Valkosaaren telakka

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Welcome Lunch

September 05, 2024 1:00 PM–3:00 PM   Kiila Food & Bar 21 Aleksanterinkatu, Helsinki, Uusimaa, 00100, Finland   Please note each guest will be responsible for their own expenses! When you arrive, order your meal at the front desk, and make your way upstairs. The brides will be sitting upstairs, to the right, towards the back. Behind a black mesh screen.

Celebratory Night Out

September 06, 2024 8:00 PM   St. George Hotel Bar Yrjönkatu 13 C, 00120 Helsinki, Finland

Our Wedding

Once upon a time, in the not-so-magical land of online dating, two very different women found themselves swiping right into each other's hearts.

Liisa, an adventurous soul, grew up in a small town in Finland. Her thirst for adventure led her to cross oceans. She became an Au Pair in the United States. After exploring not only another country, but herself, she found herself in the world of online dating.

Peggy, a homebody, who grew up in New Jersey, just miles away from the hustle and bustle of NYC, was navigating her adult life and career. She also found herself in the world of online dating.

The two came across each other’s profile, and both immediately were drawn to each other. After what felt like natural banter between the two for a few weeks, they realized they had something very special. Liisa made the cautious decision to invite Peggy to her house in Connecticut. Snapchat confirmed each other’s legitimacy but of course, Peggy was still hesitant. This blonde, beautiful, Finnish woman could very well be a 50 year old man. But, after careful consideration, Peggy decided to make the 1 hour drive, navigating the treacherous obstacles of NJ/NY/CT drivers (especially the CT drivers…).

From that magical date on, they spent every single weekend together for an entire year (well, with the exception of two weekends which were the WORST weekends ever). Peggy and Liisa, two women who came from completely different worlds, could not have been a better match for each other. They continue to build an amazing life together, filled with happiness, respect, love, patience, and A LOT of laughter.

Our Story

Where

Valkosaaren TelakkaEhrenströmintie 13,00140 Helsinki, Finland

How to Get There

By Ferry:Location: Ehrenströmintie 13, Helsinki, FinlandLength: 5 Minute Ride - One WayFrequency: Runs every 20 MinutesPrice: Free

Ferry Terminal:You will be boarding the ferry at Terminal A, see image below. We will put a sign to help direct you where to board the ferry!

Wedding Day Itinerary

(EN)Ceremony ----------- 3:30Cocktail Hour ------ 4:30Dinner -------------- 6:00Coffee/Cake Cut ---- 8:00Dance --------------- 9:00End ---------------- 11:00 (FI)Seremonia -------------- 15:30Cocktail Hour ----------- 16:30Illallinen ---------------- 18.00Kahvi/kakun leikkaus --- 20.00Bailut ------------------- 21.00Pilkku ------------------- 23:00

Wedding Day Details

Tervetuloa Suomeen!! 

(WELCOME TO FINLAND!!)

Hotels

(Only 30 rooms available - Mystique Deluxe and Northern Comfort rooms.)

Lapland Hotels Bulevardi

We do not have a code for this hotel but it is so affordable, there is no need for one!

Omena Hotel

!!A THIRD HOTEL WITH A DISCOUNT CODE COMING SOON!! Additionally, Finland does have Airbnb and other rental sites!

Flying Tips

DON'T FORGET TO RENEW YOUR PASSPORT IF IT IS EXPIRING 6 MONTHS BEFORE DATE OF TRAVEL OR LESS!!!

Pricing:Flying to Finland is cheaper than most of Europe. You can find direct flights between $600 to $900 round trip. Those only go out of JFK. We have found flights with layovers as cheap as $380 round trip. Watch out for SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) specials! You can leave JFK or Newark with those. Typically, buying flights 4-6 months before the flight is the cheapest time to buy! Jet Lag:The time difference between New York and Finland is 7 hours. We suggest you take the red eye going to Finland. You will leave later at night (roughly 9-11pm), and can attempt to sleep on the plane. You will get there sometime in the American morning but it will be the afternoon in Finland. That makes it perfect for you to go straight to your hotel and check in and PASS OUT. But it is best to try to stay up the whole first day until Finnish nighttime. Flying Hacks:Want cheaper upgrades such as business class - a seat that turns into a bed? You will still need to shell out some more money BUT if you upgrade AT THE GATE, it can be significantly cheaper. We have saved up to $1000 doing this. Just ask if there are any economy premium or business (first) class seats open that you can upgrade to when you are at the gate before boarding begins.

Transit Options

Trams:Helsinki has a vast network of frequent and easy-to-navigate trams. You can easily navigate and pay on their website or phone app! You can take the trains straight from the airport to Helsinki downtown. Links are below. <a href="https://www.hsl.fi/en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website/Verkkosivusto</a><a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hsl/id1340229182" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">iPhone App</a><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=fi.hsl.app&amp;hl=en_US&amp;gl=US" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android/Google App</a>

Car Rental:A rental car is not necessary in Finland. Their public transportation is AMAZING. But if you desire, you can rent a car at the Helsinki Vantaa Airport. Finns drive on the right side of the road!<a href="https://www.expedia.com/Car-Rentals-In-Vantaa.d4998472.Car-Rental-Guide?semcid=US.MULTILOBC.GOOGLE.DL-DSA-c-EN.CAR&amp;semdtl=a117605557780.b1136974457886.g1dsa-1676309467900.e1c.m1Cj0KCQiA67CrBhC1ARIsACKAa8QvuqgQgjKMwS5hPXXmGBg1nLPi5cob0U7dOAIqoa4BRNwbJiLaafcaAm8IEALw_wcB.r1.c1.j19003637.k1.d1658919414838.h1.i1.l1.n1.o1.p1.q1.s1.t1.x1.f1.u1.v1.w1&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiA67CrBhC1ARIsACKAa8QvuqgQgjKMwS5hPXXmGBg1nLPi5cob0U7dOAIqoa4BRNwbJiLaafcaAm8IEALw_wcB" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Expedia Car Rental</a> Airport to Helsinki (Train Station):The Helsinki Vantaa Airport is actually in the City of Vantaa. Vantaa is just a few miles from Helsinki and you can easily go back and forth via train. Just follow the signs to the VR train. You can get the train tickets on the same website or app as the Trams.<a href="https://www.vr.fi/en/train-tickets?ref=header#trip-search" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">VR Train Website: Tickets</a>

Money

Finland uses the Euro. There are plenty of money exchanges throughout the airport and city of Helsinki. But, you CAN use debit and credit cards even if they contain/are in US dollars. For credit cards, there is no fee. BUT for debit cards, you may get small fees per purchase. Just keep in mind there is an exchange rate between the USD and EURO so keep an eye on that rate. It changes every business day.

Facts About Finland

1. Finland has the highest consumption of coffee per capita in the world. (Buy some amazing Presidentti or Juhla Mokka coffee while you are here!)2. There are more saunas in Finland than there are cars. (And it is pronounced sow-na, Americans!)3. Finland has 188,00 lakes. (We hope you like fish!)4. There is a lake in Finland that is the same shape as the country itself called Neitokainen!5. Santa is actually from Finland! The north pole is not in the arctic but in Rovaniemi, Finland. (You can go visit him while you are here! Also don't google Original Finnish Santa unless you want nightmares.)6. 1/3 of Finland is in the Arctic circle. In the summer there, the sun does not go down. (Imagine the winter!)7. Finns might be a little shy at first but most Finns speak English. Don't be afraid to ask for directions (or make a new friend).8. Sauna is a Finnish word! (Again, Americans, its SOW-NA!)

(EN) Learn Some Finnish

(FI) Opi Englantia

(EN) Hello! How are you?(FI) Hei! Mitä Kuuluu? (EN) Good, and you?(FI) Hyvää, entäs sinulle? (EN) Nice to meet you!(FI) Hauska tavata! (EN) Thank you.(FI) Kiitos. (EN) No thank you.(FI) Ei Kiitos. (EN) Yes/Yeah(FI) Joo/kyllä (EN) No.(FI) Ei. (EN) Sorry/Excuse me.(FI) Anteeksi. (EN) Congratulations!(FI) Onnittelut! (EN) Cheers!(FI) Kippis! (EN) Do you speak english/finnish?(FI) Puhutko englantia/suomea? (EN) Sorry, I don't speak Finnish/English,(FI) Anteeksi, en puhu suomea/englantia. (EN) Where is the bathroom?(FI) Missä on vessa? (EN) Can I have water, please?(FI) Saisinko vettä kiitos? (EN) Coffee(FI) Kahvia(NJ) Kauwfi (EN) Liisa and Peggy are a perfect couple! ;)(FI) Liisa ja Peggy ovat täydellinen pari!

