FAQs

Question

Do I need a passport?

Answer

Yes. Travel to the European Union requires a passport. Even if you already have a passport please be sure to check that it is valid for the dates of travel and does not expire within 3 months of your trip. Passport applications can take time so we recommend applying or renewing as soon as possible.

Question

Where should I change my money to Euros?

Answer

There are several options to change USD to Euros. You can do this prior to your trip by exchanging a fixed sum through your bank. It is best to do this ahead of time as they usually have to have these ordered and can take a couple of days to weeks. There are currency exchanges at the airport when you arrive in Europe or free standing currency exchange centers in major cities. You can use ATMs in Europe with your US Bank card. Just like in the US, there will be fees associated with using a different bank's ATM. Additionally, the total you withdraw in Euros will reflect in USD on your account so sums will not match.

Question

Will my phone work in Europe?

Answer

We have found that most phone plans now have international service available at a flat cost per day. Generally this activates as soon as you use your phone for the first time outside the US and starts the cycle over again each day that you continue to use it outside the country. We have found the daily fee to be more than worth it for GPS and internet usage while on the go. Since many of these services are basically automatic, we suggest keeping your phone off or on airplane mode to not incur charges. Of course we definitely recommend checking in with your service provider before travelling for any specifics regarding your plan.

Question

Where is Chateau de Courtomer?

Answer

The Chateau is located in the north west of France. It is located approximately 105 miles from Paris.

Question

How do I get to the Chateau?

Answer

There are many options for arranging your ground travel once arriving in France. You can see more details about various options under the Travel section of this website.

Question

Do you have a hotel block for guests? Where do you recommend I stay?

Answer

While there is no traditional hotel block please see notes about staying at the Chateau as well as information on other recommended accommodations all on the Travel & Stay tab.

Question

Where should guests park? Is parking free?

Answer

There will be parking free of charge on the Chateau grounds.

Question

Will I have my own bathroom?

Answer

All rooms at the chateau come with private ensuite baths.

Question

Is there food at the Chateau?

Answer

We are happy to be hosting 3 meals at the Chateau, a welcome dinner buffet, our wedding dinner and a morning after breakfast buffet. The kitchen is fully functional and stocked with all normal appliances and utensils. Just like any vacation rental you must provide your own food if you wish to eat there. They have 2 full sized refrigerators for anything you may want to purchase and store. There is a full supermarket 20 minutes drive from Courtomer and a small market in the village. You are free to enjoy any meals you would like to prepare yourselves. We do not have housekeeping services during the stay so we just ask that you clean up after yourself!

Question

Is there a kitchen?

Answer

The Chateau has a fully equipped kitchen where you are welcome to cook or store any of your own food. Please note that anything used in the kitchen is your responsibility to clean and put away.

Question

Can I bring in my own alcohol?

Answer

The Chateau does not have a corkage fee which means there is no restriction on beverages you can bring on the property. Please feel free to bring anything you would like to drink, especially on nights with no events planned.

Question

Are there laundry facilities?

Answer

The Chateau does offer laundry facilities if you wish to use them during your stay.

Question

Will there be time for sightseeing?

Answer

Yes! We want to make sure everyone has the time to do things they are interested in. Tuesday 9/20 and Thursday 9/22 are free days to make any plans you wish. We will provide breakfast on Thursday morning to get things going after the previous day's celebrations. Otherwise, all excursions and meals are up to you!

Question

What will the weather be like?

Answer

Averages around this time of year are generally in the low 70s during the day and can get into the 50s at night, For the most accurate representation we encourage you to check the weather a few days before your departure. We also suggest packing some layering pieces to keep you comfortable from day to night.

Question

Are children welcome?

Answer

The Chateau is a family friendly venue and bringing your children is totally up to you! If you are interested in staying at the Chateau, please indicate any children you wish to bring when to reach out to francewedding9.22@gmail.com. There are a variety of arrangements that can be made, from cribs available to separate rooms for older children. There are many family and outdoor activities throughout the region and of course amazing opportunities for historical education. But, if you'd rather enjoy some wine and cheese on your own, that's fine too!

Question

Can I bring a date?

