Rehearsal Dinner

Brown County State Park

Our Wedding

We like to joke that we’re a “COVID couple” because our story began on Hinge in the summer of 2020. We were both in Muncie, Indiana at the time. Kayla was in the short window between finishing undergrad and starting graduate school, and Chris was living and working there too. Our first date was at Applebee’s for half-off appetizers, a casual choice that turned into a three-hour conversation about everything from sports to life goals. Talking felt easy, and something about it simply felt right. Our second date sealed that feeling. With most places still closed, we decided to take a walk along the White River. What started as a perfect summer afternoon quickly turned chaotic. Shortly into our walk, we found ourselves in a complete downpour despite a forecast of less than a 10% chance of rain. Instead of calling it quits, we laughed and kept walking. By the time we were soaked to the bone, we already knew we had found our person. A week later, Kayla began her Master’s at Ball State, and we settled naturally into a rhythm of long nights, late-night papers, and cheering each other on. By the time graduation arrived, Kayla had accepted a job in Scottsdale, Arizona. In June 2022, we packed up our life, bringing only what could fit in our cars, including our cat, a pile of board games, a growing rock collection, and some kitchen gear. We caravanned 1,700 miles with help from Kayla’s mom. Arizona quickly started to feel like home. We filled our weekends with day trips, desert hikes, and LOTS of sunshine. A year later, on our first real getaway with a reliable car, we finally made it to the Grand Canyon. At the Bright Angel Trail vista, Chris proposed, with only a chunky squirrel there to witness it. Life wasn’t without challenges. Just a month after getting engaged, our apartment flooded—and then flooded again three months later. Over two years, we moved four times. It was exhausting, but it reminded us how strong we are together and how much we rely on each other when things go sideways. Through it all, we’ve built a life full of curiosity, fun, and shared traditions. Our first Valentine’s Day was spent playing a thrifted board game, which sparked a shared passion that has since grown into a collection of more than 200 titles, almost all secondhand finds. Chris introduced Kayla to disc golf, which we now play nearly every weekend, and Kayla introduced Chris to rockhounding, a hobby that has quickly become part of our regular adventures. And through every move and every chapter, our cat, Marnie, has kept her title as the queen of the house. Now, as we look ahead to marriage, we’re excited to keep adventuring together. We’re not in a hurry to “arrive” anywhere; we’re more focused on growing, laughing, and building on the friendship that has been our foundation from day one. Whether we’re moving to a new city, hunting for rocks, trying a new board game, or enjoying a quiet evening at home, we know life will bring plenty of surprises, and we wouldn’t want to face any of them with anyone else.

Our Story

How do I pronounce 'Swier'?

“Swier” is pronounced S-wire — it rhymes with “wire.”

What's for dinner?

We will be having an array of BBQ meat and sides. There will be a tea and lemonade stand and plenty of desserts to choose from! Come hungry!

Will there be snacks at cocktail hour? 

Will There be Alcohol?

Yes! A light selection of Beer and Seltzers will be provided. If you fancy something different, feel free to BYOB! Please drink responsibly. We are going for a 'family reunion' vibe and there is no ride share in the area.

Will I need to pay the gate fee?

No. You will not need to pay at the gate. We will be covering the entry fee for all guests to Brown County State Park on Saturday, May 16, 2026. Please show your invitation to the Park Gate Attendant for free park entry on Saturday, May 16, 2026.

Are kids allowed to come? 

Yes! Bringing your children is completely up to you. We would love to have little ones join in the celebration if that’s what feels right for your family. There is even a small playground right next to our reception space! We’ve made sure your children (of all ages) are included on your RSVP so we can plan food and seating accordingly. If your child or children are not listed, please reach out to Kayla (574-242-1944).

Q + A

Please check back here regularly as we get closer to the big day. We will post any updates on this page.

Dress Code

Casual &amp; Park-Ready. We're tying the knot outdoors, so think picnic-in-the-park vibes! Expect some mud, uneven ground, and a few friendly bugs. Please wear whatever helps you feel comfy, cool, and ready to enjoy a day at the park. Sundresses, sandals, shorts, jeans, and sneakers are all welcome. Heels are NOT recommend. We just want you to have fun and feel like yourself!

Schedule

Ceremony | 3:30 PMBrown County State ParkNature Center Amphitheater Cocktail Hour | 4:00 PM Brown County State ParkLower Shelter Reception &amp; Dinner | 5:30 PM Brown County State ParkLower Shelter Park closes @ 11:00 PM

Suggested Items to Bring

A day in Brown County State Park is best enjoyed when you’re comfortable and prepared. While we’ll provide the essentials, here are a few extras you may want to have on hand: Your Invitation – Show your invitation to the Park Gate Attendant for free park entry on Saturday, May 16. Sunscreen &amp; Sunglasses – The May sun can be bright, especially during the afternoon. Bug Spray – Gnats and mosquitoes sometimes like to join the party. Lawn Chair (Optional) – Benches will be available for the ceremony and picnic tables at the reception, but if you love your favorite camp chair, feel free to bring it along. Comfortable Shoes – Paths to the ceremony and reception areas are short but include gravel, stairs, and grass. Heels are NOT recommended. Light Jacket or Sweater – Evenings in May can cool down in the hills.

