Historic Acres of Hershey

Wedding Day

Summer

Our Wedding

Who would’ve guessed--that two kids who went to the same elementary school, but never actually knew each other, would one day find their forever match? Brandon and Katie were each in the same grade as one another's siblings, but their paths never crossed back then, enough to form a friendship. Years later, during Christmas time, fate (and a good fish photo) brought them together. Katie came across Brandon’s Bumble profile, complete with him proudly holding up a huge fish, and decided to swipe right.After some friendly investigating, Katie quickly learned that none of her friends had any “dirt” on Brandon — he was a total lock box! At the time Katie &amp; Brandon started talking, Brandon was just visiting Binghamton for the holidays. Shortly after they started talking Brandon had filled Katie in that he actually lived in Albany, NY, not too far from where she had been teaching dance for the past two years right in Troy, NY.Their story began in the middle of COVID, when dating meant video chatting for hours every night long distance. Once they finally met in person, their connection only grew stronger. Their first date was a seafood boil — something that’s since become a special tradition for Brandon and Katie on vacations and anniversaries.Over time, the two have built a relationship full of adventures and laughter. From trips to Maine and Myrtle Beach to countless weddings and weekends at the lake. Every moment has made them grow along the way. Brandon taught Katie how to fish and golf (both with lots of patience), and Katie has been determined to teach Brandon how to dance (still a work in progress!). They have met each other’s closest friends, blended their families, and found joy in both the big and small moments together.For over four years, Katie and Brandon have navigated long distance — balancing a girl who loves the energy of the city, performing, and teaching, with a guy who finds peace in nature and the great outdoors. Together, they share a love for the ocean, the thrill of roller coasters, and the simple happiness that comes from being side by side — wherever life takes them.

Our Story

Photos

Becky Prutisto

Zak Roubelakis

Mikayla Sotak

Dan Barlow

Kasandra Roberts

Conor Roberts

Vreni Gust

Anthony Prutisto

Jenny Hillenbrand

Anthony Divirgillo

Maggie Bucci

Matt Porter

Aisha Jasper

Joel Newman

Carolyn Furlong

Ryan McMurray

Cassie DiPasquale

Wedding Party

Airbnb

Staying at an Airbnb can always be a great option! There are Airbnb's in surrounding areas from the venue.

The cutoff date for this rate is 7/15/2026.

Courtyard by Marriott Hershey Chocolate Avenue

Hampton Inn & Suites Hershey

Guests also have the option to reserve their room reservations by calling the&nbsp;Hershey Lodge Reservation office at&nbsp;855-729-3108 (toll free number), and asking for the room block for the&nbsp;Barlow / Sotak Wedding,&nbsp;August 14 - 16, 2026.&nbsp;&nbsp; *Please make reservation prior to Friday, July 4,&nbsp;2026.&nbsp;After this date, room prices&nbsp;may increase and/or rooms may not be available.&nbsp;

Hershey Lodge

Please disregard the auto populated dates and put in the dates above to receive discount.&nbsp;Dates are also available before and after the 14th and 16th. Please let us know if you are looking for an extended stay and we can let the hotel know! The cut off date for this rate is&nbsp;6/15/2026.

Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Hershey Chocolate Avenue

Barlow and Sotak Wedding Block.The cutoff date for this rate is 7/17/2026.

Sheraton Harrisburg Hershey Hotel

Lodging

Hersheypark is only a 16 minute drive from the venue, and you can smell the chocolate in the air as you are driving through town! Whether you are a roller coaster junkie or are looking to re-live those middle school band trip days- this is a must stop for the wedding weekend!

Hersheypark

Make sure to stop at Milton's Ice Cream Parlor- AMAZING ice cream in Hershey Park!

Milton's Ice Cream Parlor

Overlooking the town of Hershey, Hershey Gardens features a breathtaking assortment of flowers and shrubs, a stately collection of rare, signature trees, and various programs designed to delight visitors of all ages.

Hershey Gardens

Shop 'til you drop at the Tanger Outlets of Hershey!

Tanger Outlets Hershey

Lake Tobias’ signature attraction is a Safari Tour, about an hour outside of Hershey, Pennsylvania. See elk, bison, deer, antelope, flightless birds, and exotic animals like the Watusi (African cattle) and Asian Water Buffalo. In all, more than 500 animals roam freely across 150 acres of rolling hills.

Lake Tobias Wildlife Park

On this website you'll see a list of trails and hiking areas within 40 minutes from Hershey!

Hiking and Trails

Here is a list of breweries, wineries and distilleries to visit while you are in town:Troges Independent Brewing : https://troegs.com/beers/Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant: https://ironhillbrewery.com/location/hershey-pa/Rubber Soul Brewing Company: https://www.rubbersoulbrewing.com/Hidden Still Spirits: https://www.hiddenstillspirits.com/Cassel Vinyards of Hershey: https://www.casselvineyards.com/Grandview Vineyard: https://grandviewwines.com/

Breweries/ Wineries

Itching to know more about the State of PA? Check out the State Museum of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg!

State Museum of PA

Be sure to plan a visit to the Pennsylvania Capitol!

Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex

If you have always wanted to visit Gettysburg, you are only one hour away!

Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center

Lancaster, PA is about 30 minutes from Hershey. If you're interested in visiting for the day, this website will direct you to all things Lancaster!

Lancaster, PA

Things to Do

WEDDING ATTIRE

We are inviting our guests to wear Garden Party Formal! Garden Party Formal embraces timeless elegance with a touch of outdoor charm, perfect for a garden wedding. Picture light suits, floral prints, flowing dresses, and colorful hues that are sophisticated yet comfortable.

WILL THERE BE A SHUTTLE TO AND FROM HOTELS?

Information coming soon!

ARE CHILDREN INVITED?

We love your kids but thought you might like a night off. Adults only please!

ARE THERE HOTEL ROOM BLOCKS RESERVED?

Yes, we have five hotels that are currently under Barlow- Sotak. Please look at the Lodging tab for more information and to reserve your hotel room.

CAN I BRING A PLUS ONE?

Due to venue capacity, we are only able to accommodate the guests formally listed on each invitation. Thank you so much for understanding and we look forward to celebrating with you!

Q & A

Registry

Harrisburg International Airport

https://www.flyhia.com/

UBER/LYFT

Elizabethtown is an Uber &amp; Lyft friendly area!

Transportation/Travel

Hershey Park

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13TH, 2026If you're coming to town early, we'll be spending the day at the park! We hope you can join us!

Welcome Party

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14TH, 2026Information coming soon!

WEDDING DAY

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15TH, 2026 4:00PM- 10:00PMHistoric Acres of Hershey, Elizabethown, PAGarden Party Formal Attire

AFTER PARTY

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15TH, 2026Information coming soon!

Brandon & Kathryn

Brandon & Kathryn

Schedule

Hershey Park

Welcome Party

WEDDING DAY

AFTER PARTY

THE DAY AFTER