Wedding Day

Coventry Oaks Lodge - Firestone Metro Park

Ceremony

Reception

Summer

Our Wedding

It was a cold Friday night, January 5, 2018 to be exact. Amber spontaneously decided to get a drink by herself after work at the old Seasons Bar in Northfield. While waiting to order a drink she spotted the most handsome man that she had ever seen before. She knew the moment she saw him that he was special. Anyways, there was a girl ordering a drink next to her, they got to chatting, and she invited Amber to come hangout with her and her friends. Little did Amber know the handsome man was in this girls friend group. She introduced everyone and that’s when Amber got his name, Jake. We talked all night, danced and Amber had a splits contest with Jake’s best man, Mike McElligott. Amber then rushed out earlier than she wanted to having to work a double the next morning. Amber kissed Jake goodnight, Jake asked for Ambers phone number, and then our magical journey began 🤗

We first met

From January to August we had many wine and candy dates but Jake was dragging his feet. Finally! On August 18, 2018 we took our first trip together as a couple to Cincinnati to attend a G-Eazy concert. We stayed up all night just talking, walking around the city, and then watching the sunrise over the river while we laid on a beach under a lighted bridge. The next morning we continued to explore by going to the aquarium and an escape room in which.... we failed.

We officially became a couple

Let's Go Cavs! Here we are my first Cavs game in which Jake took me to. We've also done/tried so many new events/restaurants that really get us out of our comfort zones and make us feel so alive.

Lots of First Times

In 2019, we went to Colorado for Jake’s 30th Birthday. We had the most amazing time driving through the mountains, visiting local herb shops, and concerts at Red Rocks. Amber said “I love you” for the first time in the mountains under the stars and Jake instantly said it back.

First Plane Trip Together

Later that year, in August, Jake’s boss took us to Cedar Point to rides some coasters with his grandson. The following day on our way back home, his boss had made reservation for us to have dinner at a fancy French restaurant (Chez Francois) in Vermilion for our 1 year anniversary.

Our 1 Year Anniversary 

Jake quickly fell in love with Amber's kitties. Especially Dash. That is Jakes snuggle buddy. Jake &amp; Dash sleep right next to each other every night until Dash wants to go outside. He’s just like a dog. Dash will pounce on Jake’s chest or whine until Jake wakes up to open the window, meanwhile Amber sleeps like a rock 😅

Dash

Mama was a gift from God. She just wondered into the house and never left. Mama is the definition of a perfect kitty. With her big ole eyes and cute chubby cheeks, she can do no wrong. She is Jake’s little darling and he treats her better than most humans, including me.

Mama 

Oh Fluff. The princess of the palace. She’s a huge mama’s girl. She loves to play, watch for birds, and instigate the other cats. She loves laying and attacking Jake’s shoes, using them as pillows or shields when needed. She's your normal teenage girl, always sassy and always whining until she gets her way. She takes after her dad 😏

Jasmine aka Fluff

She is our newest addition to the family, after not fitting in at her previous two homes we couldn’t let her go to a shelter. There was some adjustment issues at first but she adapted so quickly and is now the most lovable lap cat. Our little pudge muffin has now found her forever home.

Miss Kitty

One of our favorite stories to tell. Jake took me here for our anniversary in 2021 and it was magical! We stayed in the Landoll's suite, which was at the very top of the castle with the best views. We went to dinner, walked around the trails, and got to explore each other even more under the beautiful stars. People were searching for ghosts in the graveyard next to us, it was so spooky.

Landoll’s Mohican Castle 

Amber's father owned property in Southern Ohio; a mountain top of woods overlooking the Ohio River. It was beautiful! With the news that it was being sold, Jake thought it would be the perfect place to propose. He asked me if I wanted to go down to the property on Saturday 8/13/22 to say my final goodbyes and hang out for the day. While sitting inside the cabin, Jake poured us some champagne into 2 plastic cups and said let’s go up to the rooftop and smoke. The sun was setting, the weather was perfect. Jake lit up, handed me a long letter, and stood back smiling. At the end of the note it asked if “Will You Marry Me?”. He then played a song that he had made for me, got down on one knee, and pulled out the ring. I was in tears as it was the most thoughtful thing anyone has ever done for me. He made it absolutely perfect!This picture was taken after we got home because we forgot to take one during all the excitement 😬

Jake Asked Me to Mary Him 😍

My little brother Jacob is such a good person. He’s so caring, helpful, thoughtful, and appreciates everything.Jake and I love to take him to do fun stuff. It’s a tradition for us to carve pumpkins and go to a haunted house every year for my birthday in October. In the picture we went to Maze Craze Corn Maze.We also love planning him surprise birthday parties which his friends have made into a holiday every December. Also fun fact, Jake and my brother Jacob have the same first and middle name, Jacob Ryan.

