FAQsFAQs

Question

What is your wedding hashtag?What is your wedding hashtag?

Answer

Our wedding hashtag is #RAndBeatGoesOn. It is a special blend of our names, a tribute to one of our favourite songs, "And The Beat Goes On" by The Whispers, and a nod to our love for Rhythm and Blues (R&B). This song holds a special place in our hearts as it was one of Richard's late father's favorites. He played it after becoming the first in his family to graduate university, marking a significant moment of pride and achievement. As explained by Old Time Music: "'And the Beat Goes On' is a song about resilience and the unstoppable nature of life. It encourages us to keep moving forward, no matter the challenges we face. The pulsating beat serves as a metaphor for the consistent rhythm of life, the constant flow of time that carries us along. The Whispers deliver this message with an infectious energy that lifts spirits and urges us to embrace the future with optimism." Please use our wedding hashtag for all wedding-related content!

Question

When is the RSVP deadline? How do I RSVP?When is the RSVP deadline? How do I RSVP?

Answer

Please RSVP by July 31st, 2025. All RSVPs must be submitted through our wedding website, as we will also be capturing your meal preferences, dietary restrictions, and song recommendations. Kindly avoid texting, calling, or emailing your RSVP - use the website to ensure your response is recorded. Thank you!

Question

Are kids welcome at the ceremony and/or reception?Are kids welcome at the ceremony and/or reception?

Answer

While we adore your little ones, our wedding will be an adults only event to allow everyone to fully relax and enjoy the evening. We appreciate your understanding and making arrangements in advance to celebrate with us.

Question

Can I bring a plus one or a date?Can I bring a plus one or a date?

Answer

Unexpected guests will not be allowed into the venue. There are no plus ones. There will be security at the door. Guests must show their wedding invite and photo ID at the entrance. We have lovingly curated our guest list to ensure our wedding day remains an intimate and meaningful celebration. Each invitation reflects the specific guests we’ve planned for, and we expect all our guests to respect the environment we are creating for our special day.

Question

Is there a dress code?Is there a dress code?

Answer

Our special day is a black-tie affair. This is a strict dress code. Please dress appropriately - think tuxedos, suits, and floor length gowns (no dresses above the knee or contoured/bodycon dresses, please!). As this is an Autumn wedding, we recommend the following colours: Black Purple Burgundy Lavender Rich Brown Forest Green Dusty Blue/Navy Blue Sage Green/Dusty Green Mustard Yellow (Not Bright Yellow) Please do not wear the following colours: White Champagne Pastel colours, blush colours, or any "summer" colours We recommend the following for your dance floor comfort: Athletic Wear Running Shoes Sandals or Flip Flops Jeans/Jeggings/Leggings Please do not wear the following: Hats Sunglasses Inflatable costumes, or any prank-related gimmicks Anything with obscenities or any phobic/ism language Costume wear, including feather boas, party hats, or glitter

Question

Will there be a coat check provided?Will there be a coat check provided?

Answer

Coat check will be provided, free of charge. As our wedding takes place in Autumn, please ensure you have a warm coat.

Question

Is there parking for the ceremony and/or reception?Is there parking for the ceremony and/or reception?

Answer

Complimentary parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. For guests staying at nearby hotels, we suggest leaving your car at the hotel and using Uber, Lyft, or a taxi to reach the venue. To ensure everyone’s safety, Paradise Banquet Centre requires a designated driver for those who plan on drinking.

Question

Are masks required?Are masks required?

Answer

For our special day, masks are optional unless otherwise required. If you prefer to wear a mask, please bring one (or more) with you. If you experience severe illness within two weeks of our wedding, we kindly ask that you update your RSVP to "no."

Question

Is there a place to smoke?Is there a place to smoke?

