Newport First-Timer Tips

Since many of you will be experiencing Newport for the first time, we wanted to share some insider tips and final details to help make your weekend as smooth and fun as possible. As a reminder, check out the map + recommendations card included in formal invites mailed to you - lots of specific recommendations on there (all are Cristian + Matt vetted 😎)

Getting Your Bearings: Newport is pretty compact and walkable! The Cliff Walk (definitely worth a stroll if you have time) runs along the ocean, and most of the mansion tours and downtown shops are within easy walking distance of each other. Our ceremony at Castle Hill Inn sits on the southern tip, with gorgeous water views in every direction.

Thursday Night & Friday: If you're arriving early, Thames Street downtown is where you'll find most restaurants and nightlife. Friday afternoon, we'd recommend checking out the famous mansion tours (The Breakers is the most popular) or just walking around downtown to get the lay of the land before our welcome party.

Saturday Pre-Ceremony: Perfect time for coffee and pastries downtown, or if the weather's nice, grab a spot on the Cliff Walk for those Instagram-worthy ocean shots!

Day-Of Reminders

Footwear Reality Check: Castle Hill Inn's ceremony lawn is absolutely beautiful but can be unforgiving to heels! We genuinely recommend wedges, block heels, or flats. The grass can be soft in spots, and we want you comfortable and dancing all night.

Weather Prep: June oceanside weather can be perfect or perfectly unpredictable! It might be breezy (ocean air!), so consider bringing a light jacket or wrap for the ceremony. If it rains, we'll have a tent set up, but either way, you'll be covered.

Transportation: All the details are on our website, but just a heads up that we've got you covered for getting between venues! No need to worry about parking or directions.

Final Practical Bits

All the logistics (addresses, times, transportation details) are still on matthewandcristian.com if you need a refresh

Friday Welcome Party: Remember it's "California Coastal Casual" - think nice but comfortable, beachy vibes. Light layers, denim, and neutral tones.

Saturday Ceremony: Formal attire, but keep that grass situation in mind for shoes!

We seriously cannot wait to see you all and show you why we fell in love with Newport (besides falling in love with each other 😊). Thank you for traveling near and far to celebrate with us - it means the world.