Crook Point

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Summer

Our Wedding

Brad and Zach, both from Southern Oregon, took nearly 30 years to finally cross paths. On active-duty orders to Fort Drum, NY, Brad never thought he'd find his person back in his hometown. Meanwhile, Zach, living in Oregon and working as an EMT, never expected his soulmate to be serving in the army thousands of miles away. It all started when our mutual friend Kyler, who, at the time, was in EMT classes with Zach, decided we'd be a good fit. Kyler told Brad that there was a guy in his class that he needed to meet. Brad, initially skeptical about long-distance relationships, had his doubts. But when Kyler's wife, Shelby, and Brad's best friend, showed him a picture of Zach, that was all the motivation he needed to slide into those DMs. With Shelby's nudge, Brad decided to take the plunge and shoot Zach a message. To his surprise, Zach responded, and before we knew it, we were knee-deep in conversation. It was like we'd known each other for years, swapping stories, sharing jokes, and discovering all the little quirks. Our conversations flowed effortlessly despite the miles between us; we were like two old friends catching up. We joked about the absurdity of our situation—Brad, a lawyer and soldier in New York, and Zach, an EMT in our hometown—falling for each other. After a couple of months of getting to know each other virtually, Zach came to the East Coast and visited Brad. What was supposed to be a five-day trip turned into over two weeks. We traveled long distances for the rest of that year, each taking turns visiting. Our relationship was tested further with Brad's deployment to Romania in the summer of 2023. We Facetimed daily, watched the same movies, and read the same books to keep us close while thousands of miles apart. Little did Zach know that in Romania, Brad decided Zach was the one and started planning the proposal. Once Brad returned from Romania, Zach made the big move to New York and started a new job at the hospital in Watertown. No more counting down the days until our next visit or staring wistfully at each other through computer screens. We were finally together, navigating the ups and downs of life side by side, with our dog, Pax, and kitties, Steve and Bucky. On March 29th, 2024, Brad asked Zach to marry him. Through his sobs, Zach managed to sputter a yes. One week later, Zach surprised Brad by proposing back at one of their favorite places in Oregon: along the Rogue River. As we plan our wedding back in Oregon, we marvel at the fact that we spent so much time in Southern Oregon without ever bumping into each other. We are two guys from the same small town who lived parallel lives until the invisible strings finally brought us together.

Our Story

Photos

Brad and Zach's best boy. Has been with Brad since 2017. Loves his other daddy, Zach. Brother to Steve and Bucky. Favorite things are walks, duck jerky, and acting like a human. Working on not barking at the nonexistent intruder at the door. 

Brad's little sister. Road trip and karaoke partner. Fisherwoman. Pickleball boss. Lover of books. Creative genius. Wedding planner extraordinaire. Known for her skills in Halo and ramming mom’s car into the house. 

Anna Johnson

Brad's little brother. First friend. Loves videogames and sports. Pickleball and tennis king. Dog dad to Theo and Maggie and husband to Lauren. If exposed to poison oak, entire body will be covered overnight.

Tanner Johnson

Brad's best friend. Daily confidant. Loves reading and cooking. Dog mom and wife to Kyler. Wishes she could spend her days eating croutons while rotting in bed with a book. 

Shelby Beck

Brad's friend and wedding officiant. Army reservist. Fancy. Giver of advice. Sommelier. World traveler. Believes he lives in an Earnest Hemmingway novel. 

Sam Hill

Brad's friend. Army reservist. Lover of bourbon.  Representative in Kentucky's House D.26. Dreams include running for president and running a mile without stopping. Constitutional conservative, yet two best friends are a liberal and gay man. 

Peyton Griffee

Brad's childhood friend. Plant enthusiast and avid reader. Loves riding her bike and anything creative. Dog mom to Theo and Maggie, and wife to Tanner. Toad's biggest fan and can do the perfect Marge Simpson impression.

