Il Rione Pizzeria

Bridal Shower

St. Joseph Catholic Church

Family Dinner

St Joseph Catholic Church - Old Mission Peninsula

Rehearsal + White Party

Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery

Brys Estate Vineyards

Ceremony

Delamar Traverse City

Cocktail Hour + Reception

Summer

Please review the rest of our website for more information.

Our Wedding

THE WORLD SHUT DOWN

Some may say the 2020 Pandemic was the worst year of their lives however Luka and Lauren would argue quite the opposite. In May of 2020, Luka and Lauren met for the first time at his German Village apartment after matching a few times on Hinge. Yes, a few times - the algorithm really wanted them to meet. Lauren baked Luka 2 strudels before their first date to steal his heart. Their first date included a walk around Schiller Park with some wine and talking non-stop while watching the sunset from Luka's balcony. First dates turned into third dates, and so-on. The world was shut down but Luka and Lauren's lives together had just begun.

DATING

Luka and Lauren quickly realized how they were meant to be. They both loved to travel, eat delicious food (especially pastries), drink good wine, and most of all - be around each other. Between Lauren finishing her Bachelor's of Nursing, they would travel first to Traverse City - where Lauren recalls telling her friends and family that "he's the one." Then off to Charleston, Ashville, Miami, The Keys, and National Parks out west.

OUR FIRST HOME

In June of 2021, Luka and Lauren moved into their first home together in Columbus. They quickly realized they were missing one thing, a fur baby. They rescued Moose from a shelter just a month later and started their new family.

LOVE NEAR & FAR

Lauren and Luka's love for one another grew even stronger. Life was busy as Lauren finished her Master's Degree and became a Nurse Practitioner however they supported each other through these busy times. They found time for each other and even continued their travels to Croatia, Michigan, Hawaii, Arizona, California, and more. No matter where they were in the world, they found home in each other.

ENGAGEMENT

On January 5, 2024, Luka proposed to Lauren under the Northern Lights outside of Tromso, Norway during a surprise trip to Scandinavia.

Our Story

Our Engagement

January 5, 2024 - Tromso, Norway

SCANDINAVIAN ENGAGEMENT

January 7, 2024 - Tromso, Norway

Photos

Wedding Party

We ask that you please inform us as soon as possible where you plan to lodge. We encourage our guests to make this celebration into a little vacation if possible and stay awhile to experience Northern Michigan.

Please note that the reception is also at Delamar. A room block is available. We recommend booking your room as soon as possible. When you stay at Delamar Traverse City in Traverse City, you'll be on the waterfront. Enjoy a meal at Bistro or snacks in the hotel's coffee shop/cafe. Quench your thirst with your favorite drink at the bar/lounge. A complimentary continental breakfast is served on weekdays from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and on weekends from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary (available 24 hours). Be sure to enjoy recreational amenities, including an outdoor pool, an indoor pool, and a spa tub. Getting to nearby attractions is a breeze with the complimentary area shuttle that operates within 3 miles.

Hotel Indigo Traverse City

There are plenty of Airbnb &amp; Vrbos available in the area. We do advise you to book your stay as soon as possible. Northern Michigan is a very popular destination in the summer months and the good ones book quickly. If you would like to stay close to the reception - Traverse City, Old Mission, Sutton's Bay. If you are staying for an extended time and love doing outdoorsy things (beach, hiking) - Empire, Glen Arbor, Leland, Torch Lake. Below we listed some of our favorite airbnbs &amp; vrbos!

AIRBNB & VRBO

9 sleeps guests, 4 bedrooms, 6 beds, 3 baths. Close to everything!

Secluded Luxury midcentury home w shared beach

A Northern Michigan agriturismo - Luxury farm stay, vineyard and private agricultural estate in Leelanau County, MI. Newly renovated with modern style. 5-bedroom, 5-bath house. Finished basement with large couch. Could sleep 12+.

The Allium Hill House

Accommodations

We hope that you make our wedding weekend into a relaxing trip to enjoy the beauty of Northern Michigan. We have curated a list of our favorite things to do in the area. If you're staying for just 36 hours, you can also read<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/05/23/travel/things-to-do-traverse-city.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The New York Times: 36 Hours in Traverse City</a>

HIKING

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

One of our favorites due to the beautiful view seen above. This is a mild to moderate hike that is family friendly, with arguable one of the best views in all of Northern Michigan - well, we would argue that.

