Upstate Bar and Grill

Rehearsal Dinner

The Rosemary at Spano Lake

Wedding Day

Welcome Meet &amp; Greet (Optional):September 6th, 2024 at 7:30 PMGuests are invited to meet up for a drink at The Otesaga Resort Hotel Fire Bar in Cooperstown, NY the evening before the wedding (cash bar).

Our Wedding

"Our relationship has had many seasons and this one is my favorite"- Justin Ketchum

Our Story

Photos

Tylor was introduced to Justin by their mutual friend Troy. Ty, as Justin more regularly calls him, was typically a guest appearance to the West Corners neighborhood, and always a menace when it came to sports. Justin and Tylor became very close in high school due to them working side by side in the wedding business. Justin and Tylor climbed their way in the wedding business, from coat room, to server, to bartender, and so on; Justin followed Tylor’s footsteps. During college, Tylor would make impromptu trips to Oswego, sometimes at a half hour notice, just to hang with Justin. Tylor is another one, been there for it all, Justin and Ellen are super thankful for their relationship with Ty.

Tylor Hubbert

Lauren, or “sis” as Ellen affectionately calls her, is the Maid of Honor. Coming in at 4’11”, she is Ellen’s little sister in more ways than one. Growing up, it was just the two of them, and as her big sister, Ellen naturally assumed the roles of teacher, protector, style critic, and at times, annoyed older sister. Over the years, their relationship has transitioned into a true friendship full of humor, honesty, and almost daily phone calls.

A defining moment in Justin and Ellen’s relationship was during Lauren’s time at SUNY Broome, just a 20-minute drive away from their home. Shortly after a snowstorm, Lauren’s car wouldn’t start, and without hesitation, she reached out to Justin for help. Knowing how comfortable Lauren felt calling Justin, and seeing how quickly he dropped everything to go help her, meant the world to Ellen and solidified him as not just a future brother-in-law, but a true brother figure entering their sibling dynamic.

Lauren Vibbard

Ant, more commonly referred to as “Noce”, has been critical in Justin’s life. From early memories in the dugouts of West Corners baseball, to wrestling, to the most recent years exploring the outdoors together, Noce has always been there. You can find Justin and Noce in tree stands with bows, sitting in a duck blind as the world wakes up, or attempting a new wild game recipe for one of their “wild-game nights” at the house. In fact, Justin asked Noce to be best man during one of the best duck hunts of the 2023 season on the Susquehanna River, this same river that Ellen was asked to marry Justin months before. 

Anthony Noce

 Ryan, the oldest of the Ketchum boys, has proved his loyalty in family. Ryan may be the greatest difference in age and distance from Justin, but you would never know when they are together. Recently, Justin has cherished the long conversations with Ryan via telephone and rooting on the Buffalo Bills (regardless of all the hardships the Bills put them through). One of Justin’s most fond memories with Ryan is during elementary school when Justin was too “sick” to go to school but Ryan still managed to get Justin to go to Tony’s for his first gnocchi experience. Little did pre-teen Justin know that Tony’s would be a favorite date night spot for his future wife Ellen. 

Ryan Ketchum

Next in the brother line we have Chris. Chris and Justin’s relationship has transformed over the years. Having Chris in the area most of Justin’s life, Justin looked at Chris as a role model. Although Chris is still looked up to, Justin now can see him as a peer and someone to go to when needed. It was because of Chris that Justin first became interested in a career in law enforcement. Chris is a trail blazer and has a work ethic like no other. One of Justin’s most fond moments with Chris is watching Chris' children grow. From the early days of conning Bren and Keels into washing Justin’s car with squirt guns, to now seeing them flourish on their respective sports teams and friend groups. Justin takes great pride in being “Uncle Justin” and has Chris to thank for that. Chris is also the reason for Justin and Ellen putting their orange and black sports clothing aside and trading it out for blue and yellow (because who wouldn't for those kids).

Chris Ketchum

Middle  brother Mike. Mike is reliable in that he can take anything apart and build it better. Justin calls Mike via FaceTime often to help him navigate whatever weekend project that he is working on. Even when help is not needed, Justin can count on Mike to admire his work because Mike knows how much effort goes into these types of things. One of Justin's most fond memories is the period when Justin was in high school, and Mike and Justin were the sole brothers in the house. You could find them watching the St. Louis Blues in the basement, Justin with a chocolate milk and Mike with a beer, chips and salsa. Justin credits Mike for cultivating his love for salty snacks and one of his favorite date night drinks; craft beer. 

