Kiwanis Woodlot Park

Ceremony & Pictures

Ceremony

Reception

Highland Conference Center

Reception/Party

Can’t make it but get an invite

Fall

Our Wedding

Even though we thought we met in high school our time together extends to when we were kids. From going to the same daycare, to hanging out at her grandmother’s when we were both little. About 6 years ago we met in government class in our senior year of high school. It’s been a crazy journey since that year, full of fun, laughter, and joy. Even some tears. We have been able to make great memories during this crazy ride. Those would include being with family and friends, our crazy random late night road trips, and our trips to out of state or just to the other side of the state. 	Over the years we both have had our share of happy and sad moments. On October 13, 2019 Heather lost her great grandfather, John Howard. In 2021, on June 3 Austin lost his great grandmother, Janice Bennett and then on December 8 he lost his great grandmother, Billie Mae Peterson. Come April 17, 2022 Heather lost her grandpa, Bruce Hartman and then on May 13 she lost yet another grandpa, Don Sonne. Then, sadly we lost a beautiful little angel, Austin’s baby brother, Zach, passed away on October 23, 2023. 	Having had our sad moments together, we have had a lot of fun moments as well. We used to take random drives, meaning, we would just get in the car and drive. There was one point where we went to Billie Mae’s just to visit in Relliance, SD. We’ve also been to Huron, Yankton, and Chamberlain all by just picking a direction and driving. Most of the time we just got dinner and drove back home. Along with that we’d always make sure to travel to Heather’s parents in MN. We’d go over Memorial Day, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, and Christmas but only one to two of those a year. 	Come October 22, 2021 Austin decided “Eh I’ve stuck with her this long might as well put a ring on it”. We’re ENGAGED! Then came more sad news later on December 25 when we found out Heather had IDC (Invasive Ductal Carcinoma). We had a very hard next year, with chemotherapy starting right away at the end of January 2022, we knew it wasn’t going to be an easy year. Ending chemo in June we knew we were through the sickness part of this whole cancer experience. (HAPPY PART) July 1st we moved into our very first apartment together and starting our life just ourselves. Then in September she had radiation which she had to do for 6 weeks straight ending in October. Very happy to be done with all treatment we were very happy to be together and alive. 	Our 4 year anniversary brought lots of happiness when we added to our little family by bringing home our very own velociraptor we call Shadow, a 4 1/2 year old purebred German Shepherd. He’s been the light in the dark of a tunnel. Cancer is not easy on a couple. We got him at the most amazing time and he, honestly, brought us closer together. We are amazed everyday at what kind of craziness and laughter he bring to our lives everyday. 	We wouldn’t change anything that has ever happened to either one of us, cause, without all the hardships we wouldn’t have been strong enough to pull through and be here today vowing to love each other for the rest of our lives.

Our Story

Photos

Heather and I have been best friends since middle school! 11 years of friendship! Holy cow! I coldn’t see her with anyone better than Austin!

Kylee Martel

I have known the groom for about 11 years as we met in foster care. He’s been my best friend ever since! I couldn’t see him with anyone but Heather!

Trinity Ladwig

I’m friends with both bride and groom! Heather and I have been good friends for about 5 1/2 years now and we’ve been through it all!

Hannah Stevens

I have been friends with both bride and groom for about 5 1/2 years! Both are pretty awesome!

Jordan Thuringer

I came into their lives about 2 years ago.... actually its been 1 year and 9 months! From the day they brought me home I’ve turned their world upside down by bringing them moments of joy, laughter, and happy memories!

Austin & Heather

Austin & Heather

Photos