There has recently been a spike in the new COVID variant in Portland. When possible, please take a self-test before the Wedding.
Public transportation in Portland is available, but not very convenient or fast for our event locations. We highly recommend renting a car, or using rideshares such as Uber, Lyft, and Radio Cab. For those renting a car, we would not recommend leaving it overnight at HK Cafe's parking lot.
It is important to us that you feel comfortable. We recommend dressing festive-formal. For women, please don't wear black.
Jill (James’ sister) has prepared an extensive list of sights and bites to try while you’re in town. https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/u/0/d/1Kgk0EMQRPbh87Vn_Pw505fy7E5TDvyl0Q8YFw1kht5A/htmlview?pli=1 We’d also recommend visiting the Oregon Coast (e.g. Cannon Beach), Mt. Hood and Seattle, which is accessible by Amtrak Train (3.5 hours) or car (2.5 hours).
As we are both traveling internationally, we have limited capacity to bring physical gifts back to Germany. Aligned with the Vietnamese Wedding Traditions, we would happily accept money. Gifts will be collected as James and Lena visit individual tables during the reception. We have also put a small registry together designed with items which could be directly send to our home in Germany. This registry can now be found on our website. Of course, the biggest gift to us is your presence!
We hope to get to spend some time with you! You can find info about some informal events in "Wedding Week Activities" on this website.
Generally, it would be best to stay in the East side of Portland. More specifically, between the Willamette River and I-205 highway. James’ parents house is in North Portland near Peninsula Park. The reception is in SE Portland. Between those places would probably be the best bet. We have prepared a list of possible places to stay, including AirBnbs and a cool hostel. Please feel free to reach out to Lena, James or Jill (James' Sister) if you'd like it.