FAQs

Question

Is the wedding kid-friendly?

Answer

The bride & groom only invited children of guests who they know and have a relationship with, and their names will have been written on the parents' invitations. Please keep in mind, there will be no babysitter provided for the ceremony & reception, but Pere Marquette is a family-friendly lodge and state park.

Question

Can I bring a Plus One?

Answer

We are at capacity with our guest list, and no exceptions can be made. If you are extended a Plus One, it is written on your invitation. Thanks for understanding!

Question

How far is Pere Marquette from Chicago?

Answer

For guests driving from Chicago, it will be about a 4.5 hour drive. For those flying in, it is a 40 min drive from the airport to Pere Marquette Lodge.

Question

Do you have a hotel room block?

Answer

Yes, you will need to call Pere Marquette Lodge to make your reservation. On the phone, you will then mention "Yang Shultz Wedding" for the room block.

Question

What's the difference between a lodge room and cabin?

Answer

At Pere Marquette, the lodge rooms are in the main building and are your typical bedroom accommodations. The cabins are right next to the lodge building. They have a queen/king bed + twin bunkbeds and a living area. Plus, you have access to the grass area outside of your cabin for outdoor activities. https://www.pmlodge.net/accommodations/

Question

Is there late check-in at Pere Marquette Lodge?

Answer

You can check in late, but they do recommend calling the front desk if you plan on checking in after 11pm.

Question

Is there a mini fridge in the lodge or cabins?

Answer

No, but you can request one at the front desk when booking your room!

Question

What is the dress code?

Answer

The dress code for the wedding is semi-formal/cocktail attire.

Question

What will the weather be like?

Answer

May weather in Grafton, IL is likely sunny with temperatures ranging from about 65 degrees during the evening and high 70s during the day. There is little humidity, so please plan your wardrobe accordingly.

Question

Will the ceremony and reception be indoors or outdoors?

Answer

Ceremony will be outdoors in shaded area, and the reception will be indoors. If weather changes, the ceremony will be moved indoors in the Great Hall by the fireplace.

Question

Can I request a song for the reception?

Answer

Yes! We will be having a live band playing during the reception, so please submit a song request with your RSVP.

Question

Will transportation be provided?

Answer

No, we strongly encourage you to book a room at the Pere Marquette Lodge since the ceremony and reception will both be there. Almost all of our guests will have their own vehicles, so we will not have a shuttle available.

Question

Where should guests park?

Answer

Pere Marquette has free parking. There are 2 parking lots: visitors and main parking. We suggest parking at the main parking lot because the visitors is a ~5min walk to the entrance.

Question

What happens after the cermony?

Answer

Immediately after the ceremony, we will go straight into cocktail hour inside the Lodge.

Question

When should I RSVP by?

Answer

Please RSVP by February 21st. There will be assigned seating for the reception, so if you don't plan on RSVPing please bring a sandwich and a chair.

Question

Are the ceremony and reception location wheelchair accessible?

Answer

Yes! The venue follows ADA guidelines and includes wheelchair accessibility.

Question

Are there any colors I should avoid wearing?

Answer

White, Ivory, and Mauve

Question

What type of food will be served?

Answer

The entree options are available on your RSVP card. We will have individually plated dinners seated down.

Question

Can I take pictures during the ceremony?

Answer

No, we will be having an unplugged ceremony. The photographer will be taking family pictures right before the ceremony, and there will be plenty of photo opportunities at cocktail hour and reception (we have a photobooth booked!).

Question

What's the bar situation?

Answer

We will provide an open, full bar (as well as multiple non-alcoholic options). We only ask that you please tip your bartender!

Question

Does the lodge have quiet hours or smoking policy?

Answer

No quiet hours are enforced, and smoking is fine outdoors (no designated smoking areas). Keep in mind, there is a spacious balcony for those who want to smoke and unwind at the reception.

Question

Is there a wedding after-party?

Answer

It's up to you and your crew! If so, we recommend booking a cabin for the night so you can hangout in the common areas or enjoy the outdoors together. Feel free to bring your own tables, cornhole, and lawn chairs as well.