Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear?
For the Main Event:
Fashion-forward Evening Cocktail. We want you to feel amazing.
We want you to feel like Shakira and Beyoncé in the Super Bowl. Throw a fun pocket square in there, wear that deep lipstick colour you’ve been waiting for a reason to put on - seriously - have fun.
Also, Bogota is cold. It’s “sweater weather.” Think San Francisco in December. You probably won’t be swimming.
And then the sun will come out and you’ll be sweating in minutes. There’s a reason the Ruana is the national outfit.
We also made a Pinterest board if you’re having an existential crisis on what to wear: https://pin.it/1sBRgLj19
For the Phở and BBQ event:
Bring comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty (if you want to say hi to the animals and walk around). We also recommend packing sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and a raincoat.
For the Rumba @Andrés event:
Whatever you want to wear for a night out. Usually, with all the dancing it can get hot so something “airy” is recommended. They do have a coat check at the restaurant and it’s safe to leave your layers, might just be annoying to have to wait for them to give it back if you’re ready to leave.
I added some photos in the dedicated page and you can see that tying the denim jacket around the waist is my preferred option.
Should I prepare anything before the wedding?
Consider that we’re doing this to have fun. We want to dance, sing, eat, spend time with all of you.
Practical considerations: learn a little bit of salsa, merengue, vallenato, and bachata. No one is an expert but we want you to feel comfortable enough to move your body and dance.
Yes, it is a big party and we’re doing it because in one way or another each of you has been there for us and has made a positive impact in our lives.
We want you to enjoy, be yourself, and remember these events as invitations to live life (cliché, but it’s true).
What should we get you for a wedding gift?
Your presence at our wedding is the greatest gift of all! Like, actually. We're so excited to celebrate with each of you. However, if you'd like to contribute to our newlywed life, we've put together a few ideas that reflect what we truly cherish:
Experiences and Memories:
We'd love to share a bottle of wine with you ten years from now, or enjoy a meal together at a favourite restaurant. Consider taking us out for dinner to a nice place you love or sending us a bottle of wine that tells a story.
Financial Future:
We're also focused on building our future together. Contributions to our savings or investment accounts would be incredibly meaningful and help us achieve our long-term goals.
Home Comforts:
We love art and plants. A piece of art that speaks to you, something you created, or a beautiful houseplant, would be more special than anything a registry could potentially offer. We live in NYC at the moment so maybe no banana trees yet.
Personal Enjoyment:
We enjoy the simple things in life, like a good cup of espresso, a home-cooked meal, taking photographs, a spa, and making music. Giving us the ability to enjoy any of these things is a gift we will cherish. (A unique wristwatch with a story is also something we would love.)
Ultimately, we value gifts that are thoughtful and meaningful. If you have a special idea in mind that reflects our passions or your relationship with us, then yes! (We also did look into registries and we’re just not convinced they’re the best deal; and we want everyone to get the best deals lol.)
We are so grateful for your love and support!
Where should I stay?
We recommend you stay within walking distance of the bride and groom. First, being within a short distance of the people you want to be around makes life wonderful. Second, we’ll be staying in a very safe and fun part of town.
If money is no issue for you, we recommend staying at the Sofitel or the Four Seasons in Chicó, Bogota.
There are also plenty of good AirBnBs in this area.
No matter your situation, the neighbourhoods to remember are:
Parque 93
El Virrey
Calle 85
Zona T
Chico
Antiguo Country
We know that traveling isn’t cheap, but staying in a sketchy neighbourhood in Colombia is not the way to save money. If you have any questions or want a thumbs up from an expert, feel free to text Diana (Daniela’s mom) who has graciously offered to run point for questions like this. Her phone number is in the footer of this website.
Is Colombia safe?
The TLDR: Yes. That being said, we do advise that you rely on us and ask if you’re planning on doing anything extravagant (like hiking) or looking for places to stay.
It is also advised that you don’t bring any sentimental jewelry or watches.
My mom - Daniela writing - would be more than happy to help you schedule your dream visit (she loves doing this) if you want to explore Bogotá or nearby spots.
If still in doubt, think, “What would a Colombian do?” and ask us.
What is a chiva?
All you need to know is that this is how we’re getting to our dancing venue on the 24th and you don’t want to miss it.
Can the altitude make me sick?
Yes, it can. Expect 1-2 days of very light activity to acclimate. Take it easy, drink water, and you’ll acclimate faster.
Are the events children friendly?
Yes, except the Chiva and Rumba to Andrés Chía. That event is 18+ and you need an ID.
The main event will be kids friendly but there is obviously loud music - if you have any questions about childcare and options to attend the event without kids, also let us know.
Where can I see amazing photos of the Miami wedding?
Simone Schiess took some absolutely incredible photos of our Miami wedding weekend. We highly, highly recommend her if you know anyone looking for a great photographer.
(pw: 24djmiami)
What should I know about Bogotá?
Altitude: 2800 mts (Beautiful mountains as you can imagine)
Weather: We don’t have “traditional” seasons like winter and fall. Everyday can be sunny AND rainy within minutes.
The english term for this is “sweater weather”. Bring layers. It’s a city - looking like you’re about to hike Everest will immediately make you stand out in the wrong ways. Jeans are still in, so pls, for your own wellbeing, NO shorts.
There’s a lot to do - A lot. Bogotá is incredible. History, food, nature, coffee, dancing, working out…
Do your research and ask us or WhatsApp +57 313-291-7346 if you’re thinking about anything specific to do.
We partnered with a local tourist company so we can get you the best and safest deals. Ask +57 313-291-7346
What is the best way to move around the city?
We will be providing arranged transportation choices for all of the proposed events.
For small/one time errands we recommend Uber (not taxis).
If you want a more structured transit option you can WhatsApp +57 313-291-7346 and we can help you coordinate a dedicated driver or help with car rentals.
If you stay in the recommended areas for hotels, walkability is high.
How many bird species are there in Colombia?
1,958 birbssss!
Do you have recommendations for shopping?
Oh yes. To name a few of our favourite local brands:
Whitman - Excellent Colombian clothing brand for men & women, also custom requests
Loto del Sur - Everything from fragrances to hand lotion to shaving cream, fully Colombian
Boutique roaming at Calle de los Antiquarios - Local designers making imaginative fashion items
Aramacao
Do you have recommendations for things to do if we arrive early?
Go hiking in Chingaza! (You’ll need a guide and to book in advance)
Monserrate (Take the tram or hike it! 45 minutes climb and great food on top, sit all day and sip coffee, bring sweater)
Gold museum - Actually underrated.
Coffee tasting tour - Talk to Diana
Historic city tour - Viator or AirBnB tours
Do Colombians tip?
Yes! And they’ll ask you if they can add it to the bill. The standard is about 7%.
Also, they’ll ask you how many “quotas” you want. Colombians basically invented Buy-Now-Pay-Later. Just say “una quota”, it’s not worth the complication.
***If you have a question and you don’t see it here please contact your preferred host (Julian or Daniela) and we will add it. Maybe other people also want to know the same.