FAQs

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We know this is a big trip with a lot of logistics

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We hope we are able to anticipate and answer most of your questions here.

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Adults only

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We are limited in the number of guests, so aside from family, we are currently asking for adults only to RSVP at this point.

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RSVP

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We are asking all our guests to please RSVP no later than March 15, 2025.

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Italy in July

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Here is an article about visiting Italy in July. https://mamalovesitaly.com/italy-in-july/

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Airports

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Florence 55 min/ 50 km Pisa 1 hr 40 min/ 116 km Bologna 1 hr 40 min/ 130 km

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Arrival/Departure

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Arrive to Florence, Italy on or before July 25th by 1:00 p.m. Transportation will start at 1:30pm We are currently working on providing transportation from Florence to the castle. We will be staying at the castle on the 25th, 26th and 27th and deparatures on the 28th no later than 11:00am. Friday July, 25th -4:00 pm checkin at Castello di Ristonich please do not arrive to the castle early, you will not be able to check in and we may be assessed a fee for your early arrival. Saturday July, 26th - Celebration ceremony and dinner Sunday July, 27th - Chill day, pool party and Bbq Monday July, 28 - Breakfast & 11:00pm goodbyes and departure

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Transportation to and from Castillo di Ristonchi

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There will be a shuttle picking us up at the Florence Airport on check-in day (7/25) and back to Florence airport after check-out (7/28). Easily accessible for all your guests – There is a tram from Santa Maria Novella train station that goes directly to the airport for only 2€, making it an easy transfer for anyone arriving by train. A taxi is also quick and inexpensive Pick up location: Florence Airport to Castello What: shuttle from airport to castle When: Friday (7/25) Exact location at airport: TBD Arrival Time Start arriving to the airport by 1:00 pm in order to take advantage of the shuttle. First Shuttle leaves: 1:30 pm Second Shuttle leaves: 2:00 pm Third Shuttle leaves: 4:00 pm Departure from Castello di Ristonchi to Florence Airport When: Monday (7/28) First Shuttle leaves: 7:30 am Second Shuttle leaves: 11:00 am

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Recommendations for your own Transportation

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To arrange transportation for you and your guests, our suggested contact is: Name: Patrick Ristori Email info.peopleof@gmail.com WhatsApp: +39 335 6399626 Name: Fabrizio at Tasting Tuscany Road Contact Info: Cel: +39 339 329 1522 E-MAIL: tastingtuscanyroads@gmail.com Whatsapp is a great way to communicate with him, and he speaks English well. Another option - usually less expensive: Name: Fabbri Bus Via E.Bazzi, 1 -50062 Dicomano - FLORENCE - ITALY Contact Info: CEL: +39 335 285320 TEL / FAX. +39 055 8319680 +39 055 838377 E-MAIL: info@fabbribus.it Website: http://www.fabbribus.it/ Examples of rates: Up to 7 People MINIVAN RATE: € 230 one way Up to 20 People MINIBUS RATE: € 300 one way *If customers pay by credit card to the driver, 10% VAT must be added Taxi: http://www.4390.it/

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HOW DOES A CASTLE STAY WORK?

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We have exclusively reserved Castello di Ristonchi for our vow renewal weekend, which means all of our guests are able to stay together in one place. As a reminder, the castle is a 1,000 year old, rustic medieval building, not luxurious but oozing of charm and a step back in time. Oh, and no AC, but there will be a pool and plenty of wine to go around! For our guests staying in the castle, We are asking our guests to pay a one-time reservation fee of $300 per person. Regardless of whether you stay in the castle or find your own accommodations, all events, meals, and activities listed on the “Party” page are included as part of our celebration. With regards to accommodations, some groups may be asked to stay together in apartments if flexible - but don't worry, if necessary, we will be in touch. Castello di Ristonchi consists of studio to 2-bedroom apartments. Each apartment has it's own private bathroom and kitchen. Some apartments in the tower have lots of stairs but the best views.

