Joseph Thomas Reeves Jr.
Julia Marie Spatenka
Joseph Thomas Reeves Jr.
Julia Marie Spatenka
July 18, 2026
Our Story
Some moments in life arrive quietly, yet leave a spark that changes everything. That was us, two paths crossing at the perfect time in a way that felt both surprising and inevitable. After a little hesitation, we finally met in person at a cozy sushi spot in Owatonna. From the very first laugh, we knew something extraordinary had begun. When you know, you know. One of our most treasured moments together was watching the sun sink below the horizon at the edge of Lake Geneva, sitting side by side in the back of our truck. Under the stars, we first said “I love you,” and for a few perfect minutes, the world seemed to exist only for us. That same quiet magic later became the backdrop for our engagement on July 12, just four months after we first met. Moments like that remind us that love isn’t just about milestones, it’s about the small, everyday magic we find in each other’s presence, in laughter shared, and in the comfort of simply being together. Our love is rooted in the way we see each other, truly see each other, and in the certainty that whatever life brings, we’ll face it together. From California to Minnesota, from simple adventures to life-changing milestones, we’ve built a life full of laughter, tenderness, and shared excitement for the future. As we prepare to celebrate our love surrounded by those we hold dear, we can’t wait to continue writing the next chapters of our story, hand in hand, heart to heart.
Travel
Hotel
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Baxter, MN
Hotel
Quality Inn & Suites Brainerd
Hotel
AmericInn by Wyndham Baxter Brainerd
Hotel
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Baxter Brainerd Area
Hotel
Baymont by Wyndham Baxter / Brainerd Area
Registry
Wedding Party
Jonathan Smith
Best Man
Tim Anderson
Groomsman
Devin Garrison
Groomsman
William Imgrund
Groomsman
Cedric Weathersby
Groomsman
Jessica Spatenka
Maid of Honor
Jenna Spatenka
Maid of Honor
Kalle Jones
Bridesmaid
Natalie Wagaman
Bridesmaid
Hailey Wagaman
Bridesmaid
Lincoln Anderson
Ring Bearer
Gallery
FAQs
Question
Do you have a hotel block for guests?
Answer
Due to several other weddings and events going on in the area we were not able to book any hotel blocks. Please see the travel page for more info.
Question
Are kids welcome?
Answer
We love your kiddos very much but since our venue only accommodates 60 people max, kids are not invited to the wedding.
Question
Will there be alcohol?
Answer
Our wedding will be a dry event with no alcohol served. We will have a variety of non-alcoholic beverages available.
Question
Can I bring a plus one?
Answer
To ensure we can accommodate all our beloved guests, only those explicitly named on your invitation are included. Thank you for understanding!
Question
Is there parking for the ceremony or reception?
Answer
There will be limited parking available at The Emerald Cottage. We encourage you to carpool or use a ridesharing service!
Question
What is the dress code?
Answer
The dress code is semi-formal to dressy-casual. We suggest dresses or dressy separates for women and suits (tie optional) or dress pants and a button up shirt for men. Please no jeans, jean shorts, or tennis shoes.
Question
Can I take pictures during the ceremony?
Answer
We kindly request that guests do not take photos during the event. We have professional photographers to capture every moment so we can unplug and enjoy!
Question
Do you have a wedding registry?
Answer
Yes, we have a wedding registry! You can find all the details on the Registry page of our website!
Question
How should I RSVP?
Answer
To RSVP, go to the RSVP page on this website.
Question
What happens if it rains?
Answer
Our ceremony will move indoors and take place inside the Cottage instead of by the lake.
Question
I still have questions, what is the best way to contact you?
Answer
For any questions or concerns, please feel free to text Julia at (507) 676-5472 or Joseph at (507) 851-9071.