As you may know, Andrew and Katie both love to travel! Before Andrew and Katie met, Andrew's dream was always getting married on a beach in another country, and Katie's ideal wedding was at Saints Peter and Paul Jesuit Church in Detroit! Having a ceremony in Detroit and reception just over the border was a great way to compromise their two visions. Plus, how cool will it be to celebrate a wedding in two countries?!
The dress code is Formal, but definitely not black tie. Most of the guys will be wearing suits, but we know it might get hot on a July day in Michigan, so please dress comfortably!
Everyone needs a passport to cross the border into Canada (even the little ones). Alternatively, you can present a Global Entry card, a U.S. passport card, or an "Enhanced" drivers license to cross the border. If you do not currently have a passport, the current wait times for a passport are about 6-8 weeks from the time of application.
We recommend taking the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, but you can also take the Ambassador Bridge. It might be helpful to look up border wait times online, and remember to check laws about what you can and cannot take across the border. The Canada Border Services Agency website has helpful information: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/menu-eng.html
Unfortunately, you cannot cross the border in a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft). For out-of-town guests that are flying in, we highly recommend renting a car from Detroit airport. Alternatively, you can use the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel Bus or hire a car in advance to take you across the border; please see the link here: https://www.windsortransportationservices.com/contact-us
Yes! All major carriers support the cellular networks in Canada. While most American-based cell phone plans include complimentary cell service in Canada, we highly encourage you to check with your current provider for your specific roaming charges while abroad.
Unfortunately, no places in Canada accept American currency. Most banks charge extra fees for taking out cash in a foreign ATM. We recommend paying with your credit card or getting Canadian cash from your local bank branch before you cross the border to save on fees and exchange rates.
For those staying at the Retro Suites, the Chatham Armory is a four minute walk away! For those staying at the Holiday Inn and do not wish to drive, Chatham has a ride-share service similar to Uber called Uride for guests. Reliable Taxi service is also available: Courtesy Cab (519-352-2300) or Blu Light Taxi (548-996-2040).
Did you know that Andrew and Katie were both accepted into Teach For America at the same time? Although they both joined the 2012 corps, Andrew was placed in Newark, NJ and Katie was placed in Detroit, MI, and they never met until 2021!