Originally Posted by ParisMoskau

Going through a hotel is imho unnecessary and overly complicated. Just get an invitation letter for a few bucks through one of the reputable agencies, such as http://waytorussia.net/Travel/VisaSupport.html - this is much more straightforward, and the page linked has excellent step-by-step instructions. I have done it many times myself. I can't think of any upside in getting an invitation through a hotel.