Flathead Lake Forevers

Rehearsal Dinner

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Dinner

Dancing

Last Call/Music Ends

Closing Time

The Hotel Gallery

Ohio Reception

We Hope You're as Excited as We Are!

To all who can meet us in MT on our special day or later for the OH reception, please know how blessed we are by your presence.

Our Wedding

Join Our Wedding Facebook Group!

As the wedding date gets closer, there's a lot of coordinating in the works. We've created a Facebook group called <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/850149838911442" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">"Meet Us in MT!"</a> to help everyone connect with each other. From things like transportation around the area to sharing in recreational activities before and after the wedding, we hope it will be a helpful resource for everyone. Just request to join the group, and Austin or Christina will happily make you a member of our exclusive, super-awesome club!! Also, any announcements we post here on this wedding website will be posted to the Facebook group as well. Don't worry about missing out if you're not on Facebook! Come to this page first.

Access to Glacier National Park is Limited!

This year, Glacier National Park is limiting its daily access, requiring an entry ticket to be purchased in advance. You can purchase the ticket at <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/timed-entry/10087086/ticket/10087087" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">recreation.gov</a>. The ticket itself is free, but there is a $2 reservation fee per ticket. Currently, you cannot purchase a ticket during our wedding weekend; yet, the remaining 145 tickets per day will be up for sale exactly 2 days before the date you want to enter. The entry ticket is only required when entering from the West Entrance or East Entrance, and it is not required if you are part of a tour or reserved activity in the park. Check these websites for <a href="https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/gtsrticketedentry.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">more information</a>, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/ticketedentryfaq.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">frequently asked questions</a>, and a video report from <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0KxF47PD2Q&amp;t=774s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" class="">Roaming with the Ramsays</a>.

Got Some COVID-19 Concerns?

Our wedding ceremony and reception is completely outdoors. We will not be requiring anyone to wear masks, but feel free to do so if it makes you feel more comfortable. Guests will be able to social distance as much as they'd like - there's a lot of space! We also will not be requiring individuals to receive COVID-19 vaccination before the wedding - that's up to each individual and household, as well as local availability. This is all in keeping with state and local policies. Different counties and businesses may ask that individuals wear a mask upon entering buildings. It may be wise to keep a mask handy with you, just in case. For more information on Montana's current COVID-19 policies, please visit <a href="https://covid19.mt.gov/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Montana's official state website</a> for the most up-to-date information.

