Stone Crest Venue

Wedding Day

Ceremony & Reception

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Hanover

Hanover, KS Ceremony 

Winter

Our Wedding

Our StoryWe first met in 2007 through work (thank you, Gary Green Realtors!). At the time, we were simply professional colleagues—respectful, friendly, and very much in our own lanes. We worked together for only a few months, then life moved on. Our connection survived in the background through the occasional large company event… and, most reliably, John’s annual Facebook message wishing Leslie a happy birthday. (If you know John, you know this is one of his signature moves—and one we all appreciate.)Fast forward to 2013, when life surprised us by crossing our paths again. Our personal worlds looked very different from how they had years earlier, so we met up with friends for a cocktail to catch up and properly get reacquainted. At the time, John was living in Missouri, and Leslie was in Houston—geographically inconvenient in a way that felt… perfect. Neither of us was looking for a relationship. Dating was optional at best. But having a good friend to talk to? That felt easy.Then John kept showing up in Houston for business. Coincidence? Maybe. Maybe he was a little smitten. Since he kept showing up, Leslie kept saying yes. (She was definitely smitten.) Slowly, effortlessly, our lives began to stick together. A few casual dates turned into daily conversations, which turned into building a life side by side. It is often said that the best relationships start with a good friendship. Distance made this possible. Our daily conversations allowed us to learn about each other; our likes, dislikes, hopes, dreams, values, and most of all, why we were meant for one another. We are a living example of One plus One equaling Three; Good on our own, but so much more Together.Along the way, we’ve had the privilege of watching three incredible kids grow from hormonal chaos into truly amazing adults—with huge hearts and even bigger futures. We’ve built a life rooted in love, laughter, travel, and time spent with the people who matter most. Any spare funds have always gone toward making memories, preferably somewhere new, and almost always with friends or family close by.This wedding isn’t just a celebration of our commitment to each other, because we choose to live that commitment every day, it’s a celebration of you. Our friends and family mean everything to us. You’ve witnessed our journey: the hardships and struggles, the sacrifices and strengths. You’ve cheered us on and supported us emotionally through this big, beautiful life.So today, this celebration is for each of you.Thank you for loving us so well. 💛

Our Story

Photos

Wedding Party

It's a New Year's Eve Wedding! Dress up and have fun! Be festive and come ready to celebrate with us. Ladies, think cocktail or long gowns, sparkles or sequins, colors or prints. Be you and be unique. You are beautiful. If that outfit makes you feel like a million bucks -- wear it! Gents, be sharp &amp; dapper. Be comfortable and compliment your beautiful date. Cowboy hats are welcome, and starched jeans are acceptable if that suits your style, but please pair them with a jacket.

NEED SOME IDEAS?What Is Festive Attire?Festive attire requires a cheerful—yet polished—appearance. “It usually strikes a balance between casual and formal, encouraging guests to dress in a way that reflects the celebratory nature of the occasion but without going overboard,” says Polden. “Festive attire invites guests to show off their personal style.” ..festive attire allows for more flexibility. “This dress code can be defined as tastefully experimental,” says Danielle Paul, a senior stylist at Angel Rivera Atelier. “It infuses fun with flair and embodies the spirit of the celebration.”Festive Attire for Women Festive attire provides an opportunity to experiment with bright colors, interesting patterns, and unexpected textures. Choose a cocktail, midi, or mini dress—or turn to a jumpsuit or stylish separates—in a vibrant color or print with whimsical details like sequins, ruffles, puffy sleeves, bows, or feathers.“Accessorize an outfit with standout statement jewelry like chandelier or drop earrings, a bold necklace, or a stack of bracelets,” Pierre-Louis says. “A few well-chosen rings or a large, single cocktail ring can add a touch of sparkle without overwhelming a look. Consider a stylish clutch in a coordinating metal or contrasting color.” Micaela Erlanger, a celebrity fashion stylist based in New York City, suggests considering a luxurious fabric, such as velvet, jacquard, satin, or lace. Elevate the look with strappy sandals, pumps, block heels or embellished flats. “For fall or winter, I love a metallic pleated skirt and a bold colored top paired with a dainty metallic heel and mirror tile bag,” Paul says. “For spring or summer, you can’t go wrong with a sleeveless silk dress in a color like canary yellow with a gold ballet flat.”Festive Attire for Men A well-tailored suit that features a jewel tone, interesting fabric, or pattern is the perfect ensemble for such a dress code. “Avoid overly formal tuxedos unless specified and skip dull or too-business-like attire—this isn’t a board meeting,” says Erlanger. If you’re wearing a charcoal-colored or black jacket, consider a dress shirt in a subtle pastel or jewel tone, and choose a tie or bow tie with a pattern or a festive color. Reach for polished leather dress shoes like oxfords, loafers, boots or monk-straps. “For extra flair, throw on a pair of patterned socks that subtly peek out,” adds Pierre-Louis. If a colored suit seems too bold, consider a bright accessory. “Add personality with a vibrant pocket square, cufflinks, or a tie clip,” says Pierre-Louis. Paul also suggests integrating a pin or broach into your look. .

