FAQs
Question
Where are the ceremony and reception?
Answer
Our ceremony will be at the Secrest Arboretum - The John Streeter Garden Amphitheater, and our reception will be at The Chalet at Freelander Park both in Wooster, Ohio. They’re about 10 minutes apart, so please allow time for travel between the two.
Question
What’s the dress code?
Answer
We’re going for garden party attire—think semi-dressy but relaxed. Dresses, skirts, dress pants, or jumpsuits are all great. Please no jeans. We recommend comfortable walking shoes or wedges since we’ll be on grass and walking paths.
Question
What if it rains?
Answer
A few raindrops might just add to the romance! Unless there’s dangerous weather or a significant thunderstorm around ceremony time, the plan is to keep the ceremony outdoors at Secrest. Either the Bride or the Groom will text everyone the day of if we need to move the ceremony into the reception hall at Freedlander park.
Question
What time should I arrive?
Answer
Please plan to arrive 20-25 minutes before the ceremony start time to find your seat and settle in. The ceremony will start promptly at 4:15pm. Majority of the available parking is at the Welcome Center. This is about 1000 ft or 0.2 mile walk. Please plan accordingly.
Question
Is there a schedule for the evening?
Answer
3:45 PM – Guests to begin arriving 4:15 PM – Ceremony begins 4:45 PM – Ceremony concludes 5:30 PM - Explore gardens and make way to The Chalet at Freelander Park (Popcorn Bar!) 6:00 PM – Grand entrance at reception 6:20 PM – Dinner served 7:20 PM – Cake cutting 7:30 PM – Open dancing 9:45 PM – Reception ends
Question
Are kids invited?
Answer
We love your little ones, but our wedding will be mostly child-free (with the exception of immediate family). We hope you enjoy a night out to celebrate with us! If finding child care would prevent you from coming, please reach out to the bride and groom to see if we can make other arrangements.
Question
Am I able to explore the gardens at Secrest?
Answer
Yes, it is a free public space. Please explore the gardens before or after the ceremony . We ask that guests are seated in the Garden Amphitheater at least 15 minutes prior to the start time. On site, there is a large garden slide, cone flower garden, water garden, and large beautiful Dawn Redwood trees.
Question
Will food and drinks be served?
Answer
Absolutely! We’ll have be catering Chipotle, a favorite of the Bride and Groom! There will also be drinks and cake to keep you fueled for dancing. The couple will be providing beer, wine, and seltzers. If you would like to bring something else to enjoy please feel free!
Question
How do I rsvp? When should I rsvp by?
Answer
To RSVP, click the RSVP tab and type the name(s) listed on your envelope. Kindly, RSVP by April 25th, 2026. We will be anxiously waiting for your response and look forward to celebrating with you!
Question
Is the event formal?
Answer
Not at all—it’s a celebration, not a gala! Think festive and comfortable rather than black tie.
Question
Who can I contact if I have questions?
Answer
If you have any questions about the wedding day, please reach out to Melanie at 330-703-4519 or Joshua at 330-208-8100.
Question
Can I bring a date?
Answer
We'd love to include everyone, but due to limited space, only the guests who received a plus one on their invitation can bring a guest. Thank you for understanding!
Question
I have a food allergy/ dietary restriction. Can I make a special request?
Answer
Absolutely - please reach out to the bride or groom with any allergy - related concerns/ requests so we can let the venue know to make accommodations!