How do we handle guest accommodation in Marrakech?

Guest accommodation is one of those things that seems simple until you start doing it. In my experience, the best approach is to offer three tiers of accommodation so every guest can choose based on their own budget. I always recommend this structure. Budget tier: riads in the Medina at 60 to 120 euros per night. These are charming traditional houses with courtyards, rooftop terraces, and that authentic Moroccan feeling. The trade-off is that riads can be hard to find (Medina streets are confusing), rooms are sometimes small, and not all have air conditioning. Send your guests a pin drop on Google Maps, not just an address. Mid-range tier: 4-star hotels like Kenzi Menara or Hivernage Hotel at 120 to 200 euros per night. These are comfortable, easy to find, have pools and restaurants, and guests who are not adventurous travelers will feel at home. Luxury tier: La Mamounia at 400 to 800 euros per night, or Royal Mansour at 600 to 1,200 euros per night. These are for guests who want the full experience. Not everyone will book these, but always include the option. Here is what most guides do not mention. If your wedding venue has on-site accommodation, that is your most valuable block. Beldi Country Club has 40 rooms spread across suites and bungalows, and guests staying on-site can walk to the wedding and back without any transport logistics. Jnane Tamsna has 24 rooms in the same neighborhood as Beldi. Having your closest friends and family on-site creates that house-party feeling that destination weddings are all about. Book room blocks 8 to 10 months ahead, especially for peak season. Contact hotels directly, not through booking platforms, and negotiate group rates. Most hotels offer 10 to 15% off for blocks of 10 or more rooms. Some will hold a block with a 30-day release clause, meaning unsold rooms go back to general inventory 30 days before the wedding, so you do not get stuck paying for empty rooms. Airport transfers matter more than you think. Marrakech Menara Airport is 20 to 40 minutes from most hotels depending on traffic and location. If 50 guests are arriving across 15 different flights over two days, coordinating transfers is a real logistical task. I have seen couples underestimate this and leave guests stranded at the airport trying to negotiate with taxi drivers who do not speak their language. Your planner should arrange a shared shuttle schedule or private car service. Budget 15 to 20 euros per guest for a private transfer or 8 to 10 euros per guest for a shared shuttle. One touch I love and always recommend is a welcome bag at the hotel. Include a city map with your favorite restaurants marked, a small bottle of argan oil or Moroccan sweets, a printed itinerary for the wedding weekend, and a card with emergency numbers and your planner's WhatsApp. It costs about 15 to 25 euros per bag and makes guests feel taken care of from the moment they arrive.