Our Story
Bethany Forhetz
Born in Arlington, Texas, she grew up in the DFW area, which unfortunately makes her a Cowboys fan.
You can often find her enjoying an iced coffee from one of her favorite coffee shops while working on her career as a Social Media Specialist.
Justin Ackermann
Born in Belleville, Illinois, he grew up in the St. Louis metro area, surrounded by Cardinals baseball & Blues hockey.
As self described nerd, he is often found working on one of his apps or entranced with his love of aviation in between his day job with Fanatics.
FAMILY FRIENDS FROM YOUTH
Ever since we were little, our families have been close friends from the St. Louis area. We often saw each other on holidays and other special occasions, but never truly interacted till we were much older.
Most of our time was spent on her grandparent’s farm bouncing on the trampoline or hanging out with the horses.
FEBRUARY 21ST, 2020
After reconnecting as adults, we started talking as long distance friends. Bethany lived in Dallas and Justin in Tampa. We knew we wanted to date, but hadn’t seen each other for about a decade.
For our first date, Justin flew to Dallas and surprised Bethany on her doorstep with tickets to a Blues vs. Stars NHL game that same night.
TOGETHER IN FLORIDA
Bethany made the big move to Florida to begin a life with Justin. Over 1200 miles later, she created a new home in St. Petersburg, Florida.
After living together in Florida for almost 2 years, we purchased our house and made St. Petersburg our permanent home.
FEBRUARY 10TH, 2024
On February 10th, 2024, using Justin’s Grandmother’s birthday as a much needed distraction, we went back to her Grandfather’s farm so Justin could pop the question in the barn where it all started.
The Venue
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Where To STay
We tried to offer a variety of options at different price levels so you can find one that suits your family best.
Room Blocks
We have secured room blocks at a few locations in the Chattanooga area, near our wedding venue.
You can reach out to these hotels to book rooms, mentioning ‘The Ackermann Wedding’ at the time of booking to secure a room in the block we have reserved.
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Anchor to the iconic Chattanooga Choo Choo, this hotel offers an air of nostalgia replete with first-class accommodations.
Chalet King: $229 per night
Chalet Double: $239 per night
Sleeper Deluxe Train: $349 per night
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Moxy Chattanooga is a stylishly chic hotel that focuses on the less while offering so much more! Made for the young and young at heart.
Standard Room: $199 per night
Other Options
Our chosen hotels might not be the best option for everyone and that’s okay! There are plenty of places to stay in the Chattanooga area that all offer a great stay and classic Tennessee charm.
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Chattanooga’s Historic Luxury Hotel. Nationally Recognized As A Historic Place. A dazzling Jazz-era gem with the trappings of a new hotel.
Traditional Room: $260 per night
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This hotel is a 10-minute walk from the best of downtown Chattanooga. The Tennessee Aquarium, Creative Discovery Museum, Tivoli Theatre, and the Riverwalk are blocks away.
Traditional Room: $228 per night
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An uncommon hostel in the heart of downtown, combining the affordability & camaraderie of a traditional hostel with the charm and cleanliness of a boutique hotel.
Superbunk: $39 per night
Private Rooms: $72-$96 per night
Hemingway Suite: $129 per night
THINGS TO DO IN CHATTANOOGA
Tennessee Aquarium
Situated on the Tennessee River in downtown Chattanooga, TN, the Tennessee Aquarium is home to 10000 animals and an IMAX theater.
Ruby Falls
Ruby Falls is a series of underground cascading waterfalls totaling 90 feet in Lookout Mountain
Rock City
Uncover the wonders of Rock City! Stunning views, unique gardens, and fun attractions await. Don't miss out on this natural treasure.
Inclined Railway
The Lookout Mountain Incline Railway is a 4 ft 8+1⁄2 in standard gauge inclined funicular railway leading to the top of Lookout Mountain
Chattanooga Choo Choo
In the heart of downtown Chattanooga, you’ll find the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo.
Chattanooga Whiskey
Chattanooga Whiskey was founded in 2011 by Chattanooga-native Tim Piersant, whose mission was to bring "Whiskey to the People".
Ocoee River Rafting
The Ocoee River in Tennessee has become the most popular whitewater rafting adventure in America with over twenty continuous rapids
High Point
From bouldering and lead climbing to our outdoor walls and Kid Zone, they have something great for everyone!
Frequently Asked Questions
Travel Information
How Do I Get To Chattanooga?
The nearest airport is Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA), also known as Lovell Field, just 5 miles east of downtown Chattanooga .
