FAQs
Question
Do I need a visa to travel to the UK?
Answer
If you are traveling from the United States for a short visit (< 6 months stay) you will need to apply for a ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) before traveling. You’ll apply online (https://www.gov.uk/eta/apply), provide passport details, and pay a small fee. Approval is usually quick, but don’t leave it to the last minute!
Question
Where should we stay?
Answer
Drumtochty Castle offers on-site accommodations, and we hope you can stay with us during the celebration! Rooms are available Monday, November 9 through Thursday, November 12. If your schedule is limited, we recommend staying Monday and Tuesday for the welcome dinner (+dancing) and wedding day. To reserve a room, please let us know your party size and nights. We will coordinate all room assignments with the venue on your behalf. Please note that rooms will be arranged through us, and payment for accommodations will be made directly to us rather than the venue.
Question
What is the dress code?
Answer
The wedding will take place in a castle ballroom, and we’d love for it to feel elegant and celebratory. Day 1 (Welcome/Rehearsal dinner): smart casual - dressy but a bit more relaxed (dresses, jumpsuits, blazers, dress shirts, slacks). Day 2 (wedding day!): formal – think suits & ties, kilts, trews, long dresses, cocktail gowns, or something you’d wear to a fancy evening celebration with dancing (bring pair of flat shoes for ceilidh dancing). Day 3: The day-after gathering will be casual and comfortable, so feel free to wear whatever you’d like. Oh, and don't forget to bring warm coats, layers and waterproofs! It will be COLD!
Question
What will the weather be like?
Answer
It’s Scotland in November…so expect cold, moody, and atmospheric castle weather! It could be rainy, windy, misty, or even snowy (all part of the charm). We’ll be indoors for most of the celebration, but if you’d like to explore the castle grounds, walk through the woods, or take photos outside, please bring warm coats, waterproof layers, and sensible shoes to change into.
Question
Can I smoke or vape at the venue?
Answer
Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited indoors throughout Drumtochty Castle, including all bedrooms on the grounds. Not only would the ancient fire alarms be very unimpressed (and loudly alert the entire castle), but if any traces of smoking or vaping are found, the venue will apply a £250 deep-cleaning charge per room - and we’d all prefer to avoid that kind of excitement. Do not fear, for there will be a designated covered and heated outdoor smoking area, so you can enjoy the Scottish air (in all its moody glory) without setting off alarms and becoming known as the one who interrupted the dancing.
Question
Where can I learn more about the venue?
Answer
Main website: https://www.drumtochtycastle.com/ Virtual tour: https://www.drumtochtycastle.com/virtual-accommodation-tour
Question
When should I RSVP by?
Answer
Kindly RSVP by August 1, 2026 so we can coordinate accommodations with Drumtochty.
Question
Can I bring a date?
Answer
We’d love to celebrate with everyone, and due to limited space, we’ve only been able to extend plus-ones to guests where we can. If you’re not currently partnered, we’ve assumed you’ll be attending solo. That said, if you have a special circumstance or would like to inquire about bringing a guest, please feel free to reach out to us directly as soon as possible. We can’t promise anything, but we’ll do our very best to accommodate where we can. The earlier you ask, the better!
Question
What about meals?
Answer
Most wedding events will include food, but dinner on the final evening will not be provided. We recommend heading into Stonehaven (about 20 minutes away), where there are great restaurants and pubs.
Question
I have a food allergy, can I make a special request?
Answer
Absolutely! We will send out meal preference inquiries closer to the date; please let us know about any food allergies or other requests at that time.
Question
Are there any other events that I should know about around the wedding?
Answer
There is a Welcome/Rehearsal dinner the evening before with practice ceilidh dancing! The day after the wedding, we may plan fun group events. This will be casual and fluid.
Question
Are you registered? Where?
Answer
Your presence at our wedding is truly the greatest gift, especially knowing many of you are traveling from near and far to celebrate with us. We are not expecting any gifts, but if you feel inclined, we would be so grateful for a contribution to our honeymoon fund. We’re planning a mini honeymoon somewhere in Europe after the wedding (destination still to be decided - hopefully it's warm!), and your generosity would help make it extra special. Here is the link: https://www.zola.com/wedding/heatherandchrisdrumtochty2026/registry
Question
What currency is used?
