FAQs

Question

What are the parking options?

Answer

There is free parking a very short walk from the event. Just before you get to the property, you will see a sign on the left hand side of the road that says "Wedding Parking." From there, walk back out to the road, turn left, start walking, and soon you will see the property on the right.

Question

What are some dining options in Olympia?

Answer

For breakfast and/or coffee, check out the Bread Peddler, Left Bank, the Spar Cafe, Olympia Baking Company, Batdorf and Bronson, and Olympia Coffee Roasters. For lunch or a quick bite, explore 3 Magnets, Dockside Bistro, Vic's Pizza, and Pellegrino's Italian Some of our favorite dinner (or lunch) options include Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar, Sushi House, State and Central, Swing Wine Bar, Chicory, Anthony's Hearthfire, Iron Rabbit, and Flaming Pig BBQ. The Olympia Farmer's Market is in full swing, so check that out at 700 Capitol Way N, Olympia WA 98501 Thursday through Sunday, 10AM-3PM.

Question

What is the weather like in August in Olympia, WA?

Answer

Generally, it is warm and dry in Olympia in August. It is likely to be in the 70s or 80s and sunny. When the sun goes down, it becomes chilly due to the lack of humidity and lows tend to be in the 50s-60s. In Western Washington, there is always the potential for precipitation. For that reason, we suggest that you pack a raincoat or umbrella and remember to bring a jacket, shawl, or sweater for in case.

Question

What is the venue like?

Answer

The venue for the ceremony, reception, and dinner is the Riefler Hackett residence on Johnson Point in Olympia, Washington. The front and backyard portions of the house are grassy with relatively even terrain, although there are slight bumps and hills throughout. A staircase in the backyard leads down to the beach, which guests are welcome to explore while the tide is low. We suggest that flats or heel protectors are worn due to the grassy terrain, and we suggest you bring boots or sneakers to throw on if you want to explore the beach and protect your nice shoes from the many barnacles, sand, shells, and rocks present on the bank and beach. We anticipate that the tide will be low during and after the ceremony, leaving you plenty of time to explore to your heart's content. Please keep in mind that there is an abrupt, steep bank in the backyard that drops rather dramatically down to the beach. It is important that you provide those requiring supervision with eyes on during the entirety of the evening. There are well-established stairs down to the beach on the left hand side of the backyard. Also please keep in mind that our golden retriever Ticaboo and our Hungarian vizsla Montgomery will be present on site (after all, we need a flower girl and ring bearer).

Question

Is there a dress code?

Answer

Not particularly. We suggest semi-formal/cocktail attire, but please be comfortable. The ceremony and reception will both be outdoors, and dress with the activities you anticipate doing in mind, such as walking on the beach or dancing. Considering packing a jacket, blazer, or sweater for when the sun goes down.

Question

What happens after the ceremony?

Answer

There will be a break between the ceremony and dinner while the bride, groom, and family take pictures. Please take this opportunity to explore the beach, connect with one another, and enjoy a beverage of your choosing.

Question

Does the wedding have a theme?

Answer

No.

Question

What should I do if I cannot make it?

Answer

You will be missed, but we COMPLETELY understand. These are strange times, and we recognize that everyone has had to make difficult choices over the last few years. If you are not comfortable traveling, gathering, or if you have otherwise have a conflict, no worries and no need to explain. We do ask that you return your RSVP as soon as possible (and no later than April 30) so that we can plan accordingly.

Question

Is there cell reception at the venue?

Answer

It is highly unlikely that your carrier provides service in this area. For that reason, we suggest that you obtain directions to the venue in advance.

Question

Are kids welcome?

Answer

While this is geared toward being an adult-friendly event, yes, you may bring your children. Please keep in mind that a high degree of supervision is required by you as parents, as there is a steep bank in the backyard that presents a risk of falling, especially to little ones.

Question

Do you have a hotel block reserved for guests?

Answer

No. We suggest you check out VBRO or Airbnb options in the Olympia/Lacy area. Plenty of hotel options are available nearby, but nothing walkable.

Question

Are the ceremony and reception locations wheelchair or ADA accessible?

Answer

Yes, with some caveats. We want to be candid that the events will take place outside on grassy lawn that is relatively flat, but with some variations and unlevel inclines and depressions. The beach is only accessible by stairs, but the ceremony, reception, dinner, and dancing will all take place outdoors on the lawn. Bathroom accommodations will be an ADA compliant, portable toilet with a handwashing station (there is no fancy way to explain that) located near the driveway on flat ground.

Question

Will food and drinks be served at the reception?

Answer

Yes, there will be a cocktail hour with light appetizers, followed by a sit down dinner. Menu options include Sockeye salmon with risotto, steak and potatoes, or butternut squash lasagna. Please indicate on your RSVP whether you or your guest has/have any allergies or dietary considerations that you would like us to keep in mind. Wine, beer, and liquor will be served, and a selection of soft drinks will be available.

Question

Where are you registered?

Answer

www.zola.com/registry/coltonandjess

Question

Will transportation be provided to and from the hotel?

Answer

No, you are responsible for arranging your transportation to and from your lodging.

Question

Can I take a post pictures of the wedding on social media?

Answer

Yes, you do you. We do not have a wedding hashtag, however.

Question

Is there an open bar?

Answer

Yes, there will be an open bar. Please imbibe responsibly.

Question

I cannot attend the wedding in person. Will there be a virtual celebration?

Answer

Unfortunately, no, we do not possess that level of technical prowess.

Question

I'm visiting from out of town. What can I do while in Olympia?

Answer

Please see our "Things to Do" page on this website.

Question

When will the reception end?

Answer

Due to noise ordinances and a desire to be kind to those around us, the reception will end no later than 10 PM sharp. Please be courteous of our neighbors and commit to vacating the premises by this time. While the location feels private, noise carries on the water and we do have close neighbors. We appreciate your cooperation on this front.

Question

What health and safety measures will you be taking during this event?

Answer

The ceremony, reception, and dinner will be held outdoors. There will be a ADA compliant portable toilet and handwashing station available for use. Hand sanitizer will also be provided. Masking is optional. We are not requiring attendees to be vaccinated against COVID-19, but we anticipate that the majority of attendees have chosen to be vaccinated and have received a booster. If you are not vaccinated, we ask that you self-test for COVID-19 and obtain a negative result prior to attending the event, as we have guests that qualify as "high risk" for COVID-19 with whom you will be mingling.

Question

Can I bring my animal(s) to the wedding/reception?

Answer

Unfortunately, no. While we love all animals, and as much as we would like to, we cannot accommodate everyone else's pets. We suggest you check out Rover, Friendly Grove Resort & Spa for Dogs, Top Dog Daycare, or Classy Canine Country Club for options if you are bringing your pet(s) and need a sitter.

Question

Do I need a vehicle?

Answer

Highly likely. Olympia is about an hour/1.5 hours away from SeaTac or Portland airports (a local option is the Tumwater airport but unless you have a private jet this is likely more expensive). There is no reliable train line that connects to Olympia, and Olympia is not walkable to or from the wedding venue. Uber and Lyft are both available, but we suggest you consider renting a vehicle if you are flying in for the event.

Question

May I enter the residence?

Answer

No, the residence will be used by the wedding party and kitchen staff only. We appreciate your cooperation and respect so that we can keep one another healthy and safe during these challenging times. Everything you will need should be outdoors. If you find yourself needing something you lack, feel free to let us know and we will do our best to assist.