FAQs

Question

Do I need to bring a gift?

Answer

Your presence at this joyous celebration is what truly matters. Gifts are optional but highly appreciated!

Question

When should I RSVP by?

Answer

Please RSVP with your entree selection by February 24th, 2025

Question

When and where should I arrive?

Answer

For most guests, please plan to arrive at the dinner reception located at Ballroom at the Ben on May 24th, 2025, at 5 PM. Between 4-11 PM, you can park at no-charge in the parking lot located at 904 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, which has been specially reserved for our guests. (The parking lot is directly across the street from the ballroom’s main entrance, located on 9th Street in between Sansom and Chestnut Streets. It has a large green “PARK” sign.) **PLEASE NOTE: Complimentary guest parking is available 4-11 PM. The dinner reception begins at 5 PM.** Enter the venue, walk through the lobby straight back to reach the elevators, and take the elevator to the third floor to reach the cocktail space. Attendants will be there to help guide you

Question

Will there be free parking?

Answer

Yes! If you are interested in attending the optional Malayalam wedding mass and ceremony (2-3 PM at St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Forane Church in Philadelphia, PA), please note there is free parking available in the church parking lot. If you are attending the dinner reception (5-10 PM at “Ballroom at the Ben” in Philadelphia, PA), complimentary guest parking is available in the lot located at 904 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107. **PLEASE NOTE: Complimentary guest parking is available 4-11 PM. The dinner reception begins at 5 PM.**

Question

What should I wear?

Answer

Indian formal or American formal attire. Please wear whatever makes you look and feel best!

Question

Should I attend church at 2 PM?

Answer

It’s completely optional! Please be aware that the majority of the Catholic mass will be spoken in Malayalam, and it is expected to conclude at 3 PM

Question

How far apart are the church and the venue?

Answer

About a 35 minute drive

Question

Is it OK if I just attend the dinner reception at 5 PM?

Answer

Yes! We want to prioritize the experience of our guests, so attending just the reception at 5 PM is fine!

Question

Will there be an open bar?

Answer

Absolutely! There will be two, both of which will be open to guests throughout the event

Question

What kind of food will be served?

Answer

All kinds! Cocktail hour on the third floor will commence at 5 PM, during which various carving, Italian, and Southwest stations will be replenished throughout the hour. After, following the appetizers and your choice of entree, there will be a Viennese dessert room with wedding cake, an ice cream sundae bar, and an international coffee bar!

Question

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

Answer

Yes! Please let us know in advance and we are happy to forward your request to the venue

Question

Is the venue handicap accessible?

Answer

Yes! Please take the elevator to the third floor for cocktail hour at 5 PM. There will be a ramp overlying the steps to reach the cocktail space. After 6 PM, please take the elevator to the lower “M” floor of the ballroom