Engagement Party

Rehearsal Dinner

Grand Island Mansion

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Bachelor(ette) Party

Our Wedding

We met while working as EMTs, bonded by our mutual understanding of long shifts, late-night coffee runs, and a shared commitment to helping others. What started as mutual respect and professional teamwork quickly grew into an easy friendship, filled with sarcasm, support, and shared snacks during downtime. Our connection truly deepened during a medical deployment to Burning Man. Out in the desert, surrounded by dust, art, and the unexpected, we faced daily challenges, medical calls at all hours, intense heat, and problem-solving on the fly. We learned to trust each other under pressure, to laugh through exhaustion, and to lean on one another when things got tough. That wild week in the desert didn’t just test our skills, it brought us closer in ways we never expected. Not long after, we decided to make our partnership official, both personally and professionally. We adopted the most spirited Belgian Malinois puppy (who may or may not think she’s in charge of our lives), and moved in together in Folsom, California. Between puppy training, work shifts, and weekend hikes, we’ve built a life full of adventure, loyalty, and love. Now, after a year and a half of growing together, we’re ready to take the next step. We can’t wait to celebrate with all the people who’ve supported and cheered us on, from the very beginning to the moment we say I do.

Our Story

Photos

Samantha Smith

Chris McLaughlin

Kate Ratajczak

Russ Clevelend

Sam Lucero-Taylor

Daniel Conceicao

Kristen Layton

Christian Layton

Anika Bauman

Sieren Smith

James Wilson

Rachel Bever

Wedding Party

Lodging

There are several great places to stay near Walnut Grove, ranging from cozy riverfront inns to charming bed-and-breakfasts and nearby hotels. We have included a few options below. We recommend looking in Walnut Grove, Locke, and the surrounding Delta area for the most convenient options. For those who prefer more amenities, larger hotels can be found just 20–30 minutes away in Elk Grove or Lodi. We encourage booking early, as local accommodations can fill up quickly, especially on weekends!

This hotel in Elk Grove is a 25 minute drive from the venue. It features an outdoor pool and hot tub, free WiFi and rooms with LCD TV. Each room includes cable TV with a free movie channel, a coffee maker and hair dryer. Elk Grove Laguna Hampton Inn and Suites offers a gym and a full-service business center. Guests can enjoy the daily continental breakfast or get snacks from the market.

Hampton Inn & Suites Sacramento-Elk Grove Laguna I-5

Located 22 minutes from the venue, this smoke-free hotel provides a hot breakfast daily and an on-site gym. The Holiday Inn Express Elk Grove West I-5 features free WiFi, a microwave and a mini-refrigerator in each guestroom, an outdoor pool and hot tub, and an on-site gift shop.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Elk Grove West I-5 by IHG

We’ve gathered a few Airbnb options to help you get started, there are plenty more to explore!

Airbnb Options

Travel

Things to Do

Registry

Wedding party links

We kindly request guests to dress in formal attire for our special day. While black tie is optional, we encourage an elevated, elegant look in keeping with the occasion. Men may choose to wear a dark suit and tie or a tuxedo if you're feeling extra fancy. Women are asked to wear floor-length dresses or formal gowns. As the wedding will take place in the fall, please dress appropriately for cooler temperatures, rich fabrics and layered looks are welcome. Shawls, wraps, or dressy outerwear are recommended for outdoor moments. We can’t wait to celebrate with you in style!

Attire

FAQs

James & Catherine

James & Catherine

Registry