Travel/Stay

There is an endless list of things to do in Finland but we have pulled together our favorites. Browse through, plan your trip, and if you have any questions, please reach out to the brides! We are happy to help make your travels something you will never forget.

~~~~~~~Entertainment~~~~~~~

There are more Saunas in Finland then there are cars! Experience the Finnish lifestyle by checking out Allas Sea Pool. Open year-round, this urban spa includes saunas, fresh/seawater pools, wellness facilities, restaurant &amp; bar right on the Baltic Sea.15 min walk from city center

Allas Sea Pool

Another unique sauna/spa right in Helsinki! It offers saunas, and a restaurant and bar on the Baltic Sea. If you want to try a traditional Finnish dish, try their salmon soup! Reservations are required.21 min train ride from city center

Löyly Helsinki

SkyWheel Helsinki is a 40-meter tall Ferris wheel in central Helsinki, Finland. One of its gondola cabins, the SkySauna, is the world's first sauna on a Ferris wheel.12 min walk from city center

SkyWheel Helsinki

On the shoreline across from our wedding venue and in the hub of Helsinki sits a bustling marketplace. Find many of Finland's delicious delicacies as well as hand crafts. A perfect spot for morning coffee and a cinnamon bun (just like a true Finn)!8 min walk from city center

Market Square

Helsinki's Central Park/5th Ave! I just made that up. This is an adorable park surrounded by lots of luxury shopping, food and cafés! Feel the high life in Finland!2 min walk from city center

Esplanadi

Another Finnish market place hides in the beautiful, old 19th century hall. Find more delicacies and crafts just a few paces away from the Market Place.9 min walk from city center

Vanha kauppahalli

This street hosts some of the most popular Finnish fashion and food. Stroll down this street indulging yourself in your shopping addiction (or just enjoy the architecture).0 min walk from city center

Aleksanterinkatu

Essentially a Finnish Macy's. Find all of the hottest Finnish brands right in the center.0 min walk from city center

Stockmann - Helsinki

The shopping experiences we provided so far not enough? GOOD! Go get lost in Kamppi, a huge mall with every store you could imagine. Follow the tunnels for more!!!! (Some of our favorites: Marrimekko, BikBok, Lindex, Pentik, Iittala)16 min walk from city center

Kamppi Helsinki

A beautiful island with a historical sea fortress, it is a World Heritage. Take a 15 minute ferry ride to eat at some restaurants, learn about Finland's history and enjoy the views. 10 min walk from city center to ferry.

Suomenlinna

Looking for something that is an excuse for the kids but really for you? Helsinki has an amusement park with the OLDEST wooden, man-operated roller coaster. Are you brave enough to get on?22 min train ride from city center

Linnanmäki

Need some nature? This time of year, you may not get lucky enough to see snow, but what about Reindeer? And Santa?Yes! Head north to one of the most beautiful, nature filled landscapes in the world. We suggest Rovaniemi, Finland, Santas hometown. You can take a 10 hour train ride up. Book a red eye ride and a bed and youll be up there in no time for around €70 round trip. The sooner you buy, the cheaper the tickets!11 hour train ride from city center

Lapland

Visit Tallinn, Estonia in ONE DAY via a 2 hour, affordable ferry ride. The ferry has bars, restaurants, duty-free shopping, music and more! Tallinn is a breath taking city just on the other side of the Baltic Sea. Explore cobbled streets lined with a mix of Gothic, Baroque, and contemporary structures, with buildings as old as 1322. If you like history, beautiful architecture, good food and new experiences, this is a great one day trip!14 min train ride from city center

Ferry to Tallinn Estonia

Want to see more of the Scandinavian countries? There is another affordable, nautical expedition. Take a 3-day cruise to Sweden's capital! The cruise leaves a terminal right across the port from our venue!10 min train ride from city center

3 Day Cruise to Stockholm Sweden