Lauren Johnson

Brad's childhood friend. Travel buddy. Foodie. A creator who designs and sells innovative products. Once pouted for 30 minutes after Brad smashed his finger in Brussels.

Jake Stranahan

Brad's friend. Active duty Army lawyer. Survived an Iraq deployment. Longest snap streak award recipient. Kind soul. Home project manager. Cat mom. The only good thing to ever come from Ohio.

Hayley Mise

Brad's Cousin. 12 inches shorter but only 3 months younger. Once ordered by Brad to play a fence and was subsequently pushed down the stairs. Wife to Brandon and mom to Honeycomb. Gave up sprite for cocktails.

Megan Fry

Brad's friend. Lover of offensive jokes, and will probably be found building furniture. Dog dad to Otis and husband to Molly. Nurse. Wishes he was decent at videogames.

Noah Terando

Zach’s oldest friend. Native Californian. The Butch to Zach’s cookie. Lover of paddle boarding and dogs. Spends all her extra cash donating to dog rescues.

Jamie Hall

Zach’s sister. Certified ginger. Partner to Michael. Cat mom. Can be found at the Stage Stop Cafe  or relaxing at home. Good luck getting in touch as she never charges her phone. 

Kaylee Pierce

Zach’s baby sister. Kind soul. Lover of Charlie Brown and Thanksgiving. Future boss babe. Can be found with the rainbow girls or holding it down at Raley’s. 

Kitfox Blakemore

Zach’s longtime friend. Escaped Idaho and found home in Washington. Lover of music. Can be found at the gym or at home eating protein. We go JYM. 

Randon Fuentes

Zach’s friend. Yoga instructor. Professional dog walker. Partner to Lars. Ditched California to follow her dreams to Texas.

Cassandra Pacifico

Zach’s friend. Emergency room travel nurse. Dog mom to Newt. Refuses to believe food exists on rafting trips. Don’t count on her to parallel park.

Makayla Calloway

The one who started it all. Introduced Brad and Zach. Prior machine gunner. Survivor. Dog dad and husband to Shelby. Strongest of them all. Really hoping to make it to the wedding if Lymphoma doesn't take him out first.

Kyler Beck

Zach’s friend. Met over teeth. Gave up her career to become a flight attendant. Lover of her family and Orange theory. If found, present with wine. 

Leilani Richards

Zach’s big sister. Survived the trenches with Zach. Lover of her family and career in dermatology. Can be found listening to hood music in her Maserati. 

Rashel Holloway

Zach's friend. Nineties baby. Boss babe business owner/mother/wife.  Encourages others to build their own brand. City girls. Loves a good one-liner. 

Erika Reyes

Wedding Party

Beachfront Inn

The Wildflower Inn

These are just a few Airbnb options. Click <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.airbnb.com/</a> to search for more places to stay! <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/660159985361248599?guests=1&amp;adults=1&amp;s=67&amp;unique_share_id=1250a038-0fb8-4aae-adf3-2cd7f862600b" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/660159985361248599?guests=1&amp;adults=1&amp;s=67&amp;unique_share_id=1250a038-0fb8-4aae-adf3-2cd7f862600b</a> <a href="https://www.airbnb.co.nz/rooms/23394254?guests=1&amp;adults=1&amp;s=67&amp;unique_share_id=f8f39b74-4a18-4c8c-86f0-cc3f26824b30" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.airbnb.co.nz/rooms/23394254?guests=1&amp;adults=1&amp;s=67&amp;unique_share_id=f8f39b74-4a18-4c8c-86f0-cc3f26824b30</a> <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/639283523844189009?check_in=2025-07-03&amp;check_out=2025-07-06&amp;guests=1&amp;adults=8&amp;s=67&amp;unique_share_id=73dee48a-e4f9-491d-b77d-36d6f36e997a" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/639283523844189009?check_in=2025-07-03&amp;check_out=2025-07-06&amp;guests=1&amp;adults=8&amp;s=67&amp;unique_share_id=73dee48a-e4f9-491d-b77d-36d6f36e997a</a> <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/848667780317310981?check_in=2025-07-03&amp;check_out=2025-07-06&amp;guests=1&amp;adults=8&amp;s=67&amp;unique_share_id=83821dea-4f09-46a5-a2d1-52cb34e51499" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/848667780317310981?check_in=2025-07-03&amp;check_out=2025-07-06&amp;guests=1&amp;adults=8&amp;s=67&amp;unique_share_id=83821dea-4f09-46a5-a2d1-52cb34e51499</a> <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/654503746193424460?check_in=2025-07-03&amp;check_out=2025-07-06&amp;guests=1&amp;adults=8&amp;s=67&amp;unique_share_id=1691807b-5b97-4431-a821-82b0b6272579" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/654503746193424460?check_in=2025-07-03&amp;check_out=2025-07-06&amp;guests=1&amp;adults=8&amp;s=67&amp;unique_share_id=1691807b-5b97-4431-a821-82b0b6272579</a>