Getting to the Park

Brown County State Park is a very popular destination — and the weekend of our wedding, it also will also host a large car show. Please expect heavier traffic, wait times at the entrance gates, and slower driving within the park, especially on Saturday. To ensure a smooth arrival, we recommend planning at least 30-45 extra minutes for getting into and driving through the park. If you arrive early, please see the ‘Before the Wedding’ section for local recommendations. The Nature Center (located right next to the ceremony space) is a perfect stop with exhibits, air conditioning, and restrooms.

Download the Image Above: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hTB4i9aKW738tPcZyMzXxr1PbA8dM7mo/view?usp=sharing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kayla &amp; Chris Wedding Map Image</a> Brown County State Park Map: <a href="https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks/files/brown_co_trail.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Brown County State Park Map (DNR Map)</a> Ceremony: <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/mU9ufpY9jqyU3FVg8" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Google Maps Pin</a> Reception: <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/SHVDgcUi8phU4iyL9" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Google Maps Pin</a>

The Ceremony 

Our ceremony will take place at the amphitheater behind the Brown County State Park Nature Center, located about 15 minutes inside the park from either the North or West entrance. Once inside, follow signs for the Nature Center. After parking, the amphitheater is a short 1–2 minute walk down a gravel, slightly downhill path to the right of the Friends Shelter. Signs will guide you along the way. If the path feels difficult, you are welcome to watch from the Nature Center patio, which offers a beautiful view of the event.

The Reception

From the Nature Center, return to the main park road and follow signs for the Lower Shelter. The drive takes about 10 minutes and stays entirely within the park. Be sure to stop at some of the vistas along the way! The shelter is located near the North Entrance and shares a parking lot with the Saddle Barn. The entrance to this lot is directly across from the tennis courts. Once parked, you’ll find the Lower Shelter at the opposite end of the lot from the Saddle Barn.

Wedding Day Details

How to Book: You can ONLY book with this room block by calling 812-988-2284 and ask for the Snyder-Swier Wedding Block. This rate is NOT available with online booking. Nightly Minimum: You’re welcome to book for just one night if preferred. Simply let the receptionist know you’d like to adjust the dates within the rate window. Distance: 3 minutes to Brown County State Park North Entrance &amp; 13 min to the Nature Center (ceremony location) Rate: $154 per night (+15% tax) Deposit: One night’s deposit required; second night due at check-in. Cancellation: 2 days’ notice for a full refund Cut-off date: April 14, 2026 Check-in/Check-out: 3:00 PM Check-in / 12:00 PM Check-out Amenities: On-site dining room for lunch and dinner (no breakfast)

The Seasons Lodge

How to Book: The easiest way to book is by clicking the ‘Website’ button below and using the reservation link You can also call the hotel directly at (812) 720-9031.Group Name: Swier-WeddingGroup Number: SN18O3 Nightly Minimum: You’re welcome to book for just one night if preferred, simply adjust the dates when making your reservation through the link. Distance: 3 minutes to Brown County State Park North Entrance &amp; 13 min to the Nature Center (ceremony location) Rate: $189 per night (+$10 per additional adult) Room types: King or 2 Queen beds (non-smoking) Cancellation: Cancel by 4:00 p.m. local hotel time, 3 days prior to arrival, to avoid a $189 fee Cut-off date: April 14, 2026 Check-in/Check-out: 3:00 PM Check-In / 11:00 AM Check-Out

Quality Inn Nashville - Bloomington

Other Accomodations

Important Note: The Abe Martin Lodge inside Brown County State Park is fully booked for this weekend, as all rooms and cabins are reserved under a large room block for the same weekend. This means that, unless you are camping, there are no overnight accommodations available inside the park. Unbooked rooms may be available closer to the event but cannot be guaranteed. If you’re looking for alternatives to our room blocks, there are several options nearby:

Columbus, IN (20 minutes straight down HWY 46)

Columbus, IN (20 minutes straight down Highway 46)There are several hotels on the west side of Columbus, conveniently located right off Interstate 65, making it easy to get to and from Brown County State Park. For those seeking more budget-friendly options, Columbus offers a variety of affordable overnight stays. A couple of nearby choices include:- <a href="https://www.reservationdesk.com/hotel/6944f37/country-inn--suites-by-radisson-columbus-edinburgh-columbus-indiana/?cid=sem::TPRD::BA::SL6::::::country%20inn%20edinburgh%20columbus%20in::p&amp;creative=&amp;device=c&amp;AdPos=&amp;utm_source=bing&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_term=country%20inn%20edinburgh%20columbus%20in&amp;utm_campaign=&amp;iv_=__iv_p_1_a_333065453_g_1317217517260276_w_kwd-82327436545422:loc-4083_h_78181_ii_41944_d_c_v__n_o_c__k_country%20inn%20edinburgh%20columbus%20in_m_p_l__t__e_7834079074024_r__vi__&amp;msclkid=43f8da92c03e1a7cd633b2312259a5d2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Country Inn &amp; Suites by Radisson, Columbus–Edinburgh</a>-<a href="https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/days-inn/columbus-indiana/days-inn-columbus-in/overview?CID=LC:iqv0j1dklijly45:06295&amp;iata=00093796" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Days Inn by Wyndham Columbus IN</a>

