Rehearsal Dinner

Kirkwood

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Summer

Our Wedding

We know life is busy and everyone has different travel plans before the wedding! If you are in the area and looking for fun activities to do before or after the wedding, please join us as we explore the mountains of Kirkwood!

Thursday

Thursday evening at 4pm, Zack plans on throwing a competitive disc golf competition starting at ski lift #7 in Kirkwood Valley. Never played disc golf before and don't have a disc? Don't worry, Zack is a professional teacher and has 738,474 discs (according to Mackenzie).

Friday

Mackenzie decided that Friday morning at 10 am was the perfect time to torture everybody on an uphill hike around the Kirkwood Valley walls to the <a href="https:" />Red Cliffs</a>.   5 miles and 1,000 ft elevation? But it's *for the bride*   This in-and-out hike may not be for all, but anyone with physical limitations is welcome to join to their comfort level. The hike is roughly two and a half hours and takes hikers to Sheps Lake, located on the eastern ridge of the Kirkwood mountain range. Please meet outside of Monte Wolfe’s restaurant that morning in order to join the hike!

Saturday

Have Fun! Party! Say hi to the wildlife! Just make sure you know where to find the ceremony and reception sites!

We love Kirkwood and visit often, but for those who do not - please reference the picture above to have a better idea of the area. The reception will be taking place at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/The+Wall+Bar+%26+Grill/@38.6817578,-120.2016011,42258m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x8099f6b2d13b31f1:0xe7afd388e28fcdb5!8m2!3d38.6833658!4d-120.0670186!16s%2Fg%2F11b6_cwbww?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDYxNy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the Wall Bar</a>, and the ceremony site will be directly across the street in the Kirkwood meadow. There will be signs posted to help lost guests, but if your like the bride and often forget to read said signs - please follow someone who looks like they know what's going on.(PSA it's not the bride)

Sunday

Hey we survived the wedding and are looking for a day to relax and celebrate with everyone! After breakfast, we will be meandering to <a href="https://www.kitcarsonlodge.com/activities.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Silver Lake</a> to sunbathe and nurse our hangovers that we swore we wouldn't have. Please join if you are a fan of swimming, fishing, kayaking, or having your friends re-tell the stories of the night prior where you "definitely did not dance on top of the table."

A Look Into Our Week

The story changes depending on who you ask. According to Mackenzie, the first time the couple met was at Chico State in 2017 when Mackenzie was trying to rent a sleeping bag for an upcoming backpacking trip. Zack was the employee helping her out that day. Mackenzie remembers thinking Zack was very cute. She tried to play cool and casually talk / flirt with Zack, but ended up tripping over a chair instead. Zack quickly fled the scene, probably due to embarrassment. It was discovered later that the sleeping bag had a hole in it. However, Zack considers the real first time they met was in 2018 after they matched on the dreaded dating app Tinder. -Mackenzie will casually leave this detail out of their love story- They met for coffee and went for a walk in the woods; which is a very safe first date. Lori (Mackenzie’s mother) found out this detail much much later. Mackenzie brought along her 10 pound puppy Dakota to supervise the meet up and behave as a guard dog, she managed to throw a temper tantrum and place a large hole in Zack’s new jacket. Somehow Zack left the date still liking Mackenzie and hoping to see her again. They have been together ever since, and have discovered many more holes in their clothing - courtesy of Dakota. It is up to you to decide which event should be considered the couple’s first time meeting. A poll will be created and judged later on. If you choose Zack’s story, your vote will be tossed out via the bride.

How We Met

Our Story

Photos

Zack's twin brother, Garrett is currently working as an engineer in Petaluma. Growing up they did everything together; he has been there with Zack through every moment both, awkward and amazing. 

Garrett

Mackenzie's younger sister and built in best friend. Madison currently lives in the greater Sacramento region and is helping solve crimes as a CSI agent for Sacramento Police Department. 

Madison

Zack's younger brother, Shannon is currently getting his masters in marine biology in the Netherlands. His personality is magnetic and his authenticity is something to be admired. 

Shannon

Heather, Mackenzie's sorority sister and college roommate, is an accomplished postpartum nurse living in Santa Clarita with her husband and two dogs in their new home. 

Heather

Bobby is a true Florida man - he has an adventurous spirit and always tells a great story. He currently works in Biomedical Sales and development in San Diego. He and Zack have been friends since 2nd grade.

