FAQs
Question
Ala...bama?
Answer
Yes, we chose to get married in Alabama. No, we don't agree with their politics, but we do love their state parks! Anna was just as skeptical when Ian said it was his favorite camping spot, but one trip was all it took to convert her. Cheaha mountain is Alabama's highest point, perched among the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Deal with it, city slickers; yer gittin' sum nature! Cheaha State Park is located halfway between Atlanta and Birmingham. Both cities/airports are roughly an hour drive to the cities of Oxford/Anniston, and the park is an additional 30 minute drive up the mountain. Oxford and Anniston have all amenities and major chains you could need. Our hotel room block will be here. (And listen, if Oscar had his way, the wedding would be in Carmi, IL, which is far more remote than Cheaha)
Question
What will the weather be like?
Answer
Gorgeous. The Alabama Color Trail predicts that Cheaha will be experiencing near-peak Fall foliage. November temperatures in the park typically range from the upper 60s (day) to the upper 30s (night). According to Farmer's Almanac, the record low for November 14th is 38. You will likely only need layers during the day, but we recommend cozy outerwear for the evening hours. If you know Anna, you know she loves a good statement coat. Keep an eye on the forecast for more specific temps.
Question
Do we have to camp?
Answer
Not unless you want to! The lodge itself sleeps 32. Elsewhere in the park there are cabins and chalets available to rent and a few "Glamping" tents that have both A/C and heat. There is improved camping (tents/campers/RVs with in-site hookups) and primitive camping. We have a room block at the Hampton Inn down the mountain (approx. 30 minute drive). There will be a shuttle available for the wedding to and from the hotel.
Question
What's the food situation?
Answer
The lodge is Party Headquarters. There will be meals and beverages for the welcome party on 11/13/24 (4-8pm) and for the wedding/reception on 11/14/25 (5-8pm). That said, the lodge is rented for the entire time, with full access to the commercial kitchen. There will be an assortment of breakfast cereals, fruits, and snacky items if you want to stop by and use the facilities. If you are camping, come get your ice at the lodge! There is an ice machine. The park has a general store, which has a surprising range of foods fit for camping (and an ice cream freezer) at pretty reasonable prices. This includes beer and wine.
Question
Can I bring a plus one?
Answer
Unfortunately, not unless it is explicitly noted on your invitation. Though we would love to invite anyone and everyone, Bald Rock Lodge has a strict 100-person maximum. If you have kids, you're in luck. They are already included in our headcount. If you want to make it a camping trip with others--no problem! They just can't come to the wedding/reception. The park rangers are kind, wonderful people, but they were quite clear about following protocol.
Question
Logistically...how?
Answer
We get it. We chose an obscure place to get married. Travel can be both challenging and expensive. Under no circumstances do we want anyone to feel burdened by our invitation. Consider this an opportunity but not an obligation. We love you, and we want our guests to be happy--not stressed! This is a celebration, after all.