FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
You probably have questions about our not-so-traditional wedding celebration. We’ve done our best to answer everything you might be curious about right here!
A WEDDING WEEK? ARE YOU SERIOUS?
We’re serious! Because our families are so spread out, we realized it would be a destination wedding no matter where we chose. So we decided to host an unforgettable vacation!
WHERE DO WE STAY DURING THIS FABULOUS AFFAIR?
There are tons of hotels in the region as it is the largest wine region in the world. However, we are most excited to provide heavily discounted rooms on the chateau grounds.
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO GET THERE?
The chateau is a 45min drive from the Bordeaux Airport and a 5hrs drive from the Paris Airport. Please see the travel page for more specific information about getting to the venue.
OKAY, BUT WHAT ARE WE WEARING?
The wedding itself will be a formal garden party, which we are calling “Whimsical Black-Tie.” Don’t worry about outshining the bride—we want everyone to feel and look their best!
WHAT ELSE SHOULD I PACK?
May tends to be sunny and with an average temperature of about 70F during the day. Rain is always possible in France even in Spring and Summer, so dress accordingly!
You will need an outlet adapter for all your electronics as their plugs are different. Europe runs at 220V. While most of your electronics will convert from 110-220V, any electronics that are limited to 110V only will permanently break. Don’t lose a hairdryer like Cyd did.
WILL I NEED TO CARRY CASH? HOW DO I GET EURO?
While most places will happily take your credit card, it’s always a good idea to bring cash when traveling.
The best place to get Euro is at home through your local bank, a few weeks before you travel, as that will get you the best exchange rate. However, in a pinch, you can get cash at airports, train stations, and major ATMs. Just know that this second option will incur higher exchange rates and, in some cases, extra fees.
I HAVE A CONFESSION—I DID NOT PAY ATTENTION IN FRENCH CLASS.
No problem! Our wedding planner and most staff will be English-speaking. Having said that, many in people France do not speak English so it’s a good idea to learn a few key phrases. We recommend the Google Translate app as well (pro-tip you can download French for offline use).
CAN I BRING MY KIDS? WILL THERE BE A BABYSITTER?
Absolutely! While not addressed in each invitation, families will have the option in the RSVP form to let us know if they want to bring small children.
If there ends up being a large group of kids coming, we plan to look into babysitting options.
I’M A GLUTEN-FREE, KETO, PALEO, CARNIVORE, VEGAN, PESCETARIAN. WILL THERE BE ANYTHING FOR ME TO EAT?
In the RSVP form you will have an opportunity to let us know about any dietary restrictions you may have and we will do our absolute best to accommodate your needs for all provided meals.
LISTEN WHAT WE REALLY WANT TO KNOW IS—WILL THERE BE AN OPEN BAR?
Bordeaux is the wine country, of course there will be wine! We will be providing guests with a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options throughout their stay.
WHAT LOCAL STUFF SHOULD I CHECK OUT?
You’re going to be in the heart of wine country so if vineyards and wineries are your thing, you’ll be in heaven! You're also a short train ride away from the entire country of France (or even adjoining countries like Spain, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and even the UK!) We have some ideas for you to get started with on the travel page.
WAIT…DO PEOPLE TIP IN FRANCE?
Tips are not expected in French restaurants, taxis, or hotels because you already pay a service charge. Having said that, it’s always polite to tip if you want to—rounding up to the nearest euro or two (forget about the American 20%). Note there isn’t an option to leave a tip on French credit card slips so it’s best to do so with coins and cash.
CAN I POST PHOTOS OF THE WEDDING ON SOCIAL MEDIA?
Absolutely! (Are hashtags passé? We don’t care! We’d love to see what you post by hashtagging #chateaudevoe)
Note, we do ask that you please put your phone away during the wedding ceremony itself.
OKAY BUT YOU REALLY DON’T WANT GIFTS?
You’ve already been generous enough by choosing to join us in France! We have a registry page for those of you who really, really want to give us something but please do not feel obligated! We promise that we love you either way.
I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS! WHAT DO I DO?
You can email questions to chateaudevoe@gmail.com or reach out directly to the maid-of-honor, Dana Sinclair.