Answer
The UK uses the British Pound (£). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s helpful to have a little cash.
Question
Will my phone work in the UK?
Answer
Check with your provider about international plans. Options include: - International roaming - eSIM plans - Local SIM cards
Question
What should I bring for my stay?
Answer
Rooms on the estate include kitchens (but we will be a 20-minute taxi-ride away from local grocery stores), so we recommend bringing: - Snacks and drinks you enjoy - Any specialty items you’d like during your stay The venue will provide: - Coffee - Tea - Juice - Breakfast staples
Question
Will I need a power adapter?
Answer
If you're coming from the US, yes! The UK uses Type G plugs (three rectangular prongs). Voltage is 230V. Most electronics (phones, laptops) will work fine with just an adapter. Hair tools may require a converter
Question
What is the time zone?
Answer
The UK is 8 hours ahead of California. You may want to arrive early to adjust!
Question
Should we plan extra travel?
Answer
Yes! If you’re coming all this way, we highly recommend making a trip out of it. Be aware it is winter in Scotland, days are cold, rainy and short (sunset is ~4 pm), but there are many cozy and interesting places and to visit and tours to join during this time :) Great options: - Plan tours or travel the weekend before or after the wedding - Base yourself in Edinburgh or Aberdeen. There are many tour companies offering: - Highland day trips - Loch Ness day trips - Castle tours - Whisky distillery visits
Question
Any etiquette tips for visiting the UK?
Answer
Ordering at pubs: You typically order and pay at the bar, not at your table Tipping is not required at pubs Tipping etiquette: Restaurants: ~10–12.5% if not already included Many places include a service charge—no need to tip extra Taxis: round up or add ~10% Queuing (lining up!): The UK takes queues seriously 😄 Always join the line and wait your turn Look both ways! Cars drive on the left side of the road Remember to look right first when crossing Volume & manners: People tend to be fairly reserved/quiet in public spaces Read the room: a good tip is to match the noise level around you. Dining pace: Meals are typically slower-paced, don’t expect the bill immediately—you may need to ask for it Payments: Contactless (tap-to-pay) is widely used Apple Pay / credit cards work almost everywhere Weather talk is universal: Talking about the weather is always acceptable and often encouraged Final note: Don’t worry too much—people are very welcoming, and you’ll pick things up quickly. Just be kind and enjoy the experience!
Question
Other helpful tips
Answer
Coordinate travel plans early with other guests - Consider trains + taxis if you prefer not to drive - Bring layers—Scottish weather can be unpredictable! - Turn the trip into a longer Scotland adventure
Question
Sample Scotland Itinerary (7 days)
Answer
7 Day Trip (Highlands + Wedding) Day 1 – Arrive in Edinburgh - Settle in, light exploring - Walk Royal Mile, tour Edinburgh Castle Day 2 – Highlands Tour - Book a guided day tour (no driving needed!) - See mountains, lochs, and castles Day 3 – Travel North to Venue - Train to Stonehaven & taxi to Drumtochty Castle or shuttle/drive to Drumtochty Castle directly - Welcome dinner + dancing Day 4–5 – Wedding + unwind - Enjoy the celebration - Explore nearby coast or countryside Day 6: Return to Edinburgh - Explore Edinburgh & nearby locations - Graveyard tour (obviously) Day 7: Return home - Say goodbye and fly home!
Question
Are children welcome?
Answer
Yes! We would love to have your children join us in celebrating. After all, they are the best dancers :)
Question
Will childcare be available?
Answer
We are happy to help coordinate optional group nanny services for those who are interested. We’ve been in touch with an experienced local provider, Thank Evans Childcare, who specializes in wedding childcare. They offer: Qualified, vetted nannies (first aid trained, fully insured) On-site supervision during dinner and evening events Help with bedtime routines and babysitting in rooms Toys, games, and activities for all ages Typical cost: ~£28 per nanny per hour (slightly higher after midnight) Final cost depends on number and ages of children If there is enough interest, guests are welcome to coordinate together to share services and cost. This is completely optional, but a great option if you’d like to fully enjoy dinner and dancing.
Question
What are the ceilidh dances?
Answer
Strip the Willow Gay Gordons Dashing White Sergeant Eightsome Reel Virginia Reel Reel of the 51st See some of the dances here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPDwO-M-VUE&t=131s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vboU2A59POs