Alexis & Noah

September 7, 2024 • Des Moines, IA

Alexis & Noah

September 7, 2024 • Des Moines, IA

Q + A

Where are the ceremony and reception taking place?

Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, IA. Ceremony in the Large Pavillion (outdoors), Cocktail Hour at the Sea Lion Deck (outdoors), Reception at the Holmes Foster Events Center (indoors),

What time should I arrive? Do I have to pay admissions?

Our ceremony is at 5:30pm because the zoo will close to the public at 5pm. There is no need to pay admission after 5pm if you are attending a private event. If you would like to see the zoo before our ceremony starts, they have admissions for $9, which is 50% off of the usual admissions.

Can I explore the zoo?

Yes! The animals in outdoor exhibits go inside 30 minutes before sunset. Indoor exhibits close at 8pm.

Is walking required?

Yes, but the guest coordinator at the zoo will be available with a golf cart for those who have difficulty walking.

What is the dress code?

Semi-formal. We ask that you dress according to the weather and refrain from wearing white.

Is there parking on-site?

Yes, the zoo has a parking lot as well as an overflow gravel lot.

Will there be an open bar?

There will not be an open bar, but there will be a cash bar. The bar will be open for non-alcoholic drinks! If you plan on drinking, please consider utilizing Uber or carpooling with an individual who will be sober at the end of the night. Noah and I would like all of our guests to arrive and leave in a safe manner.

Is smoking allowed?

For the health and safety of the animals, the zoo does not allow smoking anywhere on property. The zoo is privately owned and prohibits smoking, vaping, chewing, or any consumption of tobacco products and all illegal drugs on zoo grounds as determined by state law. If you need to use these products, the event coordinator will assist you.

Are kids invited?

As long as they are on the RSVP, absolutely! Please be sure to keep a close eye on them throughout the evening. If we forgot to add one of your children to your RSVP, please reach out to the bride!

Where to Stay?

There are many great places to stay in the Des Moines area. Is there a big group, or are some of your relatives coming? Try an AirBNB! If you need any assistance finding a place, please contact the bride and/or groom.

Can I bring a guest?

Due to limited space, we are only able to accommodate guests formally invited on your wedding invitation. If you receive a plus one, there will be a place to share who your plus one will be when you RSVP. If you don't, please respect our wishes as we're trying to keep our wedding as intimate as possible. Thank you for understanding!

What if I don't RSVP in time?

Unfortunately, we will not be able to accommodate you if you RSVP late. We need to provide our vendors and venue with exact numbers by a certain date. Please RSVP as soon as possible! The last date to RSVP by is August 7th, 2024!

Please be aware that the following are not allow on zoo grounds or in the parking area:

Balloons, glass bottles, confetti, glitter, fireworks, bubbles, rice, sprinkles, silly string, straws, pets, drones, certain plants/flowers that may harm the animals.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to bride or groom! He'll probably just ask the bride though ;)