Camp Gilmer Opens!

Camp Activities Open

The Pavillion

Welcome Dinner

Round Dance

The Dining Hall

Wedding Day Brunch

The Quiet Place

Ceremony & Celebrations

Departure Brunch

To our Friends and Family, We are so excited to invite you to witness &amp; celebrate our marriage. We love eachother and this place so much; it is our actual DREAM to gather and share all of that love with you. Whether you want to come enjoy all of the camp events throughout the weekend or plan to join for the Ceremony &amp; Celebrations only, we welcome all levels of participation during the weekend. ﻿We look forward to a weekend of joy and togetherness. Love, Matt &amp; Mary

Our Wedding

Our Story

Camp Gilmer Weekend Itinerary

All Events are Optional and Hosted at Camp

Friday October 11th

Friday 1:00 PM: Camp Gilmer Opens! You are welcome to arrive to camp any time after 1:00 pm on Friday. When you arrive, please park in the big dirt parking lot and follow signs to the check-in table to be greeted &amp; get your cabin assignments, map, and other information. You are welcome to park in the lot all weekend. Friday 2:30 - 5:30 PM: Camp Activities. Play with us! Enjoy some classic camp activities like Archery, Canoeing, Zip Lining, and more! Friday 6:00 - 8:00 PM: Welcome Dinner. Join us for food and friendship at The Pavillion. Friday 8:00 - 9:00 PM: Round Dance. Join us for a mixer on the Tennis Courts, camp style! Mix &amp; mingle with Camp Gilmer guests while we learn and dance to 2 simple round dances!

Saturday October 12th

Saturday 9:00 - 11:00 AM: Wedding Day Brunch. Enjoy a delicious brunch in the Dining Hall before the big day! Saturday 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Camp Activities. Have some fun and enjoy the beauty of camp before it's time to get ready. Saturday 3:30 PM: Ceremony &amp; Celebreations. Our wedding ceremony will be hosted in The Quiet Place and will begin promptly at 3:30pm. We ask that all guests arrive to camp by 3:00pm. We will move to The Meadow for Dinner &amp; Reception. A casual afterparty at the Bonfire Ring will close out the night.&nbsp;

Sunday October 13th

Sunday 9:00 - 11:00 AM: Departure Brunch. Enjoy one final meal in the Dining Hall before departure. Sunday 12:00 PM: Depart Camp Gilmer. We kindly ask that all guests depart camp by 12:00 pm. We thank you for joining us!

Weekend Itinerary

Click below to download a map of Camp Gilmer! <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ftoUYViiaVOLGdFC9VYWEu76RV6bs6hE/view?usp=sharing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">MAP PDF</a>

Map of Camp Gilmer

Nearby Airports

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, located in Phoenix, is a 2 hour drive from camp. From here, you can rent a car or take the <a href="https://groometransportation.com/prescott/?&amp;sd_client_id=d0fa0143-d308-40e4-a968-a3ad3ea63c47" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Groome Transportation Shuttle</a> into Prescott. Prescott Regional Airport is a small airport 30 minutes from camp. Connections are needed out of either Los Angelas or Denver.

Driving Directions from Phoenix To Prescott

The drive from Phoenix to Prescott is beautiful, showcasing the desert mountains &amp; saguaro cacti before climbing in elevation to Arizona's Central Highlands and the Prescott National Forest. Take the I-17 North toward Flagstaff for approximately 60 miles. Then, take Exit 262 toward AZ-69 North/Prescott. Continue on AZ-69 North for about 40 miles. Continue onto East Gurley Street to enter Downtown Prescott.

Driving Directions from Prescott to Camp

Turn onto Mt. Vernon to take Senator Highway from town up into the mountains for approximately 6 miles. Turn right onto Friendly Pines Road and continue until you come upon the Friendly Pines Camp entrance (this is slightly different than what your GPS will tell you. Follow these listed directions to take the easiest, most paved road into camp).

Travel to Prescott

Where to Stay

Do you want to put the "camp" in "Camp Gilmer"? Stay at camp with us! You can "book" this option on the RSVP. Pros: Stay right on property - no driving required! Cabins are heated &amp; insulated, and each has it's own private toilet, sink, and shower with running hot water. There is electricity for lights and outlets to plug in your electronics. Bring your own bed linens or borrow some of ours. You and your family will get your own cabin. Friend groups may request to bunk up together! Biggest plus of them all, it's a FREE lodging option! Cons: Bunk beds with camp mattresses, need we say more? To be transparent, this might not be the best night of sleep you ever get and you are certainly giving up the normal creature comforts. BUT, we think it would be a fun experience for those who are able to do so comfortably.

