Venue Blue

Welcome Party by the Bay

Brengman Family Wines

Wedding Day in the Vines

CEREMONY

Cocktail Hour

Reception

Clinch Park

Beachside Bagels

Our Wedding

For out of town guests who are flying in for the wedding, Traverse City has its own airport, TVC, which hosts major airlines like Delta, United, and American. This is 10 minutes from the city center (where our recommended hotels are) and 20 minutes from the wedding venue. Alternatively, you can fly into Grand Rapids (GRR), which is just over a 2 hour drive to Traverse City, or Detroit (DTW), which is a 4 hour drive to Traverse City.

Cherry Capital Airport

Downtown Traverse City

Use the Group Code and Group Link below: Group Code: VW857Group Link: <a href="https://be.synxis.com/?hotel=62003&amp;chain=16552&amp;Group=VW857" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://be.synxis.com/?hotel=62003&amp;chain=16552&amp;Group=VW857</a> This option is ideal for those who want to be in the heart of Traverse City - easy to walk to the local shops and the downtown beach.

Park Place Hotel and Conference Center

Bride &amp; groom are staying here and the wedding shuttle pickup will be from here. Located in Downtown Traverse City's warehouse district within walking distance to the beach and Front Street with an amazing rooftop bar overlooking Lake Michigan!

Hotel Indigo Traverse City by IHG

On the Beach (East Grand Traverse Bay)

Mention the VanderBeek-Phipps wedding party. Brand new hotel on East Bay - great for those looking for beachtime.

The Baywatch Resort

Mention the VanderBeek-Phipps wedding party. Beachfront resort on East Bay with outdoor pool and jacuzzis in your room - 5 minutes drive from the heart of Traverse City.

Pointes North Beachfront Resort Hotel

Beachfront resort on East Bay - 5 minutes drive from the heart of Traverse City.

Parkshore Resort

Leelanau Peninsula

Located in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes - Empire Bluff and Downtown Empire (the famous Grocer's Daughter chocolate and Asparagus Festival take place here!). 35 minute drive from Downtown Traverse City and our wedding venue.

Cottonwood Inn Bed & Breakfast

Fountain Point is a historic northern Michigan family summer resort (founded in 1889!) located right on the shore of Lake Leelanau. It is convenient for those who would like to explore all of Leelanau wine country, along with Leland, Suttons Bay, and Northport. It is 20 minutes from the wedding venue and 30 minutes north of Traverse City.

Fountain Point Resort

Located in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes and Glen Arbor - great for those who want to take advantage of hiking and the home of the original Cherry Republic. 43 minute drive from Downtown Traverse City and our wedding venue.

Sleeping Bear Inn

Beautiful historic hotel on the Leland River!

The Riverside Inn

Airbnb & VRBO

We also recommend searching <a href="https://www.theknot.com/gs/dashboard/preview/pages/99051997/paragraph-items/www.airbnb.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">AirBnB</a> and <a href="https://www.vrbo.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">VRBO</a>, which both offer several rental options in Traverse City (city center) and Leelanau Peninsula (where wedding is) in Suttons Bay, Leland, Cedar, Glen Arbor, and Northport.

