Wedding Day

Saint John's Resort

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

Reception

Our Wedding

For years, Nicholas and Paulina lived just a few steps apart without even knowing it — sharing dozens of mutual friends, attending the neighboring Catholic high schools of Brother Rice and Marian, and frequenting the same streets of Michigan, but never crossing paths. As they came to realize, they were always being gently pulled toward each other, even when they didn’t know it..It wasn’t until Paulina returned home from West Palm Beach, where she had lived for about two years, that everything began to fall into place. When her family purchased the restaurant next door to Nicholas’ restaurant in Birmingham, it seemed like just another chapter of her career. But looking back, it’s clear: it was part of a greater story..Through the rhythm of their everyday lives, working in neighboring restaurants, their paths crossed, and Nicholas asked Paulina on a date. Dinner and a movie marked the start of their story. From their very first encounter, they both walked away with the same undeniable feeling—this was different. This was meant to be. From that moment on, they felt an unexpected sense of peace, a deep familiarity, and a quiet recognition, as if their souls had known each other all along..Not long after them meeting, Paulina's family restaurant was sold, but its true purpose had already been fulfilled. It brought Nicholas and Paulina exactly where they were supposed to be — to each other..What makes this story even more sacred is what was happening behind the scenes — in their hearts and prayers. Before they met, both Nicholas and Paulina were praying for the person God was preparing for them. In the moments leading up to their meeting, Paulina began a nine-day novena to Saint Raphael, the archangel known as the patron of happy meetings. The day she completed the novena was the day she met Nicholas. Their love is deeply rooted in their shared Catholic faith, and God is at the very center of their relationship.."Our story is a reminder that God’s timing is never early, and never late. He weaves every detail to lead us right where we belong. We are grateful every day that our lives finally met, not by accident, but by design. Our relationship is rooted in faith — a bond anchored not just in love, but in a shared devotion to God, who is at the center of our story."—Nicholas &amp; Paulina

Our Story

Photo Gallery

Formal Attire

Formal attire is required for all wedding events on June 13, 2026. For Men: Suits with dress shirts and ties, or tuxedos for a more elevated look. For Women: Elegant floor-length gowns or refined midi-length dresses.

Attire

We warmly welcome you to our wedding ceremony..Our shared Catholic faith has been the foundation of our relationship. As we grow more in love each day, we feel truly blessed to have found one another. In fact, it was the novena to St. Raphael—the patron saint of happy meetings—that brought Nicholas to Paulina!.The Chaldean Catholic Church is part of the Eastern Rite and is fully united with the Roman Catholic Church. While we share the same beliefs, the Chaldean tradition expresses the Catholic faith through ancient customs, music, and prayers—many of which are offered in Sureth, a modern dialect of Aramaic, which is the language that was spoken by Jesus. The Mass will be celebrated in both English and Sureth..We feel truly blessed to celebrate on June 13th—a day filled with profound spiritual meaning. It is the feast day of St. Anthony of Padua, the beloved patron saint of miracles and seekers, whose gentle intercession brings hope and guidance to so many..This special date also marks one of the sacred apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima, who appeared on the 13th of six consecutive months in 1917, offering messages of peace, protection, and unwavering devotion. Even more beautifully, our celebration falls within the month dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus—a powerful symbol of divine love and mercy..With hearts full of gratitude, we are honored to share this day with you all..With Love,Nicholas &amp; Paulina

To our dearest friends and family

Honoring Those We Hold in Our Hearts

Though they may not be with us in person, the presence of our loved ones who have passed will be felt deeply on our wedding day. We carry their love, wisdom, and memories with us as we begin this next chapter together. Their light continues to guide us, and we honor them with all the joy and love in our hearts. Nicholas’ Loved Ones John Linnen — GrandfatherRichard Govan Sr. — GrandfatherPatricia Govan — GrandmotherRichard Govan Jr. — UncleRobert Govan — UnclePatrick Govan — Cousin Paulina’s Loved Ones Naim Azzow — GrandfatherJerjis Faranso — GrandfatherSalima Faranso — GrandmotherRobert Faranso — UncleRaad Faranso — Uncle

Wedding Party

Parents of the GroomDaniel &amp; Dianne Linnen Parents of the BrideNicholas &amp; Michelle Faranso Best Man, James Hellyar(Friend of the Groom)— walking withTherese Diakavasiliou(Cousin of the Bride) Matron of Honor, Natalie Jabiro(Sister of the Bride)— walking with her husband,Blake Jabiro Alexa Naemi(Sister of the Bride)— walking with her husband,Sean Naemi Jacquelyn Santo(Sister of the Bride)— walking with her husband,Rich Santo Kathryn Linnen(Sister of the Groom / Future Mrs. Casper)— walking with her fiancé,Jimmy Casper Yasmeen Faranso(Cousin of the Bride)— walking with Peter Barich(Friend of the Groom) Rena Faranso (Cousin of the Bride)— walking with Lee Wisne(Friend of the Groom) Aundrea Roye (Friend of the Bride)— walking with Ryan Reid(Friend of the Groom) Miranda Osborne (Friend of the Bride)— walking with Andrew Howe(Friend of the Groom) Ashley Lelcaj(Friend of the Bride)— walking with David Wachler(Friend of the Groom) Rachel Heffernan(Friend of the Bride)— walking with Joseph Schwegman(Friend of the Groom) Brittany Heffernan (Friend of the Bride)— walking with Luke Dauch(Friend of the Groom) Aubrey Jappaya(Cousin of the Bride)— walking with Parker Gradolph(Friend of the Groom) Sofia Naemi(Niece of the Bride, Junior Bridesmaid) — walking with Valentino Naemi(Nephew of the Bride, Junior Groomsman) Ring BearerMatthew Asmar(Cousin of the Bride) Flower GirlsGisele Santo, Milania Santo,&amp; Ariana Naemi (Nieces of the Bride) Ceremony ReaderKyle Isso (Cousin of the Bride)

