FAQs
Question
Why an elopement? Why Washington?
Answer
As we were planning our wedding of close to 100 people, facing the stress of decision-making, trying to accommodate the many requests that were coming in from different people, we asked ourselves, "Why are we doing this? What is important to us? What do WE want?" Ultimately, the large wedding was just not for us. As many of you know, we prioritize travel in our family. In any given year, you can expect to see us leave the state anywhere from 1-4 times, so a destination wedding seemed like the perfect plan for us. We have always loved the Pacific Northwest (the rain, the cool weather, the mossy forests), and as soon as we happened upon The Castle at Summit Lake online, we knew it was the right choice for us. We absolutely fell in love with the property and are very excited to share one of our favorite states with all of our loved ones.
Question
Who is on the guest list?
Answer
The Castle at Summit Lake can accommodate 24 guests with shared rooms, so we had to make some tough decisions about who we could invite. After an arduous decision-making process, we trimmed our guest list down to just our bridal party, parents, grandparents, children, and a couple close family friends. While we love all of our friends and extended family, it was just not possible to invite everyone. We will have a videographer on site that will create a wedding day video that we can share with everyone once we get home.
Question
When is our RSVP due?
Answer
Please RSVP here on Zola by November 30th.
Question
What if I do not RSVP by the due date?
Answer
Because we need to get our final numbers to our vendors in a timely fashion, anyone who does not RSVP by the deadline will be marked as “declined”. We will miss celebrating with you, but hope you understand our need to coordinate with vendors within an appropriate timeline.
Question
Can I bring a plus one?
Answer
Unfortunately, the lodging and catering we have available are only enough to accommodate the individuals to whom invitations are addressed. While we wish you could all bring the people that are special to you, our dream for our destination micro-wedding is that it be a small, intimate affair with only our loved ones. Any individuals attending and not on the guest list could result in a $5000 fine charged by the property owners to the bride and groom. Thank you for understanding and helping us realize our dreams for our special day.
Question
What will be provided during our stay?
Answer
All lodging costs are covered for the whole weekend. Following the ceremony, a catered reception dinner & dessert will be provided, as well as brunch the following morning. We will stock the kitchen with a variety of snacks, breakfast, and lunch options for the duration of our stay, and the bar will be stocked with beer, wine, and seltzers, available to all guests (21+).
Question
What do we need to cover?
Answer
The only thing you are responsible for is your plane ticket to Washington, your transportation contribution, and any purchases outside of the wedding you would like to make while you're here.
Question
How much are flights?
Answer
We would recommend waiting to book flights until about 90 days prior to the departure date, as historically this is when flight prices are the lowest (around late November for our travel dates). Currently, it looks like you can expect to spend anywhere from $80-$200 for a roundtrip ticket from DIA, with the average being $150. Flights from California may run a bit higher, with the average from Fresno appearing to be around $200-$250.
Question
What about transportation?
Answer
We are requesting $50/person (children excluded) for a transportation contribution. This will go towards two 15-passenger vans that will provide transportation to you the entire weekend. This includes transportation to and from the airport, all excursions, and the entire time we're in Olympia. You are NOT required to pay this transportation contribution if you would prefer to secure your own rental car or rideshare services during your time here. The vans CAN accommodate car seats.
Question
What should I pack?
Answer
Washington is notoriously chilly and rainy in the winter time, so pack your warm clothes and rain gear! We would also recommend packing a good pair of tennis shoes or hiking boots if you're wanting to explore the rainforest or beach more in depth. An umbrella is a must, as you WILL get wet at some point during your stay. The ceremony and reception will be indoors, but there is a ton of outdoor space to explore at The Castle.
Question
Where am I sleeping?
Answer
Room arrangements have been carefully determined with everyone's comfort in mind. Due to space, most rooms are a shared space. If you would like to potentially move rooms, please speak to the bride and groom and we will try to accommodate requests. All rooms are at capacity and cannot fit any additional people.
Question
Can I post pictures online?
Answer
Please refrain from posting any photos to ANY form of social media (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc.) until after the bride and groom have had a chance to share their news. As this is considered an elopement, many of our friends and loved ones are unaware of the fact that we are getting married so much sooner than expected, and we would love to be the ones that get to share the surprise. Once we have had a chance to notify everyone, feel free to post away!
Question
Do I still need to buy a suit/dress if I was part of the original wedding party?
Answer
Nope! Please feel free to reroute the cost of your suit/dress into your plane ticket and transportation contribution. We want all of our guests to be comfortable, so wear whatever you'd like (within reason). If you are someone that is officiating or escorting a ring bearer down the aisle, any dark attire (aside from black) will do.
Question
Will you be upset if we don't attend?
Answer
ABSOLUTELY NOT. We completely understand that our choice to elope and have a destination micro-wedding was not the original intention for this wedding. We understand that the financial aspect or timing may not permit you to attend. While we will miss your presence, we will hold absolutely no ill will towards you for not being able to attend. Ultimately, you all have to do what is best for yourselves and families. While we hope to see you here, we understand it may not be possible for everyone. We still love you!