Knight's Courtyard, Castle Farms

Wedding Ceremony

Ceremony

Knight's Castle

Reception

Cocktail Hour

Spring

Our Wedding

<p>Armando and I met in the very end of my time at the Defense Language Institute. We exchanged World of Warcraft information at a commander's PT event, but I was too concerned with my final tests to remember I even talked to him for the whole next week. Armando however woke up early every morning that week to try to catch me at role call. My sleepy soul mate stood there waiting while everyone else came and went with no trace of me. Little did he know that I was exempt from role call all week due to my final Hebrew tests. Luckily, the morning of the event he was trying to invite me to, I awoke from a dream in which he made his first appearance. I remembered to send him a text with my Warcraft server, and he quickly responded inviting me out that night. At first as we developed our feelings for one another, it seemed we would be star-crossed lovers-doomed to be stationed a country apart. At the last moment, after we said our goodbyes and made our peace, we found ourselves amazingly seated next to each other on the plane from Monterey to San Angelo. Armando and I were blessed to have a chance to let our love bloom! Five years later, we've experienced so much together! We can't wait to tie the knot in front of our favorite people, and to begin the rest of our lives together (and with our sweet kitties, too)! </p>

Monterey to Married

Our Story

Photos

While I have many sisters in arms, I have only one real sister and that is Toni!  She and I have had our share of ups and downs (as do all sisters) but as an adult I can see just how much of an influence my big sis had on me throughout my life. Watching my sister give her all in sports and in the things that she was passionate about showed me how to do that in my own pursuits. She taught me how to work hard and stand up for myself. Now I get to learn from her on how to be an amazing mother to our beautiful nieces (and flower girls), Vivian and Juliet! Toni is a talented cosmetologist, a detailed planner, and an avid caretaker. I can't think of anyone who I would rather have as my maid of honor! Thank you Toni!

Toni Tikkanen

Krista has been my wingman and sister in arms since minute zero. She was just a couple of beds down from me in basic training and has blessed me with her friendship through our time in the military. We both made it into the NCO tier at the same time and continue to push each other every day. She and her husband are absolute badasses and by the time the wedding hits, they will have their first baby!

Krista Fackrell Park

Meghan and I have been friends for what feels like my whole life. We had sleepover after sleepover, played volleyball in the streets, and walked aimlessly around Ishpeming while gossiping for countless hours. There are so many times I see an old movie and tell Armando “I remember seeing that in theaters with Meghan!” Now she's following her calling as a foster parent and has already done so much good in the world. 

Meghan Terres

Emma is my beautiful little cousin. Growing up we spent a ton of time together playing polly pockets, watching Spongebob,  and giving jumper cables to her brother Thomas. Emma has always felt more like a sister to me than a cousin, and I know that she will continue to do great things throughout her life. She recently graduated nursing school and has been doing an amazing job in her medical career. I am so proud to call you family, Emma! Thank you for being my bridesmaid.

Emma Bleau

Armando and Angela have been so close their entire lives! From singing Disney songs together to traveling to Spain, they have been siblings and best friends. Angela is a dedicated teacher in Nashville, and in her spare time practices her amazing painting skills. Cora feels so lucky to have such an awesome sister in law as a part of her family! Thank you for being a part of our wedding, Angela! 

Angela Perez Alers

Courtney and the bride met when Cora tried out for the 8th grade basketball team and made it. She was terrible and had no idea what was going on half the time. Luckily, Courtney came to the rescue and taught her all of the basics in her driveway. They became close friends, spending countless hours practicing volleyball, softball, and basketball outside along with enjoying a lot of Just Dance on the Wii! Courtney is a dedicated Vet tech and a volunteer firefighter. I am so proud and inspired by her (as always), and even if she can’t make the wedding I will still consider her a bridesmaid from afar, and a friend for life <3

Courtney Allen

From the very first day we met, Jon and I have felt that we've known each other for a lifetime. We have shared a crazy number of memories and through it all have built a bond so strong that no matter the time or distance, whenever we meet up, it's as if not a single day has passed between us. Graduating as a micro-biologist, Jon and his wife Karleen have been part of my family for years, and as they now build theirs with their first son, I am proud to call him my brother and my Best Man.

