Morgan Grote and Jordan Paulno, two individuals from different walks of life, found love in the most unexpected place: a dating app called Hinge. Morgan, a voice and music teacher, singer-songwriter, and professional vocalist based in Kansas City, swiped right on Jordan’s profile because of his stance on dating to marry. This resonated with her deeply.
Jordan, a feed operator at Purina Mills in St. Joseph, Missouri, had recently sold his house in Savannah, MO, and was living with his parents until their wedding. Morgan, on the other hand, was living with her parents in Lansing, KS. The two embarked on their first date on December 8th, 2022, in Weston, Missouri. As Morgan stood outside Weston Café waiting for Jordan, he saw her and instantly knew there was something special about her. They spent that morning walking around Weston in the cold, exploring charming Christmas shops, and falling in love like characters in a Hallmark movie.
Their love story blossomed despite the miles between them. Morgan attended Kansas State University, studying Vocal Performance, while Jordan went to Hillyard Technical Center in St. Joseph, Missouri. Their differing backgrounds and lifestyles didn’t hinder their connection; instead, it strengthened their bond. Jordan’s family hails from DeKalb, MO, and both of his parents work in St. Joseph. Meanwhile, Morgan’s parents are physicians, with her father running a private practice in Lansing and her mother recently retired.
As their relationship grew, Jordan’s introverted nature began to balance Morgan’s outgoing personality. They complemented each other perfectly, learning from each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Jordan’s love and kindness pursued Morgan relentlessly, proving to her that he was different from those in her past who had let her down.
The couple’s faith played a significant role in their journey. Morgan’s deep-rooted faith inspired Jordan, who had little exposure to religion before meeting her. Morgan invited him to church, where he found a new sense of purpose and eventually decided to follow Jesus. This shared faith brought them closer together and was an integral part of their wedding day.
Together, Morgan and Jordan overcame various challenges, from occupational shifts to mental health struggles, always supporting each other through life’s ups and downs. Their relationship’s foundation is built on understanding and commitment, which set it apart from their past experiences.
A deep love for the ocean and Florida lead them to tie the knot on the white sands of Pensacola Beach.
“My husband and I both grew up going to Florida on vacation. My grandma lived in Fort Walton Beach forever until just a few years ago, I went to Florida multiple times a year. So we both had a deep love for the ocean and the beach,” said Morgan.
“I found an Airbnb in Pensacola, that caused us to visit last January. The Airbnb did not work out, but we were staying right next-door to the Pensacola Beach Resort, I contacted them and their event coordinator at the time came in on her day off to show us the different spaces. We fell in love with the outdoor space, of course! We moved our wedding date and fell in love with the resort because of it classiness and beauty, it’s just lovely!”
Their wedding took place on October 12, 2024, at Pensacola Beach Resort, with a reception at the Salty Rose. The couple had a unique beach wedding with elements of a formal ceremony, featuring bright colors, a vintage car send-off, and around 90-110 guests. Their pastor, Kwan Porter, officiated the ceremony. The atmosphere was joyful and celebratory, with their closest friends and family witnessing their union.
The Pensacola Beach Resort was an exceptional wedding venue, combining breathtaking scenery, versatile event spaces, and convenient accommodations for the couple and their family. Couples can exchange vows on the pristine white sandy beach with the stunning Gulf of Mexico as the backdrop, creating a magical atmosphere. The resort offers a variety of event spaces, from intimate beach ceremonies to grand ballroom receptions, ensuring a perfect fit for any celebration.
Guests can enjoy luxurious suites with ocean views, making it easy for them to fully immerse themselves in the festivities. The resort’s exceptional service includes an in-house event coordinator who assists throughout the planning process, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable experience. Additional amenities, such as catering services and rental items, enhance the overall celebration, while nearby attractions, like dolphin tours, provide extra fun.
Morgan and Jordan share a love for the Midwest and dream of owning acreage and an old-style home one day. Their four cats—Drako, Snickers, Louie, and Luca—are a testament to their shared love for animals. Morgan, who wasn’t initially a cat person, was converted by Jordan’s two cats, and they adopted two more together.
Morgan and Jordan’s love story is one of perseverance, faith, and mutual growth. Their journey together has shown them the importance of showing up for each other every day and making each moment special. As they begin their new chapter as a married couple, they are confident that their love will continue to grow and flourish, just as it has since that cold December morning in Weston.
Vendors used for this wedding:
Venue:
The Pensacola Beach Resort
Photographer:
Name: Julia Bertram
Phone: 585-623-6331
Email: julianicolephotos@gmail.com
Videographer:
Name: Demetrius Zaferis (StoryLive Productions)
Phone: 850-53-1735
Email: dazaferis@gmail.com
DJ:
Name: Albert Lao (Southbay Event Group)
Phone: 850-938-3570
Email: al@southbayeventgroup.com
Florist:
Name: Fiore
Phone: 850-469-1930
Rentals:
Hemstitch:
Name: Megan Kozell
Phone: 850-602-1055
Email: events@hemstitchrentals.com
Chantina:
Name: Chantina
Supposey/Sexton’s Event Rental:
Name: Madison Sexton
Bride’s Ride:
Name: Donna Notoro
Phone: 850-316-0635
Email: abridesride@gmail.com
Wedding Planner/Coordinator:
Name: Lydia McHenry