Empire Bluff Trail

This trail is very private and it's unlikely to see many hikers. It offers a beautiful view of Lake Michigan and Manitou Islands.

Clay Cliffs Natural Area: The Leelanau Conservancy

You will see people doing the Pyramid Point dune climb. This part of the hike is only for experienced hikers.

Pyramid Point Trailhead

BEACH

Paddle from Empire Beach to the base of Sleeping Bear Dunes! It's a long paddle but worth it.

Empire Beach

Located in the northern part of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore at the Lake Michigan end of County Road 651. Going north from Glen Arbor, turn left onto CR-651. Parking is available in the lot and along the roadside.

Good Harbor Bay Beach

Although this can be a beach spot, it's more so known for observing the lighthouse and coming here for sunset. The Light House sits on the 45th parallel - so 1/2 way between the equator and the North Pole. If you're lucky, you may also see the Northern Lights from here!

Mission Point Lighthouse

Torch Lake is also known as the Bahama's of the MidWest, renowned for its&nbsp;crystal-clear turquoise waters and picturesque landscapes. We recommend renting kayaks or a boat from Luhr's Landing and then relax down the Torch River into the south end of Torch Lake - which is where the famous sandbar is located.

Torch Lake Sandbar

Glen Lake DNR Boat Ramp

Pet friendly beach with beautiful views of Sleeping Bear Dunes with the Manitou Islands in the background.

Esch Beach

Platte River Canoe Launch

BIKING

Leelanau Trail Cherry Bend Rd Trailhead

Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail

VINEYARDS

Northern Michigan is known to have some of the best vineyards! The climate makes it the perfect spot. We highly recommend stopping at some vineyards. We have dedicated an entire tab to this Northern Michigan must.

Sip the Vino

EXPLORING

The quaint town of Glen Arbor, nestled among the Crystal River, the Glen Lakes and Lake Michigan, is a family favorite. There is plenty of outdoor recreational activities and boutique shopping this this town.

Glen Arbor

Historic Fishtown

Traverse City offers a lovely farmers market on 7:30 AM to noon on Saturdays &amp; 8:00 AM to noon on Wednesdays.

Farmers Market

Explore the artsy &amp; quaint Suttons Bay. This year ‘round coastal village has a quality all its own…specialty shops, galleries, unique dining experiences, vineyards, historic inns, and family beaches.

Suttons Bay

Petoskey is about a little over an hour drive from Downtown Traverse City Bay. It is known for it's natural beauty, million-dollar sunsets, historic Gaslight Shopping District, and of course, Petoskey Stone hunting.

Day Trip to Petoskey

Explore the Grand Hotel including the gardens. Bike around the island. Hike Arch Rock. Eat Fudge.

Day trip to Mackinac Island

Things to Do

We know that sometimes the list of things to do can be overwhelming so we make an example itinerary that could make the most use of your time in the Northern Michigan area!

Day 1 - Empire

Packing is key. Today you'll need a hiking outfit and an outfit for the beach. Bring water, snacks, towels, beach chairs and sunscreen! Start off your day by grabbing something to eat. Check out our list of breakfast options in the Dining tab. 1st stop is Empire Bluffs Hiking Trail.Up for a challenge? Continue the Empire Bluff hike across the side of the dune to reach The Tree Farm Trail. 2nd stop is Empire Beach.Park right next to the beach and enjoy breathtaking views of the sand cliffs. This is Lauren's favorite place to paddle board and kayak due to the landscape. You can call Sleeping Bear Surf &amp; Kayak to rent paddle boards too! If you come here later in the evening, prepare yourself for one of the best sunsets in Northern Michigan. Getting hungry? Head to Shipwreck cafe for a nice lunch. Crack a Cold OneHead over to Hop Lot Brew Garden to crack open a cold drink and enjoy one of the USA's top beer gardens!