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Frequently Asked Questions

New Announcements

Meet-Cute

It all started with two good friends, one phone app, and a God who works in mysterious ways. — Austin —It's 2018. Since my birthday in January, and the gift of a blind double date, Zan had been trying to set me up in Japan. I'd wanted to try dating again, but explaining "my type" so he could help wasn't something easily put into words. Well, after weeks of persistence on his part, I relented and downloaded an app he suggested to better explain what girls caught my interest and why.— Christina —After spending Christmas with my family and then returning to Japan, Alejandra and I couldn’t wait to meet up, catch up, and exchange Christmas gifts. While we were out for dinner (at our favorite Vietnamese place), it came up that I hadn’t been in a relationship — or even on a date — in 6.5 years. Upon that revelation, all Alejandra said was, “Give me your phone.” The next thing I knew, she had downloaded an app, set up my profile, and started the matching process right then and there. I guess that's one way to get back in the dating world!— A —So, I was tasked with taking screenshots. I rarely swiped right for "like" to be honest but had just discovered how to "super like" someone, swiping up. It meant when my profile came up for that girl she'd see a star indicating I'd already "liked" her. If she "liked" me back then we'd match and be able to chat. Low and behold I see Christina, looking stunning in a white dress, with short curly red hair and honey-brown eyes. Reading her profile I found she was a down to earth Christian from Montana and a lover of coffee and deep conversations. I quickly glanced back through her photos again and before I knew it was swiping up for a "super like!" ...and then instantly shouting "Nooo!" realizing I'd forgotten to take the screenshot! The most interesting and beautiful girl I'd seen, and I had no way of tracking her down. So, I gave it to God. Then and there I said a prayer asking that if it was meant to be He'd bring us together.— C —I first saw Austin’s profile because of — you guessed it — Alejandra! She saw him and immediately messaged me, thinking he and I would make a good match. All I could see from her message was that he was good-looking and a strong Christian — what’s not to love? Yet when I clicked on the link to see more, nothing worked! How was I going to learn more about this guy?! Thankfully, a week later, his profile popped up through the app on its own, and there was a “super like” star! How flattering it was to see that! Finally getting to read his full profile and see other pictures, I was hooked. I couldn’t wait to start talking with him… and I’m so glad he messaged me shortly after we’d matched!&nbsp;I was happy to “meet” him, if only through writing at first.— A —After a few weeks of good questions, open and honest replies with further questions, we both snowballed into lengthy paragraph writing. It was delightful, and I soon desperately wanted to meet this girl. In expressing that we should get to know each other better (simply thinking a phone call may be the next step) she offered to meet in person!— C —It was a Sunday, Easter Sunday, and April Fool’s Day to boot! And I was not feeling well. Sadly, this was a regular thing for me during that time. I had gone to church in Toyohashi that morning but missed most of the service and went straight home afterward. How was I going to go on a date in Hamamatsu? How could I show my best self to someone I wanted to like me? I considered rescheduling... but even if things didn’t go well, I knew it would be worth it to meet a fellow Christian. So I got myself ready, messaged Austin about the train I was catching, and said I looked forward to meeting him soon.— A —I arrived early, as any gentlemen should, and waited by a pillar near the station's gate. Nervous, I thought of wanting to do something more than an awkward "hi" and wave from a distance as she came down from the platform. Seeing she'd just arrived, I resolved to instead surprise her a little. So, I hid behind the pillar, went around it as she approached, gathered myself with one last breath, and....— C —I felt a tap on my shoulder, whirled around, and looked up into bright blue eyes. He smiled down at me and said, “Hi, I’m Austin. Nice to meet you.”

Pictures from our first few dates prior to Austin asking for us to be official.

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Dating

Kyoto Trip

We finally got some time off (at the same time!) and traveled to see the scenic, historic sights of Kyoto. We enjoyed great food, long walks on the Philosopher's Path, and (for Christina) lots and lots of beautiful flowers. This was a great opportunity to see just how in sync we were as a couple, from taking breaks for sunscreen application to stopping for random photo ops.

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Mt. Fuji Climb

Christina didn't think she'd have the strength (due to illness) or opportunity to make this famous trek. Austin, however, excitedly wanted to experience it with her and had connections for the down-low on how to climb high. And not only did we made it to the top, but to the highest point of the mountain (where Christina said 'I love you' for the first time)! We enjoyed searing seals into our wooden staffs at each checkpoint, watching the sunrise together from the 9th Station, and our sudden invitation by the groom to his wedding at the mountain top shrine later that morning. (His best man took the photo of us looking at the sunrise.) More than ever we were a team: Christina suggesting Austin take the lead, both carrying each other's burdens, and Austin encouraging Christina to take frequent breaks to rest and enjoy the journey. It was one of the hardest and most rewarding things we've done together.

We jokingly say that we did Japan wrong. Austin studied American boxing in Hamamastu, not Aikido. Christina learned bouldering in Toyohashi, not Montana. And though our families thought perhaps we'd find a Japanese significant other, we found each other: Christian, American, redheads. Can you believe it? Well, we couldn't be happier with our experiences abroad and with how God blessed us with each other. ─────────

