The Cottage

Prelude to Forever

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Wedding Weekend Wrap-Up

Our Wedding

∞ Our Story ∞

&#8734; Written by the Universe &#8734;
 
We met when we were just kids, probably around nine years old, at summer camp. We were young, wild, and carefree, but something about that summer was different. There was an instant connection, a spark neither of us could explain. It was as if our souls recognized each other long before our hearts even knew what love was.
 
As the years passed, life did what life does. We grew up, we changed, and yet somehow, the universe kept finding ways to bring us back together. We crossed paths again as teenagers, once around 14 or 15, and again at 17 or 18. But at that time, we were still trying to figure out who we were. We were young and adventurous, living fast, and learning as we went. Parents moved, schools changed, and fate gave us a little more time apart to grow into the people we were meant to be.
 
Years went by. We lived, loved, learned, and built lives of our own. Children were born, lessons were learned, hearts were healed, and through it all, we were being shaped and molded for something greater.
 
Then, just a few days before Valentine&#8217;s Day in 2024, the universe whispered again. A message popped up on Facebook:
&#8220;Hey, remember me?&#8221;
 
My heart skipped a beat. Of course, I remembered. We met up, and the moment our eyes met, it was like time rewound and the world stood still. The same feeling of peace, familiarity, and &#8220;rightness&#8221; came flooding back, only stronger. We had both grown, both evolved, but that same unshakable connection was still there, deeper than ever. From that moment, we were inseparable.
 
Then, on July 5, 2025, the universe unfolded its final plan. During a family trip to Maine, we hiked up a mountain surrounded by trees, water, and endless sky. At the top stood a rickety old guard tower. We climbed to the top, hearts pounding, laughter echoing through the air, and there, with his family in on the surprise, he asked me to spend forever with him.
 
Time froze. The mountains, the wind, the sky, all bore witness as I said yes to the love that had been written in the stars since we were kids.
 
Looking back, it&#8217;s clear now that every twist, every turn, every heartbreak and reunion was leading us right here, to this moment, to this love, to this forever.
 
&#8734; Because some souls are simply destined to find their way back home &#8734;

∞ Our Timeline ∞

Our Timeline

∞ The Wedding Party ∞

(Mugshots)

REVERAND RONALD BURRIS

KRISTEN DILICH

MATTHEW BATES

SAGE BURRIS

AMY WALTERS

Meet The Wedding Party

∞ The Cottage ∞

Built by our grandfather in 1979, the Wedding Venue features a hand-crafted cottage sitting on eight private acres of Birch and Pinewood forest, overlooking the crystal-clear waters of Lake Hebron in Monson, Maine. 75 feet from the shoreline, the cottage blends rustic craftsmanship with the peaceful solitude of the North Woods - a true reflection of Maine’s wild beauty. Monson itself carries a proud history as the heart of Maine’s slate industry, where hard work and craftsmanship shaped both the land and the people. Those same values are built into this cottage - every beam, board, and view tells a story of family, perseverance, and simple joy. Guests are invited to share in that story - to be a part of a living legacy, rooted deep in the Maine Woods, wake up to the call of loons, wander through acres of quiet forest, paddle across the calm lake at sunset, and experience the same serenity our family has cherished for generations.

∞ Experience Wilderness ∞

The Experience

Travel

Below is a list of hotels/motels/inns/hostels/yurts/cabins that are located fairly close to the Wedding Venue. We hope many of our guests are able to make their own arrangements, however the Bride and Groom may be able to assist with certain accommodations. You are not required to book any of these hotels listed. These accommodations are listed in order of proximity to the Venue from top to bottom.

**PLEASE NOTE**

IF YOU ARE NEEDING ASSISTANCE WITH LODGING AND ARE OPEN TO SHARED AIRBNB TYPE ACCOMODATIONS (Private room for each couple), PLEASE LET THE BRIDE AND GROOM KNOW, DEPENDING ON OUR GUESTS' NEEDS, THE BRIDE AND GROOM MAY BOOK GROUP AIRBNB'S. ﻿PLEASE SPEAK WITH THE BRIDE OR GROOM PRIOR TO BOOKING ANY ACCOMODATIONS. AT THIS TIME, THERE ARE NO ARRANGED SHUTTLES FOR TRANSPORT TO THE AIRPORT, HOTEL, OR VENUE. UNLESS OTHER ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE WITH THE BRIDE AND GROOM, GUESTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR TRANSPORTATION TO/FROM THE AIRPORT AND THEIR LODGING. PLEASE CHECK BACK FREQUENTLY AS TRAVEL/LODGING ASSISTANCE MAY CHANGE ACCORDING TO RSVP.

Local Lodging

DISTANCE TO WEDDING VENUE - 1.8 MILES We offer comfortable rooms and hot showers; bed linens, pillows, blankets, soap,&nbsp;shampoo and towels are provided. WiFi onsite.​ Rooms:Private Single/Double&nbsp;$70.00/nightPrivate Triple $100.00/night&nbsp;Glamping $70 safari style tents with beds&nbsp;and electricityBunk House $30.00/nightCamping $15.00pp/nightShower Only $5.00​Day Pass $15 (includes shower) Laundry Service:We have laundry facilities for guests. Laundry (wash/dry/detergent) is $5&nbsp;per load. Meals:Breakfast $11​​You don't want to miss this breakfast, it's a Shaw's tradition!&nbsp;You will not leave hungry!Dinners (occasionally) $12-15 BOOKING:<a href="http://www.shawshikerhostel.com/home.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://www.shawshikerhostel.com/home.html</a>

Shaw's Hiker Hostel

DISTANCE TO WEDDING VENUE - 2.2 MILES Reconnect with nature at our unforgettable "Canvas Yurt Tent" escape! Our Canvas Yurt Tents are located around the shores of Lake Hebron in Monson Maine. Several to choose from, including one floating on the lake! All glamping tent locations come with showers, beds, and toilet/wash facilities. INFO: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087463718525" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087463718525</a> BOOK ON AIR BNB:<a href="https://www.airbnb.com/users/show/357285571" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.airbnb.com/users/show/357285571</a>

Oak Grove Canvas Tents

DISTANCE TO WEDDING VENUE - 5.5 MILES Nestled deep within whispering pine forests, our Next Chapter Cabins offer the perfect balance of wilderness seclusion and small-town convenience! Located on Turning Page Farm Brewery, just a short walk through the woods from our brewery and creamery, these cabins provide an immersive forest experience while being just 4 miles from the charming town of Monson. Take it easy at this unique and tranquil getaway! BOOKING:<a href="https://www.nextchaptercabins.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.nextchaptercabins.com/</a>

Next Chapter Cabins

DISTANCE TO WEDDING VENUE - 7.5 MILES Located in Abbot Village in the Maine region, Abbot Trailside Lodging has accommodations with free WiFi and free private parking. Fitted with a balcony, the units offer air conditioning and feature a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with shower and free toiletries. There's also a fridge, microwave and a coffee machine. BOOKING:<a href="https://www.trailsidelodging.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.trailsidelodging.com/</a>

Abbot Trailside Lodging

DISTANCE TO WEDDING VENUE - 12.1 MILES Guilford Bed and Breakfast is located in Guilford in Piscataquis county. Make yourself at home in one of the 5 individually decorated guestrooms. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected. Bathrooms feature showers, hair dryers, and bathrobes. Conveniences include separate sitting areas and complimentary bottled water, and housekeeping is provided on request. Take in the views from a garden and make use of amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access and a communal living room. A complimentary full breakfast is served daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Featured amenities include a library and refrigerator in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite. BOOKING:<a href="https://guilfordbnb.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://guilfordbnb.com/</a>

Guilford Bed and Breakfast

DISTANCE TO WEDDING VENUE - 16.1 MILES Lodging near the famous Covered Bridge! 10-room hotel, 2 pet-friendly rooms. Brand new 32 inch flat screen TVs, dish network.9am - 9pm 7 days per week. Rates:$60 and up 1 person= $ 602 people=$ 653 people=$ 704 people=$ 70 We offer Weekly Rates! Dog Friendly, only $10 per Pet. These rooms are very limited and you must call ahead to reserve this room. BOOKING:<a href="https://www.facebook.com/CoveredBridgeMotelandRestaurant/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/CoveredBridgeMotelandRestaurant/</a>

Covered Bridge Motel

DISTANCE TO WEDDING VENUE - 16.3 MILES Make yourself at home in one of the 15 individually decorated guestrooms, featuring DVD players and flat-screen televisions. Cable television is provided for your entertainment. Bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include separate sitting areas and complimentary bottled water, and housekeeping is provided daily. Pamper yourself with onsite massages or take in the view from a terrace and a garden. This Victorian bed &amp; breakfast also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and a fireplace in the lobby. Satisfy your appetite at the bed &amp; breakfast's coffee shop/cafe. Featured amenities include a business center, a library, and coffee/tea in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite. BOOKING:<a href="https://www.greenvilleinn.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.greenvilleinn.com/</a>