We are excited to celebrate at Saint John’s Resort, where history, purpose, and hospitality come together. Once a 1940s seminary, this Romanesque landmark is more than just a luxury destination, and 100% of its profits support charities worldwide. All wedding events will take place at Saint John's Resort. When booking your stay, please reference 'The Faranso / Linnen Wedding' to access our special discounted room rate for the nights of June 12th and June 13th. <a href="https://be.synxis.com/?adult=1&amp;arrive=2026-06-12&amp;chain=25795&amp;child=0&amp;currency=USD&amp;depart=2026-06-14&amp;group=FL061326A&amp;hotel=95679&amp;level=hotel&amp;locale=en-US&amp;productcurrency=USD&amp;rooms=1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Click Here for the Booking Link</a> The booking deadline to lock in the discounted room rate is May 22, 2026. The resort offers a variety of restaurants and activities, perfect for guests visiting from out of town! For those staying at Saint John's, there will be an optional brunch the morning after the wedding, with details to follow that will be provided in your hotel room.

Another convenient option for guests needing hotel accommodations is the Hilton Garden Inn Plymouth, located less than half a mile from Saint John’s Resort. For any bookings outside of Saint John’s Resort, please contact Jacquelyn Santo at jacquelyn.santo@embarkbeyond.com.

Hilton Garden Inn Plymouth

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At Saint John's Resort

<a href="https://www.saintjohnsresort.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Saint John’s Resort</a> <a href="https://www.thecardinalgolf.com/saint-johns-golf-course" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Golf:</a> Three scenic courses—including the elite Cardinal course—spread over 200 acres. Perfect for a morning tee time. <a href="https://www.saintjohnsresort.com/dining-in-plymouth-mi" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dining &amp; Lounges:</a> Five Steakhouse for upscale cuts and cocktails. The Wine Grotto offers intimate wine‑paired small‑plate tastings. Doyle’s Irish Pub serves hearty fare in a relaxed setting. <a href="https://www.saintjohnsresort.com/detroit-hotel-deals?_gl=1*1h0elvl*_up*MQ..*_gs*MQ..&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjws4fEBhD-ARIsACC3d29br3u0CHMcOSakDDFUuHAopPX38gSO3oBmOTT0wY6My-FwgAeuh6caArknEALw_wcB&amp;gbraid=0AAAAA9SFnoCHQO5LUtS4PGRtR0ydFFFyR" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wellness &amp; Leisure:</a> Indoor pool, fitness center, in‑room spa treatments, yoga events, and a driving range. <a href="https://www.saintjohnsresort.com/detroit-events-calendar?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Events Calendar:</a> Seasonal concerts, golf tournaments, holiday specials, and more!

Beyond the Resort

<a href="https://www.downtownplymouth.org/60/Events-Entertainment" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Around Plymouth: Explore &amp; Have Fun</a> Kellogg Park: Ideal for walking, light shopping, dining, and cafés. <a href="https://www.downtownplymouth.org/64/Dining" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Grab a Bite in Downtown Plymouth</a> Be sure to visit one of Nicholas' restaurants located in Plymouth: Sidecar Slider Bar or Ryuu Sushi. <a href="https://www.sidecarsliderbar.com/locations/plymouth" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sidecar Slider Bar</a>Location: 340 N Main Street, Plymouth, MI 48170Known for a big menu of gourmet sliders, craft beers, cocktails, and more. <a href="https://www.ryuusushi.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ryuu Sushi</a>Location: 340 N Main Street, Plymouth, MI 48170Located in the same space on Main Street as Sidecar!

Whether you're up for a quick 20-minute drive to <a href="https://www.annarbor.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ann Arbor</a>—home to the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, a vibrant art scene, and an eclectic downtown—or a full <a href="https://visitdetroit.com/detroit-experiences/?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_term=detroit%20attractions&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=19593089006&amp;gbraid=0AAAAADsseJSiOt_LS3wA00DWCioMGEqVP&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjws4fEBhD-ARIsACC3d29r8mTy78FCoNJEK0-hADFZD3aQPyX-cNN2PtM1mqR3QRBoSq_zGKUaAuRAEALw_wcB" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Detroit</a> day-trip to experience the dining scene, catch a game, or try your luck at the casinos, there is plenty to do in the area! You can also head to <a href="https://www.twelvemilecrossing.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Novi’s Fountain Walk</a> for open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment. Or, spend the afternoon in downtown <a href="https://downtownbirmingham.com/visit" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Birmingham</a>, known for its upscale boutiques, art galleries, and walkable charm—while you’re there, be sure to stop by <a href="https://www.shiftkitchencocktails.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Shift</a> or <a href="https://www.sidecarsliderbar.com/locations/birmingham" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sidecar Slider Bar</a> (Nicholas’ Birmingham locations)—or any of our <a href="https://www.sidecarsliderbar.com/locations" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">additional locations</a> if you find yourself exploring beyond the area!

Nicholas & Paulina

Nicholas & Paulina

Saint John's Resort

Saint John's Resort

Hilton Garden Inn Plymouth