FAQs

Question

I have questions, who do I contact?

Answer

Please contact the couple directly. We do ask that you read through our FAQs section to see if your question is on there and has already been answered. If not or you would like additional clarity, please inquire only to the couple. During the day of the wedding, you may contact the maid of honor or the best man for additional questions. Thank you.

Question

Why is the wedding based in Northern California?

Answer

The couple had two options: SoCal or NorCal. With families residing in both areas, it was going to be a difficult decision. After extensive research in both areas, the couple found Hakone Estate and Gardens and fell instantly in love with it. It is beautiful, affordable location and reminded Josh of his fond memories in Kyoto, Japan. It was full of greenery, which was Emily's favorite, and had a grand, Japanese royal grounds feeling that Josh was looking for. We hope you enjoy it as much as they do! We understand that the drive for Southern California residents may be challenging and annoying--believe me, the bride and groom understand and have done that drive for 5 years (and in the pouring rain and sometimes even snow!). But they will be providing a driving guide for great places to stop for food, recommendations for cleanest restrooms, safest gas station locations (and prices), and even funny events that have happened along the way during their many travels to visit each other. We understand that this is a huge sacrifice for our SoCal/out of state guests and are very pleased to offer suggestions, options, and advice on travel and attendance.

Question

I received an "Online only" invitation, why?

Answer

There are so many people we want to celebrate with! Unfortunately, we only had a select amount of seats and being both sides have HUGE families, not everyone is able to be invited to be present. HOWEVER--we are offering online viewership and attendance! Online viewership is also being offered to invited guests who cannot attend.

Question

When should I RSVP by?

Answer

Please RSVP by September 15th, 2023. You can RSVP online or in the mail. Online you can RSVP for your entire group after submitting the name on the FORMAL invitation. If you do not RSVP by the 15th of September, you will be hunted down. Don't test them....

Question

Can I bring a plus one?

Answer

Seating is extremely limited. If you would like a plus one, please inquire to the couple. It is possible someone will not be able to attend and your plus one could take their spot. Keep in mind that there is no guarantee that a plus one will be able to be accommodated. Unless specified, only the name of the person on the FORMAL invitation is invited to attend.

Question

Are children allowed to attend?

Answer

Unfortunately, no. Hakone Estate and Gardens does not offer any child friendly areas and has many sacred grounds, koi ponds, forests and non-blocked off areas that are not child safe. The wedding takes place in the evening and is most definitely an evening style event with guests. The couple would love for and request that all adults and parents to be able to fully enjoy themselves at the wedding and reception.

Question

Is there a dress code?

Answer

Please wear formal attire and shoes that are comfortable to move in. KEEP IN MIND IT IS JANUARY. It will be very cold, but beautiful. Heaters will be provided at the reception, along with warm beverages to keep everyone cozy.

Question

Is there parking for the ceremony or reception?

Answer

Yes! Hakone Estates and Gardens offers FREE parking, but please limit your parking to cars and not RVs or Limos as they do not have enough spaces to accommodate large vehicles.

Question

I have a food allergy, can I make a special request?

Answer

In fact, yes! Both the bride and groom have food allergies and have selected a wonderful vendor who is giving them nutfree and gluten free options for guests. (It will be delicious! The bride and groom and party have tried the food--it's good) The bride and groom are aware that some family members are vegan for strict health reasons and will be offering accommodations as well.

Question

What time should I arrive at the ceremony?

Answer

Please arrive by 4:00pm. We are allowing a wiggle room between 4:00-4:20pm for guests to arrive before the ceremony begins sharply at 4:30pm. Keep in mind you are attending the wedding of two opera performers--the show must go on.

Question

Will it rain/snow? And if it does, what happens?

Answer

We highly recommend you bring an umbrella (clear or solid colored) for the ceremony. And though the bride would love the gloom and moodiness of the rain and darkness--do not fret! The reception area is located under a large tent to shield you from the rain. If it rains, the ceremony will continue WITH cocktail hour moved up to 4:30pm while we adjust the reception location to be a wedding ceremony location.

Question

Do you have any hotel recommendations?

Answer

Yes! Please refer to the travel guide section on our website and we will show you hotels that our venue has offered group ratings on.

Question

Can we visit the Gardens or are we restricted to just the Wedding area?

Answer

Yes! Hakone Estate and Gardens is rented out completely to the couple. Your experience is not limited to the wedding courtyard and the reception area. Please feel free to wander! The grounds keepers do ask that we keep food and drink in the designated areas in the Garden. If you would like more information about Hakone, please visit: https://www.hakone.com/ Keep in mind that the area is a Garden and not a park; each area has its own restrictions but also has its own beauty. Please feel free to explore and be respectful to the grounds.

Question

Are you registered? Where?

Answer

We are indeed! And it is here, on Zola.com, for your convenience and your ease.

Question

Can I bring alcohol or smoking materials?

Answer

No. Smoking/vaping of any kind is strictly prohibited at Hakone Estate and Gardens. As for alcohol, fear not, this is not a dry wedding. Libations will be provided--however, no flasks or outside alcohol will be permitted on the premises. There is a strict policy as to which types of alcohol are allowed to be served in the garden and the couple and families will be following that rule. If you'd like to drink other types of alcohol, please do so before or after the wedding event.