Jon Velázquez Gore

Brian is a mutual friend of the bride and groom. He met Cora while they suffered through working at Walmart together. They became best friends and thanks to Brian's digital expertise, they haven't let her enlistment get in the way of playing video games together. Though, when it comes to video games, sometimes Cora has to stand in line behind Armando, who enjoys playing with Brian even more. As a talented locksmith and a father of two handsome young men, Brian has his hands FULL. However, he always finds time to spare for Cora and Armando when they come home on leave. Brian, we appreciate your constant friendship so much. We are so very excited to have you as our groomsman!

Brian Paajanen

Delver is as close a kindred soul to Armando as ever it could be. Having met when they both worked at Home Depot, Delver quickly resonated with me and were able to become instant friends. Sharing the same passions in movies, games, series and overall zest for life as me, Delver is an invaluable pillar of my friend group, and the best example of what the term "true friend" really means. 

Delver Ayala

Edgar has been my neighbor for as long as I can remember, even if I'm not physically living next to his house anymore! The level of trust, friendship, camaraderie and dedication shown by him is second to none! You kept me going strong, in every sense of the word, including going to the gym together to stay fit! A true friend indeed, one that will continue on as time does. 

Edgar Borrero

Christian Lee is another one of my neighbors, and one of the greats in terms of friendship! A true friend, gamer and one of the smartest people I have the absolute pleasure of knowing! We also grew up together and have many memories of just hanging out with the gang on his balcony, playing Guitar Hero on expert, and League of Legends. It is an absolute honor to have you as one of my groomsmen!

Christian Lee Bullington

Gabriel is a man's man, a talented musician, and even better friend! We met while in college and have been gaming together since! Having also traveled across the world with him, he quickly became a most dear friend to me and a true example of what an upstanding character one can be! I couldn't have a groomsmen group without you in it!

Gabriel Jusino

Wedding Party

Q + A

Near Beaver Island Boat Company Ferry TerminalMake yourself at home in one of the 8 individually decorated guestrooms. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms have showers and hair dryers. Conveniences include irons/ironing boards and blackout drapes/curtains, and housekeeping is provided on request.A stay at Charlevoix House places you in the heart of Charlevoix, steps from Lake Michigan and Charlevoix Beach.  This bed & breakfast is 0.2 mi (0.3 km) from Beaver Island Boat Company Ferry Terminal and 0.3 mi (0.4 km) from North Seas Gallery.Distances are displayed to the nearest 0.1 mile and kilometer.  Lake Michigan - 0.1 km / 0.1 mi  Charlevoix Beach - 0.2 km / 0.1 mi  Beaver Island Boat Company Ferry Terminal - 0.3 km / 0.2 mi  North Seas Gallery - 0.4 km / 0.3 mi  Charlevoix Circle of Arts - 0.5 km / 0.3 mi  Lake Charlevoix - 0.8 km / 0.5 mi  Mushroom House - 0.9 km / 0.5 mi  Mt. McSauba Recreation Area - 1.3 km / 0.8 mi  Lake Chalevoix Depot Beach - 1.5 km / 0.9 mi  Artform Fabricating - 2.4 km / 1.5 mi  North Point Nature Preserve - 2.4 km / 1.5 mi  Belvedere Golf Club - 3.8 km / 2.4 mi  Castle Farms - 5.7 km / 3.5 mi  Dunmaglas Golf Club - 10.9 km / 6.8 mi  Charles A. Ransom Nature Preserve - 11.6 km / 7.2 mi  The nearest major airport is Pellston, MI (PLN-Pellston Regional) - 58.5 km / 36.4 miTake in the views from a garden and make use of amenities such as complimentary wireless Internet access and concierge services.Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services and luggage storage. Free self parking is available onsite.A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily from 6 AM to 8 AM.