Answer

Our wedding will be held in a smoke-free environment, including vaping. We kindly ask that you refrain from smoking throughout our special day, as Bianca is very sensitive to smoke. If you must smoke, please step outside to the street level (off premises) and direct the smoke upwards to prevent the scent from clinging to your clothes. Before re-entering, ensure you are fully aired out.

Question

Will the ceremony and reception be indoor or outdoor?Will the ceremony and reception be indoor or outdoor?

Answer

Both the ceremony and reception will be indoors. Note there is a lovely outdoor garden to take photos in!

Question

Are the ceremony and reception wheelchair accessible?Are the ceremony and reception wheelchair accessible?

Answer

The ceremony and reception will be fully wheelchair accessible. Our wedding planner is dedicated to ensuring barrier-free access throughout our special day.

Question

What time should I arrive at the ceremony?What time should I arrive at the ceremony?

Answer

Timings are precise, so please plan to arrive early rather than on time. We ask that you arrive an hour before the ceremony begins (by 3:00 pm) to ensure ample time for parking, socializing, signing our guest book, and seating. Please note that if you are late, you will miss the events! Once the doors close, they will remain shut until the next segment.

Question

What room are the ceremony and reception being held in?What room are the ceremony and reception being held in?

Answer

Both the ceremony and reception will be held in the beautiful Classic Ballroom at Paradise Banquet Centre. This stunning room features its own spacious private lobby for ultimate privacy, as well as two bars (one in the lobby and one in the room) to maintain traffic flow.

Question

Is there assigned seating for the ceremony?Is there assigned seating for the ceremony?

Answer

The front rows will be reserved for our wedding party and immediate family. All other guests are welcome to select a seat at their convenience. We kindly ask that you arrive early to allow ample time for seating and to be fully present for the ceremony.

Question

Community Vows will take place during the ceremony. Can you explain what that is?Community Vows will take place during the ceremony. Can you explain what that is?

Answer

Community vows are a special part of our wedding ceremony where our family and friends will have the opportunity to affirm their love, support, and commitment to our marriage. Instead of traditional vows being just between us as a couple, we invite our loved ones to join with us, acknowledging their role in our journey together. During this moment, our officiant will ask our guests to pledge their encouragement, wisdom, and unwavering support as we embark on this new chapter. By participating, you become an integral part of the foundation of our marriage, reinforcing the love and community that surrounds us. Your presence at our wedding already means the world to us, and through community vows, we celebrate the idea that love is not just between two people, but also strengthened by the village that surrounds them.

Question

Will you be live streaming your wedding ceremony?Will you be live streaming your wedding ceremony?

Answer

Please note that the ceremony will not be live streamed. We are having an unplugged ceremony, which means we kindly request that no recording devices, including phones and cameras, be used during the ceremony. We want everyone to be fully present and enjoy this special moment with us.

Question

Am I allowed to take photos during the wedding ceremony?Am I allowed to take photos during the wedding ceremony?

Answer

We are having an unplugged ceremony, which means we kindly request that no recording devices, including phones and cameras, be used during the ceremony. We want everyone to be fully present and enjoy this special moment with us. We will be collecting recording devices before the ceremony and safely storing them. Your phones will be returned during cocktail hour, at which point you are welcome to post as many photos and videos as you desire using our wedding hashtag #RAndBeatGoesOn!

Question

The bride and groom will jump the broom at the end of the ceremony. What does that mean?The bride and groom will jump the broom at the end of the ceremony. What does that mean?

Answer

In our wedding ceremony, we will honour the tradition of jumping the broom - a powerful symbol of love, unity, and resilience in Black culture. This tradition dates back to the days of slavery when enslaved Black couples were denied the legal right to marry. Jumping the broom became a sacred act, representing their commitment to one another in the face of oppression. Today, it continues as a way to pay homage to our ancestors, acknowledging their strength, perseverance, and love. For us, jumping the broom is a way to celebrate not only our union but also the legacy of those who came before us. It represents the sweeping away of the past, the embracing of our future together, and the love and community that surround us. As we take this leap together, we invite our loved ones to witness and celebrate this moment, knowing that our marriage is deeply rooted in history, love, and the unwavering support of our village.

