FAQs
Question
What time zone is South Bend in?
Answer
Please note that there is a time change between Chicago and South Bend. South Bend Airport and Notre Dame are on Eastern time. Chicago airports (ORD and MDW) are on Central Time. Please take note of this to avoid missed flights!
Question
What is the dress code?
Answer
We kindly request that our guests wear formal attire for our wedding. For men, this means a tuxedo or a full suit with a tie, while we recommend long dresses (knee-length or longer) for women. In keeping with tradition, we kindly ask that guests avoid wearing white, ivory, or any similar shades. Our goal is for everyone to feel comfortable and share in this special celebration with us, so please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about what to wear!
Question
Can I bring a plus one?
Answer
We are excited to welcome as many of our friends and family to celebrate our special day with us as possible. Your invitation will indicate if you can bring a guest.
Question
Are children welcome?
Answer
This is an adult only event and we encourage you to use this as a "weekend out" for yourselves!
Question
I have an allergy/dietary restriction. Can this be accommodated?
Answer
When RSVPing for the wedding please enter any allergy restrictions into the form. The venue will do its best to accommodate all allergy requests and we will notify you if there are any issues ahead of time.
Question
Is there parking at the venue?
Answer
Notre Dame is a walking campus with little to no vehicle traffic, however there are parking lots on campus. Walking to and from wedding events is highly recommended due to ease and walkability of campus. Please find a map of campus here: https://map.nd.edu/ Free parking is available in the Visitors Lot by the Hammes Bookstore. Parking for the mass will be allowed in the Grotto lot or St. Liam’s lot as long as space is available. Alternative parking is located along St. Mary’s Road. Handicapped parking for the mass is available for cars with ADA placards in the Grotto Lot, St. Liam’s lot and off Sorin Circle. Please use appropriately marked spots. After the mass had concluded, please move cars to the reception parking for convenience. Feel free to check back as we get closer to the event for specifics!
Question
Are the Basilica and reception venue handicap accessible?
Answer
The Basilica and reception venue are both handicap accessible. We will also be able to provide mobility assistance to get to/from both venues if needed. Please reach out to Conor or Jessica for more information!
Question
Can we take pictures during the wedding ceremony?
Answer
As the wedding is part of a religious ceremony in the Basilica we respectfully ask that you please refrain from taking photographs during the ceremony. You are more than welcome to take pictures during the reception! We have hired a professional photographer and videographer to cover the entire day. Rest assured that we will share all the incredible moments they capture as soon as we get them!
Question
What will the weather be like in South Bend?
Answer
South Bend summers can get surprisingly hot! Temperatures will range from highs in the 90s to lows in the 70s. Both the Basilica and the reception ballroom are air conditioned, however it will be warm walking across campus. Make sure to pack walking shoes if you will be exploring campus before the wedding, and be prepared just in case there is rain!
Question
I am not Catholic or do not practice. Can I still attend mass?
Answer
Everyone is welcome to attend the Mass regardless of their religious beliefs.