FAQsFAQs
Question
What is the RSVP deadline?What is the RSVP deadline?
Answer
Your presence means the world to us! Please RSVP by January 31, 2026 so we can plan accordingly. We look forward to celebrating love, laughter, and happily ever after with you.
Question
What’s the best airport to fly into?What’s the best airport to fly into?
Answer
Most guests will fly into Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) — it’s about a 2 to 2.5-hour scenic drive to Sky Retreat in Purlear, NC. If you prefer a shorter drive, two other airports are nearby: Piedmont Triad International (GSO) – about 1.5 hours away Tri-Cities Regional (TRI) – about 1 hour 45 minutes away We recommend renting a car, as ride-shares and taxis are very limited in the mountains.
Question
How do I get to the venue from the airport?How do I get to the venue from the airport?
Answer
Sky Retreat is located at 438 Cascade Drive, Purlear, NC 28665, about one mile off the Blue Ridge Parkway. You’ll drive through some beautiful winding mountain roads — just download your directions offline before you go, since cell service can be spotty in the area. Directions to Sky Retreat coming from the Wilkesboro area: Coming up the mountain on Hwy US-421 N, take the exit ramp onto Hwy US-221 N and continue 2.5 miles. Turn right onto Idlewild road, and continue for 3.5 miles. Turn right onto Phillips Gap Rd and continue 2.1 miles until it intersects with the Blue Ridge Parkway. Turn LEFT on the parkway and go a short distance to the next full gravel road on your right (which is Phillips Gap Rd continuing on the other side of the parkway). Turn right onto this road marked by the green street sign that says Phillips Gap Rd and continue one mile. Turn right onto Cascade Drive and continue to reach the Grand Event Hall at the end of Cascade Dr. Directions to Sky Retreat coming from the Boone area: Heading out of Boone on Hwy US-421 S, take the exit ramp onto Hwy US-221 N and continue 2.5 miles. Turn right onto Idlewild road, and continue for 3.5 miles. Turn right onto Phillips Gap Rd and continue 2.1 miles until it intersects with the Blue Ridge Parkway. Turn LEFT on the parkway and go a short distance to the next full gravel road on your right (which is Phillips Gap Rd continuing on the other side of the parkway). Turn right onto this road marked by the green street sign that says Phillips Gap Rd and continue one mile. Turn right onto Cascade Drive and continue to reach the Grand Event Hall at the end of Cascade Dr.
Question
When should I plan to arrive?When should I plan to arrive?
Answer
We suggest arriving the day before the wedding to relax, explore, and adjust after traveling. If you’re driving up on the wedding day, please give yourself extra time — the roads are curvy and the mountain weather can change quickly!
Question
Do I have a plus one?Do I have a plus one?
Answer
If you haven’t been assigned a plus-one and would like to bring a guest, please feel free to reach out; we’re happy to check availability!
Question
Where should I stay?Where should I stay?
Answer
We recommend nearby hotels and rentals in: Wilkesboro (20 min away) Boone (35 min away) West Jefferson (40 min away) Book early — and please refer to the Travel and Stay page!
Question
What should I pack?What should I pack?
Answer
Mountain weather can be unpredictable, so we suggest: A light jacket or wrap for cooler evenings Comfortable shoes for outdoor areas A small umbrella or rain jacket Sunscreen and bug spray A flashlight or phone light for nighttime walks
Question
What should I wear?What should I wear?
Answer
Dress code: Semi-formal winter attire. Think cocktail dresses, midi or long sleeves, and suits or jackets — rich tones and warm fabrics work beautifully this time of year. The ceremony will be in the mountains, so bring a coat, wrap, or dressy shawl — evenings can get chilly (30s–40s°F). Heels are fine indoors, but we recommend closed-toe shoes or boots for comfort and warmth.
Question
Is the ceremony outdoors?Is the ceremony outdoors?
Answer
Weather permitting, we’ll exchange vows overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains! If it’s too cold or wet, we’ll move indoors to Sky Retreat’s beautiful event space — still with a mountain view, but toasty warm.
Question
What time should I arrive for the ceremony?What time should I arrive for the ceremony?
Answer
Please plan to arrive 30 minutes early to allow time for parking, finding your seat, and enjoying a cozy pre-ceremony drink before we begin.
Question
Is parking available?Is parking available?
Answer
Yes! Sky Retreat has plenty of parking right on-site, and our coordinators will help direct guests when you arrive. The walkways are maintained but can be cool or damp in February, so bring warm footwear and take your time getting in.
Question
Where are you registered?Where are you registered?
Answer
Your presence truly means the world to us! But if you’d like to bless us with a gift, you can find our registry right here on Zola under the Registry tab.
Question
Will there be food and drinks?Will there be food and drinks?
Answer
Absolutely! We’ll have a full dinner following the ceremony. Please let us know any dietary restrictions when you RSVP so we can make sure everyone’s accommodated.
Question
Any local tips?Any local tips?
Answer
Yes! Fuel up before heading into Purlear — gas stations are limited near the retreat. Download Google Maps or Waze offline before your drive. The Blue Ridge Parkway offers amazing photo stops if you have time! Nearby towns like Boone and Blowing Rock have great restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques if you want to explore before or after the wedding.