FAQs
Question
What is Black Tie Optional?
Answer
Please refer to this article: https://www.brides.com/black-tie-optional-wedding-attire-4800698
Question
What should I get the couple?
Answer
Your presence is more important than your presents. If you would like to provide a gift, please feel free to contribute to the Honeymoon Fund in the Registry.
Question
How do I get a passport?
Answer
We recommend you apply for your passport six months prior to travel. Please refer to the U.S. Secretary of State's Office for guidance via this link: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply.html
Question
What is the Church Protocol?
Answer
Although our ceremony isn't a Catholic wedding, we must follow the established rules. The church requires modest formal clothing and that visible tattoos be covered. While celebrating is encouraged, loud noises and disruptions are not permitted. Food and Drinks within the Church are also not permitted, as this is a historic Abbey dating back to 1125. The Sacristan (Church Enforcer) will oversee compliance and may ask a guest to leave if the protocols are violated.
Question
When does the after party end?
Answer
There is no set end time. This is Germany; they party until you pass out.
Question
How to get back to my Lodgings/Hotel?
Answer
We recommend you book a room onsite or with the other hotels associated with the venue for the night of the wedding, which will shuttle you back to your accommodations. If you book a place outside the venue's hotels, we plan to hire a transportation service for guests, but we recommend that you inquire about other options.
Question
Can I use my Debit and Credit Card in Germany and Austria?
Answer
Yes, you can use both types of cards; however, we recommend using a credit card, as it offers an extra level of financial protection compared to a debit card. For credit cards, we recommend a 0% international transaction fee card so that each transaction does not incur a credit card fee. Please place a travel notice with your bank or credit card company before travelling so that your transaction in Europe will not be declined by the banking institution, which may assume it is fraudulent. Please review this Rick Steves guide on ATMs and Banking: https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/money/bank-card-precautions
Question
How do I exchange Dollars for Euros?
Answer
You can do this at your U.S. bank and request Euros in advance; we recommend requesting Euros a month in advance. Another option is to use your debit card at a German or Austrian bank to withdraw Euros; there are fees associated with the withdrawal, issued by your U.S. Bank and the German or Austrian Bank. Please review this Rick Steves guide on ATMs and Banking: https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/money/bank-card-precautions
Question
What should I use at restaurants - Card or Cash?
Answer
In Germany, many restaurants, cafés, and small food vendors may not accept card payments; guests are encouraged to carry cash or check in advance to confirm card acceptance.
Question
Is Germany & Austria Safe?
Answer
Yes, it is safer than the United States.
Question
Are there pickpocketers?
Answer
The area of Germany and Austria you will be in is not a prime pickpocketing area; however, we do recommend taking precautions. Please review this Rick Steves guide to pickpocketing: https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/theft-scams/outsmarting-pickpockets
Question
I landed at the Airport, now what?
Answer
If you arrive in Munich International Airport (MUC) and need to travel to Salzburg for your Hotel, you can use the train services provided by Deutsche Bahn and OBB. The costs range from $35 to $55 per ticket and are usually faster than driving. If you arrive at Salzburg Airport W. A. Mozart (SZG), you can use a local taxi service or a ride-sharing app (Uber & Lyft) to reach your Hotel in Salzburg. Do not feel afraid to use the municipal bus service in Salzburg, it is safe and efficient.
Question
Can I use my phone in Germany & Austria?
Answer
We recommend you contact your phone carrier to discuss an international data plan that includes free texting and calling. Example: T-Mobile provides a plan that ranges from $5 to $50 with varying services and data speeds.
Question
I do not know German, what should I do to get by?
Answer
We recommend you use Google Translate; download the German language in the app so you can use it offline if you do not have service. You can use its camera feature, which reads signs and menus and translates for you.
Question
What is the weather like in June? What should I pack?
Answer
We recommend you check the weather about a week in advance to properly pack. The area of Germany and Austria you will be in is mountainous and can be chilly and sometimes rainy, even in June. We recommend bringing a windbreaker and a pair of pants. Definitely bring walking shoes.