Bay Harbor Golf Club

Welcome Party

The Perry Hotel

Wedding Day

Perry Hotel

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

Reception

Our Wedding

We met on Hinge.Yes, actually. No, we’re not making up a cuter story.

December 2023: They both worked for the same hospital system in Grand Rapids. Kate was at the children’s hospital, Ryan was across the bridge at the adult hospital. Their buildings were connected — but somehow it still took an algorithm to introduce them. Considering he wasn’t even from the area and was only in Michigan for his fellowship, it’s safe to say they probably never would have met otherwise.

The first date was rescheduled more times than they’d like to admit. Winter dating in Michigan is not for the weak, but he never gave up! Finally, the two decided to stop postponing (Or Kate finally stopped rescheduling, whatever) — even with a massive snowstorm on the way.He planned to meet for tea, unfortunately, the tea shop was closed due to the storm. So instead, they walked.Cheap date!Up North Monroe, across the Sixth Street Bridge, as snow fell endlessly around them. The city looked like a snow globe — glittering and quiet and kind of magical. They talked and laughed for hours, completely ignoring the cold and the fact that they probably couldn’t feel their toes.The chemistry was immediate. They've been together ever since.

First Date 

That winter, they fell in love during the coldest months of the year — sneaking away from work for cafeteria coffee and quick lunches whenever they could.A few months in, Kate accidentally told Ryan that she loved him. It slipped out at the end of a phone call — like when you accidentally say it to your dentist or after ordering take out. Super romantic, right? Except she absolutely meant it. Oops! Fell in love with you!

Oops! I love you

That fellowship turned into another fellowship and their suitcases and boxes turned into shared spaces ( but never a shared closet — let’s not be unreasonable). They moved to Detroit, built a new life together, and learned that home is less about geography and more about who you’re standing next to. &amp; where the dog is!Ryan proposed on Belle Isle — perfectly positioned between his home in Ontario and hers in Michigan — which felt like the most fitting place to promise forever.Now the two have landed in Petoskey, where they will gather their favorite people and start this next chapter officially.What started with a snowstorm and a dating app somehow turned into forever. Thanks Hinge!

& Now 

Our Story

Photos

Stacy is the sister of the Bride, the anchor, and the matron of honor. She is the mother of three beautiful ladies (best flower girls ever!). Stacy has poured her heart into making this wedding special, and in the process, brought her and Kate even closer. Couldn't imagine this day without her!

Hobbies/Interests: gardening, hobby farming, Harry Potter trivia, answering 5 calls from the Bride per day 

Stacy Helmholdt

The Bride's best friend, forever person, and conveniently her first cousin! Leah and Kate haven't spent more than a month apart since birth. Truly soul sisters connected by a million precious (and silly) memories. 

Hobbies/Interests: Fitness, fashion, and training her gorgeous German Sheppard (my niece), Luna, & family time. 

Leah

The Groom's incredible sister- brilliant, kind, and truly exuberant. She's a major reason Ryan is the patient and thoughtful man Kate fell in love with (and likely why he understands Kate's sense of humor). So grateful that she's traveling all the way from Toronto to celebrate this union. This day wouldn't be complete without her. 

Hobbies/Interests: traveling, fitness, 

Taylor

Hailie was the Bride's college roommate (Go Bronco's!), and they quickly discovered their remarkable compatibility. Hailie is truly a friendship soulmate. The type of friend and confidant that you'll never stop being thankful for. As a wedding photographer, Hailie has brought both beauty, inspiration, and calm to this entire process. The Bride owes her for most of the creative and special touches you will experience at this wedding.

Hobbies/Interests: Boxing, spending time with family, film /television, and anything creative. 

Hailie

Kailee is the Bride's clever, brave, and outspoken bestie. She is our city girl who is traveling to us from Chicago. In their shared apartments in college, Kailee shared her passion, lived experiences, and fire freely. One may point to this when asking where Kate's political energy started. Very lucky to have her companionship and energy with me on this day. 

Hobbies/Interests: traveling, walking her Golden Retriever (my nephew) Louis, and is a self-proclaimed foodie 

Kailee

Mike is a longtime friend of Ryan’s from their days studying microbiology at York University—so yes, there’s a bit of shared nerdiness at the core of their friendship. Now based in Calgary, Mike balances that academic side with a love of the outdoors. He’s kind, quick-witted, and always great to be around. Some of Ryan’s favorite memories with Mike revolve around meals at his dad’s restaurant, where good food and even better company were guaranteed. We’re so grateful he made the trip all the way to Northern Michigan to celebrate with us

Mike 

Kevin is a longtime friend of Ryan’s from their days in University, alongside Mike. Ryans fondest memory with Kevin is skiing together at Blue Mountain and Mont Tremblant. Ryans especially excited to have his university group reunited for such an important day, and we’re so happy Kevin could be here to be part of it.

Kevin

Jake is the bride’s brother and one of her very best friends. Growing up so close in age, they’ve shared countless memories over the years, and their bond is truly something special (besides the few years they hated each other, but that's just typical sibling stuff). Jake has a big personality-he’s the life of the party wherever he goes and someone you can always count on for a good time. Having him stand by our side on this day means the world. 

Jacob

Malav also met Ryan during cardiology fellowship in Grand Rapids and has been part of his close-knit circle of friends ever since. He, along with Marvin and a few others, shares an ongoing group chat with Ryan that’s full of case discussions and all things cardiology—proof that their passion for their work never really turns off (work life balance!!!!) . Malav is a family man, with his wife Roni and their two children at the center of everything. We’re so happy to have him here celebrating with us.

Malav

Marvin met Ryan during their cardiology fellowship in Grand Rapids, where a shared passion for medicine quickly turned into a strong friendship. They can always be found enthusiastically “nerding out” over cases in their group chat. Marvin was also a familiar face during many of Ryan and the Kate’s early dates—often joining them for lunches or coffee in the hospital cafeteria. He’s incredibly kind, thoughtful, and deeply devoted to his family, which is something we admire so much. We feel lucky to know him.

Marvin

Wedding Party

Dress Code

Q + A

Set in Petoskey, Perry Hotel features accommodations with a fitness center and a garden. Featuring a 24-hour front desk, this property also provides guests with 2 restaurants. The accommodations provides evening entertainment and free WiFi. Guest rooms in the hotel are equipped with a flat-screen TV with cable channels. All rooms have a private bathroom. A à la carte breakfast is served each morning at the property. Perry Hotel offers a terrace. A selection of activities are offered in the area, such as skiing and cycling. For guests' convenience, the accommodations has a business center. Cherry Capital Airport is 53 mi from the property. Please call <a href="tel:2313474000" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">231-347-4000</a> to book within our room block. Ask for the Ber/Roberts Wedding. Of note, this room block has a two night minimum. You cannot book in our group on the website, call by phone.

Located in Petoskey and with Andrew J. Blackbird Museum reachable within 12 miles, Courtyard by Marriott Petoskey at Victories Square provides concierge services, non-smoking rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi throughout the property and a bar. Providing a restaurant, the property also features a fitness center, as well as an indoor pool and a hot tub. The property has a 24-hour front desk and a business center for guests. Monument Golf Course is 17 miles from the hotel. Pellston Regional Airport is 22 miles away. Link for Room Block:<a href="https://app.marriott.com/reslink?id=1765485785142&amp;key=GRP&amp;app=resvlink" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Book your group rate for Roberts/Ber Wedding</a> Of note, this room block has a two night minimum. https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1765485785142&amp;key=GRP&amp;app=resvlink&amp;_branch_match_id=1557405778238611256&amp;_branch_referrer=H4sIAAAAAAAAA8soKSkottLXTywo0MtNLCrKzC8p0UvOz9UvSi3OyczLtgdK2ALZZSCOWmaKraG5mamJham5hamhiZFadmqlrXtQgFpdUWpaKlB3Xnp8UlF%2BeXFqka1zRlF%2BbioATeGBWWAAAAA%3D

Courtyard by Marriott Petoskey at Victories Square

Located in Petoskey, 13 miles from Andrew J. Blackbird Museum, Inn at Bay Harbor, Autograph Collection provides accommodations with free bikes, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a fitness center. The hotel features a hot tub, a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi throughout the property. At the hotel you'll find a restaurant serving American cuisine. Monument Golf Course is 22 miles from Inn at Bay Harbor, Autograph Collection. Pellston Regional Airport is 24 miles away. This hotel does not offer room blocks for offsite weddings.

Inn at Bay Harbor

Holiday Inn Express Hotel &amp; Suites Petoskey by IHG is located in Petoskey, 11 miles from Andrew J. Blackbird Museum and 18 miles from Monument Golf Course. This 3-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, a concierge service and free WiFi. Guests also enjoy access to the indoor pool and fitness center, as well as the sauna and hot tub. Each room includes air conditioning, a safety deposit box and a flat-screen TV, and certain units at the hotel have a balcony. Holiday Inn Express Hotel &amp; Suites Petoskey by IHG has a sun terrace. Pellston Regional Airport is 22 miles away. Group Block Code: RBW Book by September 1st for group rate

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Petoskey by IHG

This Petoskey, Michigan hotel is minutes from the Bay Harbor Marina District and Petoskey Plastics Headquarters. The hotel offers a free breakfast and free high-speed internet access. All rooms at the Hampton Inn &amp; Suites Petoskey feature a coffee maker and cable TV. A work desk is included in every room. A fitness room and an indoor pool are on-site at the Petoskey Hampton Inn &amp; Suites hotel. The hotel boasts a multi-lingual staff and offers baggage storage. Coin laundry facilities are available on-site. Avalanche Bay Water Park and Nub’s Nob Ski Resort are within driving distance from the Petoskey, Michigan Hampton Inn &amp; Suites hotel. Mackinaw Island is just a short drive from the hotel. No group rate available

Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Petoskey

Facing the beachfront, Cottages at Bay Harbor offers 3-star accommodations in Petoskey and features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, fitness center and garden. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and an ATM, along with free WiFi. The resort has a private beach area. All guest rooms at the resort are equipped with a TV with cable channels and a kitchen. Rooms are complete with a private bathroom equipped with a bath, while certain units at Cottages at Bay Harbor also provide guests with a seating area. Guest rooms will provide guests with a microwave. The area is popular for skiing, and ski equipment rental is available at the accommodation. A business center and vending machines with snacks and drinks are available on site at Cottages at Bay Harbor. Andrew J. Blackbird Museum is 13 miles from the resort, while Monument Golf Course is 22 miles away. Pellston Regional Airport is 24 miles from the property. No room block or group rate available.

Cottages at Bay Harbor

Located off Highway 31, this Petoskey hotel overlooks the Grand Traverse Bay and features rooms with free WiFi and a cable TV. Odawa Casino, offers a free shuttle to the casino, which is just 3.4 miles away. A hairdryer and free bathroom amenities are provided in all rooms at the AmericInn Petoskey. Each room offers simple décor and includes a work desk. They also include a coffee maker, refrigerator and microwave. Free access to the relaxing spa bath and the indoor pool is provided to all guests from 9:00a.m. to 11:00p.m. Laundry facilities are available on site. A continental breakfast with both hot and cold items is served each morning at the AmericInn Petoskey. Guests can enjoy coffee, tea and hot cocoa in the lobby throughout the day. The Solanus Mission Beach is just a 5-minute drive from this hotel. Nub’s Nob Ski Resort is 11.5 miles away. No room block available for this hotel.

AmericInn by Wyndham Petoskey

Featuring a terrace, Apple Tree Inn; SureStay Collection by Best Western is located in Petoskey in the Michigan region, 10 miles from Andrew J. Blackbird Museum and 18 miles from Monument Golf Course. Featuring a garden, the 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. Guests can use the spa and wellness center with an indoor pool, fitness center, and hot tub, as well as free bikes. Each room is equipped with a closet and a flat-screen TV, and certain rooms at the hotel have a balcony. Guest rooms will provide guests with a fridge. Guests at Apple Tree Inn; SureStay Collection by Best Western will be able to enjoy activities in and around Petoskey, like skiing. Guests will find a 24-hour front desk, a shared lounge, a business center and laundry service at the property. Pellston Regional Airport is 21 miles away. Room Block available for single night. Group Block Code: RBW Book by September 1st for group rate.

Apple Tree Inn, SureStay Collection by Best Western

Travel

A famous scenic drive up M-119 through old forests and along the Lake Michigan shoreline. The full route is about 20 miles and takes roughly 40–50 minutes without stops, but most visitors spend 2–3 hours enjoying overlooks, local shops, and cafés along the way — especially beautiful in fall.

Tunnel of Trees Scenic Heritage Route

A year-round working farm tucked along the Tunnel of Trees with food, drinks, animals, seasonal events like Fall Fest on weekends (hayrides, pumpkin bowling, cider &amp; donuts), and a cozy market.

Pond Hill Farm

A classic local farmers market in downtown Boyne City with fresh produce, baked goods, artisan products, and more. The market runs on Saturdays (and often Wednesdays) mornings — a fun way to experience the Northern community and local flavors.&nbsp;

Boyne City Farmer's Market

An iconic Northern Michigan restaurant in Cross Village at the northern end of the Tunnel of Trees. Known for hearty Polish-inspired cuisine and views of Lake Michigan — a great stop on your scenic drive.

Legs Inn

Petoskey’s go-to coffee spot. Perfect for fueling up before exploring, grabbing breakfast with friends, or curing any post-celebration fatigue. (We recommend the bagel sandwiches.)

Roast & Toast

Petoskey’s beloved bluffside park with stunning views of Little Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan — especially at sunset. Bring a picnic, stroll the paths, or just relax and take in the bay breeze.&nbsp;

Sunset Park

A scenic, paved bike and walking trail that runs along Little Traverse Bay from Harbor Springs to Charlevoix. Rent a bike, go for a morning jog, or take a sunset stroll along the water — it’s one of the easiest ways to soak in those Northern Michigan views.

Little Traverse Wheelway

A seasonal scenic farm market in Petoskey offering handcrafted food items, local produce, gifts, and Amish-made goods.

Coveyou Scenic Farm Market : Petoskey's Historic Organic Farm

A beloved fall tradition held each October in downtown Charlevoix, where the streets come alive with a festive farmers market, local food booths, tons of apple-themed treats, and a big arts &amp; crafts show. Think fresh cider, pies, pumpkins, handmade goods, and fun for all ages — a perfect way to enjoy the season and explore a beautiful lakeside town.

Katelyn & Ryan

Katelyn & Ryan

Photos