Mike Ketchum

Brother Brendan being closest in age to Justin has not let down either. Justin admires Brendan’s work ethic and ability to talk and connect with anyone. Brendan has an ability to get people to talk with him regardless of the topic. Justin cherishes the long conversations he and Brendan have routinely. Early on in Justin and Ellen’s relationship they were talking on the phone, Justin at his mom’s house, when Brendan intercepted the conversation, making him the first to meet Ellen. Brendan grilled Ellen as if she were in a job interview, and ultimately must have impressed him, as she quickly gained his approval. 

Brendan Ketchum

Connor has been one of Justin’s closest friends since they were old enough to walk home from school together. Connor has been around for all the major milestones and supported Justin in all his endeavors. Most recently, in 2020, Connor, like many, was unable to work in person causing him to stick around Endicott for a bit. During this time, Connor was able to spend a lot of time around the house with Justin and Ellen. 



Connor Kirk

Troy is one of Justin’s closest friends. Justin and Troy knew of each other on the little league diamond but it wasn’t until Troy came riding by the neighborhood wiffle ball game on his bmx bike with his skateboarding helmet on, that their true relationship started. As kids, Troy and Justin would square up to each other and fight often due to their competitive nature, usually resulting in someone saying “you’re not my friend anymore” after getting hurt. As adults, Justin is proud to sit back and watch Troy accomplish his dreams, as Troy is of Justin. Troy has been around for all of Justin and Ellen’s relationship, from the early days of Oswego, to the more recent ones when Justin calls him in need of assistance at the house. 

Troy Coney

Kelsey holds a special place in Ellen’s heart as her first and longest friend. They met at daycare and practically grew up at each other’s houses, sharing countless sleepovers, endless laughter, and core memories. While they were best friends, their relationship was marked by a healthy dose of competitiveness. Whether it was comparing hair length, test scores, or determining who was the tallest, Kelsey and Ellen always seemed to have a friendly rivalry. As adults, the hallmark of their friendship is the ability to seamlessly pick up where they left off, no matter how much time has passed or how far apart they may be geographically. Through every phase of life, Kelsey remains a constant, and Ellen is incredibly appreciative of their friendship.


Kelsey Lent

Alli is a caring and reliable friend with THE biggest heart. In addition to being a great friend to Ellen, Alli has always treated Ben and Buddy like her own. From delivering comfort food at a moment's notice to recently "breaking Ben out of jail" from the boarding facility, she continuously shows up for the people she loves, no matter what. There's a running joke that whenever Alli visits Justin and Ellen’s home, they need to have coffee readily available and hide all the pillows and blankets because she's sure to bundle up and inevitably fall asleep during gatherings. While it’s something the whole friend group laughs about, Justin and Ellen see it as a representation of the comfort and ease of their friendship. 



Alli McGovern

Carlie is the life of the party and radiates constant warmth and positivity to those around her. Carlie has a knack for turning an ordinary day or task into an extraordinary memory. Whether Ellen is sitting in Carlie’s salon chair, listening to music around a fire, or roaming around the West Endicott garage sales, their time together is always full of laughter and random adventures. Ellen can’t wait to dance the night away with Carlie by her side in September. 

Carlie Huffman

Jamie, otherwise known as Ellen and Justin’s neighbor, has what seems like endless energy, is remarkably talented (seriously, check out her house sometime), and has been such a genuine friend to Ellen. Before Jamie moved in next door, Ellen and Justin were pretty nervous about who their new neighbor would be. They kept an eye out for showings and low-key creeped on potential buyers before Jamie came along. Little did we know we would move from neighbors to close friends who enjoy regularly scheduled “porch bevs’, backyard bonfires, and DIY projects. 

