Planning a luxury wedding in Michigan or searching for the perfect downtown Grand Rapids wedding venue? In this episode of the Wedding Planning Experts Podcast, hosts Dan and Andrea DeWard of Full Circle Weddings sit down with Olivia LaVergne, Event Manager at the JW Marriott Grand Rapids, one of West Michigan’s most sought-after luxury hotel wedding venues.

Located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, the JW Marriott delivers an elevated destination-style wedding weekend experience with stunning event spaces, upscale guest rooms, on-site catering, and luxury amenities—making it a top choice for engaged couples dreaming of a stress-free, all-in-one wedding celebration.

Olivia shares expert insight on what couples can expect when hosting their wedding at a luxury hotel venue, from venue tours and design planning to catering, bar service, guest accommodations, and timeline logistics. Dan and Andrea also break down the difference between hiring a wedding planner versus a day-of coordinator, helping couples understand what level of support they truly need.

Whether you’re an engaged couple, a bride feeling overwhelmed, or planning a sophisticated hotel wedding weekend, this episode offers practical advice, insider tips, and real-world expectations to help you plan with confidence.

• Luxury wedding venues in Grand Rapids, Michigan

• JW Marriott Grand Rapids wedding experience

• Venue tour options and what to expect

• Floral and wedding décor planning process

• Catering, bar service, and menu creation

• Taste testing and wedding menu planning

• Wedding cakes and dessert options

• Bridal suite for hair and makeup

• Wedding rehearsal logistics

• Start and stop times for wedding events

• Guest rooms and hotel accommodations

• Guest parking options, including valet

• On-site amenities like the spa and pool

• Destination wedding weekend planning

• Wedding planner versus wedding coordinator

Find Dan & Andrea DeWard online at... - Full Circle Weddings - West Michigan - Website: https://fullcircleweddings.com/

Find Wedding Planning Experts online at... - Website: https://weddingplanningexperts.com/ - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWeddingPlanningExperts - FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/WeddingPlanningExperts - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theweddingplanningexperts

Wedding Planning Experts is produced by Dan and Andrea DeWard with Full Circle Weddings.