What time should I arrive at the ceremony? The ceremony will begin promptly at 6:00pm. We ask that all guests arrive no later than 5:30pm so you can get settled before the proceedings. We suggest you come even earlier so you can grab a drink at the iconic Round Robin Bar (try the Mint Julip) and check out the history gallery, as the Willard is full of incredible history (see last FAQ question).
What is the dress code? We'd love to see our family and friends get dressed up for our big day! Our dress code is black tie: men in tuxedos and women in formal long gowns.
Will it be indoors or outdoors? The ceremony and reception will take place indoors. The cocktail hour will take place outdoors, weather permitting.
Can I bring a plus one? We are truly delighted that you'll be joining us to celebrate our special day! If you received a plus one, your guest's name is listed on your invitation and will appear under your name when you RSVP. We kindly request that only those specifically named on the invitation attend. While we'd love to extend the invitation to include everyone's plus ones, we hope you understand that we have limited space available.
Are children allowed? As much as we'd love to invite all our friends' little ones, we can only accommodate a few close family children. We hope that you will understand this decision and that you will still be able to join us on our special day.
Is there parking at the Willard? There is valet parking available for a fee.
By when do I need to RSVP? Please RSVP no later than April 24, 2025. Thank you!
What is the history of the Willard? The rich history of the Willard is one of the main reasons we chose to get married there over Memorial Day Weekend. Even better, while staying at the Willard, General John A. Logan issued Memorial Day as a national holiday! Several presidents lived in the Willard for some time, including Abraham Lincoln and Calvin Coolidge. It was in the Willard lobby that Ulysses S. Grant popularized the term "lobbyist" and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. finalized his famous "I Have a Dream" speech just hours before delivering it on the nearby steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Learn more about the Willard history here: https://washington.intercontinental.com/history/