Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What date should I RSVP by?
A: Please RSVP by September 14th. (Check back on the site when you receive your invitation for an RSVP form!)
Q: What is the dress code?
A: We ask that you wear dressy casual attire. Please, no shorts or white outfits.
Q: Will any portion of the event be outdoors?
A: The ceremony will take place outdoors on a fully paved pavilion. In case of inclement weather, it will be moved indoors. During the reception, you will have access to the Micole Birdwalk and the terrace if you’d like to get some fresh air; however, all reception activities will take place indoors.
Q: What time should I arrive?
A: We ask that you be seated by 4:50 PM. If you are planning on driving to the museum, be aware that parking in Chicago is tricky in the best of times and you should allow extra time to find a parking spot. (You can also use the #76 bus, which drops off directly in front of the museum.)
Q: Is there a hotel at which I can receive a discount?
A: Yes! The Hotel Versey, located at 664 W Diversey Parkway, is four stops on the #76 bus from the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum and is a 20 minute walk from the museum. If you book through that link, you can receive an up to 18% discount on your room rate. Make sure you click on “Special Rates” and enter “T3” to get the special rate. (If you prefer to call to book a reservation, call 1-800-774-1500 and ask for the “T3” or the “Wedding Rate” rate code.) We encourage you to book early - if the Cubs make the playoffs, the hotel’s proximity to Wrigley Field makes it a hot commodity.
Q: What about other hotels?
A: Other options within a 20 minute walk of the museum are The Neighborhood Hotel, located at 2616 N Clark St (be aware that there is no elevator), the Willows Hotel Chicago, located at 555 W Surf St, and the Hotel Lincoln - JDV by Hyatt, located at 1816 N Clark St.
Q: Are there any parking garages nearby?
A: There is a parking garage located at 2836 N Clark St next to the Hotel Versey. One that is closer to the Nature Museum is located at 2650 N Lakeview Ave. However, be aware that you will likely not have in/out privileges at either of these locations. The SpotHero app is a great way to reserve a parking spot in advance of a trip to Chicago. For non-permitted street parking, the city’s meters use the ParkChicago app.
Q: What’s the best way to get around?
A: We really like the CTA (the local bus and rail system). You can purchase a Ventra pass at any rail station, but you are also able to use tap-to-pay with a credit or debit card to ride any bus or train in the system. Google and Apple Maps both have built in transit directions. If you’re dressed up or late, taxis or rideshares are also good options.
Q: Do you have a registry?
A: We’ll have a registry link closer to when invitations go out! However, particularly if you’re traveling, please don’t feel obligated to get a gift.
Q: Does the venue have an elevator?
A: Yes! The ceremony will take place on the first floor, which is level. The reception will take place in the second floor’s event room, which is next to the elevator.
Q: Is there anything I need to bring as a guest?
A: You may want to bring a jacket or wrap for the ceremony since we will be outdoors in Chicago during the fall.
Q: May I take pictures during the ceremony?
A: We ask that you turn off your phones and stow your cameras to allow for an uninterrupted ceremony and for our photographer to get the best possible shots. Please feel free to take photos before and after the ceremony, though!
Q: May I post pictures of your wedding on social media?
A: Sure.
Q: What’s that thing embossed on my invitation?
A: A gorilla.
Q: Isn’t Chicago dangerous?
A: Are you stupid?