Bobby

The childhood best friend of Mackenzie's - Kirsti currently lives in Austin Texas with her pup Benny, serving those in-need in her role as a Physician's Assistant. We are trying to convince her to move home and be neighbors forever.

Kirsti

A tinker, thinker, and Coors drinker. John Michael works in Construction in Sacramento. He and Zack have been friends since Kindergarten and have remained friends through every stage of life. 

John Michael

Living in Folsom California, Morgan is a college roommate and sorority sister of Mackenzie. She is currently climbing the ladder in medical device sales and has received presidential awards for her dedication and hard work.  

Morgan Rosen

JP has been a great friend of Zack for many years. He now works in business marketing in the Bay Area. JP has a warm personality, and is able to make anyone feel comfortable and welcome.

A world traveler and an art lover, Morgan goes where the music takes her. Often inspiring those around her to do the same.  She is the cousin of Mackenzie and her first friend.

Morgan Walliser

Julian has been a great friend since Junior High. He is currently finishing his PHD in Political Anthropology and splitting his time between Germany and New York. Julian is a joy to be around and always down for an adventure. 

Julian

Nicole is Mackenzie's Little Sister in her sorority. They were paired together in 2015, and have been inseparable ever since. She currently resides in Windsor with her fiancé and designs healthcare outreach programs for the greater Northern California.

Nicole

A true gamer at heart, you can count on Mario to make any occasion fun with his wit and love of anything competitive. He has recently moved to San Diego, but we secretly want him as a neighbor in Sacramento.

Mario

Shannon, a college roommate and sorority sister of Mackenzie, works as a compassionate labor and delivery nurse in the Sacramento region where she lives with her husband and beautiful baby girl. 

Shannon 

A. part of the original Petaluma friend group, Ryan now works in the field of Neuroscience while living in San Francisco. He has been a  long time friend of Zack, and constant source of laughter and amazing book recommendations.

Ryan

Living nearby in Yuba City with her partner, Veronica is Mackenzie's long-time roommate and sorority sister. She has climbed the ranks in the office of education in Colusa county with her loyal Canine Companion facility dog Worthy. 

Veronica

A friend since Junior High, Ty brings good energy every where he goes. He has also recently moved to San Diego where he works in Biotech. Ask him to freestyle at the after-party, you won't be disappointed.

Wedding Party

Q + A

Please use the group code provided in your save the date to receive 20% discount at any of the hotels listed below. Reservations can be made online at the <a href="https://be.synxis.com/?adult=1&amp;arrive=2025-07-09&amp;chain=6521&amp;child=0&amp;config=SAKW&amp;currency=USD&amp;depart=2025-07-15&amp;dest=TAHOE&amp;hotel=40075&amp;level=hotel&amp;locale=en-US&amp;productcurrency=USD&amp;promo=SKWW25MR&amp;rooms=1&amp;segment=STUDIO&amp;theme=SUMSAKW" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kirkwood Website</a> or by calling (855) 948-0694.

The Lodge at Kirkwood is a classic ski lodge experience in the heart of the village, featuring alpine-style, individually decorated residences with full kitchens. Choose from one- or two-bedroom condos, or two-bedroom condo with a loft for larger groups. Views of village or the mountains, full kitchen, wood fireplace, underground parking.

The Lodge at Kirkwood

The Mountain Club offers room sizes vary to accommodate one and all, from hotel-style rooms with two queen beds, to larger, two-bedroom condos with views of the mountain or plaza. Property amenities include an outdoor hot tub, sauna, steam room, fitness center, and wifi. Top Unit Amenities offer views of mountain or plaza.

The Mountain Club By Kirkwood Resort

The Sentinels complex is tucked alongside the Kirkwood Meadow and just a quick walk to the village. Contemporary styled mountain-rustic, these 1,500 sq. ft. two-bedroom luxury townhomes are perfect for families looking for a true Kirkwood experience. Located near the Meadow, amenities include full kitchen, gas fireplace, a private one-car garage plus a private driveway for one additional car, whirlpool tub, and a washer and dryer.

The Sentinels

A peaceful retreat, the Lost Cabin is located on the Kirkwood meadow and within easy walking distance to the village. These well-designed, contemporary townhomes are the perfect mountain escape. Choose between a 2 or 3 Bedroom with a full kitchen, whirlpool tub, gas fireplace, and private 1-car garage.

The Lost Cabin

Small 2 and 3 bedroom condos or spacious 1, 2, and 3 bedroom townhomes with a mountain side location and views of the meadow. Groups or families will enjoy these units that offer a full kitchen, whirlpool tub, gas fireplace, underground parking and WiFi.

