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Q & A with Dawn Candrea, Wedding Specialist
With our Bridal Showcase right around the corner on October 28th it’s the perfect time to sit down with Dawn Candrea, the onsite Wedding Specialist at Arizona Grand Resort & Spa and learn more about what makes our resort an extraordinary wedding venue.
Are you planning a wedding? Know someone planning a wedding? Dreaming of getting engaged? Get a real insider’s look at what sets Arizona Grand Resort & Spa apart and how to create your dream wedding that is uniquely yours.
1. Tell us what makes the location unique.
Arizona Grand Resort & Spa is located in one of Arizona's most naturally beautiful places; South Mountain Preserve, the largest municipal park in the world. The resort grounds are kept full and lush, creating a hidden garden oasis in the Sonoran Desert. Our unique touches like dramatic Spanish architecture, amazing fountains, twinkle-lit palm trees and intimate courtyards create grand settings for a wedding.
2. What should brides know about Arizona Grand Resort & Spa?
The Arizona Grand is perfect for couples that know exactly what they want and for those just beginning the planning process. Couples can choose from several versatile indoor and outdoor spaces for their ideal event venue. From romantic to casual, from glitzy to rustic, from intimate to grand. Couples can create a wedding that is unique to them and they will have a dedicated wedding specialist to assist them in every step of the process.
3. What differentiates Arizona Grand Resort & Spa from other wedding venues?
Arizona Grand Resort & Spa is a AAA, Four Diamond all-suite property. Our large property features a water park for guests, private restaurants, golf course, dozens of flexible venues, and a full service spa and salon. Arizona Grand is perfect for destination wedding couples. They choose our resort for their destination wedding because we offer so many services onsite from a welcome reception to your post-wedding brunch all available in one location. Plus the convenience allows you and your guests to enjoy a fabulous stress-free experience.
4. What is your specialty and what are you known for?
The Arizona Grand is known for strong attention to the tiniest details and for creating a truly customized wedding experience. Couples have a dedicated wedding specialist that is with them every step, from the venue scout to the farewell exit. Time and time again we hear from our wedding guests that our food is the most memorable. We strive to offer more than the standard “banquet” food and our expert culinary team holds themselves to a high standard.
5. What are some tips to create a memorable wedding?
We know as well as anyone that there are a lot of great wedding ideas out there (especially on Pinterest!), but you cannot do everything; nor do you want to overwhelm yourself with the task. Instead I suggest focusing on five fabulous key moments that will keep your guests talking well after the event. I call it the “Fabulous Five”! First, you have to have fabulous food at your event. Trust me, your guests will remember if the food was good or if it was bad – this can make or break your event. Secondly, let’s have some FUN! Guests always remember the weddings they have the most fun at; I believe a great DJ or a live band can create the perfect atmosphere for fun. Thirdly, adding special entertainment to enhance your guest experience such as a live musician for cocktail hour, a photo booth, a clever s’mores buffet or cigar roller – essentially any fun activity that your guests can enjoy together. This leaves you with two fabulous final opportunities to wow your guests. A late snack is always a good idea, featuring menus such as mini burger sliders with milk shakes or a hot pizza station. Wrapping up the night with a grand sparkler exit will leave your guests with a very special memory of your big day for years to come.
6. What is your expert advice for brides?
Your venue you select sets the tone for your entire event. Choosing a resort invites your guests to consider your big day as a destination vacation. The resort environment at Arizona Grand is a perfect place to bring together your family and friends and create an event that is truly memorable.
To get more bridal tips and meet fabulous local vendors join us at the fall Bridal Showcase for a fun afternoon of wedding inspiration in the Arizona Grand Ballroom on October 28th from 1-4pm. We’re here to help you create a day that is fun, fabulous and uniquely you. The Bridal Showcase offers you the opportunity to experience all Arizona Grand has to offer and meet our staff of Wedding Professionals and Preferred Wedding Partners. Learn the tips and tricks to create an unforgettable experience for your guests, sample culinary flavors, enjoy signature cocktails, connect with vendors and tour Grand wedding and reception venues.
Dawn Candrea is with you every step of the way- like on Nick & Eva's big day!
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