Jamie Pastrick

Wedding Party

Friday, September 6th 7:30 PMThe Otesaga Resort Hotel (Lakeside Fire Bar)60 Lake St, Cooperstown, NY 13326(Cash bar)

Transportation to and from The Rosemary at Spano Lake:&nbsp;Guests who plan on consuming alcohol are kindly asked to arrange for a designated driver or utilize the provided shuttle service, as ride-share options are unavailable in the area. Please note that the scheduled pickup time for the shuttle service may be prior to your check-in time. We encourage you to inquire with the hotel for the possibility of an early check-in. The Shuttle Service schedule is as follows: Transportation to the Wedding:Best Western Arrival 2:30 PM / Departure to Railroad Inn 2:45 PMRailroad Inn Arrival 3:00 PM / Departure to Venue 3:15 PM Transportation After the Wedding:First Bus Departs at 9:30 PM and drops off at The Railroad Inn and The Best WesternSecond and last bus departs at 10:45PM and drops off atCooleys Stone House Tavern, The Railroad Innand The Best Western

Q + A

Immediate family and the wedding party have made arrangements to stay at a small boutique Inn in Cooperstown. For all other out of town family and friends, we have set up a room block at The Best Western Cooperstown Inn &amp; Suites where guests can book a room at the discounted rate of $185/night (before tax). Guests must call The Best Western directly at 607- 547-7100 and ask for the Vibbard/Ketchum Wedding Block to receive this rate. Please book by July 8th, 2024. The Best Western is located in a plaza (grocery store, coffee shop, McDonalds, etc..) just outside of the village of Cooperstown and is a 23 minute drive from the venue. There will be an optional shuttle to drive guests back to the hotel after the reception. Transportation to and from The Rosemary at Spano Lake: Guest who plan on consuming alcohol are asked to arrange for a designated driver or utilize the provided shuttle service due to ride share options being unavailable in the area. Please note the scheduled pickup time may be prior to your check in time, we encourage you inquire with the hotel for available early check ins. The Shuttle Service schedule is as follows: Transportation to the Wedding:Best Western Arrival 2:30 PM / Departure to Railroad Inn 2:45 PMRailroad Inn Arrival 3:00 PM / Departure to Venue 3:15 PM Transportation After the Wedding:First Bus Departs at 9:30 PM and drops off at The Railroad Inn and The Best WesternSecond and last bus departs at 10:45PM and drops off atCooleys Stone House Tavern, The Railroad Innand The Best Western

The Best Western Cooperstown Inn &amp; Suites: 50 Commons Dr, Cooperstown, NY 13326

Travel

The wedding takes place 20 minutes from Ellen's hometown of Cooperstown, NY. Cooperstown has always held a special place in the couple's hearts and they wanted to share a few of their favorite recommendations for while you are in town.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is a must see, even if you are not a huge baseball fan. Ellen's first job was at the Hall of Fame and she worked there for 6 summers while in high school/college. The Farmers Museum and The Fenimore Art Museum are also worth checking out.

The Otesaga Resort Hotel is a stately and historic landmark in Cooperstown that hosts one of the most scenic (and challenging) golf courses in Upstate New York. The Otesaga also features a lakeside fire bar - this is the location for the welcome meet and greet on Friday, September 6th at 7:30 PM.

What used to be an old bookstore is now a great spot to try out local spirits. The Cooperstown Beverage Exchange is located right on Main Street. Justin and Ellen got drinks here the evening before he proposed.

Located about 6 miles from Cooperstown, Brewery Ommegang specializes in authentic Belgian style beer. The origins date back to medieval Brussels in 1549 and "Ommegang" means to "come together" and "walk about." Justin and Ellen highly recommend Neon Rainbows for any IPA lovers.

If you are looking for a good coffee spot, look no further. Stagecoach Coffee is located just off Main Street.

Nothing goes better with Stagecoach Coffee than an old-fashioned donut from Schneider's Bakery, which has been in business since 1887.

Mel's at 22 is a restaurant serving classic American cuisine. It is located at the corner of Main Street near the only stoplight in town. Justin and Ellen ate at Mel's during Justin's first trip to Cooperstown, the evening before he proposed, and the day they viewed their wedding venue.

Cooperstown is full of hidden scenic and historic sites, including the Fernleigh Estate Stone Bridge. This 1800s Dutch style arched bridge makes you feel like you have taken a step back in time and was the perfect setting for Justin to propose.

Council Rock is a landmark signifying where Otsego Lake meets the Susquehanna River. The name Otsego&nbsp;comes from an Iroquois&nbsp;word meaning "place of the rock", referring to the large boulder near the lake's outlet. Guests can also enjoy a beautiful view of Kingfisher Tower from this location.

The village of Cooperstown has a lot to offer, these are just a few of Justin and Ellen's favorites. To learn more about Cooperstown and plan your trip, visit <a href="https://www.thisiscooperstown.com/. " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.thisiscooperstown.com/. </a>

Ellen & Justin

Ellen & Justin

Things to Do