Camping

For the outdoor adventurers, there are camping options both inside Brown County State Park and nearby at Yellowwood State Forest. Brown County State Park: Campsites can be reserved online at <a href="https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks/reservations/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Indiana State Parks Reservations</a>. Yellowwood State Forest: Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cabins, Inns, and Vacation Rentals

Nashville, IN and the surrounding area are full of charming inns, B&amp;Bs, rental cabins, and Airbnbs. Since our wedding weekend coincides with a popular car show, we strongly recommend booking early to secure a place to stay.

Room Blocks & Lodging

For Guests Flying In

Nashville, Indiana is a charming small town nestled in the rolling hills of Brown County. While it’s the closest town to Brown County State Park, it isn’t located near a major airport. Guests traveling from out of state will need to rent a car, as rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are very limited in this area and do not service trips into the park. From Indianapolis International Airport (IND)Distance: ~55 milesDrive Time: About 1 hour 15 minutesRoute: Take I-465 South to I-65 South, then exit onto IN-46 East toward Nashville. From Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF)Distance: ~90 milesDrive Time: About 1 hour 45 minutesRoute: Take I-65 North to IN-46 East toward Nashville.

You will not need to pay at the gate. We will be covering the entry fee for all guests to Brown County State Park on Saturday, May 16, 2026. Please show your invitation to the Park Gate Attendant for free park entry on Saturday, May 16, 2026.

Nashville Traffic

Nashville is a small, walkable village with one road through which can cause some congestion. Major congestion is rare, but GPS systems can sometimes suggest odd routes due to limited road connectivity. Road conditions can be monitored <a href="https://511in.org/@-86.63086,38.54386,9?show=incidents,normalCameras,stationsAlert,weatherWarningsAreaEvents,plowCameras,flooding" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>. Use the search bar to check traffic, construction, and road updates for Nashville, Indiana.

Entering Brown County State Park

The park draws millions of visitors each year, and May weekends can feel especially busy. During our wedding weekend, a large car show will also be taking place (Saturday, May 16, 2026). Expect heavier traffic near park entrances and along IN-46 through downtown Nashville. Lines at the gates may be longer, and parking lots can fill quickly, particularly on Saturday mornings and afternoons. NOTE: GPS directions are not always reliable inside the park. If your route seems unusual, follow Park signage.

Travel Details

Nashville, Indiana

This charming, walkable village is filled with family-owned shops, boutiques, cafés, galleries, and restaurants—perfect for strolling, shopping, and soaking in the small-town charm. Almost all shops are locally-owned and are typically open from 10-5, but vary from shop to shop. If this is your first time visiting the area, check out the links below for planning your visit: <a href="https://browncounty.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Brown County Indiana Tourism Page</a>

Local Food Recommendations 

BreakfastOoeyGooey Cinnamon Rolls &amp; Café (a MUST)Artists Colony Inn &amp; Restaurant Lunch / DinnerCasa Del SolBig WoodsHard TruthBrozinni's Pizza Learn about local <a href="https://browncounty.com/taste-list/category/breweries-wineries-distilleries/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Breweries, Wineries, &amp; Distilleries</a>

Inside the park you’ll find scenic overlooks and trails for all experience levels. <a href="https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks/parks-lakes/brown-county-state-park/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Brown County State Park Official Page</a> Watchtowers &amp; Vistas: Stop at one of the many overlooks to take in sweeping views of Brown County’s rolling hills. We marked some of our favorites on the map! Campground Store: Located near the campground and accessible from the main road—great for grabbing a pop or small snack. Ogle Lake (Trail 7): A peaceful 17-acre reservoir surrounded by forest. You can enjoy the view from your car or take the 1.5-mile moderate trail that loops around the lake’s scenic shoreline. Friends Trail: Located near the park office, this short, paved trail features benches and a small vista along flat terrain—perfect for an easy stroll. Discovery Trail: Adjacent to the Nature Center, this 0.5-mile self-guided trail offers a moderate hike through the woods. A brochure is available at the trailhead on the south end of the Nature Center parking lot. Nature Center: Stop by to explore the bird-watching room and other nature displays highlighting the park’s wildlife. Please consult the <a href="https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks/files/brown_co_trail.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">official Brown County State Park map</a> for all park attractions and details.

Kayla & Chris