Story
Aaron and I met on Plenty of Fish, an online dating app. I signed up on a Tuesday and we had our first date a little over a week later. For our first date we met at Palmer's Family Fun and played mini golf (I won) and then we went to Tony's La Pizzeria for dinner. I remember thinking Aaron was something special when he ordered a martini (one of my favorite drinks), because he "wanted to try something new." We ended up going to Pump Haus for more drinks and then talked for hours (way past his bedtime). A few days later we had our second date and the rest is history!
Tidbits
How did he propose?
My son, Aaron proposed to his girlfriend Whitney at the Elma Library on September 7, 2020. Our family helped set the stage for the perfect proposal. Aaron and Whitney both love to read and Whitney is especially fond of old books. Aaron had hoped to take Whitney to the law library in Des Moines to pop the question, but because of the coronavirus and places being shut down he wasn’t able to do that. So he planned the next best thing and used the Elma Library where his mom (me!) is the director. Aaron made a book with his and Whitney’s story and all the reasons why he loves her. (He found a company online where he was able to create the book). He gave the book to her to read and then on the last page a ribbon was attached to the book with the ring tied to it. I wasn’t able to be there in person because I was quarantined at the time but through photos and a video my daughter took we were able to see the proposal. I am a very happy mom and a proud library director. It was so wonderful to see our library used for such a special occasion. - Renee Burke
What was your most memorable date?
Some of our favorite date nights include dinner and the comedy show in La Crosse, going bowling and to the arcade, or attempting to cook new meals in the kitchen.
What's the best meal you have eaten together?
The cinnamon rolls at Ruby's in Decorah.
What are your favorite interests, hobbies or activities to do together?
When we're not busy remodeling Aaron's house, we enjoy playing golf, gardening, or looking for antiques at flea markets.
Favorite TV Shows?
The Office, Parks & Rec, Tiger King, Pawn Stars, Master Chef, Rust Valley Restorers, Supermarket Sweep or anything funny.
Where are you going for your honeymoon?
To be determined!
Wedding Party
Jenny Awe
Matron of Honor
Adam Praska
Best Man
Morgan Halbur
Matron of Honor
Seth Praska
Best Man
Jennifer Hedrick
Personal Attendant
Holly O'Brien
Personal Attendant
Ryan Johnson
Officiant
Patrick & Renee Burke
Parents of the Groom
John & Linda Johnson
Parents of the Bride
Travel
Historic Park Inn, West State Street, Mason City, IA, USA
Rooms can be reserved under the room block name "Johnson/Burke Wedding". Reservations must be received by July 14th, 2021 to receive the special rate of $123/night plus tax. Please call (641) 422-0015 to book a room.
Express Taxi Mason City
We’ve set up special arrangements with Express Taxi to provide free rides for our guests! Please mention “Baby Got Burke” to get a free ride to and from the reception from your hotel.
Quality Inn & Suites, 5th Street Southwest, Mason City, IA, USA
Rooms can be reserved under the room block name "Johnson/Burke Wedding". Reservations must be received by July 30th, 2021 to receive the special rate of $110/night (Double) or $105/night (King) plus tax. Please call (641) 243-4222 to book a room. *This hotel does have a pool for the kiddos!
Registry
Your presence at our wedding is present enough! However, for friends and family who have expressed an interest, we’ve created an online registry with Amazon, Menards, & Target.
Q & A
For all our friends and family who have lots of questions, please check out our Q & A first!
When is the RSVP deadline?
Please RSVP by August 7th, so we can have an accurate headcount.
Can I bring a date?
Please check your invite for your +1!
Are kids welcome?
Yes, just remember that venue is a museum and children need to be supervised at all times.
What should I wear?
Dressy Casual – Button-down shirts/polos and summer sundress or a skirt/pants with a nice blouse.
Are the ceremony and reception locations wheelchair accessible?
Yes!
Is the wedding indoors or outdoors?
Both the ceremony and reception will be indoors.
Will there be dancing?
Yes!
What time will the reception end?
11 p.m.
Can I take and post pictures of the wedding on social media?
Yes, we encourage guests to post pictures on to their social media channels, our only request is that you tag each photo with our wedding hashtag #BabyGotBurke so we can keep track of all of your pictures!
Is there a gifts registry?
Your presence at our wedding is present enough! However, for friends and family who have expressed an interest, we are registered at Amazon, Menards, & Target.
Will last names be changing after the wedding?
Yes, Whitney will be changing her last name to Burke after the wedding.
Whom should I call with questions?
Please email us any questions: awburke2021@gmail.com
Get the app
Download Joy and join our app using our event handle aaron-burke-and-whitney-johnson. View and share photos and stay up-to-date with details on the go.