FAQs

Question

COVID?

Answer

Our ceremony and cocktail hour will be outside, but our reception will be indoors. We are requiring that all of our guests over the age of 6 months are fully vaccinated. We also ask that everyone take a rapid COVID test in the 24 hours before the first wedding event you attend. All of our vendors, and all staff at the venue, will be fully vaccinated. Masks: Please do whatever is comfortable for you - we ourselves have worn masks during entire weddings!

Question

Where can I RSVP?

Answer

The RSVP page of the website is live! Head over to the RSVP tab and enter the name listed on your invitation. Please RSVP by June 18th.

Question

Will the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception take place indoors or outdoors?

Answer

Weather-permitting: The ceremony will take place outdoors at the Native Garden. There is some shade, but be prepared to be in the sun (hats and sunscreen are encouraged!). The cocktail hour will take place on the Audubon Hall terrace, which is mostly shaded. The reception will take place indoors, though guests are encouraged to spend time outside playing games, hanging out by the outdoor fire pit, and experiencing the forest preserve.

Question

What should I wear?

Answer

Garden semi-formal = summer cocktail attire = tea-length, midi, or maxi jumpsuits and dresses; lightweight blazer or sports coats, dress shirts, ties, trousers and dress shoes. Colors, patterns, and fun outfits that make you feel comfortable and ready to dance are great. There are so many colors of the rainbow: please do not wear a white, cream, or ivory dress.

Question

Is there parking available at the wedding venue?

Answer

Yes! The entire Lot A will be designated parking for our guests and is closest to the Native Garden and Audubon Hall. There is ample parking in Lot A and additional spaces in Lots B and C may be used in the event that Lot A fills up (very unlikely!).

Question

Where should I stay?

Answer

Check out the Travel & Lodging tab for more detailed info!

Question

How do I get to the venue?

Answer

If you're staying at the hotel in Libertyville, there will be a free shuttle that will take you from the hotel to the venue and back at the end of the night. If you're staying in Chicago, we will have a shuttle picking up at both the Addison Red and Blue line stops and returning you back there at the end of the night. Otherwise, you are more than welcome to drive to the venue, which is about 45 min from Chicago, depending on where you are in Chicago. If you are driving, please make a plan - there will be absolutely zero drunk driving.

Question

I can't attend the wedding in person. Will there be a virtual wedding celebration?

Answer

We will have a Zoom set up to broadcast the ceremony for our friends and loved ones who cannot be with us in person.

Question

Are my kids invited?

Answer

If your children are listed on the invitation, then yes they are invited! That being said, you are more than welcome to attend without your kids - you are all adults who get to make your own decisions. Independence Grove is a very kid-friendly venue, with a large enclosed playground right next to Audubon Hall and clean, accessible paths all around the preserve. Please note in your RSVP if you're bringing your children and are interested in having childcare during the wedding. We'll do our best to help you find something!