Charlevoix House

Near Beaver Island Boat Company Ferry TerminalMake yourself at home in one of the 56 guestrooms featuring refrigerators and Smart televisions. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms have designer toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include safes and coffee/tea makers, as well as phones with free local calls.With a stay at The Earl, you'll be centrally located in Charlevoix, steps from Charlevoix Beach and within a 5-minute walk of North Seas Gallery.  This hotel is 0.2 mi (0.4 km) from Charlevoix Circle of Arts and 0.5 mi (0.8 km) from Mushroom House.Distances are displayed to the nearest 0.1 mile and kilometer.  Lake Michigan - 0.1 km / 0.1 mi  Charlevoix Beach - 0.2 km / 0.1 mi  Beaver Island Boat Company Ferry Terminal - 0.3 km / 0.2 mi  North Seas Gallery - 0.3 km / 0.2 mi  Charlevoix Circle of Arts - 0.4 km / 0.2 mi  Mushroom House - 0.8 km / 0.5 mi  Lake Charlevoix - 0.9 km / 0.6 mi  Mt. McSauba Recreation Area - 1.4 km / 0.9 mi  Lake Chalevoix Depot Beach - 1.5 km / 0.9 mi  Artform Fabricating - 2.5 km / 1.5 mi  North Point Nature Preserve - 2.5 km / 1.5 mi  Belvedere Golf Club - 3.7 km / 2.3 mi  Castle Farms - 5.6 km / 3.5 mi  Dunmaglas Golf Club - 11 km / 6.8 mi  Charles A. Ransom Nature Preserve - 11.7 km / 7.2 mi  The nearest major airport is Pellston, MI (PLN-Pellston Regional) - 58.7 km / 36.5 miTake advantage of recreational opportunities offered, including an indoor pool, a spa tub, and a fitness center. This hotel also features complimentary wireless Internet access and bike parking.Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, an elevator, and coffee/tea in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite.Take advantage of the hotel's room service (during limited hours). Need to unwind? Take a break with a tasty beverage at one of the 2 bars/lounges. A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM.

The Earl

Near Lake Chalevoix Depot BeachMake yourself at home in one of the 52 guestrooms featuring refrigerators and microwaves. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include safes and desks, as well as phones with free local calls.A stay at AmericInn by Wyndham Charlevoix places you in the heart of Charlevoix, within a 5-minute drive of Artform Fabricating and Lake Charlevoix.  This hotel is 1.6 mi (2.6 km) from Lake Michigan and 1.6 mi (2.6 km) from Mt. McSauba Recreation Area.Distances are displayed to the nearest 0.1 mile and kilometer.  Artform Fabricating - 1.4 km / 0.9 mi  Lake Charlevoix - 2.1 km / 1.3 mi  Lake Michigan - 2.7 km / 1.6 mi  Mt. McSauba Recreation Area - 2.7 km / 1.7 mi  North Point Nature Preserve - 2.7 km / 1.7 mi  Lake Chalevoix Depot Beach - 3.4 km / 2.1 mi  Charlevoix Beach - 4.4 km / 2.7 mi  Beaver Island Boat Company Ferry Terminal - 4.4 km / 2.8 mi  North Seas Gallery - 4.5 km / 2.8 mi  Charlevoix Circle of Arts - 4.5 km / 2.8 mi  Mushroom House - 4.9 km / 3 mi  Belvedere Golf Club - 7.3 km / 4.5 mi  Dunmaglas Golf Club - 8.9 km / 5.5 mi  Castle Farms - 9.4 km / 5.8 mi  Charles A. Ransom Nature Preserve - 9.6 km / 5.9 mi  The nearest airports are:Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 82.6 km / 51.3 mi Pellston, MI (PLN-Pellston Regional) - 54.9 km / 34.1 mi The preferred airport for AmericInn by Wyndham Charlevoix is Cherry Capital Airport (TVC). Don't miss out on recreational opportunities including an indoor pool and a spa tub. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless Internet access, a communal living room, and a vending machine.Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, laundry facilities, and a water dispenser. Free self parking is available onsite.A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily.

