What can we expect?

We want this to be foremost a memorable vacation, full of delightful and surprising experiences, where at some point we happen to get married. 

Mykonos may have a (well-deserved) reputation as a wild party spot, but we made sure to choose a date during a quieter time of year. Expect plenty of hum, but not the mobs of drunk college students.

It was important to us to have a space only for our guests, so anyone you see around the hotel pool during the weekend is here for the same reason you are. So go ahead and introduce yourself to the person next to you; they may well be just as interesting as you are.

Our guest list includes a mix of our small families and old friends from our respective hometowns (Boston and Park City, San Francisco, New York), colleagues from the technology world, a number of academics, financiers, some artists and athletes, grad school classmates…overall a youthful, smart, and adventurous crowd of about 150.

WHY GREECE?

Matthew suggested Greece early on, when none of the obvious locales (California, New York, Utah, Massachusetts) seemed to feel quite right. Because Tatiana’s family is Greek on her mother’s side, we liked the idea of a destination with some connection to our life and traditions. With the help of Matthew’s mother, Tatiana’s father, and our amazing planners at RT Events, we scouted a number of different islands around Greece…even after we were nearly killed by a hostile donkey (true story), we knew we had found a special spot on Mykonos.

Is this a Greek wedding?

We look forward to incorporating a number of Greek traditions throughout the weekend, but the wedding will not be taking place in an Orthodox church. You can probably expect to see some Greek dancing and music in the mix (Tatiana’s family will be offering lessons by the pool for those interested).

can we bring our kids?

Wedding-related events will be adults only. We certainly hope many of you will take this as an opportunity for a romantic getaway without the kids. 

But we also understand the appeal of Greece as a family trip, so for those who want to expose the younger generation to the fabulous history, culture, climate, and food Greece has to offer, the Utopia can serve as a great home base where child care can be arranged.

WHEN SHOULD WE FLY IN?

Plan on arriving no later than late afternoon on Friday, September 29th. Some family and friends will begin arriving as early as Monday the 25th. You're welcome any time during the week and we'll have informal events for early arrivers. We have completely privatized the Utopia Hotel from Friday through Sunday. Book your room at a negotiated discount rate here!

Can we make a vacation of it?

One of the main reasons we chose Mykonos was the convenience of an international airport. See the travel page for more details and suggested routes, several of which can be booked for less than $1,000 round trip. We plan to spend the week enjoying Mykonos ahead of the wedding and encourage you to join us.

If you'd like help creating a vacation exploring other parts of Greece or Europe, we recommend this concierge travel agency (mention our wedding and Nora will assist you) . Finally, a logistics tip: if you're coming from the U.S. and need to make a stop in Europe, because of how flights are scheduled, we've found it's better to schedule the stop on the way home rather than on the way to Mykonos. Some of the cheapest fares we've found have an overnight stay in Venice or Paris on the return — which we encourage you to consider a feature.

what should i wear/pack?

Wedding events: More elegant (it's a wedding after all), but see agenda page for detail on the whats and whys.

In general: Sandals, sundresses, shorts, swimsuits, sarongs, sunglasses…weather will be warm, sun will be strong, streets will be cobbled and often hilly. The island is windy and temperatures can drop at night, so throw in something light to cover up with.

can i book hair/makeup or spa services?

Mykonos has many more options for beauty services than other islands. However, most salons are in and around the main town, relatively far from the hotel, so you may find that the most convenient option is just to plan on primping yourself. If it’s a mani/pedi you need, nail services can be booked at the hotel.

The Utopia is known for its spa, so we strongly support indulging in one of their many exotic, sea-inspired treatments, or at least checking out their zen indoor facilities. You can also work out somewhere down there if that’s really what you plan on doing.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

There will be a mix of food options at all events that should accommodate all the vegans, celiacs, pesca-pescataraians, and Paleovores among us. The hotel kitchen is particularly well-equipped to handle a number of requirements.

how can we get around the island?

The hotel will be providing shuttles to and from all wedding events, as well as complimentary transportation to the Mykonos airport, and for drop-offs around the island, which is large and typically requires driving. Taxis can be arranged by phone, but service can sometimes be erratic, especially late at night. Rental cars and scooters are widely available, but probably not recommended or necessary unless you are planning a longer stay and/or to share it with friends.

How do we get to the welcome party?

Be sure to grab the map you’ll receive on arrival, take a hotel shuttle to the outskirts of town, and take in the sights as you walk. Helpers holding lanterns and dressed in white will be positioned in the streets to help you find your way. If you need to ask a local, Katrin's Restaurant is a well-known landmark right near your final destination.

How do we get to the wedding ceremony?

By getting to the lobby of the Utopia hotel on Saturday evening, and letting them transport you. There is no parking or access to the venue on your own. We’ll supply further details on your arrival.

Are you registered for gifts?

We have lots of stuff and don’t need more. The best gift you could give us is to find a way to come to our wedding and have a great time. What we all can always use more of are unforgettable experiences. We're looking forward to celebrating with you.