Proposal

She had no idea it was coming. — Christina —Austin had just returned from Japan on September 1st last year, and we planned to celebrate my birthday a month late. His idea was to enjoy an evening in Columbus (including Aikido), before an early start the next day for... secret activities. I didn't know what Austin had planned for the day, and I was actually really excited about that! I like fun surprises.— Austin —The planning for this all started back before Valentine's Day 2020. I sent a large package of gifts and letters for Christina to open every few days which then concluded on our anniversary, April 1st, with the gift of tickets to come out to Japan. Unfortunately, due to COVID and travel restrictions that couldn't happen, not for Golden Week (the first week in May) nor could it later for Obon (in August). Thus, this had become Proposal Plan #3. And instead of in Japan where it all started, it'd be in America where we would make our future.— C —All I did know was that plans included a picnic. Since I wasn't able to go to Japan, Austin wanted to bring Japan to me. So, we went to a Japanese market in Columbus the day before to procure certain Japanese culinary goods for our bento-style lunch the next day. Needless to say, I was geeking out the moment I stepped into the market! Additionally, we discovered a bubble tea shop nearby that we just had to check out.— A —There was no dine-in available at the tea shop, so Christina suggested a walk in a local park. The nearest one was The Park of Roses, which I'd heard good things about but had never been to. Upon arrival, it was like going full circle, reminding me of our first date at Hamamatsu Flower Park. There were numerous beautiful, unique, and sweet-smelling roses, and yet (same as back then) none could compare to Christina.— C —Aww...— A —The idea for the next day was to give letters and gifts in the same fashion as the ones earlier in the year. Each would say one thing I loved about Christina and tell us where we'd be going next.— C —I got ready the next morning and returned to find a letter and a gift on my pillow. The gift was a lovely rose gold watch with flowers on the face, the letter was called “Time”… and we were off to do a zip line course down in the Hocking Hills area of Ohio.— A —Ziplining was such a blast! We'll have videos to share at some point, but soaring through the upper trees was an adrenaline rush. Our last zip had us swooping down from an 85ft tall tower, spanning a quarter-mile, crossing the middle of the Hocking River, and all while going up to 50mph side by side in a "superhero” position! Furthermore, our great guides and fellow zipliners were amazing throughout! So, who wants to join us when we go again?— C —Ziplining finished in the late morning, and another letter and gift awaited me. “Together” was the theme for this one, and I received a rose… (Yes, from a handsome bachelor, but no, not a real rose.) It was a rose gold necklace that featured a hanging rose and a small leaf charm with an initial on it. Hey, Austin, what did the “L” on the charm stand for again?— A —*ahem* “...Love.” (certainly wasn't hinting at a new last name)— C —(I believed him… hook, line, and sinker.) The next destination was Hocking Hills State Park, which was about half an hour from where we were. The drive was beautiful, but I couldn’t enjoy it much. My motion sickness had really kicked in from the winding, hilly roads. By the time we found a place to park at the destination, I was content to sit for a good long minute in the passenger seat while Austin encouraged me to relax as he collected our picnic. I leaned my head against the car’s door frame, closing my eyes and letting the cool breeze settle my nausea. After a moment, we made our way to the visitor’s center for a restroom break, and then headed off to the trailhead. My nausea medicine was kicking in, and I was ready to play with my new camera. (Thanks, Dad!)— A —Little did she know I'd been coordinating with my mother and sister (Kailyn) to arrive shortly after us to take a photo of the big moment. I'd told them roughly when we'd be arriving and, to my dismay, they were early and we were running a bit late. Keeping my head on a swivel while parking I saw them pulling in not far behind us. Wanting Christina not to see them I encouraged her to stay sitting in the car, even close her eyes, to relax from her nausea. I stepped outside to "stretch my legs" (and make sure they didn't inadvertently park next to us). As they passed I made direct eye-contact with Kailyn. She hilariously put her head down and must've told Mom to park elsewhere, as the car sped off slightly. *phew* A close call! While at the visitor's center, and away from Christina, I called and confirmed the gameplan with them, or so I thought...— C —Why hello, waterfalls! This state park was full of them. The main feature near the trailhead took us over a cobblestone bridge arching over a gorgeous waterfall. The trail then wound around to the waterfall’s basin, where a large pool reflected sunlight off the water and sent it rippling up onto the rounded cliffs above. This was the picnic spot… beautiful! Although I thought to set up our blanket off to the side…— A —(I needed us to be more in the middle for Kailyn to capture the ideal shot.)