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Learn more about your stay at the Castle form the owners

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"We are so excited to welcome you to our stunning venue, Castello di Ristonchi in Tuscany, Italy! Ristonchi Castle is a rustic, 1,000-year-old medieval castle surrounded by olive groves and a forest of chestnut trees and wild edibles.  It's not a regular hotel - it's a CASTLE! There won't be daily cleanings, but all of the basics will be provided for you, such as clean sheets, towels, pillows, blankets, toilet paper, soap and shampoo.  The furnishings are typical Tuscan style, and some of the bathrooms are small and quirky, but that's the fun of staying in an old castle. When you wake up you know you are in Tuscany!  There is heating in winter, but no air conditioning in summer. The thick stone walls and fresh mountain breeze should keep you comfortable, or there is a fresh mountain spring water pool that will definitely do the trick!  There are limited paid laundry services as well as a steamer service for your wedding attire. There is a bar and small shop where you can buy coffee, drinks, ice cream and snacks. The castle is secluded so please bring everything special (like medication) you'll need for the weekend with you. Here's a packing list to help get you started:" https://www.ristonchi.com/packing-list

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Dress Code suggestions for the ceremony

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DRESS CODE SUGGESTIONS For the Ceremony - Semi-formal cocktail attire. - Light colors and fabrics: Choose lighter colors like pastels, beige, or light grey and breathable fabrics. - Comfortable footwear: Consider wedge sandals or low heels for women, and loafer or dress shoes for men

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Friday, July 25th - Welcome Pizza and Wine Party with a Mexican Twist

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Join us as we kick off the weekend with wood-fired pizza, Tuscan wine, and a night under the stars with a twist. To celebrate our Mexican roots! We’d love for you to come dressed in black with colorful embroidered details or traditional Mexican-inspired attire — like floral dresses or guayaberas for the gentlemen. Think vibrant, joyful, and relaxed. Don’t stress — this can be as simple as a colorful or floral scarf, embroidered top, or a bold accessory to bring color, joy, and honoring the culture that raised us to embrace a touch of Mexican magic. Think “Frida meets Florence!” Let’s make this night vibrant, meaningful, and full of love (and good wine, of course!). Really we just like this to feel festive, so feel free to add a pop of color — floral embroidery, bright shawls, or even just a floral pin or headband. We can’t wait to see your creativity and spend time with you all!

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Rave Cave!

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After the ceremony, and dinner, we’re turning up the energy and getting ready to party in the iconic Rave Cave! If you’d like to make a wardrobe change before the after-party, bring something fun and rave-ready: think neon, metallics, sequins, glow sticks, light-up accessories, or just your comfiest dance outfit. Whether you throw on some sparkle or just trade heels for sneakers and add a glow bracelet, come party with us! Music will be going strong until 2:30 a.m., so feel free to pop in, dance a little (or a lot), and party the night away.

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Staying outside the Property

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We would love for all our guests to stay with us on the property! However, if you prefer to stay elsewhere, we’d be happy to assist in arranging a rental for you. Pricing will depend on the alternative location. Nearby Hotels, Villas, Airbnbs *VILLA GRASSINA:* 5 mins by car or 20 mins walk. www.villagrassina.it *VILLA CERTINA:* 2 mins by car or 9 mins walk. https://www.vrbo.com/it-it/affitto-vacanze/p2160289?arrival=2023-05-19&departure=2023-05-22&uni_id=2287272 *FLORENCE HILLS RESORT & SPA: 10 mins by car* https://www.theflorencehills.it/en/ OTHER: https://www.airbnb.it/rooms/34694916?adults=1&category_tag=Tag%3A8536&children=0&infants=0&search_mode=flex_destinations_search&check_in=2023-04-10&check_out=2023-04-15&previous_page_section_name=1001&federated_search_id=6cfc44f4-1f41-4181-9fcc-9dea44c3c290 https://www.vrbo.com/it-it/affitto-vacanze/p8743695?noDates=true&uni_id=4806508 https://www.vrbo.com/it-it/affitto-vacanze/p1786983?arrival=2023-04-06&departure=2023-04-09&uni_id=3498648

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Iron during your stay

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We will set up an ironing station for anyone needing to iron their clothes during their stay. There are no laundry facilities onsite.

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Hair and Makeup recommended contact

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Name: Valeriya Website: hthttps://valeriyabeauty.com/ Name: Leva Bogdoanova Website: www.miaceline.co.uk Ievasmakeup@gmail.com

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No extended checkout

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Everyone is to be checkout by 11:00am.