Dress Code

Located in McKinney, 17 miles from Historic Downtown Plano, Fairfield by Marriott Inn &amp; Suites Dallas McKinney has accommodations with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness center and a shared lounge. The property is around 30 miles from Mockingbird Station, 30 miles from Preston Center and 31 miles from Southern Methodist University. The property provides a 24-hour front desk, a business center and currency exchange for guests. Continental and American breakfast options are available at the hotel. Guests at Fairfield by Marriott Inn &amp; Suites Dallas McKinney will be able to enjoy activities in and around McKinney, like hiking, fishing and cycling. Meadows Museum is 31 miles from the accommodation, while Gerald J. Ford Stadium is 31 miles from the property. Dallas Love Field Airport is 35 miles away.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Dallas McKinney

Holiday Inn &amp; Suites McKinney - N Allen by IHG has a fitness center, shared lounge, a restaurant and bar in McKinney. This 3-star hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi. The property is non-smoking throughout and is located 12 miles from Historic Downtown Plano. Some rooms also feature a kitchenette with a fridge and a microwave. All rooms in the hotel are equipped with a flat-screen TV and free toiletries. A business center and vending machines with snacks and drinks are available on site at Holiday Inn &amp; Suites McKinney - N Allen by IHG. Mockingbird Station is 25 miles from the accommodation, while Preston Center is 26 miles from the property. Dallas Love Field Airport is 30 miles away.

Holiday Inn & Suites McKinney - N Allen by IHG

Located in McKinney and with Historic Downtown Plano reachable within 13 miles, Sheraton McKinney has concierge services, non-smoking rooms, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi throughout the property and a fitness center. This 4-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. Guests can use a bar. Breakfast is available, and includes buffet, à la carte and American options. At the hotel you'll find a restaurant serving American cuisine. Vegetarian, dairy-free and vegan options can also be requested. Sheraton McKinney has a sun terrace. A business center and vending machines with snacks and drinks are available on site at the accommodation. Mockingbird Station is 26 miles from Sheraton McKinney, while Preston Center is 26 miles from the property. Dallas Love Field Airport is 30 miles away.

Sheraton McKinney Hotel

Grand Hotel is located in McKinney, 14 miles from Historic Downtown Plano and 28 miles from Mockingbird Station. With a fitness center, the 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. Guests can enjoy American and Steakhouse dishes at the restaurant or have a drink at the bar. At the hotel, the rooms have a closet. All rooms in Grand Hotel are equipped with a flat-screen TV and free toiletries. Staff speak English and Spanish at the reception. Preston Center is 28 miles from the accommodation, while Southern Methodist University is 28 miles from the property. Dallas Love Field Airport is 32 miles away.

The Grand Hotel

Located within 12 miles of Historic Downtown Plano and 26 miles of Mockingbird Station, Home2 Suites By Hilton McKinney has rooms in McKinney. Featuring an outdoor swimming pool, the 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi. Meadows Museum is 26 miles from the hotel and Gerald J. Ford Stadium is 26 miles away. At the hotel, the rooms include a desk. All rooms in Home2 Suites By Hilton McKinney are equipped with a TV and free toiletries. Guests at the accommodation can enjoy a continental breakfast. The reception at Home2 Suites By Hilton McKinney can provide tips on the area. Preston Center is 26 miles from the hotel, while Southern Methodist University is 26 miles from the property. Dallas Love Field Airport is 30 miles away.

Home2 Suites by Hilton McKinney

Amenities Enjoy recreation amenities such as an outdoor pool or take in the view from a garden. This Victorian bed & breakfast also features complimentary wireless internet access, a fireplace in the lobby, and a picnic area. Dining Wrap up your day with a drink at the bar/lounge. A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Business Amenities Featured amenities include complimentary wired internet access, a computer station, and microwave in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite. Rooms Make yourself at home in one of the 3 individually decorated guestrooms, featuring refrigerators and plasma televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and digital programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with bathtubs or showers feature designer toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include desks and microwaves, and housekeeping is provided on a limited basis. Attractions Distances are displayed to the nearest 0.1 mile and kilometer. Heard Craig Center for the Arts - 0.9 km / 0.6 mi Walls of Clay - 1.1 km / 0.7 mi Erwin Park Hike & Bike Trail - 1.1 km / 0.7 mi McKinney Repertory Theatre - 1.2 km / 0.8 mi Collin County History Museum - 1.4 km / 0.9 mi Franconia Brewing Company - 1.5 km / 0.9 mi Chestnut Square Historic Village - 1.7 km / 1.1 mi Oak Hollow Golf Course - 2.5 km / 1.6 mi Collin College - 3.3 km / 2 mi Pecan Grove Memorial Cemetery - 3.3 km / 2.1 mi Towne Lake Park - 3.6 km / 2.3 mi Cinemark North McKinney - 5.5 km / 3.4 mi Collin County Courthouse - 5.7 km / 3.6 mi Medical City McKinney - 6.8 km / 4.2 mi Baylor Scott & White Hospital - 7.3 km / 4.6 mi The nearest airports are: Love Field Airport (DAL) - 57 km / 35.4 mi Dallas-Fort Worth Intl. Airport (DFW) - 59.6 km / 37 mi Location Located in McKinney, Red Gate Inn is within a 15-minute walk of Heard Craig Center for the Arts and Walls of Clay. This bed & breakfast is 0.7 mi (1.2 km) from Erwin Park Hike & Bike Trail and 0.9 mi (1.4 km) from McKinney Repertory Theatre. Headline Near Heard Craig Center for the Arts

Red Gate Inn

Places to Stay

Allen Americans Hockey

<a href="https://pinstackbowl.com/locations/allen-north-texas/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">BOWLING &amp; GAMES! </a>

PINSTACK

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Leslie & John

Leslie & John

Registry

Thank you for blessing us & others. Our DJ, Caterers, and Dance Instructor each have non-profit initiatives that they have created to bless others. Please consider supporting them by clicking on the Cash Funds link below and learn more about each of their foundations!