FAQs
Question
When is the wedding?
Answer
Our wedding will take place on December 20, 2025.
Question
Where will the wedding ceremony and reception be held?
Answer
The ceremony will be held at The Fishermen's Inn. Their address is 43W901 Main Street Rd Elburn, IL 60119. The reception will follow at the same location.
Question
Is there a place to stay nearby?
Answer
Yes! We highly recommend that our guests stay at Hotel Arista, located at 2139 City Gate Lane, Naperville, IL 60563. This beautiful boutique hotel is where all of our wedding weekend events will be taking place, making it the most convenient option for your stay. We’ve reserved a wedding block at Hotel Arista under the name “Cathers-Schmidt”, which includes a discounted rate for our guests. To reserve a room: Online: Visit our direct booking link: https://reservations.travelclick.com/111912?groupID=4898949 If block availability remains, the special rate will appear. Otherwise, you’ll see the next most favorable rate options. By Phone: Call (630) 579-7834 or (888) 504-0088 (Toll Free) Mention our group name Cathers-Schmidt Wedding Room Block and use the block code SCH1220. The hotel also offers a free shuttle to and from our ceremony and reception at The Fishermen’s Inn in Elburn, IL (about a 20–25 minute drive), making transportation simple and stress-free. Hotel Arista features spacious rooms, modern amenities, on-site dining, and great service to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. We hope this helps make your weekend smooth, fun, and memorable!
Question
What is the parking situation for the event?
Answer
We are pleased to offer a convenient shuttle service for our guests! Shuttle to the Ceremony: Boarding at Hotel Arista will begin at 2:15 PM, and the shuttle will depart promptly at 2:30 PM. This single shuttle trip will ensure everyone arrives at Fishermen’s Inn by approximately 3:00 PM for the ceremony. Please arrive on time, as the shuttle will not make multiple trips. Return Shuttles After the Reception: Shuttles back to Hotel Arista will run at the following times: - First return shuttle: 8:30 PM - Final return shuttle: 9:15 PM We highly encourage all guests to take advantage of this transportation service, especially if you plan to enjoy beverages throughout the evening. Driving to the Venue: If you prefer to drive, there is ample parking available at Fishermen’s Inn. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before the ceremony to ensure you’re seated and ready to celebrate without missing a moment.
Question
Is the venue and reception handicap accessible?
Answer
Yes, both our venue and reception are fully accessible for individuals with disabilities. If you have any specific concerns or needs, please don't hesitate to inform either bride.
Question
When do we need to RSVP by?
Answer
Please RSVP by October 31, 2025, to help us finalize our headcount. You can respond directly on our website.
Question
Do I have to post back my RSVP or can I RSVP online?
Answer
We kindly ask that guests RSVP through our website by selecting the RSVP tab at the top of the page and following the instructions provided. If it’s easier, you’re also welcome to use the RSVP postcard included with your invitation and return it by mail.
Question
What If I Didn't RSVP In Time?
Answer
If we do not receive your RSVP by the date provided , October 31st, it will be marked as "not attending". We will miss celebrating with you, however, we have to provide final guest counts to vendors within the time frame they have given us. Thank you for understanding!
Question
Am I allowed to bring a plus one?
Answer
Due to the size of our guest list, we will only be able to accommodate those listed on your wedding invitation. We appreciate your understanding, and we’re looking forward to celebrating together!
Question
Am I allowed to bring my children?
Answer
As much as we adore your children, we are keeping our guest list very limited and are only able to accommodate the children named on the invitation. Thank you so much for your understanding.
Question
What is the dress code for your wedding?
Answer
We kindly ask that all guests follow our formal all-black attire dress code. Dresses should be knee-length or longer, and suits may be worn with either a white shirt and black jacket, or a black button-up shirt. We ask to please keep accessories in neutral tones like black or nude shoes, and classic jewelry in silver, gold, rose gold, or pearls. Thank you for helping us create the elegant atmosphere we’ve envisioned. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Question
What time should I arrive at your wedding ceremony?
Answer
We kindly ask that all guests arrive no later than 3:00pm. This will ensure everyone is settled in their seats 15 minutes before we begin. During this time, you’ll have the chance to take in the beautiful decor, enjoy some lovely prelude music, read through the ceremony program, and catch up with other guests. If guests arrive after the ceremony has begun, we will kindly ask them to wait outside in the foyer until the ceremony has concluded. They then are welcomed to join for cocktail hour.
Question
Where should we bring/send our wedding gift?
Answer
Your presence at our wedding means the world to us! If you wish to bless us with a gift feel free to choose something from our Amazon or Zola registry, which offers convenient delivery. We’ll also have a lovely card box available at our reception for any cards you’d like to share.
Question
Will there be other events to attend on the wedding weekend?
Answer
Yes! We have several special events planned throughout the weekend, and we’d love for you to join us for as much as you’re able to. Welcome Event – 9:30 PM (Night Before the Wedding) Held in the Zorba Lounge at Hotel Arista, this gathering includes late-night appetizers and drinks—a relaxed chance to mingle before the big day. After-Party – 9:45 PM (Following the Reception) Also in the Zorba Lounge at Hotel Arista, all guests are invited to keep the celebration going with music, dancing, and more fun after the reception ends. Post-Wedding Brunch – 9:00 AM (Morning After the Wedding) Join us in the Santorini Room at Hotel Arista for a farewell brunch. It’s the perfect way to gather one more time, recap your favorite moments, and enjoy breakfast together. All weekend events will take place at Hotel Arista (aside from the ceremony and reception), where we’ve also reserved a block of rooms for your convenience. We’d love to celebrate with you throughout the entire weekend!
Question
Am I allowed to take photos at your wedding?
Answer
We kindly request an unplugged wedding ceremony to ensure that our guests can fully immerse themselves in the moment and to allow our professional photographer and videographer to capture the best possible images without distractions from devices. However, we encourage you to take out your phones anytime after the ceremony to capture all the fun and memories!
Question
what food will be served and what if I have dietary restrictions?
Answer
We are excited to share a delicious menu for our wedding celebration, featuring a variety of entrées to suit different tastes: Filet Mignon A 6.5 oz marinated filet, grilled to a perfect medium-rare and finished with a mushroom demi-glace. Served with garlic mashed potatoes and fresh seasonal vegetables. Italian Stuffed Chicken Chicken filled with boursin, mozzarella, provolone, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, topped with a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce. Served with Parmesan risotto. Tuscany Pasta (Vegetarian) Farfalle pasta tossed with a medley of sautéed cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and sun-dried tomatoes. If you have any dietary restrictions or specific preferences, please let us know in advance. You can indicate your needs when you RSVP, or feel free to reach out to either of the brides directly with any special requests. We’ll do our best to ensure you’re well taken care of and can enjoy a wonderful meal with us.
Question
Will There Be An Open Bar?
Answer
Yes, the drinks are on us and the hangover is on you - get ready to celebrate! Please drink and act responsibly and prioritize using the shuttle as your transportation or arrange a ride back to where you are staying if you plan on drinking. We want all our loved ones to get home safe.
Question
What time does the reception end?
Answer
The reception will end at 9:15pm. We hope you can join us for the entire celebration!
Question
Who can I contact if I have more questions?
Answer
If you have any further questions or concerns that were not addressed on this page, please feel free to reach out to either of the brides. Amber's phone number is 217-816-4658 and Caroline's phone number is 847-420-4931.