FAQ
Everything people keep asking, answered honestly. Missing something? Just ask us.
What should I wear?
Cocktail attire, with mountain sense. Think dressy-but-warm: wool, velvet, layers, and shoes that can handle grass and gravel. The ceremony may be outdoors, so plan for the cold and you’ll be comfortable everywhere else. Friday night is strictly flannel-and-fire-pit casual.
How cold will it be, really?
Mountain December: highs around 40–50°F, nights below freezing. Bring a real coat — the kind you’d actually wear outside at night — plus something warm and unfussy for sitting around the fire.
When should I arrive?
Thursday, if you can swing it — that’s our real recommendation. The estate is entirely ours from Thursday afternoon through Sunday morning, and the early crowd gets the best of it: quiet grounds, first pick of the fire pit chairs, a whole extra night. Friday works too. Saturday is cutting it close.
Where am I staying?
Honest update: the estate sleeps fewer people than we love, so not everyone will be on site. As RSVPs come in and we get a real count, we’ll reach out directly if there’s room for you at Hawkesdene. In the meantime, book something from the Lodging page — early, and with a friendly cancellation policy, since December fills up out here.
Do I need to plan any meals?
No — every meal of the weekend is covered at the estate, from your first night’s dinner through Sunday breakfast. If you want to slip out and explore anyway, we have suggestions.
Can I bring the kids?
If your invitation includes your kids, we’d love to have them — you’ll see everyone in your party listed when you RSVP. If you have questions about your crew, just ask us directly.
Can I bring a plus-one?
If your invitation includes a guest, it’ll show up when you RSVP. We’re keeping the weekend to people we know and love — thanks for understanding.
When should I RSVP by?
Please reply by October 1, 2026 so we can count beds and dinner plates. The RSVP page takes about two minutes.
Do I need a car?
Yes, or a seat in someone else’s. The estate is a few minutes outside town, and rideshares are essentially a rumor up here. Send us your flight details when you RSVP and we’ll help line up carpools and shuttles.
Will my phone work?
Spotty in the valley, honestly. The house has Wi-Fi. Download offline maps and your playlists before you leave the highway, and enjoy the excuse to put the phone down.
Are there really alpacas?
Yes. Hawkesdene keeps a herd of alpacas and llamas — a private petting zoo, basically — and guests are welcome at the daily feedings. They like company. This may end up being the most photographed part of the weekend, and we’ve made peace with that.