Retreat in the Woods Event Venue

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Fall

Our Wedding

It all started in December 2022 at a work awards ceremony. I saw Geoff across the room and I was instantly intrigued. I thought, "that man is DANGEROUSLY handsome!" So, naturally, I asked a co-worker who he was. When she told me he had a girlfriend, although sad, I quickly put him in the “not available” box and moved on. Over the next year, I’d see him a few more times at work events and still feel that weird magnetic pull, but I kept telling myself, “Nope, not gonna pursue him.” Then, fast forward to November 2023— We were paired together at a work volunteer event for the day, and Geoff was so chatty, asking me question after question. I was still convinced he had a girlfriend, but then I found out… plot twist… he was single! Suddenly, I was all in. We talked the entire shift, bonded over how weirdly alike we were, and by the end of the day, we were practically inseparable. Since then, we’ve been having way too much fun together. I’ve always wanted to get married, but I never thought I’d actually find my person. I dreamt of love, but I never imagined something this amazing! It’s so much more than I could ever dreamt of. Geoff never saw himself settling down or spending his life with someone—it just never felt right. But when we met, everything changed. We never thought we’d find a love like this—but here we are, living the most beautiful dream together.

Our Story 

Photos

Courtney and I have been best friends since first grade, and she’s one of the main reasons I moved to North Carolina from Michigan. We always have the best time together, and I can always count on her to be honest with me. Whether it’s sharing laughs or offering solid advice, she’s been a constant support and is someone I’m beyond grateful to have in my life. I’m so excited to have her by my side on this special day!

Courtney Gruits

Chelsey and I have been friends since 2019, and I’m so lucky to have her by my side. She’s incredibly silly, funny, and smart, and we always have a blast together! Whether we’re cuddling up on the couch with cookie dough and pizza or going on spontaneous adventures like dumpster diving, she brings joy and laughter wherever she goes. I couldn’t imagine my big day without her!

Chelsey Bombard

Tristan has been by my side through so much, and I honestly can’t imagine my wedding day without him there. From childhood memories to life’s biggest moments, he’s always been my rock. I’m so grateful for our bond and the laughter, love, and support he’s brought into my life. Having him as my Man of Honor is truly special, and I’m beyond excited to have him stand with me on this amazing day.

Tristan Hanselman

Janay and I have been friends since elementary school, making her one of my longest and most cherished friendships. We always laugh until our sides hurt, and I’m so grateful for her unwavering support and adventurous spirit. Whether we’re tackling new experiences or just enjoying each other’s company, she’s always there with a smile and ready for the next adventure. I’m thrilled to have her by my side on this special day!

Janay Peterson

Tom is one of Geoff’s closest friends, and they have a blast together, whether they’re riding jetskis, working on them, or tinkering with dirtbikes. Tom has been a solid, reliable friend to Geoff, always there for him through thick and thin. Their bond is built on years of shared adventures, and I’m so happy to have him standing by Geoff’s side on our special day!

Tom Bramich

Warren is Geoff’s older brother, and they share a love for adventure. From ski trips a few times a year to countless other memories, they always have a great time together. Warren’s incredible sense of humor keeps everyone laughing, and his support and camaraderie mean the world to Geoff. I’m so excited to have him by Geoff’s side on our wedding day!

Warren Kral-Haack

Jason and Geoff grew up together as neighbors and became lifelong friends—and drinking buddies along the way! Through the years, he’s always been there for Geoff, supporting him through thick and thin. Their friendship is built on years of shared memories, laughter, and loyalty, and we’re so grateful to have him standing by Geoff’s side on our special day.

Jason Flick

Mike and Geoff grew up together and were roommates for many years, building a friendship that’s always been full of support and laughter. They love riding dirt bikes, go-karts, and spending time in the garage working on projects. Mike has always been there for Geoff, and their bond is one of trust and adventure. We’re excited to have him by Geoff’s side on our wedding day!

Michael LaConca

Matt and Geoff grew up together as neighbors and have been through a lot over the years. Their friendship has been built on countless memories, good times, and, of course, shared adventures. We’re thrilled to have him by Geoff’s side on our wedding day!

