WeddingDay Pro Spotlight: Raquel Brown of Aloft Indianapolis Downtown

As the Director of Sales and Marketing for Aloft Indianapolis Downtown, Raquel Brown brings warmth, expertise and a deep passion for hospitality to one of the city’s newest wedding destinations. Opened in February 2025, this vibrant Marriott property seamlessly blends historic charm with modern luxury inside a beautifully restored 1898 bank building—complete with a stunning original vault that now doubles as an unforgettable private event space. Aloft has quickly become a go-to spot for couples seeking a stylish, convenient and personality-filled home base for their wedding celebrations. From the lively WXYZ Bar to the inviting lobby and local offerings at REFUEL, Raquel and her team take pride in crafting experiences that make every couple—and their guests—feel celebrated, connected and completely at home.

Tell us a little about the history of Aloft Indianapolis Downtown.

"We are a new hotel that opened in February 2025. It’s a historic building that was built in 1898. The original tenant was Stockyard Banking Trust. Once of the key focal points in the lobby is the historic bank vault can be booked for private events and is accessible for the guests during wedding events."

Give us an overview of your hotel and its offerings.

"WXYZ Bar (open 7 days/week and open five until midnight) can be booked for cocktail receptions. REFUEL is our all-day market featuring local offerings from downtown Indianapolis. The space also serves breakfast daily with a la carte offerings for wedding guests so they don’t have to leave the hotel. We also have a state-of-the-art fitness center, guest laundry facilities and a boardroom onsite which is ideal for wedding parties if they require more space to get ready in."

Why should a couple choose the Aloft for their hotel block? What attracts customers to your hotel?

"Aloft is one of the closest hotels to Massachusetts Avenue (which is just a few blocks away) and is an ideal location for wedding blocks. We are a luxury select service hotel with Marriott. It’s the perfect gathering place for family and friends to gather before or after wedding festivities and enjoy a cocktail at the WXYZ bar or our Vault. Our vibrant lobby and colorful décor make the perfect picturesque spot to capture candid photos. It’s a great interactive place to gather, play pool and not have to worry about renting an event space for your guests."

What nearby activities make staying at Aloft Indianapolis memorable for wedding guests?

"We are walkable to many bars, restaurants and sites downtown and on Mass Ave. making it a convenient place for guests to meet. We are centrally located two blocks from Monument Circle which is an ideal spot for photographs."

Are there any benefits a couple receives when booking their hotel block with Aloft Indianapolis?

"We typically offer a courtesy block for our wedding guests, based on availability, so groups aren’t penalized if they fall short of their commitments. This gives brides and grooms one less thing to worry about leading into their big day. Marriott Brand offers many benefits including Bonvoy reward points and the confidence of having a clean room and friendly staff that meets Marriott standards."

Do you have any tips for helping couples prepare for their big day? Any other words of wisdom to share?

"Regardless whether or not you chose to stay with us, make sure to choose a brand that you know will exceed your expectations."

Tell us about your favorite part of your job? What makes it fun for you?

"I love the culture and team of Aloft Indianapolis. It feels like family and not like work. I love being a part of someone’s most special day and helping to craft a unique experience in that day."

What do you love about the industry you work in?

"Our team goes above and beyond to create a memorable experience for guests and team members so it makes it a lovely place to work."

What are the future goals for Aloft Indianapolis? How do you see it growing in the future?

"To be the premier wedding destination for any couple that wants to host a wedding room block with us."

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