FAQs

Question

Why Reid's Palace?

Answer

Welcome to Reid's Palace, a belle Époque step back into time with pastel facades, sweeping terraces and lush subtropical gardens cascading down to the sea. Opened in 1891, the hotel was used as a glamorous retreat for Europe's elite. Hosting royalty, writers, high society and even used by Winston Churchill regularly. Today, it is still widely recognized as a Grand Hotel and prestigious resort, with Madeira's beautiful tropical backdrop and luxurious ocean views. Maria visited Madeira island with her family in 2022 and instantly fell in love with the architecture, sprawling Spanish tiled roofs, bolo do caco, and hard-to-maneuver switchbacks. She knew it wouldn't be the last time there. Andrew has a rich Portuguese family history- his mother Emerald, a Madeira native. His grandparents, have resided on the island until the present. Unfortunately, his grandfather passed away peacefully in Funchal in 2023. Grandma Maria Salete warmly accepts and enjoys her family visits as often as possible. Growing up, Andrew learned the roads of Madeira and experienced growing grapes, fruit and living the adventurous island life! Andrew and Maria knew it was only right to ask their closest friends and family back to the island to share in something so sweet and magical, their wedding.

Question

What will the weather be like in the last week of May?

Answer

Daytime highs are generally in the 68–73 °F range, while nighttime lows typically hover between 59-63°F. Rain is light and frequent during the last week of May especially in the mountains. Do expect long daylight hours, around 15 sunny hours per day.

Question

Will Basil be there?

Answer

Basil Lemon unfortunately cannot travel internationally. She is too chunky to fit under the airplane seat and too badly behaved to be considered a service animal. Her breed cannot fly in cargo (brachycephalic) as her short nose can’t cool her off in high heat. She will be apart off our civil ceremony in our home, Pensacola, Florida.

Question

What should we do when wedding events aren’t taking place?

Answer

We highly encourage our guests to treat this week as their own vacation too. We’ve made a list of places to visit and you are welcome to go with the groups or stay behind and enjoy the amenities of Reid's Palace such as- tennis courts, spa, afternoon tea terrace, gardens, outdoor pools, sea platform and nature walks. No one is required to follow the schedule but we can’t wait to have you join us for our planned events. Find unique things to do in our "Explore Madeira" tab.

Question

What is the dress code for the wedding?

Answer

In celebration of our wedding at Portugal's first luxury hotel, we warmly invite you to embrace the spirit of the setting with attire that is tropical retro, elegant and expressive. We ask that you interpret Black Tie through vibrant color, rich texture, and artistic flair. This is an opportunity to dress boldly and beautifully — to celebrate as if this is an intimate and glamorous dinner party. Think James Bond (the first 4 films). Vintage 1930's and Hollywood glamour are great search words. Please feel encouraged to wear elegant eveningwear in striking hues, unique fabrics, and statement details. Think: opera gloves, dramatic silhouettes, embroidered jackets, silk gowns, non traditional suits or suiting with unique stitching, embellished accessories — anything that evokes a sense of grandeur, creativity, and celebration. Let the architecture and history inspire you. We look forward to sharing this extraordinary moment with you, in fashion. Follow the link for curated dress inspiration for men/women’s attire in all budget ranges. -SHOPMY HERE WOMEN- -SHOPMY HERE MEN-

Question

What should I pack?

Answer

This list is designed for carry on luggage, using mix and match and multi-purpose pieces. 1 Black Tie Outfit • 1 formal gown or tuxedo/suit • 1 pair of dress shoes (block heels or formal loafers) • 1 evening bag or clutch • Formal accessories (jewelry, cufflinks, tie, etc.) 3 Dinners (Dressy) • 2 stylish dresses / nice shirts + trousers • 1 lightweight blazer or dressy jacket • 1 pair of chic flats or sandals (also works for daytime) Daywear (City + Travel Days) • 2–3 tops • 1–2 bottoms (linen pants, shorts, or a skirt) • 1 sundress (doubles for day or dinner) • 1 light sweater or cardigan for evenings • 1 purse or small backpack Activewear • 1 yoga set (top + leggings/shorts) • 1 hiking outfit (moisture-wicking top) • 1 lightweight jacket or windbreaker (for hikes, beach, evenings or traveling) • 1 pair of sturdy walking/hiking shoes (trail sneakers = ideal) • 1–2 swimsuits • 1 pair of flip-flops or water-friendly sandals Shoes (3 Pairs) • Dress shoes (for black tie) • Comfortable walking shoes (sneakers or hiking) • Flip-flops or sandals (beach & casual wear) Accessories • Sunglasses • Lightweight scarf or shawl (for sun, chill, or church visits) • Minimal jewelry (mixable for dinners + black tie) • Belt (optional) Toiletries (Travel-Size Kit) • Sunscreen • Deodorant • Toothbrush/paste • Moisturizer • Shampoo/conditioner/soap (if not relying on hotel) • Razor, hairbrush, hair ties • Makeup (minimal — wedding-ready essentials only) • Perfume (travel-size) • Medications & feminine products Tech & Essentials • Passport + ID • Phone + charger • Travel adapter (Portugal uses type C and F plugs) • AirPods or headphones • Credit card + some Euros

Question

I have dietary restrictions, can these be accommodated?

Answer

Absolutely! Please note any allergies or dietary preferences in your RSVP form. We will do our best to ensure everyone is taken care of.

Question

Who can I contact if I have any other questions about the wedding, lodging, or travel?

Answer

Feel free to reach out to Maria at +1 (248) 396-0177 or Chanelle (Wild & Sage co) +1 (949) 469-4385