Rehearsal Ceremony

Rehearsal Dinner

Transept

Welcome Party

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

Dinner and Reception

Fall

Our Wedding

Jon is Joe’s twin brother and lifelong best friend. From the very beginning (literally), they’ve done life side by side in every season. Joe describes Jon as one of the most selfless people he knows and his true “ride or die” — the kind of person who shows up without being asked and always has his back.

Jon Yerkins

Chris is Joe’s eldest brother and someone he has always admired. A natural leader and role model, Chris is dependable, thoughtful, and full of wisdom. Joe is grateful for his guidance, his humor, and the steady example he’s set throughout their lives. 

Chris Yerkins 

Sean has been one of Joe’s closest friends for over seven years. Joe describes him as kind hearted, empathetic, and deeply loyal. Whether sharing meaningful conversations or unforgettable memories, Sean’s high energy, warmth, and thoughtfulness makes friendship with him a true gift.

Sean Conway

Jake entered Joe’s life in 2020 and quickly became the kind of friend you keep for life. Joe describes Jake as someone who always has your back, listens well, and somehow knows how to make everyone laugh at just the right moment. His care, humor, and authenticity make him truly one of a kind.

Jake Rineer

Corben is a friend Joe values for his faith and fortitude. He brings a calm confidence and a genuine heart into every space he’s in. Joe appreciates Corben’s light-hearted spirit that is deeply loyal to the Lord and to others. Corben’s ambition is an inspiration and a blessing to have in a life-long friend. 

Corben Shoemaker

Sharif and Joe became close while navigating college life together and have been bonded ever since. He’s the kind of friend who brings wisdom, encouragement, and good conversation wherever he goes. He will show up when you need someone and always call to check to make sure his people know they are loved. 

Sharif Johnson

Nate is one of Joe’s earliest college friends and someone he has always been able to count on. Joe describes Nate as patient, adventurous, and full of heart. A natural leader with a thoughtful spirit, Nate has a gift for bringing people together and putting others before himself. 

Nate Peppers

Michael and Joe have been best friends since growing up together in Miamisburg, Ohio. Through every season, their friendship has remained strong and full of trust. Joe describes Michael as disciplined, dependable, and someone whose loyalty has stood the test of time.

Michael Karwowski

Marin is Emily’s eldest sister and someone she has always admired for her peaceful spirit and joyful way of living. They share many meaningful connections, from attending the same university and sorority to even choosing the same wedding venue. Marin’s wisdom, warmth, and gentle leadership make her a constant source of encouragement.

Marin Newport

Olivia is Emily’s second eldest sister and someone who constantly challenges her to grow. Whether through fashion, creativity, or meeting new people, Olivia encourages Emily to step outside her comfort zone. Emily admires her ability to make everyone feel welcomed, confident, and included.

Olivia Edelen

Sydney is Emily’s sister closest in age and one of her biggest cheerleaders. She is energetic, joyful, and endlessly loving, with a gift for making moments feel special. Emily says Sydney brings laughter wherever she goes and never misses a chance to celebrate life to the fullest.

Sydney Rebella

Emma is one of Emily’s dearest college friends and a friendship she knows will last a lifetime. Together they’ve shared unforgettable memories at the University of Wisconsin and while traveling the world. Emily describes Emma as a treasured constant — loyal, full of faith, and always up for an adventure.

Emma Loveless

Caitlin came into Emily’s life at the very beginning of college and immediately stood out for her Christlike love. Emily was drawn to her thoughtfulness and her way of making people feel deeply cared for. Caitlin is sentimental, strong, fun loving, and the kind of friend who would go to great lengths for those she loves.

Caitlin Caretta

Sav is one of Emily’s close college friends, first met through their sorority and later as roommates. Their friendship grew through shared faith, laughter, and everyday life together. Sav is known for her playful humor, joyful spirit, and loyal heart — someone who makes life lighter and more fun.

Savanna McKinnon

Quinn is Emily’s childhood friend from Mason, Ohio, whose friendship has grown beautifully over time. From sports and school to adulthood and distance, Quinn has remained a constant presence. Emily describes her as deeply loyal, compassionate, and someone whose quiet strength brings comfort and trust.

Quinn Robinson

Olivia has been a faithful presence in Emily’s life since 2022 and a meaningful part of her faith journey. Emily often looks to her as an example of how to live with joy and intention. Olivia is carefree, fun loving, and a constant reminder to embrace life with gratitude and trust.

Olivia Acuña

Skylar is Emily’s first niece and the eldest daughter of Marin and Alex Newport. She is sweet, gentle, and kind hearted, and will lovingly lead her younger sister down the aisle. Skylar will be just over three years old on the wedding day and is excited to play such a special role.

Skylar Newport

Blaire is Emily’s second niece and the youngest daughter of Marin and Alex Newport. She is lively, smiley, and full of joy, bringing light wherever she goes. Blaire will be about 14 months old on the wedding day and will be making her very first big walk down the aisle.

Blaire Newport

Jayden is Emily’s nephew and the son of Olivia and Austin Edelen. He is a spunky, outgoing little guy with a big personality and an even bigger smile. On the wedding day, Jayden will proudly take on the important role of protecting the rings as he walks down the aisle at just over two years old.

Jayden Edelen

Wedding Party

Q + A

25 rooms reserved Located along the Ohio River, this hotel is just a short walk away from the beautiful views of the Cincinnati skyline, the river, and several of the city’s iconic bridges. Guests may also catch views of Great American Ball Park and Paycor Stadium right from the property. The hotel is conveniently located just 2.8 miles from our ceremony and reception venue, making it an easy and comfortable option for wedding weekend. Click the link or call the phone number to book with our group "Rebella-Yerkins Wedding". If you choose to reserve your room under this hotel and rate, you must book before August 20th

Holiday Inn Cincinnati-Riverfront by IHG

20 rooms reserved Located in the heart of Downtown Cincinnati, The Westin sits right on Fountain Square and is surrounded by many of the city’s favorite restaurants, bars, museums, and attractions. It is a beautiful, lively area to explore throughout the wedding weekend. The hotel is just a short 0.7 mile walk to our ceremony and reception venue. Along the way, be sure to stop at Joe and Emily’s favorite treat, Graeter’s Ice Cream, located right on the square just across the street.

The Westin Cincinnati

90 rooms reserved Just a short walk from The Westin, the Hilton is an iconic Cincinnati hotel known for its beauty and historic charm. With plenty of amenities, it offers a comfortable and relaxing place to enjoy the wedding weekend while celebrating the happy couple. The hotel is located just 0.3 miles from our ceremony and reception venue, putting you right in the heart of one of Joe and Emily’s favorite areas of the city. Be sure to enjoy Washington Park as you make your way over!

Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza

Hotels

Do cincy like joe and emily

favorite Cincinnati Neighborhoods...

Oakley (where they met) Mt. Lookout (where the relationship blossomed) Hyde Park (their favorite date night spots and running/walking paths)Over the Rhine (the best Cincinnatian experience for food, colorful murals, music, and culture)Fountain Square (heart of downtown) Mariemont (the best coffee shops!)

Their favorite memories were...

THE FIRST DATE: <a href="https://www.redtreecoffeeandart.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Red Tree Coffee</a> (3210 Madison Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45209)THE SECOND DATE: <a href="https://madtree.com/locations/alcove-bar-restaurant/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Alcove by MadTree Brewing</a> (1410 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202) &amp; <a href="https://www.ghost-baby.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ghost Baby</a> (1314 Republic St, Cincinnati, OH 45202)WHEN HE ASKED HER OUT: <a href="https://vvitalian.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">VV Italian Experience</a> (1026 Delta Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45208)

Their Regular Spots...

THE BITES:<a href="https://www.guardiacincy.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Guardia Pizza</a> (3200 Linwood Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45226), <a href="https://www.delwoodcincy.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Delwood</a> (3204 Linwood Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45226), <a href="https://www.kanjiotr.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kanji OTR</a> (1739 Elm St, Cincinnati, OH 45202), <a href="https://www.sottocincinnati.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sotto</a> (118 E 6th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202)THE DRINKS:<a href="https://www.topoftheparkcincinnati.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Phelps</a> (506 E 4th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202), <a href="https://www.somersetotr.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Somerset Bar</a> (139 E McMicken Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45202), <a href="https://rhinegeist.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Rhinegeist Brewery</a> (1910 Elm St, Cincinnati, OH 45202)THE COFFEE:<a href="https://vvitalian.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">VV's Cafe</a> (Emily's favorite), <a href="https://www.the86.net/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The 86</a> (Joe's favorite), <a href="https://momnemcoffee.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mom 'N 'Em</a> (Great atmosphere + cocktail bar as well), <a href="https://www.themadisonplace.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Madison Place Coffee</a> (get the burrito), <a href="https://www.coffee-emporium.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Coffee Emporium</a> (enjoy the baked goods)

Their Favorite Activities...

BEST WALKING &amp; SITE SEEING:Ault Park, Alms Park, Smale Park, Washington Park, Sawyer's Point/Yeatman's Cove, Newport on the LeveeMOST FUN:<a href="https://oktoberfestzinzinnati.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">October Fest Zinzinnati</a> (705 E Pete Rose Wy, Cincinnati, OH 45202), <a href="https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks/visit-a-park/find-a-parkfacility/krohn-conservatory/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Krohn Conservatory</a> (1501 Eden Park Dr, Cincinnati, OH 45202), <a href="https://www.pinsbar.com/locations/cincinnati" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Duck Pin Bowling</a> (1124 Main St, Cincinnati, OH 45202), <a href="https://www.thecandlelabcincy.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Candle Lab OTR</a> (1325 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202),

Things to Do

Ultimate Formal Attire Shopping Guide

25 Hand-Picked Formal Guest Dresses

Tux vs. Suit: What's the Difference?

The bride and groom will be looking and feeling their absolute best on their special day, and they’d love for their guests to do the same!Gentlemen: Dark suits or dressy separatesLadies: Formal dresses, floor length dresses, or elegant evening attireColors: Deep fall tones will complement the evening beautifully, but don’t stress—simply wear your best and celebrate in style!

Dress Code

Emily and Joe met in 2023 at Crossroads Church in Cincinnati, OH, the summer before their final year of undergrad. Emily was working her Sunday internship, and Joe was exploring marketing roles and visiting Crossroads as a potential place of employment. Emily had already heard whispers about the “new cute volunteer” who gave up a week of his summer to lead middle schoolers closer to Jesus.While Joe was getting a tour of the building, he crossed paths with Emily and a friend — and that’s where the first introduction happened. Later, Emily sent Joe a message on Instagram, and the two planned a coffee date. Joe left that date feeling great and kept in touch even as Emily returned to finish her last semester at the University of Wisconsin.Over Thanksgiving break, Emily came home to Cincinnati, and Joe took her on what she describes as the best date of her life — a beautiful dinner followed by a classy drink at a speakeasy downtown. Their connection was strong and immediate, but with graduation approaching and major life transitions ahead, they chose to pause and pray about what moving forward should look like.In early 2024, after a few different run-ins and their circles of friends naturally overlapping, Emily and Joe reconnected. From the beginning, they built everything on a shared commitment to God and faith in Jesus. In May 2024, Joe asked Emily to be his girlfriend, and they stepped into the relationship with excitement and expectancy for what God would do through them. They bonded deeply over faith, travel, fitness, and making ordinary moments feel extraordinary simply by being together.Through a year filled with changes — new apartments, new jobs, new friends, pets, hobbies, and more — God continued to grow them and bless their relationship.In 2025, they took on one of their favorite challenges yet: training for and running their first marathons together. Encouraging, motivating, and pushing each other toward their highest potential became one of the sweetest rhythms of their relationship.Today, Joe lives in Dayton while Emily lives in Cincinnati. Even with an hour between them, they prioritize their faith, community, and cultivating joyful, intentional time together.After they marry, they plan to move to downtown Cincinnati and make Crossroads Uptown — right by the University of Cincinnati — their home church. They hope to pour into young adults and college students there. Their prayer is that God continues to grow them individually and together, and that their marriage becomes a blessing to those around them, a source of joy, and a catalyst for the work God wants to do in Cincinnati and beyond.

Emily & Joe

Emily & Joe

Photos