FAQs

Question

When should I book my flight?

Answer

Airfare to France was the most affordable in November and December as well as in February when booking for May (we took notes last year). We advise price watching for the best deal using travel apps like Hopper or sites like Kayak. More details on the 'Travel' page of our site for this and accommodation information.

Question

So it's an outdoor wedding; what will the weather be like?

Answer

Mid-season in Burgundy is usually lovely (dry and sunny). For example, swimming weather commonly starts in late March. For our wedding in May, we anticipate the weather to feel something like spring in the morning, summer during the day and fall in the evening.

Question

What is the most convenient way to travel to the property?

Answer

We recommend guests take the high speed train from the airport or wherever they'll be coming from, and we will arrange shuttles from the local train stations. Further travel information can be found on the travel page of this site or at chateaudevarennes.net/moreinfo/transport.

Question

Is the venue flexible with dietary requirements?

Answer

Yes, our venue caters to all dietary needs – veggie/vegan, gluten-free, fat-free, dairy-free, food allergies etc. All food is made with fresh local produce from the venue's own gardens, or locally sourced from the region. Please note your meal preferences & restrictions along with your RSVP.

Question

Do you have rooms reserved for guests staying off-site?

Answer

We have reserved Chateau de Lays, a cousin chateau to CDV. We have sent out an email to you if we've blocked a room for you here. We also have details on local hotels, bed & breakfasts and home rentals (Airbnb anyone?) in the area listed on the 'Travel' page of this site.

Question

I am staying at Chateau de Varennes and I have questions

Answer

See the FAQs for Chateau de Varennes at http://chateaudevarennes.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Guest-FAQs_Chateau-de-Varennes_2019.pdf

Question

I'm staying at Chateau de Lays, is there transportation provided to the venue?

Answer

Yes, there is a complimentary shuttle to and from the venue on Friday night for the Welcome Feast and a shuttle to the wedding ceremony at 3:45pm on Saturday. Later in the evening there will be a rotating taxi service for guests when they wish to return to Chateau de Lays.

Question

What about the children??

Answer

Chateau de Varennes is a kid (and baby) friendly venue. For the wee ones in attendance, we will be arranging childcare onsite for the night of the wedding. There is a children's playroom in the main house as well as a playground outdoors. We also heard rumors about mini ponies but we can't promise anything...

Question

Are you registered? Where?

Answer

We are lucky to have all that we need, and on top of that, we know that taking a trip to a foreign country is no small ask! Your presence is our greatest present. As such, we are asking for no wedding gifts. That said, a small registry will be posted on this site closer to the wedding date for those of you who just can't help themselves ;) But seriously. We just want you to join us at the wedding (if you can make it!)

Question

What are the options for meals outside of the wedding reception?

Answer

We will be hosting a welcome dinner at Chateau de Varennes on the Friday night before the wedding (there will be a shuttle from/to Chateau de Lays provided that night as well). Breakfast is included with your stay at both Chateau de Varennes and Chateau de Lays. Chateau de Varennes guests will be opted in to an all-inclusive boarding package that includes all meals. For Chateau de Lays guests; we may arrange lunches/dinner on Sunday night if most guests plan to spend the day there, but will wait to see what people are planning to do first. Most wedding guests do lunches in nearby villages or towns while out sightseeing. You can also bring food back from local shops to cook or eat at either Chateau or wherever you're staying.

Question

Can you recommend local restaurants?

Answer

Suggestions from the owners of the venue can be found here (password is varennes): chateaudevarennes.net/moreinfo/welcome-book/ Please bear in mind that the capacity of some restaurants is limited and that they will require a deposit to secure your reservation if you have a big number.

Question

Where can I go for food shopping?

Answer

Useful info can be found here (password is varennes): chateaudevarennes.net/moreinfo/welcome-book

Question

Can you suggest local specialties to purchase while in Burgundy?

Answer

Local specialties include macarons, blackcurrant liquors, jams, mustards and of course famous Burgundy wine and sparkling wines.

Question

Is there parking or a shuttle to the venue?

Answer

There is free parking at the venue should you choose to drive; we will also provide a free shuttle to/from Chateau de Lays should you decide to stay there.

Question

I found two Chateau de Varennes, which one is it?

Answer

Our wedding will be held at Chateau de Varennes̲, located in Burgundy, France. The correct one is spelled 'Varennes', the incorrect one is spelled without the 's' ('Varenne') and is a hotel located in Provence. To be clear: If there is an 's' on the end, then you have found the right one!

Question

How exactly do you pronounce 'Beaune'?

Answer

Kind of like saying the first half of "Bon Appetit" - a mix between bone and bun.

Question

What's the best way to contact you with other questions?

Answer

Feel free to reach out to us via phone/text: Alena (720) 227.5270 Luke (707) 208.8805 or email us! Alena (alenasheath@gmail.com) Luke (lucasbsullivan@gmail.com)