Rehearsal Dinner

Aldea Weddings in the Woods

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Afterparty

Goodbye BBQ

Our Wedding

It all started in March 2022, when Mikayla and Ben were introduced through mutual friends. Mikayla had been the maid of honor in a wedding where the groom happened to work alongside Ben as a Flagstaff police officer. What began as a simple introduction quickly turned into something special. Ben’s first thought was, “Wow, she’s way out of my league,” while Mikayla couldn’t help but think, “He’s so cute.” Despite the instant connection, Ben’s shyness left Mikayla to make the first move. Their friends still laugh about the fact that Ben thought they were already dating—Mikayla had to clear things up one night during a game. Soon after, on May 24, 2022, it became official. (Which makes their wedding day even more special, celebrating exactly four years together!) From the beginning, their relationship was filled with laughter, late-night talks, and plenty of adventures. They’ve traveled from New York to Cancun, explored the East Coast, Tennessee, Colorado, California, and keep a running list of places still to see. Parker, Arizona, quickly became a favorite spot—so much so that it became the place Ben got down on one knee and proposed on February 15, 2025. Their biggest adventure, though, began in January 2024, when they learned they were expecting their son, Oliver, who was born that September. Parenthood has brought even more love, joy, and laughter into their story. When they’re not traveling, Mikayla and Ben love discovering new coffee shops, crafting cocktails together, and sharing moments with their incredible group of friends. Most of all, they love spending time with each other—whether it’s late-night conversations or making new memories as a family. Now, they’re excited to continue their journey hand in hand, surrounded by the people who have supported and loved them along the way.

How it all began...

Our Story

Photos

Bride's Side

The bride and Chelsea’s friendship began in the halls of Northern Arizona University in 2015.

Chelsea Heintz

Mariana and the bride have been rocking the friendship game since sixth grade.

Mariana Chavez

The bride and Hannah first BUMPED into each other on the volleyball court back in 2008.

Hannah Rowan 

The bride and Samantha have been sidekicks since 2006, starting as neighbors and school pals in elementary school all the way to adulthood. 

Samantha Smithart

In 2021, the bride met Anya through mutual friends, and they became close soon after.

Anya Fowler

Emily holds a special title; she’s the bride’s niece.

Emily Hagemann

Groom's Side

The groom was introduced to Justin in 2022, thanks to the bride and his wife Chelsea.

Justin Sovick

Alex is the groom's younger brother and the middle of the three boys.

Alexander Wolf 

Matt is the groom's younger brother and the youngest of the three boys.

Matthew Wolf

The groom met Brian at Flagstaff Police Department back in 2020. Fun fact- Brian actually introduced the bride and groom!

Brian Smithart

Jason is the bride’s brother, but he and the groom have shared a unique friendship that’s been growing since 2022.

Jason Hagemann

Dylan holds the special role of being the bride’s nephew.

Dylan Hagemann

Officiant 

Caspar is a dear friend of the couple, witnessing and supporting their journey from the very beginning.

Caspar Valk 

Baby Party

Oliver is the sweet little boy of the bride and groom.

Oliver Wolf 

The newest addition to the crew! The son of Chelsea Heintz and Justin Sovick!

Rory Heintz-Sovick 

The sweetest little girl to Anya and her husband Matt Fowler!

Emma Folwer 

The two handsomest boys of Samantha and Brian Smithart.

Andy and Zander Smithart

Wedding Party

Q + A

Places to stay

Courtyard Flagstaff

SpringHill Suites Flagstaff

Little America Hotel

Home2 Suites by Hilton Flagstaff

Search in the ‘Kachina Village’ , ‘Mountainaire’ &amp; 'Flagstaff' areas.

Airbnb/VRBO

Flying to Arizona

This is a small airport located 6 miles away from the wedding venue. Unfortunately, we do not know which states fly into this airport due to it being a smaller.

Flagstaff Pulliam Airport

This is the main airport in Arizona. However, it is about 2 hours and 142 miles away from the wedding venue.

Mikayla & Benjamin

Mikayla & Benjamin

Photos