Travel & Accommodations

On the map, you'll see our wedding venue, welcome party, and post-wedding celebration locations, along with some of our favorite places for you to enjoy when you are in town: Grand Traverse Lighthouse (Leelanau Peninsula)-Historic lighthouse at the tip of the peninsula-Explore original keeper quarters + climb the tower-Beautiful shoreline and sunset viewsPersonal ties: Brittany volunteers here every summer as a lighthouse keeper. Her business logo and name are inspired by this. Dune Bird Winery (Leelanau Peninsula)-A winery and coffee shop - a great stop on your way to/from the Grand Traverse LighthousePersonal ties: During Scott's first visit to Brittany for a cold wintry weekend in February, he was all in for the adventure to snowshoe around the vineyard with all of her friends for her birthday. Brittany knew he was a keeper to go along with her crazy ideas and meet her friends. Cherry Republic (Glen Arbor)- The Willy Wonka of cherries - learn about Michigan's tart cherry capital of the world and try every cherry product you can imagine (sweet and savory treats, spa products, wine, and beer, even whitefish chowder!)-A great place for free samples and souvenirs to bring home. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (Leelanau)-Iconic Lake Michigan dunes and scenic overlooks-Optional dune climb for a challenge-Scenic drive available for easier access-One of the most beautiful landscapes in the MidwestPersonal ties: Brittany and Scott went on their first winter hike together here - at night in snowshoes! Both have gone on many hikes with their families and friends here over the years. Farm Club (Leelanau)-A Grand Traverse area favorite - a farm-to-table restaurant, brewery, and market that will be blooming with sunflowers during our wedding.-A must-see for foodies curious about our local cuisine! Sleders Family Tavern (Slabtown)- Michigan's oldest standing restaurant- Kiss the moose while you're there- Try the amazing olive burgers, perch, and a boot of beer- Make sure to stop at Slabtown Cookies and Dairy Lodge while you're in the neighborhood!Personal ties: Brittany lived in Slabtown for five years - the neighborhood will always be special to her! Chateau Chantal (Old Mission Peninsula)-Stunning vineyard views of both West Bay and East Bay-Often hosting fun tasting and live music events - check the schedule during your visitPersonal ties: Brittany credits Chateau Chantal with starting her love of the Michigan wine experience. This has been one of her favorite business clients over the years as well. TART Trail (from East Bay to West Bay up Leelanau Peninsula to Northport!)-Winding along the shores of Grand Traverse Bay, these well-maintained trails are perfect for biking, walking, or a casual morning stroll.-Take in waterfront views, stop by local wineries, beaches, and cafes, and soak up the fresh Up North air.-Bike rentals and tours are available at Brick Wheels in Downtown Traverse City and Suttons Bay Bikes on Leelanau Peninsula.Personal ties: Brittany and Scott have run many miles on these trails over the years. Brittany has enjoyed bikes rides between wineries. Timber Ridge Recreation Area (Traverse City)-Extensive trails for hiking, biking, and trail running-Peaceful, wooded terrain with some elevationPersonal ties: Scott grew up camping here and Brittany has participated in multiple community events here from the Traverse City Trail Fest to Winter Trails Days.

In-Town EventsDowntown Street Sale (August 7, 8am-9pm)-Longstanding Traverse City tradition (since 1958)-Front Street closes to traffic; shops extend into the street-All-day shopping, perfect to experience before the Welcome Party starts at 6:30pm Friday Night Live (August 7, 6–9pm)-Free downtown block party with live music, performers, and food vendors-Walkable, lively, and very “Traverse City summer”-Enjoy live music around the Welcome Party! Grand Traverse Bay Watershed Fundraiser Swim (August 8 – Morning)-Community swim supporting clean water initiatives-Active and meaningful way to engage with the region - get your fitness in before the wedding or support the swim by watching and donating from the Open Space!Personal ties: Brittany used to serve on the board and volunteer for this event. She'd be there if she wasn't getting married!

Favorite BeachesBryant Park Beach (Downtown Traverse City)→ A beautiful, slightly quieter beach with shade trees and picnic areas—perfect for relaxing or families.Haserot Beach (Old Mission Peninsula)→ A peaceful hidden gem with soft sand and crystal-clear water.Mission Point Lighthouse Beach (Old Mission Peninsula)→ A picturesque spot by the iconic lighthouse—great for photos and exploring.Van's Beach (Leelanau Peninsula)→ A laid-back favorite near Fishtown with beautiful turquoise water.Good Harbor Bay Beach (Leelanau Peninsula)→ Wide sandy shoreline with stunning views of the Manitou Islands—perfect for a full beach day.Esch Road Beach (Leelanau Peninsula)→ Where a creek meets Lake Michigan—ideal for wading, floating, and sunsets.North Bar Lake (Leelanau Peninsula)→ A unique, shallow lake connected to Lake Michigan—great for a calm, warm swim.