Question

Can I post wedding photos on social media?Can I post wedding photos on social media?

Answer

Absolutely! After our unplugged ceremony, feel free to share as many photos and videos as you’d like using our wedding hashtag #RAndBeatGoesOn. We can’t wait to see and celebrate the moments you capture!

Question

Will there be a time gap between your wedding ceremony and reception?Will there be a time gap between your wedding ceremony and reception?

Answer

Yes, there will be a short interval between our wedding ceremony and reception. During this time, please join us for a delightful cocktail hour featuring hors d'oeuvres and an open bar of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Question

What happens after the ceremony?What happens after the ceremony?

Answer

After the ceremony, our photographers will be taking guided guest photos. A lovely cocktail hour in the private lobby will follow. Kindly note that we WILL be in attendance. The cocktail hour will feature a variety of hors d'oeuvres and an open bar of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Question

Will there be food and drinks during cocktail hour?Will there be food and drinks during cocktail hour?

Answer

After the wedding ceremony, join us for a delightful array of light passed hors d’oeuvres and enjoy an open bar. Raise a toast to our nuptials with a curated selection of soft drinks, juices, wine, beer, and our signature cocktail.

Question

Will there be assigned seating for the reception?Will there be assigned seating for the reception?

Answer

Yes, assigned seating will be arranged for the reception to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all our guests. A seating chart will be available upon arrival to guide you to your designated table. We kindly ask that you refer to the chart and take your assigned seat for the evening's celebration.

Question

Will dinner be served at the reception? What kind of food?Will dinner be served at the reception? What kind of food?

Answer

A delicious four-course meal will be served at the reception. We'll share the specific menu details in late summer, following our taste testing! You can expect either a chicken or vegetarian option. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know when you RSVP so we can accommodate your needs.

Question

Can I make a toast?Can I make a toast?

Answer

We appreciate the love, but to keep things on schedule, only pre-arranged speakers will be giving toasts.

Question

Will there be meal options for guests with dietary restrictions or allergies?Will there be meal options for guests with dietary restrictions or allergies?

Answer

We can accommodate all dietary restrictions and allergies, but it’s essential to indicate these when you RSVP. Please make sure to update your RSVP on our wedding website to ensure we can cater to your needs.

Question

Will there be an open bar, cash bar, or is this an alcohol-free wedding?Will there be an open bar, cash bar, or is this an alcohol-free wedding?

Answer

Open bar will be provided. We will have a variety of wines, domestic and imported beers, and spirits for you to enjoy responsibly. These include: DOMESTIC & IMPORTED BEER Coors Light, Rickards Red, Miller Genuine Draft, Molson Canadian, Bierra Moretti, Heineken SPIRITS Rye, White Rum, Vodka, Gin, Scotch, Brandy, Cognac, Aperol, Grappa, Sambuca, Tequila. Amaretto, Campari, Dry Vermouth, Martini Rosso, Amaro, Malibu Rum, Peach Schnapps, Irish Cream, Kahlua, Crème de Cacao, Triple Sec, Crème de Banana, Blue Curacao SOFT DRINKS & JUICE Root Beer, Pepsi, Sprite, Ginger Ale, Crush, and Assorted Juices HOT DRINKS Cappuccino, Espresso, Assorted Teas

Question

Will there be a Photo Booth?Will there be a Photo Booth?

Answer

Is it really a wedding without a Photo Booth?! There will be unlimited, coloured prints with stunning backdrops available by our vendor, Booth Levels. The Photo Booth will be available once the dance floor opens - be sure to snap some memories!

Question

What time will your wedding reception end? Is there an after-party?What time will your wedding reception end? Is there an after-party?