Matt Bronson

Wedding Party

Q + A

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/710944259891846822?check_in=2025-09-26&amp;check_out=2025-09-28&amp;guests=1&amp;adults=1&amp;s=67&amp;unique_share_id=24ffd8f0-9513-42eb-9a9a-a1ae422f7ae8 Relax with the whole family in this peaceful recently renovated house. The Wesley house offers 5 bedrooms 3.5 baths, dedicated office space, and a beautiful outside oasis with a large deck and patio. It also offers an outdoor fire pit, a 2 car carport and a circular drive way.The spaceFour spacious bedrooms including 1 King and 4 Queen beds. All bedrooms include smart tv's, room darkening curtains, and the Queen bedrooms include custom luggage racks. There are 3.5 bathrooms. The master has an ensuite bathroom with two sinks and a walk in shower. There is a hall bathroom with a full bath tub and the 3rd bathroom has a large walk in shower. The large half bath is shared with the laundry room. All bedrooms have memory foam mattresses with luxurious linens and pillows. All bathrooms include plush towels and the showers include shampoo, conditioner and body wash soap dispensers. This well stocked kitchen has everything you need to cook family meals including pots and pans, casserole dishes, crock pot and a mixer. The kitchen also comes fully stocked with a selection of Keurig coffee and tea as well as sugars and creamers. Although coffee is not provided, there is also a regular coffee pot for brewing a large pot of coffee. The house has two separate family rooms for relaxing on very comfortable sectionals. One of these rooms includes a skeet ball, air hockey and foosball table. There are also plenty of board games located in the office cabinets. For the corporate worker, there is a dedicated office secluded from the rest of the house should you need to work or make private phone calls. There is also a full sized washer and dryer.Guest accessGuests have full access to the house. There will be some locked owners closets that guests will not have access to. Guests are welcome to park in the circular driveway or behind the house in the carport. Please note there is a rentable cottage located behind this property but both guests have their own private entrances and yard space so your privacy should not be interrupted.

5 Bedroom Airbnb in Indian Trail , NC 

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/956509164132749969?adults=1&amp;search_mode=regular_search&amp;check_in=2025-09-26&amp;check_out=2025-09-28&amp;source_impression_id=p3_1735500426_P3lC3S9UYTmBi3vf&amp;previous_page_section_name=1000&amp;federated_search_id=77acabb5-f972-4bf3-b30f-8f697da7f2b8&amp;modal=PHOTO_TOUR_SCROLLABLE The studio space is attached to the main residence and is completely self-contained and private. It is a quiet place at the end of the day to relax and unwind at this peaceful oasis after a day of work or enjoying the city vibe of the Charlotte scene with its fine restaurants, galleries, shopping or a night out on the town. Private EntrancePrivate BathroomOpen Bedroom/Living AreaOff-Street ParkingFull KitchenPantryOn site laundryFurnishedCable TVWiFiThe spacePrivate entranceOff street parkingOn site laundry Bedroom/Living AreaFull KitchenFull Bathroom: Shower/Commode/Sink Nature Preserve with walking Trail Bistro area on covered PorchWiFiCable TV

Studio Airbnb in Mint Hill, NC 

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/757284196480252917?adults=1&amp;search_mode=regular_search&amp;check_in=2025-09-26&amp;check_out=2025-09-28&amp;source_impression_id=p3_1735500426_P36XtfGHefuIwT-P&amp;previous_page_section_name=1000&amp;federated_search_id=77acabb5-f972-4bf3-b30f-8f697da7f2b8 Private, peaceful, sunny, spacious newly remodeled 3br/2b ranch (1686sf)! Great neighborhood. Mins to Austin Village Plaza with lot of shops and restaurants. Easy access to I-485 and I-74 towards uptown Charlotte. 6 mins to parks with picnics, trails, lakes, playgrounds and sports facilities. Fully equipped big kitchen, spacious living areas, separate dining room, dedicated work space, harmony with nature big private backyard. This beautiful home offers convenience, comfort, peace &amp; relaxation.The spaceStep-Free Access | Private yet Convenient Location | Easy Freeway Access | Spacious Cozy One-Story Ranch Home with Soft Water System l TV in living room and all three bedrooms! Nestled in a very quiet cul-de-sac. The entire house has soft water system which is gentle and nice to skin and hairs… The peaceful private big backyard basically under nice shade in the hot summers, provides joyful walk or play accompanied by the harmonious yet musical bird singings! This open floor plan house remolded based on the vision: rustic meets modern touch and comfort in order to merge seamlessly with the harmony with nature yard and surroundings. We hope you enjoy the beauty of the house: tranquility, comfort, relaxation, natural, private and the suburban serenity in a convenient location… BEDROOMS:Bedroom 1: King Bed, Baby Crib | Bedroom 2: Full Bed, Air Mattress* | Bedroom 3: Twin Daybed w/ Twin Trundle, Japanese Floor Mattress*, Work Desk* Air Mattress and Japanese Floor Mattress are available if requested 24 hours prior to checkin INDOOR LIVING: Decorative fireplace, 55” Smart TV in living room, 40” Smart TV in main bedroom, 32” 32” Smart TV in Bedroom 2, Smart TV in Bedroom 3, Roku &amp; Netflix, 4 seaters breakfast table, 6 seaters solid natural wood dining table, extra full-size futon, leather couch. OUTDOOR LIVING: Large peaceful backyard, outdoor seating, family-friendly &amp; quiet cul-de-sac location. KITCHEN: Cooking basics, dishwasher, coffee maker, stainless stove/oven, refrigerator &amp; freezer, microwave, blender, dishware &amp; flatware, toaster, children's dishes &amp; silverware, salt and peppers, coffee… GENERAL: Free WiFi, keyless entry, in-unit washer &amp; dryer, laundry detergent, complimentary toiletries, linens &amp; towels, central heating &amp; air conditioning, hair dryers, iron/board, wood hangers, extra pillows &amp; blankets, luggage racks, trash bags &amp; paper towels, softened water, shampoo/conditioner/bath soap… PARKING: Long private Concrete Driveway fits 4 more regular cars and is also ideal for working team with long working trucks. CLEANING: We have a local team service our home prior to your stay. If something is not up to standard, please bring it our notice by phone or through the booking platform within 6 hours of arriving. This allow us to address the issue and bring it up to our standard.Guest accessENTIRE house except shed, locked spaces such as crawling space, attics, hallway closets and the equipment area.Other things to noteNestled in a very quiet cul-de-sac. The entire house has soft water system which is gentle and nice to skin and hairs… The peaceful private big backyard basically under nice shade in the hot summers, provides joyful walk or play accompanied by the harmonious yet musical bird singings! This open floor plan house remolded based on the vision: rustic meets modern touch and comfort in order to merge seamlessly with the harmony with nature yard and surroundings. We hope you enjoy the beauty of the house: tranquility, comfort, relaxation, natural and the suburban serenity in a convenient location… Welcome!