Stay at Camp

Do you want to be in the forest but not quite camping? A nearby AirBnB or VRBO cabin rental might be a good option! Camp is located in a neighborhood of Prescott called "Groom Creek". Refine your search by using that location or <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/wishlists/v/1468457707?s=67&amp;unique_share_id=c5f53368-4fef-47bd-9b11-81982626a8b0" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">click here to see AirBNB cabins picked by Mary &amp; Matt.</a>

AirBnB & VRBO

Stay where Matt and his Dad stayed during their first trip to Prescott at this fun, hip, &amp; funky boutique motel in Downtown Prescott. We have a room block at this hotel. Call and let them know you are with the "Gilmer Wedding" or <a href="https://resnexus.com/resnexus/reservations/group/AAC7D078-7778-408F-B4C0-F365F71AF328?GID=421ed75b-56ae-4ed3-b683-d04421ed17e7" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">click here to book online. </a>Rooms for this block must be booked by August 10th, 2024.

The Motor Lodge

Stay at the historic Hassayampa Inn, a beautifully restored 1927 boutique hotel in the heart of historic downtown Prescott. We do not have a room block at this hotel so book early. If you're looking for historic Prescott, the Hassayampa Inn is it.

Hassayampa Inn

Stay at the newly built Hilton Garden Inn, just 1 block from the historic downtown square and a 15-20 minute drive to camp. We do not have a room block at this hotel, so book early. To minimize street noise, ask for a room on the "Park Side" of the hotel. If you're looking for the most modern amenities, this is your best option.

Hilton Garden Inn Prescott Downtown

Lodging

If you have a few hours in Prescott ...

Shop & Dine in the Historic Downtown Prescott Square

Between the awesome antique shopping on Cortez Street, walking around the Courthouse Square, or visiting the iconic Whiskey Row bars, there is plenty of ways to spend a spare few hours. If you want casual eats and drinks, head over to The Raven or the County Seat. If you want to enjoy a historic Whiskey Row bar, we reccomend Matt's Saloon, The Palace, or Jersey Lilys. If you are looking for a cup of coffee, we reccomend The Wild Iris Coffeehouse or The Century Lounge.

Enjoy the Views at Watson Lake

Enjoy the incredible views of Watson Lake &amp; the Granite Dells. There are maked trails and access to the water if you would like to explore around. There are also easy, drive-up vista locations in Watson Lake park. Route to "Watson Lake Park" to get to easy access points.

If you have a few hours in Phoenix...

Visit the Musical Instrument Museum

Visit the 'MIM" - The collection of over 15,000 musical instruments and associated objects includes examples from nearly 200 countries and territories, representing every inhabited continent. <a href="https://mim.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://mim.org/</a>

Walk the Desert Botanical Gardens

Discover the tranquil vibrancy of desert plants nestled amid the red rocks of the Papago Buttes. Visitors can stroll through five thematic trails to explore the fascinating beauty of the Sonoran Desert, from towering cacti and alluring succulents to brilliant wildflowers and lush trees. <a href="https://dbg.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://dbg.org/</a>

Explore Downtown Phoenix

If you need to stay close to the airport, we reccomend visiting the "Roosevelt Row Arts District" in Downtown Phoenix to see awesome street murals, shops, dining, and bars. Our favorite spots for food and drink are Arizona Wilderness Brewing Company, Palma, and Pedal Haus. Our favorite coffee shops are Fair Trade Cafe, Songbird, or Kahvi Coffee.

If you have 1 extra day in Arizona...

