Photo: Matt Teuten Photography

Where to stay on the big night? That is the question! Whether you’re a local or destination bride, this is a decision you and your fianc&#233 will eventually have to make and one that obviously can’t wait until the last minute. Before you get a room though, you’ll want to take these 6 factors into consideration. Because duh, they’re the key to wedding night success!

1. Remember that, realistically, you won’t spend much time there
Waking hours, that is! In fact, most newlyweds report that they crash hard and don’t do anything but sleep, with romance taking place the next day, points out planner Sandy Malone, owner of Wedding in Vieques. Unless you’re going to be staying in that room for several days or honeymooning there, she recommends not breaking the bank on something extraordinary. “That money is far better spent on the first night of your real honeymoon.”

2. Think comfort and proximity
Delaying the honeymoon? Then going the extra mile to find the perfect place to stay on your wedding night may not be such a bad idea. Just make sure you’re not traveling a ton of extra miles just to get to your hotel! Event planner and owner of Simply Charming Socials, Kristine Cholakian Cooke, suggests choosing a relaxing, convenient, and special option. “Remember that you will be tired after such a long day so opt to stay somewhere close enough to reach easily after your send-off and (if you can afford it) always splurge for a big comfy bed,” she advises.

3. Weigh privacy verse time spent with family and friends
If you opt to stay at the same hotel as your guests, conceivably you’re vowing to give up a sense of privacy, warns Greg Jenkins, founder of Bravo Productions. “There are always some people who will demand your constant attention even if you put up a ‘do not disturb’ sign on the door.” Basically, there is no escape! Now, on the other hand, the upside is you get to spend more time with those family members and friends who came from afar to attend the wedding, he notes. “It makes it easy to visit with individuals that you may not see that often.” So really, it’s up to you to figure out what you prefer: privacy and romance or more time with family and friends. You may also want to consider staying on a different floor from the rest of your guests to get the best of both worlds, says The Chosen Few members and event designers, Pat and Glenn of Pat Glenn Productions.

See More: What Destination Weddings Cost Guests in Travel and Accommodations

4. Inquire about the room location and noise
First things first, make sure your room isn’t close to a busy pool, street, elevator, construction or any other distractions, recommends Regina Osgood, owner of Meant2Be Events. “The noise can be disruptive on this special occasion. And just as important is how close you are to other guests. For example, you wouldn’t want to share a wall with a room with your in-laws in it (and yes this has happened before)!”

5. Ask yourself if you really want to go back to your apartment post-wedding
Chances are, you don’t! While there’s no need to spend a ton of money on an over the top suite, wedding planner Leah Weinberg, owner of Color Pop Events, urges couples not to just go home. Instead, try this tip: “The hotel where you book your guest blocks will often comp you a room or upgrade you if you meet the minimum room requirement.” It’s worth a shot at least!

6. Check out the ambiance and amenities
See if there’s a cool lobby or bar lounge area where everyone can convene and enjoy time together even after you (the bride and groom) go to bed, suggests celebrity event planner Michael Cerbelli, CEO & President of Cerbelli Creative. “Also, consider a hotel that may have a great spot for brunch for the day after or a room you can reserve with grab and go food so the couple can easily just come downstairs and say thank you and goodbye.”

Source: Bride