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FAQs

Question

When Do I need to RSVP By?

Answer

Please RSVP by August 15th, 2026

Question

When and where is the wedding?

Answer

Our wedding will take place at the Valora Oak Estate on Saturday, October 3rd, 2026. The address is 3406 Stagecoach Road, Durham, NC 27713. The ceremony will begin promptly at 4pm, followed by the reception at the same location.

Question

What are the wedding colors?

Answer

Black and white with accents of burgundy and gold.

Question

What should I wear?

Answer

Our dress code is semi-formal. Cocktail dresses, jumpsuits, or dressy separates are perfect for women, while men can wear dress shirts, slacks, or suits. You’re welcome to wear outfits that include black, but please avoid all-black dresses or full black outfits, since the bridal party will be in black. Also, kindly avoid white or ivory, as those shades are reserved for the bride. Thank you for helping us keep the look and photos cohesive!

Question

Is the event inside or outside?

Answer

We are planning for an outside event.

Question

What is the weather like in early October in Durham?

Answer

Early October in North Carolina is typically mild and comfortable, with highs in the 70s and cool evenings. We recommend bringing a light layer for later in the night.

Question

What time should I arrive?

Answer

Please plan to arrive 15–20 minutes early to find your seat and settle in before the ceremony begins.

Question

Are the ceremony and reception at the same place?

Answer

Yes! Both the ceremony and reception will be held at the same venue, so guests won’t need to travel between locations.

Question

Will there be parking?

Answer

Yes, If you are staying at the hotel, there will be on site parking available for guests who choose to drive. If you are staying at the estate and you require parking there, please let Mikayla or Mitchell know in advance.

Question

Will transportation be provided?

Answer

Yes! We’ll have a complimentary shuttle service running between the hotel and the wedding venue before and after the celebration. Details and departure times will be shared closer to the date so everyone can plan accordingly.

Question

Can I drive my car from the hotel to the venue on the day of the wedding?

Answer

No. This is a huge liability for the venue.

Question

Can I bring a plus one?

Answer

If your invitation includes a guest’s name or says “and guest,” then yes! Otherwise, we’re keeping the guest list intimate and appreciate your understanding.

Question

Are kids welcome?

Answer

Yes! Children are welcome to join us in celebrating our special day. Please note that the venue has an unfenced pond near the event building, so we kindly ask that parents keep a close eye on their little ones throughout the evening.

Question

Will there be dancing/other activities?

Answer

Absolutely! We’ll have plenty of time for dancing and fun throughout the evening — just note that the music will wrap up around 10:00 PM. During cocktail hour and throughout the reception, guests can enjoy a few lawn games as well.

Question

Can we take photos during the ceremony?

Answer

We kindly ask for an unplugged ceremony so everyone can be fully present. Afterward, please take as many photos as you’d like during the reception.

Question

Seating?

Answer

There will be open seating at the ceremony. The first few rows will be reserved for immediate family. Guests will need to bring their chair from the ceremony to the reception. There will be people assigned to help those that need it. This helps us keep everything organized and ensures everyone has a seat for dinner and dancing. Thank you for helping us make the day flow smoothly!

Question

Will there be food and drinks during the reception?

Answer

Yes! We’ll be serving a delicious meal during the reception along with a cocktail hour prior to the reception — final menu details are coming soon. There will be a vegetarian option available. Drinks will be available while supplies last, and guests are also welcome to bring their own beverages if they’d like. For drinks, we’ll have: 🍺 Two half kegs of beer (Red Oak & more info to come) 🍷 Wine 🍹 A signature cocktail 🥂 A refreshing mocktail 🧃 Water and soda

Question

Gift Registry?

Answer

We’re so grateful for your love and support as we celebrate this next chapter! We’ve created a small registry for those who prefer to give a traditional gift. If you’d like, contributions to our honeymoon fund would mean the world to us as we create unforgettable memories together. You can contribute easily through Venmo @Mikayla_12 or via Cash App to Mitchell at $MitchellSNS. Please do not bring gifts to the venue with you.

Question

Hotel Booking Details

Answer

Please book your room at either one of these hotels by August 17th, 2026. There will be a shuttle running from both these locations to and from the venue. Both hotels are located about 5 miles from the venue. The rooms are blocked off for both Friday night the 2nd and Saturday night the 3rd. Check in is 3:00pm and checkout is 11:00am. All rooms have fully equipped kitchens and separate living area, fitness center, business center, outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, complimentary parking, and complimentary Wi-Fi. To reserve your room(s), please call the hotel directly and mention the Lanoue/Wilson Wedding. If an additional cot is required for the room please let the hotel know when you call to book. Home2 Suites Durham/Chapel Hill 3305 Watkins Road| Durham, NC 27707 (919) 680-9000 Homewood Suites Durham/Chapel Hill 3600 Mt. Moriah Road | Durham, NC 27707 (919) 401-0610 Special group rate for both hotels: King One Bedroom Suite w/Sofa Bed - $149 per night plus tax **If you choose to stay at another location, there will not be a shuttle to transport you to and from the venue. You will need to Uber**

Question

Can I stay an extra night?

Answer

You will need to call the hotel and ask. It will be based on availability. Room blocks will be for the nights of the 2nd and 3rd. If you are staying at the estate, no. You will need to be checked out by 2:00pm on the 4th.