Our Wedding Q&A

We're so excited to celebrate with you! Here's some information to help you plan. If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us directly.

Attire & Venue Details

Q: What is the dress code?

A: We'd love for you to get dressed up with us! The attire is semi-formal or cocktail attire. Think suits, cocktail dresses, or elegant jumpsuits/separates. No tuxedos or gowns are necessary.

Q: Will the wedding be indoors or outdoors?

A: Our ceremony and reception will all take place outdoors at President Lincoln's Cottage, weather permitting. Indoor space will

Q: What will the weather be like in Washington D.C. in October?

A: October in D.C. is generally beautiful and mild! You can typically expect daytime highs around the mid-to-upper 60s Fahrenheit (around 18-21°C) and cooler evenings with lows in the low 50s Fahrenheit (around 10-12°C). It can sometimes be a bit breezy, and while we're hoping for sunshine, there's always a chance of rain. We recommend checking the forecast closer to the date and perhaps bringing a light jacket or wrap for the evening. As all events are outdoors, please dress comfortably for the expected temperature.

Q: Is everything happening at one location?

A: Yes! To make things easy for everyone, our ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception will all be held at the beautiful President Lincoln's Cottage, located at 140 Rock Creek Church Rd NW, Washington, DC 20011.

RSVPs & Our Guests

Q: When should I RSVP by?

A: Please RSVP by Friday, September 5th, 2025, via the "RSVP" section of our website.

Q: Can I bring a date or plus one?

A: Due to venue capacity, we're only able to accommodate those guests formally named on your wedding invitation. If you received a plus one, it will be indicated on your invitation and when you RSVP. Thank you for your understanding!

Q: Are children welcome?

A: We adore all of your little ones and are looking forward to bringing families together. While the Welcome Party will be inclusive of all ages, the Ceremony and Reception will primarily be an adult crowd with a few exceptions. As we would like attendees to be fully present in celebrating this event, please be mindful if you think your teenager may be distracted by their phone most of the evening or if you might enjoy the event less by also having to attend to parenting duties.

Q: What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?

A: Please let us know about any dietary restrictions or allergies when you RSVP. There will be a section for you to include this information so we can pass it along to our caterer.

Travel & Accommodation

Q: Will there be hotel blocks?

A: Yes, we have reserved blocks of rooms at special rates at a few hotels for our out-of-town guests. Please visit the "Travel & Accommodations" page on our website for details on hotels, booking links/codes, and reservation deadlines. We recommend booking early!

Q: Will transportation be provided?

A: Yes, shuttle transportation will be provided for guests staying within our hotel blocks to and from President Lincoln's Cottage. Please check the "Travel & Accommodations" page closer to the wedding date for shuttle schedules and pickup locations.

Q: What's the best way to get to Washington D.C. and President Lincoln's Cottage?

A: For those flying in, the closest airports are Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Dulles International Airport (IAD), and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). From there, ride-sharing services, taxis, and public transportation are available. President Lincoln's Cottage is located at 140 Rock Creek Church Rd NW, Washington, DC 20011. If you're driving, it is easily accessible, and you can find more detailed directions on our "Travel & Accommodations" page.

Q: Is there parking available at President Lincoln's Cottage?

A: Yes, there is complimentary parking available on-site at President Lincoln's Cottage. Staff will direct you upon arrival.

Q: What are some fun things to do in the D.C. area?

A: We love D.C.! If you have some extra time, we recommend visiting the Smithsonian Museums (they're free!), strolling the National Mall, exploring the historic Georgetown neighborhood, or [mention a couple of your personal favorite local spots/restaurants]. President Lincoln's Cottage itself offers historic tours if you're interested in arriving early or visiting on another day! Check out our "Things to Do" page for more suggestions! (Optional: create this page)

Gifts

Q: What about gifts?

A: Your presence at our wedding to celebrate with us is truly the only gift we need, and we are so grateful for the effort you're making to be there! We've been fortunate to live together for a while now and have happily filled our cozy home with most of the things we need. As we embark on this new chapter and continue to build our lives together, we've set up a "General Future Fund." If you feel inclined to give a gift, contributions to this fund would be incredibly meaningful and help us with future adventures, projects, or simply building our nest egg as a married couple. Above all, please know that your love and support are what we cherish most. You'll be able to find details on how to contribute, should you wish, on the "Registry" page of our website.

The Big Day & Afterwards

Q: What time should I arrive for the ceremony?

A: We recommend arriving by 4 PM to allow time to park (if driving), find a seat, and mingle before the ceremony begins at President Lincoln's Cottage.

Q: Can I take pictures and videos during the ceremony?A: We are having an "unplugged" ceremony. This means we kindly ask that all phones and cameras be put away and silenced during the ceremony. We've hired an amazing photographer and videographer to capture this special moment for us, and we promise to share the photos with you! Afterwards, feel free to take as many pictures as you like during the cocktail hour and reception.

Q: Can I post wedding photos on social media?

A: Yes, please do! We'd love for you to share your photos from the cocktail hour and reception. If you do, please use our wedding hashtag: #TheJonathansathon

Q: Will there be an open bar?

A: Yes, we will be hosting an open bar with a selection of beer, wine, and spirits.

Q: What kind of food will be served?

A: TBD

Q: What time will the reception end?

A: The reception will conclude at 11PM