Seasons of Bliss

By: Mahmood Hossain

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts are synonymous with the highest of standards, where each meticulous detail awakens all your senses. From the location to the amenities, a Four Seasons property provides an experience rivalling other formidable establishments in the field of hospitality. The Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, in particular, is a shining example of the aforementioned prestige. Advantageously located in the midst of galleries, boutiques, restaurants and cafes, the hotel was ranked third on The World’s 50 Best Hotels List 2023, becoming an integral component of an energetic riverside neighbourhood. This urban resort opens doors to new discoveries with 299 keys, stunning views of the river, expansive infinity pools, and plush green courtyards.

Not only is there drama, intimacy, and charisma in the hotel’s design and spaces, guests have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Bangkok’s sightseeing and touring essentials just a stone’s throw away. If you’re searching for an ideal location for wedding festivities, celebrations near the river are a coveted prospect, especially when they’re facilitated by the hotel’s expert team. If you require a bit more convincing, Lubosh Barta, Regional Vice President and General Manager of The Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, shares his thoughts on what makes this stunning property a desirable one for weddings.

What makes Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River ideal for an Indian celebration?

This property is a paradise by the river; a unique urban resort where guests can enjoy the sophistication and elegance expected in a bustling urban centre, while indulging in a serene and relaxing atmosphere akin to a resort.

Imagine hosting your grand celebration amidst our sprawling outdoor courtyards and lush greenery overlooking the Chao Phraya River. Our two ballrooms, the majestic Grand Ballroom and the intimate Conservatory Ballroom cater to every kind of event, big or small. With six exquisite food and beverage outlets and a destination bar that’s the talk of the town, our innovative presentation and mouthwatering cuisine will ensure that your celebration is unforgettable.

How many Indian weddings have you hosted over the last year, and what makes them stand out from the rest?

In the past year, we’ve had the honour of hosting six magnificent Indian weddings. Each event utilised our stunning outdoor Ballroom Terrace for the phera ceremony and the Grand Ballroom for the cocktail reception. What sets these weddings apart is the seamless indoor-outdoor experience, paired with our exceptional food and beverage offerings that leave guests raving long after the festivities are over.

What’s the largest Indian wedding you’ve hosted, and what made it so unique?

The grandest Indian wedding we’ve hosted was for over 900 guests. This event fully utilised the Four Seasons Grand Ballroom and the outdoor terrace, transforming the space into a magical wonderland. It was a high-profile affair that had everyone in town talking. The sheer scale and opulence of the celebration were truly remarkable, and it was an honour to be part of such a significant event.

F&B options and catering are critical components of Indian weddings. Do you offer Indian cuisine, and are you incorporating your F&B outlets at Indian events? If so, how are they facilitated?

Absolutely! We offer a delightful array of Indian cuisine by partnering with a renowned local Indian restaurant. Their chefs cook in-house, ensuring the freshest ingredients and authentic flavours. Additionally, we integrate our restaurant and bars into the festivities. Riva del Fiume, Palmier by Chef Guillaume Galliot and Yu Ting Yuan all offer dishes, while BKK Social Club crafts bespoke cocktails for the couple, making every celebration unique and memorable.

Which dish has been the most popular from the hotel at Indian events?

During Indian weddings, people have focused on a variety of international dishes, the most popular of which include:

•​Molecular pani puri

•​Taglioni with cheese wheel

•​Seafood tower

•​Khao soy tofu

•​Robata grilled delights

•​Spanish seafood paella.

•​Bao with creamy broccoli

•​Affogato ice cream

Which venues at the hotel have been most popular for large scale events?

Our Grand Ballroom, designed by the legendary Jean-Michel Gathy, is the top choice for Indian events. The ballroom’s seamless transition to the Ballroom Terrace is especially favoured for cocktail parties, allowing guests to enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting while indulging in exquisite food and drink.

What have been the most unique requests the hotel has encountered at a wedding?

Honestly, our wedding couples are all about giving their guests the best experience, especially when it comes to food and beverage. While we haven’t had any outlandish requests, the creativity in how they want to delight their guests always keeps us on our toes!

How has your personal experience been with Indian weddings? What makes it fun and exciting for you?

Indian weddings are a burst of joy and celebration. I love witnessing the coming together of friends and families to celebrate the couple. The elaborate set of decorations transforms our spaces into magical realms, and the palpable love and happiness throughout the event are truly infectious. It’s an honour to be part of such vibrant and heartwarming celebrations.

What are some current challenges in facilitating Indian events?

One of our biggest challenges is accommodating requests for outdoor pool parties. Given the hotel’s layout, with two restaurants in close proximity, we haven’t been able to make it happen yet. But we’re always exploring new possibilities!

Are there any new additions to the property, or future plans that would elevate celebratory events?

We’re excited about the possibility of creating direct access from the outdoor Ballroom Terrace to the promenade by the river. This would link our venues seamlessly, allowing us to host even larger and more spectacular weddings. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to enhance our offerings!

Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River is only minutes from Sathorn Pier, the Saphan Taksin BTS station, Sirat Expressway, and just a 40-minute drive from Suvarnabhumi International Airport.

300/1 Charoen Krung Road, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120 Thailand

Tel: 02 032 0888