Itinerary Reccomendation: See the iconic Sedona Red Rocks. Sedona is located about 1 hour and 40 minutes from Prescott. You can take the 'scenic route' through Jerome - A historic mining town buit into the side of a mountain. Known as "The Wickedest Town in the West" during it's heydey. It now sports wineries, art galleries, mine history, and possibly ghosts? If you want to bypass the windy, scenic route through Jerome, you can take the Interstate 17 &amp; Hwy 179 into Sedona. Our reccomendations are listed below. DRIVE: The Redrock Scenic Byway is along Highway 179 that runs from the Village of Oak Creek to Sedona. This scenic highway provides views of Cathedral Rock, Chapel of the Holy Cross, and other natural wonders through Sedona and the surrounding area. If you only have a few hours to take in&nbsp;Sedona views&nbsp;and want to see everything, the Red Rock Scenic Byway is the way to go. HIKE: <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/arizona/west-fork-trail" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">West Fork of Oak Creek Trail</a> This is an out-and-back hike through a section of Oak Creek Canyon. Walk through the tall, red canyon walls and enjoy the sparse resource of water in the desert. Depending on recent rain activity, small water crossings may be required. HIKE: <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=55264" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cathedral Rock</a> is a short &amp; steep hike to one of Sedona's most iconic rock formations. You don't have to hike far to get amazing views! Main Street in Sedona has plenty of gift shops &amp; dining, not to mention amazing views of the red rocks!

If you have several extra days in Arizona ...

Visit Grand Canyon National Park (Northern AZ)

After exploring for a day in beautiful Sedona, stay the night in nearby Flagstaff. Wake up and head to Grand Canyon National Park, 1 hour and 20 minutes north of Flagstaff. There are many hikes in the park that can take you down into the canyon, or you can walk the South Rim vistapoints of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Tour Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend (Northern AZ)

Take a guided tour of <a href="https://www.antelopecanyon.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Antelope Canyon</a>, a stunning slot canyon carved by water in the middle of the desert. Make a stop at nearby <a href="https://www.nps.gov/glca/planyourvisit/horseshoe-bend.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Horseshoe Bend</a> lookout for incredibe views of the Colorado River.

Saguaro National Park & Organ Pipe National Monument (Southern AZ)

Head to the Southern Arizona city of Tuscon for quintecestial desert terrain and beauty. Tuscon is a large city with plenty of good eats, drinks, art, and beautiful accomodations. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/sagu/index.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Saguaro National Park </a>is located on either side of the city, where you can see the protected, universal symbol of the American West, the Giant Saguaro. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/orpi/index.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Organ Pipe National Monument </a>offers another opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Sonoran desert.

AZ Things to Do

Q & A

Kevin is a longstanding figure of Friendly Pines Camp where he served as the Camp Director for 35 years. Mary & Matt have known Kevin in various capacities - for Mary, starting when she was just a 7 year old camper and for both Mary & Matt as young adults working at camp. Kevin has offered wisdom, advice, and friendship to both Mary & Matt over the years.

Kevin Nissen

Olivia is Mary Katherine's younger sister. With only 15 months between them, Liv & MK were eachothers first friends in life - and MK & Matt look forward to a lifetime of that friendship ahead. Olivia currently lives in San Francisco with her partner, Michael. Michael has been a part of Kem family gatherings throughout the years. 

Olivia Kem & Michael Zimmermann

Ellery grew up just a few houses down from the Kem girls and has always felt like a third sister to them both. Ellery & Mary Katherine were often found biking around their neighborhood, running their babysitting business, and spending countless hours in the neighborhood pool. Ellery and her husband Mike, who were married in October 2023, are preparing for the birth of their first daughter in July 2024.  Ellery & Mike reside in Phoenix, AZ.

Ellery Tiedje

David is the older brother of Matt. David & Stacy have been married since 2014 and together they have two kids, Margot (4) & Jonah (7). Mary & Matt have watched and admired how they have navigated marriage and parenthood, and they look forward to joining them in this new stage of life. They all reside in Chicago, IL - where the Gilmer brothers grew up.

David & Stacy Gilmer

Jonathan is the younger brother of Matt. Jenna & Jonathan were just recently married in a beautiful ceremony in San Diego on April 13th, 2024. Mary & Matt were so happy to be a part of thier wedding and are so happy to ask them to return the honor. Jenna & Jonathan (and their pup, Stanley) reside in San Diego, CA. 

Jonathan & Jenna Gilmer

Jonah & Margot are Matt's niece & nephew who will be filling the roles of Ring Bearer and Flower Girl in a Gilmer Family for the second time this year! Jonah & Margot are the children of David & Stacy Gilmer. Jonah attends 2nd grade and Margot in Kindergarden back in their hometown of Chicago!

