Two summers ago, we both found ourselves at Castaway Club in Detroit Lakes — Matt on the program team as the “Milk Man,” and Emma leading a group of high school Young Life girls. Emma was actually supposed to be at a Young Life camp in Michigan that week, but the trip was switched to Castaway last minute — and we’re so thankful it did! With a few mutual friends doing some gentle matchmaking, sparks flew, and conversations turned into long walks, coffee dates, and lake sunsets. Two years later, we’re getting married right here on Pelican Lake! We’re so grateful for how the Lord guided our story.

This past August, Matt proposed at Emma’s parents’ cabin outside Detroit Lakes. Emma was sunbathing when Matt joined her, chatting casually as if it were any other summer day. In a quiet moment, he stepped aside, got down on one knee, and asked the big question! Surrounded by their closest family and friends, the day became a celebration full of joy and relaxation, complete with Emma’s dad’s famous brisket and a bonfire to end the night — a perfect start to the next chapter!