After several missed connections due to busy schedules and last minute hiccups, Melissa and Andrew were finally able to find a busy Monday in June to squeeze in a first date at Otus Supply. Andrew was technically recovering from the “man flu” and Melissa from a stretch of night shifts at work, but they were able to make the best of a long dinner filled with endless laughter and conversation. To Melissa’s surprise (and excitement), Andrew asked if she’d be interested in getting an after-dinner drink at a new brewery in town. They drove (separately) over to Urbanrest, which appeared to be more like an abandoned warehouse where murder mysteries begin as not a light was on, nor a soul in sight. Thankfully, it wasn’t the beginning of a horror movie as it was just closed for the night, but they were able to find an event better setting at Public House to continue getting to know one another. They both left that night thinking that was someone they’d like to be around for a long time to come.
A while later, Andrew and Melissa knew things were getting serious. They had been dreaming of moving to Traverse City for a while, and decided they were both ready to make a change. Andrew found a job quickly but had a couple of weeks before he needed to be in Traverse City for work, so they decided to take a last minute trip to Grand Staircase, Utah. They rented a yurt their first night, which ended up being quite an adventure during a wind storm of 50+ mph winds. The following morning, however, they were pleasantly surprised to wake to a beautiful, peaceful, sunny day. They made their way toward their first hike, where they came upon a beautiful waterfall with only one other couple around. Melissa offered to take their picture, and afterwards they returned the favor. Melissa set out to the waterfall to prepare for the picture, with Andrew following behind with what she would soon find out was the best question she’d ever been asked, and one with the easiest answer.
On August 28, 2020, Melissa and Andrew started their forever together in a wonderfully intimate and beautiful ceremony. The year had plenty of twists and turns, but they did their best to navigate it in a way that allowed them to begin their life together on the date that they had intended. Although they were not able to enjoy the company of all of their family and friends in one large celebration, they are excited to celebrate with each of their loved ones for years to come in more intimate settings as gatherings become safe again. They appreciate their loved ones support and understanding throughout, and hope these photos of their special day bring you as much joy as they had and continue to hold in their hearts.