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As engaged couples compile their guest lists, many might realize their friends and family are spread out across the country, if not the world. Technology has made it easier than ever before to stay connected to faraway loved ones, and engaged couples no doubt have a handful of guests on their lists who will need lodging when the wedding weekend arrives.

Many hotels cater to wedding guests, so finding a hotel should not be too difficult. However, finding the right hotel requires couples to consider a host of factors.

• Location: Location is arguably the most important consideration when choosing a wedding hotel. Hotels that are close to transportation hubs such as airports or train stations will be a welcome relief to guests who traveled far and wide to make it to your wedding. But hotels located in close proximity to your ceremony and reception sites will also be appreciated, especially come the end of the reception when guests who danced the night away will want to return to the hotel as quickly as possible. If the wedding reception is far from the nearest airport or train station, try to find a hotel close to the reception site so guests don't feel like they have been traveling all weekend long.
• Attractions: Attractions are another important factor to consider when choosing a hotel for your wedding guests. Brides- and grooms-to-be will be busy throughout the weekend, but wedding guests who arrive in town on Friday for a Saturday ceremony will have lots of free time on their hands. Unless your wedding weekend is intended to be a weekend retreat for you and your guests, try to find a hotel in a lively neighborhood with plenty of nearby attractions so guests have something to do in the days and hours before the wedding.
• Cost: Many hotels offer discounted rates to wedding guests, so couples should expect to do some negotiating before making a final decision regarding their wedding hotels. Travel is expensive, so if your list includes a lot of out-of-town guests, try to find the most affordable rate without settling for unsightly accommodations. Guests will appreciate the cost savings, and some might be more inclined to attend the wedding if the lodging is a bargain.
• Transportation: Another thing to consider when arranging lodging for out-of-town guests is transportation to and from the wedding. Many hotels offer shuttle service for wedding guests, which can save guests the added expense of renting cars to get around on the day of the wedding. Couples may need to foot the bill for hotel shuttle service, though some hotels include the service if enough guests book under a certain wedding party. Some hotels even offer airport shuttle service, which can save guests even more money.

Couples hosting many out-of-town guests for their weddings should do their best to find a hotel that's affordable, accommodating and close to their wedding venues.