3 bedrooms 5 bath AirBnb in Matthews, NC 

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/781034145036363317?adults=1&amp;search_mode=regular_search&amp;check_in=2025-09-26&amp;check_out=2025-09-28&amp;source_impression_id=p3_1735500426_P3TRIMtgVxHiTmas&amp;previous_page_section_name=1000&amp;federated_search_id=77acabb5-f972-4bf3-b30f-8f697da7f2b8 About this spaceRelax with the whole family at this peaceful place to stay. Amazing cabin on a 3 acre lot of woods in a central location close to restaurants, shopping centers, groceries, movie theater and around 15 minutes away from Charlotte. the cabin was renovated yet still preserve its rustic structure/architecture. book and enjoy whether your stay is for vacation or a business travel. The place is very cozy and spacious. it does retain a rustic and beautiful setting. it is very close to town, shopping center, movie theater, and restaurants. Charlotte is about 25 minutes away.

8 guests3 bedrooms5 beds2.5 bath AirBnb in Indian Trail, NC

Hyatt House Charlotte / Rea Farms

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charlotte Southeast - Matthews by IHG

Travel

Explore the U.S. National Whitewater CenterThe U.S. National Whitewater Center is just outside of Charlotte and offers tons of outdoor adventure, including whitewater rafting, kayaking, zip-lining, mountain biking, and hiking.

U.S. National Whitewater Center

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden helps all find their path to nature in all seasons. The breathtaking Visitor Pavilion welcomes visitors to 30 acres of spectacular gardens including the Lost Hollow Children’s Garden, a conservatory dedicated to the display of tropical plants and orchids, a dry Piedmont Prairie, annual and perennial displays, sparkling fountains, walking trails and more.

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

Charlotte Premium Outlets

Come relax and enjoy your day with us!&nbsp;Buy wine by the glass or bottle at your convenience.Small complimentary tastings based off preferences offered every day. Full tastings offered every day on the hour starting at 12pm. Visit Plan A Visit for more information.&nbsp;Please make sure to bring a valid physical ID with you. Hours:Sunday through Thursday 12-6pmFriday &amp; Saturday 12-10pm Check calendar for any changes in hours, closures due to private events, or inclement weather

Treehouse Vineyards

Time travel to the greatest party since Camelot! Take an autumn stroll through the wooded Village of Fairhaven where history comes alive with non-stop, day-long, immersive and interactive entertainments like no place else!&nbsp; Shop an abundance of arts and crafts in the village open-air Artisan Market! Adventure awaits with games and rides, valiant jousting knights on horseback, majestic falconry, beautiful mermaids and fairies, friendly dragons, feasting, and so much more! Come one, come all for non-stop, day-long adventure!

Carolina Renaissance Festival

Brakeman's is located in our quaint little town of Matthews, NC. It's one of Geoff &amp; my favorite coffee spots! Try their Pistachio Latte (Geoff's fav) or Lavendar Iced Matcha (Brie's fav)! P.S take a peek around the back of the building - they have the CUTEST hidden garden area perfect to enjoy your drink and pastries!

Brakeman's Coffee & Supply

Idlewild Road Park in Matthews, NC, is a beautiful 125-acre green space perfect for guests looking to enjoy some outdoor time during their visit.It features a 1.5-mile shaded nature trail, an 18-hole disc golf course known as The Scrapyard, athletic fields, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and access to the Irvins Creek Greenway. Located just a short drive from downtown Matthews, it's a great spot to relax and explore the local scenery

Idlewild Road Park

One of our favorite spots in Matthews! Geoff and I highly recommend stopping by Seaboard Brewing, Taproom &amp; Wine Bar if you’re looking to explore the area. It’s one of our go-to places to relax with friends, and their Frosé is seriously the best around—especially on a warm day. While you're there, grab a slice of authentic Italian pizza from The Exchange Pizza Depot right next door. You can enjoy it on the patio with your drink in hand—great vibes, great food, and right in the heart of downtown Matthews!

Brie & Geoff

Brie & Geoff

B&G

Wedding Day

Reception