Should guest pay hotel room block upfront or during check out?

Is it chain specific? When I book hotels it's always a mix if I'm being charged before or after.

I agree with Alyssa, it totally depends on the hotel. If guests are being asked to pay in advance, what is the hotel's refund policy? Will guests get refunded if they need to cancel after they've already paid for their hotel room?

I think it varies by chain. Our hotels require a one night deposit that is fully refundable until, I think, a week before the wedding. I would definitely check with the hotel about their cancellation policy so guests know what to expect before booking.

It all depends on the hotel and their policy. Check with the hotel about their policy. The other thing you can do is get a list in the area of your venue (maybe a mile or two from your venue) and put it with your invitations that way your guests can find the hotel that is best for them financially.

It depends on when the hotel charges guests. We have never been to hotels/motels that charge at checkout.