FAQs

Question

Is there a dress code?

Answer

Our wedding is black tie optional. We love dressing up and if you do too, please feel free to have fun with it! A suit and tie or tuxedo is appropriate for men and cocktail or floor length dress or dressy pantsuit is appropriate for women. Most of the wedding will take place inside, but please remember that New England weather changes quickly!

Question

I have a food allergy, can I make a special request?

Answer

Yes, please let us know if you have any allergies or other restrictions! The chef at Thompson Inn is wonderful, and we will happily accommodate allergies and/or dietary restrictions to the best of our ability! Please let us know by the RSVP date in the allotted space under your meal choice.

Question

Are we permitted to take pictures/video at the Ceremony?

Answer

We kindly ask that all cellphones/electronic devices are put away during the ceremony, both to respect the sanctity of the Church and to make sure everyone is able to be present and enjoy.

Question

Is there parking available at the ceremony and reception?

Answer

There is parking at both locations, although we encourage carpooling when possible. For those of you staying at the Holiday Inn Express or the Comfort Inn and Suites, we will have shuttle buses to and from the venue. If you are driving to the reception, we will have a parking attendant to guide you.

Question

Is there transportation to and from the hotels to the ceremony/reception?

Answer

Yes, we will have a shuttle bus to and from the church for those staying at the Holiday Inn or the Comfort Inn and Suites. Please see the Schedule tab as the date gets closer for more detailed timing of the shuttle schedule.

Question

Can I bring a date?

Answer

We have given plus ones to many of you, but if you did not receive one please let us know by the RSVP date so we can accommodate! Unfortunately, we most likely will not have the space for additional guests beyond the plus one.

Question

Are kids welcome?

Answer

We have invited a few older children, but we ask that for the most part, this will be an adult party. Please let us know if you have any concerns or questions.

Question

Do you have any hotel recommendations?

Answer

We have a list of places to stay in the area. If you want to be close, there is a Holiday Inn Express right in Durham where we will book a block of rooms and have a shuttle bus, but if you would prefer to stay in Portsmouth, it is a wonderful city with lots to do!

Question

What time should I arrive at the ceremony?

Answer

Our ceremony starts at 2:00pm in Saint Thomas Parish Church in Durham, so please try to arrive 15 minutes early to take your seats!

Question

When should I RSVP by?

Answer

Please RSVP by September 9, 2023 or sooner. At that time, we request a meal choice and notification of any dietary restrictions.

Question

What should I expect from the ceremony?

Answer

We are having a traditional Catholic wedding ceremony in Nick's childhood church. If you are unfamiliar, there will be programs to help guide you through the mass, and we encourage everyone to participate as they are comfortable. The ceremony should take about an hour.

Question

Will the wedding be indoors or outdoors?

Answer

If the weather is nice, the Thompson Inn has a gorgeous lawn with a firepit, but most of the wedding will be taking place inside the cyderhouse or just outside on the covered patio.

Question

Will there be an open bar?

Answer

We will have open bar during cocktail hour, and a cash bar will be available for the remainder of the day.