AmericInn by Wyndham Charlevoix

Near Artform FabricatingMake yourself at home in one of the 60 air-conditioned rooms featuring microwaves and iPod docking stations. Your room comes with a pillowtop bed. 39-inch LED televisions with cable programming provide entertainment, while complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected. Private bathrooms with showers feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers.With a stay at Charlevoix Inn & Suites SureStay Collection by Best Western in Charlevoix, you'll be next to a golf course, just a 1-minute walk from Lake Charlevoix and 7 minutes by foot from Artform Fabricating.  This golf hotel is 1 mi (1.7 km) from Lake Michigan and 0.8 mi (1.3 km) from Mt. McSauba Recreation Area.Distances are displayed to the nearest 0.1 mile and kilometer.  Lake Charlevoix - 0.1 km / 0.1 mi  Artform Fabricating - 0.6 km / 0.3 mi  Charlevoix Beach - 1.2 km / 0.7 mi  Mt. McSauba Recreation Area - 1.3 km / 0.8 mi  Lake Chalevoix Depot Beach - 1.3 km / 0.8 mi  Lake Michigan - 1.6 km / 1 mi  North Point Nature Preserve - 1.7 km / 1.1 mi  Beaver Island Boat Company Ferry Terminal - 2.2 km / 1.4 mi  North Seas Gallery - 2.2 km / 1.4 mi  Charlevoix Circle of Arts - 2.3 km / 1.4 mi  Mushroom House - 2.7 km / 1.7 mi  Belvedere Golf Club - 5.3 km / 3.3 mi  Castle Farms - 7.4 km / 4.6 mi  Dunmaglas Golf Club - 9.2 km / 5.7 mi  Charles A. Ransom Nature Preserve - 9.9 km / 6.1 mi  The nearest major airport is Pellston, MI (PLN-Pellston Regional) - 56.9 km / 35.3 miBe sure to enjoy recreational amenities including an indoor pool and a spa tub. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless Internet access, a fireplace in the lobby, and tour/ticket assistance. The shuttle (surcharge) will take you to the nearby beach or shopping center.Featured amenities include a business center, limo/town car service, and express check-out. Planning an event in Charlevoix? This hotel has 650 square feet (59 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room. For a surcharge, guests may use a roundtrip airport shuttle (available 24 hours) and a cruise ship terminal shuttle.A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily from 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM.

Charlevoix Inn & Suites SureStay Collection by Best Western

Near Great Lakes Center for the ArtsTreat yourself to a stay in one of the 30 individually decorated guestrooms, featuring fireplaces and LCD televisions. Rooms have private furnished balconies or patios. Kitchens are outfitted with full-sized refrigerators/freezers, ovens, and stovetops. Cable programming and DVD players are provided for your entertainment, while complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected.Located in Petoskey, Cottages at Bay Harbor is on the waterfront, a 5-minute drive from Crooked Tree Golf Club and 7 minutes from Little Traverse History Museum.  This beach cottage is 4.9 mi (7.9 km) from Odawa Casino and 5.9 mi (9.5 km) from Mackinaw Trail Winery.Distances are displayed to the nearest 0.1 mile and kilometer.  Lake Michigan - 0.3 km / 0.2 mi  Great Lakes Center for the Arts - 0.6 km / 0.4 mi  Crooked Tree Golf Club - 2.3 km / 1.4 mi  McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital - 4.4 km / 2.7 mi  Bear River Park - 4.4 km / 2.8 mi  Bear River - 4.5 km / 2.8 mi  Little Traverse History Museum - 4.9 km / 3 mi  Odawa Casino - 7.9 km / 4.9 mi  Mackinaw Trail Winery - 9.5 km / 5.9 mi  Lavender Hill Farm - 11 km / 6.9 mi  Horton Bay - 11.1 km / 6.9 mi  Petoskey State Park - 13 km / 8.1 mi  Lake Charlevoix - 14.7 km / 9.1 mi  Crooked Lake - 14.9 km / 9.2 mi  Charles A. Ransom Nature Preserve - 15.6 km / 9.7 mi  The preferred airport for Cottages at Bay Harbor is Pellston, MI (PLN-Pellston Regional) - 37.9 km / 23.6 mi Be sure to enjoy recreational amenities including a spa tub and a seasonal outdoor pool. This cottage also features complimentary wireless Internet access, concierge services, and gift shops/newsstands.Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.Wrap up your day with a drink at the poolside bar. Buffet breakfasts are available daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM for a fee.

