Old Kinderhook

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

So High School"I'll never forget the first day of high school I saw this really cute boy with tan skin and a mullet. I knew I had to have him." -AveryAvery and Luke met in high school and were friends until their Junior year when they sat next to each other in a class and grew really close. As they were both on the men's golf team, they started playing together after practice and Avery eventually invited him to go to Top Golf with her family. For two years she watched him play soccer, he watched her cheer on the football and basketball teams, as well as participate in many extracurricular clubs together.Avery and Luke dated through high school and did long distance through college for 5 years, but still saw each other almost every weekend. Summer has always been their most special time together and they never miss a lake weekend. Fast forward through school, they found jobs in Jefferson City and were finally able to end the long-distance.

How it Started & How it's Going

April 26th, 2026In Avery's words, "I can't be surprised." After they went ring shopping Valentine's Day weekend, Avery couldn't help but overthink when, where, and how Luke would propose. Lucky for Luke, she convinced herself he would propose on their family vacation in June, but he had other plans.One evening on a walk, Luke casually suggested a date night for the upcoming Saturday. They decided they'd go to a few restaurants for appetizers and drinks then go for a hike at Haha Tonka. On April 26th, the date night began at one of their favorite spots—Pebble Bay—for a drink and some nachos. Coincidentally, the bartender asked if they were engaged yet. After another stop at River Bird Winery, they headed to Ha Ha Tonka, where Avery’s best friends Jamie and Natalie, along with Max, their future wedding photographer, were secretly waiting.As Luke and Avery reached the overlook platform, Avery was stunned to find it beautifully decorated with flowers, a blanket, a picnic basket, and wine glasses. Even with a group of kids loudly whispering questions like “Is he going to propose?” and a photographer hidden in the woods, Avery was completely caught off guard. One little boy even asked his mom, “Is he going to propose?” to which she answered, “I’ll tell you in a minute,” just as they walked past the couple. Luke proposed, and Avery said yes!Afterward, they were joined by their closest family and friends for a surprise celebration at the Old Kinderhook Trophy Room—an unforgettable evening to kick off this exciting new chapter.

The Proposal

Our Story

Q + A

Old Kinderhook Lodge

There are rooms, cottages, and houses available for rent by calling 573-317-4314 or at OldKinderhook.com using the code 092626ADMA under "Group Attendee."

Old Kinderhook Resort, Golf Club

Travel

Take advantage of your stay and get a round of golf in on this beautiful course. Please let us know when you RSVP if you would like us to reserve you a tee-time for Friday 9/25.

Old Kinderhook Golf Course

A great place to grab a quick lunch or breakfast.

The Hook Cafe

Treat the family to a delicious dinner during your weekend stay.

The Trophy Room at Old Kinderhook

Worried about entertaining the kids? There are several indoor and outdoor pools as well as a hot tub. There is also a basketball, pickleball, and tennis court. Make it a fun weekend getaway with the family.

Entertainment

See the place where Luke proposed! Ha Ha Tonka has many beautiful trails to explore with incredible views of the lake as well as castle ruins. It's a short drive down the road from Old Kinderhook.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Enjoy a tour of Bridal Cave with the family while you're here!

Bridal Cave & Thunder Mountain Park

Start the day with a relaxing massage or facial before the wedding!

Driftwood Spa at Old Kinderhook

Accessible from the Kinderhook property, Pebble Bay is a great place to grab dinner and drinks on the water.

Avery & Luke

Avery & Luke

Photos