Barrel & Vine

Bridal Shower

The Morris Estate

Rehearsal

Dress Rehearsal

Gallery 1245

Dinner

Karaoke

Ceremony 

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

Reception

Afties

Fall

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Our Wedding

It&nbsp;all&nbsp;techincally started&nbsp;at&nbsp;St.&nbsp;Ambrose&nbsp;University,&nbsp;though&nbsp;at&nbsp;the&nbsp;time,&nbsp;we&nbsp;were&nbsp;just&nbsp;two&nbsp;college&nbsp;kids&nbsp;crossing&nbsp;paths.&nbsp;It&nbsp;wasn’t&nbsp;until&nbsp;years&nbsp;later,&nbsp;at&nbsp;a&nbsp;mutual&nbsp;friend’s&nbsp;birthday&nbsp;party&nbsp;in&nbsp;Miami&nbsp;(thanks,&nbsp;Cole),&nbsp;that&nbsp;fate&nbsp;finally&nbsp;decided&nbsp;to&nbsp;do&nbsp;its&nbsp;thing.&nbsp;From&nbsp;the&nbsp;moment&nbsp;we&nbsp;reconnected,&nbsp;everything&nbsp;just&nbsp;clicked.&nbsp;Ben&nbsp;was&nbsp;still&nbsp;the&nbsp;same&nbsp;funny,&nbsp;sweet&nbsp;guy&nbsp;I&nbsp;remembered,&nbsp;but&nbsp;there&nbsp;was&nbsp;something&nbsp;undeniably&nbsp;different&nbsp;this&nbsp;time&nbsp;around.&nbsp;Two&nbsp;weeks&nbsp;later,&nbsp;on&nbsp;a&nbsp;trip&nbsp;to&nbsp;Davenport,&nbsp;our&nbsp;friend&nbsp;Ashley&nbsp;(now&nbsp;a&nbsp;bridesmaid-shoutout)&nbsp;decided&nbsp;that we&nbsp;were&nbsp;officially&nbsp;meant to be. We didn't argue, just went with the flow. Our&nbsp;relationship&nbsp;began&nbsp;as&nbsp;semi-long-distance,&nbsp;but&nbsp;by&nbsp;November&nbsp;2021, I had convinced Ben&nbsp;to move&nbsp;into&nbsp;my&nbsp;Chicago&nbsp;apartment,&nbsp;and&nbsp;from there the&nbsp;city&nbsp;became&nbsp;the perfect place for us to kickstart for&nbsp;our&nbsp;life&nbsp;together.&nbsp;We&nbsp;spent&nbsp;those years exploring so many&nbsp;concerts,&nbsp;comedy&nbsp;shows,&nbsp;restaurants,&nbsp;and&nbsp;arcades,truly&nbsp;making&nbsp;the&nbsp;most&nbsp;of&nbsp;every&nbsp;moment.&nbsp;In&nbsp;January&nbsp;2023,&nbsp;we&nbsp;added&nbsp;Murphy,&nbsp;our&nbsp;Bernese&nbsp;mountain&nbsp;dog,&nbsp;to&nbsp;the&nbsp;mix.&nbsp;He&nbsp;quickly&nbsp;became&nbsp;the&nbsp;star&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;show&nbsp;and&nbsp;the&nbsp;source&nbsp;of&nbsp;endless&nbsp;drama(and&nbsp;fur)&nbsp;in&nbsp;our&nbsp;lives.&nbsp;Shortly&nbsp;after,&nbsp;we&nbsp;found&nbsp;our&nbsp;dream&nbsp;home&nbsp;in&nbsp;Tinley&nbsp;Park,&nbsp;which&nbsp;we&nbsp;knew&nbsp;the second we laid eyes on it that it was&nbsp;the&nbsp;perfect&nbsp;place&nbsp;to&nbsp;build a life together. That&nbsp;spring,&nbsp;I&nbsp;graduated&nbsp;from&nbsp;law&nbsp;school,&nbsp;passed&nbsp;the&nbsp;bar,&nbsp;and&nbsp;officially&nbsp;became&nbsp;an&nbsp;attorney—a&nbsp;milestone&nbsp;I&nbsp;couldn’t&nbsp;have&nbsp;achieved&nbsp;without&nbsp;Ben’s&nbsp;endless&nbsp;encouragement&nbsp;(and&nbsp;ability&nbsp;to&nbsp;supply&nbsp;snacks&nbsp;during&nbsp;late-night&nbsp;study&nbsp;sessions).&nbsp;Meanwhile,&nbsp;Ben&nbsp;was&nbsp;busy&nbsp;crushing&nbsp;his&nbsp;own&nbsp;career&nbsp;goals,&nbsp;earning&nbsp;certifications&nbsp;and&nbsp;moving&nbsp;up&nbsp;in&nbsp;his&nbsp;career,&nbsp;showing&nbsp;the&nbsp;same&nbsp;drive&nbsp;and&nbsp;dedication&nbsp;I&nbsp;fell&nbsp;in&nbsp;love&nbsp;with.&nbsp;Together,&nbsp;we&nbsp;celebrated&nbsp;every&nbsp;win&nbsp;as&nbsp;a&nbsp;team&nbsp;&amp;&nbsp;usually&nbsp;with&nbsp;a&nbsp;glass&nbsp;of&nbsp;champagne&nbsp;on&nbsp;deck. IYKYK. Then,&nbsp;on&nbsp;June&nbsp;29,&nbsp;2024,&nbsp;Ben&nbsp;planned&nbsp;the&nbsp;most&nbsp;beautiful&nbsp;birthday&nbsp;weekend&nbsp;for&nbsp;me&nbsp;in&nbsp;Michigan.&nbsp;He&nbsp;pulled&nbsp;out&nbsp;all&nbsp;the&nbsp;stops—a&nbsp;cute Airbnb,&nbsp;beaches,&nbsp;hiking,&nbsp;shopping,&nbsp;delicious&nbsp;food,&nbsp;and&nbsp;finally,&nbsp;Round&nbsp;Barn&nbsp;Winery.&nbsp;On&nbsp;a&nbsp;beautiful hilltop,&nbsp;he&nbsp;got&nbsp;down&nbsp;on&nbsp;one&nbsp;knee&nbsp;with&nbsp;a&nbsp;sneaky&nbsp;photographer&nbsp;capturing&nbsp;it&nbsp;all.&nbsp;That&nbsp;day,&nbsp;we&nbsp;marked&nbsp;the&nbsp;beginning&nbsp;of&nbsp;our&nbsp;next&nbsp;chapter&nbsp;of&nbsp;love,&nbsp;laughter,&nbsp;and&nbsp;endless&nbsp;possibilities&nbsp;for&nbsp;our&nbsp;future&nbsp;together.&nbsp; I'm so blessed to have found the love of my life in a man like Ben. I will follow him anywhere, and I cannot wait to finally meet him at the altar on October 18, 2025. -M

