Are children welcome to Mass and the Reception?
Yes!
"How can there be too many children? That is like saying there are too many flowers." - Saint Mother Teresa
What is the dress code?
For the wedding mass, we kindly ask that guests wear semi-formal attire. As the Basilica is a sacred space, modesty is important, and we ask that shoulders be covered (so please avoid strapless or thin-strap tops). This is a custom that we, as a couple, strongly support and would appreciate everyone respecting.
For the reception, feel free to dress in semi-formal attire and be sure to bring your dancing shoes! Think classy, timeless, winter wonderland!
If Mikaela were attending a wedding like this, she’d likely choose a midi or maxi dress with trendy, flowy sleeves and a pair of heels. Todd would opt for black dress pants, a suit jacket, and a tie. And of course, we’d both be ready to change into our dancing shoes once the DJ starts!
We’re so excited to celebrate with you and can’t wait to see everyone dressed in their Sunday Best!
Why are you getting married on a Friday in the winter in Wisconsin?
Mikaela is so grateful to continue her family's tradition of getting married in the winter. Her parents, maternal grandparents, maternal great-grandparents, and several cousins were married in the winter.
In addition, December 12 is the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Todd proposed to Mikaela in front of her statue. Read her story under the "Our Lady of Guadalupe" tab.
I am not Catholic. Should I still come to the ceremony?
We want nothing more than everyone they love to attend their wedding ceremony. It's actually the most important part of our day!
Don't worry—there will be programs to follow along. If you have questions regarding the Catholic faith, please feel free to reach out to us before their wedding day!
How long of a drive is it from the Basilica to the Barn?
35 minutes. We wanted to share with you the city and the country of Wisconsin! Best of both worlds.
There is roughly a 2 hour 30 minutes gap between the end of the ceremony and the beginning of the reception (1:30-4:00). Use this time to check into your hotel, check out Lake Michigan, enjoy Wisconsin beer, cheese, and custard, and arrive safely to the reception. We created a list of their favorite Milwaukee spots in the "Things To Do" tab.
Do we expect you to attend the wedding day?
We are truly grateful for each and every one of you, and while we would be thrilled to have you celebrate with us, please know that we understand if you can’t make it. Your presence would be such a blessing, but your love, support, and prayers from afar are just as meaningful to us. If you’re able to join us, it will be a gift we’ll cherish forever. If you're not, we still love you and hope to see you soon! Thank you for being a part of our journey, no matter where you are!
Anything I should know if I am flying in?
We recommend flying into Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) for the shortest drive, but Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is a good alternative with more flight options, especially for guests coming from farther away.
Milwaukee Mitchell International (MKE) – about 35–40 minutes from the hotel blocks in Grafton.
Chicago O’Hare International (ORD) – about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours from the hotels in Grafton (depending on traffic). We do recommend having a car due to the distance between venues.
Is Parking Available?
Yes! There are easily accessible parking lots for the Basilica, Hotels, and Reception Venue. Handicap parking is also available at all three locations. Please remember to lock your car at all times. We aren't in Kansas or Nebraska or Iowa anymore.