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FAQs

The Wedding Website of Mandi Gills and Austin Kaval
If you have any questions on anything other than what we have listed here then please reach out to me at, (540) 632-3174.
Question

Why New Orleans?

Answer

We first fell in love with New Orleans on a trip to see Billy Strings for three unforgettable nights—a shared love that’s been a meaningful part of our relationship from the beginning. What we didn’t expect was how deeply we would fall for the city itself. From the music drifting through the streets to the food, history, art, and unmistakable energy of the people, every moment felt alive and magical. It quickly became more than a destination to us—it became a place we didn’t want to leave. Austin even later shared that he had thought about proposing during that trip… he just waited for the right moment. We can’t wait to return to the city that brought so much joy into our story and share its magic with the people we love most.

Question

Am I allowed to bring a plus one?

Answer

In order to keep our wedding as intimate as possible plus ones are being reserved for specific people. If you received a plus one they will appear when you RSVP. If you have questions about this please reach out to me. Unaccounted for guests will not be permitted into any part of the wedding weekend.

Question

Will there be an open bar?

Answer

Unfortunately, we will not be doing an open bar as many family members and those in the wedding party do not partake. There will be beer, wine, and champagne served throughout the reception. We also plan to go out on Bourbon following the reception where there will be plenty of drinks to choose from (individuals will be responsible for their own drinks).

Question

What is the dress code?

Answer

Black Tie Optional / Formal Attire, meaning women should wear floor length dresses or gowns and men should wear formal tuxedos or a suit. The wedding party will be wearing black it is also black tie optional so if black is what you want to wear then please do! We ask that you avoid white and champagne colors as these are reserved for the wedding party.

Question

Going out after!

Answer

Due to city ordinances in New Orleans we will be wrapping up the reception with a Second Line Parade around 9pm. We will then have time to change (be sure to bring close toed shoes, street sludge is a big thing in NOLA) and hop on the Trolley Car outside of the venue. This car will take us out to the French Quarter and Bourbon Street to continue celebrating! All guests are invited to join us for this part of the evening but it is optional :)

Question

Best way to get to the venue?

Answer

If you have a car or have rented one there is street parking on the street of the venue however this is first come for the entire city. Uber will be the best option for most people who are not in close walking distance or already at the Inn. Ubers are readily available and reasonably priced. There is also Public Transportation, a Trolley Car sits outside of the Inn but Guests would need to look into scheduling and passes to utilize this service.

Question

Are children invited?

Answer

No. If your child is in our lives I assure you, we love them very much but we came to New Orleans to party and celebrate, this is an 18+ event.

Question

Rental Cars & Parking

Answer

While there is parking in New Orleans it is expensive if it is not included in your lodging so be prepared for that. This city is pretty walkable if you are healthy and able. Most everything you could want to explore is in walking distance and uber is readily available for a decent cost at most times. I recommend that some guests have a rental car but I do not think they are needed for everyone. If you would like to get with me on logistics and planning then let me know. We will be driving down and I know a few others will as well so there will be some transportation there already. There is some street parking on Canal Street by the venue but this is first come first serve and parking at the home will be reserved for Austin & I as well as our Grandmothers.

Question

Arrival Time for the Wedding

Answer

Please arrive around 4pm central time. The ceremony will begin at exactly 4:30pm.

Question

When do we have to RSVP?

Answer

We ask that all formally invited guests RSVP by September 23rd, 2026. We are having a small wedding which has meant leaving some of those we love out, if you cannot make it we need to know so we can offer invitations to others. If you do plan on coming then it is also important that you RSVP so that we can start to gather dietary restrictions and headcounts.

Question

Rain or Shine?

Answer

Plan A is to hold the Ceremony, Reception, and Parade outside. In the case of rain we will have the Garden Courtyard tented. If weather is particularly bad then the event will be moved inside the Inn. The Second Line can also perform inside but Plan A is to do it around Canal Street.

Question

What's the Weather like?

Answer

While the weather can be unpredictable, late January in New Orleans is typically mild and comfortable compared to most of the places our guests are traveling from. Average daytime temps range from 60s-70s while nights can get down to 50s-40s. Occasional rain showers are possible during this time of year so please pack accordingly.

Question

City / Inn Rules

Answer

There are a few rules that we will have to follow due to city ordinances that I would like for guests to be aware of. No loud music can be played outdoors after 9pm, this is the reasoning for a shorter reception. No foul language can be used in our music, all versions of songs will be censored.