Alaska Haus

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

Mikayla was this close to deleting Hinge when James sent a simple “Hello, how’s your day going?” Good timing James because we haven’t really stopped talking since. We bonded instantly over Lord of the Rings (which sealed the deal for James), rainy walks, and a mutual love of art, nature, and music. Our first date turned into a full day adventure: wandering Frederik Meijer Gardens, with Mikayla enthusiastically rattling off facts about every sculpture like a tour guide. James says he spent the whole time basking in the beauty of the most breathtaking sight at the gardens, Mikayla. (He’s been soaking it in every day since.) They ordered tacos for dinner but were both hit with nerves at how messy they would be as soon as they arrived, but they never felt embarrassed. It was like they were dining with someone they had known all their lives. From there, things just... unfolded. On July 21st, Mikayla introduced James to gyros and Art Fairs in Ann Arbor and James asked Mikayla to be his girlfriend on a patch of grass under the July sun. That was the first “I do.” We had the long-distance phase, spent too many weekends counting down to the next visit, James weathered snow storms and late night drives to visit Mikayla. Eventually James moved to Grand Rapids and we created our first shared home, not long after, we adopted our dog Twig, who joined his older brother Louie the bunny. In 2024, we bought our first house, a cozy space we’ve filled with plants, art, music, and love. James had his heart, mind, body, and soul set on marrying Mikayla. In fact, he asked her nearly every day for years: “Do you want to get married?” James would ask. “Yes.” Mikayla would say through a grin. “To me?” he’d point to himself. “Who else?” she’d sing (not literally, but it was music to James’ ears). She said yes so many times that it became an ongoing bit, one we both loved. Mikayla knew the real request was coming, but not when. James had told her tales of the mythical dwarves he hired to carve through the Earth, searching for the precious materials that make up her ring. He’d bring her updates, stating they needed new equipment or that the foreman was on vacation. In reality, he was saving funds, planning, and scheming with Mikayla’s mother, Rebecca. Rebecca had loaned James a series of gems and rings that had been passed down to her through the family. In that pile of treasure, there was a ring belonging to Mikayla’s great-grandmother (remember that for later). In that time of planning, James had scheduled a meeting with the mythical dwarves. But James needed the help of Sam and Rachel (his and Mikayla’s best friends) to forge a gem of their own: a lie. Sam and Rachel had covered for James so he could attend the meeting where he designed the ring: a green tourmaline stone surrounded by Mikayla’s grandmother’s diamonds. Then, on a birthday trip in April 2025, standing at the top of a hill overlooking a river bend, Mikayla was busy describing their imaginary dream home next to the river when James was fumbling trying to get out the small wooden box from his pocket. “Is this the best view on the hike?”, he asked. She said yes. “Do you want to get married?” Another yes, still looking out at the river, unsuspecting. “To me?” She whirled around, hearing his shift in tone. Cue her surprised shout: “Are you joking?!” Reader, she said “I do” (again). And now we can’t wait to say “I do” once more, this time with all of you there to witness it.

Mikayla + James

Our Story

Photos

Rachel Smith

Liam Huth

Alaina Riedel

Bobby Huth

Courtney Pedersen

Colt Peña

Samuel Szwabowski

Wedding Party

Q + A

Looking for a place to stay?

This hotel was recommended by our venue as it will provide a shuttle to and from the venue upon request. Note: This hotel was recommended to us, but we haven’t personally stayed there and can’t speak to the experience firsthand.

Holiday Inn Grand Rapids - Airport by IHG

Ada Hotel

TownePlace Suites Grand Rapids Airport Southeast

Staybridge Suites Grand Rapids - Airport by IHG

Lodging

﻿While you're in town, here are a few of James and I's favorite things to do and places to visit!

Immerse yourself in one of the world’s finest horticultural display gardens and sculpture parks in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This was also where we had our first date!

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

The Grand Rapids Art Museum is an art museum located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States, with collections ranging from Renaissance to Modern Art and special collections on 19th and 20th-century European and American art.

Grand Rapids Art Museum

One of the nation's largest urban historic districts is located adjacent to downtown Grand Rapids. Its 1,300 homes date back to 1843 and represent more than 60 architectural styles.

Heritage Hill Historic District

Year-round destination for farmers' markets selling produce, crafts, and hot food from local vendors.

Fulton Street Farmer's Market

Nonprofit nature preserve with public hiking trails, educational programs, and animal ambassadors.

Blandford Nature Center

Shop over 70 local merchants in one place!

Arts Marketplace at Studio Park

Zoo with a variety of animals, including penguins and red pandas, plus a funicular, zip line, and ropes course.

John Ball Zoo

﻿Need a place to eat? Here are some of ﻿our favorites!

We recommend the chicken fajitas!Women-owned

Lindo Mexico Restaurante Mexicano

They have THE best french toast and are local!

Littlebird

Their burgers are one of James' all time favorites. They're local and super affordable. (P.S Don't forget to get the Nonla sauce)

Nonla Burger - Grand Rapids

Known for their tapas and brunch!Their croquetas and the bistec con pimenta will change your life.locally owned

San Chez A Tapas Bistro

One of Mikayla's favorites! Their homemade pasta is to die for.

Bistro Bella Vita

The tastiest waffles and funky atmosphere and decor.