Greenville Inn at Moosehead Lake

DISTANCE TO WEDDING VENUE - 18.5 MILES The Lodge at Moosehead Lake features a garden, shared lounge, a terrace and restaurant in Greenville. With a bar, the 4-star inn has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. Some units at the property feature a balcony with a mountain view. All guest rooms at the inn are equipped with a seating area and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. Certain rooms here will provide you with a kitchen with a fridge, a dishwasher and an oven. All rooms include a closet. An American, vegetarian or gluten-free breakfast is available every morning at the property. BOOKING:<a href="https://lodgeatmooseheadlake.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://lodgeatmooseheadlake.com/</a>

The Lodge at Moosehead Lake

DISTANCE TO WEDDING VENUE - 18.8 MILES Located in Greenville Junction, Moose Mountain inn is in a provincial park, within a 5-minute drive of Moosehead Lake and Moosehead. This motel features recreational opportunities including a seasonal outdoor pool and bicycles to rent and complimentary wireless internet access, tour/ticket assistance, and a picnic area. Make yourself at home in one of the 15 air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators and microwaves. Flat-screen televisions with cable programming provide entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature deep soaking bathtubs and complimentary toiletries. Conveniences include phones, as well as desks and coffee/tea makers. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. A roundtrip airport shuttle is provided for a surcharge (available 24 hours), and free self parking is available onsite. BOOKING:<a href="https://www.moosemountaininn.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.moosemountaininn.com/</a>

Moose Mountain inn

DISTANCE TO WEDDING VENUE - 20.3 MILES Located in Dover-Foxcroft, The Mill Inn is in the historical district. Make yourself at home in one of the 6 guestrooms featuring microwaves. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and digital programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms have showers and hair dryers. Conveniences include desks and coffee/tea makers, and housekeeping is provided on request. Enjoy a meal at the restaurant or snacks in the hotel's coffee shop/cafe. Full breakfasts are available daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM for a fee. Free self parking is available onsite. BOOKING:<a href="https://www.dfmillcafe.com/stay" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.dfmillcafe.com/stay</a>

The Mill Inn

DISTANCE TO WEDDING VENUE - 20.6 MILES Come relax and unwind in our quintessential 1800s farmhouse! Located in the quaint town of Dover-Foxcroft, Maine! BOOKING:<a href="http://freedomhousebandb.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://freedomhousebandb.com/</a>

Freedom House Bed & Breakfast

∞ We're Flexible ∞

We understand that many of our guests will be traveling from out of town and may need assistance with transportation and lodging arrangements. Our goal is to make your trip as enjoyable and seamless as possible, while allowing everyone the flexibility to plan the experience that best suits them. ***GUESTS WHO PREFER TO MANAGE THEIR OWN TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATIONS ARE ENCOURAGED TO DO SO*** The venue is located near several hotels, inns, and vacation rentals-please visit the Travel page for a list of local lodging options and their distances from the venue. For guests who would like assistance, the Bride and Groom plan to reserve a limited number of nearby AirBNB's for shared group lodging. Each couple or single guest will have a private bedroom within a shared home. Transportation will be provided daily to and from the wedding venue for anyone staying in accommodations arranged by the Bride and Groom. If you would like to be included in group lodging and transportation, please indicate this when submitting your RSVP and confirm that you are comfortable with shared living arrangements. Once RSVPs and travel details are received, group accommodations will be finalized based on the number of interested guests. For those participating in group travel, please plan to fly into Bangor International Airport (BGR) and coordinate with the Bride and Groom BEFORE PURCHASING TICKETS. To simplify transportation, guests should aim to arrive and depart around the same general timeframe so that group airport shuttles can be arranged. THIS WILL BE COORDINATED WITH THE BRIDE AND GROOM. Recommended travel dates are Thursday, July 17, 2026 through Sunday, July 20, 2026. The final event day will take place on Saturday, July 19, and guests may wish to stay overnight nearby before departing on Sunday. ***Your cooperation in sharing your travel and lodging plans when you RSVP will help the Bride and Groom coordinate logistics and ensure a smooth experience for everyone.*** Looking forward to a wonderful time!

Emerson & Molly

Emerson & Molly

The Experience

∞ Experience Wilderness ∞

∞