Major carriers offer direct flights to CHA include Delta, American, and United, with regional partners like American Eagle too
Do You Have Any Room Blocks?
Yes! We’ve arranged two different room blocks at nearby hotels to make your stay easier.
Details and booking links for both hotels are listed on the Home page of our website. Be sure to book early to get the group rate!
What's The Weather Like In Chattanooga?
In October, Chattanooga enjoys pleasant autumn weather that’s ideal for outdoor celebrations:
Daytime highs typically range from 67–74 °F, while evening lows fall to around 46–51 °F.
Skies are often partly cloudy, with sunshine about 65% of the time, and you may see a bit of cloud cover increasing as the month goes on .
Rainfall is light to moderate—there’s about a 20–23% chance of a rainy day.
It’s generally cool but comfortable, so layering is recommended for evening hours.
The Venue
How Do I Get To The Venue?
Both hotels with room blocks are just a short walk from the venue, making it easy to get to the celebration on foot.
If you’re driving, there’s ample parking available directly across the street from the venue, as well as additional parking at the Chattanooga Choo Choo train station nearby.
Where Is The Reception?
Both our Ceremony & Reception will be held at The Historic with the reception following the ceremony & cocktail hour.
You can find information on the venue on the home page.
Is The Wedding Indoor or Outdoor?
The entire celebration—ceremony and reception—will take place indoors at the same venue. No need to worry about the weather—we’ve got it all covered (literally)!
Is The Venue Wheelchair Accessible?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible. There is a ramp located at the back of the venue for guests who need it. If you need any assistance on the day of the event, just let us know—we’re happy to help!
Ceremony & Reception
When Is The Wedding?
Saturday, October 4, 2025
The ceremony will begin promptly at 4:30 PM at The Historic in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
What Time Should I Arrive?
The ceremony will begin promptly at 4:30 PM.
We kindly ask all guests to arrive by 4:00 PM and be seated by 4:15 PM so we can start on time. Thank you for helping us make the day run smoothly!
What Is The Dress Code?
Business casual.
Think of it as a step up from everyday wear, but not as formal as suits or cocktail dresses.
For men: Dress slacks or chinos with a button-down shirt or polo. Jackets are optional. No ties needed unless you’d like to wear one.
For women: A casual dress, blouse with skirt or pants. Heels, flats, or nice sandals are all fine.
What to avoid: T-shirts, jeans, shorts, sneakers, or anything too casual.
Consider light layers—for example, a dress with a cardigan or a light sweater for women, and chinos with a light jacket or sport coat for men. It’s autumn-cool, not cold—perfect for enjoying the day and evening in comfort!
We want everyone to feel comfortable and polished—but no need to overdo it!
Are Kids Welcome?
Adults-Only Wedding
We love your little ones, but we’ve decided to make our wedding an adults-only celebration. We hope this can be a fun night out for you to relax and enjoy!
Can I Take Photos During the Ceremony?
We kindly ask that guests refrain from taking photos during the ceremony.
We’ve hired a professional photographer to capture every special moment, so you can sit back, relax, and be fully present with us. We promise to share the beautiful photos afterward!
Thank you for understanding and helping us keep the moment intimate and distraction-free.
Will There Be A Cocktail Hour
After the ceremony, there will be a cocktail hour for guests to enjoy drinks and hors d’oeuvres while we take photos with the bridal party. Feel free to mingle, grab a bite, and get ready to celebrate!
Will There Be Food?
Yes! We’ll have a buffet-style dinner with a variety of options to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
Before that, during the cocktail hour, there will be a selection of hors d’oeuvres and drinks to enjoy. Come hungry!
We will have some gluten free options for those that require them.
Will There Be Alcohol?
Unfortunately...
We’ll have an open bar throughout the evening. You can enjoy a selection of beer, wine, and specialty cocktails we’ve chosen for the night. Cheers!
Got ya for a second there didn't we...
RSVP & Other Information
How Do I RSVP?
You’ll receive a card with your invitation that includes a QR code. Just scan it with your phone to go straight to our RSVP page. It’s quick and easy—no stamps required! Please be sure to respond by September 4, 2025!
Can I Bring A Guest?
If you’re attending solo, you’re welcome to bring a plus one!
Just make sure to include their name when you RSVP so we can plan accordingly. If you received an invite addressed only to you, a plus one is automatically included.
Do You Have A Registry?
If you’d like to gift us something, we’d be so grateful for a contribution to our honeymoon fund as we set off on an unforgettable adventure through Italy.
You can find the details on our Registry page. Thank you for helping us make memories that will last a lifetime!