Airbnb Ideas

Near Curry Historical SocietyMake yourself at home in one of the 49 guestrooms featuring refrigerators and microwaves. Rooms have private balconies or patios. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms have shower/tub combinations and hair dryers.When you stay at SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Gold Beach in 

SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Gold Beach

Lodging

There are three airport options within 3 hours of Crook Point. Regardless of where you fly into, each is sure to have a beautiful, scenic drive throughout Oregon. MFR - Rogue Valley International Airport2 hour 45 minute drive<a href="https://flymfr.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://flymfr.com/</a> ACV - California Redwood Coast Humboldt County Airport2 hour drive<a href="https://www.flyacv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.flyacv.com/</a> OTH - Southwest Oregon Regional Airport2 hour drive<a href="https://cooscountyairportdistrict.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://cooscountyairportdistrict.com/</a>

Airports

Jet boat the ‘Historic Mail Boat Route’ just as Rogue River pioneers have done since 1895, when road access did not exist. We are one of the few remaining Mail Boats in the nation, and still deliver the mail to Agness, 32 miles upriver, on a daily basis. No whitewater here. Just a beautiful day on the Rogue River spotting wildlife, sharing history, and family fun. All tours leave from the Port of Gold Beach, located on the southern shore of the Rogue River. Tours will begin loading 15 minutes prior to scheduled departure time, so please arrive a minimum of 20 minutes in advance. The Historic Mail Route tour will have a bathroom break 1.5 hours after departure, and a meal break in the town of Agness (2 hours from departure). Provided meal at Cougar Lane Lodge is a BBQ Plate that includes Ribs, Pulled Pork, Brisket, Muffin, Baked Beans, &amp; Coleslaw. (Vegetarian options available upon request at lodge).

Jerry's Rogue Jets

Brookings Harbor Options: Ocean Kayak Fishing TourJoin us for outstanding fishing on the Southern Oregon Coast. We provide the kayak, gear, and guides on all of our fishing trips in Brookings. Ocean KayakingJoin South Coast Tours for a salt water paddle via the mouth of the Chetco River. Gold Beach Options: Scenic Flatwater Paddle on the Rogue RiverJoin South Coast Tours for a scenic paddle down a beautiful, calm stretch of the Rogue River. Port Orford Options: Orford Heads Snorkeling and Kayak TourGet a unique view both above and below the surface on this incredible kayaking and snorkeling combo tour. Whales and Wildlife Boat TourMarine Reserve, Whales and other Wildlife by boat!

