FAQs

Question

What is the RSVP deadline?

Answer

Please RSVP on this website by April 30, 2026.

Question

Is there a dress code?

Answer

Summer semi formal will be perfect! Everything is outdoors- the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception. There is access to the first floor of Krippendorf Lodge which is air conditioned. This is where we will have dessert set up, decor, pictures, and the restrooms are in the house as well, but you’ll be spending the majority of your time outside. We recommend lightweight fabrics, flowy dresses, sundresses, lightweight khakis/chinos or linen pants, golf shirts, button-down polos, dressy sandals, wedges, and loafers. We encourage bright colors, floral patterns, fun designs! Blazers and ties are optional. But please refrain from wearing denim, shorts, or flip-flops.

Question

What time should I arrive?

Answer

Guests can begin arriving at 4:00 PM. The ceremony will begin promptly at 4:30. Please take into consideration travel time (especially on I-275 on a Friday afternoon), stopping at the gatehouse once you enter Rowe Woods, and getting to the parking lot from there.

Question

Is everything in one place?

Answer

Yes! Our ceremony will take place on the beautiful stone patio at the back of Krippendorf Lodge. Once the ceremony is over the stone patio will be off limits during cocktail hour so the ceremony site can be flipped for the reception. The open bar will be located on the side porch near the entrance. You will have access to the entire wrap around porch, the wooded areas immediately surrounding the house, and the inside of the house during cocktail hour. Finger foods will be served.

Question

Will I have to pay the entrance fee?

Answer

No, you will not pay the entrance fee. When you enter Rowe Woods and come to the gatehouses let them know you are attending the Smith/Thomas wedding at Krippendorf Lodge and you will be waved on in.

Question

Does Krippendorf Lodge have its own parking lot?

Answer

There are two small parking lots you can park in once you turn onto Krippendorf Dr. But, please keep in mind the woods are open to the public that day and so are those parking lots. It is recommended to carpool if possible.

Question

Will Rowe Woods still be open to the public?

Answer

Yes, Rowe Woods will be open to the public during our wedding and reception. Be aware there will be people on the hiking trails in close proximity to Krippendorf Lodge as well as using the two parking lots we have access to. We will have a security officer on the grounds with us during our time there.

Question

Are there designated areas to smoke cigars?

Answer

Yes, there will be designated areas to smoke. With it being a forest, they strictly enforce the areas where smoking is and is not allowed. We will also have a security officer on the grounds with us who will be enforcing this as well.

Question

Since we're going to be outside in a forest, will we need bug spray?

Answer

It is a possibility you might need bug spray. Bug spray will be available to you in the restroom. It is the Nature Center's policy that bug spray be sprayed in the restrooms only. We will make sure there is plenty!