I Have A Question That Isn't Answered
If there’s anything we haven’t covered, feel free to text Justin Ackermann at (618) 207‑9212.
He’ll be happy to help with any additional info you need!
Do You Have Room Block?
Yes! We’ve arranged two different room blocks at nearby hotels to make your stay easier.
Details and booking links for both hotels are listed on the Home page of our website. Be sure to book early to get the group rate!
What's The Weather Like In Chattanooga?
In October, Chattanooga enjoys pleasant autumn weather that’s ideal for outdoor celebrations:
Daytime highs typically range from 67–74 °F, while evening lows fall to around 46–51 °F.
Skies are often partly cloudy, with sunshine about 65% of the time, and you may see a bit of cloud cover increasing as the month goes on .
Rainfall is light to moderate—there’s about a 20–23% chance of a rainy day.
It’s generally cool but comfortable, so layering is recommended for evening hours.
When Is The Wedding?
Saturday, October 4, 2025
The ceremony will begin promptly at 4:30 PM at The Historic in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
How Do I Get To The Venue?
Both hotels with room blocks are just a short walk from the venue, making it easy to get to the celebration on foot.
If you’re driving, there’s ample parking available directly across the street from the venue, as well as additional parking at the Chattanooga Choo Choo train station nearby.
What Time Should I Arrive?
The ceremony will begin promptly at 4:30 PM.
We kindly ask all guests to arrive by 4:00 PM and be seated by 4:15 PM so we can start on time. Thank you for helping us make the day run smoothly!
What Is The Dress Code?
Business casual.
Think of it as a step up from everyday wear, but not as formal as suits or cocktail dresses.
For men: Dress slacks or chinos with a button-down shirt or polo. Jackets are optional. No ties needed unless you’d like to wear one.
For women: A sundress, blouse with skirt or pants, or a casual dress. Heels, flats, or nice sandals are all fine.
What to avoid: T-shirts, jeans, shorts, sneakers, or anything too casual.
Consider light layers—for example, a dress with a cardigan or a light sweater for women, and chinos with a light jacket or sport coat for men. It’s autumn-cool, not cold—perfect for enjoying the day and evening in comfort!
We want everyone to feel comfortable and polished—but no need to overdo it!
Are Kids Welcome?
Adults-Only Wedding
We love your little ones, but we’ve decided to make our wedding an adults-only celebration. We hope this can be a fun night out for you to relax and enjoy!
Where Is The Reception?
Both our Ceremony & Reception will be held at The Historic with the reception following the ceremony & cocktail hour.
You can find information on the venue on the home page.
Will There Be A Cocktail Hour
After the ceremony, there will be a cocktail hour for guests to enjoy drinks and hors d’oeuvres while we take photos with the bridal party. Feel free to mingle, grab a bite, and get ready to celebrate!
Will There Be Food?
Yes! We’ll have a buffet-style dinner with a variety of options to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
Before that, during the cocktail hour, there will be a selection of hors d’oeuvres and drinks to enjoy. Come hungry!
We will have some gluten free options for those that require them.
Will There Be Alcohol?
Unfortunately...
We’ll have an open bar throughout the evening. You can enjoy a selection of beer, wine, and specialty cocktails we’ve chosen for the night. Cheers!
Got ya for a second there didn't we...
How Do I RSVP?
You’ll receive a card with your invitation that includes a QR code. Just scan it with your phone to go straight to our RSVP page. It’s quick and easy—no stamps required! Please be sure to respond by September 4, 2025!
Can I Bring A Guest?
If you’re attending solo, you’re welcome to bring a plus one!
Just make sure to include their name when you RSVP so we can plan accordingly. If you received an invite addressed only to you, a plus one is automatically included.
I Have A Question That Isn't Answered
If there’s anything we haven’t covered, feel free to text Justin Ackermann at (618) 207‑9212.
He’ll be happy to help with any additional info you need!
Can I Take Photos During the Ceremony?
We kindly ask that guests refrain from taking photos during the ceremony.
We’ve hired a professional photographer to capture every special moment, so you can sit back, relax, and be fully present with us. We promise to share the beautiful photos afterward!
Thank you for understanding and helping us keep the moment intimate and distraction-free.
Is The Wedding Indoor or Outdoor?
The entire celebration—ceremony and reception—will take place indoors at the same venue. No need to worry about the weather—we’ve got it all covered (literally)!
Is The Venue Wheelchair Accessible?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible. There is a ramp located at the back of the venue for guests who need it. If you need any assistance on the day of the event, just let us know—we’re happy to help!
