FAQs
Question
COVID-19 restrictions?
Answer
We would like for our guests to test negative for COVID-19 on the day of the wedding, if possible. While many of us are vaccinated and healthy enough to withstand a serious illness, we must continue to protect elderly and immunocompromised citizens. Eight (8) free tests can be ordered via USPS right now. https://special.usps.com/testkits
Question
Where is the venue?
Answer
FREE PARKING! The whole event will be held in the tropical conservatory of the Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens. From I-235 in Des Moines, follow the signs for the Garden even when they seem to go the wrong way. They will direct you south onto E 6th Street, then west on Des Moines Street, and finally north on Robert D. Ray Drive. This follows the Des Moines River, passes back underneath I-235, and ends at the Botanical Garden's parking lot.
Question
Can I bring a date?
Answer
If your significant other or spouse has not been invited, we probably didn't have their email address, but we assume they will come with you! If you are single, you can bring a plus one, though we appreciate a heads up. Just send us an email with any questions.
Question
Should I bring food?
Answer
No, dinner will be provided by Gateway Market and dessert will be baked by Costco Bakery. Please see the Schedule page for more info. Note that no alcohol will be served. Check out the Things To Do tab for nearby bars and restaurants. We encourage guests to check out the bars before and/or after the wedding!
Question
Should I bring a gift?
Answer
Your presence is the most important thing to us. If you would like to provide a gift, visit the Registry page! Our registry consists of optional donations to our hopes and dreams. Totally optional!
Question
Will there be drinks?
Answer
There will be NO alcohol at the wedding. However, we do encourage guests to check out the local bars and restaurants around the downtown before and/or after the wedding. Note that downtown parking meters turn off at 9:00pm.
Question
Will there be kids?
Answer
If you are planning to have your young children accompany you, please contact Erika or Marshall to let them know. We will work with you on food and other accommodations.
Question
Will it be hot?
Answer
YES. July is extremely hot and humid in Iowa, so pack shorts. The Botanical Garden's tropical conservatory will be very warm with fans blowing, though some parts of the building will be air conditioned. Please wear comfortable, cool summer clothes. Feel free to wear sandals, skirts, and shorts! If you wear a tux, that is on you, friend.
Question
When can I leave?
Answer
This wedding will be short and sweet and will probably finish up before 10:00pm. Guests are free to leave when they are ready to, whether they plan to drive home, go to a bar, or hang out at our house.
Question
What is there to do in Iowa?
Answer
Check out the Things To Do page for activities you can find around the Des Moines area, along with searching online for breweries, stores, and restaurants. Iowa is a huge craft brewery state, so don't miss out! For those of you driving from the east, look out for cool cities and attractions along I-80. There also lots of state parks like Ledges, Maquoketa Caves, Backbone, and Pike's Peak.
Question
Aren't they married already?
Answer
Yes, we got married in the summer of 2020. The pandemic forced us to postpone a trip to Japan as well as our wedding celebration, so we went to the courthouse. Seeing as we have already set up a household, we do not expect gifts or money. Your presence at the party is the most important thing to us!!
Question
How do you pronounce 'Des Moines'?
Answer
The locals call it "Deh-Moy-N" because it is French. Basically, just drop the S's.