Answer

We would love for you to have a travel buddy for this adventure! If you have more specific questions about bringing a guest please let us know at francewedding9.22@gmail.com

Question

Where is the ceremony/reception taking place?

Answer

It's a one stop shop! All of the evening's activities will take place at the Chateau de Courtomer.

Question

Will the ceremony and reception be indoors or outdoors?

Answer

We will have a combination of indoor and outdoor locations throughout the course of the wedding celebration. In case of inclement weather all celebrating will be moved in doors. The temperature in the evening can get cool so please plan accordingly.

Question

What should I wear? Is there a dress code?

Answer

The wedding itself will be semi-formal/cocktail attire. Ladies should wear cocktail dresses, jumpsuits, suits or cocktail separates. Gentlemen should wear suit, sport coats or cocktail appropriate knits. We encourage guests to take inspiration from the colors and style of the Chateau and grounds. Please feel free to incorporate cream, off-white or light beige at no offense to the bride.

Question

What happens between the ceremony and reception?

Answer

The cocktail hour will begin immediately after the ceremony. The bride and groom will be taking some photos around the property and since it is an intimate group, we may come pull you away for a quick photo op with us. But don't worry, you can brink your drink along!

Question

Will food and drinks be served at the reception?

Answer

Yes! There will be a cocktail hour with lite bites followed by a seated dinner.

Question

Will there be any vegan/vegetarian/gluten free/special diet options?

Answer

Our caterer can make special dietary accommodations. Please let us know when you RSVP to the ceremony if you have any restrictions. You can always drop us a more detailed line at francewedding9.22@gmail.com.

Question

What time is the reception scheduled to end?

Answer

With exclusive use of the Chateau comes no curfew. While our entertainment will pack up, the party can continue for those who wish until the wee hours. Please feel free to head up to your room or depart for your offsite accommodation whenever you feel ready during the reception. We want everyone to have a fun and enjoyable evening and get as much rest as you wish!

Question

Are there other wedding events I’m invited to?

Answer

Yes! We will be having a welcome dinner on Monday 9.19 and a day-after brunch on 9.22. Both will also take place at the Chateau. Please see the Schedule tab for more detailed information.

Question

What should I do if I can’t make it?

Answer

You will be greatly missed! If you can not make it to the wedding, please let us know as soon as possible and RSVP “no,” so we can plan accordingly.

Question

When is the RSVP deadline?

Answer

We kindly ask that you RSVP by June 1st, 2022. Please RSVP here on the website.

Question

Where are you registered?

Answer

Your presence at our wedding is present enough! However, for friends and family who have expressed an interest, we’ve created an online registry located on this site under the Registry tab.

Question

I still have questions, what is the best way to contact you?

Answer

We are happy to answer any other questions you may have! Please email us at francewedding9.22@gmail.com.

Question

Are restaurant reservations recommended?

Answer

Yes, especially in Paris, it is highly recommended that you make reservations for dinner at any establishment. Their restaurants may not always accommodate you if you don't have them.

Question

How do I combat jet lag?

Answer

Sleep as much as you can on your flight over. Drink lots of water, and lay off the caffeine and liquor. In a day or two, you should be adjusted to the time changes. I recommend not drinking coffee a day or two prior to leaving, and then having an espresso when you land.

Question

Do you recommended any movies related to France?

Answer

We sure do, take a look below: 1. Saving Private Ryan – Steven Spielberg 2. The King – David Michod 3. The Longest Day - Ken Annakin 4. The Last Duel – Ridley Scott 5. Ronin – John Frankenheimer 6. Les Miserables – Tom Hooper 7. Inglorious Basterds – Tarantino 8. National Lampoons European Vacation -Amy Heckerling 9. The Man in the Iron Mask – Randall Wallace 10. John Adams – Tom Hooper 11. Fly Boys – Tony Bill 12. The Red Baron - Nikolai Müllerschön 13. Aces High – Jack Gold 14. Path of Glory – Stanley Kubrick 15. Midnight in Paris – Woody Allen 16. Dunkirk – Christopher Nolan 17. The French Dispatch – Wes Anderson 18. Patton – Franklin J. Schaffner 19. The Count of Monte Cristo – Kevin Reynolds