— C —… Austin suggested the view was better near the center. I was so excited about the pictures I took, the food we were about to eat, and the beauty surrounding us. He even brought me my favorite egg sandwich all the way from Japan! We got stared at by other folks on and off, but we were the only ones having a picnic, so I tried to put it out of my mind. And with delicious food, good company, and this great chance to people watch, it wasn’t too hard to do.— A —Meanwhile, I was waiting to see Mom and Kailyn come down and around the path we just had. Problem was that path, the cobblestone bridge, and those crossing it were in clear view. So I was a bit on edge ready to distract Christina when "buzz buzz," A message on my phone. Mom had said Kailyn was set up (tripod and all) at the top of the rounded cliff. Looking up, I could barely make them out, peering from the bushes. Apparently, they had crawled across the bridge to not be seen, haha. What champs! Unfortunately, I wanted them behind us to capture the beautiful waterfall and view we'd been looking at in the photo. After explaining briefly via text I continued eating.— C —Now that I was feeling better, boy was I hungry! We had a more traditional-style bento lunch, some sushi, my egg sandwich, and beverages of milk tea and Japanese Ramune soda. We watched kids playing around, and once in a while Austin would point something new out on one side or another.— A —Ok, good. She hadn't seen them come down the path. Kailyn was finally set up and ready, Mom with her, behind us. But Christina was still eating. Though I felt bad for having them wait after all the trouble they'd gone through, the timing had to be right. I held my hand up, out of sight behind Christina, indicating to please give us another 5 minutes. There were still too many people around.— C —The only downside was that Austin kept getting pulled away by messages on his phone. He and I usually remain phone-free when having meals together, but I assumed it was work-related in his job hunting. However, I was content, just aiming to finish my whole meal.— A —Becoming slightly anxious, Christina had commented that I'd seemed a bit off. I replied saying that Mom was wanting to coordinate dinner plans for that evening and asked if it'd be ok to excuse myself to "give her a call." She said that'd be fine. *exhale* I needed to breathe. Walking behind us to where Mom and Kailyn were hiding, I thanked them for everything and they wished me luck. They said people had asked them what they were doing, and finding out, were waiting to see the big moment. Great...— C —When Austin returned, he said he wanted us to jump up when most people had left the area in front of the waterfall. That way we could get some good pictures together. I just nodded and continued eating my rice.— A —Every time Kailyn peered her head out to check in on us, I'd see her out of the corner of my eye. I worried Christina would inadvertently turn around and see her. Sheesh, my mind was rushing. How many times had I asked for another 5 minutes? Was Christina really trying to eat every last grain of rice?! And when would the area be clear. Oh! No one was around!— C —Next thing I knew, my bento lunch was swept out of my hands! "Ok, picture time!" I stood up to put my shoes on, only to find Austin grabbing my hands, pulling me back, and placing another letter into them. This one read "Forever" and had two pages. I started reading one of the most beautiful romantic letters yet, went to read the second page, and found the whole thing swept out of my hands again!— A —I had considered my words very carefully and, because Christina is a words person, decided to write them down for her to have forever. "Op! Yeah, let me tell you what's on that second letter." I quickly took it and placed it on the ground beside us, and then grabbed something in my bag.— C —Austin replaced the letter with a small gift bag, and inside was an origami floral box... and inside that was a small velvet box. I listened to his words as best I could.— A —I took her hands in mine, looked her in the eyes, (probably couldn't stop grinning) and through bridled excitement said "I’d go anywhere and take you everywhere to keep you by my side. In Ohio where I’d like to start a future, with family, friends’, and our God’s support, I love you."— C —My mind was racing with, "Wait... this is happening... this is happening to me. To me! Ok, don't cry... don't cry!" We'd talked about marriage since the beginning, and yet I was still in awe and wonder that this moment was finally happening to me! Every young girl's dream. Before I knew it, he was kneeling!— A —Opening the ring box, and pausing briefly to present it... a rose gold engagement ring with a floral setting. "Christina Marie Bender, will you marry me?"— C —"Yes, of course!" We embraced to the sound of cheers and claps.

Thank you Lori and Kailyn for being there! Didn't Kailyn take a great shot of the proposal!? We love all the photos she took of us in Hocking Hills State Park. Look for her watermark in the photo gallery.

Wedding

Our story is yet being written... and we're excited about our next chapter!

Our Story

Getting Oriented

Big Arm is located on the west side of Flathead Lake in Montana. The closest town to the south is Polson (12mi/19.3km). Missoula is the closest city to the south (82mi/132km), and Kalispell is the closest city to the north (40mi/64.3km). If you are flying in for the wedding, these two cities have the closest airports. Update (4/1/2021): If you haven't purchased your airplane ticket or rented a car yet we suggest you do so as soon as possible! The prices have jumped dramatically in the past few days. We have a thorough list of places on our <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=12s1FAPwpltgb1tWQXUdbtcDGp1XmnC1J&amp;usp=sharing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Google document</a>, but below are a few key locations to get you started.

The Wedding Venue

Our wedding and reception will be held at <a href="https://www.flatheadlakeforevers.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Flathead Lake Forevers</a>.28275 Skipping Rock Lane, Big Arm, MT 59910 They allow dry camping directly on the property. If this is something you're interested in doing, please let us know. ─────────

The Ohio Reception

Our Ohio reception will be held at <a href="https://hotelgallerytippcityohio.com/party-room-rental" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Hotel Gallery</a> Saturday, July 24th, from 6pm - 10pm.109 East Main Street, Tipp City, OH, 45371 We know traveling out to Montana may not be something even the closest of loved ones can do (timing, finances, health, etc). There are many reasons. Therefore, in an effort to celebrate with as many friends and family as possible, we'll be having a second reception in Ohio for all who would like to attend. This will be after Christina has moved to Ohio. So join us for photos and videos from the wedding (hopefully), food, and much fun! ─────────

Lodging Near Big Arm, MT

We currently don't have block rooms reserved at a hotel. Due to COVID-19, hotels are generally not making block rooms available (rebooking rooms is financially risky when an event is canceled). If this situation changes as we approach the wedding date, we'll update you here. Below are some lodging recommendations.

Big Arm Resort & RV Park

Located in Big Arm, this is the closest lodging to the venue. They have options for RV slips, cabins, and marina boat slips. They also have a bar &amp; grill available Thursdays-Sundays. Take a look at their website <a href="https://bigarmresort.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a> for more information, their COVID-19 protocol, and for making reservations.

Flathead Lake State Park

Across the bay from the venue, camping is also available at <a href="https://fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/big-arm" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Flathead State Park</a>. Each campsite allows for 8 people; some spots are campsite electric while others are not. (As of February 2021, over half of the reservable campsites for our wedding weekend have been booked - reserve early if you can. There are walk-up campsites, but they go fast.)

Wild Horse Hideaway

Just north of the venue (6mi/9.5km), this little bed &amp; breakfast is right on Flathead Lake. Check out their website <a href="https://wildhorsebnb.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a> for room availability and their recommended local eateries, too.

Other Hotels, VRBO, & Airbnb Rentals

There are many lodging opportunities throughout the Flathead Lake area!If booking a hotel room is more your preference, you'll find the closest locations and best variety in Polson. Many hotels overlook Flathead Lake. Polson also has a nice downtown area with local shops, restaurants, and parks (with playgrounds) that are worth checking out. Alternatively, click on the links here to be directed to pages for local <a href="https://www.vrbo.com/search/keywords:big-arm-montana-united-states-of-america/arrival:2021-06-22/departure:2021-06-29/minNightlyPrice/0?filterByTotalPrice=true&amp;petIncluded=false&amp;ssr=true&amp;adultsCount=2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">VRBO</a> or <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/s/Big-Arm--MT/homes?tab_id=home_tab&amp;refinement_paths%5B%5D=%2Fhomes&amp;query=Big%20Arm%2C%20MT&amp;place_id=ChIJa1risCgMZ1MRfc_Jf9hC3Ic&amp;checkin=2021-06-22&amp;checkout=2021-06-29&amp;adults=2&amp;source=structured_search_input_header&amp;search_type=autocomplete_click" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Airbnb</a> rentals. ─────────

For all of these locations and more don't forget to check out our <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=12s1FAPwpltgb1tWQXUdbtcDGp1XmnC1J&amp;usp=sharing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Google document</a> and feel free to contact us if you have any questions!

Locations

Near Flathead Lake

For your convenience, we have a full list of places on our <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=12s1FAPwpltgb1tWQXUdbtcDGp1XmnC1J&amp;usp=sharing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Google document</a>. However, we've also added a few highlights below! Many of these places have been recommended to us. If you're familiar with the area and have a suggestion, or if you've found something that looks interesting, please reach out to us so we can share it with everyone! ─────────

Food & Drink

Mission Mountain Winery

<a href="http://www.missionmountainwinery.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mission Mountain Winery</a> is a family-owned winery located on the West Shore of Flathead Lake in Dayton, Montana. It's the first Bonded Winery in Montana, with their initial vineyard in 1980, and the first vintage in 1984. Since then, their wines have received over a hundred accolades and international medals for their bold and extraordinary qualities.

