At Omni La Mansión del Rio, it’s the people who make the experience. Every bride and groom hopes to feel taken care of and stress-free on their wedding day. That’s why it’s essential for couples to surround themselves with event professionals who have the winning combination of passion and experience—two words that epitomize the staff at La Mansión.

“Our employees have a passion for their craft, putting on flawless events and creating memorable experiences,” says Catering Sales Manager Krystal Senn. “We have a lot of pride in what we do and we love to keep our couples happy”—a feat more easily accomplished when you have a devoted staff. “It’s nice to have someone who knows what to expect and can anticipate your every need,” Krystal adds.

For this timeless hotel on the Riverwalk in the heart of downtown San Antonio, it’s Krystal’s job to sell not only La Mansión’s space, but also her undivided attention. She works exclusively with each couple—getting to know them so she can capture the vision they have for their wedding day. “I love putting together all of their thoughts and seeing how happy they are the day of,” Krystal says. “But it’s a momentous occasion in our couples’ lives—and an emotional process, which means they’re invested in the venue they’ve chosen and the people they’re working with.”

It takes a team to achieve the success that brings La Mansión’s brides and grooms back year after year, generation after generation, to celebrate anniversaries, vow renewals, and other loved ones’ weddings. “It’s incredible to be a part of something bigger than myself,” says Banquet Captain Robert King, who’s worked at La Mansión for more than 20 years. “I take pride in knowing that at the end of every event, I share a small part in each guest’s unique memories.”

It’s also the little things that enhance the experience and add up to exceptional service. “There are so many things you can do to make the bride and groom happy, whether it’s a bottle of champagne or chocolate to greet them in their guest room or a special hors d’oeuvre plate for them to snack on before entering the ballroom to greet their guests,” says Lily Najjar, who’s worked in banquets for three years. The staff’s desire to create the most comfortable, beautiful, awe-inspiring day possible is why brides and grooms love this Riverwalk jewel.

Of course, La Mansión’s Spanish Colonial architecture and timeless elegance also put stars in the eyes of soon-to-be newlyweds. The hotel was originally established in 1853 as St. Mary’s Academy, then opened its doors as a luxury hotel in 1968 for the San Antonio World’s Fair. Today, La Mansión presents couples with a collection of spaces ideal for ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners, and beyond.

A charming Mediterranean-style courtyard impresses with tropical foliage and a fountain in front of which couples can exchange vows. “The courtyard feels like an oasis in the city,” says Sarah James, director of catering and conference services. “The lush space creates a tranquil and gorgeous backdrop for a romantic ceremony.” While for receptions, El Capistrano on the hotel’s first floor boasts exposed wood beams and arched windows overlooking the pool courtyard. An adjoining sunroom, ideal for indoor ceremonies or cocktails, features terracotta tile flooring, a skylight, and antique star lanterns dangling from the ceiling.

For couples dreaming of a ballroom wedding, Veramendi Ballroom is an intimate setting featuring French-style windows that allow natural light to pour in during daytime events and showcase the city’s sparkling skyline at night. For more traditional celebrations with a bit of grandeur, the Iberian Ballroom has its own private foyer with a marble staircase, three magnificent crystal chandeliers, and a wall of French doors that open to a breezeway perfect for cocktail hour. Equally dazzling is the Madero Ballroom with its own foyer and private entrance and two extravagant crystal chandeliers.