Meant to Bee

Our Story

WE WANT YOU!

TO SEND IN YOUR PHOTOS <a href="https://tmg.link/6rnW7/welcome" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a> SO WE CAN KEEP RELIVING THE WEDDING DAY MAGIC

Silver Lake Dunes, Michigan

Engagement Shoot

Photos

Meet the VIPs

Austin Williams

Jessica Marevka

Cole Connell

Kasey Taves

Kodi Platt

Chloe Mihalovits

Zach Kaczmarzyk

Ashley Bucz

Jonathan Van Ordstrand

Eva Van Ordstrand

Jenny Walsh

Wedding Party

ASK MURPHY

<a href="https://tmg.link/6rnW7/welcome" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">WEDDING TEXT THREAD</a>

<a href="https://www.honeyfund.com/site/van-ordstrand-gardner-10-18-2025" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HONEYFUND LINK</a>

Q + A

A Message to Our Guests: 

Congratulations—you've officially committed to attending the social event of the year. We’re thrilled to have you, and we promise to make it worth your while with great food, strong drinks, and questionable dance moves. Now, let’s talk logistics. For those traveling in, there are several hotels within a 15-20 mile radius of the venue. However, please note that a Notre Dame football game is scheduled that weekend, which has significantly increased hotel rates and availability in the area. For that same reason, room blocks are not available. To ensure the best accommodations, we highly recommend booking as soon as possible. If local hotel prices are higher than expected, consider looking in the St. Joseph, Michigan, or Elkhart, Indiana, areas, which may have more reasonable rates. Additionally, Airbnb or Vrbo rentals could be a great option, especially for groups or families traveling together. Wherever you stay, just make sure you show up ready to party—we can’t wait to celebrate with you!! 💕

Make yourself at home in one of the 3 air-conditioned rooms featuring Smart televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and digital programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include coffee/tea makers and complimentary bottled water, and housekeeping is provided on request.

