Sacred Heart Parish

Celebration of Marriage

Tobacco Ranch

Reception

Our Wedding

Their story begins in the town on Mount Pleasant, MI. Nick and Whitney lived only 1.5 miles apart for their whole childhood. Despite being so close and growing up in such a small town, they don't think they ever actually met. Fast forward many many years later, Whitney gets a friend request from Nick and accepts, as she knows of his family. A couple weeks later, she posts a picture of her at Nationals game in Washington DC and a notification pops on her phone that says "Nicholas Smith has liked your photo." Little did she know, they would match on Bumble the week she returned home. They began messaging and getting to know one another, which Whitney found hard to do because he was giving her one word answers and not acting interested. At that point she began to give up on him, until he messaged her while out with his friends and they realized they were at bars very close to one another. With the support and presence of her friend Kate, Whitney decided to meet up with him at the one and only Anchor Bar and had a great time. That night, Nick invited Whitney to watch him sing karaoke on Instagram live, and she knew she wanted to go on a date with him, as she finally found someone just as weird and goofy as her. Their first date was to a Whitecaps game. They talked very openly and had many laughs. Whitney felt so comfortable, it was like they had known each other their whole lives! It ended up being the best first date she had ever been on, which was saying a lot because she had been on many! They continued to go on many wonderful dates, but Whitney knew Nick was the one after they went to prom together. As a chaperone for the high school he worked for, Nick promposed to Whit with a homemade sign. On the way there, he even made a playlist of the songs that were played at their senior proms. They danced the night away and had the best time. His thoughtfulness and fun personality have not changed to this day! Whitney has never met someone as thoughtful, kind, funny, and strong as Nick. He has a huge heart and would do anything for her and anyone he loves. He is constantly making her feel special, loved, and like she can be herself. So it was an easy decision to make when he asked her to marry him.

Whitney’s Perspective

A long, long time ago, in a city somewhat far away, Nick and Whitney grew up less than two miles a part, attended the same elementary school, and made it official once Nick entered high school as Whit was beginning her senior year. Fairytale stuff. Actually, that couldn't be further from the truth. Nick had actively been searching for the one, from Mt. Pleasant to Tempe to Royal Oak, to Grand Rapids. He could not find a girl who has no tattoos, who is Catholic, and will act like they love Michigan and the Tigers. After missing shot after shot, Nick decided to commit to being a full-time bachelor. After his friend David's wedding in spring of 2019, Nick announced to the small crowd, "I gave it all I had. When I get back I am settling down." Little did he know how accurate that quote was about to be. Shortly after returning from California, Nick opened his bumble app and came across a familiar face named Whitney. He decided to test his luck and it was the best decision (swipe right) of his life. There was some small talk, but Nick came across rude because of his lack of responses due to the birth of his first nephew, Evan. Once Evan was finally born, Nick found more time to text Whit. After a few drinks with some friends, Nick worked up the courage to ask Whit to meet up at the Anchor Bar. Thankfully, Whit had also been drinking that same evening, and she agreed to meet up. Nick will never forget "that smile" as soon as her saw her, but almost gave up instantly, as she was taller that night because she was wearing heels. The night was filled with smiles and laughter, and they continued to talk via text over the next few days. Days later, they had their official "first date." Whit agreed to a night out at a Whitecaps game and Nick almost brought a ring that first night. Whit said she was running late, something he would later find out would be a normal thing. Nick was standing outside his car putting on his belt as Whit pulled up. Nick was very surprised to be greeted with a laugh rather than a look of disgust. It was a "Juanderful" night and the best/last first date of all time. They continued to try to please each other during the honeymoon phase but they both learned very early that they could just be themselves. It didn't take long for Nick to cry and tell Whit he loved her. They would often talk about marriage, and then he proposed a little over a year after dating. They've made it through three wedding dates (shout out covid), and Nick couldn't be happier to finally make Whit his wife.

Nick’s Perspective

Our Story

Doherty Hotel

Quality Inn

Best Western Clare Hotel

Travel

Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort

A local reputable establishment you can stop by between the ceremony and the reception!

The Bird Bar & Grill

Eagle Glen Golf Course

Cops & Doughnuts Headquarters

Things to Do

Starting at Best Man, Standing 6'3" from Carmel, IN, #1 in your programs and #1 in your hearts, STUUUUUUUUUUU DOUGLASSSSSSSSSSSSS! Stuart and Nicholas met through a mutual friend in college. They were able to form an authentic friendship, even though Stu initially hadn't the slightest clue of Nick's existence, as Nick was yelling "STUUUUUUUUUU" at the TV. Their bond strengthened over the inability to obtain sufficient sleep. The time difference between Israel and Michigan always made it convenient for a deep conversation.  Additionally, their infatuation with Tom Crean (#CreanBringsEveryoneTogether) allows their friendship to remain steady. Finally, their love for IPAs, Dave Matthews Band concerts at Deer Creek, and all things Indy helped certify them as known friends & trusted agents. Nick can always count on Stu for a listening ear, for THE BEST advice, and to answer facetimes when it's inconvenient. Nick is truly Grateful to have Stu stand on his side as he gets married, and he is eternally Grateful for his friendship.

