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July 22, 2023
Barberstown Castle, Straffan, Co. Kildare, Ireland

Kara & Kieran

    Welcome
    FAQs

FAQs

Question

Why Ireland!?!

Answer

As an international couple with friends and family all over the globe, it was hard to pick a location for the wedding! Since we currently live in the US, it brought a sense of balance to have our wedding in Ireland, and it makes for a wonderful vacation destination as well. We hope our abroad guests will love Ireland as much as we do!

Question

What will the weather be like in July?

Answer

The forecast is looking cool and damp for the coming weeks. Pack layers and an umbrella! July is traditionally Ireland's warmest month of the year, with comfortable days and cool nights. Daytime high temperatures tend to be around 19 C (66-67 F) and rarely fall above 23 C (about 73 F) or below 15 C (about 59 F). That being said, Ireland doesn't have a reliable "dry season" and we recommend that guests come ready for sunshine or rain during their travels and also come prepared with layer options in the event of cooler weather.

Question

What should I wear to the Welcome Party? What is smart casual attire?

Answer

Smart Casual Attire is less formal than what you’d wear to a traditional office, but more formal than your everyday clothes. Think; button-downs/blouses or polos, polished jeans/shorts or dress pants, dresses and comfortable shoes. The reception is being held in a mix of indoor and outdoor space so dress for the weather!

Question

What should I wear to the Wedding Ceremony, Reception & Banquet? What is black tie optional?

Answer

Black-Tie Optional: Tuxes and gowns are welcome, and so are suits and cocktail dresses. Shoes: There will be some light walking and lots of dancing late into the night! We recommend wearing comfortable shoes or bringing a change of shoes to dance the night away in! Avoid stilettos as the ceremony may be on grass (weather permitting).

Question

What is the shuttle schedule?

Answer

The Court Yard Hotel will have a pick up/drop off shuttle service both Friday and Saturday. The Westgrove Hotel will have a shuttle Friday evening only. Friday July 21st 5PM: Court Yard Hotel Pick Up 5:30PM: Westgrove Hotel Pick Up -- 9:30PM: Court Yard Hotel Departure 10:00PM: Westgrove Hotel Departure Saturday July 22nd 1:30PM: Court Yard Hotel Pick Up - 12:30AM: Court Yard Hotel Departure Details: The vehicle is a white Ford 14 seater van with the logo 'O'Connor Taxi' on the front and back. Westgrove pick up will be in the front of the building's parking lot area. Court Yard pick up will be in the back entrance's parking lot area. Note: Guests of the Court Yard Friday night will be arriving slightly before the event 'officially' starts. The Pub will be open, but it's also a great opportunity to explore the Hotel, Castle and Gardens! Note: If you have not expressed interest in the Court Yard shuttle there is no guaranteed space available for the Saturday pick up to Barberstown Castle.

Question

I will be traveling to Ireland and am not an Irish citizen. What documentation do I require?

Answer

American citizens may travel to Ireland on a tourist visa, and there is no need to apply in advance (just show up at the airport!). Citizens of other countries should check their country's Irish Embassy website for specific requirements, as additional documentation could likely be required. As of now, Ireland has waived it's proof of COVID vaccination requirement to enter.

Question

Are fascinators common for women at Irish weddings? What is a fascinator? Do I have to wear one?

Answer

A fascinator is a headpiece that is often worn by women at weddings and other events in the U.K. and Ireland. It's an alternative to a hat and usually consists of a large decorative design attached to a band or clip. Traditionally you'd keep your fascinator or small hat on indoors and wear it for most or all of the evening. While it is not required to wear a headpiece to our wedding, it can be a lot of fun and we say go for it!

Question

Is this an adults-only wedding?

Answer

As much as we'd love to have all children share in this special moment, we respectfully ask that outside of the wedding party, no children under the age of 12 attend. If you require childcare, please contact Barberstown Castle for local recommendations.

Question

Are Irish weddings similar to ones in the US? How long do Irish weddings last?

Answer

Unlike the US, Irish weddings are marathons, not sprints! There are a few unique cultural and fashion differences as well. For more insight on Irish weddings see the link below: https://www.myirishjeweler.com/blog/5-tips-for-surviving-irish-weddings/

Question

Are your ceremony, reception and banquet all held at the same location?

Answer

Yes. Each element of our wedding will be held at Barberstown Castle so there is no need to travel between locations. We recommend all out-of-town guests stay at Barberstown Castle or our shuttle-service hotels the night before and night of the wedding for convenience.

Question

Will food be served?

Answer

There will be scones and canapés during the reception and a full dinner at the banquet. There will also be a late-night buffet to keep the party going!

Question

Will there be any vegan/vegetarian/gluten free/special diet options?

Answer

If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know when you RSVP so we can let our venue know ahead of time.

Question

I live locally. Can I drive to the wedding venue?

Answer

You can and there is ample parking onsite.

Question

I won't be staying at Barberstown Castle, the Westgrove or the Court Yard. How should I get home at the end of the night?

Answer

We have been advised that it can be difficult to get a taxi from Barberstown Castle very late at night or in the early morning hours. Because of this, we strongly recommend staying on property or at our shuttle-service hotels. Those who chose to not stay at the recommended hotels should arrange transportation in advance to avoid being stranded!

Question

Are there any local hair & make up salons close to Barberstown Castle?

Answer

The Hair Bar, Serenity Hair & Beauty, Tangles Hair Salon and Kalon Beauty are all local to the area and come recommended by our Wedding Planner. Booking is advisable 2 or 3 weeks in advance.

Question

What is our mailing address?

Answer

Come May 13th our mailing address will be the following; 1530 Beacon Street Apartment 501 Boston, MA 02446 USA

Question

I still have questions, what is the best way to contact you?

Answer

The best way to reach us is via email at kieran.kararose@gmail.com. Alternatively please call or text (+1) 508-801-9303 via SMS or What's App. We will continue to update this page as we approach the wedding.

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