Day 2 - Glen Arbor

Today you'll be biking and kayaking in Glen Arbor. Breakfast at The MillEnjoy breakfast and a warm coffee at historic The Mill. Bike to Sleeping Bear Dunes1st stop is The Cyclery Bike Shop in Glen Arbor to rent bikes. You'll be doing a 4 mile bike ride (fairly flat trail) from downtown Glen Arbor on the Heritage Trail which will eventually lead you into Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. On your way, you'll bike past a maritime museum and a lovely beach. Make sure you do at least part of the dune climb. And yes, this is the Sleeping Bear Dunes area and yes that means wildlife and potentially bears, deer, and other critters. We've only ever encountered deers but please bring bear spray. Kayak Crystal RiverReturn your bike to the Cyclery. Walk across the street to Crystal River outfitters. Time to rent some kayaks and paddle the peaceful and literally crystal clear waters. You can even see salmon swimming! DinnerTake a look at the Options in the Dining tab. We may recommend Faro in Northport or Farm Club in Traverse City (a farm to table experience).

Day 3 - Fishtown

Pick for our list of favorites for breakfast. Today is consider a lighter day in terms of activities. Hike Clay CliffsStart your day with a fairly easy hike to the Clay Cliffs. It's easy to miss this hidden trail and it's parking. Typically only locals are here. Explore Leland, aka Fishtown Head to Van's BeachThis is one of our favorite beach spots and it's walking distance from downtown Leeland. Some days you will find professional wind surfers here and it's quite the experience. Head back to Traverse City for shopping.Shopping Dinner &amp; Sunset in Traverse City Get dinner at one of the many Traverse City restaurants we have recommended. Finish by watching the sunset of Clinch Park Beach.

Day 4 - Wineries

You will have time between the ceremony and reception to explore the vineyards of Old Mission however there's always room for more vino....Time to head to Old Mission peninsula for a day full of wine, breathtaking views, and quaint beaches. Some people even bike the peninsula but please note it's a very long ride with some hills. BreakfastIt's a must to eat at their Old Mission Proper or Bubby's Bagels - whichever menu brings you the most joy. These are very close the vineyards. Old Mission VineyardsWe've listed the vineyards from start of the peninsula to end and we have [*] the vineyards that are our favorites. MARI VINEYARDS*BONOBO VINEYARDS*PENINSULA CELLARS (school house)CHATEAU GRAND TRAVERSEBRYS ESTATE*(make sure you go check out their garden too!)BOWERS HARBOR VINEYARDSTABONE VINEYARDSCHATEAU CHANTAL2 LADS WINERY Then stop atHarbor View Nursery &amp; Lavender Farm Lighthouse + BeachAt the end of the peninsula, you will see Old Mission Lighthouse and it's quaint beach. You could also save this spot for after dinner! Dinner &amp; SunsetConsider getting dinner at Jolly Pumpkin (casual) or The Boathouse (fancier dining) at the end of the peninsula. Finally head to Old Mission Light House - one of our favorite sunset spots. You can also watch the sunset over Bonobo Vineyard on a roadside pull off that sits atop the hill.

Day 5 - Torch Lake

BreakfastLake days call for a yummy breakfast. Check out Mundos in Traverse City (they have about 3+ locations across Traverse but our favorite one is at 305 State Street) or Alden Muffin Tin located by Torch Lake. Off to the LakeThey call it the Caribbean of the Midwest for a reason. Rent a boat or kayak and enjoy the warm water and sand bars of Torch Lake. We recommend renting from Luhrs Landing Boat Rentals then paddling into the south bay of Torch Lake. Bringing a cooler of food and drinks. Although the north bay of Torch Lake is where most of the mansions are, the South Bay is where the larger SandBar is and is the ore social part of the lake. DinnerAfter a long day at Torch Lake, enjoy a drink and food at Little Fleet Food Truck Park in downtown Traverse City. If they are too busy, head to Rare Bird Brewery for some delicious tacos or Charles &amp; Reid for Detroit- Style Pizza.

Day 6 - Day trip to Mackinac Island

Wake up early for this one. You'll need to head to the Mackinac Island Ferry Company in Mackinaw City. This is a 2 hour drive from Downtown Traverse. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance. We encourage bringing your bikes (or renting one upon arrival to the island). Bike the IslandNo cars are allowed on the island... so your means of transportation is a bike or a horse. The island is only 8.2 miles and is fairly flat. Biking will take you about an hour, but we suggest you stop and take in the sites of the Mackinac Bridge and enjoy the Native American Cultural History Trail information panels. Explore The Grand Hotel &amp; The Gardens Shop around the main downtown area. Dinner

Day 7 - Sutton's Bay + North Port

Suttons Bay &amp; North Port are year ‘round coastal villages with specialty shops, galleries, unique dining experiences, vineyards, historic inns, and family beaches. Dinner at Gilchrist Farm: Winery &amp; RestaurantOne of our "must eats" in Suttons Bay!