Stuart Douglass - Best Friend of the Groom

There is no one else Whitney would have by her side as she gets married! Her sister has been there for her through all her ups and downs, always there to listen and give great advice. She also matches her weirdness and understands her like nobody else! There is never a dull moment when these two are together.  Which you will notice by the volume of their identical laughs. Whitney has looked up to her big sister all her life. Growing up she wanted to be just like her, and now she hopes to be a great wife and mother just as she is. Because of Jill, Whitney has someone to lean on and confide in, but also a great example to follow. 

Jill Byrd - Sister of the Bride

Nate was originally standing on Nick's side for the wedding, but Whitney decided she could not get married without one of her best friends by her side. Nate is not only always a great time, but also a very trustworthy and loyal brother. Nate is someone Whitney can trust with anything. He is also a great listener and gives unbiased advice without judging. Because of this, Whitney and Nate have many deep and meaningful conversations. Though they live across the state, they check in with each other often. It is not always serious though! Whenever these two get together, there is non-stop laughter. They have made many great memories together throughout the years. Some of her favorites are when Nate would visit her in Grand Rapids for his Spring Break every year. Whitney is thankful that God sent her and Jill a brother after they wrote him a letter asking for one and threw it to heaven :)

Nate Thering - Brother of the Bride

Starting at Groomsman, Standing 6'1", from Studio City, CA, Adaaaammmmmmm Ehrrrrrrrliccccccchhh! Adam and Nick have only known each other for a few years, but most would think they have been life long friends. Their friendship is very strong, despite living on opposite sides of the country. Adam and Nick often have deep conversations about life, always listening to each other, and offering advice and support when needed. They love playing the "Name Game" featuring players from the video game MVP Baseball 2005. Adam hosted Nick while he vacationed in California, and Nick hosted Adam while he vacationed in Michigan. They have literally given each other the shirts off their backs. Although developed later in life, they have a friendship that will last forever. 

Adam Ehrlich - Friend of the Groom

Whitney cannot explain how thankful she is for her friendship with Sarah! They met while teaching at the same school, and grew closer and closer throughout the years, confiding in each other and helping one another through the up and downs that teaching brings. Whitney only hopes everyone can find a work bestie like Sarah! She not only leaned on her for work reasons, but also when it came to life and relationship struggles. They furthered their bond through yoga, Game of Thrones, the Bachelor, and so much more! Whitney will cherish their friendship forever and is so thankful to have Sarah stand by her on her wedding day.

Sarah Aalderink - Friend of the Bride

Starting at Groomsman, Standing 6'0" from Los Angeles, CA, Daaaaaaaaaviddddddddd Harrrrrrrmannnnnnnnnnn! Haaaaaaaaaaaaave ya met David? Oh, apparently we don't ask that question anymore. David and Nick's friendship began at CMU when they discovered their shared love of hot n readys, admiral nelson, and quoting How I Met Your Mother. David and Nick were always on a quest to find "the one." Looking back, it is no surprise we were unsuccessful, but all our practice paid off, and we can both say we found our better halves after graduating. I can confidently say Jamie and Whit would not be interested in college David and Nick. David moved across the country, got married, and recently he and his wife had their first child. With such busy lifestyles, it is not easy to stay connected. In fact, Nick always intended on asking David stand up in the wedding, but he plum forgot. One night between the first and second scheduled wedding date, Nick called David and they reconnected as if they were listening to Backstreet Boys while eating hot n readys and drinking a half gallon of admiral nelson. It was then Nick remembered to ask David to be in the wedding, and he couldn't be more excited! 

David Harman - Friend of the Groom

Tanya is a friend who Whitney knows would drop anything to be there for her. They first met playing on the Shots softball team, and immediately became close friends. Though they have both since retired from the sport, they fill the void with golfing,  meeting for many after work drinks, and talking about plants. They share a love of sports, fantasy football, and anything outdoors. Whitney has fond memories fishing, strawberry picking, and hunting with Tanya. They are very very similar, which makes their friendship so easy and enjoyable. Whitney feels so lucky to have Tanya in her life and to stand by her during her most important day.

