Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

Coming to Grand Canyon University from a different state was scary, but I remember everyone telling me, “College is where you’ll meet your lifelong friends.” Holding onto that, I went in with an open mind and tried to put myself out there, though it wasn’t easy at first. On the last weekend before classes began, we met by chance at a campus coffee shop. From there, our friend group grew, but we always made an effort to build our own friendship. From late-night movie nights to football Sundays, we slowly grew closer. As time went on, we shared so many unforgettable experiences, like going to more than ten concerts together, Zoya learning how to wakesurf, and making the most of spontaneous nights. One of those started at Topgolf, where Braden taught Zoya how to do a burnout (questionable, but memorable). From there, we drove around with no real plan, windows down, listening to our favorite music. Somehow, we ended up in downtown Phoenix, renting scooters at 2 a.m. and laughing the entire time. At the time, we were just friends, but looking back, those were the moments that quietly built something more. Our entire first year of college was filled with memories like this, long before we ever started dating. It wasn’t until our second year that things became something more. Since then, our love has grown exponentially. Built on a foundation of friendship, we trust that our marriage will continue to grow through the grace of Christ, and we are so excited for all that is ahead.

Colorado Avalanche game for Braden's 19th birthday

Extra Innings Festival with Chris Stapleton and Noah Kahan

Pretty sure Braden lost in cup pong shortly after this photo

Karaoke night at our favorite spot in town

Post CoJo concert grilled cheese

Late night scooter ride after the MN Wild game

Another one!

GCU's finest!

Watching Zoya’s “killer drive” (results may vary)

Line dancing at GCU

Phoenix Supercross '24

Superbowl watch party in Braden's room

UFC300 Aftermath

Last weekend of our freshman year

First time standing up at Lake Pleasant!

Jason Aldean and Jon Pardi

And finally...Our first date!

Our Story

Photos

Maid of Honor: Sofia Kroetch

Best Man: Kelter Christenson

Bridesmaid: Bailey Boyd

Groomsman: Dakota Smith

Bridesmaid: Grace Soto

Groomsman: Keegan Heaton

Wedding Party

Dress Code

Q + A

We have reserved a block of rooms at the Hampton Inn Cortez for our guests. To receive the discounted rate, please use the reservation code CHH500 and mention the Kroetch-Boyd Wedding when booking.Please reserve your room by September 13th at 9:00 AM to secure a room within the block. We recommend booking early, as rooms may fill quickly!

The Hampton Inn

Cortez Municipal Airport is a small local airport that offers limited daily flights and a convenient option for guests traveling into Cortez. Please note that this is a very small airport, with planes accommodating approximately nine passengers per flight, so we strongly recommend booking early. For flight schedules and additional information, please visit the airport’s website, as well as the Denver Air Connection website for flight booking.

Cortez Municipal Airport

Durango-La Plata County Airport is a larger regional airport that may be a more convenient option for many guests traveling to the wedding. American Airlines and United Airlines both offer flights into Durango, and rental car services are available at the airport for easy transportation to Cortez and the surrounding area.

Durango-La Plata County Airport

Travel

Best coffee in town! Braden and Zoya's Favorite: Fruit Punch Infusion

Ziggi's Coffee

Mesa Verde National Park is famous for its incredible cliff dwelling homes built right into the sides of canyon walls by the Ancestral Pueblo people. Walking through them feels like stepping back in time and seeing how people lived tucked into the cliffs hundreds of years ago.

Mesa Verde National Park Cortez

Dolores River Brewery is a fun, laid-back spot with a great patio where you can relax and enjoy locally crafted beer in a cool, welcoming atmosphere.

Dolores River Brewery

Stonefish Sushi is a fun, casual sushi spot with fresh rolls, a lively atmosphere, and a great place to grab dinner with friends or family. It’s one of our favorite places to go when we want something relaxed but still really good. Zoya’s favorite: Beef yaki udonBraden’s favorite: Ranch roll

Stonefish Sushi

Tequila's Mexican Restaurant offers flavorful Mexican favorites in a colorful, upbeat setting that’s perfect for a casual night out. It’s a go-to spot for great food, refreshing drinks, and a fun, energetic vibe. Zoya's favorite: Mango MargaritaBraden's favorite: Driving

Tequila's Mexican Restaurant

Blondie's Trophy Room &amp; Axe Throwing is a fun, high-energy spot where you can grab a drink and try your hand at axe throwing for a unique night out. It’s perfect for groups looking to mix a little competition with a laid-back bar atmosphere.

Blondies Trophy Room

Conquistador Golf Course is a beautiful, scenic course surrounded by mountain views and wide-open landscapes, making it just as enjoyable for the views as it is for the golf.

Conquistador Golf Course

Dolores River Trail is a beautiful, 3 mile riverside walk with peaceful views, flowing water, and scenic surroundings that make it perfect for a relaxing stroll. It can get chilly, especially by the water, so be sure to bring a jacket. Braden's Shortened Suggestion: Begin at the library in Dolores and end at Joe Rowell Park.

Braden & Zoya