Make yourself at home in one of the 51 guestrooms. Complimentary wired and wireless internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming provides entertainment. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include desks and complimentary weekday newspapers, as well as phones with free local calls.

Quality Inn & Suites Niles

Near the airportMake yourself at home in one of the 70 air-conditioned rooms featuring flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms have shower/tub combinations and hair dryers. Conveniences include desks and coffee/tea makers, as well as phones with free local calls.When you stay at Ho

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Niles an IHG Hotel

Located in Niles, 9.3 miles from Notre Dame Stadium, Hampton Inn Niles, Mi has accommodations with a fitness center, free private parking and a shared lounge. The property is around 8.5 miles from University of Notre Dame, 12 miles from Bethel College and 24 miles from Midwest Museum of American Art. The hotel provides an indoor pool and a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi. At the hotel the rooms have a desk and a flat-screen TV. The area is popular for fishing and canoeing, and car rental is available at this 3-star hotel. Swiss Valley Ski and Snowboard Area is 28 miles from Hampton Inn Niles, Mi, while Basilica of the Sacred Heart is 7.9 miles from the property. South Bend Regional Airport is 9.3 miles away.

Hampton Inn Niles

Travel

Welcome to Wedding Weekend!

We’re so excited that you’re coming to celebrate with us - especially those of you traveling from afar. Since you’ll be in our favorite little corner of Michigan for the weekend, we figured we’d share some of our go-to spots to eat, drink, relax, and people-watch. These are the places Ben and I actually love, not just the ones that looked cute on Google. So if you find yourself with a free afternoon or just need to escape your Airbnb, here’s your cheat sheet. Enjoy responsibly... or don’t. What happens on wedding weekend stays with wedding weekend! As you enjoy the weekend exploring, don’t forget to share a photo with the <a href="https://tmg.link/6rnW7/welcome" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wedding Text Thread!</a> We’d love to see what you’re up to - your favorite finds, fun moments, and goofy selfies along the way! Keep an eye on the thread, too - there may be updates about where the bride and groom are or spontaneous events you can join in on. We can’t wait to see you Saturday! <a href="https://tmg.link/6rnW7/welcome" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">WEDDING TEXT THREAD </a>

Things To Do In Niles, Michigan

Iron Shoe is a craft distillery in downtown Niles that serves home-made spirits, cocktails, and local beers. They also have a full kitchen with a menu of elevated pub food, from burgers to sandwiches. The truffle fries and maple bourbon sprouts are a perfect starter to grab before heading over to the Underground Comedy Club! If you are looking for a sweet treat with a kick, try out Katie's Caramel Creme Buzz.

Iron Shoe Distillery

A basement comedy club that is both hilarious and chaotic in the best way. The shows are always a good time and the "Jason Lee & Kluck It Bucket" is a must. It’s small, loud, and unpolished... which is exactly what you want in a comedy club. Get there early if you want a decent seat, but truly there is no bad seat in the house! 

The Underground Laugh Lounge

This speakeasy-style bar feels like you stumbled into someone’s private library... with better cocktails. You have to try the signature "Dirty Bubble Bath" served in a mini claw foot tub!  It’s small, & cozy, but there are so many neat details to explore while you are there. This bar fills up fast, so definitely call ahead for a reservation! 

The Study

A charming, family-owned candy store that’s been around forever. Step inside for amazing hand-dipped chocolates and nostalgic candies. Grab a box of assorted treats - the truffles are a personal fav!

Veni's Sweet Shop

A cozy local spot with the perfect mix of caffeine and calm. Stop in for your morning latte or circle back in the afternoon for a glass of wine and a snack. The space is cute, laid-back, and just right for chatting with friends or nursing a hangover. The Honey Lavender Latte is Melissa's fav!

2nd & Main Coffeehouse

Lehman's Orchards is perfect for a taste of Michigan's agricultural heritage. Depending on the time of year, there is apple picking and homemade goods like cider, jams and pies. The also have a winery with local wines and hard ciders!

Lehman's Orchards

Things To Do In South Bend, Indiana

This is a fun spot in South Bend, Indiana with all of our favorite things: arcade games, cocktails and live music. Need I say more?? 
Bonus: it’s on the same block as the Cat Lady Café and Macri’s, so you can pet a cat, crush some cannoli, and then throw down at frogger—all without moving your car. 

