FAQs

Question

What the heck does "Maine formal" mean?

Answer

This is our dress code! Perhaps you've heard of the Canadian Tuxedo? While we're not encouraging jean suits, we are definitely encouraging comfort. Avoid a jeans-and-sneakers combo, but dark wash jeans, flannel, and Bean Boots are absolutely acceptable. :) Our ceremony will be outdoors on grass, and guests will be standing. (We will have limited chairs provided for those who are not able to stand for an extended period.) Heels are not recommended, though you can probably get away with wedges. Ladies, this time of year in Maine is great for a sleeved dress and tights. Overall, October weather in Maine is very unpredictable. The average for this day is about 55 degrees F, but could be as high as 65 or as low as 45. (We typically don't get snow until November, knock on wood!) Check the weather forecast that week when you're packing - you can check Cape Elizabeth or Portland weather for the ceremony. The reception is indoors and there will be time in between to change, if you want to.

Question

Can I bring my kid(s)?

Answer

Kids are more than welcome to attend both the ceremony and reception. Your family is our family!

Question

When should I RSVP?

Answer

As soon as possible, of course, but please reply by August 31. You can RSVP right on this site or by mailing in the postcard you received with your invitation.

Question

Can I bring a date?

Answer

Only those names listed on the invitation can attend.

Question

Is there an open bar?

Answer

There will be 4 beers and 4 wines available for free - any other drinks will be available for purchase.

Question

Is there parking for the ceremony and reception?

Answer

There is parking at the ceremony. There is a free lot about a 7 minute walk (fairly hilly) from the ceremony location, or there is paid parking closer for $4. Those with handicap parking permits can park for free in the paid lots. For the reception, there are paid parking lots in Biddeford and limited free on-street parking (including neighborhood parking a little farther away), but we highly recommend carpooling or a ride share like Lyft to get to the venue. If you have any concerns about getting there, please let us know! We also set up a carpool website at bit.ly/jacarpool - you can enter your available car space if you're driving or sign up for a ride!

Question

What time should I arrive?

Answer

Please arrive to the ceremony location by 1:45pm, though we encourage you to get there earlier to explore! Fort Williams Park is absolutely beautiful - with gardens, historic fort and battery buildings, and of course, the classic rocky Maine coastline. If you will be using the free lot, arrive by 1:35pm to have time to walk to the ceremony location.

Question

Are the ceremony and reception accessible?

Answer

There is a bit of a walk from the closest paid lot to the ceremony, so please let us know if you have any mobility issues. We can provide an informal valet so you can be dropped off at the ceremony location. The ceremony is on grass, but there is a pathway that leads to it. There is no parking immediately adjacent to the reception, so plan to walk. Again, if you have any mobility issues, please let us know so we can help get you there.

Question

What about food for dietary restrictions?

Answer

Dinner will be largely build-your-own, so there should be options for most dietary needs.