Jacob aka Our Officiant

We Bought a House 🤗

This is my other little brother. He was one of the smartest people I knew. He was extremely handy and always taught himself how to do anything. He loved playing video games and was one of the best. He enjoyed hanging out with friends and loved to party. One of my favorite memories with him was at Nelsons Ledges, we lit the trails with glow sticks, stayed up late walking around and having deep talks about life. Nate went through a bad breakup and was feeling lost. He met his new girlfriend, Andrea and she had my beautiful niece, Dallas. Nate was so excited to be a dad. He started working really hard to better himself and his life to be a good dad. Then suddenly On August 6, 2023, we received a tragic call. Nate was in a fatal car accident. He was supposed to come see our new home that day as we just got the keys days before. Loosing him has been extremely difficult. But I know he’s at peace and watching over his little girl. I know he’s here is spirit.

Nate

Grandpa (Okey), mom (Kim), mom’s boyfriend (Joe), Jacob and us. 

Part of the Fam 

Jim, Kathy, Amber (soon to be), Jake and Justin

The Hicks

Our Story

Gifted at everything she try’s, this amazing lady is one of the most talented people I’ve ever met. She’s always there anytime I need her and always gives me a boost of confidence when I need it most. She’s also the most honest person I know, having the courage to speak her mind. 

Jessy Pearl

This kind soul has always been like a sister to me. Growing up, I was a wild one, and she was a steady voice of reason. She’s one of the most selfless, caring people I know – always there with love support and zero judgement.

Stephanie Miller

This wild girl is one of the most fun people I know. Shes bold and that’s just part of her playful personality. I love that I can talk to her about anything – she’s always open minded and full of heart. A wonderful mother and a beautiful soul through and through.

Emilee Stewart

Jena is the coolest person you’ll ever meet. She’s incredibly easy going and has a way of turning everything into a good time. Seriously, she’s the sweetest human alive. Always helpful and dependable—I know I can count on her for anything.

Jena Stephen

“The Swiss Army Knife.” The Crew’s perfect Storm. Mike’s voice of reason and presence has kept members from getting their asses kicked multiple times throughout the years. From our bodyguard to our teddy bear, there isn’t much that he can’t handle. Mike’s the best of best-men making him the most important & versatile weapon in The Crew’s Arsenal.

Mike McElligott

“The Ice Breaker.” The Crew’s social butterfly. Full of personality, Justin makes light of any situation with his power to interact & converse with anyone. That attitude helps him break through obstacles that would make others crumble. He’ll always be the Head to take a hit or shoulder to lean on for the Groom. There isn’t a better brother in the whole State of Ohio.

Justin Hicks

“The Ice Age.” The Crew’s sloth. You’ll usually find him moving slowly and surrounded by trees but don’t be fooled, Greg’s level head and intellect is crucial to our group. Greg has the ability to react but not overreact. He’s a thinker, patient, & calculated. A true Warrior. Some may call Greg the Half Man/Half Amazing secret weapon in The Crew’s back pocket.

Greg Ferraro

“The Pitbull.” The Crew’s guard dog. When looking for loyalty, look no further than Gus. He is the one person the Groom can count on to be standing right next to him no matter what the situation is, even if that means staring down Death in the Valley. Always one to give the Groom Hope and confidence. Gus is by far the most loyal & unwavering member The Crew has. 

Gus Lenhard 

Wedding Party

Photos

Red Rocks

Champange Tower

Peoria

Cooksville

Science Center

Treehouse

Other World 

Wedding

Travel

Appetizers:Spinach &amp; Artichoke DipBacon Wrapped Water ChestnutsSwedish Meatballs Family StyleMain Course:Garden Salad with Italian or RanchChicken PiccataSteak Herb MushroomCheesy Pasta and Broccoli BakePotatoes Au GratinGreen Beans with Bacon &amp; OnionsRolls &amp; Butter

2:30 - 2:45pm Guests Arrive 3:00pm Ceremony Starts 4:00 - 5:00pm Cocktail Hour 5:00 - 5:15pm Greeting Guests 5:15 - 5:30pm Picture with each table 5:30 - 6:30pm Dinner Served 6:15 - 6:25pm Speeches/Toasts 6:30 - 6:40pm First Dances 6:40pm Dancing starts for everyone 9:30pm Last Call 9:45 - 10:15pm Goodbyes 10:15 B & G final dances

Event Timeline

Registry

Q + A

Things to Do

Holiday Inn Express

Some of our guests have booked rooms at this hotel. Unfortunately we were not able to get a wedding block of rooms. But you are welcome to call and make a reservation. This hotel is 10 minutes from the wedding.   Address:  898 Arlington Ridge E, Akron, Ohio, 44312

Amber & Jake

Amber & Jake

Photos