Tanya Pawlukiewicz - Friend of the Bride

Starting at Groomsman, Standing 6'3, from Rockford, MI, Derrrrrrekkkkkk Schuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuberrrrrrrrrttt! Derek and Nick have been first cousins since 1989. The two developed a tight bond in the late 90s that still remains strong today. Nick began to admire Derek when he would travel to watch Nick's youth sporting events. Nick has always thought highly of Derek, so much that he selected him to be his Confirmation Sponsor. Nick was the ring bearer in Derek and his wife Jen's wedding. Many tears were shed. Some may say it was because Nick was extremely happy for the newly weds, but others may say it was because Nick thought he was losing Derek to Jen. The latter was later confirmed to be false, as the two remain very close. The two regularly attend Dave Matthews Band concerts and Michigan Football games together. Derek always makes sure Nick is properly hydrated heading into the games. Derek has provided so much for Nick over the years, and Nick can only hope one day to return the favor.

Derek Schubert - Cousin of the Groom

Jess and Whitney started as cousins, but grew into great friends. Whitney has many memories with Jess, including many sleepovers as kids, traveling to watch Jess's cheerleading competitions in high school, Jess picking Whit up from college to go to Central Western weekend in K-Zoo, and so many more! When they got older, they even moved in together. Whitney was so happy to stand up for Jess at her wedding, and is glad to she will be doing the same for her.  Whitney can always count on Jess for a good time and she feels so lucky to call her family and a friend!

Jessica Gross - Cousin of the Bride

Starting at Groomsman, Standing 5'7" from Dexter, MI, Brrrrrryyyyyannnntttttt Smithhhhhhhhhhh! Bryant is the middle Smith child. Like Jordan and Nick, their friendship was forced. Despite some differences in interests, they developed a healthy relationship through admiration and respect for each other. Nick looked up to Bryant while they were growing up, and always wanted to be an all-state athlete like he was. Nick also wishes he could sing like Bryant. As the first Smith boy to get married and to have a child, Bryant has displayed how to be a true family man, and has set a positive example for Nick.

Bryant Smith - Brother of the Groom

Karra and Whitney met in elementary school, which makes her Whitney's oldest friend! Most of her favorite memories growing up include Karra. There was not too much to do in their small town, so they made their own fun! This included bridge jumping, toilet papering houses, off roading, and even a couple run-ins with the cops. Karra is an all around great person and friend. Whitney is so thankful they became friends all those years ago, as she has certainly had a part in shaping the person Whitney is today. Though she currently lives far away, they always pick up right where they left off. 

Karra Barker - Friend of the Bride

Starting at Groomsman, Standing 5'7" from High Point, NC, Dr. Jordddddannnnnnn Smithhhhhhhhhhh! Jordan is Nick's oldest brother. As a result, Nick always looked up to, and admired whatever Jordan did. Jordan has done many things Nick could only wish to do, including graduate from the University of Michigan (twice), play guitar and sing (and do them well!), and maintain a donkey brolic figure. Their friendship started as an obligation, but it grew and developed by choice and by respect for one another. Nick Greatly appreciates Jordan's medical and life advice. They continue to communicate and maintain a strong bond while being separated by many miles. 

Jordan Smith - Brother of the Groom

Kelsey and Whitney met the day they were born...on the same day in the same hospital! They knew each other growing up, but did not become close friends until college, when they became instant besties! They were there for each other through the ups and downs of college life. During their college years, they made many great memories, including many nights out on the town, lots of country concerts, and spring break trips. They was even a time when they worked together as waitresses at Shots. Whitney is thankful for Kelsey's friendship and all the great memories they have shared over the years.

Kelsey Jewett - Friend of the Bride

Brycen made Whitney an aunt, her favorite role! He constantly amazes her with his kind heart, curiosity, and sense of humor. Aunt Oona loves playing games, reading books, and bird watching with Brycen. They share a special bond, as she is his Godmother. Uncle Pee Pee and Brycen share a love for Michigan football. Their lives would not be the same without Brycen!

Brycen Byrd - Nephew of the Bride

Conner brings so much joy and laughter to Nick and Whitney's lives. His goofiness and colorful imagination keep everyone around him well entertained. Aunt Oona loves snuggling with Fluffy (Connor's dog name), and being silly with Connor. Uncle Pee Pee loves wrestling and having dance parties with Connor. We feel so lucky to have Connor as a nephew!

Connor Byrd - Nephew of the Bride

Evan came into the world right before Nick and Whit officially started dating. His birth was a huge conversation starter at the beginning stages of their relationship. Evan made Nick an uncle for the first time just over three years ago.  Evan is always elated whenever he gets to visit with Funcle Nick and Aunt Whitney. They enjoy playing, coloring, singing, dancing, and being silly with each other.

Whitney & Nicholas

Whitney & Nicholas

Travel

Doherty Hotel

Quality Inn

Best Western Clare Hotel