Cherries BBQ Pit

A foodie's dream come true, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cherriesbbqpit/?ref=page_internal" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cherries BBQ Pit</a> slow cooks their meat over local cherry wood with their secret home made rub for hours until it is tender, juicy, and has a nice sweet smoke flavor. Try it with one of their homemade spicy, sweet, tangy, or smoky BBQ sauces.

Flathead Lake Brewing Co.

One of many good brewing places in the area, <a href="https://flatheadlakebrewing.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Flathead Lake Brewing Company</a> started in 2004 in Woods Bay, Montana with two goals: to make the best beer ever and to have fun doing it!

Colter Coffee

With great coffee, personable staff, and plenty of places to sit, plug in a phone/laptop, and work on wifi, <a href="https://coltercoffee.business.site/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Colter Coffee</a> is an excellent place to stop in the heart of Kalispell.

Polebridge Mercantile & Bakery

Travel the dusty North Fork Road to be rewarded with an array of baked goodies – huckleberry bear claws, cinnamon rolls, macaroons, microbrew, coffee, fresh-baked bread, deli / hot pocket sandwiches, and signature pizzas to name a few. In service for over 100 years, <a href="https://polebridgemerc.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Polebridge Mercantile &amp; Bakery</a> is near the West entrance to Glacier National Park. ─────────

Points of Interest

Sandpiper Art & Gift Gallery

This gallery has a wide array of art including pottery, paintings, jewelry, sculptures, and more. They encourage participation in the arts by hosting workshops and arranging annual festivals. Everything is made local by Montana artists. See more <a href="https://www.sandpiperartgallery.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.

Miracle of America Museum

The <a href="https://miracleofamericamuseum.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Miracle of America Museum</a> is an American history museum. They aim to enhance the community and promote good citizenship by teaching the balance of freedom and responsibility. They seem to have an American Pickers or Pawn Stars feel. So, if that sort of history is your alley, it may be worth the trip! ─────────

Sites & Experiences

Red Bus Tour at Glacier National Park 

Glacier National Park and Lodges have popular <a href="https://www.glaciernationalparklodges.com/red-bus-tours" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Red Bus Tours</a> which you can enjoy. Most red buses are restored originals that have been on tour since the 1930s. Guides are seasoned park veterans who are there because they love the park and enjoy sharing it with visitors.&nbsp; There are plans to arrange some buses on Monday, June 28th. For all who are interested, please let us know!

Boat Rentals and Rides

Rent Flathead boats, pontoons, jetskis, waverunners, seadoos, watercraft, kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, or sups (stand up paddleboards) <a href="http://www.boatrentalsandrides.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>. They also offer shuttle service to and from Wild Horse Island for only $40/person round trip. ─────────

Please see our <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=12s1FAPwpltgb1tWQXUdbtcDGp1XmnC1J&amp;usp=sharing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">google document</a> for more ideas of things to do in the area!

Things To Do

Bridesmaids

Miriam Bender - Maid of Honor My younger sister Miriam has been in my life for as long as I can remember - and I wouldn't have it any other way! We are really close in age, very different in looks, and contrasting in personality. Yet this is part of what makes her so special to me. Her strengths are my weak points, and I can always learn so much from her. Though we constantly butted heads as kids, Miriam has always been here for me through thick and thin — and she was always going to be my Maid of Honor.

Katie was one of my very first friends at college — we lived on the same floor and were both placed in the infamous Foundations class our freshman year. College life took us different directions after that year, but we clicked back together in the middle of our senior year (following a sports injury). God really does work all things out for good — Katie and I restarted our weekly tea/coffee dates, and we've grown ever closer over the years. She's one of my truest friends, and she's helped me overcome during some of my darkest days. I'm a stronger and better person with her in my life.

Katie Cleven

I find it too funny that Alyssa's and my first impressions of each other were along the lines of, "This girl is so cool! I want to be friends with her." She and I met in college, and we both came to Wisconsin from the Pacific Northwest. I love how open, honest, and chill she is on just about anything. ("My name is pronounced "ah-LI-shah", but it's spelled like Alyssa... I don't know what my parents were thinking.") She is the one gal who really helped me come out of my shell and become more spontaneous. We've laughed and cried through the years together, and I can't imagine my life without her.

