FAQs
Question
What should I know?
Answer
Expect strong drinks and unpredictable weather! Iowa weather can swing between 20 and 70 degrees in early November, so bring layers. Most importantly, please do not drink and drive. Iowa authorities take this very seriously and frequently monitor bar exits.
Question
How do I RSVP?
Answer
Please RSVP through your digital invitation, which was sent via text from 888-959-0613. If you’re having trouble finding it, check your text spam folder or reach out to Andrew at 954-994-8303.
Question
How should I get around?
Answer
Downtown Des Moines is walkable and Uber/Lyft-friendly. If you’re flying in, the airport is a quick 5-mile trip downtown via rideshare or taxi. If you’re arriving after 11:30 PM on a weekday, consider using Uber Reserve (24+ hours in advance) or call Yellow Cab (515-282-8111) to ensure a ride is waiting.
Question
Where is the Venue?
Answer
The Tea Room is located on the sixth floor of the Wilkins Building at 713 Walnut Street (view the map at the top of the page). The main entrance to the building is on 8th Street, situated halfway between Walnut Street and Locust Street. Look for our wedding signage outside the 8th Street doors. Once you enter the building, head down the hall to the left to find the elevators. Take the elevator to the 6th Floor, which opens directly into the venue lobby.
Question
Where can I park?
Answer
We recommend the following options, all within a 3-minute walk. 9TH & LOCUST GARAGE: The vehicle entrance is on the south side of the garage on Locust St (with handicap-accessible entrances on all four corners). Go to the second floor to enter the Skywalk. Follow the signs to the Wilkins Building/Tea Room entrance. Once in Wilkins, take the elevator to the sixth floor. Rates are $1 per hour (up to $12 per day) and free on Sundays. 8TH & MULBERRY GARAGE: The vehicle entrance is on the northwest corner of the garage on Mulberry St. The pedestrian entrance is on the south side on Cherry St. The east half is private parking only. Rates are $1 per hour (up to $12 per day) and free on Sundays. STREET: Meters are free all day Sunday and after 9:00 PM on Saturday. SURETY: Valet is available for $40/day or self-park for $30. No matter where you park, please do not drink and drive. Iowa authorities are strict, and we want everyone to get home safely!
Question
Where should I stay?
Answer
Check out the Hotel tab! We have a room block at the Surety Hotel and listed several other nearby options based on our research of the best value and location.
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How do I find a hotel roommate?
Answer
We want as many of our favorite people there as possible! If you’re interested in splitting a room at the Surety (or another nearby hotel) but aren't sure who to ask, let us know. We’re happy to play "roommate matchmaker" and connect you with other guests looking to share a space.
Question
What should I wear?
Answer
For the ceremony and reception, please dress formal. You can find detailed inspiration and our "Moody Noir" color palette on the Outfit tab. For all other weekend events, check the specific attire notes under the Itinerary tab.
Question
Can I snap photos?
Answer
We’re having a partially unplugged ceremony. We ask that phones and cameras stay tucked away during the processional and vows, so everyone can be fully present. Once we’ve said our vows, we’ll give you a clear signal to take all the photos and videos you’d like for the first kiss and the recessional!
Question
Are events kid-friendly?
Answer
While we adore your little ones, the ceremony and reception will be adults-only unless they are explicitly included on your invitation. Kids are welcome at our other weekend events, though keep in mind some bars may have age restrictions at night. If you need help finding a local sitter, let us know in advance.
Question
How can I provide a gift?
Answer
Your presence is the greatest gift! If you’d like to contribute to our next chapter, please visit the Registry tab for details. You’ll also find our engagement registry at the bottom of that page.
Question
Who is our weekend point person?
Answer
We will provide a designated "day-of" contact closer to the wedding date, so you can reach out with any last-minute questions!