ExperiencesKayak, Bike &amp; Brew Tour-Guided combo experience: paddle, bike, and brewery stops with gear included-Social, active, and uniquely Traverse City-Calm, beginner-friendly waterPersonal ties: Brittany and Scott recommend this for our adventure-seeking and beer-loving friends! Traverse City Wine &amp; Beer Tours-For a fun and easy way to explore the best of Traverse City wine country and breweries, we recommend booking with Traverse City Wine and Beer Tours. Enjoy a relaxed, guided tour to some of our favorite places across the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas.Personal ties: Fun fact - Brittany has a chauffeur's license and was a driver/tour guide for this company one summer when she lived in Traverse City! Discovery Cruise-Relaxed sightseeing cruise on Grand Traverse Bay-Great for sunset or group outings-Indoor options if it rains.Personal ties: Brittany knows and admires the owner and has been on many community sails with Discovery Cruise. Nauticat Cruise-Intimate sailing experience on a classic yacht-Ideal for a romantic or double-date evening or a night of dancing on the waterPersonal ties: Brittany has gone on many sails including yoga and sunset dance cruises - try the Cat Nip drink! Pirate’s Cove-Classic, themed mini golf-Perfect for families, or a date and conveniently located near many of the wedding hotelsPersonal ties: Scott grew up playing here and Brittany enjoys going when her nieces and nephews are in town!

RestaurantsLil Bo’s (Downtown Traverse City)→ Known for olive burgersLittle Fleet (Downtown Traverse City)→ Outdoor food truck park + drinks + social vibeThe Cheese Shanty (Leland)→ Iconic, simple, must-try sandwiches. Brittany's favorite is the "North Shore!"Sisters (Downtown Traverse City)→ Great brunch and the best mimosa and Bloody Mary flightsApache Trout Grill (Leelanau)→ Waterfront dining staple with amazing local fish dishes Sweets StopsGrocer’s Daughter Chocolate (Empire)→ Artisan, ethically sourced chocolateMoomers Ice Cream (West Traverse City)→ Nationally recognized ice cream. Try the Cherries Moo-bilee!Dairy Lodge (Slabtown)→ Classic roadside soft serve. Perfect finish to your dinner at Sleder's.Bardon’s Wonder Freeze (East Traverse City)→ Nostalgic summer stop BreweriesLake Ann Brewing→ The best live music and classic beers in the countrysideJolly Pumpkin → Great sours + views from Old Mission PeninsulaStone Hound→ Great patio on East Bay + foodHop Lot→ Rated 2nd best brewery in the country, fun ambiance near the woods with firepitsLoco Boys→ Delicious tacos and beer varietyWorkshop Brewing→ Industrial vibe, close to the Downtown Traverse City beach)Silver Spruce→ The best "pure" German style beers, a repurposed old Family Video store!) Wineries &amp; CiderMawby→ Amazing sparkling wines and cheese dipsSuttons Bay Ciders→ Try the cider flights (especially cherry salsa) and enjoy the best views of West BayBowers Harbor→ Charming classic winery - Brittany bought her infamous barrel here!Bonobo→ Trendy + social, convenient to Downtown Traverse City, owned by Carter Oosterhouse and Amy Smart!Mari Vineyards→ Italian-style + stunning setting, known for great red wines

