FAQs
Question
When should I RSVP by?
Answer
As soon as you can! However, if you need time to determine whether or not you can come, please let us know no later than March 15th, 2024.
Question
What is the weather going to be like?
Answer
Bologna in June tends to sit at around the mid-80s, generally sunny, and cool in the evenings. With that said, Italy does not have air conditioning as available as it is in the US. We recommend paying attention to how much time you are spending in the sun, being cognizant of opportunities to move to the shade, and drinking a lot of water. Remember that it will not be obvious that a café or store will have AC and that water in European restaurants and cafés is not free. This problem is only heightened when you add alcohol to the equation! We've seen some friends in the past struggle with some heat stroke, so please make sure you take care of yourself :)
Question
A Catholic mass? Am I allowed to be here? What do I do?
Answer
Chiara is Catholic and wants to be married also in a religious context, but understands that everyone (including her soon-to-be-husband) comes from a variety of different backgrounds and religious beliefs. Because of this, we made a conscious choice to pick a church that is, first and foremost, welcoming and warm towards everyone. If you've been to a Catholic mass before, you might notice some differences during our mass including little to no kneeling and other small modifications to respect the differences in religious beliefs between us two and to ensure a comfortable and beautiful experience for all. A lot of it will also be in Italian, but we will provide a Worship Aid that will have everything translated in both languages so you can follow along. Please feel free to participate as much or as little as you would like. The one consideration we ask is to please not partake in Communion unless you have been Baptized and gone through First Communion within the Catholic Church. We hope that regardless of your background, you can enjoy the ceremony, bask in the basilica, and celebrate this moment with us!
Question
What time should I arrive?
Answer
Try to get to the church around 3:30 - 3:45 PM.
Question
What should I wear?
Answer
Our dress code for the wedding is what we're calling Italian formal - breathable, flowy, and elegant. More specifically, for those who are interested in suits, a tie is preferred but not necessary. For those interested in wearing dresses or skirts, think mid-length or longer. For all, please consider bringing something to cover any bare shoulders or deep v-necks when inside the church. After the mass is over, everything is a go! For those interested in wearing heels, please keep in mind that the reception venue has a lot of grass and block heels or wedges will work better than stilettos. For any questions, feel free to reach out to Chiara at (512) 545-2944.
Question
Do you have a registry?
Answer
We have included a honeymoon fund in another section of this website. We know traveling to Italy is no small feat and your presence is the best gift you could give us. Contributions are not expected, though always very much appreciated!
Question
Tell me about the reception! What should I expect?
Answer
We will be holding our reception at Villa dei Marchesi Scarani, right outside of Bologna's city center and about a 10 minute drive from the church. We will have transportation available for everyone after the mass ends. The reception will (hopefully!) be outside with tents for shade. There will be plenty of drinks and appetizers, a sit down dinner, and many types of desserts with coffee (and, of course, wedding cake!).
Question
I have a dietary restriction, who should I reach out to?
Answer
Please reach out to either Tommy or Chiara and we will get in contact with the venue to make sure all your needs are addressed.
Question
How long does it take to get a passport? How far away does my passport’s expiration date have to be for me to travel?
Answer
If you do not yet have a passport, we recommend getting one as soon as possible for ease of mind, however, the Department of Transportation lists routine processing times of 8 to 11 weeks. You will not be allowed to travel internationally if your passport expires within six months of the return date of your trip. Please check the expiration date on your passport to see if your passport is good to go.
Question
Is it worth it to get an Italian SIM card?
Answer
Though your phone plan may have an international option, these plans can be pretty expensive. A European SIM card could be something to consider as a cheaper option to having reliable data to use Maps on your phone while navigating around. It can also make it much easier to find and stay in contact with each other! You can get a physical European SIM card when you land, or you can purchase a European eSIM online if your phone does not have a physical SIM card slot. Physical SIM cards will be pretty easy to find in the airport, or you could visit a phone store. For some eSIM options, please see here: https://thesavvybackpacker.com/best-esim-italy/. If you do not want to purchase a European SIM, no problem, you should be absolutely fine. WiFi can be tricky to find when you're out and about, but doable.
Question
What will transportation look like? Would a car be useful?
Answer
We will provide transportation to and from wedding festivities. If you are hoping to travel before or after the wedding by car, we would advise to not include the days you are in Bologna in your car rental period. Bologna’s downtown limits vehicles entering on the weekends, and generally parking is difficult and the streets are quite narrow. The city has wonderful public transportation via buses, and porticoes (which are UNESCO world heritage sites!) throughout the city make it extremely pleasant to walk, even in the heat or in bad weather. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to Chiara and Tommy.
Question
Should I carry cash?
Answer
We recommend carrying around 20 - 50 euro in cash with you at any time, with some of that in smaller 1 - 2 euro coins. Cash is still used frequently in Italy, and especially for small purchases (a coffee, small snack, etc.) cash will be preferred. Some taxis and other vendors/establishments will insist on cash-only. Additionally, some public restrooms will require a small fee (1 - 2 euros) to gain access.
Question
I've heard pickpocketing in Europe can be a concern, is that true?
Answer
Relative to your daily experiences in the US, you should pay a little closer attention to your personal belongings especially when you are in a tourist-heavy locations or on public transit. We recommend keeping wallets in your front pockets and purses zipped and visible in front of you. If you use some extra street smarts, you should be totally fine.
Question
Can I really not order a cappuccino after 11 AM?
Answer
You can do whatever makes you happy! Culturally, however, unfortunately not.