This space is supposed to be dedicated to a cute story, but this not-as-cute story is about how you plan a fun, casual celebration when life is moving at light speed! While we ask for a bit of grace in the planning department, we *promise* a fun time and will be adding optional activities, primarily the Thursday and Friday before the wedding. If you're interested in fly fishing, horseback riding, or white water rafting, check back in or let us know! We have a hike on the calendar right now (the timing may shift depending on other things). If you have other ideas for group activities, let us know, but there's plenty to do in the Taos area or Santa Fe (or Albuquerque!) if you're able to spend a bit of time in the area. tamiko.toland@gmail.com finkem@gmail.com
5:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Casual!
This is on your own. The Earth Oven has great food, a charming outdoor patio, and music in the summer. We're not reserving seats but we'll be hanging out and look forward to spending more time with our friends! This venue is a 15-minute walk from El Monte Sagrado, the room block hotel, but it's also on Taos' main drag if you're staying elsewhere.
2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Think summer party! This is a backyard event, so pick comfortable and stable shoes.
The only gift we want is your presence. We'll be serving New Mexican-inspired food buffet style. Much of the food is vegan or vegetarian and will include the option to add locally-raised beef.
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Hiking shoes/boots and sun protection (don't attempt in Keds). Hiking poles are valuable, especially for those with knee issues (for the descent).
5.6-mile loop trail with some elevation (considered moderate). https://www.go-newmexico.com/Devisadero-Loop-Trail-No-108/#
Hotel
We created a room block that is available through May 27 by calling the hotel directly at 575-758-3502 ("Tamiko Toland wedding room block"). We chose this location for the block because it the back is adjacent to the wedding location and it is within walking distance of the Taos Plaza. While it is extremely convenient to the event, there are other options in the area you may want to consider. The room rate is $309 and does not include a $35 amenity fee or taxes. This room rate applies to 6/26-6/28 and either 3 days before or after.
Discount Code - By 5/27, call 575-758-3502, "Tamiko Toland Wedding"
Travel Note
Taos has an airport, amazingly, and offers flights from Denver on Contour (connects to a few major airlines) and JSX airlines. There is local car rental at the airport. The Santa Fe airport offers service from American and United and is a 1.5-hour drive using the "High Road to Taos," which we highly recommend. It features additional tourism and activity options and the airport does offer car rental. Albuquerque is 2.5 hours from Taos and has a much larger airport with many more airlines (+Southwest, Delta, Frontier). Pricing and schedules are likely to be better.
Hotel
This B&B is also within walking distance of the wedding venue and downtown Taos. The rates are reasonable and it offers New Mexico charm.
We'll post our registry here when we're finished building it. Thank you in advance!
Freaky fun in a hands-on art interdimensional exhibit.
This is one of our favorite restaurants in Santa Fe for amazing food (foundational Japanese with some New Mexican and generally contemporary influence) and views--the spa is fantastic if that's your thing and the public pool is no longer clothing-optional. Happy hour is 3-5 every day but Tuesday (the rare Saturday happy hour) and is "dim sum style," which is a weird cultural crossover that simply means they bring dishes from the kitchen one at a time (and they don't backtrack). Seating is limited and is best out on the deck, where you get an epic view of the mountains. Often, there is a line of folks waiting before 3 and they don't take reservations. The best drink on the happy hour menu has been and remains the $5 sakura mochi stout. Lunch is economical and the dinner menu includes a prix fixe option but, if you're not up for the full experience, a la carte works great. The sake menu is stultifyingly large, so ask for a recommendation if you're interested in exploring it.
Our favorite "secret" happy hour option that doesn't get swarmed--a rotating menu of great food and (often inventive) drinks with stunning scenery. They have a lovely outdoor patio. Locals get a 10% discount on food and beverages (including happy hour).
This is a serious hike to the highest point in New Mexico--worth the effort with an incredible 360 view and adorable wildlife (marmots! pikas! bighorn sheep!). You park at the Taos ski mountain; there are multiple approaches, but the most direct goes through the resort. If you're up for it, attempt early in the day, watch for weather, and be prepared (hiking boots & poles are recommended).
This was our Sunday hike in Santa Fe--even if you stop before the peak (a lot of people head to the top of the main quad ski lift), there are some great views through alpine terrain. Park at Santa Fe ski and head up! The top can be extremely windy and it really is deceptive--the summit is frustratingly elusive.
Step back in time and report back if you pay the money to penetrate beyond the bizarre stacks of goods and uncategorizable stuff in the "store." 100% worth the stop while you explore downtown Taos. Also, let us know if you manage to learn anything about Governor Bent.
Please enter the first and last name of one member of your party below.
If you're responding for you and a guest (or your family), you'll be able to RSVP for your entire group on the next page.