Things to Do

What Brott Us Together

I’ve always held onto this belief in the invisible threads that gently pull people together, weaving a tapestry whose beauty has yet to be perceived. The belief that any day could be the day I unknowingly cross paths with the love of my life. It’s what propelled me to hold onto hope that my love story would be written even though multiple chapters in my life had already been written.On June 22, 2022 the first of those invisible threads was sewn. I was out on a long run while on vacation with family in Traverse City. It’s a place close to my heart that I grew up camping and vacationing at. I had run along the shoreline most of the run, but something drew me to detour north and turn into one of the neighborhoods. I remember straining to run up the incredibly steep hill on the street, but I kept pushing. I reversed course downhill, heart pumping, and legs churning faster than I thought possible. It was mile 10 of my run, but I felt like I was on cloud 9 as I took in the road ahead of me. Little did I know that I just ran down the exact street Brittany was living on at the time, passing in front of her apartment on the way up and back.Two and a half years later hope arose during a time of great uncertainty for me. My friend Sarah had this lightbulb of epiphany that she knew the perfect girl for me. She proceeded to tell me about a cute, vibrant, kind soul with incredible energy and drive. I thought it sounded too good to be true, but when I was connected with Britany and met her on our first date at Candy Bar, she surpassed even my rosiest of visions. Over the course of 3 consecutive days of dates my heart and world opened up. I could tell this wasn’t just me being a hopeless romantic, there was truth in the bond I was quickly forming with Brittany. Within 3 weeks my heart spoke faster than my brain and I told her I loved her. Within 3 months I was helping her move down to metro Detroit for work. Within 3 seasons I knew I wanted to spend the rest of the seasons of my life with her.On New Year’s Eve while in Punta Cana I asked Brittany to marry me. I told her I wanted to watch the last sunset of the year with her on the beach and get a picture together. It was drizzling to my initial dismay, but the light rain during the day cleared the beach so that we could have the moment to ourselves. As Brittany questioned how my camera had a 30 second timer, I proceeded to tell her the following. “The weather may not be perfect with it cloudy and drizzling, but there are no cloudy days when I’m with you. I chose to do this by the water because for so many years I felt adrift out at sea, but like a lighthouse your light led me home to safer shores. Will you brighten my universe for the rest of time and marry me.”Our love story is one that I can’t wait to continue writing with you Brittany. On 8/8/2026 we will celebrate all the threads that have joined to create this beautiful tapestry we call life.

FROM SCOTT'S PERSPECTIVE

After years of dating (and too many stories to count that kept my friends and family entertained), my life changed in January 2025.I had just taken on a new role with AquaAction, a water innovation nonprofit originally based in Montreal, with the exciting opportunity to establish its U.S. headquarters in Detroit. This news was music to the ears of some of my closest friends in the Detroit area, who were thrilled at the idea of me moving back to town. My college roommate, Chami, shared the update with our mutual friend Sarah, who immediately responded, “I have the perfect person for Brittany.”Sarah passed my number along to Scott. Scott reached out while I was on a business trip to Phoenix, and when I flew back to Detroit for a few days of work, we went on our first date at Candy Bar. My initial impression was that he was kind, cute, and a little shy. Most importantly, I felt calm spending time with him — something I hadn’t experienced on previous dates.The next night, we met at Royal Oak Run Club. I was running late, and instead of joining the big group, we ended up running together, just the two of us. Somewhere during that run, I remember thinking, “Wow… this guy is really cute.”Our third date was the next night at Social in Birmingham, where we had espresso martinis — now one of our favorite cocktails together. Scott invited me back to his house afterward for a Last Word, a classic Detroit cocktail. His house was spotless, well-decorated, and welcoming, and I remember thinking, “Wow — he’s not only cute, but neat, organized, and has great taste.”When I drove back to Traverse City, I found myself thinking, “When will I see him next?” I mentioned that I had a Policy Gala coming up that weekend, and without hesitation, he said, “I’ll go if it’s important to you.” That phrase has become one of my favorites — and something Scott has consistently said and lived by throughout our relationship.Instead, I said, “Actually… why don’t you come up for my birthday weekend? I’m going snowshoeing between wineries with friends.” He immediately said yes.Ten days later, Scott came to Traverse City and tried snowshoeing for the first time. He dove right in, fit in seamlessly with my friends, and embraced the adventure wholeheartedly. His willingness to try new things with me quickly became one of my favorite things about him.Over the next several months, we spent countless weekends together between Royal Oak, Detroit, and Traverse City — trying new restaurants, running together, hiking, and building something that felt easy, steady, and joyful.In May, I moved to metro Detroit, and we lived just 15 minutes apart. This marked a new chapter of regular weeknights together: cooking meals, doing chores, meeting each other’s families, and settling into everyday life. We enjoyed exploring the suburbs of Detroit through concerts, new restaurants, BBQs, parks, Tigers games, football games with friends, and running the Crim Race, our first race together. We also spent many weekends in Traverse City to get our nature fix. We took our first vacation together — glamping on a blueberry farm near Saugatuck and continued making memories that felt both exciting and grounding.That fall, Scott supported me through marathon training and surprised me at the Detroit Marathon with a sign that said, “You’re my soulmate.” That was the moment I knew things were getting more serious. Soon after, we both faced family health emergencies, and the way we supported one another — staying calm, showing up fully, and being an endless source of love — made it clear to me that Scott was the one.Despite end-of-year work stress for both of us, we made time to enjoy the holidays with family and friends and learned we both are very festive. We hosted our first holiday party together and made a great team. In November, Scott asked me to go ring shopping. A month later, on our trip to the Dominican Republic — our first international trip together — Scott proposed to me on the beach on New Year’s Eve. We had just enjoyed a spa afternoon together and it was raining on the beach, which was symbolic for us. He started the proposal with "there are no clouds when I'm with you." I feel the same when I'm with him. Regardless of circumstances out of our control, we remain a constant source of love and calm for each other.We can’t wait to celebrate our future with you in Northern Michigan, a place that has been incredibly special to both of us and our families. Scott grew up camping in Traverse City with his family. After high school, I spent my summer vacations in Traverse City, discovered my love of wine with my mom, and eventually lived there for five years. While there, I joined the nonprofit world, started my own business, and learned how to enjoy the outdoors all four seasons, which Scott and I now do together throughout Michigan.We look forward to seeing you in August and sharing our special day with you in a place that has shaped much of who we are — as individuals and now as one.

