How far in advance can I book my wedding?
Typically we are able to book your ceremony 12-15 months in advance, depending on your desired date, the size of your group, and desired ceremony site.
How much advance notice is needed for booking a wedding ceremony or reception?
We recommend a one week minimum for ceremonies and a two month minimum for receptions. We are capable of handling last-minute requests, subject to space and staff availability. Holidays and weekends are peak time periods for our property and are subject to availability without sufficient notice.
Is a deposit required?
Yes. For the Ceremony portion a 50% non-refundable deposit is required. For Receptions, a 25% non-refundable deposit of the Food & Beverage minimum is due at contract signing, then another deposit is due at the half way mark, and then final payment is due on the estimate final bill at 30 days prior.
Are there discounted room rates for members of the wedding party and guests if they want to stay at the resort?
Yes, Room blocks with special rates can be arranged for 10 or more guest rooms on one peak night through the hotel’s sales department.
Do I have to be a guest of the WDW Swan and Dolphin to get married there?
No. You don’t have to be a guest staying at the resort.
If I book a Swan wedding, do I have to book a reception at the hotel?
No. A ceremony can be booked at the hotel without booking a reception. The hotel offers many post-ceremony and reception dining options!
What if it rains?
We always secure a backup banquet space inside the hotel to accommodate your wedding and guests in case of inclement weather.
Is there a limit to the number of guests we can invite?
No. The hotel does not limit the number of wedding guests. The hotel has an variety of indoor and outdoor locations across the property to accommodate groups of all sizes.
Will there be an area to get dressed on the day of the wedding?
No. The hotel does not offer a “Getting Ready” room for the wedding. It is suggested for the couple to book a hotel room for this need.
Is there a fee for parking at the WDW Swan and Dolphin Resort?
Yes. The fee for self-parking at the resort is $36 + tax per exit and $44 + tax for valet parking (pricing subject to change).
What is the best time of day for a ceremony?
The best times of day to hold a ceremony are early to mid-morning or late afternoon to early evening (most comfortable temperature and lighting for outdoor photos). However, we are happy to accommodate any time preference (based on availability).
Are discount tickets to the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks included?
No. Tickets and discounts for admission to any of the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks and attractions are not included in the wedding packages; however, they can be arranged through our Disney Ticket Representative or you can purchase them direct at the Disney Desk in either hotel lobby once you arrive to the property.
Do we need a marriage license?
Yes. Florida law dictates the conditions for marriage license issuance and the fees. The Clerk of Courts provides an information sheet to help you understand the requirements of the law and to answer questions which are frequently asked.
ROOM BLOCK INFORMATION
What are the requirements to qualify for a group room block and rate?
In order to qualify for a group room block and group rate, a minimum of 10 rooms on at least one peak night is required.
What is the most common example of a group room block request for a wedding or social event?
From experience, most wedding or social event “peak nights” fall the night before the actual event and the night of the event. Some blocks will include a handful of rooms 1-2 days prior to the night before and 1-2 nights post event night, based on preference. Below is an example of a group room block:
i. *Example per night Room Block Needs*
ii. Two Nights Event Day – 4 rooms
iii. NIGHT BEFORE Event – 10 rooms
iv. NIGHT OF Event – 10 room
v. One night Post Actual Event Day – 3 rooms
vi. Two Nights Post Actual Event Day – All are now checked-out
Are wedding and social event room blocks guaranteed at the Hotel in which the Ceremony and/or Reception is located?
The Resort is unable to guarantee a group room block prior to the return of executed contract (agreement). Once the per night room needs are provided, the Sales team will review the guestroom availability at all three hotels (The Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve) and will present all available run of house group rate option(s) for consideration. Guestrooms are not held out of inventory without a signed formal contract (agreement) and the proposed option(s) is based upon the hotel’s continued availability.