Meadow Stone

One of the most requested accommodations at Kirkwood. These individually decorated condos vary in size from basic double occupancy hotel rooms to larger, two-bedroom condos. Top unit amenities include views of the meadow and Red Cliffs or the mountain.

Meadows Region

Centrally located, Sun Meadows is one of our most popular properties and the best value. These individually decorated condos vary in size from basic double occupancy hotel rooms to larger, two-bedroom condos with lofts for additional sleeping space. These units offer a close proximity to Village.

Sun Meadows

For adventures to remember Timber Ridge puts you right in the middle of Kirkwood in a townhome built for top-of-the-line fun. These 2,200 sq. ft. three-bedroom townhomes are the ideal home base for families and groups. Select a 3-Bedroom unit or a 3-Bedroom plus loft for your stay. Enjoy a full gourmet kitchen, whirlpool tub, gas fireplace, private 2-car garage, and WiFi.

Timber Ridge

Snow Crest Lodge is a luxury condo that sets you up for a true Kirkwood experience. Large windows, stunning views and family friendly make this your dream vacation spot. Whether you choose a one, two, or three bedroom residence, it comes equipped with full kitchens, gas fireplace, underground parking, WiFi, and plenty of room to relax.

Snowcrest Lodge

Travel

Kirkwood General Store

The <a href="https://www.kirkwood.com/explore-the-resort/during-your-stay/dining-pages/general-store.aspx" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kirkwood General Store</a> is located in the Red Cliffs lodge in Kirkwood Valley. Guests can buy ready made sandwiches, purchase drinks, and drip coffee. Stock up for the weekend with groceries and extra Tylenol for Sunday morning!

Kirkwood Inn and Saloon

Off Highway 88, the <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/kirkwood-inn-and-saloon-kirkwood?start=100" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">saloon</a> is located just outside of the main Kirkwood Valley. Step back in time at the historic Kirkwood Inn and enjoy house-made barbecue. The saloon is open Friday through Sunday from 12 pm to 6 pm.

Kit Carson Lodge Restaurant

The <a href="https:" />Kit Carson Lodge</a> is located at Silver Lake Campground, about ten minutes from the Kirkwood Valley. Enjoy a beer on their outdoor patio a stones throw from the water. Zack and I had lunch there after we chose Kirkwood as our wedding venue, we highly recommend their tacos and fried zuchinni!

The Restaurant at Caples Lake

Enjoy a nice glass of wine and braised short ribs with a view of the water on <a href="https://www.capleslakeresort.com/the-restaurant-at-caples-lake" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Caples Lake</a>! The restaurant is open Wednesday through Sunday from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm. ﻿

Dining

Caples Lake

Right behind the Kirkwood Mountain, about a five minute drive, is the beautiful Caples Lake. Discovered at 7,800 ft elevation, it is an alpine lake originally occupied by the Washoe people. At the <a href="https://www.capleslakeresort.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Caples Lake Resort</a> guests can rent kayaks, stand up paddle boards, and even pontoon boats (if scheduled ahead of time with the Marina) for any fun water related activities! Caples Lake is also regularly stocked with brown and rainbow trout by the Department of Fish and Wildlife and is a great place for a fisherman to relax for the day.

Silver Lake

Roughly 10 miles from Kirkwood Valley lies Silver Lake Reservoir. This lake is found at 7,200 ft elevation and is considered an alpine lake. <a href="https:" />Silver Lake</a> is apart of the El Dorado National Forest and offers first-come-first-serve campsites during the warmer months. It also hosts a variety of activities including hiking, fishing, watercraft activities, or just laying out on their beautiful beach. Located in the middle of the lake is Treasure Island, which is accessible by boat or those adventurous enough to swim.

Hiking

The Kirkwood Valley is surrounded by large mountain ranges on three sides and offers beautiful hikes around the valley as well as the peaks above. Hikes can be found on the app <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/us/california/kirkwood" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">AllTrails</a>, and range from beginner to advanced experiences.

Disc Golf

The Kirkwood Valley offers its own disc golf course, starting near lift seven. Any guest who would like to participate in a friendly tournament or learn how to play are encouraged to bring discs!

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is located 30 miles from Kirkwood and is about a 40 minute drive from the mountain resort. South Lake Tahoe is an easy day adventure for anyone planning for a long weekend.

Zack & Mackenzie

Zack & Mackenzie

Registry