FAQs

Question

Can I bring my kids?

Answer

Due to the capacity of the venue, we are only able to accommodate family (immediate and extended) children. We wanted to be able to invite all the amazing adults in our lives, and although we love your children and would love to see them, we also want parents to have a night off and enjoy themselves. If you would still like to bring children and need childcare, reach out for suggestions or there are many options on care.com.

Question

What is the closest airport?

Answer

Chicago-Midway is 50 miles from Porter, and Chicago-O'Hare is 70, though timewise it is about the same, though in times of high traffic, it's a toss up! Indianapolis airport is 160 miles from Porter

Question

Where or What even is this place??

Answer

Welcome to Northwest Indiana! Considered part of Chicagoland area, Porter/Chesterton is a city within what is considered the ‘Duneland’ of Indiana. About an hour drive to downtown Chicago, nestled in the Indiana Dunes and next to Lake Michigan. Susan is originally from Valparaiso, IN, also the hometown of Orville Redenbacher, and home to Valparaiso University. David is enamored by how many cities population 10,000-40,000 there are right next to each other in this area of Indiana.

Question

What is the Speakeasy at the Spa?

Answer

The Speakeasy at the Spa and Special Events Center is on the banks of the Calumet River and is said to have been visited by Al Capone. An original Speakeasy during Prohibition times, alcohol was transported up River. The Speakeasy was at one point the "Spa Restaurant," then closed for some time, reopened, and is now owned by Pizzeria Uno. The facade of the bar is a "Barber Shop", password: "Big Al Sent Me." It is home to a 90-year old antique horseshoe bar from a Chicago saloon, has tin ceilings, and a Seeburg juke box.

Question

Where should I stay?

Answer

The Springhouse Inn is literally right next door on Mineral Springs, and is a cozy, rustic hotel with about 50 rooms. We have a block of rooms reserved under Mantel-Moran if you choose to stay there. Also listed in the Travel section is The Dunes Walk Inn at the Furness Mansion - just 5 rooms there, but a good option for families of more than 4 who want to stay together.

Question

What do I need to see while I am here?

Answer

If you haven't ever been to the Indiana Dunes, you need to see them. Several beaches are listed in the Things to Do section. Downtown Chicago is not too far away, so a visit to Chicago to see some touristy things would not be hard to do while in town!

Question

What is the attire for the reception?

Answer

Roaring 20's baby! If you so choose. David and I love a good theme/dress-up party (as can be seen in our Gallery Photo selection), so we thought this would be fun, but you do you, and don't feel obligated.

Question

What will the food and drink options be?

Answer

Catered buffet and open bar at the reception.