FAQs
Question
Can I wear shorts and a t-shirt? MD in July is hot and sweaty!
Answer
Yes! We recommend you stick to cooler fabrics and breathable materials. Please leave the social and political commentary t-shirts and hats at home; this is a celebration and we want everyone to feel happy and comfortable.
Question
Do you have any specific wedding colors?
Answer
Not really! We are having a casual wedding, so no formal attire or color scheme is required or expected. So the rainbow is your guide, and if you wear your food as well as eat it, be advised the reception dinner is barbecue-based and/or slathered in garlic butter.
Question
Is there a theme or something?
Answer
The theme is no theme! Brian is wearing a special Hawaiian shirt, so feel free to wear your own. Shannon is attempting to create a wedding-adjacent sundress with built-in air conditioning, and she is still likely to complain about the heat and humidity. Loudly. Even if it was her idea.
Question
Will there be animals present?
Answer
Yes. Maranda and Brandon have been gracious enough to open their home and their backyard, and there are both dogs and cats in the home. We will be outdoors, but indoor seating comes with three dogs who shed and swear they aren't side-eying your food, three cats that hide but also attempt to run outdoors, and also, they shed. Maranda feeds the squirrels and birds outside. I'm not sure about the raccoons...
Question
Can we bring our kids?
Answer
Yes! This is a family-friendly event, and we have made every effort to include all immediate family members. If we missed someone in your immediate family, let us know. We do ask that you not invite anyone not on the invitation without a quick text to check space. The backyard is a nice size, but it's not a large venue.
Question
Are stilettos a good shoe option?
Answer
We'd recommend flats, sneakers, or sandals. This is a large, grassy backyard and anything with even a small heel is just asking for a trip to urgent care. The bride is likely wearing Vans, Converse, or maybe sandals.
Question
Can I bring my animals?
Answer
This is a question best directed personally to us via private message. As a blanket rule, we would say no, but if there are specific needs, please text one of us and we will check with the fam. Working service dogs are, of course, welcome.
Question
Can I bring my neighbor's sister's best friend's elderly aunt? She loves wedding cake!
Answer
We are limiting the guest list to longtime friends and family only...but you're welcome to take Auntie a slice of cake or cheesecake home! (Unless Auntie has a Baltimore house she'd like to gift us, then we'll talk...)
Question
Is Shannon pregnant?
Answer
For the love of all that is holy, no! If she were, this would have been a lot sooner...and possibly a funeral. Not sure whose, but definitely a funeral.
Question
Is Brian pregnant?
Answer
Yes. We will charge admission later when he gives birth. He warned me already that he is expensive and will expect many Dr. Peppers and Reese's Cups upon delivery.
Question
Will there be a livestream event or recording available?
Answer
Yes! We are going to attempt a Google Meet or Facebook livestream of the ceremony itself, which will start at 4:30 EST. The link for the livestream will be available on this web site, ideally the day before, but definitely the morning of the event.
Question
You're getting married on a Sunday?
Answer
Yes. We chose this date because it is our 8th anniversary and we did not consider the day until after we decided on it. Would it have changed our minds? Likely not, but if we weren't doing a lot of really expensive things in July and August, we may have just gone to Vegas! (Shannon said Atlantic City, Brian refused to get married in Jersey.)