Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know — but if we missed something, reach out!

  • What is the dress code?

    The dress code is Cocktail / Semi-Formal.
    We want you to look sharp and feel comfortable!

    • For men, this typically means a suit and tie (or a sport coat and dress trousers).
    • For women, a cocktail-length, midi, or maxi dress, or an elegant dressy pantsuit/jumpsuit works perfectly.


    Since both our ceremony and reception will be held entirely outdoors on the beautiful garden lawns, we highly recommend choosing block heels, wedges, or flats rather than stiletto heels so you don't sink into the grass!

  • What time should I arrive?

    The ceremony will begin promptly at 5:00PM. We recommend arriving 15 to 30 minutes early to find your seat in the garden and enjoy the surroundings before we get started.

  • When should I RSVP by?

    Please RSVP by September 3, 2026. This helps us finalize our guest count with the venue and caterers. If you miss the deadline, reach out directly and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.

  • Are guests allowed into the Inn during the event?

    While we are so excited to celebrate on the beautiful grounds of The Inn at Irwin Gardens, the interior of the historic Inn itself will be closed to guests during the event. To help preserve its rich history, architecture, and delicate nature, our celebration will be held entirely outdoors in the gardens. We appreciate your help in keeping this beautiful piece of history protected!

  • Is the venue accessible?

    We want all of our guests to feel comfortable and safe throughout the celebration! Because The Inn at Irwin Gardens is a beautifully preserved historic estate built in 1910, the terrain has some old-world charm and natural quirks.


    The main ceremony and reception spaces can be reached via brick or paved paths. However, because these are authentic Italianate gardens, there are various stone terraces, transitions from paved walkways to grass lawns, and areas with small flights of historic stone stairs (such as the descent into the sunken lawn).


    If you or a loved one use a wheelchair, walker, or generally have a difficult time with uneven ground and steps, please let us know ahead of time. We will do everything we can to ensure everyone is escorted safely and comfortably to their seats.

  • Are children welcome?

    We love your little ones! However, to keep the evening intimate, we ask that children stay home (immediate family excepted, of course). We hope you’ll take this as a fun excuse for a night out!

  • Is smoking allowed?

    Due to the plantlife in the gardens and historic nature of the property, we ask anyone needing to smoke to do so away from the gardens and estate. There are designated areas to smoke and plenty areas across the street from the venue to smoke. We ask that every guest take this requirement seriously as the staff will remove anyone seen lighting up on the property.

  • What are the parking arrangements?

    While the estate itself does not have dedicated parking, there is plenty of street parking near and around the venue. There are also small lots at Central Middle School next to the venue as well as a large parking lot diagonally across the street from the venue at St. Peters Lutheran School & Church.

  • Where are you registered?

    Your presence at our wedding is truly the greatest gift we could ask for. If you would like to honor us with a gift, we have chosen to skip a traditional registry and instead set up a fund for our next big milestones. Contributions will go toward our honeymoon adventures and helping us save for our very first home together. You can find all the details on our Honeymoon Fund page.

  • Is there a shuttle from the hotels?

    Yes! We want everyone to relax and enjoy the night safely. An on-demand shuttle will be operating between Hotel Indigo and the venue for the duration of the celebration. You can hop on a shuttle to get to the ceremony, and it will be available to take you back to the hotel whenever you are ready to call it a night.

  • What time does the event end?

    The reception will end at 10:00 PM sharp. However, the bride and groom will be moving the party back to Hotel Indigo and then to downtown Columbus, which is a short walk from the venue. Downtown Columbus hosts a few local bars where we will continue to celebrate into the later part of the evening. All are welcome!

  • What should I do if I have dietary restrictions?

    The dinner will be a buffet with different options available, however, please let us know of any allergies or dietary restrictions when you submit your RSVP so we can ensure our caterer accommodates you perfectly.

Still have questions? Email us at smithb115@gmail.com