FAQs

Question

Where should we stay?

Answer

If you are feeling adventurous, there are two campgrounds in Backbone State Park. Manchester is about a 15 minute drive from Backbone. There are three hotels (one is being newly built) and various air b&b's located there. You might be able to find a cabin somewhere nearby, but will want to book early. Strawberry Point and Dundee are two small towns that are also close by. We live in Cedar Rapids, but it is about an hour away from Backbone.

Question

Where are you registered?

Answer

We are registered at MyRegistry.com. This registry is linked with our Target registry.

Question

We are coming into town early. What is there to do?

Answer

Our Things to Do page has several recommendations of places that we enjoy or have heard good things about. There is also shopping, hiking, and most likely some sort of farmer's market or event going on throughout the summer.

Question

Can our kids come?

Answer

ABSOLUTELY! There will be formal invitations sent out soon. Please write down how many kiddos will be attending with you on your RSVP card so we can plan fun games and activities for them, too! Also, Cedar Rapids has a TON of kid friendly activities, including trampoline parks, bowling alleys, splash pads, laser tag, a petting zoo, and more. Iowa City is 30 minutes South of Cedar Rapids and is home to the Iowa Children's Museum. At Backbone, there is a swimming beach, hiking, paddle boat and canoe rentals, and a playground.

Question

Is the wedding indoors or outdoors?

Answer

We are really looking forward to having an outdoor ceremony, weather permitting. We have reserved the Beach Lodge at Backbone as a rain back-up and a reception space. There will be outdoor games, but you will be able to cool down inside the lodge.

Question

What are your thoughts on pictures?

Answer

We are planning an UNPLUGGED ceremony. We are hiring a professional photographer to take pictures during the ceremony, and would appreciate all of our family and friends sitting back and absorbing the moment with us. With that being said, we are happy to take pictures with you after the ceremony. In fact, we are planning on having a photo station to help capture the excitement! We would love for you to share your fun and candid pictures with us!

Question

Are there any other SHINANIGANS going on that weekend?

Answer

We are planning a rehearsal dinner Friday afternoon/evening. We are still working out the details. Sunday morning we would like to share a quiet brunch with anyone who does not have to head out of town right away.

Question

What sort of activities will you have?

Answer

Although we are still in the planning stages, we are hoping to have: -An assortment of yard games -A photo station -Dancing (although maybe not too much, since neither of us are much for dancing) -Board games -An amazing opportunity to visit and reconnect with everyone!

Question

Will there be alcohol?

Answer

We have made the decision to have a dry wedding. But don't worry! There will be plenty of tasty beverages for your enjoyment!