Answer

Our celebration will conclude at 12:30 AM. We kindly ask guests to plan their departure accordingly. To ensure a smooth and timely exit, we encourage you to arrange transportation in advance, such as pre-booking an Uber or coordinating a designated driver.

Question

Can I take home leftover food/dessert?Can I take home leftover food/dessert?

Answer

Yes, and we highly encourage it! We aim to have a zero-waste wedding. Don't be shy to bring Tupperware!

Question

Will there be other events to attend on the wedding weekend?Will there be other events to attend on the wedding weekend?

Answer

We will be hosting an intimate and relaxed evening at our favourite board game café, Dicey Business, the night after the wedding (Saturday October 11th) from 5:00pm until late. Dicey Business is a charming, fully licensed board game café in Mississauga. You can learn more about it here: Dicey Business - https://dicey.biz We’re thrilled to have the space reserved just for us, thanks to our wonderful friends who own the café. RSVP on our wedding website to let us know you’ll be joining. Please note that games, food, and drinks will be at your own expense.

Question

Will transportation be provided to and from the hotel and ceremony/reception?Will transportation be provided to and from the hotel and ceremony/reception?

Answer

Transportation to and from the hotel and ceremony/reception is not provided. Guests are responsible for their own transportation. Complementary parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend guests staying at nearby hotels use Uber, Lyft, or a taxi. For safety, Paradise Banquet Centre requires a designated driver for those consuming alcohol.

Question

Do you have a hotel block for guests? Where do you recommend I stay?Do you have a hotel block for guests? Where do you recommend I stay?

Answer

Hotel blocks have been reserved at several nearby hotels on a first come, first serve basis. Navigate to the "Travel" section of our wedding website for full details on accommodations.

Question

Do you have any recommendations for where to eat, points of interest, or things to do?Do you have any recommendations for where to eat, points of interest, or things to do?

Answer

Yes! Check out the "Things to Do" page on our wedding website, where we’ve listed our favorite local spots and activities in the area.

Question

Do you have any discount codes for car rentals?Do you have any discount codes for car rentals?

Answer

Yes, we have discount codes for Enterprise, Thrifty, and Hertz! Navigate to the "Travel" section of our wedding website for booking details.

Question

What's the best way to get to the venue?What's the best way to get to the venue?

Answer

Kindly note that our wedding is held over the Canadian Thanksgiving long weekend. It is also the last "cottage weekend" of the season. Expect delays - especially on the highway. If you are coming from the west or east end, consider taking city streets like Rutherford or Steeles instead of the 400 highway series. Be sure to plan your trip accordingly, and leave ample time should there be delays.

Question

What is the weather like in the area?What is the weather like in the area?

Answer

Ontario’s weather can be unpredictable! Early October might bring late summer warmth or a crisp fall chill. We recommend checking the local weather forecast as close to the big day as possible.

Question

Do you have a wedding registry?Do you have a wedding registry?

Answer

Our wedding registry will be available in Spring 2025. While we are not expecting any boxed gifts, we greatly appreciate your thoughtfulness and generosity! This will help us as we start our new life, and move into our first home together. If you opt to send a boxed gift, please have it delivered (address available upon request).

Question

Can we provide a gift card towards your home furnishing?Can we provide a gift card towards your home furnishing?

Answer

Absolutely! Gift cards to Amazon, Costco, or HomeSense are appreciated, as we are moving into our first home together after the wedding.

Question

Where will wedding updates be posted?Where will wedding updates be posted?

Answer

Our wedding website should have all the details you need (Bianca has worked EXTRA hard to cover all necessary bases). Please review it carefully. If there are any major updates, we’ll send an email, so keep an eye on your inbox.

Question

I still have questions. What is the best way to contact you?I still have questions. What is the best way to contact you?

Answer

For lengthy Questions: Email RAndBeatGoesOn@GMail.Com For Quick Questions: Call/Text/iMessage Bianca at 647-269-7677 or Richard at 630-788-8667