Explore This Hot New Wedding Venue at Disney’s The Swan Reserve

(PHOTOS COURTESY THE SWAN RESERVE)

Is it the right vibe? Is it big enough? Can my vision come to life? This is just a sampling of the myriad of questions newly engaged couples ask when it comes to selecting a location for their wedding ceremony and reception. And if you’re planning a celebration in Central Florida, you know that there’s no shortage of potential venues, which somehow makes things even more overwhelming.

That’s why it’s important to pick a place that not only has top notch service, but also can be a customizable canvas for your big day. Luckily, Walt Disney World’s Swan Reserve checks all those boxes and more. Located across the street from the iconic Swan and Dolphin resorts and next to Fantasia Gardens mini golf, is the fourteen-floor resort that opened its doors November 2021.

(PHOTOS COURTESY THE SWAN RESERVE)

Your big day can be held at any of the spots within the hotel, depending on the size of your party and your budget. “We’ve got something for everybody. We have weddings that range anywhere from $5,000 up to $25,000 for minimums, and then they go up from there,” says Jennifer Sharpe, CWP, Senior Catering Sales Event Manager, The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin and Swan Reserve. “If you want a small, intimate ceremony, for two to 20 people, we have smaller, intimate packages. Plus, we have locations to handle a smaller group or a destination wedding, and if you’re a local, or you want to do a larger scale reception, we have the space for that as well.”

(PHOTOS COURTESY THE SWAN RESERVE)

The largest space on site is the 6,000 square foot Harbor Ballroom on the ground floor. Its classic ballroom ambiance paired with its 300-person capacity is ideal for those looking for a large fete with an elegant backdrop. There’s also the neighboring, Oasis Ballroom, with 2,000 square feet. However as its name implies, The Vue, a rooftop event space, has something the others don’t: A one-of-a-kind view. Located on the top floor of the hotel, weddings held here have access to an interior room with wow-worthy light fixtures along with a covered terrace (big enough for a few tables and a bar) that overlook the Walt Disney World Resort sprawl. The best perk? Thanks to The Swan Reserve’s proximity to Epcot Center, guests will have a primo view of their fireworks that happen nightly at 9 p.m. along with displays from the other parks as well.

Beyond the ballrooms, there are other spots on property that can be used for cocktail hour, the rehearsal dinner, or the reception itself. Stir, the upscale craft cocktail bar that’s outfitted like a tropical oasis is a great place for drinks along with Tangerine, the outdoor patio lounge adjacent to the pool. The more traditional restaurant on site is Amare, which feels like you’re on the coast of Italy or Greece thanks to its Mediterranean ambiance and menu that includes dishes like charred octopus, lamb dumplings, and tonnarelli alle vongole.

(PHOTOS COURTESY THE SWAN RESERVE)

The Swan Reserve also prides itself on its top-notch service and culinary options. “We’re now doing synchronized service for all of our dinner events here,” explains Sharpe. “If a couple opts for a plated meal, all the servers will encircle the table at once, placing the food down at the same time. That way there’s no waiting for others at your table to be served — and it’ll cut back on clanking plate covers.” The on-site caterers love to work with the bride and groom to ensure they’re serving something to their liking, no matter

their palate. Even better, you can team up with one of The Swan Reserve’s first-level sommeliers to create wine and food pairings to elevate the traditional plated dining experience. For more casual foodies, you can create stations throughout the reception area, and don’t forget to work with one of the resort’s mixologists to concoct the perfect signature sip. According to Sharpe, the team can bring to life whatever you can dream of.

(PHOTOS COURTESY THE SWAN RESERVE)

“The Swan Reserve definitely has more of a contemporary feel,” furthers Sharpe. “It’s for a modern bride or someone who wants more of a cityscape backdrop.” And just like the convenience of a big city hotel, The Swan Reserve gives wedding guests easy access to the rest of Walt Disney World, with Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios being just walking distance away.

Guests on the property also have full access to the neighboring Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts, so they can enjoy their six pools, explore the private beach, dine at one of the eighteen restaurants and lounges, or unwind at the Mandara Spa. Additionally, anyone with littles ages five to twelve can enroll them in Camp Dolphin, a supervised kids club with board games, arts and crafts, videos and more, so parents can attend the wedding festivities without having to scramble for a sitter. This full access also allows the soon-to-be bride and groom to plan festivities across the three resorts, making the possibilities for a fun-filled weekend itinerary boundless.

(PHOTOS COURTESY THE SWAN RESERVE)

Another perk for booking a wedding at The Swan Reserve? “We’re an Autograph Hotel, so it’s a Marriott property and by staying here you’ll get your Bonvoy points” says Sharpe. “If mom and dad are paying for the bill, they’re going to get a point for every dollar they spend — so they can take a little vacation after the wedding. Or if the engaged couple is paying, they can use those points towards a future trip.” A wedding that could possibly pay for a future honeymoon? Now that’s truly a happily ever after.