Natalie and I met on the second day of college, but despite my best efforts, she didn't give me the time of day for a few months. After some desperate attempts to get her attention, I finally got on her radar; a study date at the K College library was my foot in the door!

We officially kicked things off with a "formal" first date at the Detroit Institute of Arts. I think I was masquerading as a cultured art lover in hopes of winning the heart of this Waldorf-educated skilled artist that I had found myself utterly in love with. After two hours in a museum she saw through my charade, but something must have worked because she agreed to a second date...

Somehow I managed not to scare her off with my dad (some would say bad) jokes, overtly eclectic music taste and neurotic behaviors and after graduation we moved in together.

We built a home together, added a member to our family (don't worry I'm only talking about our Bernedoodle, Mabel), and I can now say I think she's grown a bit fond of me! I proposed to Natalie on Belle Isle in Detroit, MI in August of 2024 and through my scatter-brained speech, switching between which knee I was kneeling on, and some tears she said yes.

We could not be more excited to celebrate what will surely be the best day of our lives (so far!) with you all. We are honored and excited to see everyone, and hope you all have a great weekend in the place we call home.

As you prepare for your trip to Detroit, please don't hesitate to reach out with lodging or activity questions. While our weekends typically consist of working and walking the dog, we promise we also know the cool spots in town to visit! We can't wait to see you all.

Love,

The Soon to be Akervalls

Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center

Shinola Hotel

The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit