Trap Rock Restaurant & Brewery

Rehearsal Dinner

Stone House at Stirling Ridge

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

Reception

Our Wedding

Our love story began in January 2021, at a time when the world felt uncertain, but one thing became clear from the start—something special was happening between us. Like many couples these days, we met on an online dating site and decided to take a chance on a first date at Killarney’s. The restaurant was nearly empty (thank you, pandemic), but that only made it easier for us to truly connect. Kristen came armed with a full list of questions (she called it “getting to know each other,” Brian called it “an FBI-level interrogation”), but he took it all in stride. Even through the nerves, he quickly realized Kristen was smart, funny, and had an energy that was impossible to ignore. Kristen, meanwhile, couldn’t help but notice that Brian had the most beautiful blue eyes—and that he was much quieter than she was. But even with all the rapid-fire questioning, he never once tried to escape, which seemed like a good sign. Between our busy work schedules, Brian as a correction officer and Kristen as a teacher, our dating schedule was limited to one night a week. But one date turned into two, then three, and soon enough, we had a routine of finding new restaurants, sharing great conversations, and making each other laugh—often with well-timed jokes or eye-roll-worthy humor. It became clear we were onto something special.

A few months later, we took our first vacation together to Lake George. That trip became a tradition for us, but it will always be extra special because it’s where Brian, just before saying goodnight, casually slipped in the words, “I love you.” No big speech, no grand gesture—just a simple, genuine moment. From there, life together kept getting better. Kristen adopted a puppy to add to Brian’s crew of two (because three dogs just makes life more exciting), our patience was tested by moving between houses, not once but twice (we do not recommend), and we celebrated Brian’s promotion to Sergeant. We’ve spent our time cooking together, discovering new breweries, and exploring new trails with our dogs—who are probably more spoiled than they should be.

In June 2024, during a family vacation in Myrtle Beach, Brian proposed on the beach with both of our parents there to celebrate. It was the perfect way to start the next chapter of our lives, and now, as we plan our wedding, we’re beyond excited for everything the future holds—starting a family, finding our forever home, traveling more, and continuing to build a life filled with love, laughter, and, let’s be honest… more brewery visits.We’re so excited to celebrate with all of you—our favorite people—on our wedding day!

Our Story

Photos

Nicole Bruning

Philip Gengler

Shannon Brenner

Kevin Gengler

Shelby Wyckoff

Sean Reinsel

Stefannie Harman

Theresa Balestrieri

Wedding Party

Q + A

Please let us know if the room block is full and you have difficulty booking. We may be able to add additional rooms pending hotel availability. You can reach out to Kristen at kbruning527@gmail.com

Embassy Suites by Hilton Berkeley Heights

Travel

Things to Do

Registry

Kristen & Brian

Kristen & Brian

Registry