From Brittany's Perspective

Our Love Story

Representing our friends:

From preschool to lifelong best friend. They started a tuba band at age 5 - ask Chelsea (aka Ralphie!).

Chelsea Raby

Jake is Scott's oldest friend, with a bond dating back to 6th grade.  He may have puked on his floor the first time he stayed at Jake's house, but no gut check is needed to know that he’s a true friend.

Jake Pauley

The matchmaker behind Scott and Brittany. Brittany's ride or die since moving back to metro Detroit in 2025.

Sarah Bugbee

Best friends since college -  808 roommates - Chami always gets Brittany on the dance floor, enjoys a good drink, and reminds Brittany to be sexy.

Chami Cornish

Whelp if you need Yelp help, call Chad.  There’s no litigating his restaurant expertise or compassion for his friends.

Chad Duschinsky

Brittany's Traverse City neighbor turned bestie through years of morning runs processing through life together and adventures stretching all the way to Morocco!

Erin Roeck

Brittany's Traverse City ride or die - can't go a day without a good adventure and a good laugh with Kelsey.

Kelsey Fox

King of hype up speeches and a captivating teller of tales.  Matt knows how to brighten even your cloudiest of days.

Matt Motley

College best friends - 808 roommates - the most loyal friend and biggest Michigan fan!

Stacey Smoler

Brittany's favorite foodie, cheese-loving, adventure seeking friend in Traverse City who somehow brings Brittany calm while inspiring her to go on some of the best adventures of her life - all the way to Tuscan wine country!

Leah Dodge

A picture is worth a thousand words, but sometimes thousands of words exchanged are worth only one photo together when you’re men who are bad at photographing moments.  He's the tallest one in the group here. There’s no picturing a life without Connor as my friend though.

Connor Zagata

The only Buckeye allowed at the wedding - Brittany & Erin met studying abroad in Spain in 2011 and through living in Cleveland to start their careers - they have remained close through years of sharing dating ups and downs, career changes, and  more adventures together!

Erin Shoykhet

Brittany's love of cooking, hiking, and crafting (including virtual crafts together throughout the pandemic!) came from her time in Greenville with Alissa, who she instantly became close with over being from Michigan and speaking French.

Alissa Hebert

Pi Phi sisters who met in freshman college English class - Melissa's unwavering support and friendship throughout Brittany's career and life's ups and downs have meant the world to her.

Melissa Wing

Collin knows how to drum up support for his friends.  His friendship is as steady as his rhythm. Thank God he's standing at the end of this photo.

Scott & Brittany

Scott & Brittany

Wedding Party

Representing our friends:

Representing our families: