Golden Mast Inn

Wedding Day

Wedding

Reception

Our Wedding

We owe a heartfelt thank you to my longtime friend Alyson Waeltz and her brother Tom Waeltz. &nbsp;For many years Alyson hosted an annual Christmas party at her apartment. &nbsp;In 2012, I had just finished my last day of teaching before winter break and I was exhausted. &nbsp;I decided to visit my parents after school that day. &nbsp;After chatting with my mom for a while, she asked me what I had planned for that evening. &nbsp;I told her that Alyson was having her annual Christmas party, but that I wasn’t sure if I wanted to go. &nbsp;My mom said, “Why don’t you go? &nbsp;I know you will have fun and you never know who you will meet.” &nbsp;This was not a typical thing for my mom to say and I didn’t think much about the significance of her statement until much later. &nbsp;I put my Santa hat back on and headed over to the party. &nbsp;While sitting in Alyson’s kitchen and catching up with friends, I noticed her brother Tom come in followed by a friend whom I had never met. &nbsp;I was intrigued by this new friend wearing a glow-in-the-dark, puffy painted, ugly Christmas sweatshirt. &nbsp;I greeted Tom and he introduced me to his friend Jake Kieffer. &nbsp;A while later at the party, Jake approached me in the hallway and we began a conversation. &nbsp;Food was the main topic. &nbsp;We discussed our shared interest in different types of food and discussed our favorite restaurants in Milwaukee, as well as the typical “get to know you” topics. &nbsp;This conversation continued through mingling with different friend groups and different rooms of her apartment until the end of the night. &nbsp;&nbsp;Jake and I exchanged phone numbers and then before leaving the party, I asked Alyson about her thoughts on Jake. &nbsp;Alyson immediately smiled and told me how much she liked Jake and how much she hoped I would see him again.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The holidays came and went and we texted “Happy New Year” to each other on New Year’s Eve. &nbsp;Then, a few days into the new year, Jake asked me out for our first date, set for January 5, 2013. &nbsp;We finalized plans through texting while I was riding the bus home from coaching at&nbsp;the Mt. Horeb gymnastics meet. &nbsp;I met him at the Wicked Hop in the 3rd Ward in Milwaukee. &nbsp;We shared dinner and drinks and have been dating ever since.

How We Met

On June 25, 2016, Jake suggested that we have a picnic dinner at Lake Park in Milwaukee. &nbsp;We had been talking about doing more picnic dinners and it was a perfect weather day. &nbsp;Jake bought all the dinner fixings and then we packed our bicycle pannier bags along with a blanket and biked over to Lake Park. &nbsp;We found a little nook in the park near the lighthouse and set up our blanket. &nbsp;Jake took out the many dinner courses and opened a bottle of wine. &nbsp;We had a lovely, relaxed time wining and dining and enjoying the beautiful evening. &nbsp;The only thing out of the ordinary that I noticed was that Jake was drinking his wine much faster than normal, but I just assumed he was particularly enjoying this wine. &nbsp;I figured out later that he guzzled the first glasses of wine&nbsp;because it was important that we make it to the second bottle. &nbsp;We finished the first bottle of wine and he suggested that we&nbsp;have dessert. &nbsp;He pulled out a piece of cake and a second bottle of wine to accompany the dessert. &nbsp;The wine was in a brown paper bag and he handed it to me explaining that he thought we should try a new brand. &nbsp;Intrigued (as he knew I would be), I took the bottle out of the bag and read the label. &nbsp;It took me a minute to understand the fancy font of the name on the label, which read, “Each of Each.” &nbsp;For those of you that do not know, that is a phrase that I have said since I was a child. &nbsp;It means some of each. &nbsp;It is typically used as an answer to a questions such as, “Do you want chocolate or vanilla ice cream?” or “Do you want a cookie or a brownie?” &nbsp;My family adopted my phrase and I still use it to help resolve my personal conflicts, such as, “Should I buy the red shirt or the blue shirt?...I’ll buy each of each (meaning, I’ll buy one of each).” &nbsp;Jake learned my phrase early on in dating and loved it. &nbsp;He now uses it often. &nbsp;Upon reading the wine bottle label, I became immediately angry, exclaiming, “Jake! &nbsp;Someone stole my phrase!” &nbsp;He was a bit thrown off by my extreme reaction, so he said, “Oh weird, why don’t you turn it over and read more about it.” &nbsp;I turned it over and read the text, “Each of Each. &nbsp;Two things meant to be together. &nbsp;Two things come together. &nbsp;Two things better together. &nbsp;Two things married together. &nbsp;Will you marry me?” &nbsp;I am not sure why, but I was still confused. &nbsp;I looked up at him and then read it again. &nbsp;Then he asked, “Will you marry me?” &nbsp;I looked up and he had the ring box open. &nbsp;I was stunned and then it all clicked. &nbsp;I excitedly said yes! &nbsp;Then, Jake explained to me his months of preparation that included writing the poem, getting the wine label made, talking to my parents, and getting the beautiful ring made. &nbsp;Best picnic dinner ever!

Proposal Story

Our Story

Details

Photos

Wedding Party

Q + A

Registry

We're staying here, and because of that were able to reserve a 20 room wedding block: &nbsp;Queen Studio Suite (1 queen bed) $149.99~One Bedroom Suite (2 double beds) $169.99. &nbsp;You must make your reservation by May 22. &nbsp;Credit card required (no pre-pay). &nbsp;No cancellation fee with&nbsp;24hr notification.&nbsp;&nbsp; 







You can make reservations&nbsp;by phone through the hotel at <a href="tel:(262)%20200-2900" value="+12622002900" target="_blank">262.200.2900</a> or via the Central&nbsp;Reservations&nbsp;Department at <a href="tel:(800)%20225-1237" value="+18002251237" target="_blank">800.225.1237</a>.&nbsp; You must request a room within the&nbsp;BrownKieffer&nbsp;Wedding&nbsp;Accommodations&nbsp;Block,&nbsp;Group Code: BKW&nbsp;&nbsp;to receive a room within the block at the group rate.































To Make&nbsp;Reservations&nbsp;online:









Click the link below or copy and paste&nbsp;in your web browser: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.staybridge.com/redirect?path=hd&brandCode=SB&localeCode=en&regionCode=1&hotelCode=OCOSY&_PMID=99801505&GPC=BKW&viewfullsite=true" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.staybridge.com/redirect?path%3Dhd%26brandCode%3DSB%26localeCode%3Den%26regionCode%3D1%26hotelCode%3DOCOSY%26_PMID%3D99801505%26GPC%3DBKW%26viewfullsite%3Dtrue&source=gmail&ust=1517364138126000&usg=AFQjCNFgUih3YL7aJUQ25i56Nnv_PCGIPQ"> https://www.staybridge.com/redirect?path=hd&brandCode=SB&localeCode=en®ionCode=1&hotelCode=OCOSY&_PMID=99801505&GPC=BKW&viewfullsite=true</a>







Enter Arrival Date (MM/DD/YYYY)







Enter Departure Date (MM/DD/YYYY)





Select "Check Availability"







Choose&nbsp;Room Type by selecting "Book This Room" and you will be taken to the next window&nbsp;to provide guest information and enter credit card for guarantee.*We're working to have shuttle service from this hotel.* 















 

















From Staybridge website:



































With a stay at Staybridge Suites Milwaukee West-Oconomowoc in Oconomowoc, you'll be close to Oconomowoc Arts Center and Imagination Station. This hotel is within the vicinity of Oconomowoc Historical Museum and Hawks Inn.Rooms Make yourself at home in one of the 128 air-conditioned rooms featuring kitchenettes with full-sized refrigerators/freezers and stovetops. Wired and wireless Internet access is complimentary, while 32-inch flat-screen televisions with cable programming provide entertainment. Conveniences include microwaves and coffee/tea makers, and you can also request cribs/infant beds (complimentary).Amenities Enjoy recreational amenities such as an indoor pool and a fitness center. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless Internet access and barbecue grills.Dining Mingle with other guests at a complimentary reception, held on select days. A complimentary buffet breakfast is included.Business, Other Amenities Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Oconomowoc? This hotel has facilities measuring 354 square feet (33 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.

Staybridge Suites Milwaukee West-Oconomowoc

We weren't able to reserve a wedding block, but it's just as close as Staybridge Suites and&nbsp;the rates are very reasonable.&nbsp; In 2017 a King (1 king bed) was $110, a Double (2 queen beds) $113.99.

Mention "wedding reservation" to get a rate reserved for wedding guests. 





The first night must be pre-paid.





Reservations may be canceled up to two weeks prior.*We're working to have shuttle service from this hotel.* 





 





From Hilton website: 





With a stay at Hilton Garden Inn Oconomowoc in Oconomowoc, you'll be near the airport and close to Oconomowoc Arts Center and Imagination Station. This hotel is within close proximity of Oconomowoc Historical Museum and Oconomowoc Golf Club.Rooms Make yourself at home in one of the 100 air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators and microwaves. Wired and wireless Internet access is complimentary, while 32-inch LCD televisions with satellite programming provide entertainment. Bathrooms feature shower/tub combinations, designer toiletries, and hair dryers. Conveniences include safes and desks, as well as phones with free local calls.Amenities Take advantage of recreational opportunities offered, including an indoor pool, a spa tub, and a 24-hour fitness center. This hotel also features complimentary wireless Internet access, concierge services, and ski storage.Dining Satisfy your appetite at the hotel's restaurant, which serves breakfast and dinner, or stay in and take advantage of room service (during limited hours). Quench your thirst with your favorite drink at a bar/lounge.Business, Other Amenities Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-in. Planning an event in Oconomowoc? This hotel features 1200 square feet (108 square meters) of event facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.

Hilton Garden Inn Oconomowoc

With a stay at Country Springs Hotel in Pewaukee, you'll be close to Waukesha County Expo Center and Two Brothers Wines. This family-friendly hotel is within the vicinity of Pewaukee Lake Beach and Waukesha County Museum.Rooms Make yourself at home in one of the 187 air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators and flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as desks and complimentary weekday newspapers.Amenities Enjoy a range of recreational amenities, including a water park (surcharge), a spa tub, and a fitness center. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless Internet access, an arcade/game room, and wedding services.Dining Satisfy your appetite at the hotel's restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, or stay in and take advantage of room service (during limited hours). Quench your thirst with your favorite drink at a bar/lounge.Business, Other Amenities Featured amenities include a computer station, express check-out, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Pewaukee? This hotel has 40000 square feet (3600 square meters) of space consisting of a conference center and meeting rooms. Free self parking is available onsite.

Country Springs Hotel and Water Park  (this will become The Ingleside Hotel in spring of 2018)

With a stay at AmericInn Hotel & Suites Delafield in Delafield, you'll be convenient to Nagawaukee County Park and Beach and Hawks Inn.  This hotel is within the vicinity of Lapham Peak and Oconomowoc Golf Club.Rooms Make yourself at home in one of the 56 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 phones, as well as desks and complimentary newspapers.Amenities Take advantage of recreation opportunities such as an indoor pool, or other amenities including complimentary wireless Internet access and a television in a common area.Dining A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily.Business, Other Amenities Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.

AmericInn Hotel & Suites Delafield

Located in Delafield, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Delafield is convenient to Nagawaukee County Park and Beach and Lapham Peak.  This hotel is within the vicinity of Hawks Inn and Pewaukee Lake Beach.Rooms Make yourself at home in one of the 83 air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators. Complimentary wired and wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming provides entertainment. Conveniences include safes and desks, as well as phones with free local calls.Amenities Don't miss out on the many recreational opportunities, including an indoor pool, a spa tub, and a fitness center. This hotel also features complimentary wireless Internet access and gift shops/newsstands.Dining A complimentary buffet breakfast is included.Business, Other Amenities Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Delafield

Located in Delafield, La Quinta Inn & Suites Milwaukee Delafield is in the suburbs and convenient to Nagawaukee County Park and Beach and Lapham Peak.  This hotel is within the vicinity of Hawks Inn and Pewaukee Lake Beach.Rooms Make yourself at home in one of the 96 air-conditioned rooms featuring flat-screen televisions. Wired and wireless Internet access is complimentary, while video-game consoles and cable programming provide entertainment. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include desks and coffee/tea makers, as well as phones with free local calls.Amenities Enjoy a range of recreational amenities, including an indoor pool, a spa tub, and a fitness center. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless Internet access and a fireplace in the lobby.Dining A complimentary continental breakfast is included.Business, Other Amenities Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-out. Planning an event in Delafield? This hotel features 150 square feet (14 square meters) of event facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.

Katie & Jake

Katie & Jake

Registry