Cheers & Lakeside Chalet

Wedding Day

#IPakKangLoveYou

Our Wedding

&lt;Her Side of the Story&gt;When I moved to Columbus, Ohio, back in August of 2022, I was looking to find community in a strange new place.I was expecting to come across corn fields and a peaceful, small town life, but little did I know that my world would expand greatly in the next few years... I was first introduced to Joe at a boba shop by a group of mutual friends. I vaguely remember that he was friendly and said he liked karaoke. The next meeting we had was at a bowling alley, when Joe and I were placed on the same team and he randomly started referring to me as "Team Captain." I thought he was funny and enjoyed his playfulness. We gradually became closer over the course of two years thanks to our group of friends (and many rounds of pickleball), but it wasn't until the early months of 2024 that I started to see potential in being more than friends. I distinctly remember Joe reaching out to me during his time of moving apartments, asking me to help him pack because he was "bad at packing." I thought this was a slightly strange request, but simultaneously felt a mysterious urge to help him. This led to us spending more quality time as friends as we found similarities between each other-including activities that we both enjoyed such as hiking, biking, and going to museums. Over our time of hanging out one-on-one I began to see sides of Joe that I really admired, including his ability to always bring a smile to people around him, no matter how dire the situation. I also saw how considerate he is, his devotion to God, and how deeply he cares for those who are lucky enough to call him their friend. Eventually, when we became a couple, I realized that Joe brought out sides of me that I never knew I had, including a playful and bright side of me. His constant love and loyalty gradually broke down any doubts and fears I felt in my heart and led me to the point where I could confidently say that he is my best friend, and someone I would be honored to spend the rest of my life with.I thank God for leading us together in his perfect time and for allowing us this opportunity to share our love with those around us! &lt;His Side of the Story&gt;When I first met Minji at a boba shop, I wasn’t exactly nervous, but I remember thinking, “Don’t say or do anything dumb.” She had this incredible smile, and though it was winter and we were all bundled up, I could already tell she was cute. It was one of those moments where you instantly know someone is special, even if you don’t fully understand why yet. Our second meeting was at a bowling alley, where I jokingly started calling her “Team Captain.” I was completely drawn to her playful nature and quick wit. Over time, as we hung out more through mutual friends and countless rounds of pickleball, I realized she had this subtle competitive edge that made her even more intriguing. Little did she know, I was already falling for her, but I kept my feelings to myself and took the “love her from afar” approach. It wasn’t until early 2024 that I mustered the courage to ask her out. Our first one-on-one hangout was rock climbing, something I had recently gotten into. I wanted to share something I loved with her, and to my surprise, she said yes! That day, we talked, laughed, and bonded in a way that felt completely natural. After that, our connection only deepened through our hikes and bike rides. Somewhere along the trails, I stopped seeing her as just a crush and realized she was the one I wanted to share my life with. What I admire most about Minji is her openness to try anything, even things outside her comfort zone. She doesn’t like heavy music, but she came with me to a metal show and watched me get tossed around in the pit, standing just close enough to support me but far enough to stay safe. She’s fiercely honest and challenges me in ways that make me a better man. Her faith, her kindness, and her strength inspire me every day. When I finally asked her out, it wasn’t some grand, elaborate plan, just a simple come help me pack my things for a move, some outdoor pickleball, a dinner and a walk at Bridge Park to wrap up the night. Y'know, simple lol. After stalling for two hours, I realized there was no perfect moment, so I just made one. I told her how I felt and how much I admired her. To my amazement, she said yes. From that moment on, I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life with her. Looking back, I’d thank God for every challenge and hardship that led me to her. One of my favorite songs is "God Bless The Broken Road" and that's exactly how I felt looking at our relationship. She brought me back to my faith, to laughter, and to a version of myself I’m proud to be. Life with Minji feels like an answered prayer, one that keeps surprising me with how much love and joy it brings.

Our Story (Her Side vs. His Side) 

Our Story

Photos

Estelle Song

Solomon Jeong

Caeli Quiter

Wojin Jung

David Kim

Justina Dziama

Andrew Shin

Pauline Dziama

Michael Zhang

Lauren Cox

Wooil Jung

Meghna Sapui

Stephen Meng

Taewook Kang

Josh Pak

Wedding Party

Q + A

If you will be traveling by airplane, we recommend flying into the John Glenn Columbus International Airport&nbsp;(CMH). From the airport, the venue (Cheers Chalet) is a 40 minute drive.We expect to carpool from Cheers Chalet to the gogo bar (our after party location). If you need a ride or can offer a ride after the reception, please let us know! Hotel Options:1) Moxy Columbus, Short North 808 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215 You can book at a discounted rate with the URL below if you'd like. If you book here, the hotel also said they will provide a complimentary drink token for each guest in the room! The discounted rate is only available if you book before 5/12/25.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1738255555446&amp;key=GRP&amp;guestreslink2=true&amp;app=resvlink" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1738255555446&amp;key=GRP&amp;guestreslink2=true&amp;app=resvlink</a> This hotel is also close to the gogo bar (987 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43201), which will be where our afterparty will post-reception! It's a 13 min walk! Feel free to contact Minji or Joseph for any questions regarding transportation and lodging!

