In an exclusive conversation with BW HOTELIER, Wilbur Tauro, Director of Food & Beverage, JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort & Spa highlights as to how the picturesque mountains and the misty serene locales will make Marriott Mussoorie an ideal venue for weddings.

How has the pandemic affected the strategy for weddings at Marriott in the hills?

Today’s bent of mind is– small is big, exclusive is indulgence and ‘SAFE IS THE NEW LUXURY’ provided by JW Mariott Mussoorie. In our attempt of being the safest haven for the weddings, we are now working on complete programme setup of functions that will have limited guests which will further enable us to personalise each and every experience from pre-arrival to post-arrival of the guests. One of the rarest of exotic locales, our Himalayan wedding venues boasts a special niche to make wedding a memorable experience.

What are the different facilities offered by your hotel for weddings?

Surrounded by lush natural foliage, the exquisite JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort & Spa is situated at the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan range. Nestled among glittering valleys, towering oaks and beautiful walking trails, the true-to-nature elements serve as the inspiration to bring this magnificent resort to life. Being one of the leading luxury resorts of the country comprising of 115 state-of-the-art accommodations with scenic views of the valleys, the resort is an epitome of sophistication and a heightened sense of comfort redefining luxury. We orchestrate an experience where no detail is ever too small to escape notice, and where genuine warm hospitality is enhanced by the subtle nuances of highly anticipatory service. 

JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort & Spa is the perfect place to enjoy the serenity of nature in the lap of luxury. One can exchange their wedding vows in one of our five refined venues with over 4,000 square feet of space. Dance the night away with 350 guests in the glittering chandelier hanging Grand Orchard Ballroom or host alfresco wedding gatherings at our stunning outdoor venues comprising of the JW Lawns and Amphitheatre. Our expert event planners organise all details for the wedding. We offer delicious cuisine from across the globe and local delicacies handcrafted by our acclaimed Master Chefs. JW Marriott Mussoorie has established itself as one of the leading wedding destinations of the country by offering unique wedding experiences like Himalayan wedding, White wedding and Wild weddings to name a few. 

Is there anything you would like us to know about the special packages for weddings at Marriott?

We believe that intimate weddings will be the way forward and ‘Intimate Weddings by Marriott’ caters to just that. It involves creating meaningful and engaging experiences for guests on priority, along with precautionary measures in check. We do not expect big weddings and large gatherings for at least next six months after the lockdown is completely removed. We foresee an all-time low demand in couples opting for destination weddings. Sanitisation of venues will be a noticeably big factor before finalising a venue. We need to take extra care to ensure that the food is made in kitchens and at live counters is hygienic, fresh, and authentic. Immunity boosting food section might become a must choice to have in options just like a Jain food section. Plus, we will see a decrease in the average spend on weddings at least for next two years. F&B trends are evolving and at Marriott International, we want to ensure our hotels deliver top-quality event concepts.

What are currently the major challenges for Tourism in Uttarakhand?

More than a challenge, it is to do with an in-depth awareness for Tourism in Uttarakhand. The government authorities and industry leaders across all genres need to have a safe yet cohesive approach during such times. JW Marriott Mussoorie has implemented the new normal while keeping the aforementioned in mind. We have welcomed our guests to experience the serenity of the hills by imbibing safety and exclusivity through 'Commitment to Clean' endeavour, which is an initiative by Marriott International to ensure the safety of the guests as we look forward to the post COVID era.

Our team has worked relentlessly to assure that we create an environment committed towards ‘Safe is the New Luxury’ where you feel comfortable and safe. We have ensured that we meet the latest guidelines on hygiene and clinical cleaning sanctioned by the WHO, Marriott International and the local authorities.

How are hotels surviving in Uttarakhand?

The need of the hour is to explore and invent as you go along. With a commitment to conduct value-creating engagement for our virtual followers and well-wishers, JW Marriott Mussoorie curated multiple culinary meetings ranging from sustainable Himalayan delicacies to offbeat creations, further enthralling everyone on digital and social media platforms. It has been well received and soon we’ll be providing Master Chef Series online, wherein our guests can learn from culinary maestros while sitting at home.