Questions & Answers

Getting around

How should I get from the ceremony in Oxford to the reception at Stowe House?

We will be putting on coaches — please let us know when you RSVP whether you would like a seat.

If you are driving your own car, see the Travel page for where to park in Oxford; note there is no parking at the church. There is ample parking at Stowe House, and guests may leave their cars there until 10 AM the morning after the wedding.

Where should I stay?

The Accommodation page has our recommendations, but we know we have introduced more complex logistics by having two venues in different towns. If you would like personalised advice on where to stay, where to leave your car, and so on, please just reach out. We are very happy to help.

What should I do with my luggage if I am staying in a different place the night before and the night of the wedding, and travelling on the coach?

The church has agreed that guests can leave bags in a side room on arrival, and luggage can then go on the coach with you. Stowe House has also set aside a room for guests to store luggage for the duration of the reception. Please do remember to take it with you at the end of the night.

Will I have time to check into my hotel between the ceremony and the reception?

If you are travelling on the coach, then no — it will drive directly to Stowe House as soon as everyone has boarded after the ceremony and photographs. If you are driving yourself between venues you may well have time, if your hotel is near Stowe House or along the route. We expect the ceremony and photographs to finish by 1:30 PM at the latest, and drinks at Stowe House begin at 2:45 PM.

If you will be checking in after the wedding ends, please make sure your hotel can accommodate a late arrival.

What to wear

What should I wear?

The dress code is formal or cocktail: think suits with ties, cocktail dresses of any length, dressy skirt and top combinations, or formal jumpsuits. If you are unsure, just get in touch — Rebecca will probably be more help on this.

Any shoes to avoid?

There are no footwear restrictions in either the church or Stowe House, and we do not expect to spend much time on grass, so any shoes should be fine. Though if you are walking through Oxford to reach the church, do factor in the cobblestones.

What will the weather be like?

In April, who really knows. You might want to bring an umbrella for walking in and out of the venues, just in case.

Is the wedding indoors or outside?

The ceremony and reception will both be indoors. If the weather is good, we may be outside at Stowe House for drinks or photographs.

Your invitation

Can I bring a plus one?

Due to venue capacity we can only accommodate the guests named on your invitation. Thank you so much for understanding — we can’t wait to celebrate with you.

Can I bring my children?

Due to venue capacity, we are only able to invite the children whose names are included on the invitation. We really appreciate your understanding.

When is the RSVP deadline?

We can’t wait to celebrate with you. Please kindly RSVP by 31 January so we can finalise our numbers — earlier replies will be gratefully received.

On the day

Are the ceremony and reception venues accessible?

There is step-free access to the church and an accessible toilet. At Stowe House there is step-free access to all floors, though some areas may have uneven flooring owing to the age of the building. We will also have a quieter room available during the evening reception, should you need a break from the music.

If you have any accessibility requirements you would like us to know about, please tell us in your RSVP.

Is it okay to take pictures with phones and cameras during the wedding?

Yes — we would love for you to take photos and share them with us. We only ask that you refrain from taking photographs during the ceremony.

Who should I contact if I have any questions in advance of the day?

Rebecca on +44 7845 077674 or Jonathan on +44 7414 903603, by phone or WhatsApp, or our wedding email address, hartyhowewedding@gmail.com.

Who should I contact if I have any questions on the day?

We probably won’t be checking our phones in the hours before the ceremony, so if anything comes up at the last minute, please reach out to maids of honour Jenny and Fiona on +44 7784 677881 or +44 7565 642297, or best men Chris and Ben on +44 7842 748378 or +44 7522 385809.

A matter of some delicacy

Summer

Is Summer going to be there?

She was invited but has politely, firmly declined. Please still come.

Why did she decline? I thought she liked you?

She hasn’t explained. Reading between the lines, we’re not sure she approves of the institution of marriage.