Wedding Day

Ceremony at Ascension Church Bismarck

Radisson Hotel Bismarck

Reception

Social hour 

Reception 

Our Wedding

We met in high school, just two teenagers who happened to share the same circle of friends. Back then, life was simple. There were football games, late-night drives, and memories we didn’t realize would mean so much one day. We were growing up side by side without even knowing what God was building behind the scenes.Then 2020 came. COVID changed the world, but in a strange way, it gave us something special. With everything shut down, our small friend group became our whole world, and we spent nearly every day together. Somewhere in the middle of that season, our friendship turned into something deeper. What started as two friends slowly became a forever kind of love.After high school, we both chose the University of North Dakota. Elijah continued pursuing his passion on the football field while earning his bachelor’s degree in Business Management. Watching him balance early practices, long workouts, and classes showed just how driven and disciplined he is. Kate found her home away from home in Alpha Phi, where the sisterhood shaped her in so many ways while she worked toward her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing. Stepping into a career centered around caring for others has always felt like a calling.But, college was not just about earning degrees. It was about growing together. We became each other’s home and safe place, spending nearly every day side by side. Whether we were watching movies, traveling, going out to eat, or playing games, our favorite thing was simply being together. With dedication, hard work, and the unwavering support of our families and friends, we continued to grow both individually and as a couple.After graduating, we took the next big step and moved in together. During that season, Kate began her first nursing job at Altru, and Elijah started his master’s degree in Business. About a year later, we made the decision to move back home. After building our lives and careers, we realized what matters most is family. Being closer to the people who raised us, supported us, and prayed for us has been one of our greatest blessings. Weekly family dinners, familiar streets, and lifelong friends make it truly feel like home.Today, Kate works in the operating room at Sanford, and Elijah works at Bobcat. We are so thankful for the journey that brought us here. From high school to college graduations, from uncertain days during COVID, to building a life back home, every chapter has shaped us. What started as a simple friendship became a lifetime kind of love, and we would not change a single part of our story. We cannot wait to begin this next chapter together, forever.

Our Story 

Photos

Rachel Dillman

Max Gunderson

Rylee Bowers

Trey Weist

Erin Waletzko

Brian Dillman

Reese Zaeske 

Christian Bondeson

Jaysea Bowers 

Blake Walthall

Kaia Dillman

Brady Walthall

Mckenzie Klein

Jaxton Wiest

Keaton Meschke 

Maddie Deics

Jace Dillman

Kait Mercil 

Dontae Maloney

Wedding Party

A room block has been secured at the Radisson Hotel at a preferred rate of $129.99 per night (9/24/26 through 9/26/26). Guests may obtain this rate by calling the hotel directly and referencing the Dillman/Klein room block. A free transfer service to Bismarck Airport is available. A flat-screen cable TV, a seating area with a work desk and coffee-making facilities are featured in all air-conditioned rooms at Radisson Hotel Bismarck. An private bathroom is also included. A 24-hour front desk assists guests at Bismarck Radisson Hotel. A business center and a fitness center are available. Guests can play a game of blackjack on site. The property offers free parking.

Travel

Making a Weekend of It? Here Are Some Local Favorites! 🛳️ Sightseeing &amp; River Views Lewis &amp; Clark Riverboat ( If open)Cruise the Missouri River and enjoy beautiful views. Missouri River Walking &amp; Bike TrailsTake in the fresh air, scenic river views, and North Dakota sunsets along the trail system. 🦁 Family-Friendly Attractions Dakota ZooHome to 600+ animals on 90 acres, making it a great stop for families and animal lovers. 📍 602 Riverside Park Rd, Bismarck, ND 58504 Gateway to ScienceA hands-on science center with interactive exhibits for all ages—perfect if the weather is cooler. 📍 1600 Canary Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501 Sertoma ParkA local favorite with playgrounds, walking paths, mini golf, and plenty of space for kids to play. 🏛️ History &amp; Culture North Dakota Heritage Center &amp; State MuseumExplore exhibits covering North Dakota's geology, history, culture, and prehistoric past. 📍 612 E Boulevard Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501 North Dakota State CapitolTake a free tour and visit the observation deck for panoramic views of the city. 📍 600 E Boulevard Ave, Bismarck, ND 58505 🍿 Other Fun Spots Grand TheatresCatch a movie and enjoy a relaxed indoor outing. 📍 1486 Interstate Loop, Bismarck, ND 58503 Midway LanesA classic bowling alley offering bowling, arcade games, food, and drinks great for families, groups, or a casual afternoon indoors. 📍 3327 Memorial Hwy #4696, Mandan, ND 58554 Where to Eat🍽️ Date Night &amp; Special Occasion Pirogue GrilleA downtown favorite known for seasonal dishes and an elevated dining experience. Bistro 1100New American and Italian-inspired cuisine in a charming historic setting. Anima CucinaItalian café and wine bar featuring charcuterie boards, small plates, and rotating menu offerings. 🌎 International Favorites India Clay Oven Bar &amp; GrillDelicious Indian cuisine with flavorful curries, tandoori specialties, and vegetarian options. Charras &amp; TequilaA local favorite for tacos, fajitas, margaritas, and Mexican-inspired dishes. 🍕 Casual Local Favorites The Walrus RestaurantKnown for burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, and a great local atmosphere. The Paddle Trap (Mandan)Popular for hearty burgers, sandwiches, and classic comfort food. Fireflour Pizza + Coffee BarWood-fired pizzas, local brews, and excellent coffee. Blarney Stone PubClassic Irish pub fare in a lively atmosphere. Families are welcome during designated family-friendly hours. CraftCadeAn arcade bar with classic games and a fun atmosphere. Families and kids are welcome on Sundays. Tiff's PubA casual neighborhood pub within walking distance of many downtown attractions. 🍻 Bars &amp; Nightlife All of these spots are within walking distance from the wedding venue. LÜFT Rooftop Bar (21+)Enjoy rooftop views, cocktails, and a fun atmosphere. Gideon's Brewing CompanyA locally loved craft brewery featuring rotating beer selections. 510.2 SpeakeasyA stylish cocktail bar tucked away downtown. RoundhouseA local gathering spot offering drinks, and apps. Sidelines BarA popular sports bar with plenty of TVs, cold drinks, and a casual setting to catch a game. The Jousting LemurA unique wine bar offering self-serve wine tastings, charcuterie, and small plates. 🍻 Other fun bars! Laughing Sun BrewingKnown for craft beer, BBQ, live music, ax throwing, games, and a welcoming local vibe. Shakers on ThirdA downtown cocktail lounge featuring handcrafted Martinis , a stylish atmosphere, and an outdoor patio.

Things to Do

Registry Notice Our registry page on The Knot is currently experiencing display issues. Some items may incorrectly appear as unavailable or out of stock, even though they are still available through the original store. To view the most accurate registry information, please use the direct links below. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/wedding/share/KateElijah2026" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Amazon Registry</a> <a href="https://www.honeyfund.com/site/dillman-klein-09-26-2026" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Honeyfund</a> <a href="https://www.target.com/gift-registry/gift-giver?registryId=19777f30-2d63-11f1-a704-51e6a3692535&amp;type=WEDDING" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Target Registry</a>

Registry Links 

Registry

🤍Ceremony - 1:30 p.m.Church of the Ascension, Bismarck 🤍Social Hour - 3:30 p.m.Radisson Hotel, Bismarck 🤍Reception - 5 p.m.Radisson Hotel, Bismarck 🤍Dance - 7:30 p.m.Radisson Hotel, Bismarck

Outline of the Day 

Frequently Asked Questions We wanted to answer a few common questions ahead of time so everyone can arrive ready to celebrate with us! Can I bring a plus one? We’re so excited to celebrate with our favorite people! If you received an invitation with a plus one, their name will be listed on your invitation. If your invite does not include a guest, we kindly ask that you attend solo for dinner. Due to venue capacity, we aren’t able to accommodate additional dinner guests. However, if you have someone you’d like to bring later in the evening, they are certainly welcome to join us for the dance! Are kids invited? We love your little ones! Due to venue capacity, we’re only able to include a small number of children who are listed on the invitation. If your invitation includes your child’s name or says “family,” they are invited. Otherwise, we hope you’ll enjoy a kid-free evening and celebrate the night with us. In addition, children who are one year old and under may not be listed on the RSVP, but are more than welcome to join. We understand that finding a babysitter for little ones can be difficult. However, due to seating limitations, a reserved seat will not be available.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Kate & Elijah

Kate & Elijah

Photos