Wedding Day

Ceremony

Flint Farmer’s Market

Reception

Our Wedding

Like most modern love stories, theirs began with the ancient ritual of swiping right on Hinge. Austin somehow managed to craft a profile compelling enough to catch Alexa's attention (probably the cool photos playing saxophone), and soon they found themselves meeting at Cafe Rhema in Flint for what would either be a delightful first date or material for their future stand-up comedy careers.Spoiler alert: it was delightful.What started as coffee quickly evolved into long walks where Alexa discovered her true calling: lovingly talking Austin's ear off about everything and nothing. Austin, with his endless patience and genuine interest, not only listened to every word but fell in love with Alexa's passionate way of seeing the world. Meanwhile, Austin's kindness to everyone he meets , from baristas to strangers on the street, shows Alexa daily what a beautiful heart looks like in action. Bob, their wonderful cat who has since passed, quickly became their biggest supporter and the unofficial mascot of their love story.As their relationship blossomed, they developed an elaborate nickname system that would make SpongeBob SquarePants proud. Austin became Squiddy (still working on whether this is a compliment), and Alexa became Sponge, though they promise it's because of her absorbent listening skills and not because she lives in a pineapple under the sea.Then came the moment that proved they were meant to be: THE GREAT LOVE LETTER COINCIDENCE OF 2022. As Alexa prepared to leave for an out-of-state travel nursing contract, both of them independently decided this was the perfect time to pour their hearts onto paper. Same night. Same plan. Same romantic gesture.When they both pulled out handwritten love letters at the exact same moment, they realized they were either soulmates or equally terrible at planning. They're going with soulmates. In that moment, declaring their love felt like the most natural thing in the world because it was exactly what their hearts were ready to say (and apparently, what their brains were ready to overthink in letter form).After Alexa returned, Austin began secretly planning the world's most thoughtful proposal. While Alexa poured her heart into her nursing career, Austin was painstakingly designing the perfect ring: one that would represent all the love and dreams they'd built together. In November 2024, he got down on one knee and asked the question both their hearts already knew the answer to.She said yes, with tears of joy and laughter. Even Bob seemed to celebrate from home (probably by knocking something off a table in their honor, as cats do when they're moved by romance).Now here they are, ready to promise forever to each other in front of all the people who matter most to them. They can't wait to celebrate this next chapter of their love story with everyone, where Austin will continue listening to every word Alexa says with the same wonder as day one, and Alexa will continue being amazed by Austin's beautiful heart. As a family of four Austin, Alexa and their two kitties, Porter and Stout!They're still Squiddy and Sponge, still taking those long walks, and still believing in the magic of two people who somehow found exactly what they were looking for in each other.Here's to a lifetime of love letters, endless conversations, and being perfectly ridiculous together. Austin and Alexa can't wait to celebrate this amazing journey with all of you at their wedding!

Professional Yapper Seeks Patient Listener: A Love Story

Our Story

Photos

The bride's partner-in-crime since the womb, guaranteed to roast her in the speech but cry during the vows.

Claudia Espiscito

The groom's brother, professional artist, and devoted servant to his cat overlord Yuki.

Andrew Tripp

Best friend and emotional support system who ugly-cries at puppy videos but never lets the bride fall apart.

Emily Johnson

The groom's best friend since 6th grade who can spot a rare warbler at 100 yards and knows all the groom's rare embarrassing moments.

Matthew Cocagne

Dance floor MVP who doubles as a bridesmaid when she's not busy getting down.

Gabbi Klauke

Cousin of the groom and stats whiz who proves you can be both wickedly smart and genuinely wonderful.

Zachary Ginder

Professional life-saver who treats bridesmaid duties like another shift at the hospital - with skill and caffeine.

Alexis Kerr

The groomsman who objects to boring weddings and sustains the good vibes. He knows his way around Detroit and will never leave you hanging (or empty handed)

Ben Hendrickson

The bridesmaid who's basically the bride's personal comedian and happiness insurance policy.

Annie Karasch

The groomsman who knows the groom's rhythm in music class and his lack of rhythm on the dance floor.

Jake Finkbeiner

Social worker by day, beauty consultant by night, therapist for the bride's fashion disasters always.

Kaylin Ashbrook

The bride's little sister who went from telling on her to telling everyone she's married.

Emma Francis

The bride's little sister who finally gets to show off those years of school presentations and teacher voice.

Audra Francis

Wedding Party

Semi-formal works great! We want everyone to feel comfortable while looking nice for photos. Think cocktail party vibes - dress it up a bit from everyday wear, but no need to stress about being too formal (unless you'd like to!)

Dress Code

Q + A

Please book through this link by 5/23/26: Located in Flint, 14 miles from Clio Area Amphitheater, Hilton Garden Inn Flint Downtown provides accommodations with a fitness center, private parking, a shared lounge and a restaurant. With free WiFi, this 3-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and a business center. Guests can use a bar. Guest rooms at the hotel come with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer. The rooms will provide guests with a fridge. Guests at Hilton Garden Inn Flint Downtown can enjoy an American breakfast. Michigan'S Military And Space Heroes Museum is 27 miles from the accommodation, while Fortress Golf Course is 28 miles away. Bishop International Airport is 5.6 miles from the property.

Hilton Garden Inn Flint Downtown

Travel

Want to explore our venue before the big day? The market is open 9-5 for regular vending/shopping Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. The rooftop bar, Market Tap, is also open Friday evening. Stop by Bagel On The Run and see Mitch for our favorite bagel breakfast sandwiches or try a delicious arepa from I Love Pig - both are our favorites!

Flint Farmers' Market

Grab a coffee or snack where we met and had our first date! If you want to get REALLY accurate, order a chai tea and plain cold brew in honor of Alexa and Austin.

Cafe Rhema

Visit one of our favorite restaurants within walking distance to downtown and the venue to grab a bite to eat or drink! Ask for the "Nirvana" to have your drink served in the cutest buddha shaped glass, Alexa is obsessed.

Alexa & Austin

Alexa & Austin

Q + A

When and where is the wedding?

What time should I arrive?

Is there parking at the venue?

Will the ceremony be indoors or outdoors?

What is the dress code?

Will there be a cocktail hour/reception?

Are children invited to our wedding?

When is the RSVP deadline?

Can I bring a plus one?

What will be served for dinner?

Will there be a hotel block?

Where can I find your registry?

Can we request songs for dancing?