FAQs
Question
What do I pack for Alaska?
Answer
We're getting a lot of questions about this so thought it prudent to put it right at the top: We would suggest that you pack for both warm and cool temperatures as well as for rain, as all are possible. Looking at the weather forecast for Anchorage can also give you some idea of what to expect. The current weather forecast (accessed on June 8) suggests that it will be cool and cloudy, with possible rain showers. Note that temperatures in the high 60s and low 70s feel a lot hotter in Anchorage than in the Lower 48 when it's sunny out (this is an actual thing, as explained here: https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/content/news/Why-does-75-degrees-feel-so-hot-in-Alaska-488337431.html). Most people feel pretty comfortable in shorts at those temperatures. It would be a good idea to bring some warmer clothing even if the temperatures look like they will be relatively high, as Anchorage can be pretty chilly this time of year and weather conditions may change suddenly. You should also be sure to bring a rain jacket. Fortunately rain in Anchorage tends to be more of a drizzle than a downpour, but you'll be glad to have a rain jacket if it does rain. Lastly, the mosquitoes are often out in force this time of year, especially in wooded/marshy areas and near still water (e.g. lakes). They don't tend to be much of a problem in open areas, when there's a breeze, or in the middle of the day. It might be a good idea to have some DEET on hand. As far as wedding attire goes, wear what you want! We really mean that. All colors (including white) and levels of formality are welcome.
Question
Why Anchorage?
Answer
Jean grew up in Anchorage and most of her family still lives there. Plus, Anchorage is situated in one of the most naturally beautiful places on earth!
Question
Why is the wedding on a Monday?
Answer
We got engaged on New Years Day and decided in February that we wanted an early summer wedding. Not surprisingly, the venues we looked at were all booked on weekends. Monday was the next best choice. We know a weekday wedding is less convenient than a weekend wedding, but this way you'll have more time to explore the area!
Question
What about COVID precautions?
Answer
We know that it's risky to have a wedding with COVID still active, but given that COVID is here to stay, we didn't want to endlessly delay our wedding. As far as we know, pretty much everyone on the guest list is vaccinated. We would also GREATLY appreciate it if you would take precautions while traveling to Anchorage (e.g. masking) and, if possible, test yourself for COVID before the wedding. We want to keep our immunocompromised friends and family as safe as possible! We plan to do the wedding itself outside (weather permitting). The reception with dinner and dancing will be inside, though we might have the flexibility to set it up outside if a new variant shows up. In addition, we have reserved the venue's roof as well as a picnic shelter where folks can hang out if they would prefer to avoid being inside. If anything changes about COVID or your life that makes you worry about coming, we won't be offended if you don't come (even if you initially RSVP'd yes).
Question
Are my children welcome?
Answer
Absolutely! But you'll have to keep track of them yourself - we don't plan to have any specific accommodations for children at the reception.
Question
What's the weather like at that time of year?
Answer
June has some of the best weather for Alaska, but Alaskan summers are cooler than summer in the Lower 48. The average low in June is 51 and the average high is 59, with plenty of daylight (the sun sets around 11:30, but it never really gets dark). Given that, it could end up being a little chilly (especially if there's a breeze coming off the ocean). You'd want to come prepared with a light jacket or sweater. In the event of rain, we'd probably move the ceremony inside.
Question
What's the plan for the schedule?
Answer
We're still nailing down the details of what the day of the wedding will look like. We plan for the ceremony to start at 4:00 pm and last for about a half hour. The reception will immediately follow with food, drink, and celebration until about 9:00 p.m. After that, we'll see where the night takes us!
Question
Are there discounts on rooms at local hotels?
Answer
We've reserved a block of rooms at a discounted rate at the Motel 6 in midtown Anchorage. There are fancier hotels right next door to the Motel 6 if you prefer nicer accommodations, though they come at substantially higher prices. Air BnB and VRBO are also options. See the "Travel" section of our website for details.
Question
What if I have other questions?
Answer
Feel free to reach out to either Jean or Will over email!