1. What does 1950's semi-formal attire look like?
For those who prefer suits, think Frank Sinatra, or really any of the Rat Pack. Kayla strongly encourages fun bow ties, because they are way better than straight ties (though Michael disagrees). Jackets may not be necessary given the weather (see question 5).
For those who prefer dresses, think Elizabeth Taylor, or Audrey Hepburn.
For you dress-wearing friends, Kayla recommends ModCloth.
2. Do I have to wear 1950's semi-formal attire?!
If you don't want to, please do not feel obligated! That's the theme of the wedding, and we'd love to have you join in.
If you're uncomfortable in this kind of clothing, or really don't feel like making an investment into something you don't think you'd wear ever again, please just come in semi-formal attire. Keep in mind, it will be August, so be sure to dress appropriately enough to keep yourself cool.
Please, no jeans (unless they are black, clean, and free of rips and tears).
3. What colors can I wear?
Pretty much any color besides white, or dark purple.
4. What will the weather be like?
It's early August in MA, so the day might be hot (think probably the 80s). It'll definitely be humid, but the venue is right by water so it won't be as humid as it might be inland. As the reception runs until 10, it will probably start to cool down by dinner.
The ceremony will be outdoors provided there is good weather. Otherwise, it will be on the venue's covered deck if there is rain. We recommend sunscreen, and possibly bug spray as there is a marsh-type-area close to the venue.
We'd really just recommend being prepared for everything because it's New England. Keep an eye on The Weather Channel, too.
5. I never got a Save the Date...
Due to the venue size, we're capped at a certain number of people we can invite. Which is really unfortunate, because there are SO many people we'd like to see there. So unless we specifically reach out to you, please don't ask us to invite you because our hands are totally tied. :(
6. Are my children invited?
Similar to the above answer, this is a really tough decision we had to make. We really love all of our younger family and friends, but unless we mentioned them by name, unfortunately we can't make the space for them at this time.
7. Can I bring a plus one?
Unless this is indicated as such on your invitation, we will not be able to accommodate plus-ones. The venue size means we're very limited on just how many we can invite. We're sorry! :(
8. How do I RSVP?
You should have received an RSVP card along with your invitation. This should also have come with a pre-stamped envelope! Please fill out your RSVP card completely, put it in the stamped envelope, put your return address on the envelope, and send it via snail-mail!
9. Do I have to RSVP?
Yes! If you don't RSVP, we won't know if you're coming and therefore won't have a seat or food for you.
10. What if something has come up after I've RSVP'ed?
Please email us at mikeandkayla8517@gmail.com as soon as you find out changes need to be made to your RSVP.
11. Where should I stay?
If you're coming from pretty far out of town or would prefer to stay overnight, you can hover over the "Details" page above and click on "Accommodations." The venue is a Bed and Breakfast, so there's space on-site for you to stay.
12. Where can I park?
The venue has parking! When you arrive, you'll turn and go right down a hill - that's where the parking is. If you're staying overnight in one of the "side motel" areas, you'll have parking as well.
13. When should I get there?
Between 2 and 2:30 p.m. is the time we'd like you to arrive. Thanks!
14. What if I get lost trying to get there?
Google Maps is going to be your best friend - it's a wonderful, wonderful thing. If you don't have access to Google Maps, you can give the father of the bride, Shane Lemay, a call at 813-399-0737.
15. When do we eat?
Cocktail hour will be directly following the ceremony, and dinner will start around 6 p.m.
16. What if I have a dietary restriction or need other accommodations/assistance?
Please indicate this when you RSVP.
17. How about alcohol?
There will be some alcohol that will be available free of charge. Otherwise, it is a cash (or card) bar, so plan accordingly!
18. Can I take pictures?
During the ceremony, we ask that everyone PLEASE refrain from taking pictures. We've paid for a fantastic photographer who has been in the business for almost 15 years, and this is especially the time we want our photographer to have the best situations possible for photography.
After the ceremony, you will be able to take as many pictures as you like! We totally recommend using Instagram: #PerfectlyPennelli. There will also be signs with the hashtag in case you forget what it is. If you use Snapchat, we intend to have a Snapchat frame as well!
19. Can I make a toast?
Unfortunately time is limited, and we've already made decisions on who is making toasts. Thank you so much for asking - we're really honored! We really just want to make sure everyone has time for dancing!
20. Did you just say there's going to be dancing?
Of course there is!.... well, it'll be as close to dancing as we can get. We're both self-admittedly terrible dancers. Guests might be better at it.
21. Can I smoke? How about my vape? And you know, marijuana is legal in Massachusetts now...
Smoking/vaping is allowed in designated areas only. When you arrive, please ask a member of the Castle Manor Inn staff where those areas are. There is no smoking or vaping allowed inside of the B&B or on the deck.
As for marijuana usage - that is entirely dependent on the venue. While there's nothing wrong with enjoying it, we ask that you refrain from doing so unless you're given the OK by CMI staff.
22. Is there a rehearsal dinner? What about the day after the wedding?
These events are limited to out-of-town guests and guests staying overnight at the venue. Please email mikeandkayla8517@gmail.com for more information!