Palio - Grand Rapids

Rehearsal Dinner

Mines Golf Club

Mary & Carter Wedding

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

Dinner & Reception

Our Wedding

Mary and Carter’s paths first crossed long before they officially met. For two years, they shared the same hallways at Rockford High School, attended the same football games, and even encountered one another at the soccer field, where Carter could often be found cheering on his friends. Despite these countless near-meetings, it wasn’t until 2018, at a tailgate party at Grand Valley State University, that they truly met for the first time. After some gentle persuasion, Mary agreed to skip the freshman cafeteria and joined Carter for a meal at Panera Bread. From that moment on, their journey together began, and the rest is history. Throughout their college years, Mary and Carter enjoyed spending time together at football games, playing intramural sports, and socializing with friends. Summers were often spent relaxing by the pool, basking in the sun, or hiking—especially during the pandemic. Today, Mary and Carter live together in a cozy apartment in downtown Grand Rapids with their cat, Pebbles. They love exploring the city’s vibrant dining scene, with two of their favorite spots being Linear and Gin Gins. When they aren’t out and about, they enjoy relaxing evenings in, watching Stranger Things and other Netflix shows. Recently, Mary and Carter have joined a new church together, as their faith has become a central part of their lives. They are eager to strengthen their relationship with the Lord, placing their trust in His guidance as they approach the commitment of marriage and their shared future together. After more than six years together, Mary and Carter are excited to continue building their life side by side and look forward to the many adventures and joys the future holds.

Our Story

Photos

Bride's Party

Amanda Lawrence

Laken Rode      

Andrea Paliani-Harpst

Keeli Kornak-Kotarba

Makinni Kornak-Kotarba

Lily Pavano

Grace Coyle

Groom's Party

Cameron Ross

Ryan Harpst

Beau Port

Marco Pavano

Nick Miller

Jake Vickery

Bryce Davis

Wedding Party

What should I wear? 

We are requesting semi-formal attire for our celebration

Feel free to dress in cocktail or evening wear suitable for an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. We look forward to sharing this special day with you and enjoying a wonderful evening together.

Are my children allowed to attend?

To allow our guests to relax and enjoy the evening, we kindly request no children at our wedding

What time should I arrive?

The ceremony will begin promptly at 4:30pm EST. Please plan to allow time for parking prior to arrival and be in your seats by 4:20.

Is parking available on-site?

Yes, parking will be available at the venue.

Is this an outdoor wedding?

The ceremony will take place outdoor, with an indoor/outdoor cocktail hour, and indoor reception

What are the timing of events?

Ceremony: 4:30pm EST 

Cocktail hour: 5:00-6:30pm

Reception: 6:30pm

Q + A

A block of rooms is available at The Embassy Suites by Hilton under "Harpst-Ross Wedding" or at the link here:

<a href="https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/harpstrossweddingblock/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/harpstrossweddingblock/</a>

In Grand Rapids (Belknap Lookout)Make yourself at home in one of the 250 air-conditioned rooms featuring kitchenettes. LCD televisions with cable programming provide entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Conveniences include phones, as well as laptop-compatible safes and desks.With a stay at Embassy Suites by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown,MI in Grand Rapid

Embassy Suites by Hilton Grand Rapids DowntownMI

Other Accommodation Options

Near Van Andel ArenaMake yourself at home in one of the 160 guestrooms featuring refrigerators and flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected. Bathrooms have bathtubs or showers and hair dryers. Conveniences include safes and desks, and housekeeping is provided daily.With a stay at Hyatt Place Grand Rapids Downtown in Grand Rapids (Downtown G

Hyatt Place Grand Rapids Downtown

Near Van Andel ArenaMake yourself at home in one of the 333 guestrooms featuring minibars and Smart televisions. Cable television is provided for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers feature deep soaking bathtubs and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks.With a stay at JW Marriott Hotel Grand Rapids, you'll be centrally located in 

JW Marriott Hotel Grand Rapids

Near Van Andel ArenaStay in one of 656 guestrooms featuring plasma televisions. Your pillowtop bed comes with premium bedding. Complimentary wired and wireless internet access keeps you connected, and premium TV channels provides entertainment. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers.With a stay at Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilto

Amway Grand Plaza Curio Collection by Hilton

Near Van Andel ArenaMake yourself at home in one of the 110 air-conditioned rooms featuring kitchens with full-sized refrigerators/freezers and stovetops. Wired and wireless internet access is complimentary, while 39-inch flat-screen televisions with satellite programming provide entertainment. Conveniences include safes and desks, as well as phones with free local calls.With a stay at Homewood Su