Alyssa Buzzell

My one and only ginger sister! Bekah and I becoming college roommates our senior year was totally a God thing. I was an RA for single housing dorm rooms, and she was going to be one of my residents. Suddenly, the college converted that floor to office space, and we were ousted from the floor! I was assigned to some campus apartments, but I now needed a roommate. Fortunately, Bekah and I had great bonding time during Superbowl XLV (Go, Pack, Go!) and campus ministry retreats, and I knew we'd get a long swimmingly. Since then, our special ginger bond has only grown stronger, and I'm delighted to have her as a bridesmaid.

Bekah Ungemach

My new little-sister-to-be, I have loved getting to know Kailyn during these last 2 years! She's a college student and spends much of her time now in Savannah, Georgia. When she and I get together, you might see us taking pictures of whatever strikes our fancy, popping into local shops and boutiques, or diving into one creative project or another. She and her mom, Lori, introduced me to paper making this past year, and they've gotten me completely hooked! Kailyn is such a soft, warm ray of sunshine in my life. Our life experiences have had many parallels, and I feel close to her despite the gap in our ages. I look forward to our relationship growing even more.

Kailyn Larger

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Attendants

Lauren is a breath of fresh air— my best Montana friend. She and her husband had just moved to Montana when I moved back from Japan in 2018. (Lauren is the wife of Pastor Noah Willitz, the man who will hopefully be officiating this wedding! They are expecting their second child this June. If the timing is right, you'll be able to meet all four of them.) Lauren has given me the freedom to be unabashedly myself, especially with the personal growth and challenges I've faced since returning to Montana. She has given me boundless grace and understanding, always meeting me with an open door and an open heart. She's also one of the funniest people I know; you're bound to hear her bust up laughing, and getting others to laugh with her, at any gathering. I treasure her deeply and will miss her terribly when I move out to Ohio.  I can't wait to see where God takes our friendship in the future.

Lauren Willitz

If it weren't for Alejandra, I don't know if I ever would have met Austin. She and I met in 2015, not too long after I arrived in Toyohashi, Japan. We were part of a really great group of local expats, and she broke through my occasional shyness with wild abandon. She eventually convinced me to model for her photography, and it was one of the most rewarding and fun experiences I've ever had — this woman makes me look incredible! She quickly became one of my best friends in Japan. Because of her, a dating app somehow wound up on my phone, Austin's profile somehow got sent to my inbox, and I had many more fantastic reasons to come see her in Hamamatsu. I wouldn't be here today without her sweet friendship! Unfortunately, Alejandra will not be able to attend due to travel restrictions to and from Japan. We will truly miss her on this special day!

Alejandra Acosta

* Couldn't attend the wedding. ─────────

Groomsmen

Benjamin Borton - Best Man We've been best friends since middle school and have done so much together, from winning a Halloween costume contest or a corn hole tournament to participating and leading many of the same clubs. Ben was one of the few friends to visit me whilst in Japan and I daresay the only one whose primary purpose was to genuinely enjoy time together. I'm truly blessed by his friendship.

Friends since freshmen year at OSU, we lived on the same floor and were in the Engineering Scholars progam together. Sophomore year forward we had a shared house, and later an apartment before graduation. Alex has always been a kind and cheerful guy. He and his twin, Dan, both came in kluch at the last moment surprising me by being able to attend the wedding and happily stepping up to be groomsmen!

Alex Kroger

Dan is Alex's twin and an equally amazing guy. We became friends freshmen year at OSU and later lived in the same shared house. It's honestly hard to find him or Alex not joking or smiling. We attended church together on campus and would have good discussions together about being a son of God. What's better Dan,  Alex, Christina, and I are all currently attending CSG church in Troy, OH!

Dan Kroger

Brother-in-law to be, Andrew and I see eye to eye in a number of areas. He's a man of God, son of logic, and a caring older brother. We had the pleasure of touring a sake brewery in Japan and taste testing to our heart's content! I look forward to sharing more drinks together as family.