South Coast Tours

Craggy bluffs, secluded beaches, and offshore rock formations await visitors along the 12 ocean-hugging miles of Samuel H Boardman State Scenic Corridor, located between Brookings and Gold Beach along Highway 101. This stretch of the highway features one turnoff after another, each with access to picnic areas, viewpoints and trailheads that connect an 18-mile segment of the Oregon Coast Trail. There are a couple of ways to experience this park:&nbsp;<a href="https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=main.loadFile&amp;load=_siteFiles%2Fpublications%2F%2F45470_OPRD_Boardman_Brochure%28web%29081813.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pick a trailhead</a>&nbsp;and spend the day hiking one of the sections, or stop at each parking area and explore its features.Here are some highlights to help plan your trip: Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint: A mile-long hike leads to breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and photo-worthy Oregon sunsets. The Cape is also an excellent spot for whale watching in fall and spring. House Rock Viewpoint: A memorial commemorates Samuel H. Boardman, the first Oregon State Parks superintendent and the park's namesake. The 4-mile trail between Cape Ferrelo and House Rock offers many side trails to secluded beaches. Whaleshead Beach: This oceanfront picnic area has gorgeous views and an easy, flat path to the beach. Natural Bridge: Follow a short trail to one of the best viewpoints in the park — the seven iconic arch rocks and blowholes known as Natural Bridges. Here you'll find a memorial to Dr. Samuel Dicken, who first envisioned the Oregon Coast Trail. Arch Rock: From the paved parking lot, a short path leads to an overlook featuring a series of offshore sea stacks and islands. Whether you hike all 18 miles or just 1/4 of a mile, take a moment to consider the multitudes who have walked the same worn path for millennia: Native Americans, explorers, gold seekers and settlers.

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

Best&nbsp;Local Tidepool Areas&nbsp; Before you go, check the local tide times! The tidepooling will be best at low tide, use this site to figure out the perfect time to go.<a href="https://aquarium.org/visit/tide-chart/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://aquarium.org/visit/tide-chart/</a> Myers Creek&nbsp;– Travel 7.1 miles south from the Gold Beach Visitor’s Center on Hwy. 101 to Myers Creek beach. This beach stretches south from the base of Cape Sebastian. Park at one of many overlooks and easy access points. The numerous rocks make for good tidepooling. Whiskey Creek&nbsp;– (Boardman State Park) – Approximately 14 miles south of the Gold Beach Visitor’s Center on Hwy. 101. Park in the gravel lot at the Boardman State Park sign. It’s a bit of a hike down to the beach but worth it. The rocky beach to the north lends itself to some first-rate tidepool exploration. Lone Ranch Wayside&nbsp;– (Cape Ferrelo) – Located 4 miles north of Brookings (Approximately 23 miles south of the Gold Beach Visitor’s Center), this area has ample parking, rest rooms and easy access to the beach. Large numbers of rocks of various sizes are scattered about the beach. There is an excellent inter-tidal area out on the cape to the north of the parking area. Rocky Point&nbsp;– 23.5 miles north of the Rogue River Bridge (turn left on gravel road just past the 305 mile marker). This inter-tidal area consists of a large boulder field surrounded by a gently sloping beach. It has easy access and provides good viewing opportunities.

Tide Pools

Salmon Run is a championship course designed as much by nature as by man. Where enthusiasts and purists alike will find a challenge for every club in their bag. A course that carries you along the path of spawning Chinook and Steelhead — and carries your game to a whole new level. Embrace the challenge and enjoy nature’s splendor.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y48v1VtkFeI&amp;index=1&amp;list=PLs5c0mOqW9VHINqDnSBR_xzG5mbKdOCEg" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">View Course Virtual Tour</a>

Salmon Run Golf Course

Six distinct links courses have been conceived in harmony with the natural environment. They combine with all the essential elements to reveal a new golf experience every time you play. The soul of the game resides here. Players walk. And at the end of the day, gracious hospitality comforts each guest like a warm, friendly embrace.

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort

If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to fill your time with the best a place has to offer — at least according to the locals — here’s a rundown of not-to-miss hits. Check the links for more information on what to do while you stay in Gold Beach.5 Day Itinerary<a href="https://visitgoldbeach.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Updated_Gold-Beach-5-Days-of-Fun_20220609.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Download Itinerary</a>

Five Days of Fun Itinerary

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park’s 10,000 acres are managed cooperatively by the National Park Service and&nbsp;California State Parks, as are Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, and Redwood National Park. A World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve, Redwood National and State Parks protect 45 percent of California’s remaining old-growth redwoods—an area almost four times the size of Manhattan Island.

