Castle Farms

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

Once upon a time, in the golden days of autumn 2021, two hearts—each guided by the gentle nudges of their loved ones—found their way to a most unexpected place: Tinder. Though neither Ariana nor Nick knew it then, their decision to download the app and keep an open mind would soon set in motion a love story written in the stars.On a crisp October evening, beneath the warm glow of candlelight at the Brass Cafe in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, their eyes met for the very first time. And just like that—love at first sight. A spark had been lit, one that neither distance nor time would ever dim.Only weeks later, Nick’s gentle nature revealed itself as he lovingly cared for Ariana after her wisdom teeth surgery—proof that true kindness doesn’t wait for grand gestures, but shines in the quietest moments. Their bond deepened, and on November 15th, 2021—yes, the opening day of rifle season, naturally—they made it official.The next two and a half years unfolded like chapters in a heartfelt novel. From Kalamazoo to Mount Pleasant, they braved the distance between cities, always choosing each other. Side by side, they cheered each other on through the highs and lows of college life—Ariana chasing her dream of becoming a podiatric physician, and Nick crafting his path toward a career in design engineering.Together, they created a tiny, joyful family with their first pets, sweet Gio the cat and playful Milo the pup—two fluffy reminders that love multiplies when it's shared.Then in July of 2024, a new chapter began. Ariana packed her life into boxes and followed her calling all the way to Florida to begin podiatric medical school. It was a move filled with purpose, excitement, and quiet sorrow, as the distance between them stretched farther than ever before. But love, as it always had, remained steady. Through long phone calls, visits across state lines, unwavering devotion, and their faith in Jesus, they proved once more that their hearts were stronger than any map.And then, on the sun-kissed sands of an empty Fort Lauderdale beach, with only the waves as witnesses, Nick knelt down and asked Ariana to be his forever. It was September 27, 2024—a moment out of a dream.Now, they stand on the brink of their next grand adventure: a wedding wrapped in joy, surrounded by those they love most. Their hearts are set on a future in sunny Florida, where Ariana will continue her journey through medical school and Nick will begin his career designing the world around them.And so, the girl with the big dreams and the boy with the kind eyes begin their forever.Because sometimes, even the most magical love stories… start with a swipe.

Once Upon a Swipe...

Our Story

Photos

Nikki is Ariana’s older sister and forever role model. She’s been by Ariana’s side through thick and thin, always offering unwavering empathy, support, and love. Whether in moments of joy or hardship, Nikki is always there. She and Ariana share a deep love for The Office, Harry Potter, and all things Disney—and they never fail to make each other laugh. Nikki is the BEST big sister anyone could ask for, making her the obvious and perfect choice for Maid of Honor. Nikki is cherished beyond words!!

Nikola Leibold

Faith and Ariana met in preschool and have been best friends ever since. They went through Catholic middle school and high school together, creating countless priceless memories along the way. Even though they attended different universities, they stayed close—visiting each other often and never letting distance come between them. Faith and Ariana share a one-of-a-kind bond; Faith just gets Ariana. They’re true ride-or-die besties, and Faith is the ultimate definition of a hype woman!

Faith Ignasiak

Holly and Ariana met in the fall of 2019 as freshman roommates at CMU and quickly became besties. They’ve shared countless amazing memories together—including both becoming fur mamas to their beloved kitties. Holly and Ariana bond over their love of animals, movies, and music. Holly is one of the most generous and thoughtful people Ariana knows—always a comforting shoulder to cry on and a cheerleader in the happy moments. Even now, they’ve remained besties across state lines, proving that distance means nothing when it comes to true friends!

Holly Paris

Divira and Ariana met through their dads, who worked as physicians at the same hospital. They attended preschool together and quickly became soul sisters. Even when Divira moved away during elementary school, their friendship never faded—they never let distance come between them. Divira and Ariana share a love for singing, musical theater, and movies, and they always laugh the hardest when they’re together. Divira will forever be a source of love and light in Ariana’s life—genuine, joyful, and endlessly uplifting.

Divira Pahwa

Demetri is Nick’s big brother and lifelong role model. They’ve shared countless cherished memories growing up—like duck hunting and endless fishing trips. With so many shared interests and hobbies, their bond has only grown stronger over the years. Together, they even started their own auto detailing business, with Demetri passing down everything he knew. Demetri will always be a source of love and support for Nick, making him the clear and perfect choice for Best Man.

Demetri Kotsonis

Zack is Nick’s first cousin on his mom’s side—and the person who makes Nick laugh the hardest. He always knows how to brighten Nick’s mood and remind him to look for the good in life. Zack and Nick have shared many fond memories hunting and fishing together, especially the hilarious moments when they were doing something completely ridiculous! Though Zack is technically a cousin, Nick has always considered him another brother—right alongside Demetri.

Zack McCreadie

Gabe and Nick originally met in elementary school in Shelby Township, quickly becoming friends on the playground. Although time separated them for a bit, they reconnected during driver’s training class their freshman year of high school—and their friendship took off, especially through their shared love of gaming. Gabe has been one of Nick’s closest friends ever since, and the two still game together nearly every day. Gabe has always been a caring and supportive friend who’s stood by Nick through it all.

Gabe Czernicki

Chad and Nick met in history class during their sophomore year of high school when they sat near each other. After sharing a piece of gum and some small talk, they quickly discovered a shared love of gaming. Soon, Chad, Nick, and Gabe were gaming together, and their friendship only grew stronger from there. Chad and Nick were roommates throughout college, creating many lasting memories filled with laughter and support. Chad has always been a thoughtful and supportive friend to Nick, through every up and down.

Chad Embree

Greta is Ariana’s niece—and the one who MADE Ariana an auntie! She’s the daughter of Ariana’s Maid of Honor, Nikki, and her husband, Jeff. Greta and Ariana share a special, loving bond where they can just be “girlies” together, enjoying all their fun, girly activities. Greta is a talented artist, dancer, and soccer player, and an AMAZING big sister to Liesel. She’s super STOKED to be the flower girl, and we all know she’s going to absolutely kill it!

Greta Grimsby

Henry is Ariana’s second cousin on her dad’s side and the son of Ron and Andrea Rabineau. He’s also the little brother to his awesome big sister, Mari. Henry loves Paw Patrol and tractors, and he’s the cutest, spunkiest little guy around. He’s going to make the most perfect and absolutely adorable ring bearer for Ariana and Nick, stealing everyone’s hearts as he walks down the aisle!

Ariana & Nickolas

Ariana & Nickolas

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