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Other things to Pack

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OTHER THINGS TO PACK - Italian adapters and converters (3 prongs) Ceremony attire Semi-formal cocktail (ceremony and dinner will be on grass, high heels not recommended) - Swimming suit - for our poolside party/bbq - Sunscreen - Sunglasses - Sandals and slippers - Toothpaste and toothbrush - Hairdryer/Straightener/Curling Iron (don’t forget a converter!) - Hair, skin and makeup products - Mosquito repellant and after bite cream - Copies of your passport - Medical information and medication list - Medication for allergies (bee stings) - Small first aid kit - Small sewing kit, (for last minute issues) - Comfortable shoes (if you plan on walking or hiking) - Sweater/Light Jacket/Wrap (please be sure to check the weather) - Camera/Cell Phone/Memory Card (don't want to miss the beautiful moments) - Euros and credit cards

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Dietary Restrictions and Allergies

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The venue and chef are happy to accommodate gluten free, dairy free, vegetarians, vegans and guests with allergies. However for dessert/cake there is not substitution. Halal and kosher guests can also be accommodated, just please inform us in advance so the kitchen can prepare in advance. They cannot cater to special diets such as Keto or Whole30 diets as their menu is designed around traditional Tuscan cuisine and the use of high quality fresh ingredients. Their chefs are committed to creating delicious dishes that showcase the authentic flavors of Tuscany, and it is encourage for everyone to embrace this culinary experience. We will know in more detail our menu but it will be very similar to what they have on their website. I will include a sample menu here in the FAQ to help give you an idea of what would be served.

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Sample Menus

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Brunch Buffet Scrambled Eggs, Sausages, Croissants, Fresh Bread with Local Jams and their own Honey, Cheese Boards, Chia Seed Pudding (vegan) or Yogurt with Fruit, Fruit Bowl. Beverage: Coffee, Juice and Still Water. Breakfast Buffet Fresh Bread with Local Jams and Honey, Cheese Boards, Yogurt, Muesli. Sample 4 Course Dinner Menu APERITIVO Assorted local cold cuts: Salami, prosciutto and more, served with homemade bread Prosciutto and melon salad Caprese platter with buffalo mozzarella, tomatoes and basil Trio of vegetarian bruschetta: Classic tomato and basil, Sautè zucchini and mint, Scamorza cheese and truffle oil Selection of cheeses: Parmigiano, pecorino and more, served with Ristonchi honey and homemade marmalade. PRIMI/FIRST (choose 2) Tortelli stuffed with potatoes and parmesan, served with traditional Bolognese sauce Farfalle pasta with prawns, zucchini cream and basil Vegetarian Option: Farfalle pasta, zucchini cream, sun dried tomato, basil Vegetarian Option: Ravioli with browned butter and sage SECONDI/MAIN (choose 2) Grilled chicken, lemon and garlic marinated Beef striploin “Tagliata Style” Italian Pork Roast Vegetarian: Barley salad with cannellini beans, arugula, grilled halloumi and pomegranate seeds Vegetarian: Baked tomino cheese with Ristonchi honey and walnuts Vegan: Caponata with hummus SIDES (choose 2) Roasted potatoes Vegetable caponata Mixed summer salad Arugula and shaved parmesan DESSERTS Millefoiglie cake If you have any questions about the menu or ingredients please don’t hesitate to ask.

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WIFI at the castle

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YES! The Castle's updated network consist of 6 ubiquity AP and delivers speed of 30/3Mb. There is wifi in the common areas and outside as well as in the Castello/Tower apartments. The Fattoria and Borghetto apartments have very thick stone walls and do not reach the wifi.

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Babysitting services

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Consuelo Contact her via Whatsapp +39 339 454 3403

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Alcohol and Snacks

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- Red and White wine is included at the Welcome Pizza & Wine Party - Unlimited Red and White wine is included at the Reception Dinner - Rave/After Party - 4 hours open bar * The Ristonchi Reception Bar will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Guests can purchase beer, wine, soda, water, ice cream, and snacks. The venue also has an ApeRoller - fully mobile bar that will be at the pool, pizza night, BBQ, aperitivo and wedding dinner for guests' convenience. Any drinks or cocktails can be ordered there at any time. All items will be added to guest's individual room bill to be paid at check out.

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Air Conditioning

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No The castle stays cool https://www.accuweather.com/en/it/pelago/1548049/weather-forecast/1548049

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Pool

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The outdoor pool is filled with fresh mountain spring water and surrounded by nature. Take in the smell of lavender and the view of the valley spotted with olive trees while you relax on the warm stone. The pool is gated for safety. No lifeguard on duty.

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Hiking & Biking Trails

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Beautiful and interesting trails surround the castello. Ristonchi Castle is on top of a mountain surrounded by olive groves and an ancient forest with over 20km of marked paths for walking and cycling.

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More to Come

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As we get closer to the date, we will be updating the FAQ's to help answer any questions you may have.