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

Things to Do

Registry

1. What time should I arrive at the ceremony? The ceremony starts at 5:00 pm. We recommend guests arrive at least 30 minutes before the official start time to enjoy a glass of champagne and settle before the ceremony.&nbsp; 2. What is the dress code? Black tie formal. The attire for this wedding is black and white only. Since women do not traditionally wear white to weddings, and we will not have a bride, women are encouraged to wear floor-length gowns in white! In the alternative, black. The dress code for the men is either a black tuxedo or a black suit. Ladies, leave those red shoes at home! Chunk heels are recommended as the ceremony and reception are on grass. 3. Will the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception occur indoors or outdoors? The ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception will be outdoors, under the open sky, beneath the trees! 4. What will the weather be like? Coastal wedding weather provides&nbsp;cool breezes, sunny skies, and a beautiful&nbsp;atmosphere. During July, the average high is 67 degrees, while the low is 53. We will provide cozy wraps for the evening. 5. What will your wedding-day timeline look like?4:15 pm: Guests arrive5:00 pm: Ceremony5:30 pm: Cocktail hour6:30 pm: Dinner8:00 pm: Dancing10:00 pm: Late-night snack11:00 pm: Sendoff 6. How do I get to the wedding venue? Will transportation be provided? You can use a personal vehicle or a trolley. The trolley service departs for Crook Point from the Beachfront Inn in Brookings at 3:15 pm and 4:00 pm. The return trips start at 10:00 pm and 11:00 pm. Space is limited so please let Brad and Zach know if you'd like to use the trolley. 7. Is there parking available at the wedding venue? Yes, there is ample parking. 8. Can I bring my kids? Although we love your little ones, please refer to your invitation to see how many seats we've reserved in your honor. 9. What type of food and drink will be served during the cocktail hour and reception? We will celebrate with a cocktail hour, dinner, and bar service. There will be carnivore and vegetarian options for dinner, and spirits and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the evening. 10. I have dietary restrictions/allergies. What's the best way to let you know? Please get in touch with us directly by 21 May 2025 with any specific dietary restrictions so we may coordinate our caterer. 11. Have you booked hotel room blocks for guests?&nbsp;Yes! We've reserved a block of rooms at the Beachfront Inn in Brookings. The reservation will be held until 31 March 2025. 12. Can I take or post pictures during the ceremony to post on social media? We want to see the joyful faces of the people we love! Please turn off the phones and cameras and stow them until after the ceremony. When posting pictures on social media later, use our wedding hashtag or QR code to tag us and look for images of yourself! 13. What's your wedding hashtag? #shoretobeajohnson25 14. What's the best way to RSVP?&nbsp;Right here on the Knot! Look for the RSVP tab and type your name to find your invitation. 15. When is the RSVP deadline? 21 May 2025 16. I'm visiting from out of town. What can I do while I'm on the coast? Check out the Things to Do tab! It has ideas from around the area to show how wonderful Oregon is. If you have any specific questions, please reach out to us! 17. Do you have a wedding registry? Your presence at our wedding is the greatest gift we could ask for. If you want to honor us with a gift, we accept donations to our baby fund! 18. Can I bring my gift to the wedding? Yes! We will have a designated area for gifts. 19. When will the reception end? Will there be an after-party? The reception will end at approximately 11:00 pm. Please join us for a late-night snack at 10:00 pm! 20. How will you communicate updated information and/or changes before the wedding? All updated information will be found here on the Knot. 21. What's the best way to contact you if I have additional questions? Please reach out to us directly!Brad: 541-301-0199Zach: 619-200-8190

Brad & Zach

Brad & Zach

Lodging

Beachfront Inn

The Wildflower Inn

Airbnb Ideas

SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Gold Beach