While we technically first met back in 2018, our story didn't truly begin until fall of 2023. After flirtatious talks surrounding random topics like Christmas and Marvel movies, Joey finally summoned up the confidence to ask Emily on a coffee date.

The first date began with Joey starting to wonder whether or not he was being stood up, as he waited inside the coffee shop looking like a lost child at the grocery store. Then, in heroic fashion, the love interest appeared. What was expected to be your average, awkward first date turned into three hours of nonstop chatter, laughter, and an undeniable feeling of comfort. A second date was quickly planned, followed by a third, fourth, and so on.

As the relationship continued to grow, they began to hit the big milestones. Joey asking Emily to make things official (which he waited too long to do), the first kiss (which he waited WAY too long to do), the first "I love you" (he did good on that one), and they quickly became inseparable.

Soon into the relationship, it became clear where it was going. Both Joey and Emily knew that marriage was in store, it was just a matter of when and where. Continuing their untraditional trends, they even went as far as to start the search for the perfect ring just four months into the relationship (and guess what: they found it).

As fall approached, Joey knew it was time. The location was a no-brainer, as there was no better proposal spot for Emily than Vala's Pumpkin Patch. He had the ring, he had the approval from Emily's parents, now he just had to make it happen. Wasting no time, he quickly landed on the date (October 1st), got the photographer (the one and only Lindsey Koziol), and used the help of a few of the Bride's friends to make the magic happen (thank you Courtney and Katie).

Then, it happened. The guy who thought he was getting stood up got engaged to the girl that showed up late in the Volkswagen Beetle (shoutout Britney). It was perfect. And now, it's time to make things official.

Joey and Emily are ready to make a lifelong commitment. To serve each other, to love each other, to be there for each other on the best days and the worst days. They can't wait for the best day of their lives, and are so excited that you get to be a part of their journey.

J&E

Kirkle/Grage Wedding

4:00 PM–4:30 PM

Ceremony

6:30 PM–11:00 PM

Reception