The Wedding Story of... Michael & Andrea Kinder

For aerospace engineers, Andrea Doyle and Michael Kinder, it is safe to say they know a thing or two about taking flight. But neither realized their acceptances into the aerospace engineering undergraduate programs at the University of Notre Dame would be their ticket to board a flight of love.

During the course of their studies, the students shared a Boeing internship program in Seattle allowing them an opportunity to meet. Before long friends quickly caught on to their ensuing romance as "he was constantly talking about her, and she was talking about him." The couple's love grew for one another, degrees were earned, and when the 2006 holidays approached, a ring was romantically presented to a very delighted and surprised Andrea after dinner prayer on Christmas Day.

In typical "Andrea" fashion, the "to-be" bride took on the majority of wedding tasks and preparations, setting new goals each week so as to not overlook the slightest detail. The "little pieces" as Andrea refers to them, were often the most significant.

Despite her hesitancy to delegate tasks, a few of Andrea's closest friends and family managed to alleviate some of the wedding stress. Megan, a bridesmaid, designed the save-the-dates, programs, and menus, while Andrea's cousin, Emily, offered to style the bridal party's tresses the day of the wedding. In particular, Andrea's sister, Brianna, provided genuine comfort, encouragement, and hands-on assistance throughout the entire process from gown shopping to cake tasting. "Her support was very apparent," recognizes Andrea.

The couple wed on October 6, 2007 as the Liturgical Choir's voices resonated in the Basilica of the Sacred Heart on Notre Dame's campus. The bride's elegant frame was ideally suited for her Allure gown, crystal tiara, and ethereal, sweeping veil. Andrea swept down the aisle with a hand held bundle of Oriental Lilies and Lily of the Valley, a vision of radiance, and to Michael, a vision of love.

Friends and family play an important role in the couple's lives so Andrea and Michael planned social gatherings to embrace their company. "For many of our guests, it was their first visit to South Bend, and we wanted to show them why we love Notre Dame," Andrea comments. At the hotel Andrea prepared "check-in bags" filled with candy, suggestions of fun "to-dos" while in town, and certificates for drinks at the hotel bar. A relaxed morning brunch was served immediately following the 9 am ceremony at Notre Dame's South Dining Hall. An open afternoon allowed guests to do as they pleased: play rounds of golf at a nearby course, visit the Football Hall of Fame, take tours of campus, socialize at the hotel, or enjoy an afternoon siesta before the evening festivities began.

The meticulously planned reception incorporated the most elegant of elements. From the dramatic centerpieces showcasing Oriental Lilies and Bells of Ireland to the glitzy gems placed around the cake, every detail was noteworthy. Dazzled by the beautiful surroundings, guests enjoyed a long night of celebration and dance. Andrea remembers, "The dance floor was completely full the entire night--it was awesome!"

A Sunday morning breakfast gave the couple a final opportunity to show gratitude to their loved ones and bid adieu. "We couldn't have been happier to have so many friends and family members there," reflects Andrea.