2) Graduate Columbus&nbsp; This hotel also offers a discounted rate if booked through the URL below and it is a short distance walk from our after party location as well!If the URL is not showing the discounted rate, please click the "special rate" button and type in 91C for the group code when searching for your room. 750 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215Phone: <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=graduate+columbus&amp;rlz=1C5GCCM_en&amp;oq=graduate+columbus&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqCggAEAAY4wIYgAQyCggAEAAY4wIYgAQyFggBEC4YrwEYxwEYgAQYmAUYmQUYngUyBwgCEAAYgAQyBwgDEAAYgAQyBwgEEAAYgAQyBwgFEAAYgAQyCAgGEAAYFhgeMgYIBxBFGDzSAQgyODY2ajBqN6gCALACAA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8#" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">(614) 484-1900</a> Link to book: <a href="https://www.hilton.com/en/book/reservation/rooms/?ctyhocn=CMHCLGU&amp;arrivalDate=2025-06-12&amp;departureDate=2025-06-15&amp;groupCode=91C&amp;room1NumAdults=1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.hilton.com/en/book/reservation/rooms/?ctyhocn=CMHCLGU&amp;arrivalDate=2025-06-12&amp;departureDate=2025-06-15&amp;groupCode=91C&amp;room1NumAdults=1</a>

Travel

Explore the charming cobblestone streets of German Village, grab coffee, and visit the iconic 32-room Book Loft.

The Book Loft of German Village

A picturesque downtown area with parks, fountains, and walking paths along the Scioto River. Great for a sunset stroll.

Scioto Mile

A vibrant neighborhood filled with galleries, boutique shops, and amazing restaurants. Perfect for guests looking for a fun afternoon. Must-see murals and public art make it a great spot for photos!

Short North Arts District

A Columbus staple with authentic German cuisine and their famous jumbo cream puffs.

Schmidt’s Sausage Haus Restaurant

A peaceful escape just outside of the city with beautiful trails, wooded areas, and scenic ponds. Perfect for a morning stroll or a quiet afternoon.

Blendon Woods Metro Park

A favorite of ours for hikes and nature views. The trails are beginner-friendly, and the overlook deck provides stunning views of the Olentangy River.

Highbanks Metro Park

If you’re looking for a peaceful walk surrounded by flowers and themed gardens, this is the perfect spot. Great for photography, too!

Inniswood Metro Gardens

For a fun, immersive experience, book a session at this VR game room. It’s a unique activity that’s perfect for groups or couples looking for adventure!(Note: Reservations are required in advance.)

Sandbox VR

Located on Kenny Road, this spot is one of our favorite places for authentic Sichuan cuisine. Try the Storm Fish Filet or Twice Cooked Pork!

ChiliSpot

A hidden gem for incredible Cajun food with a cozy, upscale vibe. Their gumbo and jambalaya are must-tries!

Gallo's Kitchen & Bar

This cozy breakfast spot is a go-to for delicious coffee and morning bites. It’s the perfect way to start your day.

Joya's

A charming European-inspired teahouse and café. We had one of our first dates here, so it holds a special place in our hearts! Try their pastries or afternoon tea service.

Mozart's Bakery and Event Space

A Brazilian steakhouse that’s perfect for food lovers! This was another one of our early date spots, and the endless meats are always a hit.

Rodizio Grill Brazilian Steakhouse Columbus

One of the most stunning rooftop bars in the area, with views of Dublin and a chic ambiance. Perfect for evening drinks and light bites with a view!

VASO Rooftop Lounge

Things to Do

Registry

Your love is the greatest gift, and your presence at our wedding is all we ask. If you feel moved to give, a financial blessing would be warmly received as we begin our life together. For financial blessings, please send them via Venmo (@Minjmeist), or Zelle (7166042937). Thank you for being a part of our celebration and our lives!

Registry/Gifts

Schedule of Events 

6/13/25 5-10pmWedding Ceremony and Reception Location: Cheers Chalet1211 Coonpath Rd NW, Lancaster, OH 43130 10:30pm~until Joe gets tiredAfter PartyLocation: The Go Go987 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43201

Minji & Joseph

Minji & Joseph

M&J

Wedding Day

#IPakKangLoveYou