Week Itinerary

Traverse City is our home away from home in Columbus - so of course we have plenty of recommendations for dining.

Salt2Sugar (Traverse City)Bubby's Bagels (Traverse City)Waterbearer Coffee (Traverse City)Mundos (3 locations in Traverse City)Hexenbelle (Traverse City)Outpost (Traverse City)Common Good Bakery (Traverse City)Third Coast Bakery (Traverse City)Hive Coffee Co. (Sutton's Bay)9 Bean Rows (Farm to Table, North of Sutton's Bay)Mission Proper (Old Mission Peninsula)The Mill (Glen Arbor)Alden Muffin Tin (Torch Lake)

Breakfast

Barrio Tacos (Traverse City)Mama Lu's - A Modern Day Taco (Traverse City)The Filling Station Microbrewery (Pizza; Traverse City)The Little Fleet Food Truck Park (Traverse City)Folgarelli's Market &amp; Wine Shop (Deli; Traverse City)Loco Boys Brewing (Mexican; Traverse City)Shipwreck Cafe (Sandwiches; Empire)Bad Dog Deli (Old Mission Peninsula)Mission Proper (Old Mission Peninsula)

LUNCH

***can also eat at above lunch locationsModern Bird (Traverse City)Cook's House (Traverse City) - *our favorite(ask for the cheese plate, steak, walleye, and crème brûlée)Artisan Restaurant (Traverse City)Farm Club (Traverse City)The Burrow (Traverse City)Trattoria Stella (Italian, fancier, Traverse City)Charles &amp; Reid (Detroit Style Pizza, Traverse City)The Flying Noodle - Italian Pasta House (Traverse City)Faro (Neapolitan style pizza, Northport)Jolly Pumpkin (Old Mission Point)

DINNER

Moomer's Ice Cream (go to the actual farm location: 7263 N Long Lake Rd, Traverse City)Le Macaron French Pastries (Traverse City)Doug Murdick's Fudge (Traverse City)Petoskey Pretzel Co (Traverse City)Cherry Republic (multiple locations)Tiffanys Cafe (Empire)

DESSERT

Old Mission Distilling (Old Mission Penninsula)Traverse City Whiskey Co.Low Bar (Traverse City)123 Speakeasy (Traverse City)Little Fleet (Traverse City) Dancing:SideTraxx Dance Bar (LGBTQ+-friendly, Traverse City)Encore 201 (Traverse City)

DRINKS & COCKTAILS

Dining

We hope you grow to love the vineyards on Old Mission as much as we do. These vineyards are listed from the start of the peninsula to the end. MARI VINEYARDS*BONOBO VINEYARDS*PENINSULA CELLARS (school house)CHATEAU GRAND TRAVERSEBRYS ESTATE*BOWERS HARBOR VINEYARDSTABONE VINEYARDSCHATEAU CHANTAL2 LADS WINERY Then stop atHarbor View Nursery &amp; Lavender Farm Finally head to Old Mission Light House at the end of the peninsula - one of our favorite sunset spots. *our favorite vineyards

Old Mission

Sutton's Bay, on the west side of Traverse City, also has stunning vineyards.

Sutton's Bay

Vineyards

Rehearsal Dinner

Invite only. We are encouraging a chic costal and vineyard inspired look. Mid-length and long dresses. Breathable summer suits (often linen) with option linen and cotton button ups. No jeans, no golf shirts. Please bring comfortable shoes to sip and run through the vineyards.

WEDDING DAY

Formal &amp;/or Black-Tie Optional AttireDress to impress! We hope to see you in your summer's finest suits and gowns. Floor length and ankle length gowns encouraged. Black, Navy or formal linen suits. ﻿We are encouraging (but not requiring) a palette reminiscent of summer in Northern Michigan: blues, lavender, blush, sage, and yellow. No jeans. No golf shirts.

Luka & Lauren

Luka & Lauren

L&L

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour + Reception