Andrew Bender

Friend and brother in Christ, Fausto has always had my back. We got to know each other through Awaken Church and men's study in Columbus. He helped me to get a job out of college, always graciously opens his doors to me when I visit, and continually sets a godly example of what a husband and father looks like. His fellowship is humbling.

Fausto Rivas

"Zan" is the man! We met in Japan, and he brings such levity to life.  Outgoing and determined, he draws out and complements qualities I sometimes lack. Whether teaching university students or celebrating a local festival we've had some really good times. Most importantly, without him I wouldn't have met Christina. I'm forever thankful.

Alexander Appell

Can you guess he's German? Yet, he'll be traveling from Japan to make this wedding (hopefully)! His girlfriend, Alexandra, was pivotal to Christina and I meeting. I enjoy our cultural discussions and I'm so happy we've become friends. You couldn't ask for a more chill and earnest guy. 



Sven Zurek

* Couldn't attend the wedding. ─────────

Flower Girls

Cousin of the Bride; Daughter of Chris and Melissa Carpenter.

Kaitlyn Carpenter

Little Friend of the Bride; Daughter of John and Alyssa Buzzell.

Opal Buzzell

Wedding Party

To God, Family,  & Friends

Without our friends we wouldn't even be here today. Some were vital in bringing us together, while others helped build us up before we’d even met. All have shaped our lives so we could be ready to join them together. Our families mean the world to us. Through the joys and the struggles, their love has always poured out on us. We've shared laughter, relied on one another, and persevered together. They've shaped our morals, work ethic, and faith. We're forever thankful. God has worked such miracles in our lives. It's unbelievable how many things had to align for us to even meet! He has and continues to bless us in amazing ways. The Lord is the firm foundation and everlasting sustainer of our relationship, both with Him and with each other. We are so humbled, and we rejoice in His grace.

To Many More For Helping to Make this a Special Day

Wedding vendors Alan and Linda Madsen of <a href="https://www.flatheadlakeforevers.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Flathead Lake Forevers</a>

Pastor Noah Willitz (along with wife Lauren, son James, &amp; expected baby-to-be) of <a href="https://www.livingsaviormissoula.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Living Savior Lutheran Church</a>

Sally Watson and her husband, owners of <a href="https://hotelgallerytippcityohio.com/party-room-rental" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Hotel Gallery</a>

Videographers of <a href="https://www.burtonproductionsllc.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Burton Productions</a>' digital cinema production team

Photographer Dax Kuehn of <a href="https://www.daxphotography.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dax Photography</a>

Disk Jocky A.D. Bunn of <a href="https://bunndjcompany.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bunn DJ Company</a>

Pastry Chef Jeremy Sher of <a href="https://www.missoulacakes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Missoula Cakes</a> for our wedding cake

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Seppis-European-Market-Deli-111038153943498/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Seppi's European Market &amp; Deli</a> for charcuterie board appetizers

Store manager Taylor Clark of <a href="https://www.twirlboutique.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Twirl a bridal boutique</a>

Special Thanks

The Greatest Gifts

Time spent together in and around our wedding, as well as your continued friendship, will always be the greatest gifts you could give. Please do not feel obligated. For those who travel out for our big day, this is especially true. If you choose to give, know we will be humbly delighted and, once settled, plan to extend dinner invitations as warm thank-yous.

Our registry site is <a href="https://www.myregistry.com/wedding-registry/christina-bender-and-austin-larger-big-arm-mt/2699111/giftlist" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>. Amazingly it allowed us to gather items from all across the internet! Please feel free to contribute to "Our New Life Together" fund, go in together to get a gift, or purchase one yourself. (Check the "i" in the top right corner of gifts for helpful notes) We are registered at Amazon and Bed Bath &amp; Beyond. Please free to go in person or choose gift cards if you like! The best address to send gifts or cards to currently is:1150 Kerr Road, Troy, OH 45373

Thoughts & Prayers

This can be a difficult time in any young couple's lives, and for friends and family members too. Moreover, perhaps we're all working through some struggles with how things are now. So, we'd like to ask everyone to please keep each other in their thoughts and prayers. Thank you, and God Bless!

Christina & Austin

Christina & Austin

Special Thanks

To God, Family, & Friends

To Many More For Helping to Make this a Special Day