Cottages at Bay Harbor

Near Great Lakes Center for the ArtsMake yourself at home in one of the 113 guestrooms featuring refrigerators and minibars. Rooms have private furnished balconies. Cable programming and DVD players are provided for your entertainment, while complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected. Conveniences include desks and complimentary newspapers, as well as phones with free local calls.Located in Petoskey, Inn at Bay Harbor, Autograph Collection is on the waterfront, within a 5-minute drive of Great Lakes Center for the Arts and Crooked Tree Golf Club.  This 4-star hotel is 4.8 mi (7.8 km) from Odawa Casino and 5.8 mi (9.4 km) from Mackinaw Trail Winery.Distances are displayed to the nearest 0.1 mile and kilometer.  Lake Michigan - 0.2 km / 0.2 mi  Great Lakes Center for the Arts - 0.6 km / 0.4 mi  Crooked Tree Golf Club - 2.2 km / 1.3 mi  Bear River Park - 4.1 km / 2.6 mi  McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital - 4.2 km / 2.6 mi  Bear River - 4.3 km / 2.7 mi  Little Traverse History Museum - 6 km / 3.8 mi  Odawa Casino - 7.8 km / 4.8 mi  Mackinaw Trail Winery - 9.4 km / 5.8 mi  Lavender Hill Farm - 10.9 km / 6.8 mi  Horton Bay - 11 km / 6.8 mi  Petoskey State Park - 12.8 km / 8 mi  Lake Charlevoix - 14.5 km / 9 mi  Crooked Lake - 14.7 km / 9.1 mi  Charles A. Ransom Nature Preserve - 15.5 km / 9.6 mi  The nearest airports are:Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 101.3 km / 62.9 mi Pellston, MI (PLN-Pellston Regional) - 37.8 km / 23.5 mi The preferred airport for Inn at Bay Harbor, Autograph Collection is Cherry Capital Airport (TVC). Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages, body treatments, and facials. You can soak up the sun at the private beach or enjoy other recreational amenities including a spa tub and a fitness center. This hotel also features complimentary wireless Internet access, concierge services, and ski storage.Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free valet parking is available onsite.Grab a bite at The Links Grille, one of the hotel's 4 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of the room service (during limited hours). Snacks are also available at the coffee shop/cafe. Relax with a refreshing drink from the poolside bar or one of the 2 bars/lounges. Buffet breakfasts are available for a fee.

Inn at Bay Harbor Autograph Collection

Bay Harbor Village Hotel

Near Thorne Swift Nature PreserveMake yourself at home in one of the 42 individually decorated guestrooms. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms with shower/tub combinations are provided. Conveniences include phones with free local calls, and housekeeping is provided daily.With a stay at Birchwood Inn in Harbor Springs, you'll be near ski lifts, just steps from Tunnel of Trees and a 3-minute drive from Harbor Springs Vineyards and Winery.  This hotel is 4.5 mi (7.2 km) from Harbor Springs Beach and 8.8 mi (14.1 km) from Petoskey State Park.Distances are displayed to the nearest 0.1 mile and kilometer.  Tunnel of Trees - 0.1 km / 0.1 mi  Thorne Swift Nature Preserve - 1 km / 0.6 mi  Lake Michigan - 1.1 km / 0.7 mi  Harbor Springs Vineyards and Winery - 2.8 km / 1.8 mi  Andrew J. Blackbird Museum - 5.8 km / 3.6 mi  Donald Ross Memorial Course - 6 km / 3.7 mi  Harbor Springs Beach - 7.2 km / 4.5 mi  Petoskey State Park - 14.1 km / 8.8 mi  Pleasantview Winery - 14.4 km / 9 mi  The Highlands - 14.4 km / 9 mi  Heather Golf Course at Boyne Highlands - 14.5 km / 9 mi  Little Traverse Bay Golf Course - 14.9 km / 9.2 mi  Nub's Nob Ski Area - 16.3 km / 10.1 mi  Crooked Lake - 16.4 km / 10.2 mi  Donald Ross Memorial Golf Course - 18.5 km / 11.5 mi  The preferred airport for Birchwood Inn is Pellston, MI (PLN-Pellston Regional) - 38.7 km / 24.1 mi Take advantage of recreation opportunities such as a seasonal outdoor pool, or other amenities including complimentary wireless Internet access and a fireplace in the lobby.The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Planning an event in Harbor Springs? This hotel has facilities measuring 2300 square feet (214 square meters), including conference space. Free self parking is available onsite.A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM.

Birchwood Inn

Near Odawa CasinoMake yourself at home in one of the 132 air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators and LED televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms have shower/tub combinations and hair dryers. Conveniences include safes and microwaves, as well as phones with free local calls.With a stay at @ M

at Michigan Inn & Lodge

Near Great Lakes Center for the ArtsMake yourself at home in one of the 58 air-conditioned rooms featuring microwaves and flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include desks and coffee

AmericInn by Wyndham Petoskey

Travel

<p>Michigan Beach on Lake Michigan is a favorite spot for all. It offers a white sandy beach, Petoskey stones, an ADA playground, walking trails, a volleyball net, a pavilion, concessions, restrooms, a swimming area, and the iconic Charlevoix Lighthouse within walking distance of downtown Charlevoix. Also, if you're looking to fish and don't have a boat, fish off of the pier on Michigan Beach! One of Charlevoix's best beaches, enjoy sandy shores and great sunsets.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

Cora & Armando

Cora & Armando

Photos