Tell us your love story!
We met through a dating app in 2013. We first connected over our mutual love of bourbon and it took off from there. I had just recently moved to Cincinnati, and Dean introduced me to the city. I’m not sure either of us were looking for anything serious but it soon became pretty obvious that we were heading there.
How did he propose?
We didn’t have a formal proposal, but the night of the June 2015 Supreme Court marriage equality decision Dean looked at me and said, “Would you marry me if I asked?” We announced our engagement at Dean’s birthday dinner one November 9th, 2016.
How did you choose your venue?
While studying Architecture at the University of Kentucky, Dean visited Shaker Village several times and fell in love with its charm, simplicity and architecture. Our original wedding idea was to have the reception in a friend’s tobacco barn, so the Meadow View Barn at Shaker Village was perfect. Dean attended a seed to table dinner at Shaker Village hosted at the Maple Grove so we decided to host our Friday evening welcome dinner there.
How long were you engaged?
11 months
What elements were most important for your wedding day to you?
We really wanted the evening to feel more like an extended cocktail party than a typical wedding. Everything just flowed from the ceremony to the cocktail hour to dinner. Shaker Village was very accommodating and served a signature bourbon cocktail we developed and a family pie recipe.
What advice would you give other brides/grooms?
There are no rules, so design the event that most reflects you. The flowers, the cocktails, the food, the lighting, the band and all the little details do matter. Also, plan your photos before the ceremony so that you can enjoy event and be present with your guests.
Vendor Spotlight:
Photographer: Fyrefly Photo + Films
Ceremony & Reception Venue: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
Caterer: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
Pies: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
Rentals: Purdon’s Rental & Sales
Transportation: Triple Crown Golf Cars
Hotel Room Block: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
Restrooms: Blue Moon Restrooms