FAQ
FAQ
Are the wedding & reception kid-friendly?
Yes! Families are welcome to bring their children - let us know (closer to the date) if you'd like to bring your children so we can plan accordingly.
Will there be a states-side celebration for anyone unable to travel?
Yes! Currently, we are thinking of hosting a more casual celebration in Massachusetts sometime in August 2025 for anyone who is unable to travel to Ireland (& anyone else who wants to celebrate a month of marriage with us)!
What is the best airport to fly into?
We would recommend flying into Dublin Airport. From Dublin, if you rent a car, the drive is fairly straight forward. You will take motorways into Northern Ireland and then continue into Donegal county. There are also plenty of bus options from Dublin airport to Donegal Town or other locations across Ireland. Additionally, for those traveling back to the US, you go through US customs in Dublin so when you land you're all set!
While Shannon Airport might appear to be just as close to Donegal Town, the road from Shannon is not as direct as from Dublin. However, if you plan on spending time in Galway Shannon Airport could be a reasonable choice.
Lastly, if available to you, Belfast Airport is also an option but there is more limited travel availability from airports outside of Europe.
Would you recommend renting a car?
The short answer: Yes. (And we promise the driving on the "wrong" side of the road isn't as stressful as you think!) We've had great luck with AutoEurope.com for reasonable prices.
There are plenty of buses that will take you around almost all of Ireland, however, if you plan on traveling to multiple locations the cost of the bus tickets can add up. Additionally, much of the appeal of Ireland is the true, raw beauty of the country which we think is the easiest to take in from your own vehicle and on your own schedule.
There is a minimum required insurance for rental vehicles in Ireland, however, look into your credit card agreement which could "cover you" and provide rental car insurance. You'll need evidence that your credit card agreement includes this (print out that portion or have that agreement ready to show) and the rental company will likely put a "hold" on your card (last time the bride did this it was a $4,000 hold that was immediately lifted when the car was returned).
What is the dress code?
Formal/Black-Tie Optional (i.e. Suit/Tie, Tuxedo, Long Dresses, Formal Cocktail Dresses, Dressy Pantsuits, etc).
Are there any colors or styles you'd prefer me to wear?
The short answer: No. We've been asked a few times if we have a particular "color palette" or "color scheme" in mind for the wedding. However, we'll be incorporating lots of wildflower colors into our decor and it is a summer wedding so don't be afraid to shy away from bright colors if that's your thing! (The bride is also very partial to a bold pattern so don't be afraid to have fun with your outfit.)
What will the climate in Donegal be like?
Warm but not hot. While July is on average the warmest month for Ireland, the average temperature is around 65°F with brisk breezes and rain showers always a possibility. At night the temperature will drop further to around 50°F so we'd recommend bringing a light jacket or shawl.
Will there be meal options for guests with dietary restrictions or allergies?
Yes! Please make sure to include any allergies or restrictions when you RSVP. The bride is celiac/coeliac so she is very aware of how difficult it can be to eat with allergies or restrictions. We are already planning for plenty of gluten-free options and a vegetarian main dish option, but please let us know if there's anything else we can plan for to make sure you feel safe eating & enjoying our wedding!
Will there be an open bar?
Short answer: No. However, during our drinks reception immediately following our ceremony there will be beer, champagne, coffee, tea, and water available. Additionally during dinner guests can choose between a white or red wine for their meal. After that there will be a fully stocked (and gorgeous) bar available to guests throughout the night.
Will there be an day "after-party"?
Yes! There will be an informal day-after party more north in Clonmany (where Gerard Owen grew up) to have more fun together (and maybe ease some hangovers) at a local pub, Mac Tam's starting in the evening.
Also, the reception will go well into the wee-hours of Wednesday night/Thursday morning so look forward to a long reception!