The Garage Arcade Bar

This place is straight-up dessert heaven. Pastries, cookies, cannoli, cakes, they’ve got it all, and somehow it all still tastes like it's straight from your grandma's kitchen. We love it so much we’re using them for our wedding cake, so if you want a sneak peek of dessert, this is the spot!

Macri's Italian Bakery

Coffee & cats, name a better combo! Hang out with adoptable cats while sipping something warm and cozy. Appointments are required, so plan accordingly!

The Cat Lady Cafe South Bend

A really beautiful church on the notorious Notre Dame campus that’s open to the public. If you’re into architecture or just want to walk through somewhere peaceful, it’s worth checking out. There’s also a Friday and Sunday Mass open to visitors if you are looking for a place for worship away from your home church. 

Basilica of the Sacred Heart

This is Ben’s go-to breakfast spot in South Bend! He swears by the Burning Love Bloody Mary and the breakfast tacos. If you are looking for a cozy vibe, Melissa recommends the is the honey vanilla latte and warm soup. Overall the food’s solid and it’s a great way to kick off a weekend morning.

Peggs

If you’re feeling lucky, Four Winds is the move. Slots, table games, decent food, and enough flashing lights to keep you entertained for hours. Ben doesn't have to be the only one hitting the jackpot this weekend! Try your luck and see if you can head home with more than just a wedding favor!

Four Winds Casino South Bend

The wine trail has various wineries near Niles, allowing you to sample the best locally-made wines, take vineyard tours, and enjoy wine tastings. This allows you to enjoy the countryside while sampling some of the best wines Michigan has to offer. Don't forget to make a special trip to Round Barn Winery to check out the amazing winery where we got engaged!

Southwest Michigan Wine Trail

Things To Do In St. Joseph, Michigan

One of our favorite Lake Michigan beaches! Soft sand, beautiful sunsets, and plenty of space to lounge around. There’s a splash pad for kids, volleyball courts, and even a historic carousel nearby. It’s the perfect spot to relax after brunch or catch a romantic sunset. Pro tip: parking fills up on weekends, so go early!

Silver Beach County Park

This spot is every dessert lover’s dream. From truffles and giant cookies to frozen hot chocolate and espresso drinks, it’s the absolute best. It’s also open late, making it an ideal stop after dinner or a beach day. You cannot leave without trying the chocolate-dipped cheesecake! 

Chocolate Cafe

Cute little bistro that’s perfect for brunch or a cozy dinner. We had breakfast here the morning we got engaged and ended up getting a full show of Michigan drivers absolutely struggling to parallel park at the farmers market. RIP to that guy’s bumper - IYKYK. Great food, even better entertainment. 10/10

The Boulevard Inn & Bistro

Classic ice cream shack with tons of flavors. They are dog friendly, so they have Murphy's stamp of approval! They’ve got pup cups and picnic tables outside, which makes it a chill spot after the beach. Simple, cute, and always hits the spot on a hot day.

Cabanas Ice Cream & More

A Jack Nicklaus-designed course with beautiful fairways and challenging holes, this is a golfer’s paradise. It winds through dunes, wetlands, and wooded areas, offering great views and even better golf. The clubhouse has solid food and drinks too. Book a tee time early—this course fills up fast.

Harbor Shores Golf Club

Things to Do

Registry

Dress Code: Formal Black Attire

If you’re feeling lost on what to wear, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Our dress code is formal black attire, and I’ve pulled together some photos below to give you inspiration. Think of this as your little hub for outfit direction.

Ladies:

We&#8217;re asking for mid-length to floor-length gowns in black. Have fun with the details&#8212;slits, off-the-shoulder, dramatic sleeves, sleek and simple, or a little sparkle are all welcome! The only request is nothing above the knee.

Gentlemen:

A black suit is perfect. Pair it with a white shirt, or keep it sleek with black on black. If a full suit isn&#8217;t your style, a black dress shirt with black pants works too.

Footwear:

No rules here - choose what feels comfortable and stylish for you. Gold, silver, or black accessories all complement the look.
 
The goal is for everyone to look sharp, timeless, and cohesive, while still making the look their own.

Melissa & Benjamin

Melissa & Benjamin

M&B

Wedding Day

3:30 PM–5:00 PM

Ceremony

5:00 PM–6:00 PM

Cocktail Hour

6:00 PM–11:00 PM

Reception

11:30 PM–2:30 AM

Afties

Want to Join the Wedding Thread?