FAQs

Question

How do I get/renew a passport?

Answer

Visit travel.state.gov and go to "U.S. Passports." You will see different options there depending on whether you're applying for the first time or renewing. We're also happy to help walk you through the process, as we are both very experienced with passports and visas. Please start this process as soon as possible! Passport holders should double check expiration dates, since passport renewals typically take 1-2 months.

Question

Can I rent a car with someone else?

Answer

If you’re able to coordinate your travel plans with family or friends, it’s a great way to share the cost of renting a car or booking a hotel. If not, just let us know, and we’ll help match you with other guests based on your travel plans. We’re collecting everyone’s flight and itinerary details for this purpose.

Question

Can I bring a plus one?

Answer

We have limited space in the cabins, so unfortunately, we’re unable to accommodate everyone bringing a guest. If you would really like to bring someone, please reach out to us as soon as possible, and we will do our best to find space for them. Otherwise, plus-ones are by invitation only, and we kindly ask other guests not to bring a plus one. Thank you so much for your understanding!

Question

I have to spend the night on the way there. Where should I stay?

Answer

Barrie is a city about an hour from the Toronto airport and along the route to Whitefish Falls, while Parry Sound is a charming town about two hours on your way to the cabin. If you really want to knock out most of your drive, you could stay in Espanola the night before arrival. We recommend avoiding a stay in the heart of Toronto, as the airport is about an hour from downtown and in the opposite direction of the cabin.

Question

How will we get around to other islands?

Answer

We will boat people between the islands. Life jackets are available for kids and adults.

Question

What's the weather like?

Answer

The weather in July is typically warm, with daytime temperatures ranging from the 70s to 80s, cooling down in the evenings. Surface water temperatures for swimming are usually in the low 70s. July is generally the best month for weather, but conditions can still be unpredictable. If we expect rain or storms, we’ll send out a message about a week in advance. For the most reliable forecast, visit theweathernetwork.com and search for "Birch Island" to check the latest updates.

Question

What should I pack?

Answer

Make sure to check the weather before packing (see FAQ on weather), but be prepared for anything. It could be hot at midday, windy on the boat ride, chilly in the evenings, or even rainy. Packing layers is key! Here are some packing suggestions: water shoes/sandals (like Chacos or Tevas) for boating and water activities; comfortable tennis shoes for walking or hiking; a swimsuit; a windbreaker or raincoat; a warm sweatshirt or jacket; shorts, T-shirts, and tank tops; a few nice but practical outfits for the celebrations; sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. Towels will be provided at your host island, but feel free to bring your own if you prefer.

Question

What is the attire?

Answer

Wear something comfortable and summery for the wedding, as it will be outdoors. In July, it's usually quite warm during the day and cools down a bit at night (see our FAQ on weather). Think garden party attire. This could include a light, flowy dress (like a sundress or a floral dress), lightweight dress pants or shorts, a short-sleeve button-up -- a balance between formal and casual, since we will be outdoors in a scenic setting. Also, **NO HEELS**! Since you'll be getting in and out of boats and walking around an island with uneven ground, we highly recommend wearing sandals or other flat shoes for comfort and safety.

Question

What food will you be serving?

Answer

All dinners will be provided at the various evening celebrations, and we’ll drop off some breakfasts, snacks, and lunches at your host cabin ahead of the busy week. The ceremony will be a "standing party," and we’ll be serving grazing food. There will be seating options for those who need to sit down to eat. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know so we can accommodate you.

Question

How can I help with the wedding?

Answer

The best way you can help is by simply enjoying yourself! We are so excited to get married at the island because it's such a special place, and we want to give all our loved ones a meaningful experience. Just get yourself there, relax, and take full advantage of the beautiful setting. If you really want to help, we can put you to work on dishes.

Question

What expenses should I plan on?

Answer

You should plan on paying for your flights, a rental car, and potentially one night in a hotel. Once you arrive to the docks, we plan to take care of your accommodations and food for Thursday-Sunday. You may choose to stop at the store on your way here if you'll want specific snacks or drinks.

Question

Is there a registry?

Answer

We already feel so blessed that you would spend the time and money to celebrate us at the cabin. We do not expect gifts from our guests, so please don’t feel obligated to buy one. However, for those who would like to help us furnish our new home, we’ve created a registry on this site.

Question

Anything else to know about Canada?

Answer

The exchange rate has been around $1 US converting to $1.45, so remember that CDN prices you see will feel higher. At this rate, a $100 hotel will be $145 Canadian, so keep that in mind. Canada has higher sales taxes than the U.S., but if you live in Washington, the jump won’t feel as bad (and perhaps make you feel better about WA sales taxes!). Check that your cellular plan includes Canada coverage, and make sure you’re adding the international features you want. The Bay of Islands has good cell coverage, and most up here have ditched their landlines in favor of cell phones. Ruby Island has high-speed internet, as do some of the island hosts. You might be able to use your smartphone hotspot, so check with your carrier for Canada coverage.

Question

I want to celebrate your marriage, but Ontario is a little far...

Answer

No worries! We completely understand that this is a big commitment. That's why we'll have other opportunities to celebrate together, including an open house reception in Seattle on December 6th. Please let us know as soon as possible if you are no longer able to make the wedding so that we can adjust our cabin arrangements.

Question

Can I book my flight yet?

Answer

Yes! Go ahead and book your flights before prices get higher. When you do, please let us know your flight details so we can keep track of everyone’s travel plans and arrange boat pickups, carpool groups, and other logistics. We recommend using the website Skyscanner to find deals and then buying your flights directly from the airline.