~~~~~~~~Food/Drinks~~~~~~~~

One of our favorite bars! Enjoy a beverage and the highest view of Helsinki.8 min walk from city center

Ateljee Bar/Torni Bar

Looking for some nightlife? Visit Peggy's favorite club! This nightclub offers a unique experience as it is set in an old tiered theater! More floors for you to party on! (Helsinki has many more so get ready to watch the sun rise.)7 min walk from city center

Apollo Club

Make your own makkara (sausage) over a fire and sip coffee!24 min train ride from city center

Cafe Regatta

Great, easy bar food. GO HERE IF YOU LIKE WINGS!!!17 min train ride from city center

Ravintola Hook, Helsinki

Great Asian/Vietnamese food. GET THE SHANGHAI TACOS!12 min train ride from city center

Restaurant Lie Mi Bulevardi

Looking for good sushi? Don't look further. Liisa's favorite sushi is right here!6 min walk from city center

Sushibar+Wine Uudenmaankatu

Have a sweet tooth? Try Finland's most popular chocolate brand's café. Great coffee and sweets!1 min walk from city center

Fazer Café Kluuvikatu

Another great coffee spot! They're sandwiches and desserts are amazing too!6 min walk from city center

Espresso House Citycenter

Peggy's favorite sandwiches! Who thought mayonnaise and BBQ would taste so good together?8 min walk from city center

Picnic Forum Kukontori

~~~~~~~~~~~~Music~~~~~~~~~~~~

We LOVE Finnish music/artists! Below are some scheduled concerts around the time of our wedding. Concerts in Finland, even with top artists, are extremely affordable (you won't need to sell your kidney for these) and offer a great experience for the days that are not our wedding day. We will continue to add more as they are scheduled so keep an eye out!

HALOO HELSINKI! is a Finnish pop rock band. They are absolutely amazing and put up an amazing show! Tickets from €50.50

HALOO HELSINKI!

I know Americans, its a funny name. But this is one of Liisa and Peggy's favorite rappers! You might even see them there! Tickets from €33.00

Sexmane

Karri Koira is a Finnish rapper/R&amp;B singer. His music is very fun and upbeat! You will probably see Liisa and Peggy there! Tickets from €35.50

Karri Koira

Things to Do

Registry

Peggy's Party:

Alexa, also known as Peggy's heterosexual life partner, has been in Peggy's life since kindergarten. They have shared 22+ years of laughs, tears and unconditional love. 

Alexa

Sofia and Peggy have been best friends every since the maid of honor (Alexa) accidentally punched Sofia in the face in the middle school cafeteria. 

Sofia

Ellie is Peggy's youngest and tallest sister. Together, they enjoy going upstate, picking locks and bonding over memes.

Ellie

Shivaughn is Peggy's second oldest and second shortest sister. Her bubbly, sweet personality makes Peggy look like a menace!

Shivaughn

Natalie is Peggy's oldest and shortest sister. Yes, the as the age goes up with the Doyle sisters, the height goes down. Natalie is a brilliant and talented human being and mother.

Natalie

Nina is Peggy's first cousin and metaphorically fifth sister. Nina is married to Santa which is weird cause, doesn't he live in Finland? We have some questions. 

Nina

Corinne and Peggy have been friends since the early days of high school. Although Corinne has put Peggy's life in danger more than once, she remains a very important person in Peggy's life. 

Corinne

Rob and Peggy met when they worked together at a ski mountain (more like hill). Instantly, they became besties even though Peggy is able to get a take down or two on Rob. 

Last, BUT MOST CERTAINLY NOT LEAST, Nate. Peggy and Nate met through mutual friends but their best friendship really exploded when they started rock climbing together. They both enjoy crimp scampy. Don't ask.

Nate

Liisa's Party:

Wedding Party

Any questions you don't find below? Email Peggy at p.f.doyle96@gmail.com!

Liisa & Peggy

Liisa & Peggy

Registry