FAQs

Question

About the Venue

Answer

The Amphitheater of the Redwoods of Pema Osel Ling is a buddhist retreat in the redwood forests of the Santa Cruz mountains. It's gorgeous, and we have it for the majority of the weekend. Please stay tuned for more information, but we will have housing available onsite and events to celebrate even more. Check out their website if you are curious https://www.amphitheateroftheredwoods.com/

Question

Can I use google maps or apple maps to get to the venue

Answer

NO!!! the maps will take you down a scary, windy road, do us a solid and your first stop is the Freedom Blvd. freeway exit and then to the Amphitheater of the Redwoods as your second stop. Reception can be spotty so downloading the map can be helpful.

Question

What is the dress code?

Answer

Forest chique? There may be elements (possible rain and 40-60 degree temperatures) for the ceremony. We have heaters and cover for the cocktail hour and reception. So be comfortable and try to look your best anyways, we'll request no shorts or jeans. For other events you can wear whatever you wish as long as you're decent. For the early bird welcoming party please wear your punniest teeshirt.

Question

Any weird footwear requirements? Can I wear my stilettos?

Answer

So we'll be in a lovely redwood forest in the mountains and the ceremony will take place on cobblestones so we recommend you wear the appropriate footware. ALSO, note about the Buddist reteat rules. Shoes are not allowed inside the Sangha House or Orchard House.

Question

Can we smoke at the venue?

Answer

NO! Since this is a buddist temple no smoking is allowed, no vaping either. We will have nicotine gum and patches available to get you through.

Question

When can I arrive at the venue if I am staying onsite

Answer

Please target between 5-7, but eat your dinner first. There will be snacks and swizzles at the game night.

Question

How to get there from the hotel?

Answer

Please drive to the venue or carpool, we will have a van to take people back to the hotel if you don't want to drive at night or may have put a few too much on to drive. We won't judge and will coordinate you getting back to pick up your vehicle in the am.

Question

Is this a Destination Wedding

Answer

Do you want it to be? Seriously though. You can get to the venue and back to the Bay Area in under 4 hours round trip. So make it a day trip and join us for the ceremony and the reception or the welcome event and reception and ceremony. Or stay one night. Whatever works for you works for us. Just let us know so we have the right headcount.

Question

What are your wedding colors?

Answer

Purple and gold, we are very regal, because we sure aren't Lakers Fans!

Question

Can I bring anything

Answer

Sure! If you are attending the welcome event please bring your favorite lawn game or board game to share! Also, if you have a folding chair please bring it. We are classy enough to have chairs at the reception and ceremony.

Question

How is the cell phone reception

Answer

Spotty at best, there is WiFi in the Celebration Hall, Sangha and Orchard Houses.