Frequently Asked Questions
When do we need to RSVP by?
Because of the nature of a destination wedding, we are kindly asking that you RSVP by April 1. But don’t worry, Lizzie will continue to remind you if we do not hear from you by this deadline.
Are kids allowed at the wedding?
If there is one thing both Bob and Lizzie live by, it’s “the more, the merrier.” Your full family is invited to join us in celebrating our wedding in Italy. Reese and Avery will obviously be there, so your kids will have built in friends. While we cannot promise to help watch your babies and kids, we would be happy to have them be a part of our celebration. If you are interested in local babysitting options, please let us know and we can help coordinate.
How luxurious is this castle?
Ristonchi Castle is a rustic, 1,000 year old medieval castle surrounded by olive groves and a forest of chestnut trees and wild edibles. It's not a regular hotel, so there won't be daily cleanings, but all of the basics will be provided for you such as clean sheets, towels, pillows, blankets, toilet paper, soap and shampoo. The furnishings are typical Tuscan style, and some of the bathrooms are small and quirky, but that's the fun of staying in an old castle. When we wake up, we will know we’re in Tuscany!
Wait, we have to pay for our accommodations?
We know. You are spending time and money traveling all the way to Italy and now we’re also bringing up the cost of the accommodations? Money is a strange thing. The $500 per night per room (or $1,500 in total, per family) is an all inclusive price, for four days / three nights that we truly hope feels like a vacation to you.
We will pick you up in Florence on Tuesday, September 2 and bring you back on Friday, September 5.
From the moment you arrive to the castle until you arrive back in Florence, everything will be covered for you. Without ruining too many of the fun surprises we have planned, we can share that this includes every meal - breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Alcohol will be served at each lunch and dinner.
If the cost of the accommodations are the only thing preventing you for joining us, please, please reach out to Bob or Lizzie. We will try to figure something out together.
Is there anything else we will have to pay for once we’re at the castle?
There is a bar and small shop where you can buy coffee, drinks, ice cream and snacks if you find you need something extra.
I am really allergic to something. What should I do?
With your RSVP, we will ask you to include any a dietary restrictions in advance of the wedding. The wonderful team at Castello di Ristonchi has assured us they’ve seen and handled it all.
What do the meals look like during our stay?
For breakfasts, picture a super fresh Italian spread including scrambled eggs, sausages, fresh croissants, fresh bread with local jams and Ristonchi’s own honey, cheese, yogurt, muesli and fruit. Vegan and gluten-free options are available when arranged beforehand (tell us in your RSVP!). Coffee, juice, and still water.
For lunches and dinners, we will have a variety of pizza, pasta, paninis and bbq. And of course, one dinner will be the wedding reception!
If we are planning to travel before or after, can we just drive directly to the castle?
Yes, as long as you arrive on Tuesday, September 2 after 4pm, there is plenty of space for parked cars. And you may actually enjoy having a car if you want to explore the area.
If you are coming from Florence, we will pick you up and bring you to the castle on Tuesday, September 2. Don’t stress now, we will ask you to confirm your travel plans as the date gets closer to ensure that you have transportation covered.
What is the dress code?
We’re glad you asked, because we will have photography and videography each day so come prepared to dazzle.
Tuesday - Welcome in White Party, wear all white. Cocktail or smart casual.
Women: We know you don’t need help - cocktail dresses, jumpsuits, nice pants, etc.
Men: Think slacks or trousers with a button down shirt - short or long sleeve. We’ll be under the Tuscan sun, white linen would work so well!
Wednesday - Wedding is formal, black tie optional.
Women: Floor length dresses or jumpsuits.
Men: Suits or tuxedos.
Thursday - Recover. Wear whatever you want and be comfortable (but yes, photos will be taken). Don’t forget your swimsuit - we’ll be hanging at the pool all day.
What if my super cute outfits get wrinkled while traveling?
We will set up an ironing station for anyone needing to iron their clothes during their stay. There are no laundry facilities onsite.
Do I have to stay at Castello di Ristonchi?
The way that our contract works for this castle is that all of our guests must stay onsite. Please, please reach out to Bob or Lizzie if staying at the castle is the only thing preventing you from coming - we will try to work with you and our hosts to find a solution.
Where is your registry?
You think we would ask you to travel to Italy, stay at a 1,000 year old castle we picked out and get us gift? No. There is no registry. Your presence is truly the only present we could ask for.