Jonah & Margot Gilmer

Tyler is the oldest brother of Mary Katherine. Mary & Matt are so happy to share their wedding year with Tyler & Shannyn, who are tying the knot themselves in September 2024! Tyler & Shannyn (and their beloved dog, Oakley) reside in Camarillo, CA.

Tyler Kem & Shannyn Hultin

Dillon is the older brother of Mary Katherine. Mary Katherine has always admired her older brothers and valued the role they play in her life. Matt & Mary are excited for all of the new siblings they are both gaining through this marriage. Dillon currently resides in Phoenix, AZ.

Dillon Kem

Mary Kate is a childhood friend of Mary Katherine. They met attending St. Francis Xavier Catholic School and were classmates from K-8th grade. For many years they were inseperable; doing theater, girl scouts, and sports together and often being referred to as "MK Squared". MK loves her other MK dearly. Mary Kate and her husband, Josh, who were married in 2021, reside in Phoenix, AZ.

Mary Kate Cutlip

Paige is one of Mary Katherine's beloved cousins. They have grown up not only as family, but as very close friends, and have been present for all of eachothers 'big' moments in life thusfar. Mary & Matt are so happy to share this big moment, and many of the big moments to come, with Paige. Paige and her partner, Shane, reside in Los Angelas, CA. 

Paige Welsh

Hope is another beloved cousin of Mary Katherine. Between summers at Newport Beach and surprise Christmas morning visits, Hope has been a steady & joyful presence in MK's life. Mary & Matt are grateful that she is family to them both. Hope currently resides in Hawaii with her sweet dog, Hallie. 

Hope Welsh

Jenna is a close friend of Mary Katherine. They met when they both attended Belmont University in Nashville, TN and were active members of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority together. Mary is so grateful that her and Jenna have made the effort to remain close since college, and Mary & Matt hope to build upon that foundation of friendship with her. Jenna resides in Nashville, TN with her partner, Declan.

Jenna Drury

Megan & Mathieu are close friends and CampWay co-workers to Matt & Mary. Megan & Mary work hand-in-hand every day, even sharing an office, and have grown to be good friends during their time in Prescott together. Mathieu & Megan are frequent dinner guests, adventure buddies, and ski-trip partners with Matt & Mary.

Megan Kuhn & Mathieu Mongrain

Jonathan is close friend and CampWay co-worker to Matt & Mary. Jonathan & Matt originally founded CampWay together back in 2020 and they continue to build & grow their business together. Jonathan is married to his wife, Sayaka, and together their have a daughter, Emma. 

Jonathan Pierson

Sarah and Andrew are Matt's long-time friends in Prescott, and together they've had many adventures to Arizona's wild places. Mary and Matt often enjoy nights and Sarah and Andrew's house playing Settlers of Catan and having good conversations by the campfire. Sarah and Andrew have welcomed two daughters in recent years, Sylvia, who's 2, and Chessa, who was born in January.

Sarah Vincent & Andrew Zapushek

Matt and Carlos each grew up attending Camp Highlands and worked as counselors together in 2014 and 2015. While on staff, Matt and Carlos spent many hours on Plum Lake teaching campers how to water ski. Carlos has been a close friend to Matt throughout the years and currently resides in his home country, Costa Rica, with his partner Juan.

Carlos Kuesel

Serving perhaps the most important role of the day is Max, the Best Dog. While Max is not familiar with the concept of marriage, he is happy to see his parents in love. Max is thrilled to have all of his friends and family gathered here at camp, where he works as the offical CampWay Camp Dog. 

Wedding Party

Photos of Camp

The Cabins

Around Camp

Activities

Engagement Photos

Photos

Registry

Please click the URL below to fill out a waiver!

Thank you very much! <a href="https://www.waiverfile.com/b/CampWay/Waiver.aspx?id=c6100dd5-2c0a-4482-a8d7-31975574b8b9&amp;direct=true" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.waiverfile.com/b/CampWay/Waiver.aspx?id=c6100dd5-2c0a-4482-a8d7-31975574b8b9&amp;direct=true</a>

Mary Katherine & Matthew

Mary Katherine & Matthew

M&M

Camp Gilmer Opens!

Camp Activities Open

Welcome Dinner

Round Dance

Wedding Day Brunch

Camp Activities Open

Ceremony & Celebrations

Departure Brunch