Matthew & Shannon

June 6, 2025 • Cape May, NJ
49 Days To Go!

Matthew & Shannon

June 6, 2025 • Cape May, NJ
49 Days To Go!

Q + A

When should I book a place to stay?

ASAP. June is in-season and hotels, rentals, and Airbnbs fill up very quickly. See our Travel page for more info.

How long should I stay in Cape May?

Cape May is a great little town with a beautiful beach and lots of attractions and restaurants. You can easily turn our wedding into a vacation. See the Things to Do tab for inspiration. We'll be staying in town through the weekend and would love to meet up if you're around.

Are children invited?

Due to space constraints, the only children in attendance will be close family members. If you need baby-sitting services, Guardian Angel Sitting Services provides childcare in Cape May and the surrounding area.

What are the menu options for the wedding?

There are three choices, all of which are served with dinner rolls and Chef's choice of vegetable and starch. 1. First Cut Sirloin, served demi-glace au bœuf 2. Mediterranean Chicken with marinated artichokes, olives, roasted red peppers, diced tomato, and garlic sauce 3. Vegan Pasta Primavera with seasonal vegetables and nut-free pesto

Is there parking?

Yes, there is parking at Willow Creek Winery, where the wedding is being held. This being said, we will be offering shuttles between Willow Creek Winery and several spots in downtown Cape May. Uber and Lyft are also available throughout the weekend. There is metered street parking near Carney's where the Welcome Party is being held. However, we recommend walking to the party if at all possible if you're staying in town, as the closest available spots might be several blocks back from the venue.

What is the attire?

Our wedding is formal/black tie optional (cocktail dresses, gowns, or suits). Please note: the ceremony will take place on the Estate Lawn. If you're wearing heels, we recommend heel protectors or block heels.

Will there be meal options for guests with dietary restrictions?

Yes, our venue can accommodate dietary restrictions. Please inform us via the invitation RSVP.

Will there be an open bar?

Of course! Not only will we be serving wine from Willow Creek Winery at our wedding, we will also have beer, mixed drinks (including a few specialty cocktails), and non-alcoholic beverages available. We will also be providing alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for guests at the welcome party between 7pm and 9:30pm. Guests are welcome to stay at Carney's after 9:30pm, when it opens to the public.

What will the bride’s name be after she's married?

After the wedding, Shannon Elizabeth O’Hara and Matthew Richard Gomes will keep their own names, Shannon Elizabeth O’Hara and Matthew Richard Gomes. They will also still answer to existing nicknames or creative new ones, but only the ones that they like.

Any restaurant recommendations?

Glad you asked! Here are some of our favorites:

- Peter Shields: American, fine dining; BYOB

- Iccara: Italian; nice; BYOB

- 410 Bank Street: New Orleans; fine dining; BYOB

- The Blue Pig: American; nice; full bar

- The Ebbitt Room: American; fine dining; full bar

- Louisa's: Seafood; nice; BYOB

- Freda's Cafe: American; nice; BYOB

- George's Place: Greek; casual; BYOB, cash only, 2 locations

- Taco Caballito: Mexican; casual

- Washington Inn: American; fine dining; full bar

- Mario's: Pizza; very casual; BYOB

- The Rusty Nail: Bar food; casual; full bar

- Port: Bar food; casual; full bar; a drive but on the water

- Cape May Grilled Cheese Co: as described; very casual

- Delaney's: Bar food; casual; full bar

- Fish House: Bar food; casual; full bar; a drive but on the water

- La Dona: Mexican, casual, BYOB

- Andrea Trattoria: Italian, nice, BYOB