effortlessly executed.
Gateway to Celebrations of Scale and Style
Just 45 minutes from Dubai International Airport and a short 15-minute drive from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island offers unmatched accessibility for Indian wedding groups. The resort enhances the guest experience with airport transfers, group visa assistance through the UAE’s streamlined e-visa system, and pre-arrival concierge services.
Mövenpick’s commitment to the Indian wedding market goes beyond infrastructure. The resort has cultivated strong partnerships with wedding planners, event organisers, and travel agents, offering comprehensive planning-to-execution support. From venue walkthroughs to vendor coordination, the resort’s dedicated wedding concierge manages all operational logistics, including permits and AV support for choreographer rehearsals. Perks for large groups include upgrades, F&B discounts, and green rooms. Indian agents benefit from DMC tie-ups, marketing kits, and co-branded assets to promote the resort.
Indian Weddings – Ras Al Khaimah Style
With experience in large-scale celebrations and an eye for detail, the resort offers a seamless setting where every ritual is honoured and every moment elevated. “Indian weddings are a vibrant symphony of traditions, each with its own charm and significance. From beachfront haldi ceremonies and garden mehndis to high-energy sangeet, we manage each event with precision, cultural sensitivity, and flair. We understand the importance of Indian culinary traditions and offer fully vegetarian or Jain menus and open-air spaces for fire rituals. Our Indian chefs cater to every detail, from live chaat stations to South Indian breakfasts and North Indian feasts,” says Fabien. With 418 rooms, including 28 beachfront suites with private pools, the resort easily accommodates large entourages. Room clustering keeps families close, while amenities like Neo Sky Bar, kids’ clubs, and teen zones ensure guests remain entertained.
Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection, Dubai, UAE
The hotels have emerged as a preferred choice for Indian and international couples, offering a refined blend of luxury and cultural understanding. Whether hosting an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, the properties provide stunning venues, advanced facilities, and dedicated wedding specialists who work closely with couples to bring their vision to life. Stefan Radstrom, Complex General Manager, Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection, Dubai, highlights, “The location provides easy access for international guests to explore Dubai, and a seamless blend of tradition and modernity makes it the ideal wedding destination.”
Strategic Outreach to the Indian Wedding Market
Sharing their marketing strategy, Stefan notes, “We actively target the Indian market through digital campaigns on popular social media platforms, collaboration with leading wedding magazines, and participation in major wedding exhibitions. We also work closely with Indian wedding planners and influencers to showcase our venues and services. Additionally, we host pre-wedding tastings, fam trips for planners, and customised events to build strong relationships. Our marketing emphasises our cultural understanding, flexible wedding packages, and our ability to deliver authentic Indian wedding experiences in Dubai.”
They partner proactively with wedding planners and travel agents, establishing dedicated teams to facilitate efficient planning and execution. “Our collaboration involves customised planning sessions, real-time communication, and comprehensive support to ensure logistical smoothness and guest satisfaction. We also provide attractive and exclusive wedding packages to strengthen these partnerships,” he adds.
Expertise in Managing Large-Scale Indian Weddings
Hosting large-scale Indian weddings is a multifaceted endeavour, from managing multiple venues and guest logistics to honouring cultural and religious traditions with authenticity. At Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection, years of experience, strong vendor partnerships, and meticulous planning ensure each celebration unfolds flawlessly. “Our strength lies in understanding the nuances of Indian weddings and delivering every element from fire-compliant venues to regional menus and guest logistics with absolute precision,” shares Stefan.
Dedicated guest relations and events teams handle everything from airport transfers and tailored room packages to last-minute requests. Multilingual staff, including Hindi speakers, enhance communication, while flexible check-in/out and trusted transport partnerships ensure a smooth experience. The result: stress-free, memorable weddings where every detail is thoughtfully managed.
Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort, Pattaya, Thailand
Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort Pattaya is fast becoming a favourite for Indian destination weddings where sun, sea, and celebration come together in perfect harmony. Moumita Paul, Director of Sales and Marketing, Centara Hotels and Resorts, says, “Thanks to its multiple versatile venues, including a private beach ideal for ceremonies by the sea, the resort is gaining in popularity. The in-house waterpark also adds to the charm, giving families and guests a chance to unwind and enjoy wedding festivities in a fun, relaxed setting.”
Pioneers of Hosting Indian Weddings
Sharing Centara’s vast experience in hosting opulent weddings, Moumita notes, “Centara Grand Mirage Pattaya has been a pioneer in hosting Indian weddings. We have had the privilege of celebrating diverse cultural traditions, and I can proudly say that we have mastered the art of it.” With an experienced team that understands Indian customs and the scale of weddings, Centara Grand Mirage offers more than just a venue; it delivers an experience that is warm, joyous, and truly unforgettable.
“We are in touch with various wedding planners and event companies, and we offer a range of wedding packages that specifically promote Indian weddings. We do offer incentives to wedding planners and event management companies, and we are currently working on introducing additional incentives for next year,” notes Moumita. Centara participates in multiple wedding events throughout the year to maintain strong visibility in the Indian wedding market, foster lasting relationships with industry professionals, and stay aligned with evolving trends and expectations of modern couples.
From Lavish Weddings to Landmark Events
In the space of hosting large wedding gatherings, Centara is also well known as a brand with top-notch MICE facilities, especially in Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket. We have one of the largest convention centres attached to our properties, along with our own ballrooms.
Moumita goes on to share, “We have had the privilege of hosting the Maruti Suzuki group with us for several years, which has been one of the most successful case studies from our MICE segment at Centara. We were also honoured to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a prestigious event held at our flagship property, Centara Grand at CentralWorld, Bangkok.”